What do you think?
Rate this book
Skylark
'Alice O'Keeffe deftly renders the shocking truth of the spy cops scandal into a moving tale of love, identity and betrayal. Essential reading.' - Jake Arnott
Their ideals brought them together, but how closely should you follow your heart?
It's the mid-90s, and rebellion is in the air.
Skylark is an activist, a raver, a tree-dweller, a world-changer.
Handsome, dependable Dan appears on the scene, offering her the security she has never had. When they fall in love, she shows him a new way to live; he will never be the same.
But Dan has a secret, which Skylark must never, ever know.
A secret so powerful that its fault-lines run from their ordinary council flat right up to the highest echelons of the state.
Their story is the story of Britain's undercover police.
As Skylark comes to doubt not only Dan's commitment to their shared ideals, but his very identity, she finds herself asking: can you ever really know the person you love?
Their ideals brought them together, but how closely should you follow your heart?
It's the mid-90s, and rebellion is in the air.
Skylark is an activist, a raver, a tree-dweller, a world-changer.
Handsome, dependable Dan appears on the scene, offering her the security she has never had. When they fall in love, she shows him a new way to live; he will never be the same.
But Dan has a secret, which Skylark must never, ever know.
A secret so powerful that its fault-lines run from their ordinary council flat right up to the highest echelons of the state.
Their story is the story of Britain's undercover police.
As Skylark comes to doubt not only Dan's commitment to their shared ideals, but his very identity, she finds herself asking: can you ever really know the person you love?
- GenresFiction
406 pages, Paperback
Published June 9, 2022
7 people are currently reading
150 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews
October 3, 2021
4.5
This novel is inspired by real historical events with the names of those involved changed. In the mid 90’s The Special Demonstration Squad, a group of undercover metropolitan police officers infiltrated certain groups with some devastating consequences especially for some women. Daniel is UCO122, his task is to infiltrate a group run by ‘Rev’ which includes his close friend Skylark. They are a group of idealists and environmental protestors who want to change the world in their own unique way via raves, street parties and so on. Rev beliefs changing the world should be engaging and fun. The first encounter between Dan and warrior queen Skylark fizzes with an electrical charge between them and soon they are a couple. This is an acutely observed and beautifully written story of lies and betrayal.
I really like the way that Alice O’Keefe writes, she has a seemingly effortless way of pulling you into the storytelling and keeping you glued to pages. In this one you go through a whole journey of emotions and experience different moods along the way. In places it’s quite funny or wry with characters such as Sky’s marvellous mum making you smile. However, as the plot progresses things change and the tone becomes much darker which is seen clearly via some characters especially Dan and as Rev’s group becomes subsumed by extreme and more militant groups which mirrors exactly what happens in environmental activism. The impact of all the change on Sk’s relationship with Dan makes you feel sad, some anger as you keenly sense her confusion, fear and grief as her world tumbles as a house of cards. One can only imagine her turmoil once the operation is closed down. The stress and mental strain of undercover work is conveyed well too. All the characters involved are keenly observed, even minor players are deftly crafted. The writing throughout is vivid and often very colourful especially at the beginning as you see meetings, encounters or events happening as if in front of your very eyes. I love how the author uses capital letters to Reinforce Important Points (often with dry humour) and similarly with joining up words to suggestanidea!
Overall, the concept of the novel is excellent and you finish reading with an understanding of the impact of undercover operations on all lives involved. It’s depicts rapidly changing times both in the national and international environmental movement but also politically in the UK. It’s a very thought provoking, well researched and compelling book of worlds colliding and lives which will never be the same.
If you are interested to know more about the Special Demonstration Squad there are a number of good articles online such as The Guardian Newspaper and the BBC news website.
With thanks to NetGalley and especially to Hodder and Stoughton/Coronet for the much appreciated arc in return for an honest review.
This novel is inspired by real historical events with the names of those involved changed. In the mid 90’s The Special Demonstration Squad, a group of undercover metropolitan police officers infiltrated certain groups with some devastating consequences especially for some women. Daniel is UCO122, his task is to infiltrate a group run by ‘Rev’ which includes his close friend Skylark. They are a group of idealists and environmental protestors who want to change the world in their own unique way via raves, street parties and so on. Rev beliefs changing the world should be engaging and fun. The first encounter between Dan and warrior queen Skylark fizzes with an electrical charge between them and soon they are a couple. This is an acutely observed and beautifully written story of lies and betrayal.
I really like the way that Alice O’Keefe writes, she has a seemingly effortless way of pulling you into the storytelling and keeping you glued to pages. In this one you go through a whole journey of emotions and experience different moods along the way. In places it’s quite funny or wry with characters such as Sky’s marvellous mum making you smile. However, as the plot progresses things change and the tone becomes much darker which is seen clearly via some characters especially Dan and as Rev’s group becomes subsumed by extreme and more militant groups which mirrors exactly what happens in environmental activism. The impact of all the change on Sk’s relationship with Dan makes you feel sad, some anger as you keenly sense her confusion, fear and grief as her world tumbles as a house of cards. One can only imagine her turmoil once the operation is closed down. The stress and mental strain of undercover work is conveyed well too. All the characters involved are keenly observed, even minor players are deftly crafted. The writing throughout is vivid and often very colourful especially at the beginning as you see meetings, encounters or events happening as if in front of your very eyes. I love how the author uses capital letters to Reinforce Important Points (often with dry humour) and similarly with joining up words to suggestanidea!
