"An Irish Set Historical"

David Burke has a past and it's been a rough one. He used to be known in Ireland as Rory O'Brian but when he left he changed his name and began putting his life back together. But it's time to return to his homeland and face his troubled past and hopefully find the peace his soul so desperately needs. What he finds is not what he expects since a famine has left deep scars in Ballycashel. Will Ireland be the balm David needs or will it be too much for him.

Siobhan Desmond needs to find work in order to take care of her family. The famine hit them hard and when she learns a new master has returned to Ballycashel she seeks employment and instantly feels a connection to the newcomer. David seems angry yet she can see deeper into his heart and knows what he needs is a tenuous connection to something or perhaps someone. Perhaps the healing power of love will tie these two together.

Ms. Owens has penned a very romantic story demonstrating the power of love and how it can heal deep wounds not only for our protagonists, but for the village they call home as well. Ms. Owen was not afraid to add history to her writing therefore making this a well rounded read. This is one author I plan on keeping my eye on.

Reviewed by Kristi Ahlers
Posted February 20, 2007

Summary

A Gambler With a Thirst for Revenge After a lifetime in exile, stakes are high for one-time gambler Rory O'Brien as he returns to the village of Ballycashel. Has he come back to destroy the village that haunts his past, or to atone for the sins of his father? When drawn into the lives and loves of his newly-acquired tenants, his thirst for vengeance is quenched by an unexpected yearning for peace-and love. Can Rory overcome the ghosts of his past, or will old enemies destroy the new life he's come to love? A Valiant Survivor of Famine and Tyranny Siobhán Desmond will do anything to keep the tattered remains of her family alive, even if it means working for the new landlord-a darkly handsome stranger with secrets in his eyes and pain in his smile. As she watches her village return to life and begin to thrive under Rory's care, she comes to understand his true nature and soon finds herself falling under his dangerously sensual spell. As danger ignites all around them, Rory and Siobhán fight to right the wrongs of the past-and protect their newfound love. In Sunshine or In Shadow ~~~ If you adore the stormy heroes of 'Wuthering Heights' and 'Jane Eyre' (and who doesn't?) you'll be entranced by Cynthia Owens' passionate story of Ireland after the Great Famine, and David Burke-a man from America with a hidden past and a secret name. Only one woman, the fiery, luscious Siobhán, can unlock the bonds that imprison him. Highly recommended for those who love classic romance