Bodie and Brock Thoene have produced a novel of historical relevance and literary charm in Of Men and Angels. This sequel to Gold Medallion winner Only the River Runs Free, opens the door once again to enchanting Irish villages and folk of the 1840s in their dream of freedom from England's rule. The story follows the hopes of these Irish country dwellers through betrayal, brokenheartedness, awakening love, and despair. Supporting the Repeal Movement, a nonviolent approach embraced by Irish Catholics and Protestants alike, Joseph Connor Burke and his countrymen and -women prepare to stand firmly against England's power. Their goal is self-rule, and they want to attain it without bloodshed. The reader is further drawn into this world by a story of romance in the face of heartbreaking realities. No home's hearth fire burns more brightly than that of Kate Donovan. But will Joseph's work for the Repeal Movement cost him his chance to put the past to rights with her? Are all of his dreams ill-fated? Of Men and Angels is a story of a united Ireland, a people rising in hope that their dreams can be realized. Readers will find their hearts joining in the cause as well. --Ann Weinheimer