Review: Engrossing Historical Fiction
Rating: 4 out of 5
Date: 03 19, 2013
This book is a wonderful example of historical fiction.  I felt that I learned so much more about the Irish Revolution and the motivations of both sides (Irish and British) through reading this book than I could reading a textbook.  Catherine, the fiery and unconventional heroine of the story, provided a great parallel for the Revolution itself.  Her relationship with Sean Brennan is hot and cold and quite realistic.  Readers can identify with both of these characters and the circumstances they must endure not only because of young love (which can be dramatic enough) but because it is set against the backdrop of the revolution and vastly different social classes.  The book offers an approachable view of both the wealthy, British-aligned hierarchy while still rooting for and sympathizing with the struggling but passionate and well-organized revolutionaries.  Readers have the benefit of a young, progressive woman's perspective, as well as an empowered young man's and that of an eccentric and lethal former soldier's.  The book was fast and evenly paced and kept my attention throughout.  I couldn't help but always root for the love story to endure in the midst of the turmoil (both of the time period and between characters).  A great read for any fan of historical fiction.*I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for my review*