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The Heartfelt Series #1
The Hollow Heart
Marianne Coltrane is a feisty, award-winning journalist who is far from lucky in love. Taking herself off to the wilds of the west of Ireland to recuperate, she literally runs into Ryan O'Gorman, the most conceited, infuriating man in the world.
He's an actor who's just landed the biggest role in movie history and he loathes journalists. One thing they do have in common is they both think their chance of true love has passed them by...but fate has other ideas!
Sexy, moving and funny, this heart-warming duo and cast of colourful characters will stay with you, long after the last page leaves you smiling.
He's an actor who's just landed the biggest role in movie history and he loathes journalists. One thing they do have in common is they both think their chance of true love has passed them by...but fate has other ideas!
Sexy, moving and funny, this heart-warming duo and cast of colourful characters will stay with you, long after the last page leaves you smiling.
439 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 29, 2012
22 people are currently reading
298 people want to read
About the author
Adrienne Vaughan
11 books39 followersAdrienne Vaughan has been making up stories since she could speak. As soon as she could pick up a pen, she started writing them down. It was no surprise she wanted to be a journalist; ideally the editor of a glossy magazine, and in common with many, still holds the burning ambition to be a ‘Bond Girl’! Well, if it's good enough for Dame Judi
- one of her idols.
She still runs a small yet busy PR practice and writes poems, short stories and ideas for books, in her spare time. A member of the Romantic Novelists’ Association, the Society of Authors and the Society for Women Writers and Journalists, Adrienne lives in the heart of rural England with her husband, two cocker spaniels and a rescue cat called Agatha Christie. To date she has written eight novels and a collection of short stories and poetry. She is currently working on her next book. Her literary agent is Lisa Eveleigh of the Richford Becklow Literary Agency.
- one of her idols.
She still runs a small yet busy PR practice and writes poems, short stories and ideas for books, in her spare time. A member of the Romantic Novelists’ Association, the Society of Authors and the Society for Women Writers and Journalists, Adrienne lives in the heart of rural England with her husband, two cocker spaniels and a rescue cat called Agatha Christie. To date she has written eight novels and a collection of short stories and poetry. She is currently working on her next book. Her literary agent is Lisa Eveleigh of the Richford Becklow Literary Agency.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews
December 1, 2014
I thoroughly enjoyed this book,which has a lot more to it than the average romance novel. Spanning the worlds of investigative journalism, the glitz of Hollywood and the rough and rugged coastal islands of Ireland, it is a book you can really get yourself lost in. There is the romance in the novel, and also a lot of drama, heartache and trauma but you will be wiping a tear away one minute and smiling the next.
The characters are very well rounded, they grow as the book progresses and dialogue is believable. I particularly loved the way the author drew out the story, especially in the first half of the book, because for quite a while I was kept guessing about who was going to end up with who, as every time I thought things were going in one direction, the author put the spanner in the works - sometimes with a huge shock!
I would not be so bold as to compare this author to any other author, but I know I would certainly recommend this book to my mother, who is a big Maeve Binchy fan, and think that anyone who enjoys her books would enjoy this one as well.
The characters are very well rounded, they grow as the book progresses and dialogue is believable. I particularly loved the way the author drew out the story, especially in the first half of the book, because for quite a while I was kept guessing about who was going to end up with who, as every time I thought things were going in one direction, the author put the spanner in the works - sometimes with a huge shock!
I would not be so bold as to compare this author to any other author, but I know I would certainly recommend this book to my mother, who is a big Maeve Binchy fan, and think that anyone who enjoys her books would enjoy this one as well.
August 15, 2021
Several years ago I was at a writing event in Leicester and met the lovely Adrienne Vaughan. She gave me a beautiful paperback of the third part of this series and it has been waiting for me to get to it ever since. Now, because I’m not completely crazy I obviously had to start at the beginning of the series. So here we are with a series of reviews.
I’ll say right from the start that this is a super Irish-American series to disappear into, which is exactly what I’ve done this summer. It’s not a fast paced adventure story but we start with Marianne Coltrane’s life as an award-winning journalist whose love life is far from perfect because even when she gets it right, it goes wrong. No spoilers here.
She escapes to the remote Irish isle of Innishmahon to recover with her gorgeous dog, Monty. Here she starts to find her place in the world with the islanders that surround her and she also meets Ryan O’Gorman, Hollywood superstar actor, who’s also recovering from relationship issues. While neither are looking for anything romantic Innishmahon weaves it’s magic and they can’t help being drawn to each other.
