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Magnolia Manor #2
The Granddaughter's Irish Secret
Rose places her hand protectively on her grandmother’s necklace and looks up at Magnolia Manor’s vine-covered walls. The jewels are her most precious possession, but she is terrified to tell her family the truth about where they really come from… Standing in the doorway of her grandmother Sylvia’s home, Rose Fleury thought returning here was the answer to all of her problems. She has no job and a broken heart, but Sylvia reminds her that Fleury women of the past were strong and independent, and she can be too. Clutching a family heirloom – a beautiful topaz necklace – Rose promises to be brave like her relatives. Until she finds out that the jewels hide a terrible secret…
Someone in town is claiming the necklace is fake. Rose knows Sylvia will be devastated by this news, and it could shatter their family’s reputation. For the sake of her grandmother, Rose is determined to find the real necklace and discover why it was replaced – and quickly convinces handsome local lawyer Noel Quinn to join her. Though Noel’s broad shoulders in his suit and tie remind Rose of her ex-boyfriend, he seems just as fascinated by the mystery, and she finds her heart fluttering every time he catches her eye…
But when Rose traces the real necklace to another family, and another ancestral home in a nearby village, she’s shocked to discover a forbidden love that once tore her family apart – and that Noel is connected to it. Can she really trust the man she’s been growing so close to? And will the truth about the Fleury family cause a rift between Rose and Sylvia that is impossible to repair?
A gorgeous page-turner about finding love and long-lost family secrets, which will transport you to Ireland’s beautiful shores. Fans of Debbie Macomber, Tricia O’Malley and Mary Alice Monroe will be swept away, unable to put this book down.
Someone in town is claiming the necklace is fake. Rose knows Sylvia will be devastated by this news, and it could shatter their family’s reputation. For the sake of her grandmother, Rose is determined to find the real necklace and discover why it was replaced – and quickly convinces handsome local lawyer Noel Quinn to join her. Though Noel’s broad shoulders in his suit and tie remind Rose of her ex-boyfriend, he seems just as fascinated by the mystery, and she finds her heart fluttering every time he catches her eye…
But when Rose traces the real necklace to another family, and another ancestral home in a nearby village, she’s shocked to discover a forbidden love that once tore her family apart – and that Noel is connected to it. Can she really trust the man she’s been growing so close to? And will the truth about the Fleury family cause a rift between Rose and Sylvia that is impossible to repair?
A gorgeous page-turner about finding love and long-lost family secrets, which will transport you to Ireland’s beautiful shores. Fans of Debbie Macomber, Tricia O’Malley and Mary Alice Monroe will be swept away, unable to put this book down.
248 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 5, 2024
2640 people are currently reading
188 people want to read
About the author
Susanne O'Leary
57 books380 followersSusanne O’Leary is the bestselling author of more than 30 novels, mainly romantic fiction set in Ireland. Her many books set in County Kerry have been hugely popular with readers all over the world. She shares her time between Dublin and Kerry, where she and her husband have a little cottage near the beach. The wild, beautiful landscape, the small villages and the friendly people of that county have inspired her to write her feel-good stories. She's been inspired to represent people of all ages and walks of life, with lots of romance, and more than a dash of humour.
When she is not writing or reading by the fire, Susanne loves heading for the great outdoors, walking on the beaches or scaling the green hills of her favourite county.
When she is not writing or reading by the fire, Susanne loves heading for the great outdoors, walking on the beaches or scaling the green hills of her favourite county.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 49 reviews
May 16, 2024
Publication Date: 05th June 2024
3.5 Stars
One Liner: Good drama; not enough romance
Rose Fleury returns to Dingle to the family home, Magnolia Manor. The place is being renovated and converted into residential housing for senior citizens. Nursing heartbreak, Rose hopes to find a fresh start in a place filled with childhood memories and her grandmother Sylvia.
When Rose realizes that her topaz necklace, a family heirloom is fake, she is worried the news will upset her dear grandmother. Rose begins to dig through the family archives to find out more about the necklace. With help from Noel Quinn, a local lawyer, Rose is determined to solve the mystery.
Will this also give her a chance to build a relationship with the handsome lawyer?
The story comes in Rose’s third-person POV.
My Thoughts:
The book should work as a standalone, though it seems to have elements from the first book (which I didn’t read). It is Lily’s story and also has elements related to the Magnolia Manor. Yet, I could understand the basics without much difficulty.
Sylvia seems to be a great character, though she doesn’t have much role in this one. Whatever I saw of her is good. The side characters are definitely intriguing, more so than the FMC, which doesn’t work well for her. Henri, Vicky, Noel, etc., manage to make an impression.
The book is quite short (200+ pages) and has a fast pace. This is an advantage and a disadvantage. The pace keeps the story moving and covers many days at a stretch. However, it doesn’t give the reader a chance to connect with the characters. This made it very hard for me to connect with Rose. I couldn’t get a hang of her.
I loved the mystery of the necklace and the backstory behind it. I kept guessing where and how it would turn. Moreover, the conclusion for the mystery is also good. Not what I expected, but something I really liked.
The setting is good, too. We get enough glimpses of the countryside and lush landscape with cliffs, sea, charming sunsets, etc.
My main issue is with the romance between Rose and Noel. I just couldn’t feel their chemistry despite enough scenes between the two. Rose’s third-person POV somehow doesn’t give us the depth of her emotions. For a long time, she doesn’t want anything more from him, but then she is suddenly in love? Even afterward, she is tentative? Not convinced!
To summarize, The Granddaughter's Irish Secret works better as a family drama than a romance. The book should be more enjoyable to fans of the author or those who liked the previous book in the series.
Thank you, NetGalley and Bookouture, for eARC. This review is voluntary and contains my honest opinion about the book.
#NetGalley #TheGranddaughtersIrishSecret
3.5 Stars
One Liner: Good drama; not enough romance
Rose Fleury returns to Dingle to the family home, Magnolia Manor. The place is being renovated and converted into residential housing for senior citizens. Nursing heartbreak, Rose hopes to find a fresh start in a place filled with childhood memories and her grandmother Sylvia.
