Described by one reviewer as "bloody accurate", The Nationalists is an Irish story set against the bloody backdrop of the 1916 Easter Rising, the War of Independence and the Irish Civil War. From the author of The Scribe, The Soaring Spirit, Kolbe, and Land of Our Father comes a sweeping new novel that spans the turbulent years in Irish history - 1916 to 1923. The 1916 Easter Rising wasn't just a military rising, but a cultural revolution too. The Nationalists tells the story of a doomed love affair between a revolutionary journalist and a headstrong Kerry born Cumann na mBan girl. The story also explores how the catholic church viewed the events of the day. Interweaving both factual and fictional characters, the story follows an eccentric array of characters. The Nationalists is the first book of a planned trilogy. A powerful tale of rebellion, love, redemption and loss.
Liam Robert Mullen: The Irish Self-Published Author Writing Across History, Crime and Adventure In today’s publishing world, independent authors are proving that great storytelling doesn’t have to come from traditional publishing houses. One writer who has quietly built an impressive catalogue is Liam Robert Mullen, an Irish author whose books span historical fiction, crime thrillers, military adventures, spirituality, and contemporary fiction. By self-publishing through Amazon, Mullen has created a diverse collection of novels that appeal to readers looking for original stories beyond the mainstream. Who is Liam Robert Mullen? Liam Robert Mullen is an Irish writer living in County Wexford. Originally from Dublin, he has written dozens of novels and novellas across multiple genres, refusing to be confined to a single style. His background in government, transport, telecommunications, and tourism has influenced many of his stories, while his passion for history is reflected throughout much of his work. Unlike many authors who focus on one niche, Mullen embraces variety. Whether readers enjoy historical epics, detective fiction, military thrillers, or religious fiction, there is likely a Liam Robert Mullen book that fits their interests. A Self-Published Success Story on Amazon Self-publishing has transformed the publishing industry, giving writers complete creative freedom. Liam Robert Mullen has taken full advantage of this opportunity by independently publishing his books through Amazon. This independence allows him to explore ambitious subjects without the restrictions often associated with traditional publishing. His work ranges from ancient Rome and biblical history to Irish independence, police investigations, espionage, and international thrillers. Historical Fiction That Brings the Past to Life One of Mullen’s greatest strengths is historical fiction. His novel The Nationalists explores Ireland’s revolutionary period, covering the Easter Rising, the War of Independence, and the Civil War through both fictional and historical characters. The novel blends romance, politics, and conflict into an engaging narrative that captures one of the most important periods in Irish history. The National Library of Ireland has also catalogued it as an independently published work. Another standout title is The Scribe, which follows the life of Luke the Evangelist while exploring the political and religious world surrounding early Christianity. The novel received positive attention for its detailed historical setting and thoughtful portrayal of biblical figures. Exploring Multiple Genres One reason readers continue discovering Liam Robert Mullen is his willingness to experiment. His catalogue includes: • Historical fiction • Crime and detective novels • Military thrillers • Political thrillers • Adventure fiction • Spiritual and biblical fiction • Mystery series • Young adult fantasy Popular titles include Orphans, Pacific Deeps, Atlantic Deeps, Mano, Belfast, King Brian, Exile, and many others, demonstrating remarkable productivity and creativity. Why Readers Enjoy Liam Robert Mullen’s Books Many readers appreciate authors who consistently produce fresh ideas rather than repeating the same formula. Mullen’s novels often feature: • Strong historical research • Fast-paced storytelling • Irish themes and settings • International adventures • Moral dilemmas • Memorable characters • A willingness to tackle different genres His books appeal to readers who enjoy discovering independent authors with ambitious storytelling and broad literary interests. Supporting Independent Authors Choosing a self-published author means supporting creativity outside the traditional publishing industry. Writers like Liam Robert Mullen demonstrate that compelling stories can come directly from independent voices. With an expanding bibliography available through Amazon, readers can explore everything from Irish history and wart
A great cast of characters real and created by the author. It paints a very grim but realistic picture of this chapter in Irish history and their determination to throw off 800 years of brutal British subjugation. The struggle against the British was very real and well documented by Mullen as was the Civil War that followed. It's graphic, tragically raw, yet so very poignant in places. What happens to the two brothers is utterly heart wrenching.
The narrative didn't always flow seamlessly and I found myself re-listening in several places while also actively checking things out on Google -- wanting further information on some of the key historical players.
O'Brien was good although I sometimes had trouble distinguishing which person was speaking unless identified in the narrative. I liked it and would be interested to see where the author intends to take things, as this is only Book 1.
I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review.
This tale of the Easter Rising and beyond comes at the story from varied viewpoints. I'm still not sure how I feel about that, however, the story is the richer for it. Do not expect a happy ending from this one. Which is a way is to be expected as those were horrid times. Hard times for all involved. The settlement crafted is still in effect today and many in Ireland would still like to see the north returned to the fold. This will give you a look at what happened and why.
1916. The GOP. Dublin. Black and Tans. MIchael Collins. Sinn Fein. The IRB. Kilmainham Gaol. If you love Irish history, this is a fantastic book. If you having no working knowledge of this country or the origins of a free and independent Ireland, you will gain some knowledge even though this is a work of fiction. For those interested, I am more likely to recommend Trinity by Leon Uris. For those that have already read Trinity, I would recommend this book. I think upper grades high school, college students, and adults would enjoy this book if interested in this time period/historical events with a little romance on the side.