What do you think?
Rate this book
Stones Corner #1
Turmoil
Set in Derry in 1972, Stones Corner: Turmoil—an Indie Award Winner—brings to life one of the darkest and most turbulent periods in Northern Ireland's history.
Caitlin McLaughlin is a young woman navigating the everyday trials of teenage life amidst the chaos of The Troubles. By day, she works at the Rocola shirt factory in Stones Corner, Creggan, drawn to her enigmatic and charming boss’s nephew, James. By night, she dreams of love and escape, but in a city under siege, even the simplest acts—a trip to the shops or a quiet evening at home—can turn deadly. British soldiers raid homes with brutal force, and danger lies around every corner.
Private Robert Sallis of the Royal Fusiliers arrives in Derry already disillusioned by the conflict. Haunted by the violence of his fellow soldiers and the unyielding hostility of the locals, he feels increasingly torn. When he becomes separated from his patrol and hides in Caitlin’s garden, an extraordinary moment unfolds: Caitlin, weary of the relentless violence, chooses compassion over fear and helps him instead of turning him in.
But in a city divided by conflict, nothing is simple. Caitlin’s growing affection for James pulls her into a forbidden love strained by religious and social divides. Meanwhile, Robert, now entangled in a shadowy British undercover operation, finds himself at the centre of a mission to thwart a catastrophic terrorist plot.
Stones Corner: Turmoil is a gripping tale of love, survival, and the choices that define us, set against the backdrop of a city where every decision carries life-or-death consequences. It is a powerful reminder of the resilience of the human spirit in the face of unimaginable turmoil.
Caitlin McLaughlin is a young woman navigating the everyday trials of teenage life amidst the chaos of The Troubles. By day, she works at the Rocola shirt factory in Stones Corner, Creggan, drawn to her enigmatic and charming boss’s nephew, James. By night, she dreams of love and escape, but in a city under siege, even the simplest acts—a trip to the shops or a quiet evening at home—can turn deadly. British soldiers raid homes with brutal force, and danger lies around every corner.
Private Robert Sallis of the Royal Fusiliers arrives in Derry already disillusioned by the conflict. Haunted by the violence of his fellow soldiers and the unyielding hostility of the locals, he feels increasingly torn. When he becomes separated from his patrol and hides in Caitlin’s garden, an extraordinary moment unfolds: Caitlin, weary of the relentless violence, chooses compassion over fear and helps him instead of turning him in.
But in a city divided by conflict, nothing is simple. Caitlin’s growing affection for James pulls her into a forbidden love strained by religious and social divides. Meanwhile, Robert, now entangled in a shadowy British undercover operation, finds himself at the centre of a mission to thwart a catastrophic terrorist plot.
Stones Corner: Turmoil is a gripping tale of love, survival, and the choices that define us, set against the backdrop of a city where every decision carries life-or-death consequences. It is a powerful reminder of the resilience of the human spirit in the face of unimaginable turmoil.
461 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 25, 2021
18 people are currently reading
1374 people want to read
About the author
Jane Buckley
2 books59 followersJane Buckley, born in Derry/Londonderry, Northern Ireland, is a passionate storyteller who brings the complexities of her homeland’s history to life.
Inspired by her childhood during the Troubles and her experiences abroad, Jane’s Indie Award-winning Stones Corner series offers a gripping and heartfelt exploration of a turbulent era. It blends historical accuracy with unforgettable characters.
Her work aims to shed light on a misunderstood chapter of history, fostering understanding and promoting healing.
Jane’s next book on ‘Project Children’, delves into the inspiring real-life initiative that brought over 23,000 children from Northern Ireland to the United States during the Troubles, offering them a glimpse of peace and a chance to bridge divides. It’s a powerful testament to hope, resilience, and the impact of small acts of kindness.
Inspired by her childhood during the Troubles and her experiences abroad, Jane’s Indie Award-winning Stones Corner series offers a gripping and heartfelt exploration of a turbulent era. It blends historical accuracy with unforgettable characters.
Her work aims to shed light on a misunderstood chapter of history, fostering understanding and promoting healing.
Jane’s next book on ‘Project Children’, delves into the inspiring real-life initiative that brought over 23,000 children from Northern Ireland to the United States during the Troubles, offering them a glimpse of peace and a chance to bridge divides. It’s a powerful testament to hope, resilience, and the impact of small acts of kindness.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 95 reviews
June 13, 2021
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨
Stones Corner: Turmoil by Jane Buckley was an intriguing thriller set during The Troubles in Northern Ireland. I read this quickly in a weekend, despite the gnawing ‘to do’ list fighting for my attention. I had to find out what happened next. Having a book club meeting and special Q&A with the author also helped motivate me too 😉
I didn’t know much about The Troubles prior to reading this novel and still wish to read more on the complicated topic and history (apparently not just in the past but present day too). While reading I kept asking myself why there was so much hatred and misunderstandings such as presented in the story, but then realized how often this same narrative is told time and time again, and continues to occur worldwide. This felt like a mini epiphany about human nature, the desire for power and control at the expense of others creates such divides. This breaks my heart. A lot of other great topics came up in our discussion relating to this, which makes me appreciate a novel all the more.
Subsequently, the novel portrays the importance of showing kindness, compassion, friendship, and the need for tolerance. If societies all over addressed issues such as education, poverty, religion, and politics in a respectful manner, maybe unity could be attainable. I know I’m hopeful (and likely naive), but one needs to dream eh?!
