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The Devil's Due
A country at war. A man on the run. A woman left behind. Can an innocent man ever go home?
Guilty of a crime he didn’t commit, IRA soldier Frank Kelleher flees through the streets of war-torn Ireland with both the British and the Irish Republican Army trying to put a bullet in his head. He makes his way to America under an assumed name and with a forged passport, as the war in Ireland rages on. Settling in a new land, he finds he can’t let go of his past. Haunted by the fiancée he was forced to leave behind, by the deaths of three friends at his own hand, and by the country he was forced to abandon, Frank struggles to make his way in 1920s New York.
As much as he can’t let go of Ireland, he finds that Ireland can’t let go of him—and his past has a way of finding him, thousands of miles and an ocean away. After a chance encounter leaves him bruised and shaken, he realizes he’s no longer safe, not even in America. He dreams of going home but knows that it could get him killed. Then an anonymous letter brings news about his fiancée Kathleen and he realizes that he no longer has a choice. A cease-fire is declared and Frank sails home with dreams of finding Kathleen, putting his past behind him, and starting a new life.
When he arrives, he finds that the Ireland he dreamed of was just that—a dream. With British soldiers withdrawing, long-standing feuds resurface, and his fellow countrymen begin choosing sides. As the country teeters on the brink of another war, Frank learns that his sins will not be easily forgiven, and that he and Kathleen will never be safe unless he can clear his name.
If the looming war doesn’t kill him, trying to right the wrongs of his past just might.
Best Selling Author L.D. Beyer delivers a suspenseful drama that will “…push him to the top of the heap of contemporary thriller/historic fiction writers.”
Guilty of a crime he didn’t commit, IRA soldier Frank Kelleher flees through the streets of war-torn Ireland with both the British and the Irish Republican Army trying to put a bullet in his head. He makes his way to America under an assumed name and with a forged passport, as the war in Ireland rages on. Settling in a new land, he finds he can’t let go of his past. Haunted by the fiancée he was forced to leave behind, by the deaths of three friends at his own hand, and by the country he was forced to abandon, Frank struggles to make his way in 1920s New York.
As much as he can’t let go of Ireland, he finds that Ireland can’t let go of him—and his past has a way of finding him, thousands of miles and an ocean away. After a chance encounter leaves him bruised and shaken, he realizes he’s no longer safe, not even in America. He dreams of going home but knows that it could get him killed. Then an anonymous letter brings news about his fiancée Kathleen and he realizes that he no longer has a choice. A cease-fire is declared and Frank sails home with dreams of finding Kathleen, putting his past behind him, and starting a new life.
When he arrives, he finds that the Ireland he dreamed of was just that—a dream. With British soldiers withdrawing, long-standing feuds resurface, and his fellow countrymen begin choosing sides. As the country teeters on the brink of another war, Frank learns that his sins will not be easily forgiven, and that he and Kathleen will never be safe unless he can clear his name.
If the looming war doesn’t kill him, trying to right the wrongs of his past just might.
Best Selling Author L.D. Beyer delivers a suspenseful drama that will “…push him to the top of the heap of contemporary thriller/historic fiction writers.”
306 pages, Paperback
Published June 15, 2016
91 people are currently reading
848 people want to read
About the author
L.D. Beyer
3 books149 followersL.D. Beyer is a reformed corporate drone who, after twenty-five years of missed family events, one day rose up and reclaimed his soul. Before he escaped, his career primarily involved relocating his family every few years—so much so that his children began to secretly suspect that he was really in the Witness Protection Program. He has yet to set the record straight.
L.D. Beyer is the author of three novels, two of which are part of the Matthew Richter Thriller Series. The first in the series, In Sheep’s Clothing, won a silver medal for best mystery/thriller eBook in the 2017 IPPY Book Awards. His third novel, The Devil’s Due, a standalone novel, is an historical thriller set in Ireland during the 1920’s.
Beyer lives in Michigan with his wife and three children. In addition to writing and reading, he enjoys cooking, hiking, biking, working out, and the occasional glass of wine.
To get an email whenever the author releases a new title and be the first to hear about new promotions, sign up for my newsletter.
Learn more at www.LDBeyer.com.