The writing is excellent and if you’re looking for a terrific saga to lose yourself in then I can recommend this one.
I’ll say right from the start that this is a super Irish-American series to disappear into, which is exactly what I’ve done this summer. It’s not a fast paced adventure story but we start with Marianne Coltrane’s life as an award-winning journalist whose love life is far from perfect because even when she gets it right, it goes wrong. No spoilers here.
She escapes to the remote Irish isle of Innishmahon to recover with her gorgeous dog, Monty. Here she starts to find her place in the world with the islanders that surround her and she also meets Ryan O’Gorman, Hollywood superstar actor, who’s also recovering from relationship issues. While neither are looking for anything romantic Innishmahon weaves it’s magic and they can’t help being drawn to each other.
The writing is excellent and if you’re looking for a terrific saga to lose yourself in then I can recommend this one.
July 30, 2014
Marianne Coltrane is an award-winning journalist with tragedy in her past but a seemingly glittering future ahead. She meets dependable MP George at an awards ceremony and life seems settled and happy. However, some twists and turns throw Marianne’s life into turmoil and she eventually travels to a small Irish island hoping to find some peace. Here she meets some wonderful characters and makes some wonderful friends. She also falls for a gorgeous film star - also trying to find some peace in Innishmahon. But things never go smoothly for Marianne, and circumstances soon have her in turmoil again as she strives to make the right decisions to ensure a happy future.
Adrienne Vaughan paints a charming picture of the locals and the life of Innishmahon, and gives us a strong, feisty and likeable character in Marianne. I found myself cheering her on, and hoping that she would eventually find happiness. There were also some really interesting sub-plots that added to the joy and the tragedy of this well-written and thoroughly enjoyable novel.
I did find the islanders perhaps a little too good to be true at times - and I wondered about the speed at which Marianne and Oonagh became such close friends. The sub-plot concerning Oonagh was particularly well written and sympathetic - however, because I liked Oonagh so much, I would have liked this to have been developed further.
On the whole though, this is a great read, perfect for a relaxing Sunday afternoon or to take with you to the beach this summer. I recommend ‘The Hollow Heart’ and will definitely be reading the follow-up, ‘A Change of Heart.’
Adrienne Vaughan paints a charming picture of the locals and the life of Innishmahon, and gives us a strong, feisty and likeable character in Marianne. I found myself cheering her on, and hoping that she would eventually find happiness. There were also some really interesting sub-plots that added to the joy and the tragedy of this well-written and thoroughly enjoyable novel.
I did find the islanders perhaps a little too good to be true at times - and I wondered about the speed at which Marianne and Oonagh became such close friends. The sub-plot concerning Oonagh was particularly well written and sympathetic - however, because I liked Oonagh so much, I would have liked this to have been developed further.
On the whole though, this is a great read, perfect for a relaxing Sunday afternoon or to take with you to the beach this summer. I recommend ‘The Hollow Heart’ and will definitely be reading the follow-up, ‘A Change of Heart.’
May 10, 2014
The Hollow Heart is the first book in the Heartfelt series. It features reporter Marianne Coltrane and begins with her work at the Chesterford Chronicle where her latest scoop uncovers the illegal sale of babies from a refuge for single pregnant women. Once the story breaks Marianne finds herself being awarded Journalist of the Year for her stolen babies expose.
It's at the awards she meets dependable George Brownlow MP. With a twist, destiny plunges Marianne through a series of cruel disasters and it's not until she decides to take a break and escape to the Island of Innishmahon off of the Irish coast, that she begins to mend her emotional wounds. The people of the island are so welcoming; Padar and Oonagh Quinn who run the pub, Miss MacReady the postmistress and Father Gregory.
Marianne finds another person on the island is also there to find himself and escape from life. Ryan O'Gorman, TV star, once saved Marianne's life, now he's here saving more lives when a storm hits and families need rescuing. He doesn't want to be remembered as a hero he wants to be a writer, but life in the fast lane pulls him away from the island and Marianne.
Stormy times lay ahead for more than one character, and I'm looking forward to reading the second book in the series to see how obstacles are overcome, relationships smoothed and families are re-united. I really enjoyed Marianne's journey and easily fell in love with the people and the island of Innishmahon.
