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Reputations: Australian Historical Fiction

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"Embark on a Heartfelt Journey through Time and Sean's Odyssey in 19th-century Sydney.
In the 1840s, Sean Connaire's life took an unexpected turn when his family relocated from the serene landscapes of Ireland to the vibrant streets of Sydney. Leaving behind his closest friend, Dermot Spiers, and the captivating Veronica Flemming, the girl they both adored, Sean found solace in his burgeoning career as a carpenter. Fast forward three years, and a delightful surprise awaits him—Dermot and Vonnie have both reappeared in New South Wales, with Vonnie still unattached.
However, the joy of reunion takes an unexpected twist when Dermot makes a demand that challenges Sean's deepest convictions. In a moment of resolute defiance, Sean's refusal sets off a chain of events, plunging him into a tumult of emotions—drinking, grief, and the looming threat of ruin. Falsely accused of a crime he did not commit, Sean must bear the pain of watching Dermot capitalize on his misfortunes, becoming a formidable rival in the quest for Vonnie's affections.
Yet, amid the trials, a ray of hope emerges in the form of Albert Mangan, a charismatic British lawyer and kindred spirit. Stepping into the fray, Albert delves into the intricate tapestry of Sean's past, unveiling the complexities that brought him to the brink of disaster. As the truth unfurls, the lingering question Has Sean forfeited his last chance to claim the love of the woman who holds a special place in his heart?
Step into the vibrant world of 19th-century Sydney and embark on a journey of love, loss, and redemption like no other. Let this enchanting tale sweep you away as it weaves together the threads of friendship, resilience, and the enduring power of love.
Experience the highs and lows of life in a bustling town filled with secrets and surprises at every turn. Walk alongside captivating characters as they navigate the challenges of their time, finding strength in each other and in the bonds of friendship that endure against all odds.
Don't miss your chance to be part of this captivating journey. Order your copy today and prepare to be transported to a world where love conquers all and redemption awaits those who dare to seek it. Join us as we explore the depths of the human heart against the backdrop of 19th-century Sydney.

343 pages, Kindle Edition

Published June 27, 2023

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10 people want to read

About the author

Michael Beashel

16 books16 followers
Michael Beashel is an International Best Selling Australian Historical Fiction Writer
Sydney born to Irish forebears who immigrated to New South Wales in the 1860s and settled in Millers Point. He is married and lives in Sydney’s inner west having spent his youth in Bondi. Beashel was head of Asset Development for a global accommodation services company registered on the NY Stock Exchange and has struck a blow at senior levels in some of Australia's iconic construction companies including a ten-year stint at Lend Lease. In Sydney, Government restorations to Customs House and the Town Hall accompany commercial buildings completed in the private sector. In South East Asia, Beashel managed a construction division building apartments and hotels in Bangkok and Ho Chi Minh City.

This industry, its characters, clients, trades people, designers and bureaucrats, have provided a rich material for his writing. He has an eye for the emergence of Sydney’s built form, from the early days of the colony to the present, and a love of construction. He says about his writing, “it’s a passion and I revel in using the building industry as a tapestry to weave a great tale seasoned with historic facts and with memorable characters.”
Beashel’s seven published novels and two novellas in The Australian Sandstone Series showcase 19 century Sydney from the ground up and have garnered critical review. Unbound Justice the first novel has won No 1 In Amazon Rankings in three countries. A contributor to The Last Post and Afloat Magazines and he has appeared on ABC National Radio celebrating his novels. He holds a Bachelor of Applied Science (Building) from Sydney’s UTS and is a member of Writing NSW.

Beashel is currently working on his next projects, more novels in The Australian Sandstone Series set in the 19 century.

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5 stars
85 (50%)
4 stars
57 (34%)
3 stars
19 (11%)
2 stars
2 (1%)
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4 (2%)
Displaying 1 - 6 of 6 reviews
1,688 reviews28 followers
June 26, 2023
Sean Connaire's family move from Ireland to Sydney and he left behind his best friend Demot Spiers and the girl they both loved Veronica Flemming. Sean does well in his career as a carpenter . Suddenly Veronica and Demot reappear in New South Wales and Demot demands Sean to follow in his ambition . Sean doesn’t give in and this leads to tragedy. He is accused of a crime he didn’t commit and having Demot as a devious rival in his fight for Veronica . With the help of a colourful lawyer Abbert Mangan he is able to get the help he needs. A very exciting and chilling read. It tells you about how a good friendship can turn evil when greed and ambition plays a role. I am on the ARC team and leave a honest review. I recommend this book to other readers.
Profile Image for Yvonne Gilbert.
192 reviews9 followers
June 27, 2023
This is a fantastic book. thrilling, facts and fiction blended well with family, friends, work ethics, Deceit, love. I highly recommend this book. Michael Beashel has done it again.
Profile Image for Ida Umphers.
5,560 reviews48 followers
July 4, 2023
As always, I loved Beashel's glimpses into Australian history, but what captured me here were the twists and turns in the story of Sean, Dermot and Vonnie. There's love, both genuine and twisted and all sorts of manipulations designed to ruin lives. Couldn't read fast enough to learn what was really behind all of that and who would come out ahead, if anyone, in the end. Very interested to see where the author goes now that this series is concluded.
4 reviews
January 21, 2025
This is the 7th book I have read of Colonial Australia Historical fiction. It was aa bit slow in getting the characters going, but soon got into the flow and the detail of life for another part of Colonial life in Sydney. It was a real page turner and difficult to put down. Gave continued impression of life in Sydney through the lives of several interwoven families. An excellent continuation of this series and worthy of its 5 STARS.
Profile Image for Pete Loveday.
160 reviews5 followers
July 2, 2023
I had the most fascinating day, reading this wonderful book. The characters were all engaging and the story line excellent. After reading all of Michaels books I am now waiting for his next masterpiece. Highly recommended!
12.7k reviews189 followers
July 4, 2023
An amazing story of Sean and what happened after he left his home town. Years later his best friend and the girl he loved show up. Unfortunately because of circumstances things don’t go well for him. We’re taken through his journey and wonder if there’s romance for him before it’s too late. Well written, enjoyable read.
Displaying 1 - 6 of 6 reviews

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