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Secrets of an Irish House
Pushing her key into the gate lock, Katie looks up nervously at the grand tree-lined entrance sweeping up to Kilcashel House. This was not her home by choice, but if she was ever to move on from her past and uncover the truth about her beloved Harry, she would make it her home…
Perched on the edge of the roaring Irish Sea, Kilcashel House was somewhere New Yorker Katie never imagined she would live. But when her partner Harry dies suddenly with a diamond engagement ring in his top pocket, Katie is shocked to learn that he has left a house in Ireland to her. But that is not the only secret Harry was keeping. Katie soon learns that Harry also left the house to his ex-wife Maggie .
The two women could not be more different but are left with no choice but to go to Ireland together to try and uncover Harry’s past. But arriving at Kilcashel, they are met with unpaid bills and a huge list of repairs. As they walk through the house, they start to encounter little signs of the life Harry was building here – a new kitchen, clearly for Katie, a beloved horse for Maggie. Bit by bit they uncover a new side to the man they both loved.
With the help of handsome local gardener Dan and a band of friendly locals, together they turn the crumbling house into a stunning home full of life once again. Soon Katie realises that it is more than just the house that has stolen her heart. Could this be where she finally realises her lifelong dream of starting a bakery? And as she gets closer to Dan, might she be able to open her heart once more after such a tragic loss?
But when a letter arrives revealing the truth about Harry’s past and an unexpected tragedy strikes the house, will Katie want to realise her Irish dream or be forced home for good?
An absolutely glorious and emotional read about family secrets, friendship and finding home. Perfect for fans of Susanne O’Leary, Cathy Kelly and Kathleen McGurl.
Perched on the edge of the roaring Irish Sea, Kilcashel House was somewhere New Yorker Katie never imagined she would live. But when her partner Harry dies suddenly with a diamond engagement ring in his top pocket, Katie is shocked to learn that he has left a house in Ireland to her. But that is not the only secret Harry was keeping. Katie soon learns that Harry also left the house to his ex-wife Maggie .
The two women could not be more different but are left with no choice but to go to Ireland together to try and uncover Harry’s past. But arriving at Kilcashel, they are met with unpaid bills and a huge list of repairs. As they walk through the house, they start to encounter little signs of the life Harry was building here – a new kitchen, clearly for Katie, a beloved horse for Maggie. Bit by bit they uncover a new side to the man they both loved.
With the help of handsome local gardener Dan and a band of friendly locals, together they turn the crumbling house into a stunning home full of life once again. Soon Katie realises that it is more than just the house that has stolen her heart. Could this be where she finally realises her lifelong dream of starting a bakery? And as she gets closer to Dan, might she be able to open her heart once more after such a tragic loss?
But when a letter arrives revealing the truth about Harry’s past and an unexpected tragedy strikes the house, will Katie want to realise her Irish dream or be forced home for good?
An absolutely glorious and emotional read about family secrets, friendship and finding home. Perfect for fans of Susanne O’Leary, Cathy Kelly and Kathleen McGurl.
356 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 5, 2023
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews
August 27, 2023
Surprised by death!
I’ll be frank. Yes, I did tear up at certain parts in this tale. How could I not?
Katie Williams’s partner of six years dies in a subway shooting. Katie had asked Harry to take an Uber but roadworks made the journey too time consuming. Harry had ended his life in the wrong place at the wrong time.
The reading of the Will has Katie, and Harry’s ex wife and business partner Maggie, discovering that all the money has gone. Harry had secretly bought a place in Ireland that they knew nothing about. Kilcashel House in Wicklow County.
To inherit they must both go to Ireland and live at Kilcashel Housefor ten months. What they find is an empty, half renovated mansion on the sea, with a life tenant occupying the gate lodge. Anna Walker is a somewhat grumpy woman who wants them gone.
Both women have been screwed over by Harry. Katie’s passion is baking. She was to have opened a Bagel Bakery in Manhattan. Maggie is an experienced marketer who could sell pearls to an oyster. She and Harry had maintained their business relationship successfully after divorcing.
The story of these two disparate women settling into the community has its moments. More than enough! They become part of the community as time goes on.
For all that the Irish House pulled at my heartstrings, I found things just a little too contrived and coincidental which ends up predictably where you were channeled.
A reasonable story but I found Her Husband’s Secret a much stronger, less forced read.
A Bookouture ARC via NetGalley.
Many thanks to the author and publisher.
(Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.)
I’ll be frank. Yes, I did tear up at certain parts in this tale. How could I not?
Katie Williams’s partner of six years dies in a subway shooting. Katie had asked Harry to take an Uber but roadworks made the journey too time consuming. Harry had ended his life in the wrong place at the wrong time.
The reading of the Will has Katie, and Harry’s ex wife and business partner Maggie, discovering that all the money has gone. Harry had secretly bought a place in Ireland that they knew nothing about. Kilcashel House in Wicklow County.
