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Heirs of Ireland #1
Flight of the Earls
It’s 1846 in Ireland. When her family’s small farm is struck by famine, Clare Hanley and her younger brother, Seamus, set out across the ocean to the Promised Land of America.
Five years prior, Clare’s older sister Margaret and her Uncle Tomas emigrated in similar fashion and were not to be heard from again. But Clare must face her fears as she lands in the coming-of-age city of New York. There she discovers love, adventure, tragedy, and a terrible secret which threatens to destroy her family and all she believes.
Flight of the Earls is the first book in a historical novel trilogy based on Irish immigration in the 1840s.
Five years prior, Clare’s older sister Margaret and her Uncle Tomas emigrated in similar fashion and were not to be heard from again. But Clare must face her fears as she lands in the coming-of-age city of New York. There she discovers love, adventure, tragedy, and a terrible secret which threatens to destroy her family and all she believes.
Flight of the Earls is the first book in a historical novel trilogy based on Irish immigration in the 1840s.
427 pages, Paperback
First published December 14, 2012
298 people are currently reading
1016 people want to read
About the author
Michael K. Reynolds
3 books779 followersMichael K. Reynolds is the author of a series of Irish historical novels being published by B&H Publishing Group. His debut Irish historical novel, Flight of the Earls, released January, 2013.
Heirs of Ireland Historical Saga
An epic and sweeping Irish 19th century historical series written with a cinematographic eye. It features gripping suspense, memorable characters and breathtaking settings.
Book Release Dates:
Book One: Flight of the Earls, January 2013
Book Two: In Golden Splendor, July 2013
Book Three: Songs of the Shenandoah, January 2014
Michael is a writer with more than two decades of experience in crafting fiction, non-fiction, journalism, copywriting and documentary production. He is represented by Janet Kobobel Grant of Books & Such Literary Agency.
Producer of Emmy Award Winning Documentaries
Michael is also the writer and producer of an Emmy and Telly award-winning series of documentaries titled, Crystal Darkness. These thirty minute anti-meth films have been heavily promoted and broadcast in cities and states throughout the United States and Mexico. They have been viewed collectedly by more than 10 million people and the message has reached more than 30 million to date.
His most recent documentary is titled, Bullying, and tackles a rising epidemic which is causing our children to drop out of school and is the cause of depression, suicide and campus violence.
The films were produced by Global Studio, a social marketing agency Michael founded in 1998. Since that time he has served hundreds of clients throughout the nation in developing powerful and innovative marketing campaigns using a variety of mediums including: print, film, television, radio and Internet. He has extensive experience in all levels of branding, web development, social media, public relations and advertising.
He also has wide experience as a speaker and on-air personality and has been interviewed on a variety of newspapers, radio stations and televisions networks throughout the nation.
Michael earned his B.A. in Creative Writing from the University of California, San Diego and lives in Reno with his wife and three children.
He is active in marketplace, marriage, small group and men's ministries as a leader and speaker. He has served as elder at his church and is an area leader for the Fellowship of Companies for Christ International, a member of Sparks Rotary and served as chairperson for the local advisory board of the Salvation Army.
Heirs of Ireland Historical Saga
An epic and sweeping Irish 19th century historical series written with a cinematographic eye. It features gripping suspense, memorable characters and breathtaking settings.
Book Release Dates:
Book One: Flight of the Earls, January 2013
Book Two: In Golden Splendor, July 2013
Book Three: Songs of the Shenandoah, January 2014
Michael is a writer with more than two decades of experience in crafting fiction, non-fiction, journalism, copywriting and documentary production. He is represented by Janet Kobobel Grant of Books & Such Literary Agency.
Producer of Emmy Award Winning Documentaries
Michael is also the writer and producer of an Emmy and Telly award-winning series of documentaries titled, Crystal Darkness. These thirty minute anti-meth films have been heavily promoted and broadcast in cities and states throughout the United States and Mexico. They have been viewed collectedly by more than 10 million people and the message has reached more than 30 million to date.
His most recent documentary is titled, Bullying, and tackles a rising epidemic which is causing our children to drop out of school and is the cause of depression, suicide and campus violence.
