Moore researched 19th-century Ireland extensively to write this novel that convincingly portrays that tormented period in history. The characters are strong, the historical details are impeccable, and the prose is lilting. I especially enjoyed the subplot about Grace's brother Sean and the Irish revolutionaries. However, I did find Bram Donnelly's character to be a bit over-the-top. The subject of spousal abuse was an interesting one to include, but I wish the author had given Donnelly at least one or two redeeming qualities. (His character is like Satan himself, and Grace is God. A bit much there.) Lastly, this is not a literary novel about Ireland, but it is a good historical novel with lovely prose, so sit back and relax for an easy read that accurately portrays an important time in Irish history.