A Story of The Bodkin Murders

Book excerpt: Ten people are murdered in an inheritance-motivated feud at the Bodkin residence in 1741. Following the killings, John Bodkin becomes heir to that estate in Galway. He is now free to marry Catherine Bermingham, the gorgeous daughter of Lord Athenry. But their plans are clouded by the ensuing trial in which John’s cousin, Shawn Bodkin, is one of those convicted. In a statement from the gallows, Shawn accuses John of fratricide in an earlier conflict. Instead of protesting his innocence, John goes on the run only to be apprehended by the army. At his trial, John refuses to plead either guilty or not guilty to the murder of his brother Patrick. Only Catherine knows why. She is the keeper of a dark secret, which John insists must remain hidden, even if it costs him his freedom or his life. Based on real events, A Story of the Bodkin Murders explores a fascinating tale of treachery, greed and romance in 18th century Ireland.