To inherit they must both go to Ireland and live at Kilcashel Housefor ten months. What they find is an empty, half renovated mansion on the sea, with a life tenant occupying the gate lodge. Anna Walker is a somewhat grumpy woman who wants them gone.
Both women have been screwed over by Harry. Katie’s passion is baking. She was to have opened a Bagel Bakery in Manhattan. Maggie is an experienced marketer who could sell pearls to an oyster. She and Harry had maintained their business relationship successfully after divorcing.
The story of these two disparate women settling into the community has its moments. More than enough! They become part of the community as time goes on.
For all that the Irish House pulled at my heartstrings, I found things just a little too contrived and coincidental which ends up predictably where you were channeled.
A reasonable story but I found Her Husband’s Secret a much stronger, less forced read.
A Bookouture ARC via NetGalley.
Many thanks to the author and publisher.
(Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.)
September 16, 2023
I received a free copy of, Secrets of an Irish House, by Ann O'Loughlin, from the publisher and Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. Katie from New York is devastated when her boyfriend Harry dies. Katie inherits a house in Ireland along with Harry's ex wife Maggie. This is a great book, I really enjoyed it. Katie is wonderful, I did not care for Maggie at all though. Anna is a delight, as our the other people of this wonderful town in Ireland. So many emotions from this book. So many ups and downs.
August 19, 2023
Secrets of an Irish House is a gripping contemporary triumph. What a complex emotional story of pain, loss, hardship and heartache. I was wiped out by the time I reached the end of this novel. My eyes hurt from the uncontrollable tears I shed. There are so many sad and life-changing events these characters experience that it left me raw and profoundly moved. But it is not all despair and sorrow as there are some touching moments when healing and happiness blossom at the Irish house of Kilcashel. The landscape and residence have a very positive effect on those who dwell in and around it. Unlikely alliances develop through trauma and challenges. Restoration occurs and like a speck of dirt in an oyster, a pearl of great friendship develops.
The characters are well developed and ones we care about. New Yorker Katie receives word her partner Harry has died in a tragic event. Devastated by the news, she tries her best to function. At the reading of his will, she receives another shocking revelation: he owns a house in Ireland and has left it to her and also his ex-wife, Maggie. If that isn’t bizarre enough, there is a stipulation. They must live there for a year, together, to inherit it. This request is a challenge in so many ways. Not to mention they are very different personalities. But since neither of them have any resources left (thanks to Harry’s activities) they must head to the Irish residence. And also to figure out Harry’s secret life and last wishes. Katie arrives first, and meets more surprises, including a woman living on the premises in the gatehouse. Anna has a story of her own that once known explains a lot of her strange behaviour and presence.
There are some quirky local women who get woven into Katie and Maggie’s life and a kind and handsome gardener named Dan. They all play some very important roles in restoring the premises, helping Katie bring about her dream and even provide Maggie an opportunity to exercise her talents. They learn so much more about Harry’s life and who he was. Why he was drawn to Kilcashel. He obviously cared about these two women and their interests. For Katie, he built a state of the art kitchen and for Maggie he purchased a beloved horse. As for the residence: it has seen better days and although Harry had begun the work, it still needs some serious renovation. And with the help of a few friends, it happens! This novel oozes community spirit, friendship and love.
Ann once again tackles the hard questions and difficult relationship issues with skill and respect. Death and grief are a big part of this story but we get to see how three different individuals deal with their loss. And how they each find themselves on a road to healing and discover their place of contentment and purpose.
The storyline explores the unusual ‘what ifs.’ Various scenarios are fleshed out such as putting two women together who had been with the same man, in a foreign land in a house they knew nothing about. This is an unimaginable situation but they make something positive out of a negative situation. Maggie and Katie create an amazing new business together in Ireland and their relationship grows. The battles they face draw them closer and they become like sisters.
The number of secrets housed within Kilcashel is off the charts. It is such an intriguing plot and just when you think there cannot be more threads to unravel, more appear. I remained engaged and invested in the plot and characters through every twist and turn. There’s plenty of drama and devastation. Although sadness flows in like the waves on the shore, it also recedes momentarily to allow happiness to appear. And the shocking cold ocean invigorates Katie and Maggie—waking their senses to the world around them.
The lure of the sea, beloved Ireland, an old homestead and its residents charmed me. I love old houses and the stories they harbour. I could feel Katie’s emotions as she looked upon the old kitchen with all its bench marks and the period furniture that was stowed away. The numerous family connections in this story really tugged on my heart strings. My own passion for Ireland and my ancestors made me feel a real connection to this story. A story about dreams in a stunning landscape filled with new adventures. I totally recommend this glorious emotional read. 5 Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Thanks to Bookouture and Netgalley for my review copy.
