Search results for ""the mercier press""

''Coakley delivers another hard-hitting assured thriller'' Catherine KirwanFresh from solving a harrowing abduction case linked to drug gangs in Kerry, Detective Tim Collins returns to Cork City, only to discover that lurking in the shadows of its fabled lanes lies a world he''s unprepared for.A series of harrowing crimesneglected by the very police force sworn to protecthas the city''s most vulnerable people on edge.As Collins digs deeper, the line between justice and revenge blurs. Trust becomes a luxury he can''t afford as allies become adversaries and the truth slips further away. The streets he once knew now hold secrets that challenge everything he knows, forcing him to confront the demons of his haunted pasta past rooted in his formative years at University College Corkmaking him question the nature of justice and the path he has chosen in its pursuit.As the story unfolds, Ti

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Killing at its Very Extreme takes the reader to the heart of Dublin from October 1917 to November 1920, effectively the first phase of Dublin's War of Independence. It details pivotal aspects at the outset, then the ramping up of the intelligence war, the upsurge in raids and assassinations. Vividly depicting mass hunger-strikes, general strikes, prison escapes, and ruthless executions by the full-time IRA ‘Squad’, amid curfews and the functioning of an audacious alternative government. Intensity builds as the reader is embedded into Commandant Dick McKee’s Dublin Brigade to witness relentless actions and ambushes. The authors' unprecedented access lays bare many myths about key players from both sides. The tempo escalates with deployment of the notorious Black and Tans and Auxiliaries, as well as a host of cunning political and propaganda ploys. Desperate plights and horrific reprisals are portrayed, the effects of mass sectarian pogroms and killings. Tthe sacking of Balbriggan, the killing of Seán Treacy, the death of Terence MacSwiney, and the capture and execution of teenager Kevin Barry. As in the authors' previous works the pulsating tension, elation, fear, desperation, hunger, the mercy and the enmity leap from the pages. The harrowing circumstances suffered by those whose sacrifices laid the bedrock for modern Ireland, and whose own words form the book’s primary sources, are recounted in unflinching detail.

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A new miniature series of Eddie Lenihan''s charming stories with fabulous illustrations by Alan Clarke. Counter display pack containing all three books will be available Price point makes them ideal for impulse purchase and tourist market Striking illustrations make them stand out from the competition When Eddie Lenihan''s Irish Tales of Mystery and Magic was first published in 2006, Alan Clarke''s quirky illustrations perfectly complemented Eddie''s take on the stories of Fionn Mac Cumhail and the Fianna. Unavailable for several years and much sought after, these beautifully illustrated stories will now be available in a collection of three gift editions. This edition contains the stories ''Fionn and the Mermaids'' and ''The Strange Case of Seán na Súl''. These tales of ancient Irish heroes and druids tell of strange and peculiar adventures when creatures of the night walked the earth and magic was

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Hot on the heels of Killing at its Very Extreme, Dublin: October 1917 – November 1920, Someone Has to Die for This, Dublin: November 1920 – July 1921 wrenches the reader into the final frenetic months of Dublin’s War of Independence, in uncompromising, unflinching, and unprecedented detail. The reader will follow in the footsteps of IRA assassination units on Bloody Sunday, witness the hellish conditions in Croke Park, taste the gripping tension that stalked the city as intelligence services battled it out over the winter, while equally clandestine peace feelers were set in play. The pressure ratchets up in 1921 as surging IRA Active Service Units take the fight to the Auxiliaries, police and military in Dublin. Swathes of the country erupt into violent attacks and barbarous reprisals. Killings escalate in daily ambushes. Prison escapes are vividly detailed, as are the Mountjoy hangings. Shuttle diplomacy intensifies as a settlement is desperately sought, but fault lines develop among the Republican leadership. Street-battles paralyse the city with civilians bearing a brutal burden; the IRA relentlessly presses on. The devastating Custom House attack precedes the war’s ferocious final weeks, culminating in a near bloodbath that almost scuppered the truce. Experience these breathtaking events through the eyes of their participants. This is an unforgettable story, its style providing long-overdue justice.

