Based on extraordinary access to the detectives, prosecutors, and defense lawyers involved in one of the most notorious crimes in recent history, Say Nothing is a riveting tale of murder, misdirection, and deceit. In December 2001 two little girls were playing in a park near their homes in Belfast when they were abducted and brutally murdered. The police soon focused their investigation on Robert Adams-a troubled young janitor with a criminal record-who quickly confessed to the killings. But as details emerged about how Adams had been interrogated by police-and then changed his story repeatedly under pressure-questions arose about whether he was truly responsible for the deaths. Meanwhile some of Northern Ireland’s most prominent politicians became entangled in an increasingly complex case that threatened to expose dangerous secrets hidden deep within its past.
For who is this book for ?
The book is for anyone who is interested in true crime, murder mysteries, and Northern Ireland’s history.
Pros :
- The book provides a detailed, insiders perspective on the murder investigation and trial.
- Keefer’s writing is stunningly paced and Keep makes it easy to get lost in the many plot twists involved.
- The story offers readers a rare glimpse into how Belfast’s complex politics have long contributed to violence in Northern Ireland
Cons :
- It may be dry for some readers.
- The author’s writing style might not be everyone’s cup of tea.
- Some parts of the book could potentially be slow or boring to others
Learn more about the author
Patrick Radden Keefe is a staff writer at The New Yorker and the author of Chasing Ambition. He has written for Slate, The Atlantic, Foreign Affairs, Harper’s Magazine, and other publications.
Reader Reviews
“This is a truly amazing book. The level of detail, the amount of work that obviously went into it – it all comes through on every page. Keefe has done an incredible job re-creating not just a gripping tale of true crime and mystery but also bringing to life the fraught political landscape of Northern Ireland.”
“This is an amazing book. The author’s research and writing are both superb, providing a clear and compelling account of a horrific crime as well as the larger political context in which it took place. Anyone interested in modern Irish history, true crime stories, or just really good journalism will find much to appreciate in Say Nothing.”
“An amazing story, brilliantly researched and beautifully written.”
“This book is fantastic! It tells the story of an incredibly complex case in a way that is easy to follow, but still packed full of detail. I was hooked from beginning to end.”