Keep in mind this novel is also a captivating thriller with grotesque violence, vivid villainous characters, a variety of POVs, and naive, yet relatable protagonists. Out of all the characters, I loved Caitlyn and James the most. Their stories interwoven throughout the novel made it easier to stomach the many depressing scenes and deal with the racist monsters a bit more easily. It’s all about balance. There was a good mixture of that along with twists and surprises too. I enjoyed predicting a few of those twists, but was still surprised by the ending.
Looking forward to reading the next book in the series, Stones Corner: Darkness. Can’t wait for the map and glossary too 😉
P.S. Meeting Jane Buckley during our GGI Event this evening was so very special and really insightful! Thankful to have had the opportunity to chat and discuss the story on a deeper level. 🤓📚❤️
Stones Corner: Turmoil by Jane Buckley was an intriguing thriller set during The Troubles in Northern Ireland. I read this quickly in a weekend, despite the gnawing ‘to do’ list fighting for my attention. I had to find out what happened next. Having a book club meeting and special Q&A with the author also helped motivate me too 😉
I didn’t know much about The Troubles prior to reading this novel and still wish to read more on the complicated topic and history (apparently not just in the past but present day too). While reading I kept asking myself why there was so much hatred and misunderstandings such as presented in the story, but then realized how often this same narrative is told time and time again, and continues to occur worldwide. This felt like a mini epiphany about human nature, the desire for power and control at the expense of others creates such divides. This breaks my heart. A lot of other great topics came up in our discussion relating to this, which makes me appreciate a novel all the more.
Subsequently, the novel portrays the importance of showing kindness, compassion, friendship, and the need for tolerance. If societies all over addressed issues such as education, poverty, religion, and politics in a respectful manner, maybe unity could be attainable. I know I’m hopeful (and likely naive), but one needs to dream eh?!
Keep in mind this novel is also a captivating thriller with grotesque violence, vivid villainous characters, a variety of POVs, and naive, yet relatable protagonists. Out of all the characters, I loved Caitlyn and James the most. Their stories interwoven throughout the novel made it easier to stomach the many depressing scenes and deal with the racist monsters a bit more easily. It’s all about balance. There was a good mixture of that along with twists and surprises too. I enjoyed predicting a few of those twists, but was still surprised by the ending.
Looking forward to reading the next book in the series, Stones Corner: Darkness. Can’t wait for the map and glossary too 😉
P.S. Meeting Jane Buckley during our GGI Event this evening was so very special and really insightful! Thankful to have had the opportunity to chat and discuss the story on a deeper level. 🤓📚❤️
April 16, 2021
Stones Corner: Turmoil is one of the best books I have read in a long time. If a book does not get me in the first few chapters it is gone. Being born in Derry in the 70s I was slightly worried about reading the book but Jane has done an exceptional job portraying the challenges of the time in a non bias way. Jane’s amazing story and descriptive language brought me back to Derry in my memories and on reflection the trouble and danger became the norm when actually it was like Russian Roulette. The book provides education to people through fiction which is genius based on the sensitive nature of the story. The book is a page turner, it has OMG moments and a cliff hanger at the end. Hurry Up Jane as I can’t wait to read the next instalment.
April 12, 2021
What a fabulous, hard hitting debut novel from Jane Buckley. Stones Corner, Turmoil tackles the contraversial topic of The Troubles in Northern Ireland, in a realistic way that drew me into the social context of the story. The characters are skillfully developed in this fast paced, intriguing, although sometimes disturbing read. It was a real page turner and finished with a cliff hanger. Can't wait to read the sequel!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 6, 2021
Stones Corner- Turmoil
This is a good book about a war on the Brits and the Scots. The characters were great and I could not put it down. I will read more from this Author
This is a good book about a war on the Brits and the Scots. The characters were great and I could not put it down. I will read more from this Author
September 5, 2021
I have just finished reading this book. Couldn’t put it down, even managed to get sunburned when I moved my sun chair into the water so I could keep reading. Absolutely fabulous for a first book. Only downside, I have to wait to the end of the month to get my hands on the next book.
April 18, 2021
Set in Northern Ireland during the 1970's, Turmoil paints a vivid picture of life lived amidst armed struggle.
It’s a story of people trying to get on with their lives against a backdrop of discrimination, bigotry, revolutionary conflict and state suppression. And it’s the little things, of bravery and kindness, that make this book such a joy. The uncle that buys his niece a pair of tight for her new job, knowing she can’t afford them. The woman who berates the masked gunmen by telling them she’ll complain to their mothers. The wealthy boss who visits his injured secretary, naïve to the impact his flashy car will have in her impoverished and dangerous part of town.
There is universality at work here. We may be in Northern Ireland, but we could be in any country where there is conflict - where bosses are trying to save their factories, where young men are seduced into a cause, where psychopaths use conflict as cover for their own dark work, and where people - despite everything - are flirting, laughing and falling love.
The author has created a set of characters here that the reader can quickly identify with, and in some cases genuinely care about. The various sides of the conflict are represented with an even handedness which aids our understanding of the complexities of Northern Ireland’s conflict - perhaps with the exception of some of the more bigoted characters, representing the political status quo, who could have benefited from a little more development.
That aside Turmoil is a confident and entertaining debut from the author whose next instalment in this trilogy is eagerly awaited.
It’s a story of people trying to get on with their lives against a backdrop of discrimination, bigotry, revolutionary conflict and state suppression. And it’s the little things, of bravery and kindness, that make this book such a joy. The uncle that buys his niece a pair of tight for her new job, knowing she can’t afford them. The woman who berates the masked gunmen by telling them she’ll complain to their mothers. The wealthy boss who visits his injured secretary, naïve to the impact his flashy car will have in her impoverished and dangerous part of town.