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The British government has taken steps to halt the prosecution of soldiers responsible for the deaths of civilians in Northern Ireland, most of whom had no connection to paramilitary activities. These killings were part of a ruthless dirty war that commenced in 1970 when Brigadier Frank Kitson, a counter-insurgency specialist, was sent to Northern Ireland. Kitson had spent decades in Britain’s colonies refining old, and developing new, techniques which he applied in Northern Ireland. He became the architect of a clandestine war, waged against Nationalists while ignoring Loyalist atrocities. Kitson and his colleagues were responsible for: • The establishment of the clandestine Military Reaction Force (MRF) which carried out assassinations on the streets of Belfast of suspected IRA members; • They unleashed the most violent elements of the Parachute Regiment [1 Para] to terrorise Nationalist communities which, they adjudged, were providing support for the Official and Provisional IRA; • Spreading black propaganda designed to undermine Republican but not Loyalist paramilitary groups; • Deployed psychological warfare techniques, involving the torture of internees; • Sent Kitson’s ‘Private Army’ – Support Company of 1 Para - to Derry where they perpetrated the Bloody Sunday massacre. The British Widgery and Saville inquiries did not hold Kitson and his elite troops accountable for Bloody Sunday. Kitson’s Irish War lays bare the evidence they discounted: Kitson’s role in the events leading up to and surrounding that massacre; evidence from a deserter from 1 Para who joined the IRA; a deceitful MI5 agent; a courageous whistle blower whom the British state tried to discredit, and much more, all of which points to a motive for the attack on the Bogside. This book unlocks the some of the key secrets of the Dirty War that the British government is still determined to cover-up.

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These are six brilliant and enthralling stories that, while making you both laugh and cry, also leave you desperate to know what happens next. A nineteenth-century Ireland is depicted; steeped in the supernatural, it's a place where both humans and fairies collide, both refusing to be defeated in their quest for the freedom to govern their own lives. We witness the friendship between Tipperary farmer Darby O’Gill and King Brian Connors of the Good People grow. These two, who first thought that the differences between them meant that they were forever mortal enemies, later realise that circumstances unite rather than divide them. The stories also celebrate the most powerful fairy of them all, the Banshee, who is not really the scary villain that people sometimes imagine, but rather a career-minded, kind-hearted messenger from the Otherworld. Brian McManus has made some changes to the original stories to present them to modern readers at their absolute best, while still remaining true to the spirit and intention of Herminie Templeton Kavanagh. These delightful tales of genuine Irish folklore, full of charm, wittiness, and poignancy, will appeal to children of all ages.

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The follow up to the critically acclaimed children's title The Book of Learning. • A magical story with an Irish setting for readers aged 9–12 years; appeals to both boys and girls. • The follow-up to the Dublin UNESCO City of Literature Citywide Read 2016: The Book of Learning. • An exciting fantasy adventure from the publishers of the Arthur Quinn series. In this exciting follow-up to the Dublin UNESCO City of Literature Citywide Read 2016, The Book of Learning, heroine Ebony Smart is settling into her role as guardian for the Order of Nine Lives. All seems quiet until she receives a peculiar silver box from an anonymous sender and is tasked with returning it to a mystery owner. Ebony discovers that Zach and Judge Ambrose have allied with a powerful ancient demon, and are more determined than ever to steal her soul and control the fate of the world. To defend the Order and defeat the demon, Ebony and her pet rat, Winston, must unravel the mystery of the silver box, free the trapped souls in the Reflectory and mount a daring rescue. Can she find the strength and courage needed to defeat the enemy, prove herself the rightful guardian and save all of their lives?

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'Big Maggie 'J. B. Keane's most outspoken play' - The Irish Press 'Keane ... has brought the tyranny, the desperation and the frustration of the rural Irish matriarch roaring into the top twenties' 'A full-blooded, salty, earthy play with a great ring of truth and uproarious with comedy' - The Irish Times 'His depth of perception reveals a mature Keane' - Cork Examiner The story of Big Maggie Polpin and her attempts to keep her family together after the death of her husband is an enduring theatre favourite. The dialogue crackles with hilarious, caustic putdowns as the indomitable Maggie deals with her feckless family and unwanted suitors. Everyone wants a part of Big Maggie and her property, but she has other ideas. John B. Keane's wonderful creation of a rural Irish matriarch ranks with Juno, Mommo and Molly Bloom as one of the great female creations of twentieth-century Irish literature.

