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Allegiance: A Dublin Novella
William Young is an MI5 informant, using his working-class background to gain the trust of groups deemed a threat to the Crown. Tiring of his double life, William travels to Dublin for one last assignment: infiltrating a group of IRA supporters. But these "rebels" are not what he expected — and one of them, a firebrand named Adam with a past as painful as his own, shakes William's uncertain footing to its foundation. As the crisis in Dublin escalates, William treads a dangerous path between the violence in the streets, the vengeance of the Crown, and the costliest risk of all — falling in love with the man he was sent to betray.
188 pages, ebook
First published January 1, 2012
6 people are currently reading
530 people want to read
About the author
Heather Domin
4 books122 followersI write historical fiction combining queer romance with a little action/adventure, a little suspense, and a lot of semicolons.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 44 reviews
July 16, 2015
Can someone die of cuteness?
Because I think I did!
I love the 20s. I’ve never read a book set in Ireland in that period of time, so it was brand new for me. I could feel myself absorbed by the setting, the streets, the people, the smells, the flavor of the great beer and the awful whisky, the fashion, the music, the way of thinking of the people living in Dublin… In fact, the SPIRIT of Ireland! (From my modest opinion, I try to run away from stereotypes :P ).
William Young is the main character in this story. He’s a Scot whose aim is to be a policeman, with the intention of maintain the order and control in his city, maintain the peace and avoid the people to suffer what he had to live during his teens. He has seen the worst and he only wants to move forward and make a little difference in Glasgow, to make it a better place, a place where people live happy and without fear.
But for achieve that, he has to follow rules first, so Lord Christopher from the Secret Service Bureau (future MI5, oh my, James Bond-Daniel Craig! Although I've always been Roger Moore's team or Pierce Brosnan's) commands him to gain the trust from the Irish lines and get information about strange acts that could accomplish terrorist attacks or a coup against the Treaty just signed. The quest is not something he is looking forward to, but in order to reach his own ends he has to act with those means. He’s not a supporter of the Treaty but he isn’t against the Englishmen either, he's just against the violence.
So, in order to accomplish he mission, he arrives to a tavern where the “head” of some disloyal portion of the population lives, and lucky for him he is hired and soon he settles in the amateur group of Irish supporters. He is supposed to maintain a distance from them and not get emotionally involved, but when he notices, it’s too late. In part due to the people surrounding him, in part because of Adam.
Adam Elliot is a scoundrel young man with amounts of the leader Cs: “charisma, cockiness and charm”. He is famous for his numerous conquests and his wits, and he is suspected of being very involved in the cause. He's irresistible and is shameless for his dubious actions.
William feels quickly fascinated with Adam because of his confident and wicked façade. Soon they’re friends and with the following weeks, they become something more.
And they felt so natural together! The tale is told quietly, without great surprises or irregularities. It’s smooth and with soft landings, in a sweet and simple way. This deceiving simplicity turns into feelings and declarations with no weird sensations. When they give in to each other you can’t be shocked because it’s meant to be like that. They are not sappy but they are not insipid, either. It’s true the sex scenes are not that impressive or explicitly written, but I didn’t miss them at all.
You believe the transition between the mischievous guy Adam is and the lovable man with whom William falls in love. I adore slow burns and their story is one of those, with no rush but with no pause. Just… gradually being mended together, until you think being joined in one is something to be expected and the opposite are lies.
So, you see, I couldn’t take my eyes off of this book for long. I only wanted the breadcrumbs they left me or to watch them through a hole in the wall, because they are SO cute together I just wanted more from them!
But their little heaven is threatened to be broken in pieces with the different conflicts to come: opposite allegiances, the secret role of William in the dispute, the betrayal his chosen side would inevitability bring, the pain in Adam’s heart… All of that will have to be sorted out to have a future together and with the people they love in a safe position.
The ending is cute as the whole book is and I only could sigh contently when I finished it.
Because I think I did!
I love the 20s. I’ve never read a book set in Ireland in that period of time, so it was brand new for me. I could feel myself absorbed by the setting, the streets, the people, the smells, the flavor of the great beer and the awful whisky, the fashion, the music, the way of thinking of the people living in Dublin… In fact, the SPIRIT of Ireland! (From my modest opinion, I try to run away from stereotypes :P ).
William Young is the main character in this story. He’s a Scot whose aim is to be a policeman, with the intention of maintain the order and control in his city, maintain the peace and avoid the people to suffer what he had to live during his teens. He has seen the worst and he only wants to move forward and make a little difference in Glasgow, to make it a better place, a place where people live happy and without fear.
But for achieve that, he has to follow rules first, so Lord Christopher from the Secret Service Bureau (future MI5, oh my, James Bond-Daniel Craig! Although I've always been Roger Moore's team or Pierce Brosnan's) commands him to gain the trust from the Irish lines and get information about strange acts that could accomplish terrorist attacks or a coup against the Treaty just signed. The quest is not something he is looking forward to, but in order to reach his own ends he has to act with those means. He’s not a supporter of the Treaty but he isn’t against the Englishmen either, he's just against the violence.