Overall, the concept of the novel is excellent and you finish reading with an understanding of the impact of undercover operations on all lives involved. It’s depicts rapidly changing times both in the national and international environmental movement but also politically in the UK. It’s a very thought provoking, well researched and compelling book of worlds colliding and lives which will never be the same.
If you are interested to know more about the Special Demonstration Squad there are a number of good articles online such as The Guardian Newspaper and the BBC news website.
With thanks to NetGalley and especially to Hodder and Stoughton/Coronet for the much appreciated arc in return for an honest review.
November 3, 2021
The story of an undercover policeman infiltrating a protest group in the 90s and the complications it entails as he falls in love and has a child while all the time working undercover.
Based on true events, this book potters along without any real peaks or surprises. It’s tells the story from both sides but there’s nothing really here that surprising or revealing.
It’s a decent enough read but there’s something missing that I can’t quite put my finger on. Maybe the story itself which kind of just meanders on without a lot happening.
Thanks to the publisher for the ARC through Netgalley.
Based on true events, this book potters along without any real peaks or surprises. It’s tells the story from both sides but there’s nothing really here that surprising or revealing.
It’s a decent enough read but there’s something missing that I can’t quite put my finger on. Maybe the story itself which kind of just meanders on without a lot happening.
Thanks to the publisher for the ARC through Netgalley.
October 7, 2021
Thank you, Hodder, and Stoughton, for a copy Skylark by Alice O’Keefe.
Based on actual events the story centres around The Special Demonstration squad. Police Officers who went undercover and infiltrated protesters in the 1990’s.
Don’t get me wrong this is a well written story and its not a bad book. But I am not the targeted audience for this book and it wouldn’t be fair to give a proper review so I DNF’d this book at 37%.
Based on actual events the story centres around The Special Demonstration squad. Police Officers who went undercover and infiltrated protesters in the 1990’s.
Don’t get me wrong this is a well written story and its not a bad book. But I am not the targeted audience for this book and it wouldn’t be fair to give a proper review so I DNF’d this book at 37%.
November 15, 2021
It's the mid-nineties and a rebellion in in the air. Skylark is an activist, a raver, a tree-dweller, a world-changer. Handsome dependable Dan appears on the scene, offering her the security she has never had. When they fall in love, she shows him a new way to live; he will never be the same. But Dan has a secret, which Skylark must never know.
What an interesting book this was to read. A story about an undercover police officer who forma a relationship with the person they are meant to be watching.
Skylark is an activist. Dan joins them and quickly becomes accepted. Skylark is a free spirit. Dan and Skylark quickly become a couple and have a baby boy. We learn of the experiences of both the protestors and the police. At first, I did not think I was going to enjoy this book but I ended up loving it.
I would like to thank #NetGalley #HadderStoughton and the author #AliceOkeeffe for my ARC of #Skylark in exchange for an honest review.
What an interesting book this was to read. A story about an undercover police officer who forma a relationship with the person they are meant to be watching.
Skylark is an activist. Dan joins them and quickly becomes accepted. Skylark is a free spirit. Dan and Skylark quickly become a couple and have a baby boy. We learn of the experiences of both the protestors and the police. At first, I did not think I was going to enjoy this book but I ended up loving it.
I would like to thank #NetGalley #HadderStoughton and the author #AliceOkeeffe for my ARC of #Skylark in exchange for an honest review.
November 12, 2021
Having really enjoyed this author’s debut On The Up my expectations for Alice O’Keeffe’s latest novel were sky high. Skylark is based upon true events involving the infiltration of anti-road campaign groups by operatives of the SDS (Special Demonstration Squad) during the 1990’s. Some of their targets were women, who were manipulated and duped into relationships as a way of eliciting details of upcoming protests and subsequently derailing the group’s plans. In this novel it is the eco warrior world changing group led by The Rev whose aim to reclaim the streets via parties and raves, taking over motorways but in a peaceful if somewhat chaotic, colourful manner that is the subject of a covert operation. Childhood friend of The Rev, Skylark McCoy is a veteran of the group, a warrior queen who misses the squats and the camps of their former protesting days who upon meeting Daniel Greene otherwise known as UCO122 is immediately smitten. This is the story of their relationship from Skylark’s perspective, interspersed occasionally with conversations between UCO122 and his superior. It’s a tale of love, lies and betrayal, of subterfuge and lives built upon sand and it’s a piece of fiction that is immensely readable.