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In this collection, Michael Lenihan delves into the rich tapestry of Cork's history to reveal some of its most bizarre events and strangest characters. From quack doctor Baron Spolasco, to the outlaw Airt O Laoghaire, Cork has seen some eccentric, wonderful and even some downright nasty people. With revelations of mass graves in Bishop Lucey Park, how Jonathan Swift was awarded the freedom of the city, stories of the Gas Works' strike and the trams of the city, "Hidden Cork" opens the door on history, dumps the boring bits and brings to life the flow of time through the streets of Cork.

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Bobby Sands was 27 years old when he died. He spent almost nine years of his life in prison because of his Irish republican activities. He died, in prison, on 5 May 1981, on the sixty-sixth day of his hunger strike at Long Kesh Prison, outside Belfast. This book documents a day in the life of Bobby Sands. It is a tale of human bravery, endurance and courage against a backdrop of suffering, terror and harassment. It will live on as a constant reminder of events that should never have happened – and hopefully will never happen again.

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During the Irish Civil War, events of late 1922 and early 1923 together with waves of ‘dishonourable’ killings created poisoned relations between Republicans and ‘Free Staters’ which would last for several generations. The most enduring of these controversies, a policy of summary executions carried out by the Provisional Government from November 1922, continues to surround the argument. This book offers a fresh perspective on the causes, development and consequences of the Irish Civil War. Triggered by the signing of the Anglo-Treaty, there were those that would accept nothing less than complete Irish independence. Very few IRA commanders active in the field supported the Treaty and, as happens often in the dissection of civil wars, controversy over the conduct of both sides figures heavily within the text, where, at a local and national level, it left bitter legacies. This book offers an overview of the war in all regions of Ireland.

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Inis Oírr is the smallest and most easterly of the Aran Islands situated at the mouth of Galway Bay, Ireland. Renowned for its captivating beauty, this unique book documents the island from the 1970s to the present day in stunning photographic form, offering an intimate look into aspects that make Inis Oírr such a treasured destination. As you turn the pages, you'll be transported to the enchanting world of Ireland's most visited off-shore island, where the past and present intertwine to create a truly unforgettable experience. 'Inis Oírr: The Jewel of the Aran Islands' is a tribute to the island's beauty and its resilience and spirit. The book is a celebration of both heritage and progress, from its warm-hearted people and rich history to its breathtaking landscape and vibrant cultural life. This visual anthology presents the island's stunning landscape, historical and archaeological sites, as well as the charm of everyday life. Fascinating images highlight the hardworking islanders and their visitors and showcase the diverse aspects of the island's economy and infrastructure, from traditional fishing to modern tourism. Discover the evolution of transportation on the island, from humble donkeys to electric vehicles, and immerse yourself in the rich cultural tapestry of Inis Oírr through its music, art, and sporting events. Special moments are captured in this exquisite photographic journey, providing a deep connection to the heart and soul of Inis Oírr. Let this photographic book be your guide as you explore the wonders of Inis Oírr and fall in love with this magical island.

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This tense crime novel, second in a series featuring former inter-county hurler now turned detective, Garda Tim Collins, finds a Cork city woman raped and murdered in her own home. Assigned to the case, Collins and new partner Deirdre Donnelly soon find out that there is a misogynistic apparatus, male dark forces at play with plans to attack and kill many more women. In a race against time and utter unacceptance of female degradation violence, Collins and Deirdre have to find the killer before he acts again. But can they? Donnelly and her competitive and previously famous sportsman partner hate to lose, but when one of Ireland’s most dangerous criminals turns up in Collins’ home turf, West Cork, old sparring partner Superintendent Buckley insists he move case. The West Cork investigation imploding and climaxing into a brutal killing, we quickly learn this utterly likeable detective cans sometimes be violent and ruthless. A respected professional, he is often perceived as a wild card amongst the Garda ranks. The witness of this murder in West Cork spurs him into battle. How far will he go to avenge that death? Will Collins become a killer, too? We are shown the dark realism of crime and the battles of will and intelligence that go on in the world policing. A strong sense of place combined with a shocking double climax makes this second installment of the Tim Collins series a thrilling read.

