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Under the Bridge
2004 - The discovery of a skeleton in the Liverpool docklands unearths long buried secrets. Reporter, Anne McCarthy, is keen to prove herself and dives into the case with abandon where she finds Michael, an old Irish caretaker who knows far more than he’s letting on and may have a connection to the body.
Meanwhile, Vinny Doyle, is starting a postgrad degree, researching Liverpool’s immigrant history and a burgeoning Scouse identity. But Vinny has been neglecting his own family history and stranger Michael might know about his father's disappearance in the 70s.
1955 - Escaping violence in Ireland and fresh off the boat, Michael falls in with Wicklow boys Jack Power and Paddy Doyle, who smuggle contraband through the docks putting them at odds with unions while they rally the dock workers against the rackets and the strikebreakers. A story of corruption, secret police, and sectarianism slowly unravels. But will the truth out?
As the conflict heightens, Michael questions the life sprawling out ahead of him. In the present, Anne races to solve the mystery, but is she prepared for what she’ll find?
Meanwhile, Vinny Doyle, is starting a postgrad degree, researching Liverpool’s immigrant history and a burgeoning Scouse identity. But Vinny has been neglecting his own family history and stranger Michael might know about his father's disappearance in the 70s.
1955 - Escaping violence in Ireland and fresh off the boat, Michael falls in with Wicklow boys Jack Power and Paddy Doyle, who smuggle contraband through the docks putting them at odds with unions while they rally the dock workers against the rackets and the strikebreakers. A story of corruption, secret police, and sectarianism slowly unravels. But will the truth out?
As the conflict heightens, Michael questions the life sprawling out ahead of him. In the present, Anne races to solve the mystery, but is she prepared for what she’ll find?
- GenresMysteryHistorical
360 pages, Paperback
First published February 18, 2021
8 people are currently reading
26 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews
March 12, 2022
That was a weird book, I started this book thinking that it was a mystery crime novel, maybe a start to a nice series, what I ended up with is a walk through the history of liverpool, the lives of irish immigrant and a nice little lesson on the philosophy of "who we are".
If you are going through a rut of wondering "Who am i" then i recommend this book since it's a mix of fiction and non fiction.
If you are going through a rut of wondering "Who am i" then i recommend this book since it's a mix of fiction and non fiction.
February 17, 2021
I was so intrigued by the blurb for this, and I honestly don't read that many novels set in my hometown, so I thought I'd give it a go.
Under the bridge is a mix of historical drama and mystery which really teaches you something about the history of Liverpool!
The story centres around Garston, a suburb in the south of Liverpool, and a place I don't believe I've visited, but it has a long and interesting history. Now I've lived in and around Liverpool my entire life and I used to think I knew a thing or two about the place, but after reading this novel I realise I'm woefully uninformed! Seriously, I think I learnt more about my own area reading this book than I ever did in a history class.
There are some powerful themes throughout the novel, including immigration, racism and religion (in particular the Catholic/Protestant divide which has been prevalent for a long time). The author really doesn't shy away from those tough subjects.
There were some interesting characters, but I liked Anne the best. She's a smart, ambitious, if a little naïve, journalist trying to make it in the newspaper business that even back in 2004 was shrinking.
There were several different points of view in the book, along with the back and forth in the timeline that I found it a little hard to keep everything straight in my mind. Also, I felt it was a little heavier on the drama rather than the mystery, but of course that's just my opinion.
Under the bridge is a gritty debut that really doesn't pull any punches!
Under the bridge is a mix of historical drama and mystery which really teaches you something about the history of Liverpool!
The story centres around Garston, a suburb in the south of Liverpool, and a place I don't believe I've visited, but it has a long and interesting history. Now I've lived in and around Liverpool my entire life and I used to think I knew a thing or two about the place, but after reading this novel I realise I'm woefully uninformed! Seriously, I think I learnt more about my own area reading this book than I ever did in a history class.
There are some powerful themes throughout the novel, including immigration, racism and religion (in particular the Catholic/Protestant divide which has been prevalent for a long time). The author really doesn't shy away from those tough subjects.
There were some interesting characters, but I liked Anne the best. She's a smart, ambitious, if a little naïve, journalist trying to make it in the newspaper business that even back in 2004 was shrinking.
There were several different points of view in the book, along with the back and forth in the timeline that I found it a little hard to keep everything straight in my mind. Also, I felt it was a little heavier on the drama rather than the mystery, but of course that's just my opinion.
Under the bridge is a gritty debut that really doesn't pull any punches!
March 11, 2022
You can find my full review on my blog, The Bookwyrm's Den, here.
Many thanks to TheWriteReads and Northodox Press for a copy in exchange for an honest, unbiased review.
This book wasn’t quite what I had expected, but it was fun just the same. Byrne sweeps the reader into Liverpool, both historical and contemporary (ish), in this murder mystery that spans several decades. Under the Bridge is a book that spans genres, combining a thriller with a murder mystery with historical fiction in a race to solve a murder that went unnoticed . . . and some people want to keep it that way.
