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His Ringsend Rose
“Let’s see if you can keep up, Irishman.”
After a tragic assault as a teenager, Norah Grady doesn’t talk to men, let alone challenge them to a drinking contest. She especially doesn’t challenge the hot Irish soccer player to a Guinness drinking contest.
Until she does.
Finding herself as the object of Eamon Kennedy’s attention isn’t nearly as upsetting as she thought it would be. In fact, the more time she spends with him, the more she steps out of her comfort zone.
He might just be the one to help her heal.
Eamon Kennedy left Ireland after his fiance betrayed him. When UNCW offered him a spot on their soccer team, he jumped at the chance. After having his heart broken, he has zero intentions of falling in love again.
Until he does.
A routine night at O’Nelly’s Pub turns interesting when a red-haired beauty challenges him to a drinking contest. Now he can’t stop thinking about her. With a little meddling from Paddy, the pub owner, the two are forced into close proximity.
This lass might be the one to change his mind on love.
After a tragic assault as a teenager, Norah Grady doesn’t talk to men, let alone challenge them to a drinking contest. She especially doesn’t challenge the hot Irish soccer player to a Guinness drinking contest.
Until she does.
Finding herself as the object of Eamon Kennedy’s attention isn’t nearly as upsetting as she thought it would be. In fact, the more time she spends with him, the more she steps out of her comfort zone.
He might just be the one to help her heal.
Eamon Kennedy left Ireland after his fiance betrayed him. When UNCW offered him a spot on their soccer team, he jumped at the chance. After having his heart broken, he has zero intentions of falling in love again.
Until he does.
A routine night at O’Nelly’s Pub turns interesting when a red-haired beauty challenges him to a drinking contest. Now he can’t stop thinking about her. With a little meddling from Paddy, the pub owner, the two are forced into close proximity.
This lass might be the one to change his mind on love.
352 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 31, 2024
32 people are currently reading
164 people want to read
About the author
L. Ballew
3 books18 followersL. Ballew is a long-time reader with an affinity for the romance genre. When the idea for her debut novel, His Ringsend Rose, came to her she couldn’t stop writing once the floodgates opened. Determined never to let anyone read her words, she kept the first half of the novel hidden away until a few of her friends demanded to read what she’d written. After receiving positive feedback, she was encouraged to finish the book and share her story with the rest of the romance-loving community. Now she spends her time writing new stories, and when she’s not writing, you can find her reading and drinking coffee while being surrounded by her husband, two kids, and a ridiculous amount of animals.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 49 reviews
July 9, 2024
This is a great debut novel for this new author! This book was sweet and cozy while also addressing delicate/sensitive issues. Our FMC has some trauma that our MMC patiently helps her with. There’s a good mix of dark with light which is rare in books.
I loved all the Irish slang and the characters were super sweet. There was some fluff in there and I really enjoyed the found family aspect. I wish we dug more into the side characters but it sounds like some of the side characters will get their own books soon!
Please check your trigger warning and enjoy!
I loved all the Irish slang and the characters were super sweet. There was some fluff in there and I really enjoyed the found family aspect. I wish we dug more into the side characters but it sounds like some of the side characters will get their own books soon!
Please check your trigger warning and enjoy!
September 5, 2024
If you are in the mood for a cozy sports romance with a side of hunky Irishmen then this is the book for you.
Norah Grady doesn’t do romance or men to be honest. Their is only room in her heart for costume design and Ireland. So when she finds herself defending her honor in a drinking match with the easy on the eyes Eamon Kennedy she wonders how exactly she got there.
Eamon has a way of getting Norah to let her guard down, and the way he understands her trauma and takes his time is so incredibly sweet. It doesn’t hurt that not only is he Irish, but he’s also a soccer player and sometimes in a band.
Watching their relationship develop and how they overcome obstacles was just perfect.
Norah Grady doesn’t do romance or men to be honest. Their is only room in her heart for costume design and Ireland. So when she finds herself defending her honor in a drinking match with the easy on the eyes Eamon Kennedy she wonders how exactly she got there.
Eamon has a way of getting Norah to let her guard down, and the way he understands her trauma and takes his time is so incredibly sweet. It doesn’t hurt that not only is he Irish, but he’s also a soccer player and sometimes in a band.
Watching their relationship develop and how they overcome obstacles was just perfect.