When Rose realizes that her topaz necklace, a family heirloom is fake, she is worried the news will upset her dear grandmother. Rose begins to dig through the family archives to find out more about the necklace. With help from Noel Quinn, a local lawyer, Rose is determined to solve the mystery.
Will this also give her a chance to build a relationship with the handsome lawyer?
The story comes in Rose’s third-person POV.
My Thoughts:
The book should work as a standalone, though it seems to have elements from the first book (which I didn’t read). It is Lily’s story and also has elements related to the Magnolia Manor. Yet, I could understand the basics without much difficulty.
Sylvia seems to be a great character, though she doesn’t have much role in this one. Whatever I saw of her is good. The side characters are definitely intriguing, more so than the FMC, which doesn’t work well for her. Henri, Vicky, Noel, etc., manage to make an impression.
The book is quite short (200+ pages) and has a fast pace. This is an advantage and a disadvantage. The pace keeps the story moving and covers many days at a stretch. However, it doesn’t give the reader a chance to connect with the characters. This made it very hard for me to connect with Rose. I couldn’t get a hang of her.
I loved the mystery of the necklace and the backstory behind it. I kept guessing where and how it would turn. Moreover, the conclusion for the mystery is also good. Not what I expected, but something I really liked.
The setting is good, too. We get enough glimpses of the countryside and lush landscape with cliffs, sea, charming sunsets, etc.
My main issue is with the romance between Rose and Noel. I just couldn’t feel their chemistry despite enough scenes between the two. Rose’s third-person POV somehow doesn’t give us the depth of her emotions. For a long time, she doesn’t want anything more from him, but then she is suddenly in love? Even afterward, she is tentative? Not convinced!
To summarize, The Granddaughter's Irish Secret works better as a family drama than a romance. The book should be more enjoyable to fans of the author or those who liked the previous book in the series.
Thank you, NetGalley and Bookouture, for eARC. This review is voluntary and contains my honest opinion about the book.
#NetGalley #TheGranddaughtersIrishSecret
June 6, 2024
The Granddaughter’s Irish Secret by Susanne O’Leary is the second book of the new contemporary romance Magnolia Manor series. As with a lot of romance series the Magnolia Manor series is one that changes the main characters in each new book of the series with the setting in this particular series tying them together so they all can be read as a standalone or even in any order if choosing to do so. These is some character development that carries over from book to book and glimpses of previous characters for those that follow the series from the beginning.
After a break up Rose Fleury decided what she needed most was a fresh start and getting away from her life that had fallen apart. Rose decided to leave Dublin and return to Magnolia Manor, her grandmother Sylvia’s home, and take a job helping turn the manor into Sylvia’s dream of senior housing. When Rose needs a date to a friend’s wedding she asks Noel Quinn as a friend but when Rose finds out her family heirloom necklace is a fake she enlists Noel’s help in finding what happened to the original bringing the pair closer and closer together.
I’ve read many many a title from author Susanne O’Leary and continue to come back for these quick romance reads that the author does such a wonderful job bringing the reader into the remote Irish settings. This new series seems to be incorporating a mystery in each book but yet I hesitate to tag them as mystery too with the characters simply looking into their family history but there is that side to the book. I did find some things in the first of this series that I didn’t quite like and found this second to be an improvement on that front too bringing my rating this time up to three and half stars this time around.
I received an advance copy from the publisher via NetGalley.
For more reviews please visit https://carriesbookreviews.com/
After a break up Rose Fleury decided what she needed most was a fresh start and getting away from her life that had fallen apart. Rose decided to leave Dublin and return to Magnolia Manor, her grandmother Sylvia’s home, and take a job helping turn the manor into Sylvia’s dream of senior housing. When Rose needs a date to a friend’s wedding she asks Noel Quinn as a friend but when Rose finds out her family heirloom necklace is a fake she enlists Noel’s help in finding what happened to the original bringing the pair closer and closer together.
I’ve read many many a title from author Susanne O’Leary and continue to come back for these quick romance reads that the author does such a wonderful job bringing the reader into the remote Irish settings. This new series seems to be incorporating a mystery in each book but yet I hesitate to tag them as mystery too with the characters simply looking into their family history but there is that side to the book. I did find some things in the first of this series that I didn’t quite like and found this second to be an improvement on that front too bringing my rating this time up to three and half stars this time around.
I received an advance copy from the publisher via NetGalley.
For more reviews please visit https://carriesbookreviews.com/
June 8, 2024
Check out all my reviews at: https://www.avonnalovesgenres.com
THE GRANDDAUGHTER’S IRISH SECRET (Magnolia Manor Book #2) by Susanne O’Leary is an engaging women’s fiction with both a sweet, slow-burn romance and a historical mystery set on the bucolic Irish coast. While this is the second book in the series, it can easily be read as a standalone story.
Rose Fleury leaves her Dublin job and returns home after a major break-up. Her grandmother, Sylvia offers her a place to stay in Magnolia Manor’s gate house and a management job on the transition project as she heals emotionally. She is invited to the wedding of a former work friend and asks Noel Quinn, their local family lawyer to be her plus one as a friend. At the same time, she discovers when she gets her family heirloom necklace cleaned for the wedding that while beautiful, it is a copy.
Rose is determined to discover what happened to the original necklace before telling her grandmother it is a fake. Noel is as interested in history and the mystery of the necklace as Rose. As they work together to discover where the original may be, Rose begins to look at Noel in a new way. They discover the real necklace is tied to a forbidden love that tore her ancestors apart and that Noel is connected to it.
This story has so many things happening, but not in a bad way. The sweet, slow-burn romance is appropriate after Rose’s break-up and Noel is an intelligent and steady man to count on. The mystery of the heirloom necklace is more prominent than the romance in this story and it is well paced throughout. I thought the historical mystery and search for answers is very well plotted and interesting. While all the pieces of this story blend well and I liked all the characters and beautiful scenic descriptions, I still felt as though I was only reading about the characters and their mystery and not walking in the story with them. It is hard to describe and only my personal experience, but it was still an enjoyable read.
