Teresa Godfrey's 'Wipe Out' officially launched in Enniskillen

'Wipe Out’ is a dystopian novel taking place in the future after the world has been wiped out following a pandemic. However, the Covid-19 pandemic did not play a role in the conception of this novel, as the seeds for it were sewn a few years ago when Teresa’s writing group suggested she expand her short story into a novel.

Launched in February 2022, 'Wipe Out' has since been receiving great praise, with one reviewer on Amazon describing it as "a novel for our time that sits with Margaret Atwood's 'The Handmaid's Tale'". 

The official launch of 'Wipe Out' in Enniskillen was a social affair with those in attendance enjoying the opportunity to chat with the author who was also available to provide personal book signings.

Music performed beautifully by pianist Jonathan Beatty provided a warm atmosphere as those in attendance enjoyed a glass of wine and delectable canapes provided by 28 At The Hollow.

Author Teresa Godfrey with her books at the launch in 28 of the Hollow.

This feeling of warmth was accentuated with humour as poet Trish Bennett brought a comedic angle to her role of MC, having those in attendance in fits of laughter as she gave hilarious introductions. Later, she recited a number of her own amusing poems, unwittingly selecting Irvinestown hotelier and 'singer' Joe Mahon from the crowd as her glamorous assistant. She was advised not to give him a microphone.

Teresa's fellow writer and friend Chris Campbell also read one of her own stories on the night, a charming tale of the first red phone box appearing on The Diamond in Enniskillen, and her experience as a wide-eyed child answering a very special phone call from it.

READ MORE: Fermanagh based writer Teresa launches new Sci-Fi novel

Next up was the author herself.

An introduction from Trish acknowledged how as a writer of poetry, short stories, novels and screenplays, Teresa's work has been published in Ireland, the UK and the USA.

Her body of work includes five feature film scripts on commission and she also has had two children's dramas broadcast on Channel 4 television, was shortlisted for The Orange Pathe Award and The Miramax Award and one of her scripts won the European Union New Talent Award. Her debut novel, 'Wipe Out', was released by Roswell Press and her poetry collection, 'This, Also, Is Mercy', was published by Summer Palace Press in April 2021.

Taking to the microphone, Teresa read a short extract from 'Wipe Out', which, with her captivating and descriptive storytelling, left those listening craving for more.

She concluded the event by reading a poignant poem from her poetry collection.

Speaking following the book launch, which was sponsored by Daniel Anthony Hairdressing Enniskillen and Anne Monaghan's Well Worth It Yoga and Holistic Therapies,Teresa thanked all those who attended, travelling from near and far to make it "such a special event".

She added: "A big thank you to Zara, Glen, and staff at 28 At The Hollow, Enniskillen for providing the perfect venue and service. The wine and canapes were excellent."

She went on to thank Christina Campbell for taking charge of the bookselling and for doing a very entertaining reading during the event, and musician Jonathan Beatty who played on the night, creating a beautiful ambiance.

"The effervescent and ever-wonderful Trish Bennett was the best MC anyone could wish for. She pulled it all together like a pro," said Teresa.

"Very special and sincere thanks are due to Daniel Anthony Hairdressing Enniskillen and Anne Monaghan's Well Worth It Yoga and Holistic Therapies for sponsoring the whole event," she added.