This is the story of Brennan Mór Chief of the Brennan Clan - set in 17th century Ireland. Tragedy and suffering was commonplace and the old Gaelic order was being replaced by the New English System of Administration. One feudal form of landlord was being replaced by another.

Forced through hunger and privation the Chief and his followers trespassed on forbidden ground and were outlawed. Their only recourse was to turn to pillage and plunder. One of the chief's sons Conal raped the Squires daughter the beautiful Jane Bowyer and as a result a child was born. Hidden away in a convent in France the boy was brought up and educated in the manner befitting a gentleman, unaware of his illegitimate background. Now by chance the young lawyer met up with his fugitive father on a business trip to Paris, and the long held secret was revealed. Faced with difficult decision whether to acknowledge his true identity or go on with the masquerade he choose the latter.

The story tells of his woes and fears, his indecision and his courage. A dilemma that blighted his life and ended in tragedy on Lake Geneva.

The author, Tom Shelley, was born on a stud farm in Kilkenny Ireland. An artist, poet, and writer who has travelled extensively. He lived in London for many years and worked in the airline industry. Returned to his roots in Castlecomer in 1989.

Tom Shelley currently lives in an old georgian house where he has his own art gallery. A lover of opera and classical music. Has published two volumes of poetry and a social history.