It's at the awards she meets dependable George Brownlow MP. With a twist, destiny plunges Marianne through a series of cruel disasters and it's not until she decides to take a break and escape to the Island of Innishmahon off of the Irish coast, that she begins to mend her emotional wounds. The people of the island are so welcoming; Padar and Oonagh Quinn who run the pub, Miss MacReady the postmistress and Father Gregory.
Marianne finds another person on the island is also there to find himself and escape from life. Ryan O'Gorman, TV star, once saved Marianne's life, now he's here saving more lives when a storm hits and families need rescuing. He doesn't want to be remembered as a hero he wants to be a writer, but life in the fast lane pulls him away from the island and Marianne.
Stormy times lay ahead for more than one character, and I'm looking forward to reading the second book in the series to see how obstacles are overcome, relationships smoothed and families are re-united. I really enjoyed Marianne's journey and easily fell in love with the people and the island of Innishmahon.
July 5, 2017
How gorgeous was this book? The story is just wonderful, moving from the cut-throat world of investigative journalism, through glamour, glitz and mayhem,and on to the perfectly-drawn setting of Innishmahon, where it continues as a very moving love story with an uncertain outcome and a gripping tale of the lives of a cast of characters I really took to my heart. At the story’s centre is Marianne – it took me a while to get totally on her side, but I grew to love her, and her day to day struggles against life’s challenges became compulsive reading.
The whole book really came to life for me when the story moved to Innishmahon – although I must say there was plenty to keep me gripped into the early hours in what came before, as well as some real shocks and surprises, and quite a few tears. But I just loved the island community and its vividly drawn characters: it’s an immense achievement to make a reader care so much about a diverse (even strange?) collection of people, every one beautifully rounded with a back story of their own, all coming together to support each other through a whole range of problems, whether small and personal or cataclysmic and life-threatening.
The central love story is totally engrossing as it ebbs and flows and sometimes founders – fraught with misunderstanding and breakdowns in communication, quite agonising at times, but totally beautiful when everything comes together. And should you think that a relationship between a journalist and reclusive movie star seems a tad unlikely and far-fetched, it most certainly isn’t – every moment is absolutely real, believable and touches your heart.
The island setting against which the story plays out is almost a character in its own right – I really wanted to be in there, helping to lay the stones, when the community came together to rebuild that vital bridge. And there are so many threads and themes in this book that I’m not even going to try to cover them – I loved the complications around Marianne’s parentage (and particularly enjoyed its resolution), and some of the personal stories of the islanders were so wonderfully handled. All of life is here – and I loved every moment.
Adrienne Vaughan writes just beautifully – perfect handling of relationships and emotions, dialogue so real you can hear it, a great touch with gentle humour, and she can really tell a superb story. And it hasn’t escaped my notice that The Hollow Heart is just part one of a trilogy – I still have A Change of Heart and Secrets of the Heart to look forward to. Now isn’t that simply wonderful?
The whole book really came to life for me when the story moved to Innishmahon – although I must say there was plenty to keep me gripped into the early hours in what came before, as well as some real shocks and surprises, and quite a few tears. But I just loved the island community and its vividly drawn characters: it’s an immense achievement to make a reader care so much about a diverse (even strange?) collection of people, every one beautifully rounded with a back story of their own, all coming together to support each other through a whole range of problems, whether small and personal or cataclysmic and life-threatening.
The central love story is totally engrossing as it ebbs and flows and sometimes founders – fraught with misunderstanding and breakdowns in communication, quite agonising at times, but totally beautiful when everything comes together. And should you think that a relationship between a journalist and reclusive movie star seems a tad unlikely and far-fetched, it most certainly isn’t – every moment is absolutely real, believable and touches your heart.
The island setting against which the story plays out is almost a character in its own right – I really wanted to be in there, helping to lay the stones, when the community came together to rebuild that vital bridge. And there are so many threads and themes in this book that I’m not even going to try to cover them – I loved the complications around Marianne’s parentage (and particularly enjoyed its resolution), and some of the personal stories of the islanders were so wonderfully handled. All of life is here – and I loved every moment.
Adrienne Vaughan writes just beautifully – perfect handling of relationships and emotions, dialogue so real you can hear it, a great touch with gentle humour, and she can really tell a superb story. And it hasn’t escaped my notice that The Hollow Heart is just part one of a trilogy – I still have A Change of Heart and Secrets of the Heart to look forward to. Now isn’t that simply wonderful?