There is universality at work here. We may be in Northern Ireland, but we could be in any country where there is conflict - where bosses are trying to save their factories, where young men are seduced into a cause, where psychopaths use conflict as cover for their own dark work, and where people - despite everything - are flirting, laughing and falling love.
The author has created a set of characters here that the reader can quickly identify with, and in some cases genuinely care about. The various sides of the conflict are represented with an even handedness which aids our understanding of the complexities of Northern Ireland’s conflict - perhaps with the exception of some of the more bigoted characters, representing the political status quo, who could have benefited from a little more development.
That aside Turmoil is a confident and entertaining debut from the author whose next instalment in this trilogy is eagerly awaited.
June 14, 2021
This novel is a great portrait of a family in turmoil, living through the Troubles in 1970s Northern Ireland. It’s a refreshing and holistic look at a topic which is often told from only one perspective. The author recreates the atmosphere so realistically that I felt homesick reading it. The main character, Caitlin is a typical Derry girl, dealing with the hardships of the time, who falls for her young Scottish boss. In such a segregated society, a relationship like that could have serious consequences. The book wonderfully recreates a time that many have little understanding of and although it does not shy away from the violence that overshadowed everyday life, Caitlin’s resilience and spirit shine throughout. I can’t wait for the 2nd volume in the series!
June 28, 2021
I’ve really enjoyed Turmoil, it’s a great story of life in Derry/Londonderry during the troubled and dark days of the 70s. Fantastic read with a great insight to the different life experiences of the characters. I’m looking forward to reading the other books in the series.
March 24, 2021
Loved it !
Shows what life in Derry at one of the worst times in its history was like for all who lived there ...
Can’t wait to read the follow up !
Shows what life in Derry at one of the worst times in its history was like for all who lived there ...
Can’t wait to read the follow up !
August 1, 2025
Set in Northern Ireland during the 1970s, Turmoil paints a true picture of ordinary people trying to get on with their lives during a time of conflict between Protestant/Unionists and Catholic/Nationalist communities.
Turmoil is an extremely well researched book, where the various sides of the conflict are represented and aids our understanding of the complexities of the conflict.
The author, Jane Buckley has created a set of characters that the reader can swiftly identify with and have empathy towards. A highly recommended read!
Turmoil is an extremely well researched book, where the various sides of the conflict are represented and aids our understanding of the complexities of the conflict.
The author, Jane Buckley has created a set of characters that the reader can swiftly identify with and have empathy towards. A highly recommended read!
June 23, 2022
Turmoil was a very engaging historically accurate account of Northern Ireland's religious struggle between the Catholic and Protestant factions in 1972. The speaking content of the characters was authentic Irish jargon from both sides. Characters were realistically portrayed on each side and narratives of the skirmishes were written with genuine information. If cursing is offensive to you, this is not the book for you. Also, be prepared to purchase Volume Two Darkness immediately as the ending leaves the reader hanging. While this was a great historical account, I did not rank it higher because of the necessity to buy Volume Two and the offensive language. It was an enlightening account of history.
#Thank you, Goodreads for this gift!
#Thank you, Goodreads for this gift!
January 7, 2023
A well written page turner! Could not put this book down! Although from Co. Derry myself I was always blind to what happened during the troubles, Turmoil opened my eyes and gave me an insight into what happened back in those dark days! I’m sucker for a cliffhanger and this book left me wanting to read the next straight away!!
January 29, 2023
Really brilliant book. Couldn't put it down. Exciting twists and turns. Such an insight in to 'The Troubles'....The minute details describing clothing, cars, facial/ body features, the language used etc.... made me feel almost as if I was there! Left on a cliffhanger! I couldn't wait to start the second book. Thank you.
August 14, 2022
Creatively captured a very ugly history
I received this book as a Goodreads Giveaway
The horrors of Northern Ireland are a recent and very real memory for many. Jane Buckley, however, made that reality much more personal and up close in this book.
I received this book as a Goodreads Giveaway
The horrors of Northern Ireland are a recent and very real memory for many. Jane Buckley, however, made that reality much more personal and up close in this book.
January 18, 2024
It sucked me in, held me tight then left me wanting more!
September 28, 2022
4 and a half stars
Captivating, Intense, Gripping.
The plot in this book is amazingly intricate. Each character has a part to play and is amazingly thought out. Each twist and turn grip the reader. It is very well thought out and written.
There are some very violent scenes which brings a lot of intensity to the book. Caitlin is such a strong and resilient character and I look forward to learning about her journey.
I have read a few books set in Northern Ireland, but this is the first one that I have read that deals with the Troubles.
This was a four and a half star read for me. I'm really looking forward to reading Darkness which is the next book in the series. It is a tetralogy made up of the following books Turmoil, Darkness, Light and Hope. Light is due for release later in 2022 with Hope coming in 2023.
Thank you to the author for a gifted copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Captivating, Intense, Gripping.
The plot in this book is amazingly intricate. Each character has a part to play and is amazingly thought out. Each twist and turn grip the reader. It is very well thought out and written.
There are some very violent scenes which brings a lot of intensity to the book. Caitlin is such a strong and resilient character and I look forward to learning about her journey.
I have read a few books set in Northern Ireland, but this is the first one that I have read that deals with the Troubles.
This was a four and a half star read for me. I'm really looking forward to reading Darkness which is the next book in the series. It is a tetralogy made up of the following books Turmoil, Darkness, Light and Hope. Light is due for release later in 2022 with Hope coming in 2023.
