Ian Alexander

A compelling read. The author takes on the task of delving into a totalitarian regime and its impact on one family. That it is set in Ireland reflects on the ongoing troubles there and the way in which they have torn sone families apart. The way in which the mother’s role in the turmoil is brilliantly depicted. She too is torn between a desperate desire to keep a large family together and her own internal psyche that seeks escape. This is highlighted in latter chapters which provide a few surprises and a feeling that At least some of the conflicts can be or have been resolved