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Stones Corner #2
Darkness
The gripping second instalment in Jane Buckley’s acclaimed Stones Corner series, Darkness plunges readers into the heart of Derry/Londonderry in the early 1970s—one of the bleakest chapters of The Troubles in Northern Ireland.
In the wake of the ill-fated Derry City Hotel meeting, lives are shattered, ambitions derailed, and loyalties tested. From James Henderson, the privileged and calculating businessman, to Caitlin McLaughlin, the determined factory girl caught in the crossfire of a brutal guerrilla war, no one escapes the conflict’s far-reaching devastation.
As violence spirals across Northern Ireland, mainland Britain, and the Republic of Ireland, powerful forces work in the shadows. Charles Jones, a bigoted Belfast businessman, and IOWA, a ruthless British Army operative driven by revenge, exploit every opportunity to sow chaos and suffering.
For Caitlin, the battle is not just external. Her journey takes readers from the glittering private clubs of London’s West End to the harsh, unyielding walls of Armagh Women’s Gaol. Yet, even in the darkest moments, hope flickers—a testament to the enduring power of love, truth, and justice.
Stones Corner: Darkness is a raw, unflinching portrayal of a community torn apart by sectarian violence. Jane Buckley’s fearless storytelling captures not only the heartbreak and humanity of those trapped in conflict but also their resilience and fight for a brighter tomorrow.
In the wake of the ill-fated Derry City Hotel meeting, lives are shattered, ambitions derailed, and loyalties tested. From James Henderson, the privileged and calculating businessman, to Caitlin McLaughlin, the determined factory girl caught in the crossfire of a brutal guerrilla war, no one escapes the conflict’s far-reaching devastation.
As violence spirals across Northern Ireland, mainland Britain, and the Republic of Ireland, powerful forces work in the shadows. Charles Jones, a bigoted Belfast businessman, and IOWA, a ruthless British Army operative driven by revenge, exploit every opportunity to sow chaos and suffering.
For Caitlin, the battle is not just external. Her journey takes readers from the glittering private clubs of London’s West End to the harsh, unyielding walls of Armagh Women’s Gaol. Yet, even in the darkest moments, hope flickers—a testament to the enduring power of love, truth, and justice.
Stones Corner: Darkness is a raw, unflinching portrayal of a community torn apart by sectarian violence. Jane Buckley’s fearless storytelling captures not only the heartbreak and humanity of those trapped in conflict but also their resilience and fight for a brighter tomorrow.
436 pages, Paperback
Published October 28, 2022
8 people are currently reading
32 people want to read
About the author
Jane Buckley
4 books63 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.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 42 reviews
May 8, 2022
I couldn't wait to read this after the cliff hanger the first book ended on and it didn't disappoint! I can't believe I've to wait for the next one now.
October 18, 2021
The wait for this sequel was frustrating but very much worth it. Like I’ve read in other reviews it was hard to put it down. Absolutely riveting. The story moves from character to character , it’s very easy to follow she has a knack of reminding you where you left off. Can’t wait wait for the last two volumes. The books have got me back into reading again.