The characters are well developed and ones we care about. New Yorker Katie receives word her partner Harry has died in a tragic event. Devastated by the news, she tries her best to function. At the reading of his will, she receives another shocking revelation: he owns a house in Ireland and has left it to her and also his ex-wife, Maggie. If that isn’t bizarre enough, there is a stipulation. They must live there for a year, together, to inherit it. This request is a challenge in so many ways. Not to mention they are very different personalities. But since neither of them have any resources left (thanks to Harry’s activities) they must head to the Irish residence. And also to figure out Harry’s secret life and last wishes. Katie arrives first, and meets more surprises, including a woman living on the premises in the gatehouse. Anna has a story of her own that once known explains a lot of her strange behaviour and presence.
There are some quirky local women who get woven into Katie and Maggie’s life and a kind and handsome gardener named Dan. They all play some very important roles in restoring the premises, helping Katie bring about her dream and even provide Maggie an opportunity to exercise her talents. They learn so much more about Harry’s life and who he was. Why he was drawn to Kilcashel. He obviously cared about these two women and their interests. For Katie, he built a state of the art kitchen and for Maggie he purchased a beloved horse. As for the residence: it has seen better days and although Harry had begun the work, it still needs some serious renovation. And with the help of a few friends, it happens! This novel oozes community spirit, friendship and love.
Ann once again tackles the hard questions and difficult relationship issues with skill and respect. Death and grief are a big part of this story but we get to see how three different individuals deal with their loss. And how they each find themselves on a road to healing and discover their place of contentment and purpose.
The storyline explores the unusual ‘what ifs.’ Various scenarios are fleshed out such as putting two women together who had been with the same man, in a foreign land in a house they knew nothing about. This is an unimaginable situation but they make something positive out of a negative situation. Maggie and Katie create an amazing new business together in Ireland and their relationship grows. The battles they face draw them closer and they become like sisters.
The number of secrets housed within Kilcashel is off the charts. It is such an intriguing plot and just when you think there cannot be more threads to unravel, more appear. I remained engaged and invested in the plot and characters through every twist and turn. There’s plenty of drama and devastation. Although sadness flows in like the waves on the shore, it also recedes momentarily to allow happiness to appear. And the shocking cold ocean invigorates Katie and Maggie—waking their senses to the world around them.
The lure of the sea, beloved Ireland, an old homestead and its residents charmed me. I love old houses and the stories they harbour. I could feel Katie’s emotions as she looked upon the old kitchen with all its bench marks and the period furniture that was stowed away. The numerous family connections in this story really tugged on my heart strings. My own passion for Ireland and my ancestors made me feel a real connection to this story. A story about dreams in a stunning landscape filled with new adventures. I totally recommend this glorious emotional read. 5 Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Thanks to Bookouture and Netgalley for my review copy.
September 5, 2023
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Thank you to Bookouture, NetGalley and the author for a complimentary copy of the book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.
This was an unusual book in that the setup was a little convoluted: Katie’s boyfriend, and Maggie’s ex-husband, dies in a subway shooting in New York City. It turns out his net worth is zilch, except for a castle he bought in Ireland the year before, something neither woman knew about. What’s more, Harry has left the house to both women, with the stipulation that they live there for four seasons (ten months) before deciding whether to sell or stay. I’ve never heard of any sort of setup like this in real life, but I also know that anyone can put anything in a will, within reason.
Despite the unconventional setup, I really found myself immersed in the book and what happened to Katie and Maggie. Each woman has a strong personality, so naturally there are going to be clashes. Yet they act as adults and every time conflicts arise, they either walk away for a bit to cool down, or de-escalate the situation and calmly discuss their differences. This is such a refreshing thing in books, where I’ve read way too many books where the characters seem to thrive on conflict. This is the best sort of women’s fiction: adults acting like it, having real emotions, real reactions, and real conflict-resolution examples.
The secondary characters in the book add to the overall satisfaction to the story. First, there’s Ann, the cantankerous woman Harry granted a life tenancy to in the cottage on the grounds. Then there’s Dan, the handsome helper who takes care of the grounds of the estate. Sprinkle in a few other villagers and you’ve got yourself a literary and lively party.
There’s a plethora of emotions going on throughout this book, and it wouldn’t surprise me if you laugh out loud a few times as well as shed a few tears. No spoilers, but there’s definitely a rollercoaster of feelings while reading this book. As for the secrets, there are plenty, all slowly revealed throughout. I’m glad I read Secrets of an Irish House, and hope you’ll take a chance on it, too.
Thank you to Bookouture, NetGalley and the author for a complimentary copy of the book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.
This was an unusual book in that the setup was a little convoluted: Katie’s boyfriend, and Maggie’s ex-husband, dies in a subway shooting in New York City. It turns out his net worth is zilch, except for a castle he bought in Ireland the year before, something neither woman knew about. What’s more, Harry has left the house to both women, with the stipulation that they live there for four seasons (ten months) before deciding whether to sell or stay. I’ve never heard of any sort of setup like this in real life, but I also know that anyone can put anything in a will, within reason.