So I thought I’d go ahead and give you five reasons to check out Under the Bridge yourself, just in case you’re on the fence. (Which is a dangerous place to be . . . you could fall! Didn’t your mama teach you any better?!)
1. THE OPENING LINES/SCENE.
Sometimes you get an opening that just grabs you by the collar and pulls you right into the story. I’d say that’s definitely the case here. There are a lot of ways to describe the discovery of a random (and, let’s be honest, unwanted) bone, but I’m rather partial to the way Byrne does it. The first scene absolutely grabbed my attention and made me super curious about this murder victim, who they were, and why their murder went unnoticed and unsolved.
2. THE TONGUE-IN-CHEEK BRITISH HUMOR AND BANTER.
I absolutely love humor, and few do it better than the British! This is not, by any means, a funny book, per se. It does have its moments, though. Best of all, due to the heavier subject matter, they’re likely to catch you off guard, which just makes the reaction that much better! There were definitely moments that caught me unawares and I snorted out loud at a comment or bit of banter.
3. THE RACISM! WAIT . . . LET ME EXPLAIN.
While I think we can all agree that racism is bad, discussions about racism are good. Especially when it’s in a historical context that is often swept under the rug and ignored. I’m not exactly well-versed on my Liverpool history, being an American, so I thought the look into its checkered history was even more interesting. A major element of the story is that it’s from the point of view of two people of Irish descent: one white Irish and one Black Irish from Barbados.
I appreciate how difficult of a subject this is, but I enjoyed seeing the way Byrne portrays it. He doesn’t shy away from the often ugly side of how the Irish were treated.
4. THE DANGER! I MEAN, SOMEONE COMMITTED MURDER AND THEN HID IT FOR A REASON, RIGHT?!
Pro tip: murderers tend not to like it when you dig up their victims and then try to stick your nose where it doesn’t belong and, like, bring them to justice. Obviously. Anne is trying to do the right thing in solving a cold case . . . but at what cost? It’s pretty clear that someone (or maybe someones?) don’t want her asking questions, and they let their displeasure be known, in no uncertain terms. But hey, what would a murder mystery be without at least some danger, right?
5. THE DUAL TIMELINE, BETWEEN 2004 WHEN THE BODY IS DISCOVERED AND 1955, WHEN THE MURDER OCCURRED.
I thought this was an interesting storytelling device that really heightened the mystery. No one knows who the murder victim is, but Michael seems to be the thread between the two timelines. When Anne questions him, he seems to know more than he lets on.
At first glance, the timelines feel separate, except for the one character tying them together. As the mystery unravels, though, they’re more tied than they seem . . . and sometimes in unexpected ways! I also liked the very different treatment characters get between the timelines, the different impact that being Irish has on them. In 1955, it seems obvious the sort of reaction the Irish received and their treatment. In 2004, though, Anne and Vinny are both of Irish descent, and their crisis is less in regards to racism and more a crisis of identity, which I thought was extremely interesting!
Many thanks to TheWriteReads and Northodox Press for a copy in exchange for an honest, unbiased review.
This book wasn’t quite what I had expected, but it was fun just the same. Byrne sweeps the reader into Liverpool, both historical and contemporary (ish), in this murder mystery that spans several decades. Under the Bridge is a book that spans genres, combining a thriller with a murder mystery with historical fiction in a race to solve a murder that went unnoticed . . . and some people want to keep it that way.
So I thought I’d go ahead and give you five reasons to check out Under the Bridge yourself, just in case you’re on the fence. (Which is a dangerous place to be . . . you could fall! Didn’t your mama teach you any better?!)
1. THE OPENING LINES/SCENE.
Sometimes you get an opening that just grabs you by the collar and pulls you right into the story. I’d say that’s definitely the case here. There are a lot of ways to describe the discovery of a random (and, let’s be honest, unwanted) bone, but I’m rather partial to the way Byrne does it. The first scene absolutely grabbed my attention and made me super curious about this murder victim, who they were, and why their murder went unnoticed and unsolved.
2. THE TONGUE-IN-CHEEK BRITISH HUMOR AND BANTER.
I absolutely love humor, and few do it better than the British! This is not, by any means, a funny book, per se. It does have its moments, though. Best of all, due to the heavier subject matter, they’re likely to catch you off guard, which just makes the reaction that much better! There were definitely moments that caught me unawares and I snorted out loud at a comment or bit of banter.
3. THE RACISM! WAIT . . . LET ME EXPLAIN.
While I think we can all agree that racism is bad, discussions about racism are good. Especially when it’s in a historical context that is often swept under the rug and ignored. I’m not exactly well-versed on my Liverpool history, being an American, so I thought the look into its checkered history was even more interesting. A major element of the story is that it’s from the point of view of two people of Irish descent: one white Irish and one Black Irish from Barbados.
I appreciate how difficult of a subject this is, but I enjoyed seeing the way Byrne portrays it. He doesn’t shy away from the often ugly side of how the Irish were treated.
