By Morgan Llywelyn
This book is amazing. I love everything about it. I love that it is a kind of historical fiction book. I love that it is about Ireland and Irish history. I love each and every character Llywelyn created. 1916 is completely engulfing. The world is so vivid and electric.
If you have no interest in Ireland or Irish history, do not even open the book. It is all about the political and cultural climate of Ireland during one of the most tumultuous and infamous times in Ireland's history. Llywelyn does an incredible job of making this book historically accurate and informative without being tedious. The reader doesn't get bogged down with names and dates. Instead Llywelyn weaves an expansive yet very personal story within the fabric of the political changes.
However, I will say the novel does become convoluted when the Rising is in full swing, but, as frustrating as it may be will all the names and places and action, that sense of frustration and confusion mirrors that of the characters. There was not truly reliable communication, no one knew for sure what was happening until the action involved themselves.
Llywelyn does a good job of making the book somewhat impartial. Obviously the reader is put on the side of Ireland. But she presents all sides of the conflict, causing the reader to question each party's actions, motives and consequences.
Ned and Henry are extremely strong characters, full of conviction and fire. Sile is wonderful in her own strength. And Precious will just break your heart. I really enjoy that Llwelyn combines characters of her own creation with historical figures.
This is truly a remarkable book, and I cannot wait to read the rest.
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