Despite the unconventional setup, I really found myself immersed in the book and what happened to Katie and Maggie. Each woman has a strong personality, so naturally there are going to be clashes. Yet they act as adults and every time conflicts arise, they either walk away for a bit to cool down, or de-escalate the situation and calmly discuss their differences. This is such a refreshing thing in books, where I’ve read way too many books where the characters seem to thrive on conflict. This is the best sort of women’s fiction: adults acting like it, having real emotions, real reactions, and real conflict-resolution examples.
The secondary characters in the book add to the overall satisfaction to the story. First, there’s Ann, the cantankerous woman Harry granted a life tenancy to in the cottage on the grounds. Then there’s Dan, the handsome helper who takes care of the grounds of the estate. Sprinkle in a few other villagers and you’ve got yourself a literary and lively party.
There’s a plethora of emotions going on throughout this book, and it wouldn’t surprise me if you laugh out loud a few times as well as shed a few tears. No spoilers, but there’s definitely a rollercoaster of feelings while reading this book. As for the secrets, there are plenty, all slowly revealed throughout. I’m glad I read Secrets of an Irish House, and hope you’ll take a chance on it, too.
August 9, 2023
Ann O'Loughlin books are sheer heaven and total escapism, from start to finish.
Anna Maggie and Katie are brought together by circumstancesthat they don't really know the answer to but as time goes by certain incidents come to light.
I want to give nothing away only to say this really is a outstandingly beautiful and heart warming book.
Anna Maggie and Katie are brought together by circumstancesthat they don't really know the answer to but as time goes by certain incidents come to light.
I want to give nothing away only to say this really is a outstandingly beautiful and heart warming book.
August 5, 2023
Thank you NetGalley and Bookouture for the opportunity to read "Secrets of an Irish House" in exchange for my honest review.
This story of strong women, friendships and family that that we are not related to but build for ourselves is moving and incredibly powerful. A box of tissues will come in handy because you will get so involved with these women that it will tear at your heart when they are in pain.
The story starts in Manhattan, New York where we meet Katie Williams and Maggie Flint during the reading of Harry Flint's will. Katie being his partner and Maggie being the ex-wife. Harry was shot riding home on the subway. He left everything - Kilcashel House, the grounds/estate and a gate lodge in county Wicklow, Ireland to the two women to share equally. They both have to live in the house for no less than 10 months starting in the spring and they must be there at the same time. Harry had remortgaged the apartment Katie lives as well as the one Maggie lives in - so the basically have no where to live.
The story continues in County Wicklow where the two women have moved. They learn that Anna Walker lives in the gate lodge. She had never met Harry when he bought the property, and Harry not only didn't tell Katie and Maggie about the purchase but they had no idea that someone would be living there. Katie wants to stay in Ireland because she has nothing to go back to in the States - she hopes to set up a café or bakery like she had been planning in Manhattan before everything in her world had changed. Maggie on the other hand wants to sell up and go back to Manhattan as soon as they fulfill their legal obligations.
There are many secrets in this story, that tore a family apart. Bitter feelings that are easier to hide behind than talk about. Why did Harry buy this house? Katie and Maggie decided that the best thing for both of them is if they are partners in the Drawing Room Café. They learn that neither of them ever really knew Harry. They find that he bought both of them identical gifts on every occasion.
The best description of this story is that someday you find that the person you least expected will become your best friend. This can certainly be said about the women in this book. They might not have started out liking each other but they end up being the greatest support network anyone could hope for. An absolutely brilliant read, worth more than 5 stars!
This story of strong women, friendships and family that that we are not related to but build for ourselves is moving and incredibly powerful. A box of tissues will come in handy because you will get so involved with these women that it will tear at your heart when they are in pain.
The story starts in Manhattan, New York where we meet Katie Williams and Maggie Flint during the reading of Harry Flint's will. Katie being his partner and Maggie being the ex-wife. Harry was shot riding home on the subway. He left everything - Kilcashel House, the grounds/estate and a gate lodge in county Wicklow, Ireland to the two women to share equally. They both have to live in the house for no less than 10 months starting in the spring and they must be there at the same time. Harry had remortgaged the apartment Katie lives as well as the one Maggie lives in - so the basically have no where to live.
The story continues in County Wicklow where the two women have moved. They learn that Anna Walker lives in the gate lodge. She had never met Harry when he bought the property, and Harry not only didn't tell Katie and Maggie about the purchase but they had no idea that someone would be living there. Katie wants to stay in Ireland because she has nothing to go back to in the States - she hopes to set up a café or bakery like she had been planning in Manhattan before everything in her world had changed. Maggie on the other hand wants to sell up and go back to Manhattan as soon as they fulfill their legal obligations.
There are many secrets in this story, that tore a family apart. Bitter feelings that are easier to hide behind than talk about. Why did Harry buy this house? Katie and Maggie decided that the best thing for both of them is if they are partners in the Drawing Room Café. They learn that neither of them ever really knew Harry. They find that he bought both of them identical gifts on every occasion.
The best description of this story is that someday you find that the person you least expected will become your best friend. This can certainly be said about the women in this book. They might not have started out liking each other but they end up being the greatest support network anyone could hope for. An absolutely brilliant read, worth more than 5 stars!