4. THE DANGER! I MEAN, SOMEONE COMMITTED MURDER AND THEN HID IT FOR A REASON, RIGHT?!
Pro tip: murderers tend not to like it when you dig up their victims and then try to stick your nose where it doesn’t belong and, like, bring them to justice. Obviously. Anne is trying to do the right thing in solving a cold case . . . but at what cost? It’s pretty clear that someone (or maybe someones?) don’t want her asking questions, and they let their displeasure be known, in no uncertain terms. But hey, what would a murder mystery be without at least some danger, right?
5. THE DUAL TIMELINE, BETWEEN 2004 WHEN THE BODY IS DISCOVERED AND 1955, WHEN THE MURDER OCCURRED.
I thought this was an interesting storytelling device that really heightened the mystery. No one knows who the murder victim is, but Michael seems to be the thread between the two timelines. When Anne questions him, he seems to know more than he lets on.
At first glance, the timelines feel separate, except for the one character tying them together. As the mystery unravels, though, they’re more tied than they seem . . . and sometimes in unexpected ways! I also liked the very different treatment characters get between the timelines, the different impact that being Irish has on them. In 1955, it seems obvious the sort of reaction the Irish received and their treatment. In 2004, though, Anne and Vinny are both of Irish descent, and their crisis is less in regards to racism and more a crisis of identity, which I thought was extremely interesting!
March 13, 2022
Under the Bridge is a murder mystery set in Liverpool and spanning many decades. Throughout the novel, it becomes clear that the author has spent a great deal of time and effort researching his subject – the city of Liverpool itself, its history, society, and culture all become almost palpable in a way. It almost feels as if Liverpool is the main character together with Vinny, Anne, Michael, and the rest of the supporting roles.
While I usually enjoy an alternating POV, I found the numerous changes in the focalisation in this novel a bit hard to follow at times. Together with the back and forth in the timeline, it was getting a bit hard to keep apart what was in the past and what is now.
Other than that, I think this is an engaging novel with a murder mystery as a base, but there is a whole lot more going on here. If you want to learn a bit about Liverpool’s history and how it’s tied to the Irish, while also being entertained reading a mystery, this is the book for you!
For my full review please visit my blog:
https://theartsyreader.com/book-revie...
While I usually enjoy an alternating POV, I found the numerous changes in the focalisation in this novel a bit hard to follow at times. Together with the back and forth in the timeline, it was getting a bit hard to keep apart what was in the past and what is now.
Other than that, I think this is an engaging novel with a murder mystery as a base, but there is a whole lot more going on here. If you want to learn a bit about Liverpool’s history and how it’s tied to the Irish, while also being entertained reading a mystery, this is the book for you!
For my full review please visit my blog:
https://theartsyreader.com/book-revie...
March 3, 2021
Excellent read. Smoothly combined the past and present, a page turner that keeps you rivetted. Looking forward to ordering my next book.
January 10, 2021
Thoroughly enjoyed this debut crime novel from Liverpool author Jack Byrne, a mystery that takes in the twentieth century history of Liverpool’s Irish diaspora, dock workers and unions. Under The Bridge turned out to have more than a little relevance to my own family history, since my grandfather and great-uncles were stevedores and union activists.
The tone and dialogue were perfect throughout, and the historical facts, social commentary and consideration of identity were woven in without detracting from the story. I was impressed at how the author handled the tricky time-slip aspects – it was seamless and easy to follow. I enjoyed reading about locations so very familiar to me, but also found that I learned a lot about my home city.
The characters of rookie journalist Anne and historian-shoe-shop-worker Vinny were original and vividly drawn; I hope they will appear in future books as I understand this will become a series.
My grandfather, an avid reader and the ultimate scouser, would have loved this book. A crime thriller for scousers and non-scousers alike to devour.
The tone and dialogue were perfect throughout, and the historical facts, social commentary and consideration of identity were woven in without detracting from the story. I was impressed at how the author handled the tricky time-slip aspects – it was seamless and easy to follow. I enjoyed reading about locations so very familiar to me, but also found that I learned a lot about my home city.
The characters of rookie journalist Anne and historian-shoe-shop-worker Vinny were original and vividly drawn; I hope they will appear in future books as I understand this will become a series.
My grandfather, an avid reader and the ultimate scouser, would have loved this book. A crime thriller for scousers and non-scousers alike to devour.
March 16, 2022
Book source ~ Tour
In the year 2004, a skeleton is discovered by a construction crew in Liverpool. Anne McCarthy is sent my her newspaper to cover the story, but she and her friend Vinny Doyle find themselves digging up something much more than an old murder mystery. And it all revolves around an old caretaker named Michael.
In 1955 and 1975, Michael’s life is told in pieces, showing what life was like back in the day and how he ended up finding a skeleton with ties to his past. But sometimes, things are best left buried.
There’s a lot of history to be told about Liverpool. None of which I was even aware of. With so much old turmoil in the city it’s no wonder some of it is coming home to roost. I find a lot of the history interesting even though it’s not really my thing. I’ll have to recommend this story to my husband. He loves history.
