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A Letter from Ireland
My whole life, I've been haunted by a secret I've left behind on the coast of Ireland. I may be gone, but if you’re reading this Casey, I need to tell you everything…
When Casey’s dear friend Rosie passes away, her heart breaks in two; Rosie didn’t even tell her she was sick. And when a mysterious letter arrives from beyond the grave, describing the secluded island where Rosie spent every summer, Casey questions if she really knew her friend at all. With Casey’s hectic job ruling her life, and her marriage crumbling around her, she books a ticket to this beautiful Irish island to feel close to Rosie again, and find out what secrets she has hidden there.
Casey rushes to the tumbledown cottage and immediately falls in love with the glimmering shores and breathtaking coves of Scarty island. Why did Rosie keep this magical place a secret, even from her own husband? Desperate for answers, she immerses herself with the locals organising afternoon teas for tourists, and helps handsome but overworked pub owner Shay. Though Shay stays tight-lipped, Casey notices how his hazel eyes shine when she makes him laugh, and how her heart skips a beat when his rough hands brush hers.
But just as Casey finds herself falling for Shay’s quiet strength, a final letter arrives that changes everything. The tear-stained pages tell the story of a forbidden romance and a tragic day at sea that destroyed Rosie’s life. It could shatter Casey’s blossoming romance and tear the small island community apart.
Will Casey find the strength to confront the ghosts of the past and confess her love for Shay? Or will she decide that some secrets are meant to stay buried, and say goodbye to Scarty forever?
An utterly uplifting and heart-stopping read bursting with Irish magic that will tug at your heartstrings. Perfect for fans of Susanne O’Leary, Tricia O’Malley and Mary Alice Monroe.
When Casey’s dear friend Rosie passes away, her heart breaks in two; Rosie didn’t even tell her she was sick. And when a mysterious letter arrives from beyond the grave, describing the secluded island where Rosie spent every summer, Casey questions if she really knew her friend at all. With Casey’s hectic job ruling her life, and her marriage crumbling around her, she books a ticket to this beautiful Irish island to feel close to Rosie again, and find out what secrets she has hidden there.
Casey rushes to the tumbledown cottage and immediately falls in love with the glimmering shores and breathtaking coves of Scarty island. Why did Rosie keep this magical place a secret, even from her own husband? Desperate for answers, she immerses herself with the locals organising afternoon teas for tourists, and helps handsome but overworked pub owner Shay. Though Shay stays tight-lipped, Casey notices how his hazel eyes shine when she makes him laugh, and how her heart skips a beat when his rough hands brush hers.
But just as Casey finds herself falling for Shay’s quiet strength, a final letter arrives that changes everything. The tear-stained pages tell the story of a forbidden romance and a tragic day at sea that destroyed Rosie’s life. It could shatter Casey’s blossoming romance and tear the small island community apart.
Will Casey find the strength to confront the ghosts of the past and confess her love for Shay? Or will she decide that some secrets are meant to stay buried, and say goodbye to Scarty forever?
An utterly uplifting and heart-stopping read bursting with Irish magic that will tug at your heartstrings. Perfect for fans of Susanne O’Leary, Tricia O’Malley and Mary Alice Monroe.
358 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 7, 2024
1320 people are currently reading
171 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 40 reviews
October 16, 2024
I received a free copy of, A Letter from Ireland, by Ann O'Loughlin, from the publisher and Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. Rosie has died, before she did she sent letters to her friends, to come to Scarty, in Ireland o say goodbye and reminisce. Casey, Georgie, and Debbie have lost touch over the years, but meet up in Scarty, to honor Rosie. I found this book to be a little confusing, with the names and the places.
October 8, 2024
Check out all my reviews at: https://www.avonnalovesgenres.com
A LETTER FROM IRELAND by Ann O’Loughlin is a women’s fiction story about four best friends who have a falling out and are never the same again. When Rosie passes away from cancer, which none of her friends knew about, she sets up a two-month long reunion of the remaining three women on her private island off the coast of Ireland, but there are secrets to be revealed in the form of letters from their dead friend.
The description of this story had me wanting to sit down and read about these women’s lives and it is full of surprises and big emotions, but not until far too late into the book. The first third of the story was repetitive, slow, and almost had me putting it down for good, but I carried on and was glad that I did as far as the overall plot.
The three women are portrayed at various stages of their lives and Casey is the focus. I had a hard time warming up to her and I never felt a deep connection to any of the three. The story focused as much on the location as the women which I felt their character development should have been deeper. The romantic subplot between Casey and Shay just felt thrown in and did not make me feel any more for Casey, especially since she was still legally married.
Overall, this was just an alright women’s fiction read that for me did not live up to the promise.