After a brief struggle to immerse myself in the lives of this bunch of idealistic well meaning individuals I then whizzed through the remainder of the book horrified as I bore witness to the duplicity at play. Alice O’Keeffe writes with passion and integrity, her personal connection to the subject matter adding another dimension to her storytelling, enabling you to fully appreciate the wretchedness of the situation Skylark eventually finds herself in. It’s clear from the outset that this is a book written from the heart. To me it felt as if Alice O’Keeffe has given up a piece of her soul in bringing this woman and those around her to life so that you view these characters as real individuals with real feelings rather than anonymous faceless figures featuring in newspaper articles. However emotive and serious the reimagining of this slice of history becomes the author brings her wonderful sardonic wit to the pages, juggling this particular political hot potato with both humour and candour.
I loved having a ringside seat at the group’s meetings in which ideas are bandied about, some more zanier and alternative than others but which are always well intentioned. These scenes whilst a source of amusement and laughter bathe these characters in a favourable light however subversive their behaviour. In my opinion this makes it all the more tragic that as time marches on the group dynamic radically changes with the arrival of all the Gazzes and the Jezzes, the anarchist Eds and the violent Angry Men. Sadly this just reflects the changing political climate the world over, the increased use of violence a byproduct of those hijacking groups like the ones led by The Rev who at heart is a peace loving gentle soul.
Aside from the politics, the tripping out and the laughter yoga this novel is all about relationships, including the evolving wonderful friendship between The Rev and Skylark and her gradual withdrawal from life as a protester, her focus and priorities shifting the deeper she becomes entangled with Daniel. Alice O’Keeffe embraces themes of love, betrayal and motherhood, themes which are the fabric of everyday life and which will resonate with many. She observes the dynamics of the relationship between Skylark and Daniel, who hail from completely opposite sides of the track, with acuity, leading you to ask the question of how well can you ever really know someone you love. The free spirited Skylark is already feeling hemmed in by the pressures of working and paying rent when she first encounters Daniel. As an outsider looking in you might wonder at Skylark’s naivety as their relationship develops until you realise this woman is a perfect example of how love changes everything. It makes Skylark blind to the obvious, tethering her and subconsciously forcing her to put down more roots, binding her to a way of life that she possibly never envisaged for herself, especially once she has more than her own needs to consider. Having escaped the stifling childhood confines of Henfield and Mother she has no desire to turn into a Tupperware loving woman concerned only by parking conditions and the progress of her dahlias! It’s these references peppered throughout the narrative that add levity to an otherwise thought provoking, eye opening and scandalous scenario. As with any relationship in which one side appears more invested than the other (for whatever reason) you really feel for Skylark whose doubts, uncertainties and suspicions build over time as Daniel continues to give off very mixed signals. Her hurt and confusion are palpable. You want Skylark to lift her head from the sand and shake off her unwillingness and inertia to seek the truth even though it’s all too late. I felt anger towards those responsible for her callous almost casual abandonment, left living with whys and what ifs, causing so much unnecessary pain, anguish and suffering. I felt slightly heartened by the fact The Rev, Bendy Aoife and Mother feature heavily in Skylark’s future.
By no means excusing the actions of these undercover operatives the author does force you to consider the opposition’s perspective. The pressure placed upon Daniel from those higher up in the chain of command is keenly felt in the snippets of conversation between the officers, a pressure that only intensifies the deeper UCO122 becomes embroiled in the group’s activities. He is a man feeling the immense strain of keeping his true identity a secret, facing an impossible task of preventing his professional life from overlapping with his personal one the minute he takes the decision to embark on a relationship with Skylark. But ultimately it’s his conscious choice to blur the boundaries and although he too is a victim of sorts it’s unforgivable that his actions result in a multitude of casualties, and innocent victims at that.
Alice O’ Keeffe is an incredibly talented writer. I love that you can’t pigeonhole this novel into any one genre either which is so refreshing. Emotive, immersive and eye opening this is a novel that will linger in your thoughts. Although initially I wasn’t sure if I was going to enjoy this novel I ended up loving it. Skylark’s story touched me deeply. I just hope I don’t have to wait another two years before this author dazzles me with her brilliance again!
I extend my heartfelt thanks to the publisher Hodder & Stoughton and Netgalley for giving me the opportunity to read in exchange for an honest review.
After a brief struggle to immerse myself in the lives of this bunch of idealistic well meaning individuals I then whizzed through the remainder of the book horrified as I bore witness to the duplicity at play. Alice O’Keeffe writes with passion and integrity, her personal connection to the subject matter adding another dimension to her storytelling, enabling you to fully appreciate the wretchedness of the situation Skylark eventually finds herself in. It’s clear from the outset that this is a book written from the heart. To me it felt as if Alice O’Keeffe has given up a piece of her soul in bringing this woman and those around her to life so that you view these characters as real individuals with real feelings rather than anonymous faceless figures featuring in newspaper articles. However emotive and serious the reimagining of this slice of history becomes the author brings her wonderful sardonic wit to the pages, juggling this particular political hot potato with both humour and candour.
I loved having a ringside seat at the group’s meetings in which ideas are bandied about, some more zanier and alternative than others but which are always well intentioned. These scenes whilst a source of amusement and laughter bathe these characters in a favourable light however subversive their behaviour. In my opinion this makes it all the more tragic that as time marches on the group dynamic radically changes with the arrival of all the Gazzes and the Jezzes, the anarchist Eds and the violent Angry Men. Sadly this just reflects the changing political climate the world over, the increased use of violence a byproduct of those hijacking groups like the ones led by The Rev who at heart is a peace loving gentle soul.