September 6, 2023
Today is my stop on the book tour for Secrets of an Irish House by Ann O’Loughlin. Being of Irish descent I always gravitate towards books that take place in Ireland. So I jumped at the opportunity to read and review this book.
Katie’s boyfriend, Harry, was shot and killed in a shooting in New York. At the reading of his will Katie is shocked to discover that Harry bought a house in Ireland and bequeathed it to both her and his ex-wife Maggie. But there is a catch. Both women must move to Ireland right away and live together in Kilcashel House in order to claim ownership. Reluctantly the two women leave their lives in New York and head to the beautiful Irish Coast to start the next journey of their lives.
Maggie and Katie are polar opposite’s. Maggie is an extrovert and demands an audience while Katie is quieter and more reserved. Maggie wants to sell Kilcashel House while Katie falls in love and wants to open a bakery.
After a few weeks both women fall in love with their home, the beautiful seascape and the crazy people that live in their community. There is the grumpy Anna, gruff on the surface but tender hearted and loyal. She helps the two women set up and run the new bakery. Then there are the loopy swimming ladies, who take a daily dip in the frigid Irish Sea at the edge of Kilcashel House. There is also the dashingly handsome and helpful neighbour Dan, whom both women develop feelings for.
Secrets come to light and tragedy strikes but even though I shed a tear or two, The Secrets of an Irish House was such a touching and heartfelt story. It explores the power of friendship and the importance of community.
Thank you so much Bookouture for my electronic arc of The Secrets of an Irish House. I thoroughly enjoyed this 4 ⭐️ read. I look forward to reading more books by Ann O’Loughlin.
Pub Date: September 5, 2023
Katie’s boyfriend, Harry, was shot and killed in a shooting in New York. At the reading of his will Katie is shocked to discover that Harry bought a house in Ireland and bequeathed it to both her and his ex-wife Maggie. But there is a catch. Both women must move to Ireland right away and live together in Kilcashel House in order to claim ownership. Reluctantly the two women leave their lives in New York and head to the beautiful Irish Coast to start the next journey of their lives.
Maggie and Katie are polar opposite’s. Maggie is an extrovert and demands an audience while Katie is quieter and more reserved. Maggie wants to sell Kilcashel House while Katie falls in love and wants to open a bakery.
After a few weeks both women fall in love with their home, the beautiful seascape and the crazy people that live in their community. There is the grumpy Anna, gruff on the surface but tender hearted and loyal. She helps the two women set up and run the new bakery. Then there are the loopy swimming ladies, who take a daily dip in the frigid Irish Sea at the edge of Kilcashel House. There is also the dashingly handsome and helpful neighbour Dan, whom both women develop feelings for.
Secrets come to light and tragedy strikes but even though I shed a tear or two, The Secrets of an Irish House was such a touching and heartfelt story. It explores the power of friendship and the importance of community.
Thank you so much Bookouture for my electronic arc of The Secrets of an Irish House. I thoroughly enjoyed this 4 ⭐️ read. I look forward to reading more books by Ann O’Loughlin.
Pub Date: September 5, 2023
September 10, 2023
What a moving, emotional rollercoaster read this proved to be
With grief, adventure, new beginnings and a brilliant community.
Along with family secrets to be uncovered
And a possible romance to be discovered.
When Harry was killed his will was such a surprise
As his partner and ex-wife soon realise.
He's left them Kilcashel House, they'd never heard of before,
And a challenge for them both, leaving them unsure.
They have to live in the house together for ten months or more
Or they'll lose their inheritance, so they go to explore.
From New York they travel to Ireland to see what they find
And hope the bequest is him being kind!
They make plans together for a fresh start,
Using their strengths, they'll both play a part.
Linking with folks who know the house well
Maybe there are even more secrets to tell?
How can these two, so different from each other,
Get on together - that they need to discover.
With wild swimming and baking, new friends and more
There's plenty of fun in their new life to explore.
However there's also hard work, tragedy and pain
And secrets that mean life will never be the same again.
A brilliant story, so beautifully shared
Bringing people together, showing they cared.
For my complementary copy of this book, I say thank you,
As I share with you this, my honest review.
With grief, adventure, new beginnings and a brilliant community.
Along with family secrets to be uncovered
And a possible romance to be discovered.
When Harry was killed his will was such a surprise
As his partner and ex-wife soon realise.
He's left them Kilcashel House, they'd never heard of before,
And a challenge for them both, leaving them unsure.
They have to live in the house together for ten months or more
Or they'll lose their inheritance, so they go to explore.
From New York they travel to Ireland to see what they find
And hope the bequest is him being kind!
They make plans together for a fresh start,
Using their strengths, they'll both play a part.
Linking with folks who know the house well
Maybe there are even more secrets to tell?
How can these two, so different from each other,
Get on together - that they need to discover.
With wild swimming and baking, new friends and more
There's plenty of fun in their new life to explore.
