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The Killing of The Reavey Brothers: British Murder and Cover-Up in Northern Ireland
In this gripping memoir, Eugene Reavey takes readers on a harrowing journey through the darkest chapter of his life during the Northern Ireland Troubles. Reavey relives the tragic night in 1976 when his three brothers—John Martin, Anthony, and Brian—were brutally murdered in their family home in Whitecross, South Armagh.
As Reavey grapples with profound loss and an unrelenting quest for justice, he uncovers a web of treachery and collusion that shakes the very foundations of Northern Ireland's past. Through meticulous research and firsthand testimony, Reavey exposes the alarming truths behind the covert protection afforded to the notorious Glenanne Gang, a loyalist paramilitary group, by key institutions. He navigates a sinister labyrinth of threats and schemes orchestrated by the feared Ulster Defence Association (UDA) enforcer, Jimmy Craig, and confronts the shocking false allegations made by Democratic Unionist Party (DUP) Leader Ian Paisley in the House of Commons, which were challenged but never retracted.
Perhaps the most chilling revelation is the Reavey family's accidental discovery of a staggering 84-year embargo on the release of crucial British files related to the murders. This startling find raises the why the silence?
Reavey's compelling narrative captures the intrigue, drama, and profound human cost of the Troubles. It serves as a powerful testament to the lengths people will go to uncover the truth and the devastating impact of sectarian violence on families and communities. It is a searing chronicle of a society fractured by conflict and a family's unwavering determination to find answers in the face of unimaginable tragedy.
This book is a must-read for readers of true crime, Northern Ireland history and stories of injustice and resilience. It is also perfect for fans of Patrick Radden Keefe's 'Say Nothing', Henry Hemmings 'Four Shots in the Night', and similar works that explore the human impact of The Troubles.
As Reavey grapples with profound loss and an unrelenting quest for justice, he uncovers a web of treachery and collusion that shakes the very foundations of Northern Ireland's past. Through meticulous research and firsthand testimony, Reavey exposes the alarming truths behind the covert protection afforded to the notorious Glenanne Gang, a loyalist paramilitary group, by key institutions. He navigates a sinister labyrinth of threats and schemes orchestrated by the feared Ulster Defence Association (UDA) enforcer, Jimmy Craig, and confronts the shocking false allegations made by Democratic Unionist Party (DUP) Leader Ian Paisley in the House of Commons, which were challenged but never retracted.
Perhaps the most chilling revelation is the Reavey family's accidental discovery of a staggering 84-year embargo on the release of crucial British files related to the murders. This startling find raises the why the silence?
Reavey's compelling narrative captures the intrigue, drama, and profound human cost of the Troubles. It serves as a powerful testament to the lengths people will go to uncover the truth and the devastating impact of sectarian violence on families and communities. It is a searing chronicle of a society fractured by conflict and a family's unwavering determination to find answers in the face of unimaginable tragedy.
This book is a must-read for readers of true crime, Northern Ireland history and stories of injustice and resilience. It is also perfect for fans of Patrick Radden Keefe's 'Say Nothing', Henry Hemmings 'Four Shots in the Night', and similar works that explore the human impact of The Troubles.
864 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 1, 2025
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Displaying 1 - 5 of 5 reviews
August 10, 2025
A shocking - but incredible - read. This book falls right into my genre - but it’s by far one of the most captivating reads. Thank you, Eugene, for telling your family’s story.
September 20, 2025
The Killing of the Reavey Brothers: British Murder and Cover-Up in Northern Ireland is a powerful and deeply moving account of one of the darkest chapters in the Troubles. Eugene Reavey, alongside journalist Ken Murray, tells the story of the brutal murder of his three brothers and the decades-long fight to uncover the truth behind it. The book delves into the political and social landscape of Northern Ireland at the time, shedding light on state collusion, systemic failures, and the heavy price ordinary families paid for sectarian conflict.
What stands out most is the fairness in the telling. In a region where narratives often become one-sided—Catholic versus Protestant, victim versus perpetrator—this book resists oversimplification. Instead, it presents a balanced, human perspective that highlights the injustices without slipping into bitterness or bias. It’s both a personal family testimony and a broader historical document.
The writing is clear, the pacing steady, and the emotional weight undeniable. This is not just a story of tragedy, but also of resilience, dignity, and the pursuit of justice. A must-read for anyone seeking to understand the complexities of the Troubles and the human stories that lie at their heart.
What stands out most is the fairness in the telling. In a region where narratives often become one-sided—Catholic versus Protestant, victim versus perpetrator—this book resists oversimplification. Instead, it presents a balanced, human perspective that highlights the injustices without slipping into bitterness or bias. It’s both a personal family testimony and a broader historical document.
The writing is clear, the pacing steady, and the emotional weight undeniable. This is not just a story of tragedy, but also of resilience, dignity, and the pursuit of justice. A must-read for anyone seeking to understand the complexities of the Troubles and the human stories that lie at their heart.
June 3, 2026
What a phenomenal book. Eugene Reavey and Mr Murray tell a story of brutal hardship that a family and people faced for decades. They tell of the struggles faced by both Catholics and Protestants, who the British government / security services played them off against one another. I found Eugene’s parents to be an example for all, love, kindness, forgiveness and an inner strength found because of their faith. As a 2 time visitor to Ireland I find the people wonderful and if I make it there again I’ll have to look up the Reavey’s in Armagh county as I’m one myself. Thanks for an amazing story Eugene. The world needs more individuals like you.
September 18, 2026
Fantastic read! I've the utmost admiration for Eugene Reavey and his unwavering determination in pursuing the truth. The British have a lot to answer for given the collusion and suspicious circumstances that surround the murder of his three brothers. The Bristish government continue to refuse releasing the files on this case after numerous inquiries, i wonder why? A well written and nicely paced story with plenty of twists and turns along the way that makes for great reading. Best book I've read this year!
July 24, 2026
A harrowing story of a family's struggle in North of Ireland during the troubles. Despite having been born and raised in thr North of Ireland and baring witness to the troubles, the hardships were tenfold only a county or two away. Very well written and may the fight for justice continue!
Displaying 1 - 5 of 5 reviews