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My Temporary Life #2
My Name Is Hardly
Officially, the British government called it a state of unrest. In Northern Ireland, in 1996, they called it “The Troubles”.
Gerald “Hardly” McDougall is a forgotten man. He’s abused, bullied, and left behind. The only escape left is to join the British Army. At first, he’s a reluctant soldier and the Army doesn't know what to do with him. Everything changes when tensions in Northern Ireland escalate and the Army need a soldier with a particular set of characteristics. Hardly’s re-assigned and sent into the heart of the troubles, living in the same houses as the IRA soldiers he’s fighting against.
My Name Is Hardly is Book 2 in the My Temporary Life Trilogy. In this follow up to the Amazon #1 Bestseller, Martin Crosbie takes the reader on a twenty year journey through Hardly’s life--from the beginning, when he leaves Scotland and joins the Army, to the tragic final days when his time as a spy in Ireland has to come to an end.
Gerald “Hardly” McDougall is a forgotten man. He’s abused, bullied, and left behind. The only escape left is to join the British Army. At first, he’s a reluctant soldier and the Army doesn't know what to do with him. Everything changes when tensions in Northern Ireland escalate and the Army need a soldier with a particular set of characteristics. Hardly’s re-assigned and sent into the heart of the troubles, living in the same houses as the IRA soldiers he’s fighting against.
My Name Is Hardly is Book 2 in the My Temporary Life Trilogy. In this follow up to the Amazon #1 Bestseller, Martin Crosbie takes the reader on a twenty year journey through Hardly’s life--from the beginning, when he leaves Scotland and joins the Army, to the tragic final days when his time as a spy in Ireland has to come to an end.
249 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2012
90 people are currently reading
595 people want to read
About the author
Martin Crosbie
13 books365 followersIn a press release, Amazon called Martin Crosbie’s debut novel My Temporary Life one of their success stories. His self-publishing journey has been chronicled in Publisher's Weekly, Forbes, and Canada's Globe and Mail newspaper. Martin’s recent release The Dead List (A John Drake Mystery) was awarded a publishing contract by Kindle Press.
He’s also the author of My Name Is Hardly - Book Two of the My Temporary Life Trilogy, Lies I Never Told - A Collection of Short Stories, How I Sold 30,000 eBooks on Amazon's Kindle - An Easy-To-Follow Self-Publishing Guidebook, 2016 Edition, and Believing Again: A Tale Of Two Christmases.
Martin was born in the Highlands of Scotland and currently makes his home just outside Vancouver, on the west coast of Canada.
He’s also the author of My Name Is Hardly - Book Two of the My Temporary Life Trilogy, Lies I Never Told - A Collection of Short Stories, How I Sold 30,000 eBooks on Amazon's Kindle - An Easy-To-Follow Self-Publishing Guidebook, 2016 Edition, and Believing Again: A Tale Of Two Christmases.
Martin was born in the Highlands of Scotland and currently makes his home just outside Vancouver, on the west coast of Canada.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 42 reviews
June 26, 2013
This is a novel that I literally could not put down. If you've read Martin Crosbie's first novel "My Temporary Life", you've met him and come to know him. This gem of a novel tells of his life in the army during "The Troubles" in Northern Ireland. Hardly tells his story himself, which captured my attention and held it from the first page to the last. Having the main character tell the story difficult to do, and Martin Crosbie does it very, very well. I felt like I was right there with Hardly for the entire ride, experiencing what he was experiencing, thinking what he was thinking. it takes a very talented writer to accomplish what Martin Crosbie has accomplished in this fine novel, which left me with moist eyes more than a few times, and leaves me waiting for the third volume in this series to appear later this year. If you have trouble with the first-person style, stay with it and put yourself
in Hardly's head where you, too, will live his story first hand.
In my view, though each of the first two novels can be read as stand-alone novels, the three together make one long novel, much in the same way that Haruki Murakami's giant "1Q84" and Stieg Larsson's huge Millennium Trilogy do, both on my "favorite reads" list. Martin Crosbie's trilogy is right up there in my opinion.
in Hardly's head where you, too, will live his story first hand.