September 7, 2025
Another rollercoaster ride through Troubles Derry in the mid to late 70s. This volume touches on the significant period when the UK government withdrew "special category status" from paramilitary prisoners, treating them as criminals rather than political prisoners leading to the blanket protests and hunger strikes by Republican paramilitary prisoners (and the loss of 10 more young lives). The main characters are vividly brought to life via colourful and fulsome descriptions - the villainous vengeful and murderous orangeman Charles Jones, the trusting, tragic, manipulated and lost Tina McLaughlin and of course the on-going relationship between Tina's sister Caitlin and James Henderson. Events dscribed such as the IRA ambush at the rural Tullyvallen Orange Hall with Jones reminded me of the Darkley Hall massacre; Kevin Moore at times reminiscent of Martin McGartland but the similarities are superficial. Some of the heroes and villains could be said to be stereotypical but poetic licence is deployed effectively and can be said to answer that criticism. As a Northern Irishman who lived through The Troubles and this period I have to keep reminding myself this is a fictional novel - it is brought to life well! There is a reference to a priest supporting the IRA's armed struggle - again an honest portrayal of corruption on both sides of the sectarian fence, given Jones' UVF support and an attempt at balance. The humanity - light and darkness - is also displayed in the characters. At times the tragedy of events is overwhelming ("Darkness" an apt title!) and depressing but the constant Derry/Northern Irish humour shines through and, along with the drama and tension kept me reading. That said, the explicit nature of the book continues and, if anything, intensifies. In this volume there are three scenes of sexual violence, including rape, each graphically described. One happens in the women's prison and the other two are domestic. I start to ask why there must be continually graphic disturbing scenes. The author claims her books can be educative tools for her children and grandchildren about The Troubles. Adult children may be able to bear these scenes but though there is a warning at the start that the book contains scenes of torture and violence and descriptions of a sexual nature, I would not let young children near this book - it would be inappropriate. The series is either a thrilling adult novel (which educates at the same time) or educative reading for all ages but not both - unfortunately for this the review loses two stars. However, it's certainly gripping, especially for survivors of The Troubles but I am now becoming desperate for some hope and light as I move on to volume 3 and find more depressive scenes!
January 29, 2023
Just loving this series. Again.... unexpected twists and turns in volume two... things you won't see coming!! Thoroughly enjoyable & provoked fond memories of Derry/Londonderry. Beautifully written, in that this is not a 'one- sided' moan (for want of a better word) about The Troubles....rather The Troubles from different 'angles/considerations'. Couldn't wait for the third book. Thanks again.
January 18, 2024
Desperately devoured this book in quick succession to the first. My neighbour also read the book and said "she has a knack of giving you little reminders of the background without retelling the story" I completely agree!
April 20, 2022
An incredible continuation of the Stones Corner story. It just gets better and better. I can't wait for Stones Corner: Light!
September 29, 2021
I received an advanced copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. I really loved this novel.
This novel is set in the 1970s during The Troubles in Derry, Northern Ireland. It relates the city’s turmoil through a variety of point of views of different factions. It takes place soon after the first book in the series, “Turmoil”. Although the author does a good job of getting the reader up to speed with the characters and events, readers will have a better experience if they read the first book beforehand.
This novel is meticulously researched about the events during this time period, and the author did a brilliant job of weaving a plot from this complicated history. There was no obvious author bias when setting out events from varying points of view. Before reading this series, I only had a general knowledge of the 20th century Irish troubles. It certainly helped that I had read the first book to understand these times. I certainly wouldn’t have wanted to live in Derry in the 1970s!
The author really did a fantastic job of writing about individuals’ struggles through a huge cast of characters. The narrative changed frequently but it was not confusing. It felt that each character received enough time to have their story told. The characters felt very real, both the good and the bad ones.
Many of the characters weave together to culminate in an event, which is left as cliffhanger for the next book in the series. I don’t like books ending in a cliffhanger, but this one was fairly predictable.
I rate this book 4.5 stars (I rounded it up). It would have been a solid 5 stars except for the pesky cliffhanger at the end. I can’t wait until the next installment. If you are interested in this period of Irish history, this is a novel you should read.
This novel is set in the 1970s during The Troubles in Derry, Northern Ireland. It relates the city’s turmoil through a variety of point of views of different factions. It takes place soon after the first book in the series, “Turmoil”. Although the author does a good job of getting the reader up to speed with the characters and events, readers will have a better experience if they read the first book beforehand.
This novel is meticulously researched about the events during this time period, and the author did a brilliant job of weaving a plot from this complicated history. There was no obvious author bias when setting out events from varying points of view. Before reading this series, I only had a general knowledge of the 20th century Irish troubles. It certainly helped that I had read the first book to understand these times. I certainly wouldn’t have wanted to live in Derry in the 1970s!