So, in order to accomplish he mission, he arrives to a tavern where the “head” of some disloyal portion of the population lives, and lucky for him he is hired and soon he settles in the amateur group of Irish supporters. He is supposed to maintain a distance from them and not get emotionally involved, but when he notices, it’s too late. In part due to the people surrounding him, in part because of Adam.
Adam Elliot is a scoundrel young man with amounts of the leader Cs: “charisma, cockiness and charm”. He is famous for his numerous conquests and his wits, and he is suspected of being very involved in the cause. He's irresistible and is shameless for his dubious actions.
William feels quickly fascinated with Adam because of his confident and wicked façade. Soon they’re friends and with the following weeks, they become something more.
And they felt so natural together! The tale is told quietly, without great surprises or irregularities. It’s smooth and with soft landings, in a sweet and simple way. This deceiving simplicity turns into feelings and declarations with no weird sensations. When they give in to each other you can’t be shocked because it’s meant to be like that. They are not sappy but they are not insipid, either. It’s true the sex scenes are not that impressive or explicitly written, but I didn’t miss them at all.
You believe the transition between the mischievous guy Adam is and the lovable man with whom William falls in love. I adore slow burns and their story is one of those, with no rush but with no pause. Just… gradually being mended together, until you think being joined in one is something to be expected and the opposite are lies.
So, you see, I couldn’t take my eyes off of this book for long. I only wanted the breadcrumbs they left me or to watch them through a hole in the wall, because they are SO cute together I just wanted more from them!
But their little heaven is threatened to be broken in pieces with the different conflicts to come: opposite allegiances, the secret role of William in the dispute, the betrayal his chosen side would inevitability bring, the pain in Adam’s heart… All of that will have to be sorted out to have a future together and with the people they love in a safe position.
The ending is cute as the whole book is and I only could sigh contently when I finished it.
"You broke your loyalty for me," Adam whispered.
"I found my loyalty because of you," William said. "I will never forget that."
August 27, 2012
4,5 stars upped to the full five for saving my weekend!
I was considering giving up reading altogether after starting - or better said trying - to read around 10 books from my tbr pile. Most of them turned out to be not even worth adding them as DNF.
Why did I have to kiss ten frogs (payed for) to find a prince (for free)? Brrrrrrrrrrr.....
Allegiance was a well written story with a great sense of time and place, likeable "real" heroes, secondary characters I wanted to hug and slap around, heart-stopping moments (it took me a few seconds to remind myself that this is a romance...*phew*) and even one or two secretly blinked-away stray tears. Movie in the head - music in the ears!
Great story, the playlist kept me busy (made one of my own...), loved it!
And I will continue reading....;-)
I was considering giving up reading altogether after starting - or better said trying - to read around 10 books from my tbr pile. Most of them turned out to be not even worth adding them as DNF.
Why did I have to kiss ten frogs (payed for) to find a prince (for free)? Brrrrrrrrrrr.....
Allegiance was a well written story with a great sense of time and place, likeable "real" heroes, secondary characters I wanted to hug and slap around, heart-stopping moments (it took me a few seconds to remind myself that this is a romance...*phew*) and even one or two secretly blinked-away stray tears. Movie in the head - music in the ears!
Great story, the playlist kept me busy (made one of my own...), loved it!
And I will continue reading....;-)
May 11, 2014
unpolished, but full of heart.
a beginning clumsy with amateurish dialogue and ordinary prose almost drove me to set this aside, but I'm glad I didn't.
sure, I skimmed a bit—but william and adam are charming as hell, and so was every other secondary character in dublin, except for kelly.
kelly chaps my ass.
almost entirely worth the calories for a terrific line in the last scene alone:
slain.
I was slain by feelz.
a beginning clumsy with amateurish dialogue and ordinary prose almost drove me to set this aside, but I'm glad I didn't.
sure, I skimmed a bit—but william and adam are charming as hell, and so was every other secondary character in dublin, except for kelly.
kelly chaps my ass.
almost entirely worth the calories for a terrific line in the last scene alone:
slain.
I was slain by feelz.
February 16, 2014
I love the historical Dublin setting, the strong female characters, and the central romance between Scottish William and younger, Irish Adam. It felt real and bittersweet. My only complaint is that it was a bit too easy how William insinuated himself amongst the rebels. Overall a very satisfying story.
March 13, 2019
Allegiance. A Dublin Novella by Heather Domin was a truly pleasant and somewhat unexpected surprise.
I've had this book in my TBR for quite a while and for one reason or another, I've always ended up passing it by to prioritise other things. Until, that is, a couple of days ago.
Set in the crucial months of 1922 during which the newly-born Irish Free State was still struggling towards self-determination and was violently stirred by internal and external opposing forces, Allegiance focuses on William Young, a Scotsman who's been working for the MI5 as an informer and is now infiltrating a group of Irish patriots.
The plot of the novel is very interesting and combines historical facts and personal matters in a deeply compelling and convincing fashion.
The concept of 'allegiance' - and crucially how and whether one's allegiances should or can change - is truly central to the book that presents a very complex network of personal relationships and loyalties that are not limited to political factions but extend into the realm of love, family and friendship constructing a tapestry that is fascinating to watch and capable of causing a considerable amount of heartache and narrative tension in the reader when we see it unravel.
The two main characters in the book - William Young and Adam Elliott - are equally compelling.