The story itself moves along at a fast clip and the changing timelines fill it out quite nicely. The characters are decently developed, but I find the writing very sparse and choppy. The slang is also something that I struggled with. Overall this is a great mystery where I was compelled to find out what was going on.
In the year 2004, a skeleton is discovered by a construction crew in Liverpool. Anne McCarthy is sent my her newspaper to cover the story, but she and her friend Vinny Doyle find themselves digging up something much more than an old murder mystery. And it all revolves around an old caretaker named Michael.
In 1955 and 1975, Michael’s life is told in pieces, showing what life was like back in the day and how he ended up finding a skeleton with ties to his past. But sometimes, things are best left buried.
There’s a lot of history to be told about Liverpool. None of which I was even aware of. With so much old turmoil in the city it’s no wonder some of it is coming home to roost. I find a lot of the history interesting even though it’s not really my thing. I’ll have to recommend this story to my husband. He loves history.
The story itself moves along at a fast clip and the changing timelines fill it out quite nicely. The characters are decently developed, but I find the writing very sparse and choppy. The slang is also something that I struggled with. Overall this is a great mystery where I was compelled to find out what was going on.
March 13, 2022
There are a lot of murder mysteries on the market these days, but Under The Bridge by Jack Byrne stands out for a few reasons. The book is extremely well researched and will give you an inside knowledge of Liverpool and it’s history and links with irish immigrants which you won’t find in any other fiction novel that I can think of.
We are talking right down to the politics of unionisation, terrorism, social and racial struggles, petty crime and more. All of this is told from multiple characters who each get their own chapters in both past and present (the book jumps through time, told both in the present day and as far back in the 1950s.)
If that all sounds like a lot it is, but Byrne does a pretty good job of keeping everything flowing organically so it still feels like a story and not just an info dump. All in all it is a good effort from a (first time?) author which should have particular appeal to second or third generation irish in Liverpool who want to learn a little about what life was like for their parents or grandparents while still getting a story along the way.
I received this book for free for a book tour but that has not affected my opinion
We are talking right down to the politics of unionisation, terrorism, social and racial struggles, petty crime and more. All of this is told from multiple characters who each get their own chapters in both past and present (the book jumps through time, told both in the present day and as far back in the 1950s.)
If that all sounds like a lot it is, but Byrne does a pretty good job of keeping everything flowing organically so it still feels like a story and not just an info dump. All in all it is a good effort from a (first time?) author which should have particular appeal to second or third generation irish in Liverpool who want to learn a little about what life was like for their parents or grandparents while still getting a story along the way.
I received this book for free for a book tour but that has not affected my opinion
March 31, 2021
This book is a interesting mix of social history and murder mystery that provided a fascinating insight into cultural and social tensions in the Garston and Speke areas of Liverpool in the 1970s. It is really obvious from the writing that the author is passionate about presenting an authentic portrayal of the period and the area, and has done a lot of research into the time period; this shines through in the writing.
The book is a dual timeline story. The first timeline involves reporter, Anne, who is chasing down a story on the identity of a skeleton uncovered on a building site in the docks area of Liverpool in 2004. Her investigation takes her into the world of union activity around the docklands in the 1970s and criminal gangs that were active at the time. Her ferreting around in this history leaves her up against some people who would rather the past stay buried. At the same time, her friend, Vinny, who is working on a social history of Irish immigration into Liverpool post-war, fears the skeleton may uncover secrets that are too close to his own family history.
The second timeline takes us back to the 1970s and the life of Michael, an Irish immigrant who is drawn into the criminal world when he first arrives in Liverpool, until a dramatic event at the time leads him to reconsider the path he is on. When Anne meets Michael in the present, he becomes the key to unlocking the skeleton’s identity.
The dual timeline works really well, and I found the accurately researched and portrayed history of this time and this area of Liverpool really interesting. For anyone interested in social history, and who enjoys books with real historical fact woven into a fictional narrative, this book will be really appealing. It made me go off and do some further reading about one particular event that is referred to in the book, which is always a sure sign that a book has grabbed my attention. The mystery aspect of the book is also really well done and kept me turning the pages from beginning to end.
The one thing that let this book down a little was the characterisation, particularly of Anne and Vinny in the modern day. They just didn’t feel completely developed, to the point that I didn’t really become invested in what was happening to them or in their relationship. This was not true of the characters back in the 1970s, they were much more alive and vibrant on the page, and may these sections of the book more appealing. It really felt like the author was much more enthralled by the historical aspects of the story than the modern day, which gave the book a little bit of an uneven feel. Richer, more honest development of the younger characters was needed for this book to be a standout.
Overall, this was a really engaging mystery novel, with a strong sense of time and place that would make an excellent read for anyone who is interested in social history and likes this kind of fact-based fictional telling of it.
The book is a dual timeline story. The first timeline involves reporter, Anne, who is chasing down a story on the identity of a skeleton uncovered on a building site in the docks area of Liverpool in 2004. Her investigation takes her into the world of union activity around the docklands in the 1970s and criminal gangs that were active at the time. Her ferreting around in this history leaves her up against some people who would rather the past stay buried. At the same time, her friend, Vinny, who is working on a social history of Irish immigration into Liverpool post-war, fears the skeleton may uncover secrets that are too close to his own family history.