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In the early 1970s, Sir Maurice Oldfield of the British Secret Service, MI6, embarked upon a decade-long campaign to derail the political career of Charles Haughey. The English spymaster believed Haughey was a Provisional IRA godfather, therefore, a threat to Britain. Oldfield was assisted by unscrupulous British agents and by a shadowy group of conspirators inside the Irish state’s security apparatus, all sharing his distrust of Haughey. Escaping scrutiny for their actions until now, Enemy of the Crown examines more than a dozen instances of their activities. Oldfield was conspiratorial by nature and lacked a moral compass. Involved in regime change plots and torture in the Middle East, in the Republic of Ireland he engaged with convicted criminals as agent provocateurs as well as the exploitation of pedophile rings in Northern Ireland. He and his spies engaged in dirty tricks as they ran vicious smear campaigns in Ireland, Britain and the US. MI6 and IRD intrigues were deployed to impede Haughey's bid to secure a position on Fianna Fáil’s front bench and any return to respectability. London’s hateful drive against Haughey saw no let-up after Fianna Fáil’s triumphal return to power in 1977 which saw them win a large majority of seats in the Dáil. When Haughey sought a place at Cabinet, Oldfield and his spies devised more dirty tricks to impede him. While Haughey was suspicious of MI6 interference, he had no inkling of the full extent of London’s clandestine efforts to destroy him. By circulating lurid stories about him, they played a major part in trying to prevent him succeed Jack Lynch as Taoiseach in 1979. This book attempts to shed light on some of the anti-Haughey conspiracies which took place during the period of the late 1960s right through to the early 1980s.

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This wonderful publication provides a unique visual and historical record of the West Cork Railway as rail enthusiast and historian Chris Larkin warmly remembers the lifetime of the rail system in a travelogue which allows readers to hop onto a West Cork train and savour the journey of a bygone era. Highly illustrated with 188 images, while on board, you might even meet a celebrity! Fully illustrated throughout, material from Irish Railway Records is complemented by unique and rare images from private collections and the London Illustrated News. Photographs, vintage posters, postcards, colour slides, tickets, advertisements and images of railway paraphernalia fill the pages. West Cork Railways takes the reader time travelling from the famine right through to the rocking 1960s. Sit on a seat and be whisked from your West Cork home to villages and towns carrying along the dreams, needs and aspirations of bygone travellers. Observe railway life and the harmonious existence of dogs, cats, hens, ducks and geese at the level crossings. Railway enthusiasts will savour detailed accounts of railway stations, length of lines together with steam locomotives and wagons, while those interested in social history will enjoy accounts of halt-keeper’s houses and lists of people including those that worked on the Cork - Beara line. The railway brought much prosperity to the region; however, decades have passed since its 1961 demise and the rapid physical decay of the line. West Cork life continued, albeit in a different way. While today connectivity is measured in speed, this railway is fondly remembered for linking its people. Heartbreakingly, if it had held its ground for a further 12 years until EEC entry (1973), the railway right of way for future generations would have been preserved.

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Discover the Inspiring Story of a Revolutionary: Mick Ryan's memoir of growing up in Dublin's East Wall and his journey as former IRA Director of Operations. Explore his commitment to the cause, despite suffering, hardship, and disappointment in My Life in the IRA. Understand why these volunteers persisted against all odds, driven by a deep sense of obligation to the ideals of 1916. Immerse yourself in the journey of a man who saw his involvement as a calling, a way to give meaning to his life. Get a unique perspective on the Irish struggle for independence and be moved by this tale of bravery, conviction and regret.