L.D. Beyer is the author of three novels, two of which are part of the Matthew Richter Thriller Series. The first in the series, In Sheep’s Clothing, won a silver medal for best mystery/thriller eBook in the 2017 IPPY Book Awards. His third novel, The Devil’s Due, a standalone novel, is an historical thriller set in Ireland during the 1920’s.
Beyer lives in Michigan with his wife and three children. In addition to writing and reading, he enjoys cooking, hiking, biking, working out, and the occasional glass of wine.
To get an email whenever the author releases a new title and be the first to hear about new promotions, sign up for my newsletter.
Learn more at www.LDBeyer.com.
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Displaying 1 - 10 of 10 reviews
September 27, 2024
After stumbling upon the work of L.D. Beyer, I was quite curious to read this standalone novel that is more historical than political thriller! The book has strong elements of the Irish struggle for statehood and the British control of the country in the early 1920s. Frank Kelleher comes to life as the story progresses, leaving the reader educated about the situation and wondering how Frank will handle all that is tossed his way. L. D. Beyer does well with this novel and left me wanting to visit Ireland again!
Frank Kelleher is a gritty young man who has chosen his side in the battle for Ireland’s freedom. As an IRA soldier, he is on edge, but when he is accused of a crime he did not commit, Frank ends up the target of both the British and his own men. Before he is shot, Frank makes the risky decision to flee the country and sail for America.
While he feels the guilt of the death of three friends due to his own actions and the fiancée he cannot stop thinking about, Frank struggles under an assumed name in New York. The war at home rages on and Frank cannot help but wonder if he ought to return and face what is coming for him. Hw wonders if Kathleen, the woman he loves, will take him back with the cloud of doubt over his head.
It is a significant piece of news in an anonymous that shakes Frank loose and has him returning to Limerick to face the truth. When a cease-fire is called, Frank takes the opportunity to return to the Emerald Isle, in hopes of making things right for all involved. Still, he cannot shake the idea that he might be making a big mistake.
That hope is dashed as old skirmishes resurface and Frank must dodge those who still want him dead. He tries to make things right, but discovers that no one will be safe around him until he can clear his name, especially Kathleen. This will take more than simply pleading for mercy, as Frank has crossed some very bad people. Time will tell and there is little of it to waste. Beyer delivers a strong story with all the needed elements to shock the reader.
While I had not heard of L.D. Beyer until recently, I am pleased to have devoured all three novels attributed to him. Beyer offers up a piece that promises historical exploration of an explosive event and the personal sentiments of an impacted protagonist. The narrative opens depicting that Irish struggle and keeps the reader in the driver’s seat as they explore the plight locals had, as well as the brutality exacted on the Irish people. Building in momentum, the story offers much to keep the reader wondering and leaves little to the imagination as the pace quickens. Short chapters clip along and guide things as the story gets more intense. Great characters flavour the story and provide a keen outlook as to how things were done, as well as the pains both sides had in the statehood argument. The well-developed plot keeps the reader guessing, even as history is a signpost throughout events. While I have not seen anything published by L. D. Beyer of late, I can only hope he will dazzle fans again with more strong writing!
Kudos, Mr. Beyer, for the stellar standalone novel.
Love/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at:
http://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/
Frank Kelleher is a gritty young man who has chosen his side in the battle for Ireland’s freedom. As an IRA soldier, he is on edge, but when he is accused of a crime he did not commit, Frank ends up the target of both the British and his own men. Before he is shot, Frank makes the risky decision to flee the country and sail for America.
While he feels the guilt of the death of three friends due to his own actions and the fiancée he cannot stop thinking about, Frank struggles under an assumed name in New York. The war at home rages on and Frank cannot help but wonder if he ought to return and face what is coming for him. Hw wonders if Kathleen, the woman he loves, will take him back with the cloud of doubt over his head.
It is a significant piece of news in an anonymous that shakes Frank loose and has him returning to Limerick to face the truth. When a cease-fire is called, Frank takes the opportunity to return to the Emerald Isle, in hopes of making things right for all involved. Still, he cannot shake the idea that he might be making a big mistake.
That hope is dashed as old skirmishes resurface and Frank must dodge those who still want him dead. He tries to make things right, but discovers that no one will be safe around him until he can clear his name, especially Kathleen. This will take more than simply pleading for mercy, as Frank has crossed some very bad people. Time will tell and there is little of it to waste. Beyer delivers a strong story with all the needed elements to shock the reader.
