In its brilliant recreation of the Great Irish Famine, the children's historical novel Under the Hawthorn Tree is beloved by millions and is considered a classic. Now, the Number One Irish bestseller and award-winning author is turning her hand to the definitive adult novel of those hard times, with The Hungry Road. ****** Ireland's hopes for freedom are dashed with the arrival of a deadly potato blight that strikes terror in the heart of its people. 1845. Seamstress Mary Sullivan's dreams of a better future are shattered as she looks out over their ruined crop. Refusing to give in to despair, she must use every ounce of courage and strength to protect her family as they fight to survive. Dr Dan Donovan is Medical Officer to the Skibbereen Union. The arrival of 'The Hunger' soon brings starving men, women and children crowding into the town and the workhouse, desperate for assistance. Fr John Fitzpatrick's faith is tested by the suffering that surrounds him as his pleas for help fall on deaf ears. Inspired by true Irish heroes, The Hungry Road is the heartbreaking story of the Great Irish Famine told by one of Ireland's best loved writers. 'I thoroughly enjoyed this book, I raced through it ... It's a must-add to your collection' Ryan Tubridy, RT Radio 1 'Powerful ... Conlon-McKenna has assembled an excellent cast of characters ... Myriad small, moving details help to illustrate the enormity of the tragedy' Irish Independent 'It's a great read - it has the feeling of an epic film' Mairead Ronan, Today FM