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A review by leemac027
Dublin by Edward Rutherfurd
4.0
The amount of research Edward Rutherfurd does for his books never ceases to amaze. The fine detail that covers hundreds of years makes these books so absorbing.
This first book in the Dublin saga is no exception with the story starting back in AD430 and ending just as the Reformation is kicking in. It is fascinating to watch the stories of these clans unfold over the centuries and see the characteristics of these ancestors being carried through to those who follow them. The flashing green eyes, the urge to fight, the loyalty to clan and the fiery tempers come through, generation after generation.
We are taken on an intricate ride through the establishment of Dublin (or Dyflin and then Dubh Linn as it has been known) with the rivalries against the High Kings, the domination of Brian Boru and the ever present threat (and sometimes ally) of England.
I think I developed a connection to the Ui Fergasa clan and the troubles of Fergus - the patriarch of the clan and someone who influenced his family down the ages.
Not wanting to give away too much of the plot but it is fascinating to see the battles and intrigues between the O'Neills, O'Tooles, Doyles, MacGowans and the Walshes over time. Add the swinging moods of Henry VIII and things become very interesting indeed.
I also found out the origin of the old phrase "beyond the Pale" of which I had no idea! But no giveaways here, you will have to read the book, and highly recommended it is.
This first book in the Dublin saga is no exception with the story starting back in AD430 and ending just as the Reformation is kicking in. It is fascinating to watch the stories of these clans unfold over the centuries and see the characteristics of these ancestors being carried through to those who follow them. The flashing green eyes, the urge to fight, the loyalty to clan and the fiery tempers come through, generation after generation.
We are taken on an intricate ride through the establishment of Dublin (or Dyflin and then Dubh Linn as it has been known) with the rivalries against the High Kings, the domination of Brian Boru and the ever present threat (and sometimes ally) of England.
I think I developed a connection to the Ui Fergasa clan and the troubles of Fergus - the patriarch of the clan and someone who influenced his family down the ages.
Not wanting to give away too much of the plot but it is fascinating to see the battles and intrigues between the O'Neills, O'Tooles, Doyles, MacGowans and the Walshes over time. Add the swinging moods of Henry VIII and things become very interesting indeed.
I also found out the origin of the old phrase "beyond the Pale" of which I had no idea! But no giveaways here, you will have to read the book, and highly recommended it is.