About the diversity and conflict of life in contemporary Ireland. In the Gods That Were (Kevin the Murderous Saint), author Kevin Dolan has weaved an intricate and intriguing re-working of the ancient Irish legend of St. Kevin, set against the backdrop of contemporary Irish society. Dolan has recast the myth to portray the ever-prevalent notions of guilt, repentance, and forgiveness in Church history as they apply to the plight of modern Ireland.