Only With Blood: a novel of Ireland by Therese Down

When dying Jack Flynn decides he needs a bride so that he can father a son, his young wife Caitlin proves far more than he intended to buy
Jack Flynn, strong and aggressive but slowly dying of tuberculosis on his farm in Tipperary in the Republic of Ireland, decides to acquire purchase a young wife who can bear him sons to inherit his family s land. His choice, Caitlin Spillane, is less than half his age, attractive and intelligent, and resents bitterly the obedience that is forced upon her.
When a young firebrand, a supporter of the IRA, arrives in the village, he and Caitlin are drawn together in their detestation of Flynn. Flynn, traumatized by his own insurgent IRA experiences twenty years earlier, is secretly convinced that Eamonn de Valera s more diplomatic, peaceful approach to Ireland s problems is the only sane one.
Could Caitlin be won for the cause, and leave her unloved husband?
A novel set against the struggle for the heart of Ireland in the Second World War, when the IRA notoriously sought assistance from the Nazis, Only with Blood explores flawed characters placed in extraordinary situations.


About The Author

Therese Down is currently working as the Head of English at a High School in England and has been teaching English Literature and Language for over twenty years in a range of schools and colleges. She holds a MA in Employment Law and is experienced in personnel management.


My Review 

This book gives us a deep look into life in Ireland during the Second World War, where life is hard, rationing like the rest of the world, but with also in fighting between the IRA and Britton.
There is also a look inside the home of one of the farmers and his family, and the ghastly road to money he took when he sells his youngest daughter to man that is his age. Now this girl Caitlin is interested in learning and wants to go to the University, which in this peasant community, is scoffed at. Watch what happens when she ends up married an older, sick man.
We also have a young teacher who is drawn into the life of the IRA, but is torn with his love of family. I never realized some of the things that went on during this time. I’ve heard of some of the incidents and the politicians, but never new any of the facts.
A great read for those who are interested in some of the inner life happenings in Ireland and what has made theme the country they are today.
I received this book through Kregel Book Bloggers and was not required to give a positive review.