August 1, 2024
This is a great debut! It's a relatable story with fun characters and side characters I want to know better. I want more books. A college love story, with a meet cute, a little insta love, found family, and all the elements I love in a small town, especially the meddling. Plenty of witty banter, from big personalities. Plus Irish, men a guide to their slang! There is some trauma, check the triggers, if needed.
I am looking forward to more for this author. I will need more from this world.
Thank you to the Author for the advanced copy; this is my voluntary review.
I am looking forward to more for this author. I will need more from this world.
Thank you to the Author for the advanced copy; this is my voluntary review.
May 6, 2024
An outstanding debut!
A cozy and beautiful story about healing, taking chances, and love. This book is a must for all lovers of romcoms, meet cutes, hunky Irish men, and healing from trauma. I think what makes this book special is similar to what makes the Twisted series so special—the friendships, found family, and lead up to interconnected love stories. It truly is such a well-rounded and wonderful story that I think any contemporary romance lover will adore!!!
A cozy and beautiful story about healing, taking chances, and love. This book is a must for all lovers of romcoms, meet cutes, hunky Irish men, and healing from trauma. I think what makes this book special is similar to what makes the Twisted series so special—the friendships, found family, and lead up to interconnected love stories. It truly is such a well-rounded and wonderful story that I think any contemporary romance lover will adore!!!
June 22, 2024
I truly do not believe better characters have ever been written 😍 Eamon and Norah are perfect, for each other and as characters. This book was such a good read full of banter, wonderful and loving characters, and such an amazing story.
This is the first Irish romance I’ve ever read (and now that I’ve read one, I’m hooked!) and it went above and beyond my expectations. A wonderful, beautiful, and deep read full of love, trauma, healing, and finding family and peace. So many amazing tropes wrapped into a single book, and written WONDERFULLY!
L. Ballew, you have OUTDONE yourself! I cannot wait for the rest of the series and will continue to binge Norah and Eamon’s story until they arrive 😉
This is the first Irish romance I’ve ever read (and now that I’ve read one, I’m hooked!) and it went above and beyond my expectations. A wonderful, beautiful, and deep read full of love, trauma, healing, and finding family and peace. So many amazing tropes wrapped into a single book, and written WONDERFULLY!
L. Ballew, you have OUTDONE yourself! I cannot wait for the rest of the series and will continue to binge Norah and Eamon’s story until they arrive 😉
July 2, 2024
I'm typically apprehensive of insta-love stories but god does it make so much sense for Norah and Eamon. I had such a fun time reading this book. I loved the banter and the whole dealing with trauma i cant for the next one
January 20, 2025
His Ringsend Rose by L. Ballew is an impressive debut that brings a fresh and engaging perspective to the romance genre. The story follows the blossoming romance between two dynamic and well-drawn characters, whose chemistry is undeniable. Ballew’s writing sparkles with wit, warmth, and emotional depth, making this novel an enjoyable and satisfying read from start to finish.
One of the book’s standout features is the lively and authentic character interaction. The dialogue is sharp and engaging, capturing the quirks, humor, and tenderness that define the relationship between the leads. There’s a beautiful balance between lighthearted banter and heartfelt moments, which makes their journey feel both real and relatable. The character development is impressive, with each person feeling fully realized, complex, and easy to root for.
The romance is, at its core, sweet and heartwarming, with just the right amount of tension to keep readers invested in the couple’s growing connection. The chemistry between the leads feels effortless, and their evolving relationship is both touching and fun to watch unfold.
What truly makes His Ringsend Rose stand out is how well Ballew crafts the emotional moments amidst the fun, lighthearted tone. It's a perfect blend of humor, romance, and just the right amount of drama. It’s clear that Ballew has a knack for writing characters that feel authentic, and the dynamic between them elevates the book to something more than just a typical romance novel.
In short, His Ringsend Rose is a delightful, feel-good read that will leave you with a smile on your face. L. Ballew’s debut shows immense promise, and fans of contemporary romance are sure to find this a memorable and enjoyable book. If you're looking for a fun, heartfelt story with great character interactions and an irresistible romance, this book is definitely worth picking up.
October 9, 2024
L. Ballew did that, Ladies and Gents! One of my fave books this year so far!
June 22, 2024
•My cheeks were actually sore from smiling while reading this debut novel. The author creates such a feeling of comfort between the pages of her book. Between the MMC’s tight knit friend groups, to the pub and its meddling owner, to the feeling of safety Eamon provides Norah—it’s like being wrapped in a warm hug the entire time you read.
