A fascinating book.  I could not put it down and honestly I would love to see a movie made so that Gertrude’s story can reach more people.  My grandfather was one of the ‘Special Police Constables’ in 1942 and I understand he helped in some capacity before the police from Glasgow arrived on the scene.

Jennifer Venema – (Vancouver, Canada)

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A detailed book that sheds new light on the murder of a Donegal born Wren based at a secret Scottish Military training facility in 1942.  This is an extraordinary volume of research that speaks out from every page.  It is a definitive account of the event and as such, Liam has served his aunt’s memory in a manner befitting her young life and his book stands as a lasting memorial to her.

This book also challenges the outcome of, and the conclusions reached by the investigating team at the time raising the unsettling question:  Did the Scottish Authorities allow Gertrude’s killer to evade justice.

It is a book worthy of reading given that few actually know of the circumstances and it will give the reader a thoroughly  researched volume of evidence that challenges the official ‘facts’ in the case and asks questions that never were answered. 

John McAteer – Tirconiall Tribune – (Buncrana, Co. Donegal)

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Well arranged and written.  Reading about Gertrude in Liam’s book I felt I knew her and would have been a person I would have loved to know.  Well done Liam for writing this book about your aunt and I am sure she is smiling down on you.

Ann Marie McGavigan –  (Sion Mills, Co. Tyrone)

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This is an extraordinary and deeply meaningful book.  In fact, it is more than just a book – it is a powerful act of Remembrance and an important contribution to our history and a moving personal tribute to a young woman whose life and death still echo across generations.

For too long, Gertrude’s story was forgotten – buried in the footnotes of history, but now thanks to the tireless efforts of her nephew, Liam, this book brings her story back into the light.

“A Wren for 99 Days” does two important things: First, it gives a beautifully written and deeply researched account of Gertrude’s life and second, it re-visits this long forgotten cold case, asking several bold and difficult questions such as who shot Gertrude and, did the original investigation fail to deliver Justice?.

I wish to commend Liam for his heartfelt and determined work. His book is a legacy – not just for Gertrude but for the entire community that raised her.  It ensures that her voice is heard, her sacrifice is honoured and her memory preserved.  Its contents speak to the power of history, storytelling and justice. 

It also reminds us why we must not stop telling our stories.

Ruairi McHugh (Mayor, Derry City and Strabane District Council)

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I’m only on page 57 and already totally engrossed in it.  A great read so far.

Geraldine Catterson (Strabane, Co. Tyrone)

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Somewhere in his writing, the late Terry Prachett, an English Author, Humourist and Satirist, said “No one is actually dead until the ripples they cause in the world die away”.  Liam’s book is a testament to this. He has given those ripples a mighty and loving stir. 

I have just finished reading his masterpiece – a beautifully crafted work of love, wisdom and research.  Well done.  I would be surprised if the TV and Film folk have not already approached him to buy the rights of reproduction.  It’s time for him to rest now, sit back and savour all that he has accomplished. 

May Kirkpatrick, (Retired Librarian, Strabane)

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“Can’t leave this book down”

Ann Donohoe (Drumkeen, Co. Donegal)

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I read this book and had it finished in no time.  A great but sad read. What a brilliant tribute to this lady.

Martina Doran (Lurgan, Co. Armagh)

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Thanks to this book, Gertrude Canning’s name now stands alongside those of countless women through the decades who have lost their lives to gender-based violence – often forgotten, seldom remembered but this book thanks to Liam, addresses that and will ensure Gertrude’s memory will endure.  “Gertrude Canning: A Wren for 99 Days” has brought her brief life and tragic death back into the light”.

Michelle Canning – (Criccieth, North Wales)