The Princes of Ireland is the first book in The Dublin Saga series written by Edward Rutherfurd. This historical novel takes readers on a captivating journey through the rich and tumultuous history of Ireland, spanning from prehistoric times to the early 20th century. With meticulous research and a compelling narrative, Rutherfurd weaves together the lives of various fictional and historical characters to provide a comprehensive and immersive account of Ireland’s past.

The story begins in prehistoric Ireland, exploring the lives of the ancient Celts and their interactions with the land and each other. The narrative then moves forward to the arrival of Christianity in Ireland, focusing on the influential figure of St. Patrick and the spread of Christianity throughout the island. Rutherfurd delves into the conflicts between paganism and Christianity, as well as the political struggles that shaped early Irish society.

As the centuries pass, the reader is introduced to a diverse cast of characters, including noble families, warriors, monks, merchants, and rebels. The Norman invasion of Ireland in the 12th century becomes a pivotal moment in Irish history, leading to centuries of English rule and ongoing tensions between the native Irish and their English conquerors.

Rutherfurd explores significant events such as the Tudor conquests, the Plantation of Ulster, and the Great Famine, providing a vivid portrayal of how these events impacted the lives of ordinary people. The author also delves into themes such as religion, culture, language, and nationalism, offering insights into the complex identity of Ireland.

Throughout the novel, Rutherfurd skillfully intertwines fictional characters with real historical figures, allowing readers to experience both personal stories and grand historical events. The narrative spans generations, showcasing how individual choices and actions can have far-reaching consequences for future generations.

• Princes of Ireland

• The Dublin Saga
• By: Edward Rutherfurd
• Narrated by: Richard Matthews

The story begins in tribal, pre-Christian Ireland during the reigns of the fierce and mighty supreme kings of Tara, with the story of two lovers, the bewitching Conall prince and the ravishing Deirdre, whose journey deftly echoes the ancient Celtic legend of Cuchulainn. From that moving opening, Rutherfurd takes listeners on a powerful imaginative journey through the centuries. Through the intertwined stories of memorable characters (druids and chieftains, priests and smugglers, noblewomen and peasants, merchants and mercenaries, rebels and cowards), we see Ireland through the lens of its greatest city.

While vividly and touchingly conveying the passions and struggles that have shaped Dublin’s character, Rutherfurd portrays key events in Irish history: The tribal culture of pagan Ireland; St. Patrick’s mission; the arrival of the Vikings and the founding of Dublin; the glory of nearby great Glendalough monastery and the creation of such treasures as the Book of Kells; the extraordinary career of Brian Boru; and the trick of Henry II, which gave England its first foothold in medieval Ireland. The stage was then set for the great conflict between the English kings and the Irish princes, and the disastrous Irish invasion of England, which infuriated Henry VIII and this book, the first in the two-part Dublin Saga, comes to an end, as the path of Irish history takes a dramatic and irreversible turn.

Rich, colorful and impeccably researched, The Princes of Ireland is epic entertainment choreographed by a master.

I must say this is one of the best books I have heard. The story is easy to follow and all the characters come to life. The reading is well done, easy to understand and still retains the taste of the Irish.

I wanted a book that gave me an overview of Irish history and this book was perfect! The best part is that the writer didn’t drag you through graphic episodes of sex or violence. You already know that these things happened in Irish history, but the reader need not smear it.

The story is engaging and the reader makes it even better. I learned a lot about Ireland’s early history and its relationship with England and Scandinavia. I am waiting for the next installment.

We think of the “Dark Ages” as darkness too, and this book provides insight into the social structures of the times and how complex they were. I am particularly intrigued by the role women play and the degree of power and freedom they possess.

I think what makes it so relatable are the characters, who are blessed and cursed with very recognizable personality traits. Very absorbent.

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