In my view, though each of the first two novels can be read as stand-alone novels, the three together make one long novel, much in the same way that Haruki Murakami's giant "1Q84" and Stieg Larsson's huge Millennium Trilogy do, both on my "favorite reads" list. Martin Crosbie's trilogy is right up there in my opinion.
August 30, 2022
The second book in this trilogy is equally as good as the first. This time around, we follow "Hardly" during his time in the military. Mr. Crosbie's writing style keeps you captivated. It is easy to become involved with his characters and I find myself looking forward to the moments when I can sit down and continue the story. His characters are imperfect people living in an imperfect world and it is easy to feel empathy for each of them. I just ordered the last of the three books and am sure it will be as good as the first two. Gem of a writer.
June 3, 2018
Hardly is an interesting character, and it was for his story that I continued reading this novel set in the 'troubles' of Northern Ireland. Hardly is resourceful, and flawed. He finds support and friendship in the toughest of situations. There were times when Martin Crosbie asked me suspend disbelief a little too much, but overall, the pages kept turning.
September 11, 2017
I read the second book quickly. It keeps you interested every step of Hardly's way. If you liked the first book, this one is just as great if not better and I look forward to the final chapter of the trilogy.
May 23, 2019
I forgot about this book for many months. It was a very different story from the first. Not better, not worse, but very different. I will say that it didn't draw me in like the first one. I feel compelled to read the third book but not highly motivated as this book was just, meh, for me.
December 20, 2017
An enthralling yarn that follows on seamlessly from the previous one.
April 8, 2019
Other reviewers have already said it. Excellent.
May 3, 2013
Martin Crosbie’s remarkable storytelling talent is apparent throughout his most recent novel, “My Name Is Hardly.” The story seized me from the first paragraph and held me relentlessly until I’d come to the novel’s thoughtful and moving conclusion.
The novel is a psychological study of a Scotsman who escapes a childhood of abuse by enlisting in the British army and, because he’s a “wee” man, is sent to Northern Ireland to sit for long periods in the cramped, dark attics of Irish Catholics. His job is to listen to conversations going on below, recording clues to upcoming bombings, for example, or to the identities of the “ringleaders’” of the underground, violent Irish-Catholic resistance.
I was surprised by how quickly this book enthralled me. For one thing, when I read about “the troubles,” I usually have the viewpoint of a person of Irish and Catholic heritage. I was astonished at how riveting I found a story told from the perspective of a soldier in the British army. I was also surprised because I generally don’t like books with military protagonists, mostly because I react negatively to violence and jingoism (and I find battles to be a real snooze on the page). But “My Name Is Hardly,” despite discussing the issue of violence – not in the military so much as in life – steered clear of gratuitous or graphic violence.
It’s worth noting, however, that probably because it’s self-published – and I’m not one to automatically dismiss today’s self-published novels –“My Name Is Hardly” wasn’t edited as painstakingly as it could have been. The copy is absolutely crazy with commas, for example, that are frequently placed where they aren’t needed or, sometimes, where they don’t even make sense.
Normally, this sort of thing really interferes with my ability to focus on the story (maybe because I’m an editor), but in this case I completely forgot to be annoyed about the commas after the first chapter or so, purely because the story was so riveting. I can’t overstate how rare that is for me. In fact, I don’t think any other writer has ever accomplished it. That the story flowed so effortlessly into my imagination, overwhelmed and captured my mind, and carried me from scene to scene as if I were actually present as events unfolded, is a telling indication of Crosbie’s profound gift for storytelling.
I highly recommend “My Name Is Hardly,” the second installment in Crosbie’s “My Temporary Life” trilogy. Those who haven’t yet read the trilogy’s first book don’t need to be concerned; “My Name is Hardly” stands perfectly well on its own.
The novel is a psychological study of a Scotsman who escapes a childhood of abuse by enlisting in the British army and, because he’s a “wee” man, is sent to Northern Ireland to sit for long periods in the cramped, dark attics of Irish Catholics. His job is to listen to conversations going on below, recording clues to upcoming bombings, for example, or to the identities of the “ringleaders’” of the underground, violent Irish-Catholic resistance.
