The Scarlet Ribbon

A tale of love, death, and medicine in 18th century Dublin

The Scarlet Ribbon follows James Quinn, a young Irish surgeon battling prejudice, suspicion, and personal demons in his controversial quest to change the face of medicine. Following his marriage, tragedy strikes, thrusting James into a life of turmoil and despair. Throwing himself into his work, the young surgeon eventually begins to find solace in the most unexpected of places. From the backstreets of Paris, through the glittering social whirl of London, and finally back to Ireland again, this is a story of the thorns of love and the harsh reality of life in the 18th century, where nothing is simple and complications of all kinds surround James Quinn, man midwife.

Derry O'Dowd is the pen name for the writing team of Katy O'Dowd and her father Michael O'Dowd. Katy is a journalist and editor who has written for newspapers, magazines, and online for more than 15 years, including Time Out, Associated Newspapers, Comic Relief, and the Times. Michael is chair of the Institute of Obstetrics and Gynaecology in Ireland.