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The Irish Fortune #2
Beneath the Darkening Clouds
Ireland, 1845.
As pressure mounts, the future grows uncertain.
Quinton Williams and Alannah O’Neill have weathered suspicion, loss, and divided loyalties — but the crisis Ireland is about to face will dwarf everything that came before.
When the potato harvest fails, hunger spreads quickly across the countryside. Families are left without food, disease follows close behind, and the British response offers little relief. On their estate, desperation grows — and Quin and Alannah find themselves forced into roles they never expected, making decisions that carry lasting consequences for everyone who depends on them.
At the same time, unresolved matters from Quin and Alannah’s past resurface, drawing the attention of powerful enemies and placing new strain on a relationship already tested by circumstance.
Set against a land sliding into catastrophe, the second book of this sweeping historical fiction series continues the story of love, loyalty, and endurance in which nothing — and no one — remains untouched.
The Irish Fortune Series continues.
Ideal for readers who enjoy immersive, character-driven historical sagas shaped by political tension.
As pressure mounts, the future grows uncertain.
Quinton Williams and Alannah O’Neill have weathered suspicion, loss, and divided loyalties — but the crisis Ireland is about to face will dwarf everything that came before.
When the potato harvest fails, hunger spreads quickly across the countryside. Families are left without food, disease follows close behind, and the British response offers little relief. On their estate, desperation grows — and Quin and Alannah find themselves forced into roles they never expected, making decisions that carry lasting consequences for everyone who depends on them.
At the same time, unresolved matters from Quin and Alannah’s past resurface, drawing the attention of powerful enemies and placing new strain on a relationship already tested by circumstance.
Set against a land sliding into catastrophe, the second book of this sweeping historical fiction series continues the story of love, loyalty, and endurance in which nothing — and no one — remains untouched.
The Irish Fortune Series continues.
Ideal for readers who enjoy immersive, character-driven historical sagas shaped by political tension.
- GenresHistorical Fiction
409 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 22, 2022
About the author
Juliane Weber
4 books25 followersJuliane Weber is a scientist turned historical fiction writer, and author of the Irish Fortune Series. Her stories take readers on action-packed romantic adventures amid the captivating scenery and folklore of 19th century Ireland. Juliane spent most of her life in South Africa, but now lives with her husband and two sons in Hamelin, Germany, the town made famous by the story of the Pied Piper.
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Displaying 1 - 12 of 12 reviews
August 30, 2023
In 1845 Ireland, Quin and Alannah have dealt with loss and heartache and have overcome difficulties in order to be together, but then the potato harvest fails, leaving many peasants in a desperate situation. Ireland is already in political upheaval, and the response of the government is insufficient and harmful. Fighting against the odds, Quin and Alannah work to save the people on their estate, wishing they could help everyone. At the same time, enemies lurk nearby as Quin revisits his past. This is book two in the Irish Fortune Series. It can be read as a standalone, but reading book one, Under the Emerald Sky, is recommended.
This captivating novel is set during the devastating Irish potato famine. The plot is gripping and full of bravery, grit, intrigue and evil. The cast of characters, from the strong couple of Quin and Alannah to the diabolical man plotting against them, is powerful and compelling. The description and historical detail will transport the reader to Ireland during a devastating time in history. The points of view used are interesting. Some chapters are in first person from Alannah’s point of view and the rest are in third person. This occurs seamlessly and is not at all distracting. The strong bond between Quin and Alannah sets the stage for a thrilling novel. The meticulous research done by the author is evident, and the book is informative as well as entertaining. This intriguing, well-written novel is recommended to anyone interested in Irish history and family sagas.
I received a free copy of this book via The Historical Novel Society. My review is voluntary and the opinions expressed are my own.
This captivating novel is set during the devastating Irish potato famine. The plot is gripping and full of bravery, grit, intrigue and evil. The cast of characters, from the strong couple of Quin and Alannah to the diabolical man plotting against them, is powerful and compelling. The description and historical detail will transport the reader to Ireland during a devastating time in history. The points of view used are interesting. Some chapters are in first person from Alannah’s point of view and the rest are in third person. This occurs seamlessly and is not at all distracting. The strong bond between Quin and Alannah sets the stage for a thrilling novel. The meticulous research done by the author is evident, and the book is informative as well as entertaining. This intriguing, well-written novel is recommended to anyone interested in Irish history and family sagas.