The films were produced by Global Studio, a social marketing agency Michael founded in 1998. Since that time he has served hundreds of clients throughout the nation in developing powerful and innovative marketing campaigns using a variety of mediums including: print, film, television, radio and Internet. He has extensive experience in all levels of branding, web development, social media, public relations and advertising.
He also has wide experience as a speaker and on-air personality and has been interviewed on a variety of newspapers, radio stations and televisions networks throughout the nation.
Michael earned his B.A. in Creative Writing from the University of California, San Diego and lives in Reno with his wife and three children.
He is active in marketplace, marriage, small group and men's ministries as a leader and speaker. He has served as elder at his church and is an area leader for the Fellowship of Companies for Christ International, a member of Sparks Rotary and served as chairperson for the local advisory board of the Salvation Army.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 94 reviews
April 10, 2021
I'm having a hard time wrapping my mind around the journey I was just on as I finished this book. Such rich and nuanced storytelling with the amazingly unbelievable yet true details from a century ago. I was drawn into the plight of the Hanley family with the proud father and children struggling at the onset of the Potato Famine. Clare's adventure with her brother and neighbor is beset with misfortune and yet there are those along the way who assist them and show the goodness of humanity. Their time in New York reminded me a bit of the movie Far and Away, and it was easy to envision the infamous Five Points area rampant with corruption and destitution. Clare's dedication to her family stays strong even through the ups and downs, the revelations that leave her reeling, and the winding path that brings her in contact with a wide variety of characters that each leave their mark on the reader. The book is both epic and sweeping, without losing the feeling of intimacy and connection with the main characters of Clare and Seamus. I began the book with curiosity but grew enthralled and felt immediately transported each time I picked it up. It's light on romance until the last quarter of the book but I thought it fit in well, although I wouldn't have minded more scenes with the relationship development. It wraps up nicely with the conclusion while still leaving a thread open for the continuing series. Highly recommend to fans of historical fiction!
Disclosure statement: A complimentary copy of this book was provided from a tour group, publisher, publicist, or author, including NetGalley, OR was borrowed from the library, including OverDrive, OR borrowed from Kindle Unlimited, OR purchased. A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are unbiased and my own.
Disclosure statement: A complimentary copy of this book was provided from a tour group, publisher, publicist, or author, including NetGalley, OR was borrowed from the library, including OverDrive, OR borrowed from Kindle Unlimited, OR purchased. A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are unbiased and my own.
January 2, 2013
Get ready to be swept away in this action-packed, emotional tale of one woman's journey to survive and help her family during the potato famine in Ireland.
Clare Hanley, her brother Seamus, and family friend Pierce must journey to America in order to find work and keep their Irish families from starving. The journey tests the three's morals, their loyalties, and their very lives. New York does not live up to its reputation, and the struggles they face tear them apart. But through it all, Clare draws strength from the memory of her siblings back in Ireland and ultimately finds love and a strong faith in God.
I loved this book so much that I devoured it in less than 24 hours! Michael K. Reynolds shows a rare gift of balancing historical details, emotional reactions, a complicated family history, and a fast-paced plot to create characters I couldn't stop rooting for. Clare, especially, as the protagonist melted my heart. I rooted for her every step of the way. My heart hurt at the many injustices she bore out of love and generosity.
The supporting characters displayed plenty of vices, but they also were multi-dimensional. My fingers are crossed that Seamus will get his own book!
Terrific read! I highly recommend it! I can't wait to read more by this talented author.
*I received an advanced reader copy of this book with no obligation to review it. All opinions are my own. It's amazing--get your hands on a copy!*
Clare Hanley, her brother Seamus, and family friend Pierce must journey to America in order to find work and keep their Irish families from starving. The journey tests the three's morals, their loyalties, and their very lives. New York does not live up to its reputation, and the struggles they face tear them apart. But through it all, Clare draws strength from the memory of her siblings back in Ireland and ultimately finds love and a strong faith in God.
I loved this book so much that I devoured it in less than 24 hours! Michael K. Reynolds shows a rare gift of balancing historical details, emotional reactions, a complicated family history, and a fast-paced plot to create characters I couldn't stop rooting for. Clare, especially, as the protagonist melted my heart. I rooted for her every step of the way. My heart hurt at the many injustices she bore out of love and generosity.