December 2, 2018
The Hollow Heart is a tempestuous, erotic love story about a complicated couple. Marianne's previous relationships have resulted in disaster and tragedy and her own upbringing has made her the caring, campaigning journalist who has no truck with unethical, obtrusive probing into private lives. Thus this story is more than a simple romance. Other characters, such as Oonagh, a flamboyant, fun-loving landlady desperate to have a child, capture our heart and the Irish village of Innishmahon becomes as important to us as Marianne's happiness. Alongside many heartbreaking events we come to love Monty the cute Westie who is her constant companion and we laugh at the eccentric Miss MacReady with her extraordinary wardrobe. Film star Ryan probably doesn't deserve Marianne but his struggle to prove his love and commitment enrich the story.
This is a book of layers and substance. It deals with the important qualities of life but also takes us on a breathtaking, erotic romp. Adrienne Vaughan is an incomparable romantic author and I am lucky that I still haven't read all her books.
This is a book of layers and substance. It deals with the important qualities of life but also takes us on a breathtaking, erotic romp. Adrienne Vaughan is an incomparable romantic author and I am lucky that I still haven't read all her books.
April 19, 2017
A sure sign of a great read is when you're so happy there's a sequel! The Hollow Heart is Marianne Coltrane's story, set primarily in the West of Ireland which made it even more special for me. It's a story of multiple tales - challenges, love, betrayal, vulnerability, friendship, tragedy and ultimately hopefully triumph in the face of it all. Marianne's start in life is unknown which makes her journey a powerful one. Her journalistic background provides a welcome angle, told from both sides of journalism and this is excellently crafted by the author, Adrienne Vaughan. I loved Marianne's story. Very much looking forward to the sequel. Might squeeze some other reads in between but this story will stay with me! Wonderful!
February 6, 2017
4.5*
We first meet Marianne Coltrane, investigative journalist for the Chesterfield Chronicle, as she confronts Sister Mary May about the illegal sale and adoption of children from the women’s refuge she runs. Marianne’s work and resulting article earns her a nomination for Journalist of the Year.
At the National Media Awards Marianne eventually meets George Brownlow, the new Chesterfield MP, after an unsuccessful attempt at an interview. She and George hit it off and a relationship develops. But fate has other plans for Marianne. After she suffers a tragedy, a near disaster and to escape the pressures of work she takes a sabbatical from the newspaper. The beautiful island of Innishmahon, off the west coast of Ireland, begins to work it’s magic and puts Marianne on the road to emotional recovery.
Marianne crosses paths with actor Ryan O’Gorman, who she met briefly in England when he also saved her life. Journalists are not his favourite people, and he also needs recovery time, away from the spotlight of the media. Life on the island isn’t as quiet as Marianne hoped it would be after a major storm and the resulting damage, and when Ryan lands a huge movie contract almost out of the blue, circumstances conspire to disrupt her life once again.
I’m late to The Heartfelt series, but what a great start and a wonderful debut! I enjoyed the first part of the story but loved it when Marianne went to Innishmahon. Beautifully described and giving a real sense of place, it’s filled with a wonderful array of individual characters. The warmth of the well defined and realistic inhabitants, and the rugged beauty of the place shines through.
This isn’t a straightforward romance – there are several dramatic and significant threads running through the narrative. I found Oonagh’s storyline particularly touching and poignant. The characterisation and dialogue are very well done and Marianne is strong enough to carry the storyline. She’s been through so much but her resilience and spirit keep her going. A well-written and engaging story.
I chose to read and review The Hollow Heart based on a copy of the book supplied by the author/publisher.
We first meet Marianne Coltrane, investigative journalist for the Chesterfield Chronicle, as she confronts Sister Mary May about the illegal sale and adoption of children from the women’s refuge she runs. Marianne’s work and resulting article earns her a nomination for Journalist of the Year.
At the National Media Awards Marianne eventually meets George Brownlow, the new Chesterfield MP, after an unsuccessful attempt at an interview. She and George hit it off and a relationship develops. But fate has other plans for Marianne. After she suffers a tragedy, a near disaster and to escape the pressures of work she takes a sabbatical from the newspaper. The beautiful island of Innishmahon, off the west coast of Ireland, begins to work it’s magic and puts Marianne on the road to emotional recovery.
Marianne crosses paths with actor Ryan O’Gorman, who she met briefly in England when he also saved her life. Journalists are not his favourite people, and he also needs recovery time, away from the spotlight of the media. Life on the island isn’t as quiet as Marianne hoped it would be after a major storm and the resulting damage, and when Ryan lands a huge movie contract almost out of the blue, circumstances conspire to disrupt her life once again.