This is an entertaining women’s fiction with an intriguing historical mystery.
THE GRANDDAUGHTER’S IRISH SECRET (Magnolia Manor Book #2) by Susanne O’Leary is an engaging women’s fiction with both a sweet, slow-burn romance and a historical mystery set on the bucolic Irish coast. While this is the second book in the series, it can easily be read as a standalone story.
Rose Fleury leaves her Dublin job and returns home after a major break-up. Her grandmother, Sylvia offers her a place to stay in Magnolia Manor’s gate house and a management job on the transition project as she heals emotionally. She is invited to the wedding of a former work friend and asks Noel Quinn, their local family lawyer to be her plus one as a friend. At the same time, she discovers when she gets her family heirloom necklace cleaned for the wedding that while beautiful, it is a copy.
Rose is determined to discover what happened to the original necklace before telling her grandmother it is a fake. Noel is as interested in history and the mystery of the necklace as Rose. As they work together to discover where the original may be, Rose begins to look at Noel in a new way. They discover the real necklace is tied to a forbidden love that tore her ancestors apart and that Noel is connected to it.
This story has so many things happening, but not in a bad way. The sweet, slow-burn romance is appropriate after Rose’s break-up and Noel is an intelligent and steady man to count on. The mystery of the heirloom necklace is more prominent than the romance in this story and it is well paced throughout. I thought the historical mystery and search for answers is very well plotted and interesting. While all the pieces of this story blend well and I liked all the characters and beautiful scenic descriptions, I still felt as though I was only reading about the characters and their mystery and not walking in the story with them. It is hard to describe and only my personal experience, but it was still an enjoyable read.
This is an entertaining women’s fiction with an intriguing historical mystery.
May 12, 2024
Review of The Granddaughter’s Irish Secret by Susanne O’Leary
I absolutely adore a good family heirloom mystery and Susanne O’Leary is a master of them. I always know when I start reading one of her novels, I won’t be able to stop! To say I am a huge fan is an understatement. Her writing is exceptional and truly rejuvenates my spirit. I enjoy every minute inside one of her Irish stories, visiting both former and new characters and seeing where their journeys take them. And the bonus? They are set in Ireland: my most favourite place in all the world!
The Granddaugher’s Irish Secret, the second book of the Magnolia Manor series, is a beautiful captivating story about family, second chances (for both humans and buildings), fashion and heirloom jewellery. The plot is infused with love, secrets, awakenings and an intriguing mystery. It caught my attention from page one and held me spellbound throughout. I truly felt transported to the west coast Ireland, Dingle Peninsula in Country Kerry: a place of stunning beauty. So, this heavenly location creates a delightful backdrop for the tumultuous and mesmerising journey of Rose Fleury.
Rose had it all. A great job at a major real estate firm in Dublin and a handsome and charming boyfriend who just happened to be her boss. But one day, everything changes and he suddenly walks out on her, leaving her tumbling in a shockwave. What was meant to be a beautiful romantic dinner (prepared by Rose), becomes a horrifying shattered goodbye. His sudden departure is so unexpected. Unable to face her friends and co-workers, she grabs a lifeline when her grandmother calls her and asks if she knows of anyone who could fill a position that has opened up at Magnolia Manor. She certainly does! Herself! Nursing a wounded and embarrassed heart, she resigns from her Dublin job, heads for the west coast of Ireland and takes up a position offered by her grandmother. Magnolia Manor is being turned into seniors’ apartments and someone needs to oversee the project. Rose is ready to put her degree and experience into action. She is excited at the prospects of the Manor’s new purpose and believes it will breathe life back into the old buildings.
But it is a big job and she needs a bit of help. Frenchmen Henri and his father Arnaud are investors. Sylvia, Rose’s grandmother, is in a relationship with Arnaud and she is hoping Rose will get along with Henri, who tends to be a real annoyance to her. But he is on the premises working out the apartment details so they must learn to work together. Then there is Noel, the local lawyer who is also involved as he has been asked by Sylvia (Rose’s grandmother) to look after various legal matters, pertaining to the property. He is a kind and understanding person that Rose gets along well with. Will their friendship blossom further? He has a wonderful presence in the story: a real white knight in many ways.
The Fleury women are strong independent ladies who inherit some unique and valuable jewellery. These pieces are passed down through the generations. Rose has a necklace her grandmother gave her but discovers when it is in for repairs, it is a fake! This sets her on a mission to see what became of the original piece. What she discovers is unexpected and this part of the plot was fun and intriguing. For when she eventually unravels the mystery, she learns of another family that is connected to the Fleury’s and the jewellery. This search will test Noel’s and Rose’s friendship and expose some surprising secrets and hidden passions.
I loved the exploration of the Manor archives and as Noel says, it was like ‘like stepping into a time machine’ going through old photos and other pieces of heritage items. I enjoy the history that is always present in Susanne’s stories and how it affects the present. I also was delighted to see some familiar faces from Book 1 like Lily and Sylvia. And the old Magnolia Manor itself is a fine character with new development.
I had no sense of time while reading The Granddaughter’s Irish Secret. I became completely lost in the story. The gentle romance, the second chances, the family secrets and dramas, the mystery and history and wonderful characters made this an uplifting and exciting read. Loved, loved, loved it! Highly recommend this heart-warming and memorable novel! 5 Stars
Thanks to Bookouture and Netgalley for the ARC.
I absolutely adore a good family heirloom mystery and Susanne O’Leary is a master of them. I always know when I start reading one of her novels, I won’t be able to stop! To say I am a huge fan is an understatement. Her writing is exceptional and truly rejuvenates my spirit. I enjoy every minute inside one of her Irish stories, visiting both former and new characters and seeing where their journeys take them. And the bonus? They are set in Ireland: my most favourite place in all the world!