William is set in his conviction that working for the MI5 could somehow stop the kind of violence that destroyed his family and is doggedly determined to help a sister who, perhaps, is much more resourceful and resilient than he gives her credit for.
Adam is a spark of energy and activity. He seems to be a body in perennial motion, busy as he is in courting, singing, dancing and socialising - activities that hide a very troublesome secret and a pensive and sensitive personality that comes to the surface almost only when he is with William.
The cast of secondary characters is rich and rewarding.
Despite some editing slips, the novel is very nicely written, with a believable sense of time and location. As pointed out by other reviewers, there are several crucial scenes that are worth committing to memory. In particular, one between William and Adam towards the novel's epilogue is really touching and rewarding in its subdued tones and apparent simplicity.
Highly recommended!
I've had this book in my TBR for quite a while and for one reason or another, I've always ended up passing it by to prioritise other things. Until, that is, a couple of days ago.
Set in the crucial months of 1922 during which the newly-born Irish Free State was still struggling towards self-determination and was violently stirred by internal and external opposing forces, Allegiance focuses on William Young, a Scotsman who's been working for the MI5 as an informer and is now infiltrating a group of Irish patriots.
The plot of the novel is very interesting and combines historical facts and personal matters in a deeply compelling and convincing fashion.
The concept of 'allegiance' - and crucially how and whether one's allegiances should or can change - is truly central to the book that presents a very complex network of personal relationships and loyalties that are not limited to political factions but extend into the realm of love, family and friendship constructing a tapestry that is fascinating to watch and capable of causing a considerable amount of heartache and narrative tension in the reader when we see it unravel.
The two main characters in the book - William Young and Adam Elliott - are equally compelling.
William is set in his conviction that working for the MI5 could somehow stop the kind of violence that destroyed his family and is doggedly determined to help a sister who, perhaps, is much more resourceful and resilient than he gives her credit for.
Adam is a spark of energy and activity. He seems to be a body in perennial motion, busy as he is in courting, singing, dancing and socialising - activities that hide a very troublesome secret and a pensive and sensitive personality that comes to the surface almost only when he is with William.
The cast of secondary characters is rich and rewarding.
Despite some editing slips, the novel is very nicely written, with a believable sense of time and location. As pointed out by other reviewers, there are several crucial scenes that are worth committing to memory. In particular, one between William and Adam towards the novel's epilogue is really touching and rewarding in its subdued tones and apparent simplicity.
Highly recommended!
June 12, 2016
You love what you bleed for, his father had once said. And sooner or later, you bleed for what you love.
Allegiance: A Dublin Novella
is a story set in 1922, after the Anglo-Irish Treaty and during the following Civil War and the time leading up to it.
We witness the events through the life and fate of William, a Scot, employed by the Brits to infiltrate some supposed IRA supporters.
The author does a wonderful job with creating a rich atmosphere and paints a vivid picture of Dublin and its citizens. I love when a setting comes to life, when you can smell and taste the world, when you can hear the music playing.
I somehow really like the gloomy, yet exciting vibe that a pub gives off, and therefore loved that a lot of the story takes place there.
The characters are well developed, too. They are intriguing and distinct, but not over the top, just normal folks trying to make the best out of their lives:
"This is all I know, Glasgow. All a man can do is what he thinks right."
This is a very slow-paced story, taking its time to show us the world, indulging, then suddenly picking up the pace and swiping you off your feet.
I loved how the romance is so subtly developed, with just the slightest notions and hints. And I think that it all played out perfectly in the end. While it wasn't always easy to read, it was very well worth it.
There are a few moments when I hoped the author would have brought out the characters's thoughts more clearly, when I had to fill in the blanks instead.
The events before the Civil War, the lives of the population, their hopes and struggles within this difficult times, the interwoven spy plot, was very interesting and I loved reading about it.
For some reason, this book is free, which is kinda amazing. I really liked the book and I recommend it :-)
***
This book counts for my following reading challenges 2015:
- 100 books in total
- 20 books, trying something new
Allegiance: A Dublin Novella
is a story set in 1922, after the Anglo-Irish Treaty and during the following Civil War and the time leading up to it.
We witness the events through the life and fate of William, a Scot, employed by the Brits to infiltrate some supposed IRA supporters.
The author does a wonderful job with creating a rich atmosphere and paints a vivid picture of Dublin and its citizens. I love when a setting comes to life, when you can smell and taste the world, when you can hear the music playing.
I somehow really like the gloomy, yet exciting vibe that a pub gives off, and therefore loved that a lot of the story takes place there.
The characters are well developed, too. They are intriguing and distinct, but not over the top, just normal folks trying to make the best out of their lives:
"This is all I know, Glasgow. All a man can do is what he thinks right."
This is a very slow-paced story, taking its time to show us the world, indulging, then suddenly picking up the pace and swiping you off your feet.
I loved how the romance is so subtly developed, with just the slightest notions and hints. And I think that it all played out perfectly in the end. While it wasn't always easy to read, it was very well worth it.
There are a few moments when I hoped the author would have brought out the characters's thoughts more clearly, when I had to fill in the blanks instead.
The events before the Civil War, the lives of the population, their hopes and struggles within this difficult times, the interwoven spy plot, was very interesting and I loved reading about it.
