Newry author Matthew O'Hare launches debut novel Roses of the Crimson City

AUTHOR Matthew O’Hare has celebrated the release of his debut novel, Roses of the Crimson City, at the Bookshelf store Newry.

The launch marks an exciting milestone for both the local literary scene and the author, who has been writing stories for as long as he can remember.

Speaking about the release, O’Hare described feeling “a battle between nerves and excitement,” but above all, immense pride at finally sharing his work with the public.

“I’ve been writing all my life for fun, but this is the first book I’ve ever published said Matthew”

“My family read it first and encouraged me to publish it, they gave me the push I needed to put it out into the big, bad world.”

The book, a dark fantasy set in a vampire-ruled dystopian future, follows a powerful vampire commander who begins to question his loyalty to the tyrannical Elders controlling humanity.

As he joins forces with a group of human rebels, he’s forced to confront both his masters and the monster within.

Blending action, rebellion, romance, and emotional depth, Roses of the Crimson City explores themes of loyalty, humanity, and redemption.

“It’s not just about one character,” O’Hare said. “It’s about a group of people who become like family each fighting their own battles and trauma.”

Readers have praised the novel for its immersive world-building and layered characters, and O’Hare has already begun work on book two of a planned four-part series.

Readers met with the author at The Bookshelf for the release on Thursday were O'Hare signed copies with the book being available for purchase from the store.