An Taobh Dorcha

About the Book: 

Set in the stunning landscape of Loch Broom during the late 1800s, An Taobh Dorcha immerses readers in a world of hardship, power and humanity. This compelling Gaelic historical fiction follows two newcomers: Gibson, who arrives from Glasgow seeking his roots, and Donald, who assumes the identity of a murdered minister after committing a heinous crime. Their arrival disrupts the quiet community, where the kindness of locals masks an undercurrent of tension. As the story unfolds, the stark contrasts between Both men, whilst different in their morals, are at pivotal crossroads, and their impulsive actions lead to tragic consequences.

Charity’s narrative captures the harsh realities faced by crofters under oppressive landlords and an unsympathetic clergy while celebrating the resilience of ordinary people. With lyrical prose, the author transports readers to enchanting moors and lochside, where beauty contrasts with struggle. An Taobh Dorcha is a poignant reflection on the human spirit, making it a must-read for those captivated by the complexities of life in a bygone era.

About the Author:

SEONAIDH CHARITY is a dedicated Gaelic secondary teacher based in Inverness, where he passionately teaches Gaelic as a language to both GME pupils and learners, as well as delivering subjects through the medium of Gaelic. A former GME pupil himself, Seonaidh pursued his love for the language at Glasgow University before earning a Postgraduate Diploma in Education (PGDE) from Strathclyde University.

His teaching journey took him to Edinburgh, where he served as a classroom teacher and Curriculum Leader. Seonaidh has also contributed significantly to teacher education, having held positions as Programme Leader and Senior Lecturer in Sabhal Mòr Ostaig’s BA Gaelic and Education degree and UHI’s PGDE courses.

Seonaidh's commitment to educational excellence is underscored by his academic achievements, including a Master of Education (MEd) in Critical Enquiry with Distinction from UHI. His research focused on enhancing speaking skills among GME pupils, reflecting his dedication to fostering effective language acquisition and cultural preservation.