Aside from the politics, the tripping out and the laughter yoga this novel is all about relationships, including the evolving wonderful friendship between The Rev and Skylark and her gradual withdrawal from life as a protester, her focus and priorities shifting the deeper she becomes entangled with Daniel. Alice O’Keeffe embraces themes of love, betrayal and motherhood, themes which are the fabric of everyday life and which will resonate with many. She observes the dynamics of the relationship between Skylark and Daniel, who hail from completely opposite sides of the track, with acuity, leading you to ask the question of how well can you ever really know someone you love. The free spirited Skylark is already feeling hemmed in by the pressures of working and paying rent when she first encounters Daniel. As an outsider looking in you might wonder at Skylark’s naivety as their relationship develops until you realise this woman is a perfect example of how love changes everything. It makes Skylark blind to the obvious, tethering her and subconsciously forcing her to put down more roots, binding her to a way of life that she possibly never envisaged for herself, especially once she has more than her own needs to consider. Having escaped the stifling childhood confines of Henfield and Mother she has no desire to turn into a Tupperware loving woman concerned only by parking conditions and the progress of her dahlias! It’s these references peppered throughout the narrative that add levity to an otherwise thought provoking, eye opening and scandalous scenario. As with any relationship in which one side appears more invested than the other (for whatever reason) you really feel for Skylark whose doubts, uncertainties and suspicions build over time as Daniel continues to give off very mixed signals. Her hurt and confusion are palpable. You want Skylark to lift her head from the sand and shake off her unwillingness and inertia to seek the truth even though it’s all too late. I felt anger towards those responsible for her callous almost casual abandonment, left living with whys and what ifs, causing so much unnecessary pain, anguish and suffering. I felt slightly heartened by the fact The Rev, Bendy Aoife and Mother feature heavily in Skylark’s future.
By no means excusing the actions of these undercover operatives the author does force you to consider the opposition’s perspective. The pressure placed upon Daniel from those higher up in the chain of command is keenly felt in the snippets of conversation between the officers, a pressure that only intensifies the deeper UCO122 becomes embroiled in the group’s activities. He is a man feeling the immense strain of keeping his true identity a secret, facing an impossible task of preventing his professional life from overlapping with his personal one the minute he takes the decision to embark on a relationship with Skylark. But ultimately it’s his conscious choice to blur the boundaries and although he too is a victim of sorts it’s unforgivable that his actions result in a multitude of casualties, and innocent victims at that.
Alice O’ Keeffe is an incredibly talented writer. I love that you can’t pigeonhole this novel into any one genre either which is so refreshing. Emotive, immersive and eye opening this is a novel that will linger in your thoughts. Although initially I wasn’t sure if I was going to enjoy this novel I ended up loving it. Skylark’s story touched me deeply. I just hope I don’t have to wait another two years before this author dazzles me with her brilliance again!
I extend my heartfelt thanks to the publisher Hodder & Stoughton and Netgalley for giving me the opportunity to read in exchange for an honest review.
July 5, 2022
Wow what a great book! I listened to the audio book and the performance is brilliant. The story is really great, I couldn't get enough.
The fact that this happened is absolutely crazy? A glowing 5*
The fact that this happened is absolutely crazy? A glowing 5*
October 23, 2021
I found this book really interesting. I had vaguely read about undercover officers forming relationships but this book went into more detail about what that would actually entail.
Skylark is an activist with an eclectic groups of friends. Dan joins them, offering the use of his van, and soon becomes completely accepted and ingrained. We know all along that Dan is not who he says and this makes some of the decisions he makes really puzzling eg not using contraception. That really didn’t make Sense to me at all!
I enjoyed finding out more of how this scenario worked and found Sky a very likeable character. Dan, less so. I felt the book was nicely written and it was well paced. It’s a solid 4 stars in my opinion. Thank you to NetGalley and the publishers for my copy of this book.
Skylark is an activist with an eclectic groups of friends. Dan joins them, offering the use of his van, and soon becomes completely accepted and ingrained. We know all along that Dan is not who he says and this makes some of the decisions he makes really puzzling eg not using contraception. That really didn’t make Sense to me at all!
I enjoyed finding out more of how this scenario worked and found Sky a very likeable character. Dan, less so. I felt the book was nicely written and it was well paced. It’s a solid 4 stars in my opinion. Thank you to NetGalley and the publishers for my copy of this book.
October 29, 2021
The scandal of undercover police infiltrating groups, forming relationships and having children with their targets has been around for a few years now. It is undoubtedly a horrendous situation for all involved, one that you would be right in shouting 'What were they thinking?'. This book tries to explain the situation from the side of the target, the undercover officer and the police force. I am not sure that there is any great revelation apart from it was a mess and no one shouted stop as the boundaries kept being pushed so that no one could remember where the line was anymore.
