Ireland’s youngest published novelist Isabella Coughlan celebrated in Derry for literary success

The Mayor of Derry City and Strabane District Council hosted a special civic reception to celebrate young author Isabella Coughlan following the launch of her new book Original Sin.

The talented Year 11 student from Castlederg, now Ireland’s youngest published novelist, has penned a suspenseful thriller set in a real estate agency operating between Dublin and Spain. Early reviews praise Original Sin as “a gripping novel that blends compelling storytelling with moral complexity and richly layered characters.”

Mayor of DCSDC, Cllr Ruairí McHugh, said he was delighted to welcome Isabella to the Parlour and recognise her remarkable achievement at such a young age. He said: “Isabella’s talent, creativity, and determination are truly inspiring. To become Ireland’s youngest published novelist is an incredible accomplishment, and we are immensely proud to celebrate her success here in the district. I’ve no doubt this is only the beginning of a very bright future.”

PICTURED ABOVE: 'ORIGINAL SIN'. . . . .The Mayor of Derry City and Strabane District Council, Ruairi McHugh pictured with student author Isabella Coughlan and her new book 'Original Sin' during a visit to the Guildhall on Tuesday evening. The talented Year 11 student, hails from Castlederg and the book is described as ‘A powerful and thought-provoking read, best suited for ages 14–18. It's a contemporary mystery thriller with psychological and romantic elements.'.  (Photo: Jim McCafferty Photography)