While I had not heard of L.D. Beyer until recently, I am pleased to have devoured all three novels attributed to him. Beyer offers up a piece that promises historical exploration of an explosive event and the personal sentiments of an impacted protagonist. The narrative opens depicting that Irish struggle and keeps the reader in the driver’s seat as they explore the plight locals had, as well as the brutality exacted on the Irish people. Building in momentum, the story offers much to keep the reader wondering and leaves little to the imagination as the pace quickens. Short chapters clip along and guide things as the story gets more intense. Great characters flavour the story and provide a keen outlook as to how things were done, as well as the pains both sides had in the statehood argument. The well-developed plot keeps the reader guessing, even as history is a signpost throughout events. While I have not seen anything published by L. D. Beyer of late, I can only hope he will dazzle fans again with more strong writing!
Kudos, Mr. Beyer, for the stellar standalone novel.
Love/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at:
http://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/
June 5, 2017
I received an e-copy of The Devil's Due by L. D. Beyer for review.
This is the third book I have read by author L. D. Beyer and I have to say that they just keep getting better.
The Devil's Due is set in Ireland shortly after World War I. It follows Frank Kelleher, IRA soldier, as he copes with being falsely accused of betraying his comrades. We follow his attempts to clear his name and reputation, and reclaiming his life in his beloved Ireland.
We also get a history of the fight for independence in Ireland and the civil unrest of the time. Kelleher is the epitome of anti-hero (the crux of the story so, you'll have to read that part for yourself). He is an honorable man caught in the wheels of history.
I could hear the Irish lilt in his voice as he tells his story. It made the story that much more enjoyable. I can not speak to the historical accuracy of the story, but that is not really the point of the book to me. The story is Kelleher and his family and friends. It is a compelling, touching story. Honor, loyalty, patriotism, are key to Kelleher's life. His stubborn insistence in holding true to his values in the face of events which would prompt many to abandon them is inspiring. Author Beyer excels at painting a verbal picture that places the reader right in the heart of the story. His description of the beauty of Ireland is nothing short of breathtaking.
There is, of course, a lot of violent action. But there is also a lot of introspection and soul searching, making The Devil's Due more than just an action packed story of violence, retribution and redemption. It is a well rounded, balanced story of a man's life.
Readers whose tastes in action extend beyond kill everybody and let God sort them out, who like more depth to their reading will find this book fills that interest in a most satisfying read. I thoroughly enjoyed The Devil's Due, and as I said earlier, L. D. Beyer's work gets better with each book I read. Enjoy!
Mike
This is the third book I have read by author L. D. Beyer and I have to say that they just keep getting better.
The Devil's Due is set in Ireland shortly after World War I. It follows Frank Kelleher, IRA soldier, as he copes with being falsely accused of betraying his comrades. We follow his attempts to clear his name and reputation, and reclaiming his life in his beloved Ireland.
We also get a history of the fight for independence in Ireland and the civil unrest of the time. Kelleher is the epitome of anti-hero (the crux of the story so, you'll have to read that part for yourself). He is an honorable man caught in the wheels of history.
I could hear the Irish lilt in his voice as he tells his story. It made the story that much more enjoyable. I can not speak to the historical accuracy of the story, but that is not really the point of the book to me. The story is Kelleher and his family and friends. It is a compelling, touching story. Honor, loyalty, patriotism, are key to Kelleher's life. His stubborn insistence in holding true to his values in the face of events which would prompt many to abandon them is inspiring. Author Beyer excels at painting a verbal picture that places the reader right in the heart of the story. His description of the beauty of Ireland is nothing short of breathtaking.
There is, of course, a lot of violent action. But there is also a lot of introspection and soul searching, making The Devil's Due more than just an action packed story of violence, retribution and redemption. It is a well rounded, balanced story of a man's life.
Readers whose tastes in action extend beyond kill everybody and let God sort them out, who like more depth to their reading will find this book fills that interest in a most satisfying read. I thoroughly enjoyed The Devil's Due, and as I said earlier, L. D. Beyer's work gets better with each book I read. Enjoy!