The Granddaugher’s Irish Secret, the second book of the Magnolia Manor series, is a beautiful captivating story about family, second chances (for both humans and buildings), fashion and heirloom jewellery. The plot is infused with love, secrets, awakenings and an intriguing mystery. It caught my attention from page one and held me spellbound throughout. I truly felt transported to the west coast Ireland, Dingle Peninsula in Country Kerry: a place of stunning beauty. So, this heavenly location creates a delightful backdrop for the tumultuous and mesmerising journey of Rose Fleury.
Rose had it all. A great job at a major real estate firm in Dublin and a handsome and charming boyfriend who just happened to be her boss. But one day, everything changes and he suddenly walks out on her, leaving her tumbling in a shockwave. What was meant to be a beautiful romantic dinner (prepared by Rose), becomes a horrifying shattered goodbye. His sudden departure is so unexpected. Unable to face her friends and co-workers, she grabs a lifeline when her grandmother calls her and asks if she knows of anyone who could fill a position that has opened up at Magnolia Manor. She certainly does! Herself! Nursing a wounded and embarrassed heart, she resigns from her Dublin job, heads for the west coast of Ireland and takes up a position offered by her grandmother. Magnolia Manor is being turned into seniors’ apartments and someone needs to oversee the project. Rose is ready to put her degree and experience into action. She is excited at the prospects of the Manor’s new purpose and believes it will breathe life back into the old buildings.
But it is a big job and she needs a bit of help. Frenchmen Henri and his father Arnaud are investors. Sylvia, Rose’s grandmother, is in a relationship with Arnaud and she is hoping Rose will get along with Henri, who tends to be a real annoyance to her. But he is on the premises working out the apartment details so they must learn to work together. Then there is Noel, the local lawyer who is also involved as he has been asked by Sylvia (Rose’s grandmother) to look after various legal matters, pertaining to the property. He is a kind and understanding person that Rose gets along well with. Will their friendship blossom further? He has a wonderful presence in the story: a real white knight in many ways.
The Fleury women are strong independent ladies who inherit some unique and valuable jewellery. These pieces are passed down through the generations. Rose has a necklace her grandmother gave her but discovers when it is in for repairs, it is a fake! This sets her on a mission to see what became of the original piece. What she discovers is unexpected and this part of the plot was fun and intriguing. For when she eventually unravels the mystery, she learns of another family that is connected to the Fleury’s and the jewellery. This search will test Noel’s and Rose’s friendship and expose some surprising secrets and hidden passions.
I loved the exploration of the Manor archives and as Noel says, it was like ‘like stepping into a time machine’ going through old photos and other pieces of heritage items. I enjoy the history that is always present in Susanne’s stories and how it affects the present. I also was delighted to see some familiar faces from Book 1 like Lily and Sylvia. And the old Magnolia Manor itself is a fine character with new development.
I had no sense of time while reading The Granddaughter’s Irish Secret. I became completely lost in the story. The gentle romance, the second chances, the family secrets and dramas, the mystery and history and wonderful characters made this an uplifting and exciting read. Loved, loved, loved it! Highly recommend this heart-warming and memorable novel! 5 Stars
Thanks to Bookouture and Netgalley for the ARC.
June 8, 2024
Rose Fleury has a major breakup with her boyfriend and is need of a fresh start. She leaves her job and everything behind in Dublin and returns home. Her grandmother Sylvia offers Rose the gatehouse at Magnolia Manor so she has a place to stay. She welcomes the offer so that she can get back on her feet. Rose is invited to the wedding of a friend. She holds in her possession a beautiful family heirloom topaz necklace. She takes the priceless necklace to be cleaned for the wedding. She wants its true beauty to be seen. But, when she picks it up from being cleaned she is devastated to discover that it is a fake. She can’t bear to tell her grandmother the truth about the necklace, so she asks Noel Quinn to help her find the real necklace. When the trail to the real gem leads to a local family, the truth begins to surface and it could tear apart everything she loves about her past.
The Granddaughter’s Irish Secret written by author Susanne O’Leary is a beautifully written story. It is filled with intrigue, heart-warming romance and historical mystery. I loved this fast-paced story that kept my interest from cover to cover. The author is amazing and her detailed description of Ireland and it makes me want to travel. I loved everything about this story especially Rose and Sylvia. I loved how Rose wanted to do everything she could to protect her grandmother from the heartbreaking truth about the necklace. This is the second installment in the Magnolia Manor series but it can be read as a standalone. I am loving this series and I highly recommend it.
The Granddaughter’s Irish Secret written by author Susanne O’Leary is a beautifully written story. It is filled with intrigue, heart-warming romance and historical mystery. I loved this fast-paced story that kept my interest from cover to cover. The author is amazing and her detailed description of Ireland and it makes me want to travel. I loved everything about this story especially Rose and Sylvia. I loved how Rose wanted to do everything she could to protect her grandmother from the heartbreaking truth about the necklace. This is the second installment in the Magnolia Manor series but it can be read as a standalone. I am loving this series and I highly recommend it.
April 18, 2025
The Granddaughter's Irish Secret #2 Magnolia Manor
4✨
4✨
May 31, 2024
It was nice to return to Magnolia Manor. It was like visiting old friends ;)
This is the second book in the series. I do believe it can be read as a standalone. Though, if you are like me, I like to start from book 1 in a series.
The story is about a family heirloom necklace that is passed down. Main character, Rose, discovers something about the necklace that sends her on a mission.
There is friendship turning into romance. Though the romance is somewhat mild, it is there.
Each characters is loveable in their own way.
I love the setting of a little village in Ireland.
The mystery element was intriguing.
Thanks to NetGalley, Bookouture and the author for the opportunity to read this book for my honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.
@shortbookthyme
#shortbookthyme
This is the second book in the series. I do believe it can be read as a standalone. Though, if you are like me, I like to start from book 1 in a series.
The story is about a family heirloom necklace that is passed down. Main character, Rose, discovers something about the necklace that sends her on a mission.
