<p>The Irish Catholic Church is crumbling. To some this is devastating. For others, inevitable. The clerical abuse scandals of the &lsquo;90s, sparked this irreparable demise which continues to disintegrate at an alarming rate.</p><p>Written by Declan Henry - who still has an affinity for the Catholic Church, the religion of his Irish upbringing - his latest book looks in-depth at key aspects affecting its demise today and investigates the secret undercurrents of homophobia, hypocrisy and intolerance. <em>Forbidden Fruit </em>is the culmination of Henry&rsquo;s extensive research and interviews with thirty Catholic priests &ndash; some who requested anonymity and others who were comfortable to be identified. The result is hard-hitting, controversial and disturbing. Confession takes on a new meaning for the Catholic priests&rsquo; revelations of their innermost thoughts, emotions, hopes, fears and beliefs.</p><p>Pulling no punches, this book exposes the hypocrisy of gay priests in the Catholic Church and the damage their internal homophobia wreaks on gay men in particular, the church&rsquo;s damning attitude towards the LGBT community and the aftermath of the scandals, as well as presenting a compelling insight into Ireland, a country once embedded in Catholicism which is quickly becoming one of the most politically progressive countries of the world.</p><p><em>Forbidden Fruit </em>also presents a current and real discussion on young people. Does the church envisage a strong and solid future with the next generation of church-goers? Will it embrace their energy, fresh outlook and plethora of opinions on all kinds of intelligent subjects or just revert to default position; manipulation, power and secrets?</p><p>After reading this book you will have much to consider about the Irish Catholic Church, the position of faith in a contemporary society, and the Catholic priest&rsquo;s role in today&rsquo;s fast-changing world. Whether you are religious, have a strong Catholic faith, or are simply fascinated by the intricacies of a crumbling empire, you will find much to glean in this provocative read.</p><p>Declan Henry, an Irish Catholic, comes from a distinguished academic background. He studied at two of London&rsquo;s elite universities &ndash; Goldsmiths College and King&rsquo;s College. He holds a Bachelor of Arts degree (Honours) in Education and Community Studies and a Master of Science degree in Mental Health Social Work. He is also a registered social worker. Declan is the author of six other books and numerous published articles. He has written on a wide range of diverse topics including a book on bipolar disorder, ADHD, transgender people, Islam, young offenders and a book about growing up in Ireland.</p><p>&nbsp;</p>