Thank you to the author for a gifted copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
February 12, 2025
Amazing book! I couldn’t put it down! My only regret is not having the 2nd book readily available
October 11, 2021
I have to say that I really enjoyed this first book by Jane Buckley and look forward to reading the second book in this series. This book is very well written and is a real page turner. The storyline itself is an exciting read with plenty of twists, turns and surprises right up to the “cliffhanging” final page.
My next book will undoubtingly be “Stones Corner - Darkness, (Volume 2)”
My next book will undoubtingly be “Stones Corner - Darkness, (Volume 2)”
October 15, 2023
Deeply disturbing and yet engaging
Putting the ‘troubles’ into a personal context I could not put this book down. With the story going into depths of the complexity and destinies this gives an extremely interesting insight in a dark period of history
Putting the ‘troubles’ into a personal context I could not put this book down. With the story going into depths of the complexity and destinies this gives an extremely interesting insight in a dark period of history
April 15, 2021
Absolutely fantastic read. The characters were so real and so well described. Couldn't put it down and what a fantastic twist at the end! Can't wait for the next books in the series!!
July 17, 2021
After Bloody Sunday, things are still volatile in Northern Ireland. The British forces in Derry, exhausted from lack of success, are zealous for payback. Private Robert Sallis is in his barracks, trying to understand the hatred with which he and his mates are daily bombarded.
19-year-old Caitlin McLaughlin is terrified by the sounds of invading helicopters. The Brits already have her brother Martin, who’s friendly with the Provos. Now they’ve come, causing as much destruction as possible, for her father Patrick.
A girl is wooed by the fervent Republican Kieran. Kieran convinces her to set up a honeytrap for soldiers.
Caitlin and her sister Tina try to carry on. Caitlin, her face black and blue from the soldiers’ blows, goes to work at the only remaining shirt factory. The boss’s nephew, James Henderson, catches her eye.
Her father has a heart attack in custody, and a neighbour rushes them to the A&E, through aggravating checkpoints and impossible traffic. There’s been a bombing, and the A&E is swamped. Her father is badly beaten, unresponsive, and not expected to last the night.
James, in his uncle’s opulent dining room, finishes his partridge dinner, surrounded by Protestant businessmen, politicians and policemen. The factories are threatening a strike against internment. At work, James needs a secretary, and her supervisor suggests Caitlin, warning him that she’s ‘a Papist’.
As he and Caitlin pursue a clandestine love affair, James plans a conference with both sides of the sectarian divide, hoping for a rescue strategy for the factory and peace for Derry.
All these characters interconnect in complex and heart-wrenching ways, finally climaxing at the fateful conference at the City Hotel. Stones Corner-Darkness, Part II of the series, deals with the fallout from this event.
The characters are rich, and the plot moves along at a good pace. The dramatisation is great and the dialogue believable.
My only niggle was that I found Robert’s naïveté a bit surprising. Surely British troops in Northern Ireland knew precisely what their historic role was. James seems a bit clueless, too. The characters at the extreme ends of the Republican/Orange spectrum—Kieran and Charles Jones—are a bit one-dimensional, but that’s alright, as all the other characters are well developed.
This novel is gorgeously written, with careful editing. We feel the terror of the raid on Derry—the down-draught of helicopter blades, the rattling of rooftiles, the salivating German Shepherds—the agonising grief at her father’s death.
I rate this 5 stars Plus.
19-year-old Caitlin McLaughlin is terrified by the sounds of invading helicopters. The Brits already have her brother Martin, who’s friendly with the Provos. Now they’ve come, causing as much destruction as possible, for her father Patrick.
A girl is wooed by the fervent Republican Kieran. Kieran convinces her to set up a honeytrap for soldiers.
Caitlin and her sister Tina try to carry on. Caitlin, her face black and blue from the soldiers’ blows, goes to work at the only remaining shirt factory. The boss’s nephew, James Henderson, catches her eye.
Her father has a heart attack in custody, and a neighbour rushes them to the A&E, through aggravating checkpoints and impossible traffic. There’s been a bombing, and the A&E is swamped. Her father is badly beaten, unresponsive, and not expected to last the night.
James, in his uncle’s opulent dining room, finishes his partridge dinner, surrounded by Protestant businessmen, politicians and policemen. The factories are threatening a strike against internment. At work, James needs a secretary, and her supervisor suggests Caitlin, warning him that she’s ‘a Papist’.
As he and Caitlin pursue a clandestine love affair, James plans a conference with both sides of the sectarian divide, hoping for a rescue strategy for the factory and peace for Derry.
All these characters interconnect in complex and heart-wrenching ways, finally climaxing at the fateful conference at the City Hotel. Stones Corner-Darkness, Part II of the series, deals with the fallout from this event.
The characters are rich, and the plot moves along at a good pace. The dramatisation is great and the dialogue believable.
My only niggle was that I found Robert’s naïveté a bit surprising. Surely British troops in Northern Ireland knew precisely what their historic role was. James seems a bit clueless, too. The characters at the extreme ends of the Republican/Orange spectrum—Kieran and Charles Jones—are a bit one-dimensional, but that’s alright, as all the other characters are well developed.
This novel is gorgeously written, with careful editing. We feel the terror of the raid on Derry—the down-draught of helicopter blades, the rattling of rooftiles, the salivating German Shepherds—the agonising grief at her father’s death.
I rate this 5 stars Plus.
March 26, 2021
Just finished reading "Stones Corner, Turmoil," by Jane Buckley. I read a lot, mostly in the Thriller Genre, & I have to say this book was absolutely enthralling from start to finish. I can't wait for the next instalment.
