Review: A Touching Story of Forbidden Love
Rating: 5 out of 5
Date: 04 13, 2012
The Blood Upon the Rose is a masterfully written historical romance that places the reader in Ireland during the aftermath of World War I. This touching story of forbidden love is tightly woven into stunning historical scenes that relive the birth of the Irish Republic Army and the devastation of war.Catherine O'Connell-Gort is a Protestant heiress and the only daughter of an army intelligence officer. A young woman ahead of her time, Catherine is well educated and sympathizes with the soldiers of the republic. While in medical school, she falls in love with Sean Brennan, a Sinn Fein Volunteer. Sean is targeted by the police after he is involved in an attempt on the Viceroy's life. Catherine's father hires war hero, Andrew Butler, to hunt down and kill Sinn Fein leader, Michael Collins. When Catherine thinks that her love for Sean is a lost cause, she begins to trust Andrew and falls into his trap.This is an engaging, action-packed historical portrayal of a fascinating place and time. I enjoyed this book so much, that I look forward to reading it a second time.