•The witty banter is top notch with each character adding their own flavor of personality that really stands out.
•The triggering topics thats were covered were handled delicately and sensitively
•I love how future interconnected books were hinted at, woven in, and setup. I was left not only obsessed with our Norah and Eamon, but I was dying to know about the future of other couples too!
This is definitely a debut author to look out for! This Love On Tap book is a fun, spicy read for lovers of:
*sports romances (Irish soccer players?!)
*slow burns
*dual pov
*healing from past trauma
*found family
*college romance
•The witty banter is top notch with each character adding their own flavor of personality that really stands out.
•The triggering topics thats were covered were handled delicately and sensitively
•I love how future interconnected books were hinted at, woven in, and setup. I was left not only obsessed with our Norah and Eamon, but I was dying to know about the future of other couples too!
This is definitely a debut author to look out for! This Love On Tap book is a fun, spicy read for lovers of:
*sports romances (Irish soccer players?!)
*slow burns
*dual pov
*healing from past trauma
*found family
*college romance
July 7, 2025
''Of course I want you. I need you. I need you like I need air to breathe. You are the air I breathe.''
I have a lot to say about this book because I either half disliked it or lowkey loved it even though I’m giving it 4 full stars⭐⭐⭐⭐
First of all, I love Eamon and Norrie’s relationship. I really do. But when Eamon messed up, he should’ve groveled way more. The girl took him back after a half-hearted apology, and then he proposed and she was just like, “Oh, Eamon, YES!” Meanwhile, I was sitting there debating whether to keep reading or throw the book across the room😐
Same goes for one of her besties, Myra. Like, yeah, she was going through it she found out she was pregnant by some immature football player but still. That doesn’t justify the way she treated Norrie. Girl, that’s your best friend. How could you throw her trauma in her face like it was nothing? Seriously, fack all the way off😒
The book also spends a lot of time on side characters. I get that they’re going to be in future books, and that’s cool, but I wanted more of Norrie and Eamon. The last 50–60 pages dragged😭The epilogue was fine, but honestly, I wanted to skip through most of the book because there was so much details for nothing I'm sorry but like too much😭
That said, I’m still giving it 4 stars (even after this negative review because I am a sucker for those IRISH MEN OKAY DONT JUDGE😩😭)because I genuinely loved how Eamon and Norrie’s relationship was built. Eamon is a freakin gentleman even after learning about Norrie’s past 🥹Yes, he messed up, but still. I also adored Teagan and Layla, so I cannot wait to dive into the next book in the series🤩
I have a lot to say about this book because I either half disliked it or lowkey loved it even though I’m giving it 4 full stars⭐⭐⭐⭐
First of all, I love Eamon and Norrie’s relationship. I really do. But when Eamon messed up, he should’ve groveled way more. The girl took him back after a half-hearted apology, and then he proposed and she was just like, “Oh, Eamon, YES!” Meanwhile, I was sitting there debating whether to keep reading or throw the book across the room😐
Same goes for one of her besties, Myra. Like, yeah, she was going through it she found out she was pregnant by some immature football player but still. That doesn’t justify the way she treated Norrie. Girl, that’s your best friend. How could you throw her trauma in her face like it was nothing? Seriously, fack all the way off😒
The book also spends a lot of time on side characters. I get that they’re going to be in future books, and that’s cool, but I wanted more of Norrie and Eamon. The last 50–60 pages dragged😭The epilogue was fine, but honestly, I wanted to skip through most of the book because there was so much details for nothing I'm sorry but like too much😭
That said, I’m still giving it 4 stars (even after this negative review because I am a sucker for those IRISH MEN OKAY DONT JUDGE😩😭)because I genuinely loved how Eamon and Norrie’s relationship was built. Eamon is a freakin gentleman even after learning about Norrie’s past 🥹Yes, he messed up, but still. I also adored Teagan and Layla, so I cannot wait to dive into the next book in the series🤩
April 7, 2025
I was an ARC reader for this book and am giving my honest review.