There is friendship turning into romance. Though the romance is somewhat mild, it is there.
Each characters is loveable in their own way.
I love the setting of a little village in Ireland.
The mystery element was intriguing.
Thanks to NetGalley, Bookouture and the author for the opportunity to read this book for my honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.
@shortbookthyme
#shortbookthyme
June 8, 2024
The Granddaughter’s Irish Secret by Susanne O’Leary is the novel which ties together many of the dangling threads of the previous novel. Rose Fleury has returned home to nurse a broken heart, mostly. She had been unceremoniously dumped by her live-in boyfriend of four years, also one of her bosses, several layers removed. Now she was here to oversee the completion of the ancestral home into the senior apartments that were her grandmother’s dream. Along with her many other duties, she vowed to plow through the family documents and treasures found in the attic of the home. Her grandmother had distributed many of the family jewels earlier and so on her way home she dropped her heirloom necklace off to be cleaned. She was shocked when several weeks later they notified her it was ready and enquired if she knew it was a copy. She was shocked, and more determined than even to root out the family secrets.
Rose is joined in her search by the family lawyer, a young man named Noel. He had the same love of history she had so they both enjoyed themselves. They were able to track down some interesting information and did so while falling in love. The story was simple and to the point. Sylvia, Rose’s grandmother was in love and so happy that she wasn’t interested in the dark past. If you are looking for a pleasant afternoon, this is your bet. If you are looking for depth, look elsewhere.
I was invited to read The Granddaughter’s Irish Secret by Bookoutre. All thoughts and opinions are mine. #Netgalley #Bookoutre #SusanneOLeary #TheGrandaughtersIrishSecret
Rose is joined in her search by the family lawyer, a young man named Noel. He had the same love of history she had so they both enjoyed themselves. They were able to track down some interesting information and did so while falling in love. The story was simple and to the point. Sylvia, Rose’s grandmother was in love and so happy that she wasn’t interested in the dark past. If you are looking for a pleasant afternoon, this is your bet. If you are looking for depth, look elsewhere.
I was invited to read The Granddaughter’s Irish Secret by Bookoutre. All thoughts and opinions are mine. #Netgalley #Bookoutre #SusanneOLeary #TheGrandaughtersIrishSecret
June 4, 2024
I thought this was a good addition to this series. It had a nice mystery revolving around a necklace. Some family history is revealed and new romance is found.
It’s a nice story, a perfect easy to read beach read.
It’s a nice story, a perfect easy to read beach read.
August 11, 2024
This was a quick read and as the 2nd book in the series, I thoroughly enjoyed reading about the 2nd sister. The story progressed with the construction on Magnolia Manor and of course, included another budding romance. I know there is one more sister so there must be one more book. It will be out in December of 2024! Can’t wait!
June 7, 2024
After having her heart broken, Rose Fleury is offered a lifeline by her Granny, Sylvia. Come and work on the Magnolia House project and take time away to recover.
With her sister, Lily, now having a baby, Rose can’t refuse. Being back at Magnolia House brings back many memories from her childhood.
With her friend getting married, Rose needs a plus one. When Lily suggests Noel, Lily’s old boss, she calls on him to ask for his support.
I was so pleased to be back at Magnolia House, and to be amongst the characters again.
A lovely tale with lots of memories from years gone by, as well as up-to-date dealings going on with the big project for Magnolia House.
An entertaining and enjoyable read, that kept me engrossed to the very end.
My thanks to Bookouture and NetGalley for a copy in exchange for my honest review.
With her sister, Lily, now having a baby, Rose can’t refuse. Being back at Magnolia House brings back many memories from her childhood.
With her friend getting married, Rose needs a plus one. When Lily suggests Noel, Lily’s old boss, she calls on him to ask for his support.
I was so pleased to be back at Magnolia House, and to be amongst the characters again.
A lovely tale with lots of memories from years gone by, as well as up-to-date dealings going on with the big project for Magnolia House.
An entertaining and enjoyable read, that kept me engrossed to the very end.
My thanks to Bookouture and NetGalley for a copy in exchange for my honest review.
March 29, 2025
The Granddaughter's Irish Secret is the second book in the Magnolia Manor series. When Rose Fleury's partner for the past five years tells her he is moving to the US without her, she is embarrassed. She quits her job in Dublin and moves to Magnolia Manor to oversee the renovations of the house into senior apartments. Sylvia, her grandmother, reminds her the Fleury women are strong and resilient. She has a wedding to attend, so invites family friend and local lawyer, Noel Quinn. She plans to wear the topaz necklace her grandmother gave her, a family heirloom that has been in the family for over 100 years. When she picks it up from being cleaned she is informed that it is a copy. She wants to find out what happened to the original, so Noel agrees to help her. Using diaries, photos and recollections from the oldest residents, she has a lead. Spending time with Noel, gives Rose the chance to see him in a different light, and he is oh so different from her previous beau. Will they find the necklace? Will their relationship become more than just friends?
The title of this book is perfect. Rose doesn't want to break her grandmother's heart, so keeps what she learns about the necklace a secret until she learns more. But there are other secrets in this story, of forbidden love and family ties. I liked Rose, but there were things that bothered me as well. It has been a short time since she was broken hearted, yet she is already interested in someone new, a bit fickle for me. I love that she doesn't want to hurt her grandmother, that she is working hard to solve the mystery, but also get the museum up and running. She is stronger than she realizes, and doesn't give up on life. I enjoyed the mystery and how Rose and Noel went about solving it. The family connections are strong and I liked seeing Sylvia happy in her new romance from the first book. These books have a great setting, interesting characters and fun storylines. I am looking forward to the next book in the series, which will be Violet's story. I listened to this book, narrated by Aoife McMahon. She makes these stories easy to listen to with great voices, tone and pacing.
