The Promise

by Mary Ryan

A student in Florence becomes friends with a rootless American girl. In the intense embrace of youth, they help each other face the horror of their past. Before parting, they promise to meet again in Florence on his 50th birthday.

Hardcover

First published October 1, 1998

Reviews

[Anne · Rating 4 out of 5]

Book is an enjoyable read although most parts are predictable. Irish Colm meets American Robin while traveling in Italy while he is a student. They make a young promise to meet again at his 50th birthday. After going through a divorce and nearing his 50th, he decides to follow through on the promise they made decades ago. However, there is a plot twist I didn't see coming and some of Colm's insights as he ages and becomes more honest and self-aware are refreshing. I won't say more than that for fear of giving the book away but I could easily see this being made into a movie (if it wasn't already).

[Cathy Nealon · Rating 4 out of 5]

It is a very different story that will stick with me.

[Davis Aujourd'hui · Rating 4 out of 5]

If you enjoy a sentimental romance such as I do, you will enjoy this tale. The promise that is made between the two lovers will keep you in suspense until the end. In between, you will travel from Ireland to the mystical city of Venice. The imagery painted by the author will delight you. You will feel as if you are there.

To me, any love story is a spiritual story. I especially appreciated that since I am the author of a spiritually-themed novel. This author swept me off my feet and transported my soul.

Davis Aujourd'hui, author of The Misadventures of Sister Mary Olga Fortitude

[Janice · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is the first book I read from this bestselling Irish author. I had good reviews and was a nice read. I had a difficult time liking the main character, Colm. He was totally clueless about women. Perhaps in 1968, nice Irish boys are totally clueless but reading it now...

[Matt Micucci · Rating 2 out of 5]

As all Irish books, the Irish main character fails to live up to realism and the reader's expectation of a charismatic central character. Not much is interesting, even its less than rewarding finale. I guess it's really for middle aged women this one is.

[Sharon Reeves · Rating 2 out of 5]

The book was ok, but not one of my favourite Mary Ryan Books. The author easily conveyed the characters turmoil and demons. Would not be one I would recommend, as there are better books out there.