⭐️ rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
3 words/phrases to describe: sports romance, found family, shy FMC/touch her and die MMC
✨synopsis: after experiencing trauma, Norah hasn’t dated. She’d moved to North Carolina for school after her mom passed away and found a refuge in a local Irish pub which reminds her of her magical trip to Ireland. At the pub, she meets Eamon, an Irishman who is on her university’s soccer team. Challenging him to a drinking contest, they have their meet-cute moment. Throughout the story, they encounter hardships, grow as people, and find love and family in unexpected places
✨things I liked: Eamon Kennedy is a new book boyfriend 😍 I absolutely loved Norah and Eamon’s love story. A lot of rom coms I’ve read recently have been a bit fluffy (which isn’t a bad thing), but this book has so much depth and while giving you the warm, fuzzy feelings with romance, also tackles harder issues of trauma and loss that everyone can relate to. As someone who has also dealt with similar trauma and also lost people close to me, I could really relate to Norah and thoroughly enjoyed her growth throughout the story. This book also had me falling in love with the supporting characters which can be hard to do. Overall, I’m really excited to read more of this debut author’s books and recommend this to anyone who loves Irish men and sports romances 🇮🇪
⭐️ rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
3 words/phrases to describe: sports romance, found family, shy FMC/touch her and die MMC
✨synopsis: after experiencing trauma, Norah hasn’t dated. She’d moved to North Carolina for school after her mom passed away and found a refuge in a local Irish pub which reminds her of her magical trip to Ireland. At the pub, she meets Eamon, an Irishman who is on her university’s soccer team. Challenging him to a drinking contest, they have their meet-cute moment. Throughout the story, they encounter hardships, grow as people, and find love and family in unexpected places
✨things I liked: Eamon Kennedy is a new book boyfriend 😍 I absolutely loved Norah and Eamon’s love story. A lot of rom coms I’ve read recently have been a bit fluffy (which isn’t a bad thing), but this book has so much depth and while giving you the warm, fuzzy feelings with romance, also tackles harder issues of trauma and loss that everyone can relate to. As someone who has also dealt with similar trauma and also lost people close to me, I could really relate to Norah and thoroughly enjoyed her growth throughout the story. This book also had me falling in love with the supporting characters which can be hard to do. Overall, I’m really excited to read more of this debut author’s books and recommend this to anyone who loves Irish men and sports romances 🇮🇪
April 1, 2025
This is a 4.5 star read but I can’t do half stars on here to show it!
His Ringsend Rose follows the two main characters Norah and Eamon on their journey of falling in love for the first time after both facing past challenges to make them never plan to fall in love ever again.
They meet at a pub, where Norah challenges Eamon to a drinking context which leads us into the beginning of their journey to finally finding love. Eamon is Irish, so the way he speaks is full of Irish slang. The writing is so clear that I had no problem with picking up and understanding the meaning to the words which made this read so easy.
Now, the only reason I didn’t rate this 5 stars is because there is something big that happened between Eamon and Norah at Chapter 34, I felt it was very rushed and that there could have been a lot more details shared in that chapter and a few chapters after to help make the drama and the emotions more intense. I loved reading those parts and thought they fit well into the story line I just would have loved more details shared about Norah and Eamons feelings and reactions.
Other than that, this was such a good read! The story line was strong and stayed consistent from start to finish!
His Ringsend Rose follows the two main characters Norah and Eamon on their journey of falling in love for the first time after both facing past challenges to make them never plan to fall in love ever again.
They meet at a pub, where Norah challenges Eamon to a drinking context which leads us into the beginning of their journey to finally finding love. Eamon is Irish, so the way he speaks is full of Irish slang. The writing is so clear that I had no problem with picking up and understanding the meaning to the words which made this read so easy.
Now, the only reason I didn’t rate this 5 stars is because there is something big that happened between Eamon and Norah at Chapter 34, I felt it was very rushed and that there could have been a lot more details shared in that chapter and a few chapters after to help make the drama and the emotions more intense. I loved reading those parts and thought they fit well into the story line I just would have loved more details shared about Norah and Eamons feelings and reactions.
Other than that, this was such a good read! The story line was strong and stayed consistent from start to finish!
July 30, 2024
What a cute story! I was hoping to fall in love with this book and all my ends were met.
This college romance was everything I wanted and more. The characters were relatable, charismatic and also flawed, and written in such a beautiful way by the author.
