4⭐️ for good execution and detailing.
1⭐️ for extremely poor subject matter
Although this story is conveyed well, it left me feeling upset and uncomfortable. Casting shadow and dirt on religion, faith and church didn’t sit well nor did I like or connect with either character. It’s a well thought out story of angry, broken Father Thomas Manwarring, bent on revenge and destruction of a woman (Mary Quinn Astrid), who intentionally spread numerous lies, forcing him into banishment him from NY to Rome….because he refused her perverse sexual advances when he was a teen. But he’s back now, using his status as a Priest to set his long awaited plan of revenge into action; to take down the evil woman who kidnapped his sister, blackmailed his family, murdered two upstanding citizens of their social circle and ruined him…stealing 7 years of his life. He intends to leave the evil and corrupt Mary Quinn Astrid destroyed, destitute and alone. The daughter, Rose Astrid, is a weak, subservient pawn without any power, backbone or control that the fallen Father manipulates and uses to see his vicious plan through, destroying her as well in the process. Rose has never been allowed to think for herself, and when she finally stands up for herself, the story’s over. The whole thing was uncomfortable and makes me question reading either of these two authors (Zoe Blake/Alta Hensley), ever again.