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In 'An Island Christmas - Nollaig Oileánach', celebrated Irish author Micheál Ó Conghaile takes readers on a heartfelt journey through his childhood memories of Christmas on the now-abandoned island of Connemara's Inis Treabhair. 'An Island Christmas - Nollaig Oileánach' transcends the holiday season, weaving together tales of the simple joys of Christmas on the island with the broader tapestry of childhood memories, friendships, and the cherished personalities of the island community. Ó Conghaile reminisces about the unique traditions and customs of his island upbringing in the 1960s and 70s in this captivating memoir. Delving into the island's social history he paints a vivid picture of family life in an intimate portrait of island culture and a pre-electric era that will captivate readers of all ages. Though the island is no longer inhabited, Ó Conghaile's recollections serve as a poignant reminder of the enduring importance of family, community, and the magic of childhood. Whether you are a fan of Ó Conghaile's previous works or new to his writing, 'An Island Christmas - Nollaig Oileánach', offers a heartfelt and enchanting glimpse into a bygone era, making it a delightful read for any time of the year. An inspiring insight into the life of a passionate artist and powerhouse behind the resurgence of Irish language writing and publishing, witness Ó Conghaile's journey from an eager young boy tapping away on a typewriter to the founder of renowned publishing house Cló Iar-Chonnacht. Translated from the Irish by Mícheál Ó hAodha.

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‘These incredible photos show my home place of Cork in all its glory and bring back warm memories.’ - Ronan O' Gara, Irish former Rugby Union Player and current Coach, La Rochelle. 'Magic happens when a photographer loves and captures the subject matter so brilliantly that it evokes far deeper emotions.’ - Ross Lewis, Michelin star–awarded chef and co-owner of Chapter One Restaurant. ‘Dennis Horgan has nailed it with this amazing book, which not only shows where we are from, but who we are.’ - Donncha O’Callaghan, Broadcaster and former Munster, Ireland and British & Irish Lions Rugby Union player. ‘This is Cork - An Aerial Journey, showcases our beautiful city and county from a unique perspective, allowing us to experience a bird's-eye view of the streetscapes and countryside that surround us, and is a visual record of the continuing evolution of our man-made heritage.’ - Ann Doherty, CEO, Cork City Council. This mesmerizing photography book unveils brand-new images from a breathtaking journey through the heart and soul of Cork. From historic buildings, charming streetscapes, and bustling maritime and sporting life to the rugged coastal scenery, iconic lighthouses, and hidden gems of picturesque islands that make Cork truly unique, all captured through extraordinary aerial photography taken from heights of 1,000 to 5,000 feet. Exclusively photographed from a light aircraft the book features dramatic shots of Fastnet Rock and Baltimore Lifeboat. Enjoy breathtaking views from Cape Clear's peaceful shores to the rugged terrain of Dursey Island and the vibrant streets of Cork City. See the Irish Coast Guard R117 helicopter in action along with RNLI and land-based Coast Guard cliff rescue units, and gain a bird's eye view of Cork's farmlands and county towns. This book will take you on a journey through Cork that you'll never forget. This is Cork: An Aerial Journey is a perfect gift for anyone who loves aerial photography, and stunning landscapes, or simply wants to experience the beauty of Cork from a new perspective.

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‘A tale of arson, loot and murder’ was how one source described the events that would befall Cork city on the night of 11–12 December 1920. In a scene of almost unprecedented destruction, members of the British forces bent on revenge for the ambushes at Kilmichael and Dillon’s Cross set fire to both the commercial and the civic heart of the city. One side of Patrick Street and the area surrounding it were razed to the ground, while City Hall and the neighbouring Carnegie Library were gutted as Auxiliaries and Black and Tans shot at Cork’s firemen and cut their hoses in an effort to ensure maximum damage. Then, to add insult to injury, as the smoke cleared the British government tried to blame Cork’s own citizens for the devastation. Using eyewitness accounts and contemporary sources, and illustrated with exceptional images from the period, Cork Burning tells the story of the events before, during and after that infamous night. It covers such topics as Cork City before December 1920, the Black and Tans, Auxiliaries and K Company, Republican Cork, a timeline of events before the burning of Cork City, early fires and arson by crown forces in Cork, the Kilmichael Ambush, the Dillon’s Cross Ambush, premises destroyed, official investigations into the causes, compensation and rebuilding.

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This book explores the lives and deaths of over 300 men, women and children buried in Dublin’s Glasnevin Cemetery who died due to the War of Independence and Civil War. Detailed research brings their stories together for the first time with first-hand accounts of those who witnessed and participated in these historical conflicts. Through the exploration of seemingly ordinary burial records, extraordinary events are revealed. Unfolded are stories of ambushes, informers, assassinations, spies, executions, raids, mutiny and bombings, together with ordinary members of the public, caught up in extraordinary events.