I know "Unput-Downable," is a Cliché, but with this book, it REALLY IS TRUE!! the book Sucks the reader in from the first page to the last page. The use of English is very descriptive, & I love the detail such as putting on the gas rings on the cooker to stay warm when the electricity has run out & there is no money for the meter! (reminds me of my student days in Belfast!-L.OL). The characters are interesting & well developed. I had a feeling of getting to know the characters, better & better as I read through the book.
Having been born & raised in Northern Ireland myself, I understand the "us & them," feelings most people probably had, & the sectarian attitudes that existed, particularly during the 1970's when I was growing up in Norther Ireland. Believe it or not (if you aren't from Northern Ireland), those sectarian attitudes still exist in Norther Ireland today in the 21st century, although thank goodness to a much reduced extent. In my opinion, I really do feel this book helps explain why ordinary people became radicalised & then they themselves became part of the problem-They couldn't help it almost!!
The book is very well written from a completely neutral stance on "The Troubles," which raged from the late 1960's, until peace "broke out!" with the signing of the Good Friday/Belfast Agreement PEACE ACCORD, OF 1998.
As above the Characters are well developed & show that most of the people who became "INVOLVED," on both sides, were just ordinary people in the wrong place @ the wrong time, caught up in the circumstances of the day & not even really FULLY understanding the situation themselves.
The book has some very wealthy characters & some very poor characters & at least one psychopath using the "cover," of "The Troubles," to satisfy his barbaric urges, & is representative of people like him on both sides during "the Troubles."
As I've said, having lived through theses times myself growing up in Northern Ireland during "The Troubles," the book is a fascinating read & is exactly how it was-Good & Bad!! But it really is AMAZING what at the time seemed so NORMAL, but is now so SHOCKING!!
Everyone's behaviour on ALL SIDES was just CRAZY. I'd actually forgotten-just HOW MAD IT ALL WAS!!
Anyways I would highly recommend reading this book to anyone who lived through "The Troubles," in Northern Ireland, or whose parents did, or anyone else with an interest in Irish History, or even anyone who also just likes a GOOD THRILLER. Although the book is fictional, it is very historically accurate & an addictive read.
Congratulations to the author & I can't wait for the next book in the series.
I know "Unput-Downable," is a Cliché, but with this book, it REALLY IS TRUE!! the book Sucks the reader in from the first page to the last page. The use of English is very descriptive, & I love the detail such as putting on the gas rings on the cooker to stay warm when the electricity has run out & there is no money for the meter! (reminds me of my student days in Belfast!-L.OL). The characters are interesting & well developed. I had a feeling of getting to know the characters, better & better as I read through the book.
Having been born & raised in Northern Ireland myself, I understand the "us & them," feelings most people probably had, & the sectarian attitudes that existed, particularly during the 1970's when I was growing up in Norther Ireland. Believe it or not (if you aren't from Northern Ireland), those sectarian attitudes still exist in Norther Ireland today in the 21st century, although thank goodness to a much reduced extent. In my opinion, I really do feel this book helps explain why ordinary people became radicalised & then they themselves became part of the problem-They couldn't help it almost!!
The book is very well written from a completely neutral stance on "The Troubles," which raged from the late 1960's, until peace "broke out!" with the signing of the Good Friday/Belfast Agreement PEACE ACCORD, OF 1998.
As above the Characters are well developed & show that most of the people who became "INVOLVED," on both sides, were just ordinary people in the wrong place @ the wrong time, caught up in the circumstances of the day & not even really FULLY understanding the situation themselves.
The book has some very wealthy characters & some very poor characters & at least one psychopath using the "cover," of "The Troubles," to satisfy his barbaric urges, & is representative of people like him on both sides during "the Troubles."
As I've said, having lived through theses times myself growing up in Northern Ireland during "The Troubles," the book is a fascinating read & is exactly how it was-Good & Bad!! But it really is AMAZING what at the time seemed so NORMAL, but is now so SHOCKING!!
Everyone's behaviour on ALL SIDES was just CRAZY. I'd actually forgotten-just HOW MAD IT ALL WAS!!
Anyways I would highly recommend reading this book to anyone who lived through "The Troubles," in Northern Ireland, or whose parents did, or anyone else with an interest in Irish History, or even anyone who also just likes a GOOD THRILLER. Although the book is fictional, it is very historically accurate & an addictive read.
Congratulations to the author & I can't wait for the next book in the series.
June 25, 2021
Jane has a wonderful way of writing, she gently guides the reader into the story and without realising when the transition happened you find yourself sitting alongside her characters or walking the streets of Derry city with them. Walking to the factory with the young Catholic Caitlín and her best friend, listening to them chat, I felt I was laughing with them. I cried too when on a much anticipated shopping trip one of young innocent girls were brutally injured by a bomb blast – an everyday occurrence.
The reality of life in Northern Ireland was brought home in the words of Jane Buckley as she led us through the Troubles of Derry City and the lives shattered by the conflict and war. How could we empathise with the handsome but privileged James, nephew of the factory owner – but yet, somehow, we do! We feel Caitlin's youngful anticipation of first love through her dangerous liaison with the Scottish protestant James. We somehow understand how the youth can be cajoled or angered into uprise and violence. Above all we feel the joy and the utter heartbreak and devastation that the conflict has on all families and all of the individuals – no-one escapes unscathed.
A superbly constructed thriller, written in a style that is accessible to those of us who may never really understand what it is like to live in a war zone; the backdrop for their lives, it's not extraordinary to them, it is, shockingly, their everyday lives. Stones Corner really makes this clear to the reader, despite the warzone, despite the bombings, the threat, the constant fear, these real people must live their lives.
This book transports us into the very shoes of the characters and allows us for a short time to walk in their shoes and hear their thoughts and feel their emotions.