The second timeline takes us back to the 1970s and the life of Michael, an Irish immigrant who is drawn into the criminal world when he first arrives in Liverpool, until a dramatic event at the time leads him to reconsider the path he is on. When Anne meets Michael in the present, he becomes the key to unlocking the skeleton’s identity.
The dual timeline works really well, and I found the accurately researched and portrayed history of this time and this area of Liverpool really interesting. For anyone interested in social history, and who enjoys books with real historical fact woven into a fictional narrative, this book will be really appealing. It made me go off and do some further reading about one particular event that is referred to in the book, which is always a sure sign that a book has grabbed my attention. The mystery aspect of the book is also really well done and kept me turning the pages from beginning to end.
The one thing that let this book down a little was the characterisation, particularly of Anne and Vinny in the modern day. They just didn’t feel completely developed, to the point that I didn’t really become invested in what was happening to them or in their relationship. This was not true of the characters back in the 1970s, they were much more alive and vibrant on the page, and may these sections of the book more appealing. It really felt like the author was much more enthralled by the historical aspects of the story than the modern day, which gave the book a little bit of an uneven feel. Richer, more honest development of the younger characters was needed for this book to be a standout.
Overall, this was a really engaging mystery novel, with a strong sense of time and place that would make an excellent read for anyone who is interested in social history and likes this kind of fact-based fictional telling of it.
July 13, 2020
Under the Bridge by Jack Byrne is a novel that will delight Irish descendants. It explores the political and religious boundaries that separate the Irish people and the corruption of men use against them through generations. Anne is just beginning her career as a journalist when a skeleton is unearthed and they send her to investigate. Naive to the Irish culture, Anne recruits her friend, Vinny, to help her navigate through their society. Caught up in the story, Anne cannot see the secrets and lies that are evading her. Vinny has his own issues as he researches the effects of the Irish people as they migrate to Liverpool. Vinny has buried events that could sabotage his project and put them both in danger.
Jack Byrne gives the reader a glimpse into the past as Michael and Paddy take distinct paths in an Irish community. Under the Bridge accurately pictures the fierce loyalty, beliefs, and conflict embedded in them. Though the plot centers on the mystery of a body found buried many years ago, the author beautifully weaves in Vinny’s need to understand who he really is. I love how he finds his own identity as a person. One of the last chapters explain the difference between the “I am” and the “we are” mentality that causes us to lose our individual personality. Overall, the story unfolded slowly as the characters, Irish mindset, and locations were set, but after the first few chapters I was hooked. I loved the conclusion and the answers Vinny and Anne discovered.
Review written by Peggy Jo Wipf for Readers' Favorite.
Jack Byrne gives the reader a glimpse into the past as Michael and Paddy take distinct paths in an Irish community. Under the Bridge accurately pictures the fierce loyalty, beliefs, and conflict embedded in them. Though the plot centers on the mystery of a body found buried many years ago, the author beautifully weaves in Vinny’s need to understand who he really is. I love how he finds his own identity as a person. One of the last chapters explain the difference between the “I am” and the “we are” mentality that causes us to lose our individual personality. Overall, the story unfolded slowly as the characters, Irish mindset, and locations were set, but after the first few chapters I was hooked. I loved the conclusion and the answers Vinny and Anne discovered.
Review written by Peggy Jo Wipf for Readers' Favorite.
January 10, 2021
Thoroughly enjoyed this debut crime novel from Liverpool author Jack Byrne, a mystery that takes in the twentieth century history of Liverpool’s Irish diaspora, dock workers and unions. Under The Bridge turned out to have more than a little relevance to my own family history, since my grandfather and great-uncles were stevedores and union activists.
The tone and dialogue were perfect throughout, and the historical facts, social commentary and consideration of identity were woven in without detracting from the story. I was impressed at how the author handled the tricky time-slip aspects – it was seamless and easy to follow. I enjoyed reading about locations so very familiar to me, but also found that I learned a lot about my home city.
The characters of rookie journalist Anne and historian-shoe-shop-worker Vinny were original and vividly drawn; I hope they will appear in future books as I understand this will become a series.
My grandfather, an avid reader and the ultimate scouser, would have loved this book. A crime thriller for scousers and non-scousers alike to devour.
The tone and dialogue were perfect throughout, and the historical facts, social commentary and consideration of identity were woven in without detracting from the story. I was impressed at how the author handled the tricky time-slip aspects – it was seamless and easy to follow. I enjoyed reading about locations so very familiar to me, but also found that I learned a lot about my home city.
The characters of rookie journalist Anne and historian-shoe-shop-worker Vinny were original and vividly drawn; I hope they will appear in future books as I understand this will become a series.
My grandfather, an avid reader and the ultimate scouser, would have loved this book. A crime thriller for scousers and non-scousers alike to devour.
March 12, 2022
If you want to learn all about the history of Liverpool while uncovering a twisty murder mystery with a diverse and engaging set of characters then this is definitely the book for you. I always like to broaden my horizons and this deals with a lot of important themes in Irish history and with the general relations between Irish and English over the past century so when I saw it on TWR tour I decided to give it a go.
