McKenna’s impressive debut novel takes an interesting slant on this fascinating subject by filtering it through the lens of a “slave narrative” which Lord Edward’s sister Lady Lucy FitzGerald coerced “faithful Tony” into writing, in order to salvage the lord’s reputation and good name after the doomed rebellion. “The family wanted to present Lord Edward in a pretty light, not as a traitor, so they could all get his confiscated money and land back.” It is in the liminal space between his official account and McKenna’s vivid reimaginings that the dramatic energy resides, providing us with a thought-provoking meditation on the nature of freedom and belonging.