For some reason, this book is free, which is kinda amazing. I really liked the book and I recommend it :-)
***
This book counts for my following reading challenges 2015:
- 100 books in total
- 20 books, trying something new
February 13, 2015
BR with Mark.
June 5, 2016
I have no words to describe how deeply touched I was by this novella...I read it yesterday and it's like in my mind I'm still in the streets of Dublin, following William, or in that pub dancing and laughing alongside Adam and him, or just watching William tearing apart, trying to make the right decision, and feeling his inner turmoil as if it were my own. Allegiance is a perfect blend of history and romance...the story about friendship, allegiance, duty, fighting for a freedom and love...and no matter how much I wished we'd get more of William and Adam, those stolen moments evoked more emotions in me than most of the full-length novels I've read. I honestly can't recommend it high enough...
December 10, 2020
Working for British Intelligence, William Young is sent to Dublin in 1922 to infiltrate a small group of IRA supporters. When he finds himself not only sympathizing with their cause but falling in love with one of their numbers, his loyalties are tested - and violence is about to erupt.
Surprisingly good freebie novella. I just wish it had been longer.
Surprisingly good freebie novella. I just wish it had been longer.
January 13, 2012
I liked Heir of Raetia by this author very much, so when I saw that she released this FREE story, of course I wanted to read and review it. Have I mentioned that it is free? I mean ebook's edition is free, you have to pay for paperback. I was a little worried that since this is her earlier work (three- four years earlier? I am not exactly sure when Heir of Raetia was released, 2009 or 2010), the writing would not be as strong and enjoyable. Personally I still enjoyed it very much, I thought she managed to give the characters depth and dimension and portrayed the historical settings very vividly. I know next to nothing about Irish war for independence, so I cannot be a judge of how realistically settings are portrayed, but here is what I know - to me the writer managed to reflect what is the essense of every war, of every civil war of the sorts. Everybody thinks that their side is right, a lot of good people have their own reasons for participating in these conflicts and it always ends with a lot of innocent blood spilled and on both sides. I thought that this was close to perfect development of "from enemies to lovers" trope, I liked how not William nor Adam had any time to spend angsting about why they are attracted to each other. I mean, William spends some time (truly not too much) angsting but thats because he is attracted to the man he perceives as potential enemy initially, not because he is attracted to a man. And Adam is not a POV character, but when he speaks I also have not noticed that he has much angst to share about the fact that he is attracted to a man. In fact, while it mostly made a perfect sense for me - both men involved in a war in their respective positions and it seems that what is happening around them and how they are dealing with it is what they spent their time thinking about and love just happens because it happened and they take it, but while William seemed to always be bisexual, I was under impression that Adam was attracted to women all his life and while it is not said, I thought that it was possible that William was his first male lover. I dont know, wasnt he just a touch confused by that? Again, I am not complaining much, as I said, it makes sense to me that at times of war, men are ready to die at any given day (and Adam certainly is ready to die at any given day) and will take any joy and happiness that comes their way without much hesitation. I thought chemistry between them was raw and genuine, I loved how complex William was and how eventually he found his real loyalties and the older I get the more I agree that loyalty to the person you love is the most important one loyalty in the world. "Everything was complicated; Adam was simple" - so very true
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 22, 2018
I've said it before, I'll say it again- Heather Domin does an amazing job at building historical settings.
The events in Allegiance take place right after the Easter Rising in Dublin (1916) - a time some say it's controversial, for others it's the rebellion that shaped modern Irish history.
She's chosen her main characters to be an Irish, suspected IRA supporter, and a Scot - working for MI5.
And in the middle of all this, she's created a very beautiful and emotional tale of love and bravery. Of two men finding / re-discovering where their loyalties lay.
" You love what you bleed for, his father had once said. And sooner or later, you bleed for what you love."
It's a great book / + it's free/ and I'll probably keep getting back to it.
The events in Allegiance take place right after the Easter Rising in Dublin (1916) - a time some say it's controversial, for others it's the rebellion that shaped modern Irish history.
She's chosen her main characters to be an Irish, suspected IRA supporter, and a Scot - working for MI5.
And in the middle of all this, she's created a very beautiful and emotional tale of love and bravery. Of two men finding / re-discovering where their loyalties lay.
" You love what you bleed for, his father had once said. And sooner or later, you bleed for what you love."
It's a great book / + it's free/ and I'll probably keep getting back to it.
January 8, 2012
A heart-stopping tale of loyalty and love; William’s duty is overshadowed by the honesty he encounters in a Dublin pub. Keen descriptions and tight dialogue frame the action as suspense builds, resulting in a satisfying, touching conclusion. Domin’s strengths are her authentic characters and sharp eye for detail. Great prose!
March 25, 2012
A beautiful story - two strong heroes, a grippingly dire setting and a very satisfying end. Great secondary cast, too, especially Mary and Meg.
February 1, 2012
3.5 stars.
This is a free ebook by Heather Dormin, that can be downloaded on smashwords in several different formats, such as Epub, Kindle, PDF...
Link: https://www.smashwords.com/books/view...
The historical setting is really well done, and I enjoyed reading this book a lot.