However there's also hard work, tragedy and pain
And secrets that mean life will never be the same again.
A brilliant story, so beautifully shared
Bringing people together, showing they cared.
For my complementary copy of this book, I say thank you,
As I share with you this, my honest review.
August 29, 2023
Enjoyed it, although it wasn't my favorite book by the author. It reminded me a bit of My Only Daughter, mostly because of what happens to Maggie. I can’t imagine having to live ten months with my partner’s ex-wife in Ireland, getting the same Christmas gifts as each other and finding myself broke, with massive debt and homeless. Pretty much that's what happens to Katie and Maggie because of Harry. The biggest secret Harry kept from his ex-wife, Maggie and his current love, Katie was Kilcashel House and his crazy will stipulations. Loved the friends Katie and Maggie made, especially the women who went swimming in the freezing sea every morning. Katie and Maggie inherited Anna with their house. Anna was definitely abrasive and said whatever was on her mind, she had a strange obsession with her cherry blossoms and was harboring many secrets. She became a loyal friend to Katie and Maggie and once her story was revealed, everything made sense. Of all the characters, Maggie was my least favorite. I didn't hate her, but didn't enjoy her as much as the others. Everything in the bakery sounded delicious.
Definitely recommend the book. The story was an emotional rollercoaster. I'm pretty sure there were tears at the end. Who am I kidding, Ann O'Loughlin's books always cause me to cry. Kilcashel House sounded like a beautiful place to live. The gardens alone were amazing. I enjoyed the characters, writing style and story. I was hooked from the first chapter until the very end. Look forward to reading more books by the author.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Bookouture through NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Definitely recommend the book. The story was an emotional rollercoaster. I'm pretty sure there were tears at the end. Who am I kidding, Ann O'Loughlin's books always cause me to cry. Kilcashel House sounded like a beautiful place to live. The gardens alone were amazing. I enjoyed the characters, writing style and story. I was hooked from the first chapter until the very end. Look forward to reading more books by the author.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Bookouture through NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
September 6, 2023
Katie’s partner, Harry suddenly dies and in his pocket…a diamond engagement ring. But when Katie discovers that Harry left her a house in Ireland, she also learns the same house was also left to his ex-wife Maggie. Katie never imagined leaving New York for life by the beautiful Irish Sea. When she arrives she finds her new inheritance to be dilapidated, in need of much repair inside and out, and she is not the only resident. Maggie is also there and she is surprised at her new inheritance. Dan, a local gardener and a group of his friends, begin to restore the house into a beautiful home. Katie and Dan enjoy spending time together and their friendship changes as she is ready to love again. But when a letter arrives that reveals the truth about Harry’s past, Katie is faced with a heartbreaking decision: does she stay in Ireland or is it time for her to return to New York once and for all?
Secrets of an Irish House written by author Ann O’Loughlin, is an enjoyable read that swept me away to the Irish coast. The wonderful sea breeze and the sound of the waves was a great escape. I liked the plot twists and turns and the secrets of Harry’s past was a great storyline. This is a wonderful story with likable characters and a story I recommend.
Secrets of an Irish House written by author Ann O’Loughlin, is an enjoyable read that swept me away to the Irish coast. The wonderful sea breeze and the sound of the waves was a great escape. I liked the plot twists and turns and the secrets of Harry’s past was a great storyline. This is a wonderful story with likable characters and a story I recommend.
September 10, 2023
Honestly if I knew where this one was going, I might not have chosen it, but I did enjoy the read. If this were a romance, the trope would be forced proximity, but since this is about friendship, I am not sure that is considered a trope. Friendship. Grief. Starting over. Second chances. So much in this heartbreaking and heartwarming book.
It’s about how a group of women, all grieving, that despise, tolerate and then love and care for each other. That despite their differences, they also shared so much. I felt so much as I read this one. And the more I read, the more my feelings changed and grew. We all suffer challenges and tragedy at some point, but with care, we can heal and make it out the other side. A quote that caught my eye, “Life is one long challenge. You can choose to lie down in the face of the challenge, or you can ride them and move on.” What a great piece of advice, whether it’s a small set back or a life altering test.
I loved the cast of characters and all their quirks. I liked how the characters grew through strife as they moved to Ireland and adapted. I always love when food is part of a story. And I love how the women in the book rose up and helped each other. I didn’t even mind the tears I shed.
It’s about how a group of women, all grieving, that despise, tolerate and then love and care for each other. That despite their differences, they also shared so much. I felt so much as I read this one. And the more I read, the more my feelings changed and grew. We all suffer challenges and tragedy at some point, but with care, we can heal and make it out the other side. A quote that caught my eye, “Life is one long challenge. You can choose to lie down in the face of the challenge, or you can ride them and move on.” What a great piece of advice, whether it’s a small set back or a life altering test.
I loved the cast of characters and all their quirks. I liked how the characters grew through strife as they moved to Ireland and adapted. I always love when food is part of a story. And I love how the women in the book rose up and helped each other. I didn’t even mind the tears I shed.
