"engaging historical novel"

During World War I in Ireland, Sylvie and Gowry McCulloch know their marriage is not the best, but both cherish their beloved daughter, Maeve though not each other. Gunrunner Francis Hagarty comes to town and excites Sylvie with his passion. Gowry discovers a cache of guns hidden in the shamrock, but though angry is not sure what to do about it. Even worse his wife is having an affair with the smuggler of the weapons.

Unable to cope with his life's collapse, Gowry joins the fight on the continent. However, trench warfare in France is not an improvement. On the other hand back in Ireland, Sylvie is trapped in the Easter Uprising. In their separate hellholes, both know it will prove impossible to return to the lackluster life they once shared.

SHAMROCK GREEN is an engaging historical novel that brings to life the turmoil of a world gone mad. Though the book starts extremely slow setting up the key characters and the background, once in gear it shifts into a lively period piece. Fans of World war I dramas will appreciate this deep look at the times. One should watch the PBS video The Twentieth Century as the one on this era is frightening, fascinating and unforgettable.

Harriet Klausner

Reviewed by Harriet Klausner
Posted July 29, 2003