The Twelve by Stuart Neville (2009)
I first heard about this novel when playwright David Hare praised it in one of those ubiquitous end of year lists. He had picked it up by chance at an airport in the USA where it was published as The Ghosts of Belfast.
The new title isn’t exactly eye-catching, doubtless the publishers were worried that the backdrop of the ‘troubles’ in Northern Ireland might put off potential readers in the UK.
This is borne out by the fact that nothing on the front or back cover tells you that it is set in Belfast even though this location is fundamental to the plot.
The action takes place while peace negotiations are at a delicate stage and this is a vital ingredient in creating the tension and in making it more than just another straightforward revenge thriller. Continue reading
