Kindling of a Firebrand
This vital historical novel takes Fran Sweeney from Boston’s early 20th century Irish American neighborhoods to a life of action and influence where she fights powerful forces that threaten the democratic soul of her beloved city.
During the Great Depression and the war that follows, pro-Nazi organizations flood Boston with propaganda and terror tactics. Inspired by her Dad’s example during her childhood on the Charlestown waterfront and by her experience as an office worker in corporate America, Fran becomes a skilled activist and “fearless firebrand” speaking out for social justice and democracy.
The paper she starts, the Boston City Reporter, takes on Fascist, pro-Nazi and racist elements in Boston and beyond. Her words and actions, brave and smart, win national attention for the difference they make in Boston and set an example for action throughout the country.
Kindling of a Firebrand is a biographical novel, the imagined inner narrative of a life, built upon a base of established facts.
Praise for Kindling of a Firebrand
–Jamie Michele for Reader’s Favorite
Although a work of carefully crafted fiction, “Kindling of a Firebrand” by novelist Brenda Murphy is inspired by real people in real historical events and established facts. Original, exceptional, emotionally involving and intellectually engaging, “Kindling of a Firebrand” is a fascinating read from start to finish.
–Midwest Book Review
Kindling of a Firebrand by Brenda Murphy introduced me to a remarkable woman I had never known about before…Her willingness to speak out against injustice and stand up for her beliefs feels just as relevant now as it did during her lifetime. Fran reminded me a lot of Susan B. Anthony, whose words, “Failure is impossible,” perfectly match both of their experiences. …Fans of historical fiction based on real people or lesser-known stories from American history will want to read about Fran Sweeney.
–Jennifer Senick for Reader’s Favorite