1972

A Novel of Ireland’s Unfinished Revolution (Irish Century Series, Book 4)

By: Morgan Llywelyn

Narrated by: Mil Nicholson

The Irish Century series is the narrative of the epic struggle of the Irish people for independence through the tumultuous 20th century.

In 1972, Morgan Llywelyn tells the story of Ireland from 1950-1972 as seen through the eyes of young Barry Halloran, son and grandson of Irish revolutionaries. Northern Ireland has become a running sore, poisoning life on both sides of the Irish border. Following family tradition, at 18, Barry joins the Irish Republican Army to help complete what he sees as "the unfinished revolution".

But things are no longer as clear cut as they once were. His first experience of violence in Northern Ireland shocks and disturbs him. Yet he has found a sense of family in the army which is hard to give up. He makes a partial break by becoming a photographer, visually documenting events in the north rather than physically taking part in them. An unhappy early love affair is followed by a tempestuous relationship with Barbara Kavanagh, a professional singer from America. Events lead Barry into a totally different life from the one he expected, yet his allegiance to the ideal of a 32 county Irish republic remains undimmed as the problems, and the violence, of Northern Ireland escalate. Then Barry finds himself in the middle of the most horrific event of all: Bloody Sunday in Derry, 1972.

©2005 Morgan Llywelyn (P)2021 Tantor

In Our Essence

This book in Llewelyn’s series of historical fiction is again well laid out and masterfully narrated. The characters come alive with full feeling.
Storybook endings of happily ever after are seldom realized in real life. That is often reflected in this series which is both heartbreaking and engrossing.

Superb in Every Aspect

Am nearing completion of the series with only 1999 remaining. Captivatingly tragic. Well researched. Compelling character development and writing.

Amazing

This series is incredible. I have learned so much about my Irish History. Tragic, yet inspiring..

Great historical novel about Ireland.

I have now enjoyed 4 of the five historical novels in Lywellyn’s Century series. Very informative about Irish history with involving storytelling.