The supporting characters displayed plenty of vices, but they also were multi-dimensional. My fingers are crossed that Seamus will get his own book!
Terrific read! I highly recommend it! I can't wait to read more by this talented author.
*I received an advanced reader copy of this book with no obligation to review it. All opinions are my own. It's amazing--get your hands on a copy!*
October 8, 2013
It is the rare book that stuns me with its opening line. One sentence in, and I know this book would be a treat.
"Most days blended into the grayness of Liam Hanley's life, but this particular one haunted, a brooding prophetess tormenting the potato farmer with visions of his precious dream succumbing to the Irish downpour of misfortune, washing out his aspirations in familiar brown rivulets of defeat."
Those words from author Michael Reynolds set the tone for the rest of the story: one of hope, disappointment, desperation and survival. And the beauty of the opening line is no fluke. Flight of the Earls is filled with poetic prose that carries the reader along like a gently flowing river. Reynolds conveys scenes with such clarity I could see the farm in Ireland, the belly of the ship, the overwhelming poverty in New York.
As the blight that would become known as the Great Famine in Ireland reaches their small farm, Clare Hanley, her brother Seamus and neighbor Pierce are sent away to America to seek a better life for them and the families they leave behind. They soon learn that their prospects have been exaggerated and they join the ranks of the other Irish immigrants in the Five Points area of New York. Their story is one of survival, adventure, friendship and love.
I'm in awe of debut novels that are this good. I'll be eager to read the next two stories in the series. The sequel, In Golden Splendor, is available now. The third is yet to come.
If you're a fan of Irish history, I think you'll like this one.
"Most days blended into the grayness of Liam Hanley's life, but this particular one haunted, a brooding prophetess tormenting the potato farmer with visions of his precious dream succumbing to the Irish downpour of misfortune, washing out his aspirations in familiar brown rivulets of defeat."
Those words from author Michael Reynolds set the tone for the rest of the story: one of hope, disappointment, desperation and survival. And the beauty of the opening line is no fluke. Flight of the Earls is filled with poetic prose that carries the reader along like a gently flowing river. Reynolds conveys scenes with such clarity I could see the farm in Ireland, the belly of the ship, the overwhelming poverty in New York.
As the blight that would become known as the Great Famine in Ireland reaches their small farm, Clare Hanley, her brother Seamus and neighbor Pierce are sent away to America to seek a better life for them and the families they leave behind. They soon learn that their prospects have been exaggerated and they join the ranks of the other Irish immigrants in the Five Points area of New York. Their story is one of survival, adventure, friendship and love.
I'm in awe of debut novels that are this good. I'll be eager to read the next two stories in the series. The sequel, In Golden Splendor, is available now. The third is yet to come.
If you're a fan of Irish history, I think you'll like this one.
March 6, 2015
As this story opens, it is 1846 in Ireland, about a year into the Potato Famine. When it strikes her family's farm, Clare Hanley and her brother Seamus set out across the ocean to America, to find work which will enable them to send money back home. Five years prior to that, Clare's older sister Margaret and her Uncle Tomas also emigrated to America, and were never heard from again. But Clare must face her fears, and when she lands in New York City, she discovers adventure, and also a terrible secret which threatens to destroy her family.
This is the first book in The Heirs of Ireland trilogy. I really enjoyed this story; the imagery and the development of the characters; it is full of unexpected plot twists and is not your "typical" immigrant-comes-to-America story, but the author really added details which made it authentic and realistic.
It was very interesting to learn some of the history about why so many came from Ireland to the U.S. during that period of time, and what the Potato Famine had to do with that, and how the immigrants coped with starting new lives once they were here.
This is the first book in The Heirs of Ireland trilogy. I really enjoyed this story; the imagery and the development of the characters; it is full of unexpected plot twists and is not your "typical" immigrant-comes-to-America story, but the author really added details which made it authentic and realistic.
It was very interesting to learn some of the history about why so many came from Ireland to the U.S. during that period of time, and what the Potato Famine had to do with that, and how the immigrants coped with starting new lives once they were here.