The title of this book is perfect. Rose doesn't want to break her grandmother's heart, so keeps what she learns about the necklace a secret until she learns more. But there are other secrets in this story, of forbidden love and family ties. I liked Rose, but there were things that bothered me as well. It has been a short time since she was broken hearted, yet she is already interested in someone new, a bit fickle for me. I love that she doesn't want to hurt her grandmother, that she is working hard to solve the mystery, but also get the museum up and running. She is stronger than she realizes, and doesn't give up on life. I enjoyed the mystery and how Rose and Noel went about solving it. The family connections are strong and I liked seeing Sylvia happy in her new romance from the first book. These books have a great setting, interesting characters and fun storylines. I am looking forward to the next book in the series, which will be Violet's story. I listened to this book, narrated by Aoife McMahon. She makes these stories easy to listen to with great voices, tone and pacing.
June 16, 2024
Thank you NetGalley and Bookouture for the opportunity to read "The Granddaughter's Irish Secret" in exchange for my honest opinion.
This was the second book in the Magnolia Manor series and a wonderful chance to learn more about the characters. Rose Fleury has returned home to Dingle from Dublin where she has left her job after her boyfriend (and boss) Gavin Lynch has dumped her and took a job in New York.
Rose has a wedding invite to a former coworkers wedding in Killarney. She asks the family lawyer Noel to be her 'plus one' and finds that she has a wonderful time with him. She comes to value their friendship and when she's in trouble, he's the first person to come to her rescue.
Rose finally gets the apology from Henri that the reader has been waiting for from book one. Henri's father and Rose's grandmother are quite the item. They're all working together to turn the Magnolia Manor into Senior Apartments. Rose's sister Lily has grand plans for the garden, which will be open not only to the residents but the people in town as well.
There is a mystery in this story relating to the necklace that was given to Rose by her grandmother. Each of the Fleury girls have been given a piece of jewelry that has been handed down in the family. If it's one of a kind, why has another necklace that looks exactly like Rose's been seen. Rose becomes obsessed with finding this other necklace to the exclusion of everything else that she has going on. She learns about Iseult, a mysterious family member that no one has spoken about but there are photos of her in old albums. And there might be a connection between Noel and this mystery woman.
This was a wonderful story, with beautiful descriptions of the Irish countryside that makes the reader feel as if they are standing there experiencing it as well. Hopefully there will be many more stories to share in this heartwarming series.
This was the second book in the Magnolia Manor series and a wonderful chance to learn more about the characters. Rose Fleury has returned home to Dingle from Dublin where she has left her job after her boyfriend (and boss) Gavin Lynch has dumped her and took a job in New York.
Rose has a wedding invite to a former coworkers wedding in Killarney. She asks the family lawyer Noel to be her 'plus one' and finds that she has a wonderful time with him. She comes to value their friendship and when she's in trouble, he's the first person to come to her rescue.
Rose finally gets the apology from Henri that the reader has been waiting for from book one. Henri's father and Rose's grandmother are quite the item. They're all working together to turn the Magnolia Manor into Senior Apartments. Rose's sister Lily has grand plans for the garden, which will be open not only to the residents but the people in town as well.
There is a mystery in this story relating to the necklace that was given to Rose by her grandmother. Each of the Fleury girls have been given a piece of jewelry that has been handed down in the family. If it's one of a kind, why has another necklace that looks exactly like Rose's been seen. Rose becomes obsessed with finding this other necklace to the exclusion of everything else that she has going on. She learns about Iseult, a mysterious family member that no one has spoken about but there are photos of her in old albums. And there might be a connection between Noel and this mystery woman.
This was a wonderful story, with beautiful descriptions of the Irish countryside that makes the reader feel as if they are standing there experiencing it as well. Hopefully there will be many more stories to share in this heartwarming series.
June 8, 2024
Thank you NetGalley and Bookouture for an ARC of this endearing family saga set in Ireland. The beautiful landscape of the Dingle Peninsula in County Kerry makes a fine backdrop to a tale of romance, secrets and heirloom jewellery. #thegranddaughtersirishsecret is the second book in the #MagnoliaManor series, but it works well as a stand-alone. Rose had a great job and a boyfriend she thought was ‘the one.’ When it all falls apart she takes her broken heart home to Magnolia Manor, where under the guidance of her grandmother Sylvia she project manages the Manor’s conversion into senior apartments. Enter not one but two rich and charming Frenchmen and an understanding local lawyer. Gradually the mystery of the topaz necklace is revealed, by a trawl through old photos and family documents. If you enjoy gentle romances with a wealth of engaging detail and a dash of history, this is for you.
'Rose places her hand protectively on her grandmother’s necklace and looks up at Magnolia Manor’s vine-covered walls. The jewels are her most precious possession, but she is terrified to tell her family the truth about where they really come from…
Standing in the doorway of her grandmother Sylvia’s home, Rose Fleury thought returning here was the answer to all of her problems. She has no job and a broken heart, but Sylvia reminds her that Fleury women of the past were strong and independent, and she can be too. Clutching a family heirloom – a beautiful topaz necklace – Rose promises to be brave like her relatives. Until she finds out that the jewels hide a terrible secret…'
'Rose places her hand protectively on her grandmother’s necklace and looks up at Magnolia Manor’s vine-covered walls. The jewels are her most precious possession, but she is terrified to tell her family the truth about where they really come from…
Standing in the doorway of her grandmother Sylvia’s home, Rose Fleury thought returning here was the answer to all of her problems. She has no job and a broken heart, but Sylvia reminds her that Fleury women of the past were strong and independent, and she can be too. Clutching a family heirloom – a beautiful topaz necklace – Rose promises to be brave like her relatives. Until she finds out that the jewels hide a terrible secret…'
June 10, 2024
Rose Fleury has just been dumped by her partner. Heartbroken, she headed to Magnolia Manor. It was once a majestic family home, but now is being turned into a senior living facility. When Rose’s grandmother Sylvia mentions that they need someone that has a bit of knowledge with marketing and real estate to oversee the conversion project, Rose thinks that this would be the perfect job, proving ideal so that she can get over her heartbreak.