The author really did a fantastic job of writing about individuals’ struggles through a huge cast of characters. The narrative changed frequently but it was not confusing. It felt that each character received enough time to have their story told. The characters felt very real, both the good and the bad ones.
Many of the characters weave together to culminate in an event, which is left as cliffhanger for the next book in the series. I don’t like books ending in a cliffhanger, but this one was fairly predictable.
I rate this book 4.5 stars (I rounded it up). It would have been a solid 5 stars except for the pesky cliffhanger at the end. I can’t wait until the next installment. If you are interested in this period of Irish history, this is a novel you should read.
September 19, 2023
Gripping, Emotional, Engaging.
I don't know about anyone else but when I read a series. I always take a break between each book normally. In the case of the Stones Corner series, Darkness is book two. The characters lived in my head between the books waiting for me to come back to them. 🙂
I absolutely love this series of books. Cliff hanger endings do always break my heart but they also get me so excited to read the next in the series. Light, the next installment of the series is on my shelf and I can't wait to dive back in. This book was a 4.5 star read for me. 🥰
The writing and crossover storylines are very well written. I don't want to give anything a way in regards to the storyline so I'd recommend checking out my review of Stones Corner Turmoil, book 1 in the series or checking them out on buythebook.ie which is where I purchased Light. 📕
Thank you to the author for the gifted copy of Darkness in exchange for an honest review. Looking forward to reading the last two books in the series. ❤️
I don't know about anyone else but when I read a series. I always take a break between each book normally. In the case of the Stones Corner series, Darkness is book two. The characters lived in my head between the books waiting for me to come back to them. 🙂
I absolutely love this series of books. Cliff hanger endings do always break my heart but they also get me so excited to read the next in the series. Light, the next installment of the series is on my shelf and I can't wait to dive back in. This book was a 4.5 star read for me. 🥰
The writing and crossover storylines are very well written. I don't want to give anything a way in regards to the storyline so I'd recommend checking out my review of Stones Corner Turmoil, book 1 in the series or checking them out on buythebook.ie which is where I purchased Light. 📕
Thank you to the author for the gifted copy of Darkness in exchange for an honest review. Looking forward to reading the last two books in the series. ❤️
November 14, 2021
Another absolutely brilliant book by Jane Buckley. I couldn't put this book down. It is so well written and goes into so much detail. It gives both sides of The Troubles in Ireland. Living in the UK when they were going on, we only got information of what was happening from the tv and papers. I have now seen a completely different interpretation of what went on. Really looking forward to the next book in this series.
February 1, 2025
Brilliant series
As a Derry girl myself I really enjoyed this series of books. I've never left a review on a book before but I was able to identify with so much in these books, would thoroughly recommend
As a Derry girl myself I really enjoyed this series of books. I've never left a review on a book before but I was able to identify with so much in these books, would thoroughly recommend
May 5, 2024
I’ve really enjoyed this series and feeling attached to the characters. This one felt like a nice way to finish it off and tie it all up, with a nice ending.
April 18, 2024
just finished volume 1, dove into volume 2, and lost track of time entirely! Jane Buckley’s Stones Corner series about Northern Ireland in the 1970s is a gripping read. You really need to start with book 1 to fully invested into book 2. See my post earlier in the week.
The characters and storylines are so well-crafted, it’s hard not to get drawn in. Jane’s ability to wrap up one storyline while introducing another keeps you hooked and thinking about what’s next. And then just as you think the story is unravelled she throws on another fast ball. Trust me, I’ve read a lot of crime and political thrillers, and this series holds its own.
Plus, there’s the romance aspect, which adds another layer of depth amidst all the challenges, violence and rawness of the time. It has a beautiful nievety to it.
Jane’s writing is totally authentic to a level that you had to live through it to create it. Seriously impressive.
Can’t wait to dive into volume 3, “Light”!
And hey, for the second time this week I’ve found my self reflecting that this make a great series or film? Calling all commissioning editors!