I’m late to The Heartfelt series, but what a great start and a wonderful debut! I enjoyed the first part of the story but loved it when Marianne went to Innishmahon. Beautifully described and giving a real sense of place, it’s filled with a wonderful array of individual characters. The warmth of the well defined and realistic inhabitants, and the rugged beauty of the place shines through.
This isn’t a straightforward romance – there are several dramatic and significant threads running through the narrative. I found Oonagh’s storyline particularly touching and poignant. The characterisation and dialogue are very well done and Marianne is strong enough to carry the storyline. She’s been through so much but her resilience and spirit keep her going. A well-written and engaging story.
I chose to read and review The Hollow Heart based on a copy of the book supplied by the author/publisher.
March 1, 2014
I really loved this novel. The story of Marianne Coltrane, a campaigning journalist, is gripping from the start. The author really puts her heroine through the mill and the story is action-packed, full of twists and turns, tugging at the emotions from the beginning to the end.
The plot is rich and eventful but the characters are what makes this novel stand out. Marianne, whose life is filled with drama from the day she is born, is a very worthy heroine. Courageous, strong and compassionate, she is a lovely character who makes the reader root for her from the start.
Such a great heroine deserves a very special hero, and Ryan O’Gorman is such a man. At first, I was wary of him, wondering if he was really worthy of our girl, but gradually he won me over when it became very obvious that his overwhelming love for Marianne was indeed genuine.
The couple are surrounded by an amazing assortment of secondary characters, endearing, annoying, amusing and eccentric. In turn they made me laugh, they made me cross, and they made me cry. Monty, the adorable Westie, is a major character and I fell in love with him from the moment he appeared.
The island itself is a major character, and the author is brilliant at describing this magical setting and igniting a desire to visit Ireland and take in the beautiful scenery.
This novel will tug at every heartstring, evoke every emotion and fill your thoughts when you have to put it aside to do other things (trust me, I know!) so that you can’t wait to get home and escape back to Innishmahon to find out what’s happening next – and believe me, there is always something happening. I won’t go into any more detail because I don’t want to spoil the story for others, but there is a moment of genuine shock and heartbreak quickly followed by a twist and a truly satisfying conclusion.
I am so pleased I bought this novel and am very much looking forward to reading the sequel. I can’t wait to find out what happens next!
The plot is rich and eventful but the characters are what makes this novel stand out. Marianne, whose life is filled with drama from the day she is born, is a very worthy heroine. Courageous, strong and compassionate, she is a lovely character who makes the reader root for her from the start.
Such a great heroine deserves a very special hero, and Ryan O’Gorman is such a man. At first, I was wary of him, wondering if he was really worthy of our girl, but gradually he won me over when it became very obvious that his overwhelming love for Marianne was indeed genuine.
The couple are surrounded by an amazing assortment of secondary characters, endearing, annoying, amusing and eccentric. In turn they made me laugh, they made me cross, and they made me cry. Monty, the adorable Westie, is a major character and I fell in love with him from the moment he appeared.
The island itself is a major character, and the author is brilliant at describing this magical setting and igniting a desire to visit Ireland and take in the beautiful scenery.
This novel will tug at every heartstring, evoke every emotion and fill your thoughts when you have to put it aside to do other things (trust me, I know!) so that you can’t wait to get home and escape back to Innishmahon to find out what’s happening next – and believe me, there is always something happening. I won’t go into any more detail because I don’t want to spoil the story for others, but there is a moment of genuine shock and heartbreak quickly followed by a twist and a truly satisfying conclusion.
I am so pleased I bought this novel and am very much looking forward to reading the sequel. I can’t wait to find out what happens next!
November 17, 2013
Marianne Coltrane is an award winning, investigative journalist. She uses her journalist skills to do good, to campaign for justice and to expose wrong doing wherever and whenever she can.
When Marianne goes through a series of tragic events in her personal life, in a short space of time, she decides to take a break from work and to go to recuperate and reflect to the west of Ireland to the quiet remote Island of Innishmahon.
But the peace and quiet she is looking for in Innishmahon is soon shattered when she has an unpleasant meeting with actor Ryan O’Gorman, having just landed the major role of his career; he too is looking for escape and a quiet break away from journalists. So Ryan is convinced Marianne has followed him to get a story.