March 29, 2013
I'm in Chapter 19. I don't know if I can finish this work. I honestly don't understand the 5-star ratings. Am I just too snooty and proud? This book reminds me of a low-budget, made-for-TV movie from about 1985. The language does not interest me. The plot is boring and told in a very serial manner. (One event followed by the next, followed by the next, followed by the next, ad infinitum.) There is no weaving of multiple plots with any kind of engaging complexity of story or real character development. There are no real cliff-hangers to draw me forward. There are grammatical errors. I'm no huge expert on historical facts, but I have suspicions of inaccuracies (details which really bother me). For example, in Chapter 18 there is a scene where people are standing around a blazing fire in a barrel for warmth on a cold winter night. A fire in a barrel? In the 1840s I think you'd be hard pressed to find a metal (steel) barrel that could contain a fire. I could be very wrong, but in my brief research, barrels (casks) were made of wood with metal (iron) bands in that era. This kind of stuff bugs me. I'm really disappointed. Maybe this would be better marketed to younger readers (i.e. grades 6 through 10).
July 3, 2013
Stunning debut novel created by a master story-teller. History came to life and included me in the telling. Authenticity of the story has obviously benefited from much research, captivating my attention throughout.
Every emotion was impacted as I read of the realities of life in 1840s Ireland and America. Characters that authentically embodied Reynolds' descriptions. Characters I cared about. Characters that roused passionate responses. The incredible hardships endured on land and at sea. The dashing of expectations time after time. The tenacity to continue.
Flight of the Earls is a book of substance.
A story that will live long in my memory...
Thank you, Michael, for sharing your gift with us.
I anticipate Book 2 of Heirs of Ireland with pleasure.
*With appreciation to B&H Books for providing me with an ecopy to read and review without obligation.
Every emotion was impacted as I read of the realities of life in 1840s Ireland and America. Characters that authentically embodied Reynolds' descriptions. Characters I cared about. Characters that roused passionate responses. The incredible hardships endured on land and at sea. The dashing of expectations time after time. The tenacity to continue.
Flight of the Earls is a book of substance.
A story that will live long in my memory...
Thank you, Michael, for sharing your gift with us.
I anticipate Book 2 of Heirs of Ireland with pleasure.
*With appreciation to B&H Books for providing me with an ecopy to read and review without obligation.
February 3, 2014
Disheartened, oppressed, and impoverished, Irish potato farmers sought deliverance from the plague of the potato famine by sending family members to the land of plenty. Illusions of wealth and the promise of plentiful jobs in America lured countless numbers of Irish immigrants to New York City. Unknown were the unpleasant conditions found on board the ships en route to America, and a false sense of security that was literally shattered upon arrival in the "land of plenty." Deceived and destitute, the revelation that they had exchanged one wretched situation for another was disheartening.
Michael K. Reynolds has created a compelling masterpiece of legendary historical fiction! Powerful and dynamic, the details in this novel reveal the depravities experienced by Irish immigrants upon arrival in a country that represented promise and hope. What lay ahead for the characters in Flight of the Earls was deception, the scarcity of productive jobs, lack of adequate housing, filth and squalor in the streets, and danger lurking in the darkness of the city.
I experienced the impoverished countryside and the rotting potato fields of Ireland, endured the gut wrenching travel by ship overseas to America, and the gutters of New York City through the voice of this powerful author. Flight of the Earls is an impressive full length novel to be experienced and appreciated for its richness in detail and the depth of character represented. Penned with incredible depth and rich detail, this novel is an experience in reality. I highly recommend this captivating novel, and recommend that you allow yourself to become immersed in the diversity highlighted in this creation. Descriptive and compelling, this novel is outstanding!
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for my honest review. All opinions expressed are my own, and no monetary compensation was received for this review.
Michael K. Reynolds has created a compelling masterpiece of legendary historical fiction! Powerful and dynamic, the details in this novel reveal the depravities experienced by Irish immigrants upon arrival in a country that represented promise and hope. What lay ahead for the characters in Flight of the Earls was deception, the scarcity of productive jobs, lack of adequate housing, filth and squalor in the streets, and danger lurking in the darkness of the city.