A LETTER FROM IRELAND by Ann O’Loughlin is a women’s fiction story about four best friends who have a falling out and are never the same again. When Rosie passes away from cancer, which none of her friends knew about, she sets up a two-month long reunion of the remaining three women on her private island off the coast of Ireland, but there are secrets to be revealed in the form of letters from their dead friend.
The description of this story had me wanting to sit down and read about these women’s lives and it is full of surprises and big emotions, but not until far too late into the book. The first third of the story was repetitive, slow, and almost had me putting it down for good, but I carried on and was glad that I did as far as the overall plot.
The three women are portrayed at various stages of their lives and Casey is the focus. I had a hard time warming up to her and I never felt a deep connection to any of the three. The story focused as much on the location as the women which I felt their character development should have been deeper. The romantic subplot between Casey and Shay just felt thrown in and did not make me feel any more for Casey, especially since she was still legally married.
Overall, this was just an alright women’s fiction read that for me did not live up to the promise.
September 6, 2024
I have been trying to think what to say after reading A letter from Ireland by one of my favourite Irish authors Ann O’Loughlin. I am somewhat speechless. This is a deeply complex emotional story that moved me on so many levels. I was onboard from the first page and carried on the waves of Ann’s words across many tumultuous experiences to the very last page with its delightful 'sunny' resolution.
The plot is driven by letters written by a friend who has passed away. This woman, Rosie, who lived in New York, has quite a number of secrets she has harboured for many years. Upon her death, after battling cancer, she unveils all of the most important aspects of her life: what made her happy, sad, fulfilled and unfinished. There is a lot to process for the reader when she begins sharing everything bit by bit through her letters. But how much more traumatic it is to the friends she has written to in order to explain her requests and reasons behind them. There are lots of twists and surprises: some unexpected but appreciated.
It all starts with Rosie’s request that her friends Casey, Debbie and Georgie go to this little island Scarty, off Ireland, where they must stay for two months in a very rustic farmhouse (with an outside toilet) and spread her ashes at the close of their stay in her favourite location. Many questions rise in their minds but Rosie answers them all (mostly) through her letters by the close of the novel. But this is not just an information journey. It is one of discovery for the three women who will battle between themselves and others—even with their dead friend. A number of letters will be sent to them about her life: some revelations will shock, upset and even madden them but other acknowledgments will make them weep. They will not only learn unexpected things about their friend but also a lot about themselves. These truths will give them courage, clarity and a desire for completeness in their own lives. So Rosie’s plan works. She wants her friends to achieve real happiness, take stock of their current lives by sending them to an island without conveniences. To force them to get in touch with nature and ultimately with their own inner voices.
On this journey, these three women meet some lovely Irish friends of Rosie’s. Many wonderful but also confronting things happen as they get to know themselves, their late friend and establish new friendships. The two months brings much needed change, connection and realignment. Irish Dan, May and Shay are intriguing characters who help Americans Casey, Debbie and Georgie adjust to the dramatic land and seascape. As they share their own stories of Rosie, they realise they did not know all of her deep secrets, either. Of course, we all learn what those things were that plagued, propelled and changed Rosie: how she came to this island and the people she loved and lost.
I enjoyed immensely the ‘Letters’ that are shared from late Rosie to her friends. These words are the tangle living pieces or the essence of this woman, written in her last days before her breath expired. The island, too, is a physical representation of her. Through these two things, Rosie’s presence or spirit remains. And although all the friends have many dramas swirling around them, Rosie’s life is the fixed focal point of the plot. But she is the source of their change.
I must add that I never tire of stories that share stories through the words of letters. Thoughts written down by late loved ones always move me. Just as I have looked at the handwriting of my own ancestors and imagined the days they lived, seeing their soul experiences, their names, etc. on paper, it always inspires me. Their physical writings are a tangible link to the past.
A Letter from Ireland is a beautiful, heart stirring, thought provoking story about the importance of family and friends, love, healing, connecting, reconnecting, trusting your inner voice and having courage to live your best life. 5 Heart-Felt Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
The plot is driven by letters written by a friend who has passed away. This woman, Rosie, who lived in New York, has quite a number of secrets she has harboured for many years. Upon her death, after battling cancer, she unveils all of the most important aspects of her life: what made her happy, sad, fulfilled and unfinished. There is a lot to process for the reader when she begins sharing everything bit by bit through her letters. But how much more traumatic it is to the friends she has written to in order to explain her requests and reasons behind them. There are lots of twists and surprises: some unexpected but appreciated.