I was surprised by how quickly this book enthralled me. For one thing, when I read about “the troubles,” I usually have the viewpoint of a person of Irish and Catholic heritage. I was astonished at how riveting I found a story told from the perspective of a soldier in the British army. I was also surprised because I generally don’t like books with military protagonists, mostly because I react negatively to violence and jingoism (and I find battles to be a real snooze on the page). But “My Name Is Hardly,” despite discussing the issue of violence – not in the military so much as in life – steered clear of gratuitous or graphic violence.
It’s worth noting, however, that probably because it’s self-published – and I’m not one to automatically dismiss today’s self-published novels –“My Name Is Hardly” wasn’t edited as painstakingly as it could have been. The copy is absolutely crazy with commas, for example, that are frequently placed where they aren’t needed or, sometimes, where they don’t even make sense.
Normally, this sort of thing really interferes with my ability to focus on the story (maybe because I’m an editor), but in this case I completely forgot to be annoyed about the commas after the first chapter or so, purely because the story was so riveting. I can’t overstate how rare that is for me. In fact, I don’t think any other writer has ever accomplished it. That the story flowed so effortlessly into my imagination, overwhelmed and captured my mind, and carried me from scene to scene as if I were actually present as events unfolded, is a telling indication of Crosbie’s profound gift for storytelling.
I highly recommend “My Name Is Hardly,” the second installment in Crosbie’s “My Temporary Life” trilogy. Those who haven’t yet read the trilogy’s first book don’t need to be concerned; “My Name is Hardly” stands perfectly well on its own.
January 23, 2013
There are different types of strength.
I came to this book via its subject matter, rather than from the 1st in Crosbie’s trilogy, and read it as a standalone novel. I will, of course, now go back and read My Temporary Life to fill in the background but if coming of age tales don’t work for you, read My Name is Hardly first...to be introduced to these magnificent, quietly sturdy lives.
I have some tangential connections with The Troubles. Although I am not Irish and was never in Ireland or the army I have worked around people who have and I was drawn to this meticulously researched tale of little-talked about aspects of the times. Amid personal pain and growth, memories and powerful relationships, this book conveys the baffled doggedness of outsiders to the bitter divide. As Hardly and co get on with the job, accepting that the fear, violence and control are someone else’s normal, to be taken all in a day’s work rather than understood and engaged with, we all learn a little about the world’s pain. There are things about people and their choices that just are, sometimes all outsiders can do is their best. We learn and grow with Hardly as he comes to terms with his past, accepts responsibility for change, and ultimately triumphs more over himself than the IRA.
I was fascinated from page one, with characters who forced me to care despite their failings. The army provides a surrogate family for so many lost youngsters and this little ‘family’ suffered and laughed and grew as I read. The book ends satisfactorily enough for the last page of an episode, but it leaves a few questions open. I am glad that I care enough about them all to read more.
I came to this book via its subject matter, rather than from the 1st in Crosbie’s trilogy, and read it as a standalone novel. I will, of course, now go back and read My Temporary Life to fill in the background but if coming of age tales don’t work for you, read My Name is Hardly first...to be introduced to these magnificent, quietly sturdy lives.
I have some tangential connections with The Troubles. Although I am not Irish and was never in Ireland or the army I have worked around people who have and I was drawn to this meticulously researched tale of little-talked about aspects of the times. Amid personal pain and growth, memories and powerful relationships, this book conveys the baffled doggedness of outsiders to the bitter divide. As Hardly and co get on with the job, accepting that the fear, violence and control are someone else’s normal, to be taken all in a day’s work rather than understood and engaged with, we all learn a little about the world’s pain. There are things about people and their choices that just are, sometimes all outsiders can do is their best. We learn and grow with Hardly as he comes to terms with his past, accepts responsibility for change, and ultimately triumphs more over himself than the IRA.
I was fascinated from page one, with characters who forced me to care despite their failings. The army provides a surrogate family for so many lost youngsters and this little ‘family’ suffered and laughed and grew as I read. The book ends satisfactorily enough for the last page of an episode, but it leaves a few questions open. I am glad that I care enough about them all to read more.
January 21, 2013
In a less dysfunctional publishing industry, this novel and its predecessor, My Temporary Life, would have gone out to wide acclaim and Martin Crosbie would be counting laurels for his highly original takes on The Troubles in Ireland. Fortunately for us, Crosbie had the stones to take his work the indie route, and we are better off for it.