It is a readable book, I was invested in the characters and I whipped through it. However it is missing something, perhaps a little bit of soul - it read too much like a school project where you have to research a topic and then write how you would if you were involved.
It is a readable book, I was invested in the characters and I whipped through it. However it is missing something, perhaps a little bit of soul - it read too much like a school project where you have to research a topic and then write how you would if you were involved.
July 12, 2023
Excellent book, I remember hearing about this on the news and found it so shocking, it was hard to believe! Thanks to this wonderful author I see exactly how it happened.
November 17, 2021
This is based on the truth that came out not too long ago regarding undercover cops and the shenanigans they got up to when they infiltrated gangs and activist groups in the mid 90s. I had vaguely heard of this prior to starting this book but I wasn't prepared for what I was about to read.
Skylark is an activist - we hear how she got to where she is when we first meet her in flashback during the book - and she is part of an organisation. One that is quite active in trying to change the world for the better. One day, they are joined at their meeting by Dan, a newbie with a van (a definite plus), who wants to join. Sky and Dan become close, closer than Dan should get - that's definitely not in the job description. See, Dan is an undercover cop, tasked with infiltrating and reporting back.
Taking Dan's profession aside for a moment, this is an extremely well written book which details the kind of group and activism that was prevalent in the 90s. Not so different to what is happening today to be honest, we haven't go very far sadly, have we? Anyway, we follow Sky and Rev and their group as it grows and becomes more of a noise, attracting the attention of the authorities. The metropolitan police, no less. And they decide to send in a UCO to stir things up and report back. So, Dan... handsome, nice, dependable, married with young kids, Dan. Who does more than infiltrate - so shocking - I really didn't realise quite the depth of the undercover work that was going on. Lines crossed. And the most heinous of crimes committed. Morally if not actually legally. Jeez! Which meant that I really did feel for Sky. All the way through. I get that love knows no bounds, and that there is a burden of responsibility, but the way Dan was handled... well...
Love, lies, betrayal, activism, flashback to the 90s, I can go on listing things I loved about this book. The characters were excellent - every one, even those with very small parts. They all came across as very real. The incidents described re the activism were also well described and the whole story peppered with flashbacks to how certain characters came to be where they were when we first met them.
All in all, a cracking read that opened my eyes up to something I had previously just glossed over. There's a wealth of extra curricular reading to be found on the internet if you want to go deeper. I'm definitely going to do that!
My thanks go to the Publisher and Netgalley for the chance to read this book.
Skylark is an activist - we hear how she got to where she is when we first meet her in flashback during the book - and she is part of an organisation. One that is quite active in trying to change the world for the better. One day, they are joined at their meeting by Dan, a newbie with a van (a definite plus), who wants to join. Sky and Dan become close, closer than Dan should get - that's definitely not in the job description. See, Dan is an undercover cop, tasked with infiltrating and reporting back.
Taking Dan's profession aside for a moment, this is an extremely well written book which details the kind of group and activism that was prevalent in the 90s. Not so different to what is happening today to be honest, we haven't go very far sadly, have we? Anyway, we follow Sky and Rev and their group as it grows and becomes more of a noise, attracting the attention of the authorities. The metropolitan police, no less. And they decide to send in a UCO to stir things up and report back. So, Dan... handsome, nice, dependable, married with young kids, Dan. Who does more than infiltrate - so shocking - I really didn't realise quite the depth of the undercover work that was going on. Lines crossed. And the most heinous of crimes committed. Morally if not actually legally. Jeez! Which meant that I really did feel for Sky. All the way through. I get that love knows no bounds, and that there is a burden of responsibility, but the way Dan was handled... well...
Love, lies, betrayal, activism, flashback to the 90s, I can go on listing things I loved about this book. The characters were excellent - every one, even those with very small parts. They all came across as very real. The incidents described re the activism were also well described and the whole story peppered with flashbacks to how certain characters came to be where they were when we first met them.
All in all, a cracking read that opened my eyes up to something I had previously just glossed over. There's a wealth of extra curricular reading to be found on the internet if you want to go deeper. I'm definitely going to do that!
My thanks go to the Publisher and Netgalley for the chance to read this book.
October 9, 2021
My worry for this book, and other books based on real life events, is that they will end up being overly dramatic and exaggerate events for the sake of entertainment and making a book more exciting.
This was definitely not the case here. Not that I am saying the book wasn't exciting - it was - but it was more in an understated way. The story was told subtly and was clearly well researched and a topic which the author was passionate about.
The story follows Skylark (Sky) who is a campaigner in a political group aiming to change the world. A new member joins the group (Dan) who builds a relationship and life with Sky however Dan is actually an undercover police officer aiming to give the police a head start in dealing with the political protests.
It's a brilliant story and gives a realistic perspective not only for Sky but also Dan and the struggles he went through. Whilst it is difficult to sympathise with Dan given what he does through the novel, I couldn't also help but empathise with an incredibly difficult position he was placed in and the impact it had upon him.
Would definitely recommend to everyone with an interest in this topic or who is familiar with the real life story.