I completely adored the MCs, they were perfect for each other from moment one. The way Norah grew into a more confident woman, facing her fears and speaking her mind was truly one of my favorite aspects of this story. Eamon was just the perfect gentleman and candidate to be a book boyfriend to treasure forever.
There’s a lot of heavy topics in between the romance, L. Ballew handled them in such a way that they blend through the plot, not overpowering it, but as the backbone of the characters that were effected by them.
Definitely want to read more of this world and the other stories left to tell. Thank you so much for the opportunity to read this as an ARC.
This college romance was everything I wanted and more. The characters were relatable, charismatic and also flawed, and written in such a beautiful way by the author.
I completely adored the MCs, they were perfect for each other from moment one. The way Norah grew into a more confident woman, facing her fears and speaking her mind was truly one of my favorite aspects of this story. Eamon was just the perfect gentleman and candidate to be a book boyfriend to treasure forever.
There’s a lot of heavy topics in between the romance, L. Ballew handled them in such a way that they blend through the plot, not overpowering it, but as the backbone of the characters that were effected by them.
Definitely want to read more of this world and the other stories left to tell. Thank you so much for the opportunity to read this as an ARC.
July 6, 2024
I've come to the conclusion that I desperately need to go to Ireland to find a husband.
5/5 ⭐
I haven't read contemporary romance in a while, BUT LET ME TELL YOU!! THIS BOOOOOOKKKK AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!
I literally DEVOURED this book. It made me laugh, squeal, swoon, gasp, scream, EVERYTHING. I really enjoyed the way the story is written, the little family they've created is honestly the best, their interactions were so so good and funny I couldn't put the book down.
Norah Grady has been THROUGH IT, but I was so touched by her story and how she evolved throughout the book, queen. Eamon Kennedy THAT MAN, I want that man to be the love of my life.
I 100% recommend this book to anyone who is looking for a very nice cozy romance story with an amazing found family and hot irish men (who doesn't that?!?).
Love you all and happy reading 💋💋
5/5 ⭐
I haven't read contemporary romance in a while, BUT LET ME TELL YOU!! THIS BOOOOOOKKKK AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!
I literally DEVOURED this book. It made me laugh, squeal, swoon, gasp, scream, EVERYTHING. I really enjoyed the way the story is written, the little family they've created is honestly the best, their interactions were so so good and funny I couldn't put the book down.
Norah Grady has been THROUGH IT, but I was so touched by her story and how she evolved throughout the book, queen. Eamon Kennedy THAT MAN, I want that man to be the love of my life.
I 100% recommend this book to anyone who is looking for a very nice cozy romance story with an amazing found family and hot irish men (who doesn't that?!?).
Love you all and happy reading 💋💋
September 7, 2024
Norah, the ultimate introvert, reminded me of myself—she’s all about designing costumes to dodge socializing, while I’m over here avoiding people with books! Then there’s Eamon, the blue-eyed Irish soccer (okay, football) player (😮💨 blue-eyed guys just do it for me). He couldn't keep his eyes off her from the start—can we call it a meet-cute? And let's not forget sneaky Pat, our unexpected cupid 🤭. They’re both college kids, and let me tell you, Eamon is so thoughtful, I legit swooned. The spice is a slow burn (emphasis on slooowww), but it's worth it—Eamon knows exactly what he's doing, iykyk😏. Norah's got him wrapped around her pinky, and I am here for it. Loved the ending and I’m officially obsessed with Leslie’s writing. If you're into Irish hotties who play soccer and sing you songs at the pub, this one’s for you!
Thanks Leslie for this ARC in exchange for my honest thoughts
Thanks Leslie for this ARC in exchange for my honest thoughts
July 9, 2024
Romance is not my usual genre but I finished this book in two days. Strong Female MC and adorable Irish Gentleman kept things moving fast and I could not put it down. This book had me laughing, falling in love with the characters, tearing up, and even made my jaw dropped with shock!
This authors writes with ease and you are immediately engrossed in the settings of the MC making her costumes, drinking at the pub, walking around the city and more!
Great book and easy to read. I am excited to learn more about the side characters in the next book in possibly a series?!?! Hopefully???
So happy I found this book. I MIGHT say I like Romance now……. Haha. 🌹☘️
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️ in good taste! 👅 IYKYK lol
This authors writes with ease and you are immediately engrossed in the settings of the MC making her costumes, drinking at the pub, walking around the city and more!
