Shake Hands with the Devil

The setting of the story is established in Dublin during 1921, a period marked by the Irish War of Independence. The chaotic environment significantly influences the lives and decisions of the characters involved in the conflict.

Kerry O'Shea, a young Irish-American medical student, faces personal challenges as he grapples with his studies at the College of Surgeons. Haunted by the traumatic experiences of World War I, he becomes disillusioned and detached from the political turmoil of his homeland.

Kerry meets fellow student Paddy Nolan, whose passionate involvement in the ongoing conflict sparks a change in Kerry's perspective. Their friendship deepens, drawing Kerry into the highly charged atmosphere of the Irish struggle against British rule.

During a critical IRA ambush, Paddy is grievously injured by British forces, pushing Kerry into a position of urgency and grief. As Paddy's life hangs in the balance, he implores Kerry to seek help from Professor Sean Lenihan, a hidden leader in the IRA.

Kerry reaches Sean Lenihan, who impressively removes the bullet from Paddy but is ultimately unable to save him. The loss profoundly affects Kerry, igniting a sense of guilt and urgency within him.

After leaving his medical textbook at the ambush site, Kerry finds himself pursued by authorities and takes refuge under the guidance of The General. This marks his gradual descent into the underground world of the IRA.

Kerry's new sanctuary evolves into an operational base for Chris Noonan's IRA unit. As he adapts to life in this environment, tensions rise over Kitty Brady's interactions with the men, showcasing the complications of their reality.

The conflict escalates when Liam O'Sullivan is hurt during an attempted escape from captivity. Kerry steps forward to treat Liam, further entrenching himself in the gritty realities and responsibilities of guerrilla warfare.

Kerry struggles with his loyalties to the IRA and his personal moral code. This inner turmoil intensifies when he is brutally beaten by British officer Colonel Smithson, marking a turning point in his commitment to the cause.

In a bid to save Kerry, Lenihan organizes a daring rescue operation, revealing both Kerry's own beliefs and the grim realities of war. This moment solidifies Kerry's decision to actively join the IRA in their fight.

In a desperate attempt to negotiate for the release of imprisoned comrades, Lenihan kidnaps Jennifer Curtis, widow of a British adviser. This act introduces yet another layer of complexity to Kerry's life and relationships amid the ongoing conflict.

As Kerry becomes increasingly embroiled in the chaos of war, he unexpectedly finds love with Jennifer. Despite the surrounding dangers, their relationship grows, providing moments of solace amidst the brutality of their reality.

Facing threats from both IRA and British forces, Kitty decides to leave Ireland, which deeply impacts Kerry. This decision presents him with a crossroads, forcing him to confront his future and commitments.

Lenihan meticulously prepares for an assassination attempt on Colonel Smithson at the docks, a pivotal moment that carries grave consequences. The looming sense of dread underscores the ever-present danger of their rebellion.

In the chaos of the assassination attempt, Kitty tragically loses her life, becoming an unwitting casualty of the conflict. The aftermath leaves the group devastated, underscoring the personal toll of the war and its intrusions into their lives.