While I love history, anthropology, and criminalistics, I was only vaguely acquainted with Michael Collins before reading Sigerson’s The Assassination of Michael Collins. I decided to give it a read after coming across a blurb. I found the cover a bit chaotic, though. If I had seen a paperback version first, I probably wouldn’t have looked at the description on the back.

I enjoyed this read. Word of warning, though- this book follows a scholar’s bent, and the language reflects that. If you’re looking for something written more ‘mainstream’, this is probably not the book for you. However, if you enjoy the scholarly books, you should check this book out!

As I mentioned before, the story of Michael Collins was one mostly unfamiliar to me. Sigerson provides insights and information on the times, and the setting, of the events in question This gives a reader new to the story a proper context and frame of reference. I really liked the fact that the Kindle version I read had easy access to reference materials used by the author. I added a few more books to my ‘to be read’ pile.

Criminal cases fascinate me.

Sigerson lays out evidence, in context, to help try and make sense of this great mystery. He provides witness statements as well. However, rather than forcing his own conclusion upon the events in question, Sigerson follows the evidence. This is still a cold case, but the work Sigerson has put into it helps make things a bit clearer.

The Assassination of Michael Collins is definitely a must read if you have interest into this period of Irish history, or any interest in Collins himself. As mentioned before, this was all new to me, and Sigerson’s work engaged my interest in this fascinating man and his life. I have definite plans to pursue the books recommended by Sigerson, and ones used as resource materials.