Thanks to Hodder and Stoughton, Coronet as well as Netgalley for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
This was definitely not the case here. Not that I am saying the book wasn't exciting - it was - but it was more in an understated way. The story was told subtly and was clearly well researched and a topic which the author was passionate about.
The story follows Skylark (Sky) who is a campaigner in a political group aiming to change the world. A new member joins the group (Dan) who builds a relationship and life with Sky however Dan is actually an undercover police officer aiming to give the police a head start in dealing with the political protests.
It's a brilliant story and gives a realistic perspective not only for Sky but also Dan and the struggles he went through. Whilst it is difficult to sympathise with Dan given what he does through the novel, I couldn't also help but empathise with an incredibly difficult position he was placed in and the impact it had upon him.
Would definitely recommend to everyone with an interest in this topic or who is familiar with the real life story.
Thanks to Hodder and Stoughton, Coronet as well as Netgalley for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
March 11, 2022
As usual in my reviews, I will not rehash the plot (there are other reviews like that out there already if that's what you are looking for).
This was an interesting read, apparently based on real events. There are some interesting characters - some, it has to be said, felt rather stereotypical (and indeed several reminded me of people I met years ago when I worked for a charity in London!), but they were well written nonetheless.
Overall the book made me feel rather sad, as the lives of both Sky and Dan (the main characters) - not to mention their wider families - were deeply affected. It was interesting to see how both characters gradually changed their points of view due to their relationship. It was painful to read about Sky's distress when the truth was "helpfully" pointed out to her by an old flame (though she had obviously suspected Dan of something along the way). It was also clear that Dan was not a heartless swine and had suffered too.
The relationships between Sky, Louie, Rev and Co (and indeed Sky's Mother) were also very well written and believable.
My thanks to NetGalley and the publishers for an ARC. All opinions my own.
This was an interesting read, apparently based on real events. There are some interesting characters - some, it has to be said, felt rather stereotypical (and indeed several reminded me of people I met years ago when I worked for a charity in London!), but they were well written nonetheless.
Overall the book made me feel rather sad, as the lives of both Sky and Dan (the main characters) - not to mention their wider families - were deeply affected. It was interesting to see how both characters gradually changed their points of view due to their relationship. It was painful to read about Sky's distress when the truth was "helpfully" pointed out to her by an old flame (though she had obviously suspected Dan of something along the way). It was also clear that Dan was not a heartless swine and had suffered too.
The relationships between Sky, Louie, Rev and Co (and indeed Sky's Mother) were also very well written and believable.
My thanks to NetGalley and the publishers for an ARC. All opinions my own.
November 9, 2021
Skylark is based on real events which took place in the 90's in the UK. Police were operating undercover and infiltrating protest groups with the aim of disrupting their activities.
Skylark is a free spirit who glides through life alongside her eclectic friends until she meets Dan, the undercover policeofficer. They begin a life together, despite his existing family, which results in the birth of a baby boy. Dan then vanishes.
This is a beautifully written novel which really captures the atmosphere of the time. It's an honest exploration of the experiences of both the protesters and the police. Whilst my sympathy is with Sky I had some empathy with Dan who is just following orders but became far too human.
The way in which the story develops is cleverly told. The interviews between Dan and his handler are very illuminating. The research which went into creating this book is impressive. I would definitely recommend Skylark.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Hodder and Stoughton for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Skylark is a free spirit who glides through life alongside her eclectic friends until she meets Dan, the undercover policeofficer. They begin a life together, despite his existing family, which results in the birth of a baby boy. Dan then vanishes.
This is a beautifully written novel which really captures the atmosphere of the time. It's an honest exploration of the experiences of both the protesters and the police. Whilst my sympathy is with Sky I had some empathy with Dan who is just following orders but became far too human.
The way in which the story develops is cleverly told. The interviews between Dan and his handler are very illuminating. The research which went into creating this book is impressive. I would definitely recommend Skylark.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Hodder and Stoughton for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
November 25, 2021
Skylark by Alice O'Keeffe is an eye opening glimpse into a shocking police scandal that took place within my lifetime. The titular character Skylark is an environmental activist, and alongside her childhood friend and a very mixed bag of other activists, she is involved in planning and participating in demonstrations to try to highlight the environmental damage and destruction of the increasing development of the city, The movement is starting to gain traction and in an attempt to "know the enemy" the police decide to send in an undercover operative. Enter charming and affable Dan who carefully weasels his way into the group, and soon begins to fall for Skylark despite being married in real life and having new twin boys. As he continues to dig deeper into his role, he begins to lose clarity about what he is really doing, and what lines he should be careful not to cross, and almost inevitably he takes things too far. When his superiors find out, and pull him out of the operation immediately the consequences are disastrous for everyone involved.
This was a fascinating story, and the knowledge that it was inspired by real events made it all the more disturbing. I felt for Skylark, her relationship with Dan was a lie from the beginning and it was always doomed. While the book shows that Dan did not avoid fallout from his actions, it was less easy to feel for him as so many of his actions were selfish and thoughtless.
I read and reviewed an ARC courtesy of NetGalley and the Publisher, all opinions are my own.