I experienced the impoverished countryside and the rotting potato fields of Ireland, endured the gut wrenching travel by ship overseas to America, and the gutters of New York City through the voice of this powerful author. Flight of the Earls is an impressive full length novel to be experienced and appreciated for its richness in detail and the depth of character represented. Penned with incredible depth and rich detail, this novel is an experience in reality. I highly recommend this captivating novel, and recommend that you allow yourself to become immersed in the diversity highlighted in this creation. Descriptive and compelling, this novel is outstanding!
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for my honest review. All opinions expressed are my own, and no monetary compensation was received for this review.
October 27, 2013
Flight of the Earls starts in 1846 when the potato famine hits in Ireland. Brother and sister, Seamus and Clare, leave their Irish homeland for a better life in the United States of America. Clare settles in New York City where she faces many obstacles, tragedy, secrets, and love. Is this new home where she finds happiness that she was looking for when she left her precious Ireland?
Michael K Reynolds does a fabulous job with this debut and first installment of the Song of the Shenandoah series. His vivid descriptions of how hard it was for the Irish during the famine and trying to make America their new home. Their story was emotional, intriguing, captivating, and stunning all in one. I couldn't ask for a better historical fiction that tells the story of my Irish ancestors.
I loved the main character, Clare. She was such a strong woman, who had to overcome so much. She's someone you could really admire! I can't wait to see what happens in the rest of this series.
I highly recommend this stunning novel! I promise you will NOT be disappointed. 5 stars.
Michael K Reynolds does a fabulous job with this debut and first installment of the Song of the Shenandoah series. His vivid descriptions of how hard it was for the Irish during the famine and trying to make America their new home. Their story was emotional, intriguing, captivating, and stunning all in one. I couldn't ask for a better historical fiction that tells the story of my Irish ancestors.
I loved the main character, Clare. She was such a strong woman, who had to overcome so much. She's someone you could really admire! I can't wait to see what happens in the rest of this series.
I highly recommend this stunning novel! I promise you will NOT be disappointed. 5 stars.
December 5, 2012
I was really excited to read this book, as the synopsis sounded so intriguing. It started off pretty good, slow paced but that was kind of understandable as there were a lot of details that needed to be given. It wasn't until about halfway into it that the pace changed, instead of being slow or even a nice pace, the story seemed to feel very rushed and jumbled.
The romance in the book was very low key, so if you're looking for a historical romance, this isn't it. And, since everything was so rushed, I felt left out of the story - things were just told, not lived out. From one scene to the next could be weeks apart, with very little conversation in those scenes.
I'm not sure whether I will read the next book in this series.
***I received a complimentary copy of this book to review. I was asked to give my honest opinion of the book - which I have done.***
The romance in the book was very low key, so if you're looking for a historical romance, this isn't it. And, since everything was so rushed, I felt left out of the story - things were just told, not lived out. From one scene to the next could be weeks apart, with very little conversation in those scenes.
I'm not sure whether I will read the next book in this series.
***I received a complimentary copy of this book to review. I was asked to give my honest opinion of the book - which I have done.***
February 1, 2013
From the Irish potato famine to the seedy streets of New York, Michael K. Reynolds takes the reader on a moving adventure. The writing sings, the story thrills, the characters are unapologetically realistic, and the message of hope and trust shines even in the grit. A novel not to be missed!
July 23, 2013
I loved this book! Books like this are a rare find in the Christian fiction field, at least from what I've seen. Excellent historical fiction, vivid descriptions, realistic and emotional.
Full review:
http://booksmusicandlife.blogspot.com...
Full review:
http://booksmusicandlife.blogspot.com...
February 11, 2025
I bought this book off the discount shelf at a used book store. I almost put it back because the cover didn't thrill me. But the description sounded like it was worth a try at least.
I am so glad I gave it a chance! I should know not to judge a book by its cover.
This story pulled me in from the beginning and didn't let go even after the last page was read! It has adventure, tragedy, romance, mystery ... I loved every moment of it!
I was excited to learn that there are two other books in this series and I can't wait to get my hands on them.
I am so glad I gave it a chance! I should know not to judge a book by its cover.
