The Last Death Poet

Ancient mythological forces stir to challenge the repressed trauma of troubled Belfast in this theatrical, symbolic, atmospheric and nuanced tour de force of a YA debut novel. It takes a rare talent to view conflicted history through the lens of dark Irish mythology framing a realistic coming out narrative where a teen struggles with expressing their identity in a world where everyone is hiding a secret and lies mask truths. Fuelled by support from his writing mentor Melinda Salisbury of the Write Mentor scheme, Belfast born actor, photographer and producer Stephen Daly was inspired during Lockdown to craft an urban fantasy storyscape that beguiles the reader from the start.

With short staccato sentences building up tension the plot seeks to intrigue as 17-year-old Michael is plagued by cawing crows and painful, recurring visions on a visit to the city where his parents grew up. There is a real sense of place as events play out against the dramatic backdrop of Black Mountain and the streets of West Belfast. Belfast’s tragic past becomes superimposed over a riotous present creating a surreal effect like a double exposure. Daly writes with sensitivity, vulnerability, humour and heart as Michael is caught up in a complex web of family dynamics and relationships whilst investigating his melancholic photojournalist father’s mysterious disappearance. His forthright new friend Meg is keen to help him understand what is happening to him whilst his magnetic grandmother seems reluctant to provide him with answers.

Daly explores the landscape of Belfast’s turbulent memories and reflects images of war, death, destruction, fear and loss through the eyes of Michael. The bewildered and frustrated adolescent confronts terrifying therianthropic supernatural forces, who desire him to fulfil his dangerous destiny, whilst also struggling with heartache.

The Last Death Poet will appeal to teens looking for exciting and positive queer fantasy. The book has an eerie and edgy vibe suffused with gothic imagery and photographic language. With scenes reminiscent of the 90’s movie The Craft and Hitchcock’s The Birds it is a deft blend of horror and humanity. Shining a spotlight on the tumultuous history of a proud city, it is both profound and compelling. A must for fans of Celtic mythology, this multi layered novel holds up a view finder to sexuality, identity, inter-generational conflict and resilience.