This was a fascinating story, and the knowledge that it was inspired by real events made it all the more disturbing. I felt for Skylark, her relationship with Dan was a lie from the beginning and it was always doomed. While the book shows that Dan did not avoid fallout from his actions, it was less easy to feel for him as so many of his actions were selfish and thoughtless.
I read and reviewed an ARC courtesy of NetGalley and the Publisher, all opinions are my own.
November 25, 2021
I grew up in the 80s and 90s, with a background of raves and alternative culture all around, in the media and on the news. 'Skylark' is set against this background, with a passionate community of people hoping to change the world and stop roads being built, hoping that society will learn to focus more on people and creativity instead. The book starts as they are planning a big street party/ road closure; a new volunteer, Dan, joins the group and quickly becomes part of the core planning group. He and Skylark start getting closer and develop a relationship, but as readers, we know that he's not what he's pretending to be, and is actually part of a secretive undercover police team infiltrating counter cultures.
Expertly researched and written with love and compassion for her subject, I really enjoyed reading Skylark and thinking about the world that might have happened without police involvement.
Expertly researched and written with love and compassion for her subject, I really enjoyed reading Skylark and thinking about the world that might have happened without police involvement.
December 4, 2021
From the day home counties schoolgirl Lilian met the wild and eccentric people who inhabited the local common she found her way in life. Now, after years spend living in trees and protesting across the country, Skylark is settling into her first flat. One day at a meeting she meets Dan and the attraction is instant, he's handsome, strong and stable but shares her passion for changing the world. As they grow closer Skylark still has a shred of doubt, but is it misplaced, is Dan as good as he seems?
This book is based on a scandalous story in which undercover police infiltrated environmentalist groups. Many of the police formed intimate relationships with the women they were spying on and several had children before 'disappearing'. Here the story of one of these women is imagined in a fictionalised account which is both passionate and very sympathetic to both sides. It is emotive and anger-provoking and an excellent read.
This book is based on a scandalous story in which undercover police infiltrated environmentalist groups. Many of the police formed intimate relationships with the women they were spying on and several had children before 'disappearing'. Here the story of one of these women is imagined in a fictionalised account which is both passionate and very sympathetic to both sides. It is emotive and anger-provoking and an excellent read.
April 18, 2022
Skylark is an activist living on the fringes of 'acceptable' society. She had a job, a flat. But she also participates and organises in peaceful protests with a bunch of like minded friends. When Dan joins the group he changes her life. Whilst he has the same ideals he's far more dependable than previous men she's known. He gives her security she's never known. But he's not what he seems. Dan is an undercover police officer, there to spy on her group. And as she falls in love Skylark has no idea who she's involved with.
I'd been aware of the undercover police scandal for awhile and frankly was shocked at every aspect of it. But reading a news story and then a book like this are very different experiences. Whilst entirely fictional it gives a voice to the experiences of not only the deceived but also the deceivers. It's a well told and sensitive portrayal and very even handed. But most of all it's really thought provoking, this is a story that will stay with me for a long time.
I'd been aware of the undercover police scandal for awhile and frankly was shocked at every aspect of it. But reading a news story and then a book like this are very different experiences. Whilst entirely fictional it gives a voice to the experiences of not only the deceived but also the deceivers. It's a well told and sensitive portrayal and very even handed. But most of all it's really thought provoking, this is a story that will stay with me for a long time.
November 7, 2021
There’s some content in here (and potential spoilers) that some readers might want to be aware of - so check at the end for more information.
Inspired by real events, this one had me gripped as you follow Skylark (Sky) as a free spirit and activist as she embarks on a relationship with her new boyfriend Dan. The only problem is - he’s got a huge secret.
You learn about Dan’s secret pretty much from the start and I’ll admit it’s not something I was aware or informed of. But it has been in the news recently - so very timely. I loved how you watch the story of Dan’s secret play out during his secret life compared to his life with Sky. And it was great seeing how not only did Sky change him, he changed her.
There were some moments in their relationship that made me want to throttle Dan because of the choices he made in their relationship, but you also see the impact of the secret on his own health and wellbeing, his loved ones and of course Sky.
⚠️Content warning/potential spoilers: there’s drug use, domestic abuse and mental health. ⚠️
Inspired by real events, this one had me gripped as you follow Skylark (Sky) as a free spirit and activist as she embarks on a relationship with her new boyfriend Dan. The only problem is - he’s got a huge secret.
You learn about Dan’s secret pretty much from the start and I’ll admit it’s not something I was aware or informed of. But it has been in the news recently - so very timely. I loved how you watch the story of Dan’s secret play out during his secret life compared to his life with Sky. And it was great seeing how not only did Sky change him, he changed her.
There were some moments in their relationship that made me want to throttle Dan because of the choices he made in their relationship, but you also see the impact of the secret on his own health and wellbeing, his loved ones and of course Sky.
⚠️Content warning/potential spoilers: there’s drug use, domestic abuse and mental health. ⚠️
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 22, 2021
I'm speechless and I found hard to review this book because it's full of food for thought and I think I'm still trying to sort my thoughts.
