By
This review is from: The Rule of War (Paperback)
The Rule of War offers what is something of a rarity for modern
non-genre Irish fiction - a genuine modern novel. Set in the not so
distant future, the story portrays the lives of budding writers and
artists cocooned in a bubble of cultural, artistic, and personal trauma
against the backdrop of a nation which is equally troubled.It's scathing representation of the cliquish Dublin art scene is the focal point for its societal observations and will ring particularly true not only to Irish readers but to a wider readership, as the story manifests the harmfulness of cultural stagnation and regression under the guise of progress - something which is symptomatic of Irish society and which I feel others would find relatable (practically any country currently entrenched in economic turmoil).
The general tone of the novel is darkly humorous. If you're looking for likable characters it's very unlikely you'll find them here, however each is given enough humanity and frailty so as to engage the readers sympathy to a degree. The later parts of the novel take on a suspenseful quality as it rushes towards a frantic climax and has a closing set piece which is likely to take readers by surprise.
In all, if you are looking for a modern representation of Ireland this is a must read novel. Not a single character emigrates to New York and we are not subjected to rural misery.