The plot--a British spy (well, Scottish, to be exact) on an assignment in Ireland to infiltrate an alleged militant IRA group finding himself falling for one member of said group and beginning to doubt whether he is fighting on the right side or not--is very much to my liking.
Although I enjoyed this book, I have to admit that something was missing. I was never totally caught up in the story, it wasn't as gripping as other books I've read so far.
Don't get me wrong, it was engaging, and I loved the historical Irish scenery, and both Adam and William (<- spy) are likable and interesting MCs...
... but to be fair to those books and authors that I rated as a 4 stars-read, I can't give "Allegiance: A Dublin Novella" the full 4 stars, therefore, it's "just" 3.5.
This is a free ebook by Heather Dormin, that can be downloaded on smashwords in several different formats, such as Epub, Kindle, PDF...
Link: https://www.smashwords.com/books/view...
The historical setting is really well done, and I enjoyed reading this book a lot.
The plot--a British spy (well, Scottish, to be exact) on an assignment in Ireland to infiltrate an alleged militant IRA group finding himself falling for one member of said group and beginning to doubt whether he is fighting on the right side or not--is very much to my liking.
Although I enjoyed this book, I have to admit that something was missing. I was never totally caught up in the story, it wasn't as gripping as other books I've read so far.
Don't get me wrong, it was engaging, and I loved the historical Irish scenery, and both Adam and William (<- spy) are likable and interesting MCs...
... but to be fair to those books and authors that I rated as a 4 stars-read, I can't give "Allegiance: A Dublin Novella" the full 4 stars, therefore, it's "just" 3.5.
July 14, 2014
14.07.2014: Hâlâ etkisindeyim...
I LOVED IT!
(1922 Kış-İlkbahar-Sonbahar/ Dublin, Glasgow, Londra)
İrlanda'da gergin bir hava var. IRA, Cumhuriyetçiler ve İngiltere arasında ciddi sert rüzgârlar esiyor.
İngiltere tarafından görevlendirilen William Young, Dublin'e gelerek şüpheli bir takım kişileri (Allegiance adında gizli bir grup) gözlemlemek ile yükümlüdür.
Burada kendine yeni bir hayat kuracak sıradan bir İskoç olarak Gerald ve kızı Mary'nin barında çalışmaya başlar. Kısa sürede onların güvenini kazanır ve tabii ki Allegiance'in da. Bu grupta bir de Adam Elliott adında bir de genç İrlandalı vardır. William ile Adam hiç ummadiklari şekilde yakınlaşirlar.
Willam'in geçmişi, Adam'in vatan sevgisi, Allegiance, İrlanda, IRA ve İngiltere'yi barındıran çok değişkenli denklemde AŞK kendine nasıl bir yol bulacaktır?
Çok çok sevdim. Kesinlikle iyi yazılmış ve kurgulanmış güzel bir hikaye idi. Kötü son da olabilirdi açıkçası ama öyle olmadığına sevindim. Keşke çevrilmesi söz konusu olsa.
I LOVED IT!
(1922 Kış-İlkbahar-Sonbahar/ Dublin, Glasgow, Londra)
İrlanda'da gergin bir hava var. IRA, Cumhuriyetçiler ve İngiltere arasında ciddi sert rüzgârlar esiyor.
İngiltere tarafından görevlendirilen William Young, Dublin'e gelerek şüpheli bir takım kişileri (Allegiance adında gizli bir grup) gözlemlemek ile yükümlüdür.
Burada kendine yeni bir hayat kuracak sıradan bir İskoç olarak Gerald ve kızı Mary'nin barında çalışmaya başlar. Kısa sürede onların güvenini kazanır ve tabii ki Allegiance'in da. Bu grupta bir de Adam Elliott adında bir de genç İrlandalı vardır. William ile Adam hiç ummadiklari şekilde yakınlaşirlar.
Willam'in geçmişi, Adam'in vatan sevgisi, Allegiance, İrlanda, IRA ve İngiltere'yi barındıran çok değişkenli denklemde AŞK kendine nasıl bir yol bulacaktır?
Çok çok sevdim. Kesinlikle iyi yazılmış ve kurgulanmış güzel bir hikaye idi. Kötü son da olabilirdi açıkçası ama öyle olmadığına sevindim. Keşke çevrilmesi söz konusu olsa.
December 29, 2014
Well, it was worth a shot.
You can read this for free online, which is nice: https://www.smashwords.com/books/view...
It's certainly a compelling premise, but it mostly fails to live up to that - largely, I think, because there's not much sense of place or, indeed, of character. It's totally possible to create vivid settings and characters in a novella, but "Allegiance" doesn't manage that.
Actually, I found it oddly disconnected from the events of the Irish Civil War. Maybe because there's not much of Ireland here. Rather, it reads like Domin was shooting for "generally old-timey but, you know, nicer."
It wants grit.
You can read this for free online, which is nice: https://www.smashwords.com/books/view...
It's certainly a compelling premise, but it mostly fails to live up to that - largely, I think, because there's not much sense of place or, indeed, of character. It's totally possible to create vivid settings and characters in a novella, but "Allegiance" doesn't manage that.
Actually, I found it oddly disconnected from the events of the Irish Civil War. Maybe because there's not much of Ireland here. Rather, it reads like Domin was shooting for "generally old-timey but, you know, nicer."
