The Past is the fourth book in the Bluegrass Empires series and takes us back to where it all began, in Ireland.
About The Past
Fiona is the oldest child of her parents. Her father is very controlling and her mother does what she is told to do. Her father and uncle own and run the breeding and training programs at the Conlan estate. Being female, she was not allowed to train or race the horses. She was expected to marry a man her father chose for her in order to benefit the family and his wealth.
Tommy is a rebel. He likes to party. He takes for granted what he has with his family because he does not know any better. He shows up to work when he wants and does not work as hard as he could. His father has had enough and arranges to send him to Ireland to work on the Conlan estate with his friend, Rory, who he went to college with.
When Tommy and Fiona meet at the training area, he is immediately smitten, but he knows she is off limits. He is not ready for a relationship and she is not ready for just one night. Plus she is only 17 and he is 19. Can we say possible legal issues? Well maybe, maybe not. We are in Ireland so the laws may be different.
Over time, these two become friends. She confides in him and he actually listens to her. As things get tense with her father, she turns to Tommy more and more. The one good thing she has going for her is that her uncle Rory is on her side and supports her spending time with Tommy.
Rory also supports her riding and training. So much so that he books her in a steeplechase run. She was so nervous and yet so excited to be competing, especially against all of the boys. She did well, but sadly there was an accident near the end that caused Rory to have to leave her and Tommy to return home together, without him.
When tragedy strikes the estate, many assume that Fiona will due her duty to her family. But surprisingly, she becomes the one with all of the power. But what she gives up to obtain her freedom is a reminder that sometimes old school ways are not always the best.
Impressions
I laughed and I cried through this book as I listened to Tommy and Fiona recall their love story to their granddaughter. Their connection is stronger than ever, but reliving the story brought up emotions and events that will make you gasp and cry.
The old school ways that Fiona’s father tried to control her and amass more wealth was appalling. I know that was the way of life back then, but not everyone fits into that mold. She definitely did not. And I loved watching her fight it with everything she had. She has a backbone and is not afraid to speak her mind when necessary.
Watching her bulldoze her father at the end and get what she wanted made me so happy. Even though it cost her a relationship with her family, she got Tommy and her own family. She is respected in her community and in her family. She is a Queen.
Narration
Sean Masters is divine as Tommy. His voice is so smooth and sensual as he woos Fiona, but strong when confronting her father. I am really enjoying listening to his voice so much. He is a master at his craft. Kit Swann playing Fiona was a hoot. Listening to the Irish lilt was a charm. She portrays the strength Fiona has, but also the vulnerabilities when dealing with her parents and their controlling ways.
Availability
The Past is currently available in eBook and Paperback format on Amazon.
Series Listing
- The Feud: A Blackburn Novel (Bluegrass Empires Book 1)
- The Forbidden: A Mardraggon Novel (Bluegrass Empires Book 2)
- The Tryst: A Blackburn Novel (Bluegrass Empires Book 3)
- The Past: A Blackburn Novel (Bluegrass Empires Book 4)
About Sawyer Bennett
New York Times, USA Today, and Wall Street Journal Bestselling author Sawyer Bennett uses real life experience to create relatable stories that appeal to a wide array of readers. From contemporary romance, fantasy romance, and both women’s and general fiction, Sawyer writes something for just about everyone.
A former trial lawyer from North Carolina, when she is not bringing fiction to life, Sawyer is a chauffeur, stylist, chef, maid, and personal assistant to her very adorable daughter, as well as full-time servant to her wonderfully naughty dogs.
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