Where My Temporary Life centered on Scots-born Malcolm and his divided, rootless life, this sequel focuses on his friend Hardly, with a plot that turns on a little-known (to me, anyway) British army practice called "loft sitting," in which hidden soldiers would eavesdrop on Irish households in the hope of gleaning information about the IRA.
Both My Temporary Life and My Name Is Hardly combine elements of the Bildungsroman, romance, and thriller. Crosbie's authority as a writer announces itself from the very first sentence, along with deep sympathy for his displaced characters, caught between cultures and living as internal exiles looking for a place of comfort. My Name Is Hardly is presented as the middle novel of a trilogy. I have no doubt that when the last piece is in place, Crosbie's work will stand tall as exemplary literary fiction, and a reproach to those who mourn the decline of the "gatekeepers" of commercial publishing. Any gate too small to let in Martin Crosbie should have been blown up a long time ago.
April 24, 2013
My Name is Hardly is a story told with guts and true life emotion. I felt like a fly on the wall as some of the scenes played out. There is an honesty that comes across. The sadness, happy moments, torture, and heartbreak felt authentic. I don't know how words can be written in this manner without it coming from somewhere deep in one's soul. This story is painfully sad and at the same time, beautiful. There are moments that I will cherish long after this book has been read. The writing is sharp, human, and heartfelt. The camaraderie and loyalty between the main characters are striking and touched me in such a way that I can't describe. It is all about the brief shining moments and little victories. That is the beauty that exists between these characters.
The story of Hardly has many layers and I am ever so grateful Mr. Crosbie was ambitious enough to bring this character to life. Now I can only wait and look forward to the third book in the series.
"I let out a little half-laugh and looked up at him for a moment. Yes, I wanted to stop. I didn't want to pour booze into myself all the time, but how do you do that. How do you be twenty-one years old and not drink? How do you be in the army and have mates and not drink? How do you sleep at night without thinking about things that happened to you when you were a little lad and not drink? How do you breathe without knowing there's a pint waiting for you at the end of the day, no matter how bad things get?"
The story of Hardly has many layers and I am ever so grateful Mr. Crosbie was ambitious enough to bring this character to life. Now I can only wait and look forward to the third book in the series.
"I let out a little half-laugh and looked up at him for a moment. Yes, I wanted to stop. I didn't want to pour booze into myself all the time, but how do you do that. How do you be twenty-one years old and not drink? How do you be in the army and have mates and not drink? How do you sleep at night without thinking about things that happened to you when you were a little lad and not drink? How do you breathe without knowing there's a pint waiting for you at the end of the day, no matter how bad things get?"
February 28, 2014
I purchased this book at the suggestion of a friend, not knowing if I could get into it. To my delight, I was hooked from the very first chapter. Although this is not my normal genre, I quickly became engrossed in the story and wanted to know more about Hardly, his mates and his life.
The story of Hardly is set in the time of the "The Troubles" in the mid 1990's in Northern Ireland. After a painful and abuse-filled childhood, Hardly enlists in the British Army and is stationed in Ireland as a loft-sitter with a few of his fellow Scotsmen.
Hardly is not the normal, larger-than-life hero that one expects, but a normal, average guy that is just trying to get through life. He is of shorter stature, which makes him perfect for the role of a loft-sitter. From this premise, the story unfolds with page after page of riveting narrative and dialog which keeps the reader turning the page to see what happens next. From Hardly's childhood through his military career and to ultimately searching for his friend's sister behind enemy lines, this story will keep you on the edge of your seat.
The characters are well-developed and the writing/grammar is top-notch. Although this is a work of fiction, the historical accuracy is also another item that gives this book a solid 5-stars.
If you have not read the first book in this series, have no fear. "My Name is Hardly" is perfectly written as a stand alone book and one that you will be sure to enjoy.
The story of Hardly is set in the time of the "The Troubles" in the mid 1990's in Northern Ireland. After a painful and abuse-filled childhood, Hardly enlists in the British Army and is stationed in Ireland as a loft-sitter with a few of his fellow Scotsmen.
Hardly is not the normal, larger-than-life hero that one expects, but a normal, average guy that is just trying to get through life. He is of shorter stature, which makes him perfect for the role of a loft-sitter. From this premise, the story unfolds with page after page of riveting narrative and dialog which keeps the reader turning the page to see what happens next. From Hardly's childhood through his military career and to ultimately searching for his friend's sister behind enemy lines, this story will keep you on the edge of your seat.
