In this episode, Emma Martin sits down with acclaimed author Maureen Cullen to explore the art of short fiction and discuss her upcoming release, Havoc Shore — a powerful new collection of short stories that delve into themes of community and resilience, with plenty of humour and wit. We discuss what draws Maureen Cullen to the short story form, the inspirations behind her latest work, and what readers can expect from the collection. Whether you're a longtime fan or discovering her voice for the first time, this conversation offers an intimate look at the writing process and the value of short fiction. Havoc Shore is available for pre-order now from the Ringwood Publishing website, and will be launching June 2025!

About The Book:

Spanning generations, Havoc Shore captures the voices of a shipbuilding town through its years of industry, struggle, and change. From 1954 to the present day, these 21 interwoven stories follow families bound by place, hardship, and resilience – navigating the tides of economic uncertainty, social upheaval, and personal triumph.

The McLean siblings each carry their own version of a life-altering event, revealing the fractures and fierce loyalties within a working-class family.

Isa McMenamin, mother of seven, stands her ground against bureaucracy, proving that sheer determination can shift the course of a community.

Dolly Deighan, daughter of an Italian immigrant once branded an outsider, stakes her claim to a future she never thought possible.

Throughout, neighbours, friends, and rivals cross paths in moments of humour, heartbreak, and quiet defiance.

Told in the Scots dialect of its people, Havoc Shore is a richly textured portrait of a community shaped by poverty, emigration, and survival. Against the backdrop of shifting politics and changing times, these are stories of love and loss, resilience and resistance — from voices that demand to be heard.