When Louise Kennedy’s debut novel Trespasses came out in 2022 I devoured it in heady gulps. The tension-filled and emotionally alive story set in 1970s Belfast went on to be nominated for the Women’s Prize for Fiction. 

At the centre is Cushla, who embarks on an ill-advised relationship with barrister Michael against the backdrop of The Troubles and some complex and difficult families. And it’s just been announced that the book will be turned into a new Channel 4 drama starring Gillian Anderson. 

I’m thrilled about the news. Here’s what we know about it so far… 

What is Trespasses about? 

This book is about both The Troubles in Northern Ireland in the 7os and an evocative and intimate look at love and family. 

At the centre is Cushla, a teacher who also works in her family’s pub. One unremarkable day, a barrister, Michael, comes in for a drink and everything changes – their connection is evident. They begin a passionate affair even though Cushla is Catholic and Michael is both married and a Protestant. Meanwhile, violence and division rage on. 

“In a place where loose lips cost lives and danger lurks in the shadows, amidst the fear and paranoia, this illicit affair between Cushla and Michael ignites and burns bright,” reads the Channel 4 synopsis.

Who stars in Trespasses? 

Belfast-born Lola Petticrew (Bloodlands) will take the lead as Cushla while Tom Cullen (The Gold) will play her barrister lover Michael.

Anderson, meanwhile, will play Cushla’s troubled mum, Gina, a “glorious wreck”. Anderson has fallen for Gina as hard as I did, saying: “I fell in love with Louise’s stunning book when I read it in proof. I was immediately drawn to the tragi-comic creation that is Gina and couldn’t resist when Louise asked me to play her. I’m delighted to be part of the Trespasses family.”

When and where can I watch Trespasses? 

We don’t yet know when the four-part series will come to Channel 4, but while you wait, I highly recommend reading the book yourself. And there are plenty of other great dramas to get invested in here.

Images: Channel 4; Bloomsbury