August 13, 2023
A emotional and beautiful story about friendships, family secrets and finding a place to call home.
When main characters, Katie and Maggie inherit a manor home in Ireland, they have many misgivings. Why would Maggie’s ex-husband, Harry, and Katies partner decide to put it in his will that they have to live together in a house they never even knew he had bought? And, they have to live there together for at least 10 months?
The journey they embark on in Ireland is full of ups and downs. Will they end up friends or enemies after the 10 months is over? Will they get the life they both want?
Many thanks to NetGalley, Bookouture and the author for the opportunity to read this book for my honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.
When main characters, Katie and Maggie inherit a manor home in Ireland, they have many misgivings. Why would Maggie’s ex-husband, Harry, and Katies partner decide to put it in his will that they have to live together in a house they never even knew he had bought? And, they have to live there together for at least 10 months?
The journey they embark on in Ireland is full of ups and downs. Will they end up friends or enemies after the 10 months is over? Will they get the life they both want?
Many thanks to NetGalley, Bookouture and the author for the opportunity to read this book for my honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.
August 27, 2023
Ann O’Loughlin’s books are quickly becoming my guilty pleasure, my escape, my go to when I need what my great friend and fellow reader and Bookouture fan Sheila Dollard calls ‘a cleanser’.
A great easy, but emotional read, there’s all the feels here, grief, loss, illness, resentment, friendship and deep love.
When New Yorkers Maggie the ex wife and Katie the current partner are left a grand if dilapidated house in Ireland their lives will change immeasurably. Not only is the story compelling, just as you think it's all done and dusted there is a very unexpected and poignant twist at the end.
Like all the author’s books when I finish I feel bereft that I've left the characters and I want a sequel to catch up with them again.
A great easy, but emotional read, there’s all the feels here, grief, loss, illness, resentment, friendship and deep love.
When New Yorkers Maggie the ex wife and Katie the current partner are left a grand if dilapidated house in Ireland their lives will change immeasurably. Not only is the story compelling, just as you think it's all done and dusted there is a very unexpected and poignant twist at the end.
Like all the author’s books when I finish I feel bereft that I've left the characters and I want a sequel to catch up with them again.
August 31, 2023
Secrets of an Irish House by Ann O' Loughlin
Pushing her key into the gate lock, Katie looks up nervously at the grand tree-lined entrance sweeping up to Kilcashel House. This was not her home by choice, but if she was to ever move on from her past and uncover the truth about her beloved Harry, she would make it her home.
Harry has died and left the house to Katie , the only trouble he has done the same for Maggie , his ex wife , and it is stipulated they must live there for just short of a year.
An unusual plot but a great story , loved it that after a shaky start they begin to make the best of it, even when things happen to shake it all up in a bad way , and just when they think they have weathered the storm .........
Pushing her key into the gate lock, Katie looks up nervously at the grand tree-lined entrance sweeping up to Kilcashel House. This was not her home by choice, but if she was to ever move on from her past and uncover the truth about her beloved Harry, she would make it her home.
Harry has died and left the house to Katie , the only trouble he has done the same for Maggie , his ex wife , and it is stipulated they must live there for just short of a year.
An unusual plot but a great story , loved it that after a shaky start they begin to make the best of it, even when things happen to shake it all up in a bad way , and just when they think they have weathered the storm .........
September 29, 2023
Another fantastic, heart rending read from Ann O'loughlin.
I really loved the relationship that developed between Maggie and Katie as they were forced into a difficult situation when Harry left them Kilcashel House in Ireland. They had no idea why as he had never told them of having a house in Ireland.
My heart broke when tragedy struck I could not help shedding tears.
The women in this story were incredible, Katie,
Maggie and Anna. They all contributed in their own way when Katie's dream of having a cafe came about.
The location was fantastic. I absolutely loved the story. Ann is a fantastic writer and I shall read the next Irish House book.
Thank you Netgalley for this Arc.
I really loved the relationship that developed between Maggie and Katie as they were forced into a difficult situation when Harry left them Kilcashel House in Ireland. They had no idea why as he had never told them of having a house in Ireland.
My heart broke when tragedy struck I could not help shedding tears.
The women in this story were incredible, Katie,
Maggie and Anna. They all contributed in their own way when Katie's dream of having a cafe came about.
The location was fantastic. I absolutely loved the story. Ann is a fantastic writer and I shall read the next Irish House book.
Thank you Netgalley for this Arc.
August 19, 2023
Bit of a predictable read , with a little bombshell at the end. The lives of two women quickly change with the death of an ex-husband and current partner. They are forced to leave Manhattan to live in Ireland for ten months as dictated by his will. It is in Ireland where these two women come to terms with their lives. Lots of baking , swimming , horse riding and some interesting characters with their own secrets make up the rest of the book.
January 7, 2024
The best book I have read in a while.
Heartwarming, wholesome and equally heartbreaking all at once.