This story pulled me in from the beginning and didn't let go even after the last page was read! It has adventure, tragedy, romance, mystery ... I loved every moment of it!
I was excited to learn that there are two other books in this series and I can't wait to get my hands on them.
August 13, 2024
I absolutely loved this book. I really enjoy historical novels and this novel takes the reader through the potato famine in Ireland. The plight of the Irish emigrants as well as the American/Mexican War.
September 19, 2013
Flight of the Earls by Michael K. Reynolds was a wonderful adventure filled with historical fiction that kept my interest throughout the entire book. From the west coast of Ireland comes Clare Hanley and her brother Seamus, setting out on a voyage to America, leaving behind a poor family and a potato famine in 1846.
The journey by ship in these days was a frightening and unexpected experience, leaving many Irish to perish on the way. Clare withstands the journey and she and her brother and friend arrive to America, the place of their dreams.
Little did they realize that this was the real America. They experience poverty, hunger, and decadence, not unlike the world they left in Ireland.
This story starts to unravel a foreboding story of their family members who they thought had perished at sea.
Michael K Reynolds has given us an amazing account of a voyage from the Emerald Isle to the shores of America.
Prepare yourself, dear reader, for a fantastic trip! This 5 star novel will have you staying up late to read chapter after chapter.
I received this free book from BookFun for my honest review.
The journey by ship in these days was a frightening and unexpected experience, leaving many Irish to perish on the way. Clare withstands the journey and she and her brother and friend arrive to America, the place of their dreams.
Little did they realize that this was the real America. They experience poverty, hunger, and decadence, not unlike the world they left in Ireland.
This story starts to unravel a foreboding story of their family members who they thought had perished at sea.
Michael K Reynolds has given us an amazing account of a voyage from the Emerald Isle to the shores of America.
Prepare yourself, dear reader, for a fantastic trip! This 5 star novel will have you staying up late to read chapter after chapter.
I received this free book from BookFun for my honest review.
October 14, 2012
It’s Ireland in 1846. When her family’s small farm is struck by the blight of the Great Potato Famine, 24-year-old Clare Hanley heads out along with her younger brother Seamus on a harrowing journey across the ocean to the Promised Land of America. Once arriving in New York, Clare is both overwhelmed and enraptured by this coming-of-age city of intrigue, romance, the arts, squalor, wealth, uneven freedoms and exploding opportunities. Here she discovers love, adventure and a terrible secret which threatens to destroy her family and all she believes.
Dramatic Settings: Ireland, Transatlantic Voyage, Historic New York City, Mexico (Mexican American War)
Dramatic Settings: Ireland, Transatlantic Voyage, Historic New York City, Mexico (Mexican American War)
February 11, 2016
I had trouble with this book, to be honest. I read it for its Catholic aspects, but I just wasn't pulled in by the story or characters. The emotions seemed a little forced, and the main character, Clare, seemed inconsistent. It was a view on Irish immigration to the U.S. that I hadn't read before, so I enjoyed the fresh perspective. I haven't read much historical fiction since I was a kid, though. Maybe I've just lost my taste for it. It's worth a read even though it's not one of my favorites.
Read my full review at Austin Catholic New Media.
Read my full review at Austin Catholic New Media.
February 11, 2013
Flight of the Earls is one of those epic historical novels you can truly sink your teeth into. Every character shines, from Clare and Seamus to each of the people they meet along the way. The descriptions are so lush and vivid that at times you wonder if you actually smell peat burning in the stove and the sour fragrance of the blight hanging in the foggy air. This is a novel not to be missed.
July 2, 2015
This was good, but a little repetitive
In Flight of the Earls, it seemed like the author was flying from one story to the next, it was hard to figure out if it was weeks or months between Clara's and Seamus's stories. I think this would have flowed better if there was actual dated headings.
I gave it four stars because the plot was well written. It had some intense moments.
In Flight of the Earls, it seemed like the author was flying from one story to the next, it was hard to figure out if it was weeks or months between Clara's and Seamus's stories. I think this would have flowed better if there was actual dated headings.
I gave it four stars because the plot was well written. It had some intense moments.
August 25, 2013
Very disappointed. Superficial and shallow and juvenile telling of a time with such potential. 'Galway Bay' by Mary Kelly is a much, much better book of this period.