A thriller with a lot of backbone and an enormous depth. It keeps the reader holding his breath to see what is going to happen next.
I loved it and I am so looking forward to the sequel. Thanks to Jane Buckley for Stones Corner. Read it!
The reality of life in Northern Ireland was brought home in the words of Jane Buckley as she led us through the Troubles of Derry City and the lives shattered by the conflict and war. How could we empathise with the handsome but privileged James, nephew of the factory owner – but yet, somehow, we do! We feel Caitlin's youngful anticipation of first love through her dangerous liaison with the Scottish protestant James. We somehow understand how the youth can be cajoled or angered into uprise and violence. Above all we feel the joy and the utter heartbreak and devastation that the conflict has on all families and all of the individuals – no-one escapes unscathed.
A superbly constructed thriller, written in a style that is accessible to those of us who may never really understand what it is like to live in a war zone; the backdrop for their lives, it's not extraordinary to them, it is, shockingly, their everyday lives. Stones Corner really makes this clear to the reader, despite the warzone, despite the bombings, the threat, the constant fear, these real people must live their lives.
This book transports us into the very shoes of the characters and allows us for a short time to walk in their shoes and hear their thoughts and feel their emotions.
A thriller with a lot of backbone and an enormous depth. It keeps the reader holding his breath to see what is going to happen next.
I loved it and I am so looking forward to the sequel. Thanks to Jane Buckley for Stones Corner. Read it!
December 28, 2021
The author gives a warning in the blurb about what a reader can expect in her debut novel set in Derry, Northern Ireland during one of the darkest years in the province’s history. The book delivers the reasons for that warning with chilling effect, bringing home the reality that this was a part of the United Kingdom, experiencing civil war within the last 50 years. The ripples of this violent outcome to the separation of Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland and its issues of belief and inequality, spread devastatingly outwards from the province; at times devastatingly.
When extremism on both sides of the divide are intent on winning, those innocents caught up in the turmoil are at the greatest risk, and when an outside force such as the British army are brought in, it adds fuel to the fire. The author creates that atmosphere of everyday fear and loss with great skill.
At the heart of this turmoil are young men and women who are vulnerable to manipulation by the fanatics, and imprisoned by age old segregation between religions and class.
Inhumane treatment of individuals, bombings resulting in mass casualties of innocents, illicit love affairs, revenge, espionage and poverty all combine to break the spirit of those who can see no end to the deprivation and conflict.
The author has created characters that will haunt you and some who inspire. Despite the environment, good people try to find comfort in their lives, falling in love across the divide and working to bring peace and stability. As the story moves forward they all come together centred on an event which will impact all of them and the future of the city.
This intiguing thriller delivers a great deal in terms of the writing, characters, storyline and expectations and I highly recommend the book. I am looking forward to reading the next book in the series soon.
When extremism on both sides of the divide are intent on winning, those innocents caught up in the turmoil are at the greatest risk, and when an outside force such as the British army are brought in, it adds fuel to the fire. The author creates that atmosphere of everyday fear and loss with great skill.
At the heart of this turmoil are young men and women who are vulnerable to manipulation by the fanatics, and imprisoned by age old segregation between religions and class.
Inhumane treatment of individuals, bombings resulting in mass casualties of innocents, illicit love affairs, revenge, espionage and poverty all combine to break the spirit of those who can see no end to the deprivation and conflict.
The author has created characters that will haunt you and some who inspire. Despite the environment, good people try to find comfort in their lives, falling in love across the divide and working to bring peace and stability. As the story moves forward they all come together centred on an event which will impact all of them and the future of the city.
This intiguing thriller delivers a great deal in terms of the writing, characters, storyline and expectations and I highly recommend the book. I am looking forward to reading the next book in the series soon.
October 9, 2022
Turmoil - the first installment of Jane Buckley's Stones Corner Trilogy, is a compelling story of love, loss, loyalty, revenge and simmering hatred set in 1970s Northern Ireland. Throughout, the author narrates a balanced account of the conflict on both sides of the sectarian divide.
She illustrates the stark difference between the opulence and prosperity of one side and the poverty and submission of the other. In this way, she successfully develops depth of character, so the reader has a full understanding of their perspective and motivation. She depicts the villainous characters who use the cause as an excuse for their own destructive rhetoric and actions, those who desperately wish to stay out of the conflict and get on with normal life, and also those who strive for peace and reconciliation. They are cleverly woven together, with surprising twists and turns as they connect through the narrative, creating suspense and mystery.
The illicit love story that features between Caitlin and James is both uplifting and hopeful and helps to lighten the intense and gruesome passages, that were a grim reality of the time.
Having grown up in the Republic of Ireland in the 80s and 90s, news of ongoing brutal murders and bombings in the north was unfortunately a normality, and I feel this story echoes some of those figures in history who were vocal in the conflict, those who fought on both sides, and also those who ultimately lead the reconciliation and peace process.
Jane Buckley's Turmoil is a refreshingly honest account of the time and is an essential read for anyone interested in Irish history and Northern Ireland, from an objective point of view.
It also very cleverly finishes on a cliffhanger, leaving the reader enthralled! I can't wait to read on!
Thank you, Jane.
She illustrates the stark difference between the opulence and prosperity of one side and the poverty and submission of the other. In this way, she successfully develops depth of character, so the reader has a full understanding of their perspective and motivation. She depicts the villainous characters who use the cause as an excuse for their own destructive rhetoric and actions, those who desperately wish to stay out of the conflict and get on with normal life, and also those who strive for peace and reconciliation. They are cleverly woven together, with surprising twists and turns as they connect through the narrative, creating suspense and mystery.
