What Becomes of Us - Softcover

A thoughtful, poignant and insightful novel ... there's a hint of Binchy in McKervey's ability to tell a complex, entertaining story with intelligence and wit - Irish Times A beautifully written account of a time when women, still subjugated, were determined to fight for their rights. It's also a story of friendship, neighbourliness, what family really means, and where it can be found ... All of the characters are superbly drawn - Irish Examiner An impressive debut ... There is plenty to admire and contemplate in this enjoyable portrait of Ireland's many-layered past - Sunday Business Post An assured debut - RTE Guide A timely debut ... [What Becomes of Us] features strong women, is culturally topical and it explores a fascinating era for women's lives both in the past and the novel's present - Image Mag A fascinating read that deals with big questions about female activism and solidarity ... McKervey's lean writing, light historical touch and engaging narrative never falter, and this impressive debut marks the writer out as a talent able to tell a complex story with intelligence and humour - Sunday Times Engaging ... This is an atmospheric debut and the writing is crisp - Sunday Independent

When Maria Mills flees London with only a suitcase and her young daughter, she is intent on a new life. To hide from her past, she has carefully constructed a story based on a lie even her child believes is true. It is 1965 and Dublin is a city on the cusp of change. As the country prepares to commemorate the 1916 Rising, Maria meets Tess McDermott, a former member of Cumann na mBan. Tess saw active service during the Rising and Maria soon realises that she, too, is closely guarding a secret. Set against the backdrop of stifling social mores alongside a defiant new wave of women's liberation, What Becomes of Us is a beautifully told story of the delicate balance between risk and survival, of nationhood and of the struggle to carve out a new identity when the past refuses to let go.