Mike
January 27, 2019
The Devil’s Due is my kind of historical novel. The setting is Ireland just after WWII. The historical segment of the story surrounds Ireland’s fight for independence. The character’s and their story was compelling. Each character was consistent and well developed. It was one of my more favorite reads this winter and, in my opinion would make a great movie: five stars. Jeff Bailey, author of The Defect.
August 3, 2018
What a great riveting and imagery read! The author brought the culture of Ireland to life in the wording. The storyline was awesome and the characters brought you in with their sadness and determination. This book is worth the time to read it!
June 16, 2017
It is a very good read. I thought it was really good.
February 24, 2018
A great story about Ireland, the British, history, friendship, politics, violence and a fight nobody can win !
August 29, 2016
Title – The Devil's Due
Author – L.D. Beyer
Genre – Mystery, Suspense, Thriller
273 Amazon Pages
Rating 5 stars out of 5 Posted 8/28/16
The Devil's Due is without doubt the best book I've read this year. That's high praise because I've had the privilege or reviewing many highly rated books. It is a historical novel set in Ireland in 1921 and depicts the war with England. Frank Kelleher is the main character. In the opening scenes young Frank is about to be murdered as a spy and traitor to the Irish Republican Army. He's been beaten to a pulp by his company commander, Billy Ryan, and is on the verge of being executed when the British attack the barn where Frank is being held. The diversion is enough for a friend to help him escape.
A year later, Frank learns of the plight of his girlfriend, Kathleen, and returns to make things right with her and clear his name. How he goes about that and the perils it causes is the main plot of the book. He and a handful of loyal friends soon uncover a plot that lands Frank in the hands of his nemesis again. And again his death sentence is about to be carried out.
The action is plentiful, the conflict is intense and the characters are colorful. As colorful as a country can be where a breakfast can consist of a plate of boiled potatoes and a cup of tea.
The editing is superb and character development is through. The writing style is crisp and descriptive but not overdone.
I thoroughly enjoyed this story and recommend it strongly.
This review was provided in exchange for a free book.
Vigilant Reader Book Reviews.
Author – L.D. Beyer
Genre – Mystery, Suspense, Thriller
273 Amazon Pages
Rating 5 stars out of 5 Posted 8/28/16
The Devil's Due is without doubt the best book I've read this year. That's high praise because I've had the privilege or reviewing many highly rated books. It is a historical novel set in Ireland in 1921 and depicts the war with England. Frank Kelleher is the main character. In the opening scenes young Frank is about to be murdered as a spy and traitor to the Irish Republican Army. He's been beaten to a pulp by his company commander, Billy Ryan, and is on the verge of being executed when the British attack the barn where Frank is being held. The diversion is enough for a friend to help him escape.
A year later, Frank learns of the plight of his girlfriend, Kathleen, and returns to make things right with her and clear his name. How he goes about that and the perils it causes is the main plot of the book. He and a handful of loyal friends soon uncover a plot that lands Frank in the hands of his nemesis again. And again his death sentence is about to be carried out.
The action is plentiful, the conflict is intense and the characters are colorful. As colorful as a country can be where a breakfast can consist of a plate of boiled potatoes and a cup of tea.
The editing is superb and character development is through. The writing style is crisp and descriptive but not overdone.
I thoroughly enjoyed this story and recommend it strongly.
This review was provided in exchange for a free book.
Vigilant Reader Book Reviews.
July 24, 2016
I love historical fiction, but am new to Irish history. L.D. Beyer did an fantastic job capturing the feel and emotions of passionate volunteers in the Irish Republican Army and the family struggles in the wake of the British Treaty that split the country in the early 20th Century. He set the stage wonderfully for an emotional understanding of the upcoming civil war. Great read.....definitely worth the time and money.
July 4, 2017
Don't remember why I started the book but I could not put it down. Well done except for some apparent small blunders such as confusing a Luger pistol with a revolver. Also, the characters surely would die of pneumonia in reality given all the rain falling upon them. Still it was a great read.
Dan Kurt
Dan Kurt
April 7, 2017
Steady reading
You know the end from near the beginning but the good writing keeps you reading. Just too slow moving and singularly focused on the pov.
You know the end from near the beginning but the good writing keeps you reading. Just too slow moving and singularly focused on the pov.
Displaying 1 - 10 of 10 reviews