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'A tale of Unyielding Retribution: John Leary’s epic journey in 19th-century Sydney.
In the year 1850 amidst the lush green fields of Ireland, John Leary embarked on a life altering voyage, driven by boundless ambition. His destination: the shores of Australia, a land of new beginnings and untold opportunities. But beneath his dreams of prosperity, simmered a seething desire for revenge.
John’s heart burned with fury, fuelled by a violent injustice inflicted upon his beloved sister at the hands of her merciless landlord, William Baxterhouse. Fate, however had other plans Baxterhouse managed to slip away on a different vessel, harbouring even greater ambitions in the promising New South Wales.
Sydney, a city pulsating with the fervour of the gold rush and a relentless commitment to crafting the most splendid structures the colony had ever seen, became the stage for their fateful encounter. John’s determination to establish his construction empire gained new intensity, driven not only by his professional aspirations but also by his deep affection for the enchanting Clarissa McGuire, whose family viewed him with disdain. As John’s pursuit of success intertwined with Baxterhouse’s relentless ascent to wealth and influence, it appeared that his adversary was beyond reach but love and determination spurred John forward. Alongside him stood another young woman Beth O’Hare who cherished a profound love for him. John was faced with a heart wrenching decision that culminated in a climatic showdown with Baxterhouse.
Through grit, talent and seizing opportunities, John carved out his own construction empire, ceaselessly striving to be the biggest and the best. The construction industry itself serves as a metaphor for the city he chose – a place of contrasts, with both squalor and grandeur corruption the noble aspirations.
This gripping narrative marks the inauguration of the Australian Sandstone Series offering an awe-inspiring perspective on 19th-century Sydney. The Australian Sandstone Series unfolds as an enthralling historical fiction drama featuring a vibrant cast of characters. Each book stands alone as an independent tale yet together they weave a captivating family saga. Within these pages romance, vengeance, and a tragedy all converge to shape the destiny of the Leary family.' (Publication summary)