It's a riveting, interesting and gripping story. I loved the style of writing and I loved how the author developed the characters.
It's a story of love, betrayal, politics and the depiction of an era. I loved Skylark and her friends, it was great to read about their lifestyle, their passion and ideas.
I also appreciated Dan even if I found hard to like him. He's a man of shared loyalties and sometimes I wondered why he accepted to spy on her friend.
The style of writing and the storytelling are excellent.
Highly recommended.
Many thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for this ARC, all opinions are mine
It's a riveting, interesting and gripping story. I loved the style of writing and I loved how the author developed the characters.
It's a story of love, betrayal, politics and the depiction of an era. I loved Skylark and her friends, it was great to read about their lifestyle, their passion and ideas.
I also appreciated Dan even if I found hard to like him. He's a man of shared loyalties and sometimes I wondered why he accepted to spy on her friend.
The style of writing and the storytelling are excellent.
Highly recommended.
Many thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for this ARC, all opinions are mine
December 14, 2021
I really struggled to get into this book, but by the end it redeemed itself as the characters matured. Whoever wrote the blurb needs to be sacked off as it doesn’t do the book justice at all (any wonder it’s not got a wider readership already) and the story would be better served by a prologue to give it some grounding. I would have enjoyed it more thoroughly from the beginning if I’d known where it was coming from historically - and leading to. Overall enjoyed it apart from a very sticky beginning 🤷🏼♀️
March 7, 2023
I had few expectations of this book but found it a very engaging and thought-provoking read.
The fictionalised story of a "spy cop" infiltrating a small group of free-spirited young people who want to change the world for the better.
It's interesting how the purpose and make-up of the group changes over time and how different people use the group for their own ends.
Hard to believe that things like this really did happen, in this country and very recently. And hard to feel sympathy for the infiltrator but definitely felt for the women and children involved.
The fictionalised story of a "spy cop" infiltrating a small group of free-spirited young people who want to change the world for the better.
It's interesting how the purpose and make-up of the group changes over time and how different people use the group for their own ends.
Hard to believe that things like this really did happen, in this country and very recently. And hard to feel sympathy for the infiltrator but definitely felt for the women and children involved.
November 16, 2023
this book was really interesting and i enjoyed it much more than i expected to.
based on a true situation and story, this makes the novel even more gripping and pacey.
the characters are all really well written and portrayed to the reader, our main character particularly so. character development is also pretty fantastic.
the story unfolds well, fast enough to keep you hooked but slow enough to keep you guessing.
i noticed a couple of discrepancies or oversights that i found odd in the text, i’m not going to mention them here so i don’t spoil anything.
based on a true situation and story, this makes the novel even more gripping and pacey.
the characters are all really well written and portrayed to the reader, our main character particularly so. character development is also pretty fantastic.
the story unfolds well, fast enough to keep you hooked but slow enough to keep you guessing.
i noticed a couple of discrepancies or oversights that i found odd in the text, i’m not going to mention them here so i don’t spoil anything.
December 20, 2021
I couldn't put this book down. Alice writes in a way that is very readable and her characters, not people I recognise in my own life, are vibrant and intriguing. The narrative pulled me in despite making me feel very uneasy a lot of the time. The fact that that these kinds of stories happened in real life is hard to comprehend. I congratulate Alice on making me think about the harm this must have done to those involved.
March 22, 2024
A really good, taut thriller that does an excellent job of building up a story of deception with genuine wow moments. However the last third moves so quickly, and things are wrapped up in a matter of pages. This really undoes all of the storytelling and character development that was built up. I could easily have read another 200 pages. That said this was a great read in parts and tackles a really important subject matter very well.
November 7, 2021
I read the reviews of this book, thought it wasn't my kind of book and was prepared to ditch it. I was kindly given a copy of this by Netgalley so I felt I should at the very least read it and give an honest opinion. I'm so glad I did as it was a superb read, very human, raw, sad and eye opening.
It's a must read, an interesting story without being overly dramatic.
#Skylark #NetGalley
It's a must read, an interesting story without being overly dramatic.
#Skylark #NetGalley
May 30, 2022
Very good … as someone who does want to change the world and clearly wasn’t paying much attention in 1996 (I remember the M41 street party on then news), this was the first I’ve heard about Britain’s spy cops.
I like the fact this reads as fiction but is heavily based around historical events and real stories, couldn’t put it down
I like the fact this reads as fiction but is heavily based around historical events and real stories, couldn’t put it down
November 8, 2021
Somehow not exactly what I expected. Finished it in only two days. Makes you think about people in general, the possibilities they've got and the responsibilities of choices related to that.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for a copy of the book.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for a copy of the book.
April 5, 2022
This is different to something I would normally read, but I really enjoyed it. I don’t remember any of it, which is probably why it made a great read for me!
Thank you NetGalley for my complimentary copy in return for my honest review.
Thank you NetGalley for my complimentary copy in return for my honest review.
October 25, 2022
Really loved the writing style. Very easy to read. Interesting story really felt like you were looking through the characters eyes. I felt the emotion of wonder and heartbreak. I love books that make you feel the characters lives. Would recommend
Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews