Riona (The Fires of Gleannmara Series #2)

Riona, a gentlewoman of faith, discovers that her plan to help the disadvantaged includes not only the plague orphans in her charge, but the arrogant, handsome adventurer who feels honor-bound to save her and her lands by marrying her -- with or without her consent. Lord Kieran of Gleannmara depends on nothing and no one save his wit and skill with steel, but soon a deadly twist of fate forces him to acknowledge his need not only for the lady Riona and her worrisome entourage, but for her Lord as well.

Romance and suspense share the spotlight as award-winning author Linda Windsor continues her satisfying saga of the Christian Celts in Riona. Riona plans to make a life for herself in the church, but finds her dream shattered when she saves three orphans from slavery. To adopt the children and offer them a legitimate family, Riona must marry the handsome warrior Kieran, who is unjustly accused of murder. Although Riona is the sequel to Maire, it can be easily read as a standalone title. The glossary of Celtic terminology provides a helpful reference, as Windsor peppers her writing with unusual terms such as brat (outer cloak or wrap), porringer (a low bowl), and slige (a main road). Historical aficionados who like a spiritual bent to their stories and readers with a penchant for a good romantic yarn will enjoy this tale of primitive Ireland. --Cindy Crosby