Book Synopsis: Unshackled is about the early settlement of Australia; in 1854 Sydney, John Leary has it made. He runs a growing construction company, has a beautiful wife, and his baby is about to be born. In the gold rush-mad city, a suspicious construction fatality occurs, threatening John's whole future. Underhanded and ruthless, he keeps his company safe from the accident's fallout, but spars with his mother-in-law, a constant thorn in his side. John's arrogance tests his relationships with both family and friends. He meets an old flame and passions are stirred, but then he runs into more trouble in business and at home, with no one to blame but himself. John finally realizes he took for granted the most important things in life. "This is a great Australian saga which brilliantly describes the early birth of Sydney ... its people and its bricks and mortar." - John Morrow's Pick of the Week. Author Bio: Author Michael Beashel is a Sydney native who is fascinated with stories about Old Sydney. He says about his writing: "It's a passion and I love the challenge of using the right words to tell a great tale." Unshackled is the second book of a trilogy. His Irish forbears immigrated to New South Wales in the 1860s. Beashel is an internationally known large construction project manager. He has worked with some of Australia's iconic construction companies and in the booming Asian construction market. Beashel is married with adult children. He finds his excitement in the construction industry, rather than through his family's sailing fame.