The book tells the story of Siobhán O Hanlon, a founding member of Féile an Phobail, a former political prisoner, a Sinn Féin activist, a community activist, a peace negotiator, an IRA Volunteer, a strong woman, a leader, an articulate advocate of the rights of citizens but especially of women, a campaigner for women’s health, a good friend, and a loving sister, aunt, wife and mother.

She worked closely with Gerry Adams for 17 years. She was efficient and effective. As part of Gerry Adams ‘Kitchen Cabinet’ she was centrally involved in the management of the evolving peace process and with the Irish and British governments.

When Martin McGuinness led the first Sinn Fein delegation into Parliament Buildings at Stormont to meet British government representatives in December 1994 Siobhán was there.

When Sinn Féin was locked out of the negotiations in June 1996 and a small delegation entered Castle Buildings to be told why – Siobhán was there.

When Sinn Féin held our first meeting with Tony Blair in October 1997 in Castle Buildings – Siobhán was there.

When the Sinn Féin delegation in 73 years went to Downing Street Siobhán was there also.

And when the Good Friday Agreement was being negotiated Siobhán was one of the stalwarts who made it happen.

Siobhán also managed Gerry Adams constituency office helping people with their issues.

In October 2002 Siobhán was diagnosed with breast cancer. For the next three and a half years she battled it every single day. Siobhán died on Tuesday 11 April 2006. She was aged 44.