August 10, 2025
After a bumpy start due to a Libby App failure, my library came through in getting me an actual book copy.
Imagine if the movies "Far and Away" and the "Gangs of New York" had a love child - then Voila! this is your book.
Michael's style of writing is thoroughly enjoyable and easy to read. The chapters just zip by as you are transported through the story of the Hanley family. This is book #1 of the Heirs of Ireland series and all three are now out of print. They will be hard to source, but I would encourage you to do so, it is that good!
If you are familiar with Lesley Pearce,
Maeve Binchy, or Sheila O'Flannigan then you will recognize the same themes in this novel. At the very heart of it all is family. Small village life, unforeseen circumstances, and epic adventures into the unknown. Natural disasters and disease. Maintaining family bonds and creating new ones. Enduring inhumane conditions with grit and determination. Dreams and goals are challenged at every turn. At the same time you are discovering who you are and what you are made of. It is all wrapped up with laughter, tears, tragedies, and hope. A truly unforgettable gift.
I didn't want this one to end. I feel as if I'm saying goodbye to a cherished friend. Just know that should Michael present us with a new masterpiece, I will be first in line for a copy!
Imagine if the movies "Far and Away" and the "Gangs of New York" had a love child - then Voila! this is your book.
Michael's style of writing is thoroughly enjoyable and easy to read. The chapters just zip by as you are transported through the story of the Hanley family. This is book #1 of the Heirs of Ireland series and all three are now out of print. They will be hard to source, but I would encourage you to do so, it is that good!
If you are familiar with Lesley Pearce,
Maeve Binchy, or Sheila O'Flannigan then you will recognize the same themes in this novel. At the very heart of it all is family. Small village life, unforeseen circumstances, and epic adventures into the unknown. Natural disasters and disease. Maintaining family bonds and creating new ones. Enduring inhumane conditions with grit and determination. Dreams and goals are challenged at every turn. At the same time you are discovering who you are and what you are made of. It is all wrapped up with laughter, tears, tragedies, and hope. A truly unforgettable gift.
I didn't want this one to end. I feel as if I'm saying goodbye to a cherished friend. Just know that should Michael present us with a new masterpiece, I will be first in line for a copy!
February 17, 2024
This book is about a family, Clare Hanley, and their immigration story in the 1800s. Clare immigrated to the US in hopes to be able to earn enough money to help her family back in Ireland. Clare is helped by her fraudulent Uncle, where she receives honest work that allows her to send money back home. When something happens that forces her to run away from her uncle’s grasp, she meets a man that she eventually falls in love with. The man gives her a job as a news reporter, where she eventually finds out the true story of her uncle and how harmful he is. Eventually she goes back home to Ireland, to see whether her family survived the famine. Along the way, she realizes how important companionship is. I didn’t really like this book. It did not really make that much logical sense to me and the transition between Clare’s running away to meeting Andrew, as well as Seamus’ change and whatnot. I did appreciate reading about how Clare grew into her relationship with herself as well as how her relationship developed with Andrew, her husband.
I would not recommend this book. The writing was fairly simplistic and unappealing. The logic for me was not really there. There were a lot of inconsistencies in the storyline. I will not be reading the next book of the series.
I would not recommend this book. The writing was fairly simplistic and unappealing. The logic for me was not really there. There were a lot of inconsistencies in the storyline. I will not be reading the next book of the series.
July 19, 2018
I picked this up on a total whim at a Friends of the Library sale. And I'm so glad I did, because I enjoyed it so much!! I had definitely never read anything about the Irish, their migration to the US in particular, or the potato famine before. I'm not a big history buff, so I was very in the dark about how bleak and decrepit things got in that country. It really opened my eyes to events in history that I was totally ignorant about!
However, it was able to do it in a way that didn't feel anything like a history book. The personal stories of Clare, Seamus, Pierce were so awesome and I couldn't wait to get back to turning the pages and finding out where their journey would take them. I would've loved to find out more about the dealings that Seamus and Pierce had gotten themselves into though. I wanted more specifics on what they had been doing with Tomas and why it got them into so much trouble that they had to flee!