The characters are well-developed and the writing/grammar is top-notch. Although this is a work of fiction, the historical accuracy is also another item that gives this book a solid 5-stars.
If you have not read the first book in this series, have no fear. "My Name is Hardly" is perfectly written as a stand alone book and one that you will be sure to enjoy.
September 24, 2013
Living situations defined Hardly’s life. First the couple who gave him life but should never have been parents; then the Father of his best friend who took him in; and finally the Commanding Officer who provided him with his first father-figure. This tiny Scot was fortunate in having a CO who guided him not by meting out punishment for his misdeeds but in leading him toward better choices first away from a life of alcoholism and then with the support of his Scottish buddies to a purpose in life in the attics of Ireland and later as a Lance Corporal in charge of training in Britain. This book is not so much about army life as its affect upon the men who populate its ranks. Hardly whether he knows it or not should be eternally grateful for having had a CO who for whatever reason took a liking to him and ensured his confidence in himself was built, the he remained the ranking officer in his enterprises, and received assignments he could handle. This book is rare in giving a positive outlook on a grunts eye view of the army.
Like so many books I’ve read lately the story does not unfold in a linear fashion but jumps ahead and gives us background through lengthy flashbacks. Although the “Troubles” in Northern Island figure here it is the inner turmoil these characters experience that is paramount.
Like so many books I’ve read lately the story does not unfold in a linear fashion but jumps ahead and gives us background through lengthy flashbacks. Although the “Troubles” in Northern Island figure here it is the inner turmoil these characters experience that is paramount.
November 22, 2013
I was immediately pulled into this novel by the way it started, setting me down in the middle of a situation for the narrator and then gradually learning more about how he came to be in such a moment, and how and why he responds as he does, as the book progresses. I had no background knowledge, even of the most basic plot points or the book's topic, before I began the work, and that made learning as I went along all the more edifying.
I came to strongly identify with and care about the narrator, a short little Scot (yes, his name is Hardly) serving in the British Army over in Northern Ireland during the Troubles. Hardly is one of those narrators who can say a lot even while saying a little; I really want to commend Crosbie for the manner in which he aroused growing empathy and concern in the reader.
I learned at the end this is the second book in a series of three where repeating characters interact and relate across time. Though this novel has merit and can easily stand alone, one might get even deeper appreciation for the universal aspects of the human condition by reading all three. I just might do that!
I came to strongly identify with and care about the narrator, a short little Scot (yes, his name is Hardly) serving in the British Army over in Northern Ireland during the Troubles. Hardly is one of those narrators who can say a lot even while saying a little; I really want to commend Crosbie for the manner in which he aroused growing empathy and concern in the reader.
I learned at the end this is the second book in a series of three where repeating characters interact and relate across time. Though this novel has merit and can easily stand alone, one might get even deeper appreciation for the universal aspects of the human condition by reading all three. I just might do that!
June 26, 2014
Great book about a little known and quite effective intelligence-gathering technique used by the British Army against the IRA...well, not really: it's the story of Hardly McDougall, a survivor of a terribly abusive childhood who finds a home in the British Army, which is a universal theme. Lots of us found homes, and family, in the military, and I was drawn to McDougall for that very reason. Well written and quite hair-raising, this was a great read. If I have a nit, it was the repetition of some inner dialogue and thoughts, primarily, I suspect, to make this a longer book. But s'kay, was still enjoyable.
Now I want to read My Temporary Life, which looks like a story about Hardly's childhood friend, Malcolm Wilson, who pops up quite frequently in this novel. That's the thing about great characters: you want to read more about them. Good job, Mr. Crosbie.
Now I want to read My Temporary Life, which looks like a story about Hardly's childhood friend, Malcolm Wilson, who pops up quite frequently in this novel. That's the thing about great characters: you want to read more about them. Good job, Mr. Crosbie.