Finding Ryan to be both ignorant and arrogant she does not want to have anything to do with him. But when he comes to her rescue and then circumstances keep on throwing this unlikely couple together could life have other plans for Marianne?
This book is not only a romantic love story but it is also full of adventure and packed with drama. Sometimes it can be a little too much when a lot of tragic events happen in one book, but I found the way this book is written it just leaves you wanting to read more, and it makes you really care about the leading character Marianne. It gives good background to the character too. I really liked the wonderful cast of characters of the Island of Innishmahon, which added to the interest of the story. There is never a dull moment in this book making it a lively and action packed read. I am looking forward to reading more books in this series.
When Marianne goes through a series of tragic events in her personal life, in a short space of time, she decides to take a break from work and to go to recuperate and reflect to the west of Ireland to the quiet remote Island of Innishmahon.
But the peace and quiet she is looking for in Innishmahon is soon shattered when she has an unpleasant meeting with actor Ryan O’Gorman, having just landed the major role of his career; he too is looking for escape and a quiet break away from journalists. So Ryan is convinced Marianne has followed him to get a story.
Finding Ryan to be both ignorant and arrogant she does not want to have anything to do with him. But when he comes to her rescue and then circumstances keep on throwing this unlikely couple together could life have other plans for Marianne?
This book is not only a romantic love story but it is also full of adventure and packed with drama. Sometimes it can be a little too much when a lot of tragic events happen in one book, but I found the way this book is written it just leaves you wanting to read more, and it makes you really care about the leading character Marianne. It gives good background to the character too. I really liked the wonderful cast of characters of the Island of Innishmahon, which added to the interest of the story. There is never a dull moment in this book making it a lively and action packed read. I am looking forward to reading more books in this series.
November 29, 2013
I loved this book. It was one of those that once you start, you just have to keep going, so when you buy it make sure you leave yourself a good clear weekend to just read!
This book is full of interesting, vibrant and unusual characters who you very quickly feel that you 'know'. What happens to them and what their future holds matters to you and The Hollow Heart is one of those books that carries on in your head long after the last page.
Most of the book takes place in Ireland in a little village and you get a real sense of what life is like there and how all the characters interact - there are also some vivid descriptions of the scenery which makes this book very 'visual'. A must, I would say, for anyone with Irish roots and family. I am sure they would identify with much within the book. I, however, am not of Irish descent but still enjoyed the village life depicted throughout the book.
'The Hollow Heart' book made me laugh, made me sad, surprised me, but above all left me wanting more. So, if you do nothing else this weekend then buy this book and settle down for a really good read!
Adrienne's next book 'A change of Heart' is already on my wishlist.
This book is full of interesting, vibrant and unusual characters who you very quickly feel that you 'know'. What happens to them and what their future holds matters to you and The Hollow Heart is one of those books that carries on in your head long after the last page.
Most of the book takes place in Ireland in a little village and you get a real sense of what life is like there and how all the characters interact - there are also some vivid descriptions of the scenery which makes this book very 'visual'. A must, I would say, for anyone with Irish roots and family. I am sure they would identify with much within the book. I, however, am not of Irish descent but still enjoyed the village life depicted throughout the book.
'The Hollow Heart' book made me laugh, made me sad, surprised me, but above all left me wanting more. So, if you do nothing else this weekend then buy this book and settle down for a really good read!
Adrienne's next book 'A change of Heart' is already on my wishlist.
February 17, 2018
Where better for Adrienne Vaughan to set a romance filled with drama than the remote, windswept isle of Innishmahon off the West Coast of Ireland, the childhood home of investigative journalist, Marianne Coltrane. The place Marianne retreats to, to rest and heal. Successful in her career life, matters of the heart are a different story for Marianne, until a chance encounter with Ryan O’Gorman forces her to question exactly what she wants from life – and him.
The village setting and colourful array of characters make this debut perfect for being the first in a series. I particularly liked Marianne’s friendship with Oonagh Quinn, who with her husband, Padar, runs the local bar. The sub-plot was poignant with Oonagh’s stoicism making the reader wish for a joyful ending for the local couple.
Another character who burrowed his way into my heart was Marianne’s loyal little dog, Monty, who is very much part of the story, comforting Marianne when she’s at her most lost and alone. Friendship, as well as romance, fills The Hollow Heart.
The village setting and colourful array of characters make this debut perfect for being the first in a series. I particularly liked Marianne’s friendship with Oonagh Quinn, who with her husband, Padar, runs the local bar. The sub-plot was poignant with Oonagh’s stoicism making the reader wish for a joyful ending for the local couple.