It wants grit.
June 8, 2012
Wow. This was one of the best romantic stories that I've read in a very long time. It's one of those books that you don't want to put down, and when you have to put it down, you just keep thinking about it. The characters are so endearing. It is so well written that it actually brought me to tears in some parts and laughter and joy in others. I recommend this book to everyone who enjoys a good story.
February 23, 2013
This is a good historical novella, heavy on the period details and light on the expressions of emotion. The emotion is there, but it's much more evident in the action than in the narration.
I have no idea whether the characters' relaxed attitudes towards homosexuality/bisexuality were even remotely appropriate for the period. Given that most of them were devout Catholics I have my doubts, but that would be very interesting to know.
I have no idea whether the characters' relaxed attitudes towards homosexuality/bisexuality were even remotely appropriate for the period. Given that most of them were devout Catholics I have my doubts, but that would be very interesting to know.
August 1, 2015
I was amazed that this was a free read! I have not been sucked into a historical for a long, long, time. Thank you! I am looking forward to checking out more of Heather Domin's work!
July 2, 2017
Bien écrit,histoire d'hommes dans le milieu très particuliers des rebelles irlandais....et qui se passe plutôt du côté des gens ordinaires ,attachants , forts de leur certitude qui ont aussi leur faiblesse face à la duplicité des plus nantis....un remake d'avatar...et une jolie histoire entre 2 hommes....des vrais comme j'aime
Merci Sidh Press
September 7, 2017
What a great read. The author has brought together a wonderful romance with an historical setting and a significant event in Irish history. The characters developed and travelled well and the journey that William traverses to find a 'home' was well crafted. Loved the ending but I do hope it might also be that start of another chapter in a second instalment.
January 1, 2018
Charming. But I wish the 1920’s Dublin setting had been able to mask for me that this is a very basic romance with clunky dialogue and cardboard characters. Luckily, a new Peaky Blinders season is in the making.
December 29, 2025
Loved the setting, the events leading up to and during the Irish civil war. I felt all the characters motivations deeply and believable. The cast of characters lovely and endearing, and the conflict engaging.
my only note is I could’ve used an epilogue, but that’s the devils greed in me talking.
my only note is I could’ve used an epilogue, but that’s the devils greed in me talking.
March 19, 2013
Gerry B's Book Reviews
4.5 bees
Available for free download at, Smashwords.com
Review by Gerry Burnie
This being the “Irish month” of March, and although I’m a day late for the 17th, Allegiance: A Dublin Novella by Heather Domin [smashwords, 2013] is is my St. Patrick’s Day contribution.
The story is set in the period just after the so-called “Irish War of Independence” (1919 – 1921), and the signing of the Anglo-Irish treaty. William Young is a MI5 (Military Intelligence, Section 5) Agent, sent to Dublin to infiltrate the IRA (Irish Republican Army.) He does this successfully, posing as a barkeeper at the Flag and Three Pub. There—quite in pace with the story—he meets his intended target—Adam Elliot—who is described as:
The two gravitate toward one another, partly due to William’s prompting, but there is also a genuine attraction between them. I will also mention right here, I found it quite refreshing that neither spends much time worrying about being attracted to another man. Indeed, the only real soul searching is William’s who questions the wisdom (and well he might) of falling in love with a potential enemy.
Nonetheless it happened, and I thought it was quite in keeping with the characters. Being both Irish and Catholic, I don’t ever recall going through a great deal of soul searching because I was attracted to boys. I was too busy trying to get them to notice me, or getting them off alone, so I thought the author handled this part very well.
The ending, although not overly dramatic, was quite satisfactory, and I was left satisfied. I can’t provide any details for fear of spoiling it for others, but it also had a moral to it.
As a relative novice (with only two novels to her credit) Heather Domin is a writer with a maturity well ahead of her experience. Her style is well nigh flawless, and her plot and structure are a delight to read. However, it is her understanding of the characters—both primary and secondary—that adds the charm that should be part and parcel of any Irish novel. Four and one-half bees.
4.5 bees
Available for free download at, Smashwords.com
Review by Gerry Burnie
This being the “Irish month” of March, and although I’m a day late for the 17th, Allegiance: A Dublin Novella by Heather Domin [smashwords, 2013] is is my St. Patrick’s Day contribution.
The story is set in the period just after the so-called “Irish War of Independence” (1919 – 1921), and the signing of the Anglo-Irish treaty. William Young is a MI5 (Military Intelligence, Section 5) Agent, sent to Dublin to infiltrate the IRA (Irish Republican Army.) He does this successfully, posing as a barkeeper at the Flag and Three Pub. There—quite in pace with the story—he meets his intended target—Adam Elliot—who is described as:
[A] bright-eyed young man, several years younger than himself, with his cap cocked too far in one direction and his grin cocked too far in the other. He was cleanfaced and well-dressed, pale brown hair curling out beneath his cap and clear skin glowing in the smoky light. Hands clapped him on the back as he approached the bar, and he smiled at each face in turn and dipped his head in greeting.
The two gravitate toward one another, partly due to William’s prompting, but there is also a genuine attraction between them. I will also mention right here, I found it quite refreshing that neither spends much time worrying about being attracted to another man. Indeed, the only real soul searching is William’s who questions the wisdom (and well he might) of falling in love with a potential enemy.
