I honestly didn’t know what to expect when I sat down to read this labour of love, but I found it utterly riveting.

Not simply because, living in West Cork, I’m familiar with the landscape and the important role it plays in the narrative – at times almost as important as the amazing cast of characters.But the extraordinary wealth of detail almost allowed me to form a personal relationship with many of the protagonists.

As a former filmmaker, the gripping final chapters detailing the battle itself scream for a film to be made – hopefully it’s a story that will catch the eye of one of the current crop of fine young Irish producers and directors. The book is a cracking read, and I’d be surprised if my response isn’t mirrored by that of the many people who continue to regard Crossbarry as a pivotal moment in the War of Independence.

Multi award winning film director, David Puttnam