The book is certainly engaging and entertaining but I have to say it is quite an intricate beast with a large cast of characters to keep up with too. It combines what can be described as a historical guide book and social relations encyclopaedia of Liverpool with a gritty and exciting murder mystery. Its told from numerous POV’s and in different time periods. I think its a book that is worth investing the effort in but you will need to concentrate to follow along. The story is told from many POV’s the main ones being Vinny (A postgrad student) Anne (a reporter) and Michael (an Irish Immigrant) but there are many, many others too.
I loved the start. It jumps straight into the present day (well 2004) when Michael discovers a skeleton on his building site. You might notice a little casual racism towards the Irish is evident pretty much right from the start and this does establish a bit of theme throughout, the racism towards the Irish is not necessarily overt, but subtle and I think that is true of the vast majority of racism in real life. Not people walking around burning crosses and wearing white sheets and rather just little comments and looks and generalisations.
From there the plot diverges into dual timelines. One with Vinny and Anne in the present trying to uncover the identity of the skeleton, the second is back in the 50s,60s and 70s and follows Michael’s story. I think the book’s biggest strength its its ’worldbuilding’ if I can talk about a non fantasy book that way. Its just clear that the author has a vast amount of knowledge of the times and areas. I’m not sure if the author’s character building was at quite the same level, but it was at least adequate in this area and good enough to keep me turning the pages.
All in all I’d give it 3.5 to 4 stars and a definite recommendation to anybody looking to learn a little about the history of Liverpool and its Irish connections while still getting an entertaining story along the way.
The book is certainly engaging and entertaining but I have to say it is quite an intricate beast with a large cast of characters to keep up with too. It combines what can be described as a historical guide book and social relations encyclopaedia of Liverpool with a gritty and exciting murder mystery. Its told from numerous POV’s and in different time periods. I think its a book that is worth investing the effort in but you will need to concentrate to follow along. The story is told from many POV’s the main ones being Vinny (A postgrad student) Anne (a reporter) and Michael (an Irish Immigrant) but there are many, many others too.
I loved the start. It jumps straight into the present day (well 2004) when Michael discovers a skeleton on his building site. You might notice a little casual racism towards the Irish is evident pretty much right from the start and this does establish a bit of theme throughout, the racism towards the Irish is not necessarily overt, but subtle and I think that is true of the vast majority of racism in real life. Not people walking around burning crosses and wearing white sheets and rather just little comments and looks and generalisations.
From there the plot diverges into dual timelines. One with Vinny and Anne in the present trying to uncover the identity of the skeleton, the second is back in the 50s,60s and 70s and follows Michael’s story. I think the book’s biggest strength its its ’worldbuilding’ if I can talk about a non fantasy book that way. Its just clear that the author has a vast amount of knowledge of the times and areas. I’m not sure if the author’s character building was at quite the same level, but it was at least adequate in this area and good enough to keep me turning the pages.
All in all I’d give it 3.5 to 4 stars and a definite recommendation to anybody looking to learn a little about the history of Liverpool and its Irish connections while still getting an entertaining story along the way.
February 8, 2025
A brilliantly captivating read that was tense, emotional and felt so real.
I knew very quickly I was reading something special with Under the Bridge. A story of the past and the present. The history and links between Liverpool and Ireland ( which I knew little about) was fascinating. I was absolutely pulled in and captivated soon becoming really invested in Paddy and Vinny. Following Vinny trying to learn more about his dad and uncover potential truths he never knew connected to the present.
It is a compelling story that left me questioning had I really read a fictional story? It felt so real and being a visual reader I really felt I was right there with Vinny and Paddy as their life experiences unfolded and the story was told. Exceptional writing and an exceptional brilliant story.
As soon as I finished I went straight to book 2 Across the Water to carry on following Vinny on his journey of discovery.
I highly recommend for any crime, historical fiction fans you are in for a real treat.
I knew very quickly I was reading something special with Under the Bridge. A story of the past and the present. The history and links between Liverpool and Ireland ( which I knew little about) was fascinating. I was absolutely pulled in and captivated soon becoming really invested in Paddy and Vinny. Following Vinny trying to learn more about his dad and uncover potential truths he never knew connected to the present.
It is a compelling story that left me questioning had I really read a fictional story? It felt so real and being a visual reader I really felt I was right there with Vinny and Paddy as their life experiences unfolded and the story was told. Exceptional writing and an exceptional brilliant story.
As soon as I finished I went straight to book 2 Across the Water to carry on following Vinny on his journey of discovery.
I highly recommend for any crime, historical fiction fans you are in for a real treat.
November 6, 2022
The year is 2004, a body has been discovered in the Liverpool Docklands. Anne McCarthy, a new reporter on a local newspaper, is keen to investigate the case and finds that she has let herself in for more than she bargained for.
The body dates back to the 1970s, a time of industrial strife and smuggling.