Nonetheless it happened, and I thought it was quite in keeping with the characters. Being both Irish and Catholic, I don’t ever recall going through a great deal of soul searching because I was attracted to boys. I was too busy trying to get them to notice me, or getting them off alone, so I thought the author handled this part very well.
The ending, although not overly dramatic, was quite satisfactory, and I was left satisfied. I can’t provide any details for fear of spoiling it for others, but it also had a moral to it.
As a relative novice (with only two novels to her credit) Heather Domin is a writer with a maturity well ahead of her experience. Her style is well nigh flawless, and her plot and structure are a delight to read. However, it is her understanding of the characters—both primary and secondary—that adds the charm that should be part and parcel of any Irish novel. Four and one-half bees.
December 3, 2015
Voilà une romance historique originale, tant par le contexte (Dublin 1922) que par les personnages, à la fois ordinaires et frappants.
William, l'écossais de Glasgow, trouve du travail dans un bar de Dublin et ne tarde pas à se faire des amis. Notamment le jeune et fougueux Adam, avec lequel il finira par partager bien plus que quelques pintes de bière. Mais voilà, William est un espion du MI 5 et travaille pour les Anglais, alors qu’Adam est leur cible, rebelle insaisissable. Curieux espion que l'écossais, proche par le cœur, les convictions et le milieu social de ceux qu'il espionne, détestant ses chefs et méprisé par eux. Mais depuis que son père est mort dans une révolte ouvrière, William ne veut plus que de pauvres gens se fassent tuer dans des luttes inutiles, et préfère veiller à sa manière à ce que rien ne s'enflamme. C'est compter sans la rigidité des anglais et la colère rageuse des irlandais. Quand tout s'embrase à Dublin, William devra choisir son allégeance. Se laisser démasquer pour sauver son bel amant de la mort, assumer les déchirements qui résultent de ses trahisons.
J'ai aimé cette histoire et ces deux hommes silencieux et pudiques, qui s'aiment et se déchirent. Cela n'a rien d'une romance classique, pas de guimauve ni de dentelles ici. C'est âpre, violent et pesant comme ces révoltes de pauvres gens qui savent qu'ils ont déjà perdu. Original et prenant, je vous le recommande.
4,4/5
William, l'écossais de Glasgow, trouve du travail dans un bar de Dublin et ne tarde pas à se faire des amis. Notamment le jeune et fougueux Adam, avec lequel il finira par partager bien plus que quelques pintes de bière. Mais voilà, William est un espion du MI 5 et travaille pour les Anglais, alors qu’Adam est leur cible, rebelle insaisissable. Curieux espion que l'écossais, proche par le cœur, les convictions et le milieu social de ceux qu'il espionne, détestant ses chefs et méprisé par eux. Mais depuis que son père est mort dans une révolte ouvrière, William ne veut plus que de pauvres gens se fassent tuer dans des luttes inutiles, et préfère veiller à sa manière à ce que rien ne s'enflamme. C'est compter sans la rigidité des anglais et la colère rageuse des irlandais. Quand tout s'embrase à Dublin, William devra choisir son allégeance. Se laisser démasquer pour sauver son bel amant de la mort, assumer les déchirements qui résultent de ses trahisons.
J'ai aimé cette histoire et ces deux hommes silencieux et pudiques, qui s'aiment et se déchirent. Cela n'a rien d'une romance classique, pas de guimauve ni de dentelles ici. C'est âpre, violent et pesant comme ces révoltes de pauvres gens qui savent qu'ils ont déjà perdu. Original et prenant, je vous le recommande.
4,4/5
September 3, 2012
I really really grateful that I was stumbled upon this great-beautiful-heartwrenching story about a MI5 agent who falls with an Irish gun runner during his assignment. Gosh, I still feel the excitement till now! I'm not into historical but this one definitely wins my heart.
1922. William Young is an MI5 informant, using his working-class background to gain the trust of those deemed a threat to the Crown. Tiring of his double life, William travels to Dublin for one last assignment: infiltrating a circle of IRA supporters. But these "rebels" are not what he expected — and one of them, a firebrand named Adam with a past as painful as his own, shakes William's uncertain footing to its foundation. As the crisis in Dublin escalates, William treads a dangerous path between the violence in the streets, the vengeance of the Crown, and the costliest risk of all — falling in love with the man he was sent to betray.
I'm a bit worry that this story will not have HEA ending since this kinda tricky situation. But as it turns out the ending was satisfying enough though I demand more of William - Adam's happy moments. I meant, hell, it's been a lot of angsty throughout the book; the bloody war, the suspense, the misunderstanding, etc. So, I think it's not exaggerating if I demand a sequel, rite? ^^
Very well done, Ms Heather Domin, very well done.
1922. William Young is an MI5 informant, using his working-class background to gain the trust of those deemed a threat to the Crown. Tiring of his double life, William travels to Dublin for one last assignment: infiltrating a circle of IRA supporters. But these "rebels" are not what he expected — and one of them, a firebrand named Adam with a past as painful as his own, shakes William's uncertain footing to its foundation. As the crisis in Dublin escalates, William treads a dangerous path between the violence in the streets, the vengeance of the Crown, and the costliest risk of all — falling in love with the man he was sent to betray.
