Richard Cardiff

I like how Tom gave us a deep understanding of Simon Byrne as well as James (Deaf) Burke with insight into each man's childhood which molded their character and willingness to fight in what was a brutal time for boxing (barefist period). I like how Tom wove Jem Ward into the picture showing us how Jem and James were two men who played an important role in Simon's short-lived life. The book held my interest and i appreciated how Tom would describe each fight round by round which made me feel like i was actually present at that fight. I found myself feeling sorry for both the combatants (Simon and James) which is a testament to Tom's writing skill. Tom did a good job of bringing us into the combatants lives as well as the period of time of barefisted fighting. A book well worth reading.