Billy Summers by Stephen King features an assassin who only kills "bad men" and who commits to one final killing. It is a brilliantly enjoyable novel with a thrilling conclusion. I also loved Panenka by Rónán Hession. Adventures of a political nature are chronicled by In the Thick of It by Alan Duncan. These diaries of a former Tory MP and minister narrate the twists and turns of Brexit and the ups and downs of ministerial life. Confronting Leviathan by David Runciman is a collection of essays on the power of the state. The elegance and warmth of this collection will earn it classic status.
Paschal Donohoe is Minister for Finance
The Irish Times books of the year: Paschal Donohoe’s favourite titles of 2021
Seeking inspiration for a book to read or give as a gift? This selection could help you
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