Rose soon has more on her plate. Invited to a wedding, and gifted a beautiful necklace, Rose soon finds herself immersed in enchanting family history. After discovering something about the heirloom necklace she is excited to wear at the upcoming wedding, Rose is determined to discover what happened to the necklace over the years.
Magnolia Manor seems like rather an idyllic place to live. I love that Rose has had the opportunity to not only start over, but to learn more about her family’s past, all while being surprised at finding true love.
Susanne O’Leary never disappoints. This second book in the Magnolia Manor series is just as enchanting as the first book was. Although these books can be read as standalone novels, the stories are so lovely, as well as the mysterious elements, also how each sister—Lily in the first book, The Keeper of the Irish Secret, and this lovely story about Rose—then I would definitely recommend reading each book in the series.
Many thanks to Bookouture and to NetGalley for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.
Rose soon has more on her plate. Invited to a wedding, and gifted a beautiful necklace, Rose soon finds herself immersed in enchanting family history. After discovering something about the heirloom necklace she is excited to wear at the upcoming wedding, Rose is determined to discover what happened to the necklace over the years.
Magnolia Manor seems like rather an idyllic place to live. I love that Rose has had the opportunity to not only start over, but to learn more about her family’s past, all while being surprised at finding true love.
Susanne O’Leary never disappoints. This second book in the Magnolia Manor series is just as enchanting as the first book was. Although these books can be read as standalone novels, the stories are so lovely, as well as the mysterious elements, also how each sister—Lily in the first book, The Keeper of the Irish Secret, and this lovely story about Rose—then I would definitely recommend reading each book in the series.
Many thanks to Bookouture and to NetGalley for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.
June 8, 2024
This was a lovely follow-up to the prior book in the series. The characters are well-written and held my interest. The story was wonderful. This may be the last in the series but I hope not! I strongly recommend this book but advise you to read the books in order.
Amazon synopsis:
Standing in the doorway of her grandmother Sylvia’s home, Rose Fleury thought returning here was the answer to all of her problems. She has no job and a broken heart, but Sylvia reminds her that Fleury women of the past were strong and independent, and she can be too. Clutching a family heirloom – a beautiful topaz necklace – Rose promises to be brave like her relatives. Until she finds out that the jewels hide a terrible secret…
Someone in town is claiming the necklace is fake. Rose knows Sylvia will be devastated by this news, and it could shatter their family’s reputation. For the sake of her grandmother, Rose is determined to find the real necklace and discover why it was replaced – and quickly convinces handsome local lawyer Noel Quinn to join her. Though Noel’s broad shoulders in his suit and tie remind Rose of her ex-boyfriend, he seems just as fascinated by the mystery, and she finds her heart fluttering every time he catches her eye…
But when Rose traces the real necklace to another family, and another ancestral home in a nearby village, she’s shocked to discover a forbidden love that once tore her family apart – and that Noel is connected to it.
Amazon synopsis:
Standing in the doorway of her grandmother Sylvia’s home, Rose Fleury thought returning here was the answer to all of her problems. She has no job and a broken heart, but Sylvia reminds her that Fleury women of the past were strong and independent, and she can be too. Clutching a family heirloom – a beautiful topaz necklace – Rose promises to be brave like her relatives. Until she finds out that the jewels hide a terrible secret…
Someone in town is claiming the necklace is fake. Rose knows Sylvia will be devastated by this news, and it could shatter their family’s reputation. For the sake of her grandmother, Rose is determined to find the real necklace and discover why it was replaced – and quickly convinces handsome local lawyer Noel Quinn to join her. Though Noel’s broad shoulders in his suit and tie remind Rose of her ex-boyfriend, he seems just as fascinated by the mystery, and she finds her heart fluttering every time he catches her eye…
But when Rose traces the real necklace to another family, and another ancestral home in a nearby village, she’s shocked to discover a forbidden love that once tore her family apart – and that Noel is connected to it.
May 19, 2025
Sylvia had given Lily and Rose each an heirloom necklace to wear to the opening of the apartments. They had been passed down over centuries. When the woman who had the necklace died or left the family, the necklace was returned to the family. This time, Sylvia told the girls to pass them down within the family instead of returning them to the family as the family would no longer be at the manor.
After the opening, Rose had her topaz necklace cleaned before storing away. Unfortunately, the jeweler had to tell her that the necklace was fake. However, the fake was done in 1888. In checking who might have had the necklace, Rose found out that her great-grandfather had a sister who was never mentioned by the family. Nothing was known about her after she ran away, taking her jewelry with her.
With the help of lawyer Noah Quinn, Rose sets out to find the necklace and her great aunt Insula. Can they find someone who didn't want to be found when they were alive, much less now that they were dead?
After the opening, Rose had her topaz necklace cleaned before storing away. Unfortunately, the jeweler had to tell her that the necklace was fake. However, the fake was done in 1888. In checking who might have had the necklace, Rose found out that her great-grandfather had a sister who was never mentioned by the family. Nothing was known about her after she ran away, taking her jewelry with her.
With the help of lawyer Noah Quinn, Rose sets out to find the necklace and her great aunt Insula. Can they find someone who didn't want to be found when they were alive, much less now that they were dead?
June 5, 2024
The Granddaughter's Irish Secret is the second book in the Magnolia Manor Series by Susanne O'Leary. It is a continued family saga of strong wise women who take the initiative to find the truth surrounding heirloom jewelry. There is also a wonderful romance taking place in the story too.
A grand story reminding each of us that while the task may seem insurmountable, we can take the next step and the next step until all is accomplished. All the way answers will be found and new love can perhaps be found too.
While I have read the first one, I think that readers can fall in love with The Granddaughter's Irish Secret without having done so. Still Sylvia’s story and her home is a wonderful start to the series, so be sure to check out Keeper of the Irish Secret, book one in the Magnolia Manor Series.
A grand story reminding each of us that while the task may seem insurmountable, we can take the next step and the next step until all is accomplished. All the way answers will be found and new love can perhaps be found too.
