The Dead Republic
This book is the last of a trilogy spanning Ireland’s political history in the 20th century, about a fictional character called Henry Smart, an IRA hit-man. This story opens in 1951 and Henry is returning to Ireland nearly thirty years after his escape to the USA. Considering himself one of the many casualties of the perennial war between the oppressed Irish against an unwanted regime, his previous IRA reputation pitches him once more back amidst the republicans and the political wrangling and dangers leading up to and within the peace process.
I had not read the previous two books: had I done so my grasp and understanding of the intricacies of Henry’s background and IRA involvement in a story line probably created primarily for an American readership, would have been of interest. If Irish political history appeals, read the trilogy in its correct sequence. This book is not an easy read on its own.
