Stepping back in time to the early 1900's to experience the start of a revolution for the people, and by the people, of a country proud of their culture, but with a history steeped in their blood. Okay, that sounded a bit on the morbid side, but I digress...you're about to go behind the lines of a rebellion that was forged in the hearts and minds of those that loved their country and their people...and merely wanted to be under their own rule. You'll see the typical case of the enemy of my enemy being my ally...but only just. You'll meet people that you'll want to call family, friend, and some you won't want to call on at all. You'll see things brought to life by the author's pen that will really pull you in...and find yourself unable to let go until the final page is turned. Ladies and gents, I bring you today's Rachel's Random Resources guest and ebook of choice...
The Girl with the Emerald Flag
by
Kathleen McGurl
About the book...
A country rebelling...
It’s 1916 and, as war rages in Europe, Gráinne leaves her job in a department store to join Countess Markiewicz’s revolutionary efforts. It is a decision which will change her life forever. A rebellion is brewing, and as Dublin’s streets become a battleground, Gráinne soon discovers the personal cost of fighting for what you believe in...
A forgotten sacrifice...
Decades on, student Nicky is recovering from a break-up when a research project leads her to her great-grandmother’s experiences in revolutionary Ireland. When Nicky finds a long-forgotten handkerchief amongst her great-grandmother’s things, it leads to the revelation of a heartbreaking story of tragedy and courage, and those who sacrificed everything for their country.
Inspired by a heartbreaking true story, this emotional historical novel will sweep you away to the Emerald Isle. Perfect for fans of Jean Grainger, Sandy Taylor and Fiona Valpy.
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This is an author who has progressively made their way onto my MUST READ list. Thus far, I've tried three of her works, including this one, and I have yet to be disappointed. What I have been is TRANSPORTED, TRANSFORMED, and utterly BLOWN AWAY by the story, characters, history, and emotive power within each book. Her writing sets the scene with you in it. You ARE the lead character, whether that be Grainne back in 1916, or Nicky in 1998. You experience the heartache, hardships, and sacrifices made in the name of the cause. You see the connections made, friendships broken, and hearts stitched together by shared experiences and events they won't soon forget. You get the chance to go behind the headlines to the heart of the event, and, just as Nicky is discovering her roots, and how her heart beats as true as any in her family line, you get a glimpse of what life would have been like under the gun, on the wire, with every moment counting just as much as a day, and just how much life can change on a dime.
It was wonderful getting to know Nicky, and though I questioned her choices some times, it's just her youth showing, and everyone deserves to make their own memories, for better or worse. It was inspiring to step behind the eyes of Graiine as both a young woman fighting the good fight, and as a great grandmother sharing her life and times with those she holds dear...especially when at some points in her life, she never knew if tomorrow would come. It's a time period I've read about before, but never from these shores, this perspective, this culture, and it was as enjoyable as it was enlightening. If you're a Historical Fiction fan that loves a good story filled with heart, this is definitely a book, nay an author, I'd recommend.
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About the author...
Kathleen McGurl lives near the coast in Christchurch, England. She writes dual timeline novels in which a historical mystery is uncovered and resolved in the present day. She is married to an Irishman and has two adult sons. She enjoys travelling, especially in her motorhome around Europe but home is Mudeford, where this novel is set.
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Special thanks to Rachel at Rachel's Random Resources for the chance to bring this tour to you as well as the ebook for review. (THANKS!) For more information on this title, the author, this promotion, or those on the horizon, feel free to click through the links provided above. Be sure to check out the rest of tour for more bookish fun!
Until next time, remember...if it looks good, READ IT!
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