While I have read the first one, I think that readers can fall in love with The Granddaughter's Irish Secret without having done so. Still Sylvia’s story and her home is a wonderful start to the series, so be sure to check out Keeper of the Irish Secret, book one in the Magnolia Manor Series.
July 29, 2024
After reading Book 1, The Keeper of the Irish Secret, I knew I would continue on with the series. I really enjoy books based in Ireland or Scotland.
The Granddaughter's Irish Secret follows another of Sylvia's granddaughters. This time Rose is in the spotlight. Digging up old family secrets to try and find out what happened to her necklace, handed down for many generations, after she finds out that it is not the real one but a replica! If you remember Noel from The Keeper of the Irish Secret he is back and in a big way! What a sweet man he is. So many other things happen in this one I can't list them all or there would be no point to reading it. Just know that if you pick it up it will be worth it!
Thank you to NetGalley, Bookouture, and Susanne O'Leary for the opportunity to read this book and provide an honest review.
The Granddaughter's Irish Secret follows another of Sylvia's granddaughters. This time Rose is in the spotlight. Digging up old family secrets to try and find out what happened to her necklace, handed down for many generations, after she finds out that it is not the real one but a replica! If you remember Noel from The Keeper of the Irish Secret he is back and in a big way! What a sweet man he is. So many other things happen in this one I can't list them all or there would be no point to reading it. Just know that if you pick it up it will be worth it!
Thank you to NetGalley, Bookouture, and Susanne O'Leary for the opportunity to read this book and provide an honest review.
May 27, 2024
Number two in the Magnolia Manor series and like the first this is a grand gentle with characters that I'll be thinking about for some time to come. At times predictable and all the more lovely because of it, we find ourselves back in the Manor, this to time hearing Rose’s story. As she leaves Dublin brokenhearted and jobless to return to the hug that is her childhood home, life will change completely for her as she uncovers secrets and learns a lot not only about her family’s past but about herself too.
Read in one sitting, this is the perfect holiday read.
I'm so looking forward to our next visit to catch up with these characters who now feel like friends.
Read in one sitting, this is the perfect holiday read.
I'm so looking forward to our next visit to catch up with these characters who now feel like friends.
June 20, 2025
Travel Bucket list unlocked. I've traveled to Ireland several times but never got to spend much time on the West Coast and have wanted to visit Dingle and Sligo and this story was so vivid in the descriptions that I think we need a road trip in that area. This was a sweet story with a little mystery and a little bit of "who will she end up with?" storylines. Strong Irish women and the men who love them is how I'd describe this author's stories and while not racy or super dramatic, they make for good reading and palate cleansers between darker romance and thrillers. I quite enjoyed it and look forward to the next Magnolia Manor story.
June 7, 2024
An enjoyable read that left me smiling. This is a story of strong women, of family, and of secrets. The Irish setting transported me to a place I didn't want to leave. Rose is reeling after being left by her boyfriend. She returns to the family home and discovers that a family necklace entrusted to her is a fake. Can she figure out what happened to the real necklace before her family finds out? Searching through the family past she finds more than she expected. What does this mean for her future?
Thanks to NetGalley and Bookouture for providing a copy for my honest review.
Thanks to NetGalley and Bookouture for providing a copy for my honest review.
June 9, 2024
The Granddaughter’s Irish Secret is a quick and entertaining read. The setting of Magnolia Manor is delightful. All the characters are enjoyable. Their interactions are charming and often humorous. There is a mystery that takes place alongside a budding romance and both storylines kept me engaged. I was really surprised by the little twist of the mystery and I loved the way it connected the message of family bonds and female strength that are throughout the book beautifully.
June 10, 2024
Another Great story
Susanne, you never disappoint. All of your books are great and you make the characters memorable. The places you describe are just as you write. Kerry is a beautiful county and the ride from Kennard to Kinsale is absolutely beautiful if you follow R600 you will see some amazing views. Thank for all your wonderful books.
Susanne, you never disappoint. All of your books are great and you make the characters memorable. The places you describe are just as you write. Kerry is a beautiful county and the ride from Kennard to Kinsale is absolutely beautiful if you follow R600 you will see some amazing views. Thank for all your wonderful books.
June 21, 2024
Fast read
Enjoyed the story with a bit of mystery, treasure hunt and romance mixed in. Could easily imagine the manors, gardens, ocean lookouts, eats and community activities. Look forward to reading more of O'Leary's books.
Enjoyed the story with a bit of mystery, treasure hunt and romance mixed in. Could easily imagine the manors, gardens, ocean lookouts, eats and community activities. Look forward to reading more of O'Leary's books.
July 15, 2024
Another great story by this author I have loved all of her books and this one doesn't disappoint. Set in Magnolia Manor the story is full of great characters, a good storyline and enough intrigue and mystery to keep you turning the pages. Definitely one I recommend for you summer reading list.
August 17, 2024
Perfect Secret
This story moved along very nicely with new information falling into place. I loved how the main secret led to other secrets that helped find the answers to the main secret.
This story moved along very nicely with new information falling into place. I loved how the main secret led to other secrets that helped find the answers to the main secret.
September 3, 2024
Granddaughters
Great twist at the end great story great characters this kindle must be seasick as its up and down constantly as I was wanting to know what was going to happen even if i had to put it down for a second loved it a well deserved 5 stars
Great twist at the end great story great characters this kindle must be seasick as its up and down constantly as I was wanting to know what was going to happen even if i had to put it down for a second loved it a well deserved 5 stars
January 31, 2025
Uplifting and heartwarming, the second book of the Magnolia Manor series where Rose, the second granddaughter finds her back to the family home. Curl up with a cozy blanket and enjoy as the some more mystery begins to unfold about the family.
October 28, 2025
A gem!
What a gem of a story! Loved the characters especially feisty Sylvia! Intriguing and mysterious with family drama and great history! Love the setting of the story! Another great read!
What a gem of a story! Loved the characters especially feisty Sylvia! Intriguing and mysterious with family drama and great history! Love the setting of the story! Another great read!
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