By getting involved in the investigations, Anne uncovers hidden histories and secrets and the lives of the Wicklow Boys, a group of men smuggling contraband into the docks. Meanwhile, Anne's friend Vinny, who is starting a research project into what makes up the Liverpudlian identity, starts to question what he knows about hos own family history.
This is a thoroughly researched, tautly written thriller bringing in the history of Irish immigration into Liverpool and questions around Liverpudlian identity, while telling an excellent story.
Disclaimer: I won this book in a competition on Twitter.
The body dates back to the 1970s, a time of industrial strife and smuggling.
By getting involved in the investigations, Anne uncovers hidden histories and secrets and the lives of the Wicklow Boys, a group of men smuggling contraband into the docks. Meanwhile, Anne's friend Vinny, who is starting a research project into what makes up the Liverpudlian identity, starts to question what he knows about hos own family history.
This is a thoroughly researched, tautly written thriller bringing in the history of Irish immigration into Liverpool and questions around Liverpudlian identity, while telling an excellent story.
Disclaimer: I won this book in a competition on Twitter.
March 16, 2022
Under the bridge is a murder mystery that spans decades. Its well researched and fairly well written. I never really got into it as much as I would have liked but that doesn’t mean it is’t good, I just didn’t engage with the characters as much as I would have liked. Of those characters I thought Anne was the best, but the others felt more like they were there just to move the plot along rather than people you could really believe in. The book did impress from the sense that the author clearly knows a lot about the history of Liverpool and the society and culture there, especially as it relates to Irish immigrants, but not so much from the character perspective.
Even so it is was still an interesting read simply for the sheer depth of knowledge about the history of Irish in Liverpool that the author displayed. If that is something that interests you I think you will enjoy it.
Even so it is was still an interesting read simply for the sheer depth of knowledge about the history of Irish in Liverpool that the author displayed. If that is something that interests you I think you will enjoy it.
December 30, 2021
My review
This book follows the story about Anne and Vinny uncovering a crime that happened many years ago. I loved the dual time line so we could go back in time and really see what happened. The characters were relatable and I loved Anne and her determination to find out the truth no matter what.
I loved the writing style of this Author and the storyline kept me gripped the whole way through. I am so intrigued to see what happens next in these stories as this was book 1.
A quote from the book that I loved “Halfway between the land and the sea, halfway between the city and the world outside, but belonging completely to neither”
This book follows the story about Anne and Vinny uncovering a crime that happened many years ago. I loved the dual time line so we could go back in time and really see what happened. The characters were relatable and I loved Anne and her determination to find out the truth no matter what.
I loved the writing style of this Author and the storyline kept me gripped the whole way through. I am so intrigued to see what happens next in these stories as this was book 1.
A quote from the book that I loved “Halfway between the land and the sea, halfway between the city and the world outside, but belonging completely to neither”
November 2, 2025
Set in 2004, this was an interesting crime novel in which a young reporter + budding masters degree student investigate the discovery of human remains in a Liverpool building site. What follows is the story of the Irish immigrant experience in the docks from the early 1950s and the unions as we follow the story of criminal gangs, corrupt police, and more importantly, families. it will apparently be a trilogy, so I plan to read more.
January 9, 2022
A good read for those who enjoy a whodunit mixed with social history.
Strong storyline and characters. I enjoyed finding out more about Liverpool through the story.
Would recommend for a book club to read.
Strong storyline and characters. I enjoyed finding out more about Liverpool through the story.
Would recommend for a book club to read.
April 21, 2023
This crime fiction novel had me on the edge of my seat from start to finish. I couldn't put it down!
January 15, 2022
Review: Under the Bridge – The Liverpool Mystery Series by Jack Byrne
I want to start by thanking Jack Bryne for reaching out and gifting me a copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. I also want to say that one reviewer has likened this book to ‘a love letter to liverpool’ and I have to say they are not wrong.
The story is realistic, driven and sometimes gritty. Following a mixture of characters with varied backgrounds and histories. Each one brings their own unique voice and focus to the story. Obviously, this is a mystery book so I will not be spoiling any major parts of the plot. Split primarily between 1955 and 2004 connecting the stories of those involved across the decades.
In 2004 a skeleton is discovered in the Liverpool docklands and this is only the start of unearthing long buried secrets. Budding reporter, Anne McCarthey, dives into the case with abandon. She meets Michael, an old Irish Caretaker who seems to know more than he is letting on and may even have connections to the body found.
At the same time, Vinny Doyle a friend of Anne is starting his postgrad degree on Liverpool’s rich immigrant history and the burgeoning sense of Scouse identity. So focused on the wider history Vinny has failed to look into his own ancestry and Michael might know about his father’s disappearance in the 70s
Meanwhile back in 1955 we find Michael escaping violence in Ireland and fresh off the boat. He falls in love with Wicklow boys Jack Power and Paddy Doyle, smugglers of contraband through the docks putting them at odds with unions while they rally the dock workers against the rackets and strikebreakers.
