The Devil's Due

I received an e-copy of The Devil's Due by L. D. Beyer for review.

This is the third book I have read by author L. D. Beyer and I have to say that they just keep getting better.

The Devil's Due is set in Ireland shortly after World War I. It follows Frank Kelleher, IRA soldier, as he copes with being falsely accused of betraying his comrades. We follow his attempts to clear his name and reputation, and reclaiming his life in his beloved Ireland.

We also get a history of the fight for independence in Ireland and the civil unrest of the time. Kelleher is the epitome of anti-hero (the crux of the story so, you'll have to read that part for yourself). He is an honorable man caught in the wheels of history.

I could hear the Irish lilt in his voice as he tells his story. It made the story that much more enjoyable. I can not speak to the historical accuracy of the story, but that is not really the point of the book to me. The story is Kelleher and his family and friends. It is a compelling, touching story. Honor, loyalty, patriotism, are key to Kelleher's life. His stubborn insistence in holding true to his values in the face of events which would prompt many to abandon them is inspiring. Author Beyer excels at painting a verbal picture that places the reader right in the heart of the story. His description of the beauty of Ireland is nothing short of breathtaking.

There is, of course, a lot of violent action. But there is also a lot of introspection and soul searching, making The Devil's Due more than just an action packed story of violence, retribution and redemption. It is a well rounded, balanced story of a man's life.

Readers whose tastes in action extend beyond kill everybody and let God sort them out, who like more depth to their reading will find this book fills that interest in a most satisfying read. I thoroughly enjoyed The Devil's Due, and as I said earlier, L. D. Beyer's work gets better with each book I read. Enjoy!

Mike