Another character who burrowed his way into my heart was Marianne’s loyal little dog, Monty, who is very much part of the story, comforting Marianne when she’s at her most lost and alone. Friendship, as well as romance, fills The Hollow Heart.
May 1, 2013
I hit lucky when I picked this book up for free on the kindle in March. Marianne is a journalist whose heart is broken by the two men she loved in the past. In a job that is demanding more than she can give and following an event that shook her up ,she moves to an island in the West of Ireland where she has always felt at home. There she meets colourful characters that warm her heart and soul and also has a chance meeting with Ryan. Ryan is an actor whose career has taken off, it is not the first time they have met and each time they do sparks fly . But can true love exist for either of them, why does so many things have to get in the way?
For a début novel this was simply astounding, fantastic descriptions of Ireland, the warmth and hospitality that is found there, the characters were believable and friendships were the kind you wished you had. A tale full of love, laughter and sadness and well worth paying the money for now that it is no longer free!
For a début novel this was simply astounding, fantastic descriptions of Ireland, the warmth and hospitality that is found there, the characters were believable and friendships were the kind you wished you had. A tale full of love, laughter and sadness and well worth paying the money for now that it is no longer free!
April 13, 2015
This was a rich full-bodied read from debut novelist, Adrienne Vaughan and I loved it. After losing her fiance tragically and being involved in a terrorist attack, Marianne Coltrane retreats to a small island off the West Coast of Ireland. There she becomes involved in the colourful lives of the residents and more than once, comes into conflict with Ryan O'Gorman, the charismatic actor. To find out how the island's problems and the love between Marianne and Ryan are resolved, you need to read the novel. The story continues in 'A Change of Heart' and I can't wait to read it.
January 25, 2013
Marianne Coltrane is the main character in The Hallow Heart. We join Marianne in a journey that brings her through the challenges of career change , relocation to an Irish Island , love, loss and then love and loss again. Along the way in this very lively novel the author has introduced many twists and turns to keep you guessing , laughing and shedding the occasional tear until the very last page.
January 11, 2017
A pleasant read with engaging characters
The story is told mainly from Marianne's pov and focuses on the many challenging events she has to face. She moves to a small island off the coast of Ireland in search of peace and recovery, and finds love, heartache, and more ups and downs as the plot thickens. It was a pleasant read with engaging characters and a beautifully described setting.
The story is told mainly from Marianne's pov and focuses on the many challenging events she has to face. She moves to a small island off the coast of Ireland in search of peace and recovery, and finds love, heartache, and more ups and downs as the plot thickens. It was a pleasant read with engaging characters and a beautifully described setting.
December 19, 2012
I got this book as a Kindle Freebie. It drew me in quickly. The characters to me were well drawn - people you could relate to. There were some twists and turns and a few suprises in what the characters did. I will definately look for the next book in the series to see how the characters are faring. Parts definately brought tears to my eyes!
May 10, 2013
A nice surprise .. I really liked this book. While slow at times, it had enough twists to be interesting. Set mainly in Ireland it contained romance, sadness, friendship, and an interesting group of characters. I look forward to reading the next book in the series.
May 16, 2013
This was actually a very good read.The writing style can make it difficult to get into it, as there is not much dialogue and the POV changes can be abrupt,but if you give it a chance you will be glad you did.
August 24, 2013
this book hits you over the head with over-the-top drama at first, but it eventually smooths out.
July 14, 2014
loved this book, it makes you cry and smile all at the same time. will definitely be purchasing the next installment
April 28, 2024
The author Adrienne Vaughan was so kind to send me this series , you’ll be seeing all three books reviewed here on my Blog.
The prologue was so tense and foreboding, it gave me a few ideas of what was to come especially because Marianne is an investigative journalist and she always find the truth.
Marianne is really good at her job and after uncovering the scandal of the Mother & Baby home she’s on a high but that all comes crashing down after a series of life changing events , she decides to move to a small island off the west coast of Ireland with her little dog for a fresh start.
I felt like I’d gone through every up and down with Marianne myself, I was so invested in her life and of course Monty’s
The whole story is magnificent, from the little island of Innishmahon and its quirky residents to Marianne and her heartbreaking life, I felt every emotion from beginning to end.
I could say so much more about this book and tell you my thoughts on all the events that happened but I don’t want to give any spoilers away but take it from me, you need to read this book.