Great book and easy to read. I am excited to learn more about the side characters in the next book in possibly a series?!?! Hopefully???
So happy I found this book. I MIGHT say I like Romance now……. Haha. 🌹☘️
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️ in good taste! 👅 IYKYK lol
July 29, 2024
This story is fabulous, a college romance about a charming, guitar-playing, Irish soccer player and a wallflower costume designer who meet in the most amusing way. Though this story focuses on several heavy topics, and the two MCs do help each other work through them, this story is so stinking cute!
I adored these characters! Eamon and Norah are both equally hilarious and sweet and are such a perfect match for one another! This is such a cosy read and I can’t wait to read the next one! This series is going to include interconnected love stories and I cannot wait to get into the head of some of these fantastic side characters! Found family is such a huge element in this story.
This book is a very quick, fast-paced read. It will have you tearing up and then laughing your butt off, all in the same chapter. So, if you’re looking for a book that features:
✨College RomCom
✨Insta Love
✨Emotional Healing
✨Spiiiiiice
✨Meet Cutes
✨Irish Charm
✨& drag queens
Then you should check out His Ringsend Rose!
I adored these characters! Eamon and Norah are both equally hilarious and sweet and are such a perfect match for one another! This is such a cosy read and I can’t wait to read the next one! This series is going to include interconnected love stories and I cannot wait to get into the head of some of these fantastic side characters! Found family is such a huge element in this story.
This book is a very quick, fast-paced read. It will have you tearing up and then laughing your butt off, all in the same chapter. So, if you’re looking for a book that features:
✨College RomCom
✨Insta Love
✨Emotional Healing
✨Spiiiiiice
✨Meet Cutes
✨Irish Charm
✨& drag queens
Then you should check out His Ringsend Rose!
April 26, 2025
4⭐️
What a debut! I’m genuinely shocked at how this author made me kick my feet and giggle along with some cute Irish banter, and IT IS THEIR FIRST BOOK EVER!
The romance and banter was top notch, but this book did a really nice job of integrating real world traumas to a romance in a way that felt realistic. I wouldn’t say this was a slow burn, but the love, patience, and admiration of the MMC gave me the yearning that I look for in a book boyfriend.
The only reason it’s not a perfect 5 is simply because the third act conflict was just resolved too quickly. I felt like we were riding an emotional rollercoaster the last few chapters that just got stopped short. But maybe that’s why it’s only book 1💚
What a debut! I’m genuinely shocked at how this author made me kick my feet and giggle along with some cute Irish banter, and IT IS THEIR FIRST BOOK EVER!
The romance and banter was top notch, but this book did a really nice job of integrating real world traumas to a romance in a way that felt realistic. I wouldn’t say this was a slow burn, but the love, patience, and admiration of the MMC gave me the yearning that I look for in a book boyfriend.
The only reason it’s not a perfect 5 is simply because the third act conflict was just resolved too quickly. I felt like we were riding an emotional rollercoaster the last few chapters that just got stopped short. But maybe that’s why it’s only book 1💚
June 9, 2024
His Ringsend Rose
By L. Ballew
5 ⭐️ 4 🌶️ Tropes: Found Family
Main Characters:
Norah & Eamon
Favorite line:
"There's nothing I wouldn't do to keep you safe. You're precious to me. I think I've loved you from the first moment I saw you." - Eamon
My Thoughts:
Whew! This book! I don’t know what L. Ballew put into this book but once I started reading I couldn’t put it down. The spice was just right, the comedy was spot on and the drama was just enough to keep things interesting. I loved the respect and devotion that Eamon showed towards Norah’s healing. This was such a cozy read and I fully intend to read this book again in the future!
By L. Ballew
5 ⭐️ 4 🌶️ Tropes: Found Family
Main Characters:
Norah & Eamon
Favorite line:
"There's nothing I wouldn't do to keep you safe. You're precious to me. I think I've loved you from the first moment I saw you." - Eamon
My Thoughts:
Whew! This book! I don’t know what L. Ballew put into this book but once I started reading I couldn’t put it down. The spice was just right, the comedy was spot on and the drama was just enough to keep things interesting. I loved the respect and devotion that Eamon showed towards Norah’s healing. This was such a cozy read and I fully intend to read this book again in the future!
July 7, 2024
This is my first ever Irish romance to read and I ate it up!!