A cosy and comical story about 2 New York women who don’t see eye to eye, find themselves stuck living together in an old,derelict mansion in coastal Ireland. The book contains a host of eccentric characters,evokes beautiful imagery and has left me feeling cosy inside and very eager to read more by the author.
Heartwarming, wholesome and equally heartbreaking all at once.
A cosy and comical story about 2 New York women who don’t see eye to eye, find themselves stuck living together in an old,derelict mansion in coastal Ireland. The book contains a host of eccentric characters,evokes beautiful imagery and has left me feeling cosy inside and very eager to read more by the author.
July 26, 2024
Break out the tissues, this one is a tear jerker! A man dies, leaving an estate in Ireland, equally, to his ex-wife and his current life partner. The women are very different and neither wanted to leave Manhattan for the wilds of Ireland. Both women learn a lot about themselves, each other, and their new home. This isn't always a conformable reading experience and it may make readers hunger for bagels, cookies, cake, and Prosecco.
August 24, 2024
secrets of an Irish house
This book was a dream to read the storyline was so so good I couldn’t stop reading even when I should have been sleeping , what brilliant characters a I recommend this author and book each book has been great I love them they are stand alone tales so you can read them in any order a very well deserved 5 stars please keep them coming Ann O’Loughlin and I will keep reading them
This book was a dream to read the storyline was so so good I couldn’t stop reading even when I should have been sleeping , what brilliant characters a I recommend this author and book each book has been great I love them they are stand alone tales so you can read them in any order a very well deserved 5 stars please keep them coming Ann O’Loughlin and I will keep reading them
August 1, 2025
Heartbreaks, secrets and happiness - a full circle of life
It was the most emotional and heartbreaking book I’ve read in a while. A page turner for sure. Sorrow, sadness, grief and anger entwined with happiness, friendships and love yes that’s what life is built on and I totally agree that it’s gloriously emotional and true. Add some big secrets to it and you’ll be engaged in the story that unfolds before your eyes. Brilliant!
It was the most emotional and heartbreaking book I’ve read in a while. A page turner for sure. Sorrow, sadness, grief and anger entwined with happiness, friendships and love yes that’s what life is built on and I totally agree that it’s gloriously emotional and true. Add some big secrets to it and you’ll be engaged in the story that unfolds before your eyes. Brilliant!
September 20, 2023
Great story of strong women thrown together in unusual circumstances and finding that if they work together and make the most of it great friendships can be the result. Real roller coaster of a storyline keeps your interest as does the lovely setting of the beautiful old house by the sea in Ireland and of course a bit of romance thrown in.
September 5, 2024
What a great book. Tremendous characters that you will deeply care for. It took a few chapters to get to know a few of the characters. I really enjoyed this read, it does make you cry, that’s how much you get caught up with the people in the story. I wish there was a magic pill that I could take to forget the book just so I could have the pleasure of reading it again for the first time .
October 7, 2023
Good read
I liked the story and characters. I wish she would have gone a little farther with the ending. It made me feel like there should be another couple of chapters to close out the story of the remaining characters.
I liked the story and characters. I wish she would have gone a little farther with the ending. It made me feel like there should be another couple of chapters to close out the story of the remaining characters.
January 24, 2024
DNF the dialogue was so stilted. I just couldn't get through it. I didn't believe the new yorkers were American or that the Irish were Irish. All of the dialogue was written with perfect grammar to the point where it continually pulled me out of the story.
June 5, 2024
The story about 2 women in Manhattan who were in love with the same man. He dies. He leaves them a huge old house in Ireland. They turn it into a bakery/cafe. Maggie gets cancer and dies and Katie is left to take care of everything on her own.
August 24, 2024
This was such a great read I read in all in one go as there was so much going on I didn’t want to miss what was so much happening there was laughter and many tears were shed , I highly recommend this book and all of the authors books are stand alone , a well deserved 5 stars
October 2, 2024
Five stars
What a riveting story. I was unable to put it down once I started it. Maggie made me laugh and cry as if I were part of the story. This was very emotional and absolutely heartbreaking. Ann O'Loughlin excelled! I definitely recommend this book.
What a riveting story. I was unable to put it down once I started it. Maggie made me laugh and cry as if I were part of the story. This was very emotional and absolutely heartbreaking. Ann O'Loughlin excelled! I definitely recommend this book.
February 24, 2025
I only recently discovered Ann O'Loughlin thanks to Kindle Unlimited. This was my third book, and I'm currently on my fourth. She writes intense, complex books that I don't want to put down. I highly recommend them.
September 6, 2023
This was an entertaining book. It had good relationship development between the characters and kept me interested in continuing to read it. I enjoyed this book and would recommend it to others.
October 15, 2024
Tear jerker
Heart warming story about loss and friendship, Beautiful setting. Wish there was a follow-up to the main characters love interest!
Heart warming story about loss and friendship, Beautiful setting. Wish there was a follow-up to the main characters love interest!
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