I received a free copy of this book via The Historical Novel Society. My review is voluntary and the opinions expressed are my own.
February 19, 2024
What an Awesome Read!!!
I have spent the past two - three days devouring this 2 novels. It was really refreshing to have accurate information about The Irish Potato Famine. I am sure that these events brought some of my relatives to America. I thoroughly enjoyed the twists and turns of the story. It was definite!y very sad at times. It must have been a very despairing time. The resilience of the main characters as astounding given all the horror around them. I would definitely would give more than 5 stars for both these books.
I have spent the past two - three days devouring this 2 novels. It was really refreshing to have accurate information about The Irish Potato Famine. I am sure that these events brought some of my relatives to America. I thoroughly enjoyed the twists and turns of the story. It was definite!y very sad at times. It must have been a very despairing time. The resilience of the main characters as astounding given all the horror around them. I would definitely would give more than 5 stars for both these books.
June 9, 2023
Well researched and well written
I read this book and it's prequel. I loved both books. They are well researched, well written, and I sincerely hope the author continues this series and writes another book. I enjoyed these books immensely!!
I read this book and it's prequel. I loved both books. They are well researched, well written, and I sincerely hope the author continues this series and writes another book. I enjoyed these books immensely!!
December 21, 2023
Well written novel set on Potato Famine era of Ireland. Romance, drama, fun, tragedy, is all here plus invites on the British attitude toward Irish tenant farmers
Highly recommend if you live historical family dramas.
Highly recommend if you live historical family dramas.
September 5, 2025
I am loving this story, it's quite interesting and has some history in it. I already have the 3rd book and will start it right away since I've finished book 2. This is a really good story worth reading!
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March 31, 2026
Wonderful series
It's the best of both worlds historical fiction and romantic fiction. Characters you can get enjoy learning to love or hate... looking forward to reading the last in the series.
It's the best of both worlds historical fiction and romantic fiction. Characters you can get enjoy learning to love or hate... looking forward to reading the last in the series.
November 23, 2025
The Irish Fortune is the perfect name!
I literally could not put it down. I fell asleep reading and woke up to pick it right back up. I was so wrapped up into the story, I did nothing but read until it was done. I felt I could not let these characters go. The history of Ireland is so rich and tattered, and is captured here with all of the pain and glory its story deserves. I cannot wait to read more from this wonderful author. Thank you Ms. Weber for this book, for this journey.
I literally could not put it down. I fell asleep reading and woke up to pick it right back up. I was so wrapped up into the story, I did nothing but read until it was done. I felt I could not let these characters go. The history of Ireland is so rich and tattered, and is captured here with all of the pain and glory its story deserves. I cannot wait to read more from this wonderful author. Thank you Ms. Weber for this book, for this journey.
August 31, 2024
Outstanding!!!!!!
It is definitely a page turner. I held my breath so many times wondering what was coming next. This book has it all. Love, danger, resilience. I could go on and on
It is definitely a page turner. I held my breath so many times wondering what was coming next. This book has it all. Love, danger, resilience. I could go on and on
February 21, 2026
I loved this Series of books. im hoping the story continues.
March 19, 2023
Life is hard and the struggles are real. 2 There is joyful times and heartbreaking times. I smiled with Quin, Alanna and their workers and I cried with them.
February 28, 2025
Beneath the Darkening Clouds by Juliane Weber is the second book in The Irish Fortune series, delivering a gripping historical fiction set in 19th-century Ireland. The novel vividly portrays the devastating impact of the Great Famine in 1845, as Quin and Alannah struggle to protect the people on their estate amidst widespread suffering and government neglect.
Weber blends historical detail with emotional depth, weaving a tale of resilience, love, and political intrigue. As Quin confronts secrets from his past, the novel introduces an element of mystery and danger, adding layers to an already intense narrative. With richly drawn characters and a deeply immersive setting, this book offers a powerful look at a tragic yet pivotal period in Irish history.
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March 3, 2025I’m loving this series. It’s very so great to read about actual historical events happening to people who seem so real! I Highly recommend this book!
Displaying 1 - 12 of 12 reviews