A Song of Bullets

by Lizzy Shannon

A powerful psychological thriller by Belfast born Lizzy Shannon, who grew up during the worst of ‘The Troubles’ in the 70s. A terrorist bomb sets off a chain reaction in musician Jennifer Hamilton's life, causing destruction, betrayal, and vengeance. She enters the Belfast music scene to infiltrate the IRA. A unique point of view, based on a true story. Recruited by one side to spy on the other; which will she ultimately choose?

329 pages, ebook

Published November 3, 2016

About the author

Lizzy Shannon was born and bred in Northern Ireland, now lives at the End of the Oregon Trail, and collects air miles so she doesn't have to return by covered wagon.

A bestselling author and editor, her published works span many genres, including science fiction, Celtic nonfiction, fantasy, screenplays, and stageplays. Lizzy's latest novel is set amidst the worst era of Northern Ireland's 'Troubles' in the 70's, and based on true events in her life. The screenplay version was optioned in Hollywood, and recently reached the Second Rounder category in the Austin Film Festival.

She is also working on a screenplay about her Great-Uncle Earnán de Blaghd. A fascinating insight into one of the few Ulster Protestants who joined the Irish Volunteers and played an active role in planning the Uprising of 1916. He is remembered as a survivor of the rebellion, key in the creation of the Free State, and a member of the Dáil Éireann parliament.

Further details are available on her website: my link text

Reviews

[Barbara J Wicks · Rating 5 out of 5]

Keeps you interested to the last page.

Well described characters both good and bad. I also enjoyed the information on Belfast and the surrounding area. Brought back memories of my trip around all of Ireland.

[Leigh Goodison · Rating 5 out of 5]

A terrific novel about an ongoing conflict that most of the world knows little about. The story is told with authenticity, humor, and spunk. Recommended reading.

[Liz · Rating 3 out of 5]

When I started this book I was not sure if it was going to be chick-lit (nothing wrong with that) or not.
soon I was engrossed into the world of living in Northern Ireland during "the Troubles ".

Being brought up in England I was shielded from the enormity that 2 denominations of one belief can have.

in NI why could a Protestant not be pro RA and why should a Catholic not be pro UK?

This story takes you into the gritty world of working for an RA boss (whether you know it or not). Jen has so much strength in her wish to get back at those that killed her parents that she can seem to endure all the tortuous events thrown at her. Sometimes you see the actions of a more mature person, but mainly you see her acting as you would expect someone of her age to behave - infatuated with Sean, trying to get back at Mike, and rebellious when she has done something wrong.

I would recommend this book, but be aware of language content.

[Gina Schwartz · Rating 3 out of 5]

An exciting story. Well paced and written.

[Thomas Nichols · Rating 5 out of 5]

I've always been curious about Northern Ireland's conflict. This book finally helped me understand. Written with wit and humor, it tells a vivid story of ordinary people caught up in extraordinary circumstances. From paragraph one I rooted for Jen, the main character, as blood-chilling betrayal and destruction forces her from a youthful, naive musician into a ruthless undercover operative, doing whatever it takes to enact revenge and ultimately redemption. The story admirably balances both sides of the conflict and has a good mix of male and female characters with appeal for all those interested in military and warfare, historical fiction, espionage and terrorism, light romance, sexual identity, and r-rated sex and violence. A refreshing spin on the usual IRA tale - highly recommended reading.