The characters and storylines are so well-crafted, it’s hard not to get drawn in. Jane’s ability to wrap up one storyline while introducing another keeps you hooked and thinking about what’s next. And then just as you think the story is unravelled she throws on another fast ball. Trust me, I’ve read a lot of crime and political thrillers, and this series holds its own.
Plus, there’s the romance aspect, which adds another layer of depth amidst all the challenges, violence and rawness of the time. It has a beautiful nievety to it.
Jane’s writing is totally authentic to a level that you had to live through it to create it. Seriously impressive.
Can’t wait to dive into volume 3, “Light”!
And hey, for the second time this week I’ve found my self reflecting that this make a great series or film? Calling all commissioning editors!
September 29, 2021
Thank goodness to get the next installment in the Stones Corner series- it was absolutely worth the wait!!! Once again, I could not put this book down as we find out what happens to our favourite characters after the explosive finale of Stones Corner- Turmoil.
The author weaves her magic by introducing new characters and plots without making the reader feel lost in the story line. The book has obviously been meticulously researched giving the reader an understanding of Derry's, and indeed Northern Ireland's, troubled past.
Be prepared for another emotional rollercoaster as the storyline unfolds and you get caught up in the lives of the familiar (and new) characters.
Once again, I'm left wanting more and I cannot wait for Stones Corner- Hope. Another fabulous offering from the author who's passion and love for Derry and it's people is clearly shown in this absolute page turner!! Well done!!!
The author weaves her magic by introducing new characters and plots without making the reader feel lost in the story line. The book has obviously been meticulously researched giving the reader an understanding of Derry's, and indeed Northern Ireland's, troubled past.
Be prepared for another emotional rollercoaster as the storyline unfolds and you get caught up in the lives of the familiar (and new) characters.
Once again, I'm left wanting more and I cannot wait for Stones Corner- Hope. Another fabulous offering from the author who's passion and love for Derry and it's people is clearly shown in this absolute page turner!! Well done!!!
October 2, 2021
"I was given the pleasure of reading the second book before it's launch. It's subtitled "Darkness" .
You have to read the books in order .
This one is much darker . The Nationalist community is under threat from a lot of angles and this is portrayed more in this book . The Darkness comes from the atmosphere starting to consume Northern Ireland and to a lesser extent the UK but in particular the Bogside in Derry/Londonderry . New characters emerge and the older ones are expanded .
Some passages of the book make for hard reading.
All seems negative to everyone but some are starting to see a glimmer of light towards the end of the book and we are again left in suspense at the end .
Bring on book number 3 ."
You have to read the books in order .
This one is much darker . The Nationalist community is under threat from a lot of angles and this is portrayed more in this book . The Darkness comes from the atmosphere starting to consume Northern Ireland and to a lesser extent the UK but in particular the Bogside in Derry/Londonderry . New characters emerge and the older ones are expanded .
Some passages of the book make for hard reading.
All seems negative to everyone but some are starting to see a glimmer of light towards the end of the book and we are again left in suspense at the end .
Bring on book number 3 ."
June 17, 2023
The second part of Caitlan's story set in the troubles in Derry. The harrowing but beautifully written story of a Derry family torn apart by the events around them. The story references many of the issues that I remember from growing up in Derry at this time. The memories of bad events and lovely times combined that were" the Derry way" at those times. The people's stories embroidered carefully on to the historic happenings is done in Jane's unique way as she explains the complications and contradictions of life at that time into what I can only describe as an intricate rich tapestry that took me on a journey into Catlin's world while also bringing back personal memories. An absolute masterpiece . Cant wait to get stuck into the next book to see where it takes me.
September 30, 2021
Having read the first book in this series of four, I couldn't wait to get my hands on this one and...it certainly did not disappoint!
It's a cracking story with well written characters. The multiple threads of the story are crafted with such skill. The last 20% of the book has sub-plots coming thick and fast and yet another cliffhanger ending which will keep us all coming back for more!