February 21, 2016
After reading the first book in Martin Crosbie's trilogy, I was so taken by the characters of Malcolm and Hardly that I had to plough straight into this one. I wasn't disappointed. In fact I think I slightly prefer this book over Malcolm's story. I was a little worried how Hardly's character would be portrayed - in the first novel he didn't seem to have any redeeming features. An alcoholic at the age of 11, with an abusive home life, he was a sorry character. In this book he is still Hardly, warts and all, but grown up, determined, and loyal. The story had me gripped from the start and even though I knew the general outcome from reading My Temporary Life I was still on tenterhooks - I was almost up in that stuffy, claustrophobic loft myself!
If you haven't read the first book I'd read that first, as there is a slight spoiler towards the end of this one with regards to Malcolm's story, otherwise you could read this as a stand alone book. I'm just eagerly awaiting the final part of the trilogy. Hurry up and finish it please Mr Crosbie!!
If you haven't read the first book I'd read that first, as there is a slight spoiler towards the end of this one with regards to Malcolm's story, otherwise you could read this as a stand alone book. I'm just eagerly awaiting the final part of the trilogy. Hurry up and finish it please Mr Crosbie!!
January 5, 2017
I loved the first book in this trilogy (My Temporary Life) and like many others, wanted to know more about the protag's friend, who's named Hardly. This book thoroughly satisfies that longing because the author, through Hardly's first-person pov, is so honest. He doesn't lie to us (or himself) and keeps nothing from us as to the content of his soul. Hardly, like Malcolm in the first book, becomes a "real" person in your mind, one that you'll think about for the rest of your life. So, why four stars and not five, like I gave the first volume? I simply would have preferred more story and less back story. At times I wondered if anything was going to "happen." I realize the author isn't writing genre fiction. To give us this particular character as a fully-fleshed being, the character needed to do a great deal of reminiscing. I just felt it was too much, and I could certainly be in the minority on this. Above all, though, I love this book and am so glad Crosbie wrote it for us! Now I'll be impatiently waiting for the final volume!
October 22, 2013
I totally enjoyed this book. It was difficult to put down and I read it in less than a week, I think. It's about a petite Scottish guy who has been bullied by schoolmates and beaten by his alcoholic parents. So he joins the British Army and gets sent to Ireland during "the troubles" there. The writing is very good for a new author--this is his second book, I think. I was drawn in emotionally which I love. It is a story of male friendship and loyalty. There are several very tense situations. Since I had never read anything as yet about the Protestant/Catholic conflict in Ireland, I found this interesting. It was more about the characters, though, than the history, but I got my feet wet with this story. I'm now a fan of Martin Crosbie's writing and immediately started reading the first book in this trilogy: My Temporary Life.
January 31, 2015
This was an excellent book. It takes place in Ireland during the "troubles" between the English and the IRA. Gerald "Hardly" McDougall hides in lofts in Ireland gathering intelligence for the British Army. The book begins with him in one such loft trying to survive the night as IRA soldiers are outside the house. As the night drags on the author does a wonderful job of building the tension as Hardly and his loft companion, Walter, wait to see if the IRA men attack. In flashbacks you learn about Hardly's past. We learn about his childhood friend Malcom, his armies buddies Dougie and Larry, and Malcolm's sister Flora. About halfway through the book the action picks ups and the pace becomes much faster. I couldn't put it down at this point. I will definitely be checking out the other two books in this trilogy.
October 12, 2015
Well, I must admit that I started to read this some time ago but couldn't get passed the first chapter. I am claustrophobic. The first chapter deals mostly with 2 men in a small attic, and anxieties forced me to put the book away.
I have since read a collection of short stories by Martin Crosbie, and this included the first chapter or so of the book that preceded this one, "My Temporary Life." I was enamored by Mr Crosbie's style of writing, so I decided to give "My Name is Hardly" one more chance—and I am so glad I did!
This is a Coming of Age novel of sorts, but the main character is already a young man. Hardly is a broken young man, a loner, a man without dreams. As he is "growing up," the author weaves in suspense, humor, and strengthening bonds of friendships and love. I enjoyed reading it so much, and now I am looking forward to reading "My Temporary Life."
I have since read a collection of short stories by Martin Crosbie, and this included the first chapter or so of the book that preceded this one, "My Temporary Life." I was enamored by Mr Crosbie's style of writing, so I decided to give "My Name is Hardly" one more chance—and I am so glad I did!