Overall, I loved the story and I will definitely be continuing on with the series.
However, it was able to do it in a way that didn't feel anything like a history book. The personal stories of Clare, Seamus, Pierce were so awesome and I couldn't wait to get back to turning the pages and finding out where their journey would take them. I would've loved to find out more about the dealings that Seamus and Pierce had gotten themselves into though. I wanted more specifics on what they had been doing with Tomas and why it got them into so much trouble that they had to flee!
Overall, I loved the story and I will definitely be continuing on with the series.
February 21, 2022
Surprisingly good novel for a debut author. The Flight of Earls is a saying used when all the aristocrats left Ireland and the common folks had to fend for themselves.
Clare's sister Margaret and her uncle left Ireland for the USA to try and help their impoverished families. After not hearing from them for 4 years and as a last ditched effort, her father sent Clare and her brother Seamus to the USA, as a way to help the family during the time of the potato famine.
I thought the start of the book was very good. It gave an idea of what life was like during that time and how folks depend on the outcome of their crops for their basic survival.
The middle not so much. It became too easy and didn't speak too much of the struggle immigrants had in trying to survive in America. It seems Clare and her brother didn't really struggle at all.
The end, predictable. It was all bundled up and tied with a bow hence the 4 stars. But all in all this was a good read. Now on to the next.
Clare's sister Margaret and her uncle left Ireland for the USA to try and help their impoverished families. After not hearing from them for 4 years and as a last ditched effort, her father sent Clare and her brother Seamus to the USA, as a way to help the family during the time of the potato famine.
I thought the start of the book was very good. It gave an idea of what life was like during that time and how folks depend on the outcome of their crops for their basic survival.
The middle not so much. It became too easy and didn't speak too much of the struggle immigrants had in trying to survive in America. It seems Clare and her brother didn't really struggle at all.
The end, predictable. It was all bundled up and tied with a bow hence the 4 stars. But all in all this was a good read. Now on to the next.
February 1, 2024
Loved the emotion, intrigue and imagery this novel contained. I was drawn by the descriptive words that painted a picture of Ireland the moment I started to read. I felt the emotions of a girl who is desperate to save her family when she is faced with so many harrowing circumstances along the journey. Greed causes so much heartache when people will do anything for money regardless of who they hurt. I will definitely read the next book in this series and would recommend this book to be included in your list of must reads.
June 17, 2019
I’m still confused about several parts of this book. Also, the writing was belabored on thoughts and menial things but then important plot points were rushed through so quickly that I had to go back and read it to see what I missed.
I understand nobody would want to read a realistic account of Irish immigrants because not many had a happy ending, but this story seemed too contrived and happy ending-ish.
I understand nobody would want to read a realistic account of Irish immigrants because not many had a happy ending, but this story seemed too contrived and happy ending-ish.
April 10, 2020
Setting: Ireland late mid-1800's during the Potato Famine. Clare's father sends her & one of her brothers to America to help the family with money they'll make in the great Land of Opportunity. After a torturous journey and a harsh reality check upon arriving to disappointment, she fights to make a new life. In doing so, she makes startling discoveries of family secrets.
May 23, 2023
In-depth historical novel detailing one family’s heartbreaking struggles during the Irish potato famine. Two of the older children and a friend are sent to America, hoping to be able to find work and send money home to sustain their families. The trip and resulting hardships once they get to America, are very dramatic.
June 13, 2024
Hopelessness and hope
The Irish potato famine left so many starving, dead or leaving for American dreaming of a good life only to find more poverty, starvation, and corruption. One young girl with strength and hope changes it all for her family. Reynolds writes descriptions that allow the reader to experience the full measure of tragedy and triumph and love.
The Irish potato famine left so many starving, dead or leaving for American dreaming of a good life only to find more poverty, starvation, and corruption. One young girl with strength and hope changes it all for her family. Reynolds writes descriptions that allow the reader to experience the full measure of tragedy and triumph and love.
November 10, 2016
It was incredibly sad. It was well written, but I didn't like it. Also, I couldn't figure out if it was supposed to be christian or not. I mean I don't think so, but all the 'Other Readers Enjoyed' were christian books.
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