1916: A Novel of the Irish Rebellion (Irish Century) - Softcover

"Irish novelist and historian Llywelyn provides a fascinating account of the doomed 1916 Easter Rebellion. As fictional characters plot and fight alongside actual historical figures, the reader is swept up in both the glory and the tragedy of the doomed battle for Irish independence. . . . First-rate historical fiction that will appeal to anyone with an interest in Ireland's tragic past." --Booklist "A great, rousing tale of rebellion, love and intrigue. . . . Llywelyn's skill in bringing characters alive is her hallmark. Some strut, others lust, fear, die. . . or survive. Yet they all have a keen vibrancy that makes the Rising a reality for today's readers. Llywelyn's deft pen is a creative sword." --The Irish American Post I "The task of transforming the events of the 1916 Irish Rebellion into coherent fiction would terrify most writers. Llywelyn, however, has produced a thunderous, informative read that rises to the challenge. . . . Battle scenes are both accurate and compelling. The betrayals, slaughters and passions of the day are all splendidly depicted as Llywelyn delivers a blow-by-blow account of the rebellion and its immediate aftermath. The novel's abundant footnotes should satisfy history buffs; its easy, gripping style will enthrall casual readers with what is Llywelyn's best work yet." --Publishers Weekly (starred review) "Llywelyn is an effective re-evocator of the past, and in this book she has succeeded in capturing and vivifying one of the most critical moments in Ireland's troubled history. Her story, which blends fact with fancy, has moments of great poignancy; and throughout it is pervaded by a delicately rendered sadness. The book opens slowly, almost lumberingly, but gradually, as with something seen through rippling water, the materials of artistry become fluid, the figures depicted come alive." --The Library Journal "Llywelyn tells her tale with gusto and a respect for the facts; a good deal of both bizarre and somber history shines through the fictional fustian of its likable characters." --Kirkus Reviews

At age fifteen, Ned Halloran lost both of his parents and almost his own life when the Titanic sank. Determined to keep what little he has, he returns to his homeland of Ireland and enrolls at Saint Edna's school in Dublin. Saint Edna's headmaster is the renowned scholar and poet, Patrick Pearse who is soon to gain greater fame as a rebel and patriot. Ned becomes deeply involved with the growing revolution and the sacrifices it will demand. Through Ned's eyes, 1916 examines the Irish fight for freedom. Inspired by poets and school teachers, fueled by a desperate desire for independence, and played out in the historic streets of Dublin against the background of World War I. It is a story of the brave men and heroic women who, for a few unforgettable days, managed to holdout against the might of the British Empire.