I for one cannot wait to read the final two books!
It's a cracking story with well written characters. The multiple threads of the story are crafted with such skill. The last 20% of the book has sub-plots coming thick and fast and yet another cliffhanger ending which will keep us all coming back for more!
I for one cannot wait to read the final two books!
March 21, 2022
I really wanted to read this book as it was the sequel to Turmoil, when I read it, as in Turmoil, was immediately captured from the 1st page. I couldn't leave the book down and really looked forward to picking it up again. Being from the city I was intrigued if I could relate. I was not disappointed and was shocked, surprised and had a lot of giggles. This is a must read for all who hail from the city. I loved it. Thank you Jane
December 3, 2021
Absolutely brilliant! So hard to put down at the end of each chapter, I was regularly thinking 'only one more chapter' before bed, but it quickly turned into two or more and the next minute an hour has flown by! Captivating storyline and CANNOT wait for the next instalment - fingers crossed we don't have to wait too long! Tell your friends!
January 7, 2023
Another fantastic book, hard hitting emotional journey with this one, but so well written and explained. Jane has a knack for writing an unbiased view of the troubles. I really felt like I knew the characters and even with additional characters being added it was easy to follow. well done Jane another amazing book! Now for No.3!!
November 25, 2023
This is just as good as the first. Just so interesting to read of the going ons of a previous era. Yet growing up so close to Derry and yet knew very little of the day to day life in the city. And yet so many points of interest and places that are all relatable and that I remember as a child. Looking forward to book 3 and 4. Thank you Jane. X
October 29, 2025
Can't wait to read book 4, a fantastic set of books written about the awful times in Irish history. Brilliantly written books about ordinary people trying to survive this difficult period in Irish history, with great compassion shown to all parties. Tough reading at times but a brilliant set of books, highly recommend them. anyone I have suggested these too have also gotten hooked.
October 13, 2021
Absolutely loved this book ! Even better than Turmoil, and I didn’t think Jane could top that …
The detail of a very troubled time in my country made me feel I was living there !
Can’t wait for the rest of the series !!
The detail of a very troubled time in my country made me feel I was living there !
Can’t wait for the rest of the series !!
November 3, 2021
OMG once again I could not put this book down. It's was so well written going from each character to the next character in every chapter. So easy to visualise with the amount of detailed description. Very dark in some scenes. I so can't wait for the next 2 books x
November 25, 2021
Like all of Jane Buckley's Fans I looked forward her 2nd Book ''Darkness'' after really enjoying her debut ''Turmoil''
I was not disappointed with the follow up. Keep up the good work. Book 3 will move us on to a better time and Jane will continue to keep us turning the pages
I was not disappointed with the follow up. Keep up the good work. Book 3 will move us on to a better time and Jane will continue to keep us turning the pages
February 15, 2022
A book club must ! As a resident of the city of Derry/Londonderry I must congratulate the author on capturing the atmosphere of the time and subsequent impact on the lives of the community .
Another page turner from Jane Buckley .
Another page turner from Jane Buckley .
December 27, 2022
Just finished this one, a continuation of turmoil & it didn't disappoint, loved it, always keeping you wanting to know what's happening next & there being a cliffhanger for the final one which I've just received, can't wait to get stuck into this, a great read.
April 5, 2023
This book gripped me from start to finish. It stepped into a whole new gear from the first book! It was brilliant to see all the different characters with their storylines and follow their progress from the first book. A completely eye opening book of the times that continues to give.
November 11, 2021
Every bit as good as turmoil, i could not put it down, cant wait for next book in this series
April 9, 2022
Not my review but from a reader this morning! Honest :)
"My mum finished the two books and said they're the best stories she's ever read! She can't wait for the third one! 5*"
"My mum finished the two books and said they're the best stories she's ever read! She can't wait for the third one! 5*"
November 29, 2022
Fabulous. Great story. When will volume 3 be out
Displaying 1 - 30 of 42 reviews