Killing at its Very Extreme: Dublin: October 1917- November 1920

Killing at Its Very Extreme is a book that takes the reader to the heart of Dublin during the War of Independence, detailing key aspects such as the intelligence war, raids, assassinations, hunger-strikes, general strikes, prisons escapes, and executions by the IRA 'Squad. The author's unprecedented access lays bare many myths about key players from both sides, and the intensity builds as the reader is embedded into Commandant Dick McKee's Dublin Brigade. The book portrays desperate plights and horrific reprisals, including the sacking of Balbriggan, the killing of Seán Treacy, the death of Terence MacSwiney, and the capture and execution of teenager Kevin Barry. The harrowing circumstances suffered by those whose sacrifices laid the bedrock for modern Ireland are recounted in unflinching detail, using primary sources from those who lived through the events.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 374 pages
Publication date: 04 September 2020
Publisher: The Mercier Press Ltd

Killing at its Very Extreme takes the reader on a captivating journey through the heart of Dublin from October 1917 to November 1920, effectively the first phase of Dublin's War of Independence. The book delves into pivotal aspects at the outset, followed by the escalation of the intelligence war, the increase in raids and assassinations. Through vivid descriptions, it paints a picture of mass hunger strikes, general strikes, prison escapes, and ruthless executions carried out by the full-time IRA's 'Squad amidst curfews and the functioning of an audacious alternative government. The intensity grows as the reader becomes deeply immersed in Commandant Dick McKee's Dublin Brigade, witnessing relentless actions and ambushes.

The authors' unparalleled access sheds light on many myths surrounding key players from both sides. The pace quickens with the deployment of the notorious Black and Tans and Auxiliaries, as well as a series of cunning political and propaganda ploys. Desperate situations and horrific reprisals are portrayed, including the sacking of Balbriggan, the killing of Seán Treacy, the death of Terence MacSwiney, and the capture and execution of teenager Kevin Barry. As in the author's previous works, the pulsating tension, elation, fear, desperation, hunger, mercy, and enmity leap from the pages. The harrowing circumstances suffered by those whose sacrifices laid the foundation for modern Ireland, and whose own words form the book's primary sources, are recounted in unflinching detail.

This captivating historical narrative offers a unique perspective on a critical period in Irish history, providing a deeper understanding of the events that shaped the country's future. Through the voices of those who lived through the turmoil, Killing at its Very Extreme sheds light on the human cost of conflict and the sacrifices made by those who fought for independence. It is a testament to the resilience and determination of the Irish people in the face of adversity.

Weight: 584g
Dimension: 155 x 232 x 35 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781781177549