Considered one of the best writers of historical fiction, Morgan Llywelyn has tackled in past novels the great sweeping vista of Irish history. In Lion of Ireland (a book the Washington Post called "A royal read..."), she recounted the saga of Brian Boru, the Great King who led the bickering chiefs of Ireland to unity under his reign. Now in this breathtaking sequel, we follow the adventures of Brian's son Donough, a brave and passionate man, torn between his hatred for his treacherous mother and his all-consuming forbidden love for the pagan girl Cera. Donough struggles to assert his birthright and to place upon his own broad shoulders the mantle of High King, worn so worthily by his father. A novel of dreams and bloodshed, passion and treachery, that brings 11th-century Ireland to vivid life.