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Big Boys' Rules

The SAS and the Secret Struggle Against the IRA

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Big Boys' Rules

By: Mark Urban
Narrated by: Mark Urban
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In 2007, after almost 40 years of operations, the SAS ceased operations in Northern Ireland and ended the longest operational commitment in the unit's history. It had been a brutal and ruthless conflict on both sides with the SAS famously describing its attitude to the use of lethal force as 'Big Boys' Rules'. Anyone suspect caught with a gun or bomb could expect to be shot without question.

Starting in 1969, Mark Urban reveals the extraordinary history of the special forces' operations in Northern Ireland and the unenviable dilemmas faced by intelligence chiefs engaged in a daily struggle against one of the world's most sophisticated terrorist organisations.

'This is a book that needed to be written and which fulfils the essentials of any Ulster story; it expands understanding beyond fragmented jingoism and newspaper headlines.' Sunday Times

©2012 Mark Urban (P)2024 Bonnier Books UK Armed Forces Freedom & Security Military Military & War Politics & Government Special & Elite Forces World War I
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The story is boring and mundane and lacks interest just seems like a list of facts

Nothing

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Knew a lot of the stories and events from other books and podcasts, but a very steady pace through the troubles up in Northern Ireland kept it interesting. Fascinating and horrible, good listen, good narrator.

Thorough, mostly unbiased, and without pointing fingers.

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This book has lots to offer in the way of details about the operations of the various parties involved, but the presentation is marred by the bizarre decision of the author/narrator to break into a dodgy Irish accent when quoting Irish people.
I was kind of hoping Bob Marley had said something publicly about the troubles so we could hear the author attempt a Jamaican accent.
Weird.
Also he repeatedly pronounced covert as cavert.

Interesting and lots of detail but…

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Narration was excellent book was great well researched and very well written. Although not a lot of detail about early three years of troubles still very enjoyable

Clarity and content of book

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So having lived in the province, and been exposed to some experiences that you otherwise would rather not, I take issue with journalists who try to make a point ( one that is clearly biased, and slanted).

There are significant books available on the history of Northern Irelands troubles, that provide factual reflection on a challenging period for all who lived and continue to live there.

There is more than enough unwarranted and unfettered commentary on aspects of the past, without generating opinions that are so biased.

For a journalist who has a history of reporting for a major news broadcast company, this read, is beneath his experience, skill .

Disappointing book, so true reflection on history and events, perhaps try Martin Dillon, Susan Phoenix or the late Jack Holland

A sense of balance missing

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