This is a Coming of Age novel of sorts, but the main character is already a young man. Hardly is a broken young man, a loner, a man without dreams. As he is "growing up," the author weaves in suspense, humor, and strengthening bonds of friendships and love. I enjoyed reading it so much, and now I am looking forward to reading "My Temporary Life."
October 9, 2014
What a great book. I was totally sucked in. Hardly was a really believable character. I felt like I could Google him and learn more about him. I wanted to punch his horrible patents and hug his commander. I felt cramped for him as he hung out in the loft. I was freaked out while he was crawling through the dog door (that husband was a real piece of work being only concerned for his animals!!). I can't believe his friend was killed. I laughed at the Bed and Breakfast lady who had the hots for Dougie. I'm so glad he found the girl after going thru so much. It was a truly happy ending. I feel like I have a brighter outlook on my life after finishing this book. Good job Martin Crosbie!!
September 3, 2013
Very engaging in the first half. The characterizations are vivid, the situations convincing. And then it falls down, unable to rise from the fumbling premise Crosbie forces upon it. Here, the conflicts are contrived, the events implausible, and the sudden shift in tone and theme far removed from what began as an original character study.
Downloaded as a free Kindle offering from Amazon and significantly better than any other title obtained in the same way. As such, it was worth every penny.
Downloaded as a free Kindle offering from Amazon and significantly better than any other title obtained in the same way. As such, it was worth every penny.
November 6, 2016
Another excellent story by Martin Crosbie
If you enjoyed the first book of the authors "My Temporary Life Trilogy," then you will also love this tale.
"My Name is Hardly" is the story of the "Wee Scot" Gerald, nicknamed Hardly. It's about abuse in his younger years, hardships and getting away from it all. But it's also about love, values, and friendship.
You will have a hard time putting this book down.
If you enjoyed the first book of the authors "My Temporary Life Trilogy," then you will also love this tale.
"My Name is Hardly" is the story of the "Wee Scot" Gerald, nicknamed Hardly. It's about abuse in his younger years, hardships and getting away from it all. But it's also about love, values, and friendship.
You will have a hard time putting this book down.
August 23, 2013
This is the best piece of fiction writing I've read this year. Though it is the second book of a trilogy, I read it as a stand-alone novel and it worked just fine. Now I'm eager to read book one. Book three is not yet published. Take your time, Mr. Crosbie. Don't sacrifice your writing nor story for speed. We'll wait.
August 5, 2015
3.5 stars and certainly worth the price (Kindle freebie). As I was reading Hardly relating experiences of his youth, I thought, "I remember this; I must have seen something on TV." But, no. I had read the first book in the series, My Temporary Life, last year and incidents were so well described I remembered them as if I'd seen them!
November 7, 2014
It took me a little bit to get into this book and follow the jumps between past and present, but once I was in, I didn't want to put it down. At first I was a bit disappointed in the ending, but now that I've had a few hours to consider it, it makes sense and has a handful of possible explanations. I want to read the first book now that I've met Hardly.
September 4, 2014
Truly a genuinely good read.
I loved reading this book, I gave it 5 stars because it was beyond interesting,
it was a page~turner and I couldn't wait to finish it. I love Alex, Malcolm, & Hardly and I'm off to read the 3rd book.
I loved reading this book, I gave it 5 stars because it was beyond interesting,
it was a page~turner and I couldn't wait to finish it. I love Alex, Malcolm, & Hardly and I'm off to read the 3rd book.
October 25, 2014
This a great read. I couldn't put it down. It is an inside look at the Troubles, and clearer picture of just what they are about. Ireland and her people, both Catholic and Protestant have suffered too much.
November 23, 2014
Another compelling one
I really enjoyed how he weaved the first book lightly in and out of the story. He does a great job of pulling you into the character's lives. I'm very glad I've stumbled across these books......kudos..... now the third?
Dan S.
I really enjoyed how he weaved the first book lightly in and out of the story. He does a great job of pulling you into the character's lives. I'm very glad I've stumbled across these books......kudos..... now the third?
Dan S.
June 11, 2016
Apparently the second book in a trilogy, this story follows Hardly, a soldier who needs to avenge his partner's death and find his sister. While there is not a whole lot of story or complexity, the portrayal of being in Ireland, the stress of being a soldier there is well done.
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