The illicit love story that features between Caitlin and James is both uplifting and hopeful and helps to lighten the intense and gruesome passages, that were a grim reality of the time.
Having grown up in the Republic of Ireland in the 80s and 90s, news of ongoing brutal murders and bombings in the north was unfortunately a normality, and I feel this story echoes some of those figures in history who were vocal in the conflict, those who fought on both sides, and also those who ultimately lead the reconciliation and peace process.
Jane Buckley's Turmoil is a refreshingly honest account of the time and is an essential read for anyone interested in Irish history and Northern Ireland, from an objective point of view.
It also very cleverly finishes on a cliffhanger, leaving the reader enthralled! I can't wait to read on!
Thank you, Jane.
June 15, 2021
𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸 𝗥𝗲𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄 - 𝗦𝘁𝗼𝗻𝗲𝘀 𝗖𝗼𝗿𝗻𝗲𝗿 : 𝗧𝘂𝗿𝗺𝗼𝗶𝗹 𝗯𝘆 𝗝𝗮𝗻𝗲 𝗕𝘂𝗰𝗸𝗹𝗲𝘆
📚This book was kindly gifted to me by the author @jebuckley and @buythebook - what a fantastic read to gift, I am very greatful to have had this opportunity to read this one.
📚 This book is a thriller and is set in Northern Ireland during the 1970s. Being from Ireland myself I had an idea of the struggles in the North but this book really opened my eyes. I was hooked from the very start which is rare in reading and an amazing skill for an author to have.
📚The way the characters are described and portrayed leave you with a sense of knowing them and being on a journey with them. There is so much hatred and backlash in this story during The Troubles and to read a book surrounding this was very educational to me.
📚 I couldn't put it down and I know that sounds cliche, but every page I turned I was waiting for something to happen. This is one of those special finds and can only say good things about it. Yes it has lots of heartbreaking subjects in it but it also follows a love story, which I thought was well written.
📚This book touches on topics people in Ireland don't like to speak about and find it hard and I can completely understand it. In saying that I truly believe that history is only forgotten about if we don't speak about it. This is one of these issues that will always be around. I can't say I was ever affected , living in the west of Ireland but I do know families that were and will never forget.
📚This book ended on a cliffhanger leaving the reader wanting more, and the way it is written kept me so engaged. If the next book is anything like this one it will be money well spent. Well done Jane on a fantastically written book and thank you again.
My rating ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ / 5 stars.
📚This book was kindly gifted to me by the author @jebuckley and @buythebook - what a fantastic read to gift, I am very greatful to have had this opportunity to read this one.
📚 This book is a thriller and is set in Northern Ireland during the 1970s. Being from Ireland myself I had an idea of the struggles in the North but this book really opened my eyes. I was hooked from the very start which is rare in reading and an amazing skill for an author to have.
📚The way the characters are described and portrayed leave you with a sense of knowing them and being on a journey with them. There is so much hatred and backlash in this story during The Troubles and to read a book surrounding this was very educational to me.
📚 I couldn't put it down and I know that sounds cliche, but every page I turned I was waiting for something to happen. This is one of those special finds and can only say good things about it. Yes it has lots of heartbreaking subjects in it but it also follows a love story, which I thought was well written.
📚This book touches on topics people in Ireland don't like to speak about and find it hard and I can completely understand it. In saying that I truly believe that history is only forgotten about if we don't speak about it. This is one of these issues that will always be around. I can't say I was ever affected , living in the west of Ireland but I do know families that were and will never forget.
📚This book ended on a cliffhanger leaving the reader wanting more, and the way it is written kept me so engaged. If the next book is anything like this one it will be money well spent. Well done Jane on a fantastically written book and thank you again.
My rating ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ / 5 stars.
March 20, 2023
‘Turmoil’, Jane Buckley’s debut novel is the first book of the Stones Corner Trilogy. It’s a page-turning thriller, set in Derry or Londonderry, depending on your politics, in the 1970s at the height of the Troubles.
The story tells of both ordinary and extraordinary people getting on with their lives. It's raw and uncompromising, expertly researched and compelling narrated with multiple points-of-view. The core plot is the relationship between Caitlin McLaughlin employed in Rocola shirt factory. The factory is the primary employer of the Creggan women who live in the area and are mainly the family breadwinners, but it is on shaky financial ground. Caitlin is secretary to James Henderson, the recently arrived boss’s nephew, who with his innovative ideas, is heralded as the factory’s saviour. They fall in love, but the relationship between a Catholic girl from the Bogside and a Protestant heir with its triple obstacles of politics, class and religion is fraught with problems and has to be shrouded in secrecy.
Based on real events taking in Northern Ireland, the story takes in the Royal Fusiliers, the Provisional IRA, Unionists and Loyalists.
It’s no surprise that Buckley is garnering awards, but in my opinion, excellent as the book is, it is poorly served by its editing throughout and particularly the ending that leaves both the main and minor plots ravelling at the seams.
Yet, I can’t wait to read ‘Darkness’ volume 2.
The story tells of both ordinary and extraordinary people getting on with their lives. It's raw and uncompromising, expertly researched and compelling narrated with multiple points-of-view. The core plot is the relationship between Caitlin McLaughlin employed in Rocola shirt factory. The factory is the primary employer of the Creggan women who live in the area and are mainly the family breadwinners, but it is on shaky financial ground. Caitlin is secretary to James Henderson, the recently arrived boss’s nephew, who with his innovative ideas, is heralded as the factory’s saviour. They fall in love, but the relationship between a Catholic girl from the Bogside and a Protestant heir with its triple obstacles of politics, class and religion is fraught with problems and has to be shrouded in secrecy.