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‘This incredible book is very, very important’. Damien Dempsey In November 2008, Tomás Mac Conmara sat with a 105 five-year-old woman at a nursing home in Clare. While gently moving through her memories, he asked the east Clare native; ‘Do you remember the time that four lads were killed on the Bridge of Killaloe?’. Almost immediately, the woman's countenance changed to deep outward sadness. Her recollection took him back to 17th November 1920, when news of the brutal death of four men, who became known as the Scariff Martyrs, was revealed to the local community. Late the previous night, on the bridge of Killaloe they were shot by British Forces, who claimed they had attempted to escape. Locals insisted they were murdered. A story remembered for 100 years is now fully told. This incident presents a remarkable confluence of dimensions. The young rebels committed to a cause. Their betrayal by a spy, their torture and evident refusal to betray comrades, the loneliness and liminal nature of their site of death on a bridge. The withholding of their dead bodies and their collective burial. All these dimensions bequeath a moment which carries an enduring quality that has reverberated across the generations and continues to strike a deep chord within the local landscape of memory in East Clare and beyond.

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In this book the author chronicles the abuse by the British state of emergency laws: harassment and intimidation of civilians; injuries and deaths caused by rubber and plastic bullets; collusion between British security forces, British intelligence and loyalist paramilitaries; unjust killings and murders by the security forces; excessive punishments and degrading strip-searches in prisons – abuses ignored by all but a handful of individuals and civil rights organisations.

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"The Lost Soul of Eamonn Magee" is the winner of the WILLIAM HILL SPORTS BOOK OF THE YEAR and EIR SPORTS BOOK OF THE YEAR. This powerful and raw memoir tells the story of Eamonn Magee, a world-champion boxer from Ireland who struggled with addiction, violence, and tragedy. A gifted fighter, Eamonn's career was plagued by personal demons and brushes with the law, but he found solace in training his son's boxing career. However, his dreams of a Magee dynasty were shattered when his son was brutally murdered. With unbridled honesty, "The Lost Soul of Eamonn Magee" takes readers on a journey of heartache, laughter, and ultimately, redemption. If you're a fan of sports memoirs and true crime books, this is a must-read. Don't miss out on this compelling, unforgettable story of a life lived on the brink. Order your copy today!

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The final installment of the acclaimed Nine Lives trilogy, sequel to The Book of Learning and The Book of Shadows. Popular author with a high social media profile and active event schedule. Fantasy adventure set in Ireland. First book was 2016 Dublin Citywide Read for kids. Second in the series was short-listed for Bord Gais Energy Children's Book of Year 2016. In The Book of Revenge, the final book in E.R. Murray's Nine Lives trilogy, Ebony Smart faces her toughest challenge so far. Her enemies, Judge Ambrose and Zach Stone, have a powerful new ally and an army of Shadow Walkers to use against her. Without the help of The Book of Learning, Ebony, with pet rat, Winston, and the Order of the Nine Lives, must find a way to discover their plans, defeat the magical beings and rescue her parents. A story of ghosts, time-travel, battles and dark magic, this is Ebony’s greatest adventure so far – but will it also be her last?

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Unleash the power of Irish wit and wisdom with this collection of quotes, proverbs and blessings from Padraic O'Farrell. Discover the timeless wisdom of great Irish men such as Shaw, Wilde, Synge and Swift, as well as the unspoiled gems of Irish folklore and legend. Perfect for those seeking a taste of Irish culture, this book is a must-have for anyone celebrating St Patrick's Day and beyond. * There’s no point in keeping a dog if you are going to do your own barking. * The best way to get an Irishman to refuse to do something is by ordering it. * Initiative is praiseworthy when it succeeds, stupid when it fails. * Burning the candle at both ends will soon leave you without a light.< * The smaller the cottage, the wider the door. * Morality is simply the attitude we adopt towards people whom we personally dislike. - Oscar Wilde

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John Millington Synge's classic work set in Mayo. A mysterious traveller, Christy Mahon, arrives in the village believing he has killed his father. He is looked upon as a hero by the locals and falls in love with one of them, Pegeen Mike, who agrees to marry him. But when Christy's 'murdered' father appears on the scene, Christy's fortune takes a downturn with comic and tragic result. The Playboy of the Western World is, undoubtedly, Synge’s masterpiece. It was produced at the Abbey Theatre in 1907 and provoked an immediate riot and continuing controversy. This edition of the play is introduced by renowned Kerry actor Éamonn Keane whose interpretation of the role of Christy Mahon ranks him with the greatest actors to have played this part.

