Who is Louise MacKenna?

Gothic Literature Themes: Women in Distress.

In Redwood, my lady in distress is most certainly Louise MacKenna. Having been “rescued” by James from a life of prostitution, she finds herself whisked away to the mysterious Redwood Manor Vineyard where the walls whisper and where she will find herself battling to protect her most precious of all possessions - her son, Dara. It is upon James’ death however that Louise emerges as a strong and determined woman focused on rehabilitating Redwood to ensure her son has a legacy. Is she tormented all the days of her life for the secret she keeps? Does she struggle to make amends to God and pray for forgiveness? Yes. Whilst she is in distress throughout much of Redwood, I like to think of Louise as the kind of character that necessitates the readers’ empathy.