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261
Novel • Fiction
•
Irish Literature•
Horror & SuspenseIreland • Contemporary
•
Mental Health•
Good & Evil2023
Viking
Adult
18+ years
In Old God’s Time by Sebastian Barry, Tom Kettle, a retired police detective living in a quiet Irish seaside town, is thrust back into his traumatic past as he becomes involved in a present-day investigation into crimes committed by priests, triggering complex memories and reflections on his life, including deeply entrenched themes of trauma, violence, and the passage of time. This source material contains depictions of physical and sexual violence against minors, suicide, drug abuse, terrorism, violence, and murder.
Melancholic
Contemplative
Mysterious
Emotional
25,671 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
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Sebastian Barry's Old God's Time is praised for its lyrical prose and compelling narrative, but some readers found its pacing slow. Barry's portrayal of complex characters and haunting themes resonate strongly, though a few noted that the intricate storyline occasionally felt convoluted. Overall, it's a powerful, emotional journey for fans of literary fiction.
A reader who relishes introspective narratives and complex character studies will treasure Old God's Time by Sebastian Barry. Fans of Kazuo Ishiguro's The Remains of the Day or Marilynne Robinson's Gilead will find a similarly profound exploration of memory, loss, and redemption in this poignant, lyrical tale.
25,671 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Tom’s wife, remembered for her physical beauty and spirit, who played a significant role in shaping their family.
Tom and June's children, noted for their distinct personalities and pursuits, who are central to the mystery surrounding their past.
Tom’s long-term police partner and close friend, remembered for his detailed work and supportive relationship with Tom.
Tom’s landlord, characterized by his wealth, gardening habits, and ambiguous presence between reality and imagination.
Seen as a gentle and spiritual presence, whose interactions with Tom hint at the novel's blending of reality and fantasy.
Tom’s neighbors representing societal struggles, as she and her son navigate the impacts of societal failures.
A mysterious figure associated with the atmospheric backdrop of the story, whose music and presence influence Tom's experiences.
Priests representing individual and systemic evils, central to the narrative's exploration of institutional corruption and abuse.
Officers from Tom’s past division, whose presence brings his history into focus and contrasts with his past partnership.
Tom’s former superior, connecting past and present investigations and reflecting on hierarchies within the police force.
261
Novel • Fiction
•
Irish Literature•
Horror & SuspenseIreland • Contemporary
•
Mental Health•
Good & Evil2023
Viking
Adult
18+ years
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