Four Shots in the Night
A True Story of Stakeknife, Murder and Justice in Northern Ireland
Format:Hardback
Publisher:Quercus Publishing
Published:28th Mar '24
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A gripping investigation into a spy's murder that unveils the complexities of the IRA and British intelligence, Four Shots in the Night is a compelling true crime narrative.
In Four Shots in the Night, the chilling tale begins with the discovery of an undercover British agent's body on May 26, 1986. Found bound and blindfolded, this shocking murder raises questions that linger for decades. As the investigation unfolds, it reveals a web of deceit involving undercover operatives and the notorious IRA. The narrative delves into the complexities of espionage and the moral ambiguities faced by those involved, leading to the revelation that the murder may have been orchestrated by another agent, known as 'Stakeknife'.
Henry Hemming masterfully intertwines investigative journalism with true crime storytelling, providing a gripping account of one detective's relentless pursuit of justice. The author explores the historical context of the Troubles in Northern Ireland, shedding light on the bravery of individuals who played pivotal roles in the conflict's resolution. Through vivid portrayals, Four Shots in the Night captures the tension and danger that characterized this tumultuous period in British history.
As the detective navigates through layers of intrigue, the narrative builds to a climax that not only seeks to unveil the truth behind the murder but also reflects on the broader implications of loyalty, betrayal, and the quest for justice. With a compelling blend of suspense and historical accuracy, this book is a profound exploration of a dark chapter in recent history, making it a must-read for those interested in true crime and political intrigue.
One of the most compelling books I've read in a very long time. An absolutely extraordinary tale of secret intelligence, infiltration and murder, FOUR SHOTS is a brilliantly pieced-together psychological drama that is all the more gripping - and unsettling - for being real rather than fiction. The story is expertly woven together, exploring the characters and motivations of the four main characters into a truly page-turning, compulsive and also profoundly moving narrative. Superb. * James Holland *
Gripping, urgent, superbly reported and brilliantly written. Henry Hemming unfolds a true story of violence, politics and spycraft that sits right at the edge of journalism and history. * Dan Jones *
Both a sinewy spy thriller and a wider history of the Troubles in Northern Ireland, Four Shots in the Night is edge-of-seat stuff: beautifully crafted, shrewdly observed, frighteningly immersive and utterly compelling * Jessie Childs *
A masterly achievement and a riveting read * Peter Taylor, author of 'Operation Chiffon' *
Meticulously researched and brought to life with the finesse of a first-class storyteller, Four Shots in the Night is an absolutely gripping tale of murder, The Troubles, and the good and bad that lurks inside us all. I was in its thrall from the first page to the last. * Charlotte Philby, author of 'A Double Life' *
A superb portrait of the Troubles . . . Gripping and revelatory * Saul David *
If another book has been written that has zoomed in so closely on the relationship between handler and agent, I have yet to find it. A not-so-chance meeting on an isolated Road to Perdition ends in ultimate destruction for one of the parties. What began in silence morphs into staccato, as Four Shots in the Night enter the brain of a once lonesome dog walker. Henry Hemming with sublime clarity peels away an opaque film allowing the reader to stare through a humane window into the horrendous world of espionage. * Anthony McIntyre, author of 'Good Friday' *
eye-catching * Irish Examiner *
a compelling story * The Times *
[a] gripping and consistently surprising true-life thriller * Observer *
Exciting, at times astonishing * New York Times *
The best book about the Troubles since Patrick Radden Keefe's Say Nothing . . . outstanding reporting and an unflinching focus on the facts at hand * Wall Street Journal *
If another book has been written that has zoomed in so closely on the relationship between handler and agent, I have yet to find it. A not-so-chance meeting on an isolated Road to Perdition ends in ultimate destruction for one of the parties. What began in silence morphs into staccato, as Four Shots in the Night enter the brain of a once lonesome dog walker. Henry Hemming with sublime clarity peels away an opaque film allowing the reader to stare through a humane window into the horrendous world of espionage. * Anthony McIntyre, author of 'Good Friday' *
Remarkable insight into the Troubles' labyrinthine complexities. * Alex Burghart *
ISBN: 9781529426755
Dimensions: 240mm x 162mm x 38mm
Weight: 586g
352 pages