The Tragic Isle by N.P. Kennedy

– a story that lay undiscovered for decades is finally revealed –

The Tragic Isle by N.P. Kennedy is a story of love and conflict, loyalty and compromise set during the rebel resistance at the height of Ireland’s War of Independence (1919-1922), the post-treaty civil war and the final declaration of peace.

Bernard Thompson, a British Army veteran of World War I, operating as an auxiliary to the Royal Irish Constabulary (RIC), is appalled by the unruly behaviour of his fellow recruits. Later left for dead after his patrol is ambushed, he is rescued by the same rebel forces that he is sent to suppress. As he recuperates, he acquires such sympathy and understanding for the Irish cause that he goes over to the other side.

It is a remarkable story that reads like a fireside tale, told with style, flair, vividness, candour, colour and panache. Adding to the authenticity of the narrative is the fact that it is conveyed by one who himself was a product of the period, writing at a time when the events being recalled were within living memory. The really remarkable aspect however, is how the story has come to light, having laid hidden for decades.

Born in Ireland, in 1908, into a family of eight children, Nicholas P. Kennedy grew up in what could be said to have been the crucible of Ireland's struggle for independence. His parents ran a grocery shop on Dublin’s Townsend Street, which was eventually forced to close due to circumstances arising out of the tumult and turmoil of the period. 

Nicholas P. Kennedy died in 1978 at the age of 69. Over the course of his life, he immersed himself in the Irish language, music and drama. He is fondly remembered as a highly intelligent and interesting man, serious but with a great sense of humour. The manuscript for this book was found among possessions left behind after his death.

He is survived by his son, Mahon and daughter, Ailis as well as grandchildren. This book is a valuable legacy of his family and descendants, who have chosen to share it and make it available to the general public for the first time.

The Tragic Isle by N.P. Kennedy is published under the imprint of The Manuscript Publisher and is available to buy online, in print and e-book editions.