Mayor hosts reception for young author Isabella Coughlan following the launch of her latest novel

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 Ruairí McHugh said he was delighted to welcome Isabella to the Mayor's 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.”