The story will sweep you off your feet and stay with you long after you’ve read the last page.
Adrienne is a genius!.
The prologue was so tense and foreboding, it gave me a few ideas of what was to come especially because Marianne is an investigative journalist and she always find the truth.
Marianne is really good at her job and after uncovering the scandal of the Mother & Baby home she’s on a high but that all comes crashing down after a series of life changing events , she decides to move to a small island off the west coast of Ireland with her little dog for a fresh start.
I felt like I’d gone through every up and down with Marianne myself, I was so invested in her life and of course Monty’s
The whole story is magnificent, from the little island of Innishmahon and its quirky residents to Marianne and her heartbreaking life, I felt every emotion from beginning to end.
I could say so much more about this book and tell you my thoughts on all the events that happened but I don’t want to give any spoilers away but take it from me, you need to read this book.
The story will sweep you off your feet and stay with you long after you’ve read the last page.
Adrienne is a genius!.
December 16, 2021
This novel moves at a fast pace, which I really enjoyed. Add a captivating story and lots of fascinating settings, beautifully described, and you have a great read. Not to mention the characters! I love this - "The little conservatory was a jewel of an embelishment..." Drama, romance, action - what's not to love?
December 1, 2019
Good read....
I had this book for awhile and finally got the chance to read it, why did I wait so long? I usually don't read contemporary but this one is really good, a strong female lead journalist and a male actor. Looking forward to book two.
I had this book for awhile and finally got the chance to read it, why did I wait so long? I usually don't read contemporary but this one is really good, a strong female lead journalist and a male actor. Looking forward to book two.
December 17, 2025
Ireland is the perfect setting for this romantic and sometimes tempestuous love story. The heroine Marianne is impossible to dislike, so feisty and a wonderful friend. It's a story that keeps you hooked and wanting more. The good news is that it's book one in a trilogy!
September 7, 2024
Such a lovely read! The characters are vividly portrayed which makes it very easy to love (or hate!) them. I love the relationships between all the main and sub characters - you feel like you really know them all. I can’t wait to see what happens next in A Change of Heart…
May 8, 2013
I'm halfway through the book, and at this point I don't care if I finish it or not. So MUCH drama and disaster happens that it's become boring. The story is narration-heavy and dialogue-light, and told in such a way that I've developed no attachment to the main characters at all. Marianne is supposed to be much older than her friend Paul but the only way we know that is from a few snippets of conversation. Her thoughts and behavior is more like an impetuous 20-something girl.
I usually become so engrossed in books that I laugh and cry along with the characters, but I feel nothing for these characters. I can't even be sure I'll finish this one.
--So I finished it. The last fourth of the book is a lot better, but not enough to redeem the book overall. Still 2 stars.
I usually become so engrossed in books that I laugh and cry along with the characters, but I feel nothing for these characters. I can't even be sure I'll finish this one.
--So I finished it. The last fourth of the book is a lot better, but not enough to redeem the book overall. Still 2 stars.
February 12, 2016
This is a fantastic story!
Début novel by the lovely Adrienne Vaughan, it will keep you glued to the book until you've finished it.
All the ingredients of romance are there, but they are mixed in a most surprising and pleasantly unusual way.
Don't expect the usual unrequited love, because love is very much requited, here, but self-preservation and self-esteem come first. This is what I liked most about the book, and what I liked most in the leading character, who is a lovely woman with a huge heart, but won't annihilate, having learned to the hard way.
Masterfully set in a dream Irish landscape, is the perfect read for an afternoon by the fire.
I will definitely read the sequels, A Change of Heart and The Secrets of the Heart.
Début novel by the lovely Adrienne Vaughan, it will keep you glued to the book until you've finished it.
All the ingredients of romance are there, but they are mixed in a most surprising and pleasantly unusual way.
Don't expect the usual unrequited love, because love is very much requited, here, but self-preservation and self-esteem come first. This is what I liked most about the book, and what I liked most in the leading character, who is a lovely woman with a huge heart, but won't annihilate, having learned to the hard way.
Masterfully set in a dream Irish landscape, is the perfect read for an afternoon by the fire.
I will definitely read the sequels, A Change of Heart and The Secrets of the Heart.
Want to read
December 12, 2012Amazon Freebie 12/12/12
May 5, 2013
Very promising enjoyed the story but as the book progressed i was lost at times with the writing parts of the story needed developing further and the end was too abrupt even though there's a book 2.
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