I'm a bit worry that this story will not have HEA ending since this kinda tricky situation. But as it turns out the ending was satisfying enough though I demand more of William - Adam's happy moments. I meant, hell, it's been a lot of angsty throughout the book; the bloody war, the suspense, the misunderstanding, etc. So, I think it's not exaggerating if I demand a sequel, rite? ^^
Very well done, Ms Heather Domin, very well done.
January 7, 2017
3.5 stars.
There was a lot of heart in this story and the author obviously knew her history; the whole book was well researched and very real, atmospheric and lively, the characters jumped right off the page. It also had a happy ending, without it turning into a cheesy mess.
I enjoyed the romance between Adam and William, but it was a little too slow for me. Yes, there was obvious sexual tension between them, and some of their scenes together were written beautifully and I will never get tired of William saying "love" to Adam. Despite all of that, though, I was not convinced of their love for each other for a really long time.
I think part of it was William, whom I never really got to know, despite the book being from his perspective, and part of it was the incredibly slow pacing.
The story dragged at times and I found my attention wandering, started skimming some parts. It might just be me, because I can certainly see that if you are in the right mood for it, this style of pacing could definitely work for you.
There were also a ton of grammatical and editing errors, missing words and such, which pulled me out of the story at times.
Again, I liked the book just fine (and it was also a free read!), and if you are interested in this time in history, you should definitely check it out, you might get a kick out of it.
There was a lot of heart in this story and the author obviously knew her history; the whole book was well researched and very real, atmospheric and lively, the characters jumped right off the page. It also had a happy ending, without it turning into a cheesy mess.
I enjoyed the romance between Adam and William, but it was a little too slow for me. Yes, there was obvious sexual tension between them, and some of their scenes together were written beautifully and I will never get tired of William saying "love" to Adam. Despite all of that, though, I was not convinced of their love for each other for a really long time.
I think part of it was William, whom I never really got to know, despite the book being from his perspective, and part of it was the incredibly slow pacing.
The story dragged at times and I found my attention wandering, started skimming some parts. It might just be me, because I can certainly see that if you are in the right mood for it, this style of pacing could definitely work for you.
There were also a ton of grammatical and editing errors, missing words and such, which pulled me out of the story at times.
Again, I liked the book just fine (and it was also a free read!), and if you are interested in this time in history, you should definitely check it out, you might get a kick out of it.
September 23, 2012
I enjoyed reading about Adam and William.
Everything worked well in the story: the characters and their interactions, the setting in which they came together and the happy ending they earned.
Everything worked well in the story: the characters and their interactions, the setting in which they came together and the happy ending they earned.
April 7, 2013
I picked up this book because it looked like an interesting spy story. I wasn't familiar with the history behind it, and I didn't know about the male on male romance, at the time.
The premise was good, the pacing was good, and it was well written. The romance was an unexpected and interesting twist, which wasn't my cup of tea but didn't detract at all from the story.
But there's something I can't put my finger on about this book. It took me a long time to get through (over a month, in fact). It's true that I've had a very busy period over the past month, but that's no excuse. I've read other books over periods which have been just as busy, but I've always made or found time to read them. This one, not so much. In fact, from about halfway through I was forcing myself to read it and longing for it to be finished. Since it started so well, I'm giving it three stars, but it could've achieved the same goal in far fewer words, I think.
The premise was good, the pacing was good, and it was well written. The romance was an unexpected and interesting twist, which wasn't my cup of tea but didn't detract at all from the story.
But there's something I can't put my finger on about this book. It took me a long time to get through (over a month, in fact). It's true that I've had a very busy period over the past month, but that's no excuse. I've read other books over periods which have been just as busy, but I've always made or found time to read them. This one, not so much. In fact, from about halfway through I was forcing myself to read it and longing for it to be finished. Since it started so well, I'm giving it three stars, but it could've achieved the same goal in far fewer words, I think.
December 29, 2012
A thought-provoking MM romance set in the 1920s - at the start of the IRA conflict.
This is the story of WIlliam, an enigmatic Glaswegian turned spy for the British MI5 and Adam a charismatic younger man - member of the IRA. Their romance starts under the worst possible circumstance - whilst William is embedded in Adam's cell as a spy for an unscrupulous chief at the MI5. Even though it was obvious from the start that their relationship would have its challenges, it was still heartbreaking to witness.
The story takes a predictable side in the British vs Irish conflict, although neither Adam nor William come through unscathed...the author does not spare the characters. I found William difficult to understand and I think that was part of what had me guessing - until the very end - if WIlliam and Adam would make it.
This is the story of WIlliam, an enigmatic Glaswegian turned spy for the British MI5 and Adam a charismatic younger man - member of the IRA. Their romance starts under the worst possible circumstance - whilst William is embedded in Adam's cell as a spy for an unscrupulous chief at the MI5. Even though it was obvious from the start that their relationship would have its challenges, it was still heartbreaking to witness.
The story takes a predictable side in the British vs Irish conflict, although neither Adam nor William come through unscathed...the author does not spare the characters. I found William difficult to understand and I think that was part of what had me guessing - until the very end - if WIlliam and Adam would make it.
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