Based on real events taking in Northern Ireland, the story takes in the Royal Fusiliers, the Provisional IRA, Unionists and Loyalists.
It’s no surprise that Buckley is garnering awards, but in my opinion, excellent as the book is, it is poorly served by its editing throughout and particularly the ending that leaves both the main and minor plots ravelling at the seams.
Yet, I can’t wait to read ‘Darkness’ volume 2.
August 26, 2021
For many, the vision of the recent “Troubles” in Northern Ireland were mostly conveyed through representation in the media. Disturbing as those images were, they never conveyed the full picture of what went on “behind closed doors”, and so the personal accounts of those caught up in the Troubles provide a valuable insight. Jane Buckley draws on both her own experience of life in Derry in those troubled years and also on personal research conducted over many years seeking answers to what the years of violence may have achieved to produce a “factional” account of life in Derry in those troubled times, and in not one but four instalments! “Turmoil”, the first, focuses on one young woman from a Nationalist background, portraying the struggles her family experienced, but also builds and develops characters from both the more privileged background of her employer and also members of the armed forces, all of whom interact. The characters are skilfully developed, and, towards the end, a couple of surprising twists are introduced, and this episode ends with a “what happens next?” scenario. The writing style makes for easy reading, making the 400+ pages easily digestible. If the quality of this first instalment is maintained throughout the entire tetralogy, it has the potential for a classic. A debut author truly arrived. Instalment 2 awaited!
May 24, 2023
I received a free copy of “ Stone’s Corner” through Net Galley in return for an honest review.
I really dislike giving a book a bad review, but I just did not like Stone’s Corner. The story is set in Northern Ireland during the recent “ Troubles”, i.e., sectarian warfare between Catholic and Protestants, their urban warriors or terrorists ( depending who is getting killed and who is doing the killing,) and the British.
The book is bleak. The bleak weather overlays the bleak lives of people without hope. Living on the dole, idle men drink, smoke and plot. Young people have only the hope of escaping the province. Sudden police raids, bombings and executions are the rule. So: a dark and blasted story that is told in painstakingly detailed narrative. Descriptions of daily living fill every page as the plot progressed so slowly. One has to decipher the local argot - good for verisimilitude of locale, but not always easy to get.
The language is quite bad. Violence is common. I know that the author was striving for an effect- showing the cruelty common on all sides. , but it got too much for me to enjoy the reading. “Stone’s Corner” is the first in a projected trilogy. and I cannot imagine sticking though three volumes.
I admit that I struggled to get through the first third of the book and gave up.
I really dislike giving a book a bad review, but I just did not like Stone’s Corner. The story is set in Northern Ireland during the recent “ Troubles”, i.e., sectarian warfare between Catholic and Protestants, their urban warriors or terrorists ( depending who is getting killed and who is doing the killing,) and the British.
The book is bleak. The bleak weather overlays the bleak lives of people without hope. Living on the dole, idle men drink, smoke and plot. Young people have only the hope of escaping the province. Sudden police raids, bombings and executions are the rule. So: a dark and blasted story that is told in painstakingly detailed narrative. Descriptions of daily living fill every page as the plot progressed so slowly. One has to decipher the local argot - good for verisimilitude of locale, but not always easy to get.
The language is quite bad. Violence is common. I know that the author was striving for an effect- showing the cruelty common on all sides. , but it got too much for me to enjoy the reading. “Stone’s Corner” is the first in a projected trilogy. and I cannot imagine sticking though three volumes.
I admit that I struggled to get through the first third of the book and gave up.
April 25, 2022
'Gripping' is an understatement.
I instantly related to Caitlin and her romantic yet harrowing story and truly believe this book has an important message of resilience. Despite reading this first installment of the Stones Corner series soon after some of the most anxiety-ridden events I've lived through in social history, this carefully considered representation of The Troubles in Derry brought me so much inspiration as a fellow writer and book lover.
The plethora of shining reviews on here and Amazon can tell you just how engaging this series is shaping up to be and how well conceived this unique and compassionate retelling of the life-changing war in Northern Ireland is and how its still effecting it's people today, 50 years after Bloody Sunday.
This book is an incredible achievement for a first novel and I commend Jane for her tenacity and lyricicm in creating such a visceral and compelling narrative within such a raw and ineffable context.
Some say the best writers are those who make you feel immersed and seen, while educating you on bigger social issues and this is certainly the case with Jane's Turmoil.
I eagerly await the rest of the Stones Corner series. I've almost finished her second 'Darkness' and - without giving any spoilers - it's also a must read.
I instantly related to Caitlin and her romantic yet harrowing story and truly believe this book has an important message of resilience. Despite reading this first installment of the Stones Corner series soon after some of the most anxiety-ridden events I've lived through in social history, this carefully considered representation of The Troubles in Derry brought me so much inspiration as a fellow writer and book lover.
The plethora of shining reviews on here and Amazon can tell you just how engaging this series is shaping up to be and how well conceived this unique and compassionate retelling of the life-changing war in Northern Ireland is and how its still effecting it's people today, 50 years after Bloody Sunday.
This book is an incredible achievement for a first novel and I commend Jane for her tenacity and lyricicm in creating such a visceral and compelling narrative within such a raw and ineffable context.
Some say the best writers are those who make you feel immersed and seen, while educating you on bigger social issues and this is certainly the case with Jane's Turmoil.
I eagerly await the rest of the Stones Corner series. I've almost finished her second 'Darkness' and - without giving any spoilers - it's also a must read.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 95 reviews