A story of corruption, secret police and sectarianism slowly unravels. Is the truth going to finally get out? As the conflicts begin to heighten, Michael starts to question the life sprawling out ahead of him, in the present, Anne is racing to solve the mystery but she might not be prepared for what she will find.
As I have said before the story is fantastic, the pace helps to build the sense of suspense and mystery. That isn’t to say it is slow paced, far from it but we aren’t given too much information too quickly learning with the characters as we go – the sign of a great mystery.
The description and attention to the city and it’s different denizens is extraordinary. Pair with this the social and political elements of the novel and it is no wonder the book is getting glowing reviews. I cannot wait to read future titles by Byrne. His style is easy to follow but also deep and personal. Each character carries a unique voice and perspective coupled with the brilliant details of the city make this a wonderful read. It deals with some modern issues keeping a perfect balance and portraying the lives of the people living in one of the UK’s greatest cities as well as the struggles these people face. It truly is a love letter.
I want to start by thanking Jack Bryne for reaching out and gifting me a copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. I also want to say that one reviewer has likened this book to ‘a love letter to liverpool’ and I have to say they are not wrong.
The story is realistic, driven and sometimes gritty. Following a mixture of characters with varied backgrounds and histories. Each one brings their own unique voice and focus to the story. Obviously, this is a mystery book so I will not be spoiling any major parts of the plot. Split primarily between 1955 and 2004 connecting the stories of those involved across the decades.
In 2004 a skeleton is discovered in the Liverpool docklands and this is only the start of unearthing long buried secrets. Budding reporter, Anne McCarthey, dives into the case with abandon. She meets Michael, an old Irish Caretaker who seems to know more than he is letting on and may even have connections to the body found.
At the same time, Vinny Doyle a friend of Anne is starting his postgrad degree on Liverpool’s rich immigrant history and the burgeoning sense of Scouse identity. So focused on the wider history Vinny has failed to look into his own ancestry and Michael might know about his father’s disappearance in the 70s
Meanwhile back in 1955 we find Michael escaping violence in Ireland and fresh off the boat. He falls in love with Wicklow boys Jack Power and Paddy Doyle, smugglers of contraband through the docks putting them at odds with unions while they rally the dock workers against the rackets and strikebreakers.
A story of corruption, secret police and sectarianism slowly unravels. Is the truth going to finally get out? As the conflicts begin to heighten, Michael starts to question the life sprawling out ahead of him, in the present, Anne is racing to solve the mystery but she might not be prepared for what she will find.
As I have said before the story is fantastic, the pace helps to build the sense of suspense and mystery. That isn’t to say it is slow paced, far from it but we aren’t given too much information too quickly learning with the characters as we go – the sign of a great mystery.
The description and attention to the city and it’s different denizens is extraordinary. Pair with this the social and political elements of the novel and it is no wonder the book is getting glowing reviews. I cannot wait to read future titles by Byrne. His style is easy to follow but also deep and personal. Each character carries a unique voice and perspective coupled with the brilliant details of the city make this a wonderful read. It deals with some modern issues keeping a perfect balance and portraying the lives of the people living in one of the UK’s greatest cities as well as the struggles these people face. It truly is a love letter.
July 7, 2021
Crime fiction, for me, is one of those expressions that when I see it, I automatically put a book down. The troubled hardboiled UK detective standing by flashing blue lights in the semi-darkness and rain is beyond over-saturated at this point, yet the public hunger for it is inextricably insatiable.
I found it strange, then, when I closed the final page of Under The Bridge and thought about how much I'd enjoyed it.
The usual sort of crime stories I've gone for in the past are indeed historical ones such as Robert McCammon's brilliant Matthew Corbett series or Laura Shepherd-Robinson's Blood and Sugar, but this was the first time in a long while with a contemporary setting that I found myself making extra time to read more to find out who was the corpse discovered at the beginning of the novel.
With dual story timelines covering a span of 40-odd years and with numerous colourful characters, the game as to working out the mystery is a good one in Byrne's gripping debut.
Highly recommended for those with an interest in mystery novels or authentically northern fiction!
5*
I found it strange, then, when I closed the final page of Under The Bridge and thought about how much I'd enjoyed it.
The usual sort of crime stories I've gone for in the past are indeed historical ones such as Robert McCammon's brilliant Matthew Corbett series or Laura Shepherd-Robinson's Blood and Sugar, but this was the first time in a long while with a contemporary setting that I found myself making extra time to read more to find out who was the corpse discovered at the beginning of the novel.
With dual story timelines covering a span of 40-odd years and with numerous colourful characters, the game as to working out the mystery is a good one in Byrne's gripping debut.
Highly recommended for those with an interest in mystery novels or authentically northern fiction!
5*
June 18, 2022
A fascinating insight into Liverpool and its people, past and present, all wrapped up in a chilling mystery. A Great read.
June 20, 2021
This is about the Liverpool we don’t know. No Beatles, just real people, in a gritty city, trying to live and work. The docklands are the place that unleashed a world of long buried secrets, and an immigrant history filled with characters and violence, and love. A rare glimpse into a world I was unfamiliar with, and now, want to know more about. Thanks Jack Byrne for this tribute.
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