There has been a large number of books about Northern Ireland published in recent years, inspired, one would have to think by recent events and political movements both north and south of the border. This is an engaging, excellently written and overall thought provoking addition to the grouping, and the narrator suited the task excellently.

An interesting and detailed personal recount of the Troubles based on the experiences of Martin Doyle in his local parish. I was initially drawn to this as it is set within a few miles of my own town. I loved all the local details, and it has clearly been well researched. The personal touches made this recount full of heart. He gives a balanced account of people from both Catholic and Protestant backgrounds and highlights how the violence is senseless from all sides. The trauma is far-reaching, and the loss of talented people like the murdered journalist and writer Lyra McKee have robbed our country of its future. This audiobook is an intriguing and sensitively narrated history. #dirtylinen #Martindoyle #netgalley #audiobook #wfh

Given the subject matter of this title, it’s difficult to say I enjoyed this book. I’m not Irish or religious, but over some decades from the 1970’s onwards, watched and read news of the conflict in Northern Ireland with an increasing sense of despair. I found it difficult to understand how such hatred could exist and how so many innocent lives were being lost to the most appalling acts of violence, during peacetime in Britain.

Martin Doyle is a gifted writer; the narrative never fails and his experiences have brought a vivid life to what, at times, is very difficult text. I was mesmerised from the start. I had no idea that the divides went back as far as the mid 1600’s. Nor did I understand the part the linen industry played in communities already divided by religion. It was fascinating and an incredibly eloquent piece of social history. It’s clear that Mr Doyle is an individual of integrity in that he’s gained the trust of people who have previously been silent about events and what they knew. Using the setting of his small hometown, he’s brought local knowledge to play in a way that really hits home. The violence feels intimate and personal and I’m an outsider. The simmering threat is ever present and the freedoms we take for granted weren’t part of daily life in a country torn by bitterness, anger and hatred.

This is a searing account. It’s one I’d include on any curriculum because it’s balanced, honest and raises so many questions. I’ve learned so much from the insight provided and if you have any interest in social history, I’d urge you to read this book. A genuinely eye opening story and I’d love to read more by this writer. The narration throughout is excellent; well paced and delivered consistently. My sincere thanks for a review copy from the publisher via Netgalley.