Jack Holland is one of a handful of distinguished journalists who have been covering the Northern Ireland Troubles since the beginning. This concise history of the past 30 years is a worthy addition to the literature of the conflict. Nuggets of investigative reporting are presented against a background of authoritative analysis. Younger readers will find it a useful introduction to the North's sorry history; older hands will value the fresh detail provided on particular incidents and episodes. The book ends on a hopeful note, although the author warns that, "The peace process like the conflict fought before it will be a long and gruelling one, full of setbacks and frustrations and doubtless liable to be challenged by those who are unable to understand the nature of the transformation that has come over Ireland, north and south."