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The fifteen-year-old who was the very first immigrant of any nationality to land at the famous handling station at Ellis Island, New York has now become a young woman of twenty. Annie returns to New York and her family and friends after her two-year stay in the wild west. She is excited by all the opportunities New York has to offer her, but especially by the prospect of spending more time with Mike Tierney, the young man she loves. The glamour of New York life is seductive, although it contrasts sharply with the poverty all around. Annie sees both sides of the city, and must decide where her loyalties lie. At the same time, Mike is campaigning in a presidential election while Annie fights for women's right to vote. Then, just when life seems to be going right, war intervenes, taking Mike far away into great danger. Annie discovers that there is sorrow as well as joy in growing up and that some things are irreplaceable.

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When Clooney Coyle promises Vonnie Gallagher they’ll be friends for life, he has no idea what he’s letting himself in for. The lonely and eccentric Vonnie quickly becomes obsessed with the kind-hearted but insecure actor, and her misguided crush soon develops into something much more sinister, which leaves Clooney’s career in tatters. But when fate takes a strange turn and elevates the pair into an overnight celebrity couple, Clooney must decide whether to embrace the fame he has longed for since childhood or end the ridiculous charade before Vonnie’s jealous – and murderous – inclinations spiral out of control.

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Tayto, the metric system, Aisling Bea, Luke ‘Ming’ Flanagan, Blindboy, Marian Keyes and we never get embarassed on the international stage by dodgy Royals – that’s just 7 of the 101 Reasons Why Ireland is Better than England. This tongue-in-cheek sweep across the two nations is aimed at Irish people, wherever they live, not to mention the 10 million English people who move over here after Brexit. With our neighbour losing its marbles, there has never been a better time to exact revenge for the two most despicable things that England has ever inflicted on the Irish – Jacob Rees-Mogg and claiming Saoirse Ronan is British.

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A random collection of tales of human tragedy, eccentrics, crime and punishment, hanging and rioting on 'The Green'. 'The Green' for several hundred years was effectively the killing fields of Dublin, where the city's criminals were taken to be hanged. Within these pages you will find tales of high-profile executions and lesser-known ones such as the hanging of the brothel-keeper Darky Kelly and the barbaric execution of Mary Fairfield the last person to be hanged there [1784]. Also included are Dan 'The Liberator,' who fought a battle with his love rival at Harcourt Fields, the champion archer Celia Betham, and Bridget Hitler, sister-in-law of Adolf. Tales of rioting on the Green, a race in the Iveagh Gardens between a man and a horse called Rover and a host of characters and incidents that you won't find in any guidebook.

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The special magic of the Irish imagination shines forth in these fourteen authentic folktales. These tales are filled with the mystery and adventure of a land of lonely country roads and isolated farms, humble cottages and lordly castles, rolling fields and tractless bogs. They tell of ghosts and giants, of strange happenings and wondrous deeds, of fairies and witches and of fools and kings. Above all in these stories there is a sense of the full wonder of a world where the marvellous and the unexpected can always happen, and nothing is ever quite as it seems.

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A handy pocket-size guide to natural remedies from your garden and store-cupboard for complaints ranging from coughs and colds to aches and pains that allows you to save money and avoid taking mass-produced chemicals on a regular basis. Fiann gives simple step-by-step instructions to make straightforward salves and ointments, teas, rinses and syrups that will fill the first-aid cupboard, as well as identifying plants that can be used straight away with no preparation required. Fiann's singular knowledge of the properties and uses of herbs, fruit and flowers from the garden makes fascinating reading, as well as having extensive practical applications.

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