Every woman deserves a lad like Eamon!!! 🤤
This is a well written debut novel full of love, fun teasing, trauma, healing, and peace. I loved the Irish slang and even learned some new terms. I’m already addicted to the characters and their story, I can’t wait to read more from this series.
AMAZING work, Ballew! Please, don’t ever let another story get lost in the back of a drawer or thrown on a back burner. You’re made for this!!
Every woman deserves a lad like Eamon!!! 🤤
This is a well written debut novel full of love, fun teasing, trauma, healing, and peace. I loved the Irish slang and even learned some new terms. I’m already addicted to the characters and their story, I can’t wait to read more from this series.
AMAZING work, Ballew! Please, don’t ever let another story get lost in the back of a drawer or thrown on a back burner. You’re made for this!!
July 22, 2024
This romance between an Irish footballer (soccer player for us Americans) and a redheaded American starts with a meet-cute drinking contest at an Irish pub in their North Carolinian college town. From there, through ups and downs, encouraged by their friend groups, a relationship develops and is tested. I adored both main characters, the settings, and all (most?) of the side characters. The way Eamon serenaded Norah was swoon-worthy (as was the "good lass" spicy scene!). I'm glad to see that their friends will be getting books, too. (Oh, and the descriptions of Norah's costume designing made me wish I was creative!)
Thank you to the author for my eARC.
Thank you to the author for my eARC.
July 29, 2024
I loved Eamon and Norah's chemistry! They fit so well together. I love all things Ireland and so this satisfied my need especially with a tall, dark and handsome Irishman!
I loved the storyline and how they both grow together and come out of their shells. I love the healing that takes place and am jealous of Norah's friend group!
It was so well written and kept me interested. I can't wait to read the rest of the series! Well done, Leslie 👏 💚
I loved the storyline and how they both grow together and come out of their shells. I love the healing that takes place and am jealous of Norah's friend group!
It was so well written and kept me interested. I can't wait to read the rest of the series! Well done, Leslie 👏 💚
November 14, 2025
This book took me straight back to Ireland in the best way possible! And most of it doesn't even take place there! Eamon is the perfect golden retriever Irish MMC with a bit of a rough past and a dirty mouth that you can't help but fall in love with. Norah is such a strong FMC fighting to overcome her own traumatic past. And despite all that making it sounds like an angsty book, most of it is sweet, funny, and even a little cozy! So grab a pint, put on some Irish trad music and dive right in!
June 18, 2024
I’m typically apprehensive of insta-love stories but god does it make so much sense for Norah and Eamon. I had such a fun time reading this book. I loved the banter between both friends group and our main couple, and I especially loved the depiction of dealing with trauma and healing from it while navigating a relationship. I cannot wait to read Teagan and Layla’s book!!!
August 2, 2024
OMG THIS BOOK WAS SOOOOO GOOD! I WAS CRYING, LAUGHING AND SCREAMING AT MY TABLET! BUT THE STORY LINE WAS AMAZING AND I CANT WAIT FOR THE OTHER BOOKS TO COME OUT TO TELL THE DIFFERENT STORIES. ALSO I NEED ME AND IRISH MAN IN MY LIFE JUST NOT ONE WITH HIS HEAD UP HIS ASS😂.
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July 4, 2024
Insta-love isn’t always my favorite but it was hard not to love Eamon and the Irish trio! An excellent debut book. Felt like it rushed through at times, but all and all I enjoyed myself and can’t wait for a series
July 20, 2024
This book is so cute!! How can you not fall in love this book it has 3 fine Irish footballers… but Eamon stole my heart. His love & patience for Norah is a story that will melt your heart. I can’t wait to read the rest of the series!
August 16, 2024
wish there were ways to give half stars, this was a cute story and although it took me a little to get into it, it absolutely got my attention. it was cute and sweet but handled sensitive situations well. would definitely come back to this when i just need something short, and easy on the mind.
September 16, 2024
Fantastic debut book from Ballew! Loved the genuine care taken with the characters and can't wait to see how the rest of the characters are developed in future books. Very excited to read more from this new author.
October 24, 2024
This book helped get me out of a reading slump. I can’t wait for the next one to come out so I can binge book 1 and 2!! Such an amazing story with perfect banter between characters! The drag scene, IYKYK ☺️🙏🔥🔥
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