Hey folks, I've been waiting to share this exciting news with you for what feels like

a lifetime, so nearly two years ago I started writing a new book and I can finally tell

you all about it because it's not only finished, but it's on the way to the printers.

It's called Alita Legacy, a history of Ireland in 18 murders, and it's been published

by Harper Collins.

As the title suggests, it's a history of modern Ireland, but with a twist, it's told

through 18 murders that took place at key moments in our past.

While it's rooted in these 18 individual cases, it also explains wider history, such as

Ireland's complex relationship with Britain, and events such as The Great Hunger, The

Irish Revolution, and The Troubles.

As a listener to the show, you'll know I passionately believe history is a lot more than

just dates and facts.

It's about bringing the stories of ordinary people to the fore, exploring how they lived,

and looking at how they changed and shaped history.

So when Harper Collins approached me about writing a new book, I wanted to remain true

to this ethos, and I wrote this book with you, The listeners of the show in mind.

I decided that murder would make an interesting lens to focus on because it's one of those

rare moments when ordinary people's lives, relationships and actions are recorded in

detail, providing an insight into their world.

So in the 18 cases covered in Alita Legacy, you'll get a vivid insight into the most

important events in our history, but from the perspective of ordinary people.

For example, the murder of a poor labourer in the port of Dungaravan in 1846 helps understand

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