Book Review: A Long Way from Clare

A Long Way from Clare. Robert Smith, Meryton Press, January 18, 2023, Paperback and eBook, 272 pages.

Reviewed by Florence Osmund.

It is the late 1800s, and young Conor Dolan emigrates from Ireland to the U.S. with his older brother Keith. Although they had been very close to one another in their childhood, their lives became separate as adults. Conor earns a college degree and opens a law practice in Springfield, Illinois. Keith becomes a Chicago police officer. Years later, when Conor travels to Chicago to look for his brother, he learns he is dead.

A Long Way from Clare takes readers on Conor’s journey to solve the mystery of his brother’s death, an investigation that results in his meeting a cast of intriguing characters as the story unfolds—the suspiciously-friendly soldier he meets on the train, an unconventional priest, the dubious detective and police chief suspected of being involved in the Clan na Gael, some poor souls who desperately need his help, and the attractive Pinkerton agent with whom Conor partners on his brother’s case. 

A well-written and well-researched novel, A Long Way from Clare weaves a captivating historical mystery that provides a bewitching window into early 1900s Chicago demographics, customs, culture, politics, and corruption. Smith’s writing style includes a good balance of description, dialogue, action, and backstory. The book is well-structured with good chapter beginnings and endings and consistent pacing. While the narrative contains complex issues, several subplots, and many twists and turns, it is easy to follow and understand.

The characters in this book breathe life into the story and are sure to draw readers in—they are compelling, multi-dimensional, and unique among themselves. Their actions, dialogue, and backstory make them seem life-like, authentic, and believable. As the protagonist moves through the narrative and reacts to other characters and circumstances, it is interesting to see how he transforms in his thinking, beliefs, and values. 

Smith’s attention to detail is impressive in his descriptions of setting, events, and situations. Careful and comprehensive research provides a narrative rich in period insight. But A Long Way from Clare is more than just a historical mystery—it is a plexus of many other genres, including romance, thriller, and political fiction. It is a book with strong dramatic content, a satisfying storyline, and intriguing characters that are certain to engage a wide variety of readers.