Set in Ireland in 1835, this is the story of Caitriona
Brady, a widow of two years, who carries a torch for Michael Warner, the brother
of the local priest. Michael also wants her and soon, they acknowledge their
love. However, not all in the village agree.
Caitriona’s husband was the best fighter among the Bradys
who battle the Donnellans at regular intervals, typically after a religious
event. Caitriona and Michael have declared their neutrality but no one seems to
be listening.
The well-written story brings to light
Ireland’s past when “Faction Fighting” occurred and “Ribbonmen” held sway. (I
had to look up the term “Ribbonmen”. They were Irish Catholics who worked to
prevent landlords from evicting their tenants; the name came from the green
ribbon they wore as a badge.)
As if the villagers’ poverty was not
enough of a challenge, they took out their hatred on each other, making their
lives even more miserable, Caitriona and Michael’s lives among them. Even
Michael's brother, the priest, opposes their love.
I admired Caitriona, first for her
patience in enduring a loveless marriage and an unworthy mother in law, and
then in trying to hold onto love when everyone seemed bent on tearing her and
Michael apart. Michael is a noble hero but his failure to disclose his troubled
past did not help.
If you want a slice of Ireland’s
troubled past, this fast-paced tale is a good read. I recommend it.
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