It all starts with Rosie’s request that her friends Casey, Debbie and Georgie go to this little island Scarty, off Ireland, where they must stay for two months in a very rustic farmhouse (with an outside toilet) and spread her ashes at the close of their stay in her favourite location. Many questions rise in their minds but Rosie answers them all (mostly) through her letters by the close of the novel. But this is not just an information journey. It is one of discovery for the three women who will battle between themselves and others—even with their dead friend. A number of letters will be sent to them about her life: some revelations will shock, upset and even madden them but other acknowledgments will make them weep. They will not only learn unexpected things about their friend but also a lot about themselves. These truths will give them courage, clarity and a desire for completeness in their own lives. So Rosie’s plan works. She wants her friends to achieve real happiness, take stock of their current lives by sending them to an island without conveniences. To force them to get in touch with nature and ultimately with their own inner voices.
On this journey, these three women meet some lovely Irish friends of Rosie’s. Many wonderful but also confronting things happen as they get to know themselves, their late friend and establish new friendships. The two months brings much needed change, connection and realignment. Irish Dan, May and Shay are intriguing characters who help Americans Casey, Debbie and Georgie adjust to the dramatic land and seascape. As they share their own stories of Rosie, they realise they did not know all of her deep secrets, either. Of course, we all learn what those things were that plagued, propelled and changed Rosie: how she came to this island and the people she loved and lost.
I enjoyed immensely the ‘Letters’ that are shared from late Rosie to her friends. These words are the tangle living pieces or the essence of this woman, written in her last days before her breath expired. The island, too, is a physical representation of her. Through these two things, Rosie’s presence or spirit remains. And although all the friends have many dramas swirling around them, Rosie’s life is the fixed focal point of the plot. But she is the source of their change.
I must add that I never tire of stories that share stories through the words of letters. Thoughts written down by late loved ones always move me. Just as I have looked at the handwriting of my own ancestors and imagined the days they lived, seeing their soul experiences, their names, etc. on paper, it always inspires me. Their physical writings are a tangible link to the past.
A Letter from Ireland is a beautiful, heart stirring, thought provoking story about the importance of family and friends, love, healing, connecting, reconnecting, trusting your inner voice and having courage to live your best life. 5 Heart-Felt Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
November 4, 2024
Casey, Debbie and Georgie receive a letter from their friend Rosie who has just died. The four girls used to be best friends but over the years they each went their own way and had little contact with each other.
Rosie requests that her 3 friends should travel to an isolated Island off the west coast of Ireland to scatter her ashes.
I loved the way Rosie’s story unfolded and how she brought her friends together on Scarty Island.
Full of mystery, secrets and humour about friendship, families and relationships.
Thank you NetGalley and Bookouture for a chance to read this E-Book. The opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Rosie requests that her 3 friends should travel to an isolated Island off the west coast of Ireland to scatter her ashes.
I loved the way Rosie’s story unfolded and how she brought her friends together on Scarty Island.
Full of mystery, secrets and humour about friendship, families and relationships.
Thank you NetGalley and Bookouture for a chance to read this E-Book. The opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
September 19, 2024
A Letter from Ireland by Ann O’Loughlin is about four best friends who have been in each other’s lives up until a fairly recent falling out. Life took the four women on different paths that ultimately led to one’s death and the three friends are left to discover her mysterious second life on a remote island in Ireland. Each friend leaves the island with something they didn’t have before.
The storyline of the book was great and I truly hope others enjoy it. This wasn’t my favorite unfortunately. I feel that there was an overuse of the location names. Some areas could be fine with just saying the Island or mainland. I also felt that there was an excessive amount of back and forth that the characters went to those places. It seemed like the location was more important than the storyline itself. The FMC Casey was hard to love and I found myself wanting to know more about Georgie. There is also a lot of moments where two characters go off and talk somewhere and I felt that the locations of these places weren’t necessary. With that being said, maybe the book just wasn’t right for me. Thank you NetGalley for the arc!
The storyline of the book was great and I truly hope others enjoy it. This wasn’t my favorite unfortunately. I feel that there was an overuse of the location names. Some areas could be fine with just saying the Island or mainland. I also felt that there was an excessive amount of back and forth that the characters went to those places. It seemed like the location was more important than the storyline itself. The FMC Casey was hard to love and I found myself wanting to know more about Georgie. There is also a lot of moments where two characters go off and talk somewhere and I felt that the locations of these places weren’t necessary. With that being said, maybe the book just wasn’t right for me. Thank you NetGalley for the arc!
October 9, 2024
The message of friendship throughout the book is so beautiful. Friends can be extremely close for a time, lose each other to distance, and still come back to one another. It's not a perfect science, but true friendships last, even when you're holding secrets from one another. Even when life tries to get in the way. Sometimes that distance is important.
Rosie's letters truly make this book. Unraveling Rosie's entire story really made the book for me. The best friends, Georgie, Debbie, and Casey, they definitely make for an interesting group of friends, they remind me of the Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants, or there's a movie cover I'm seeing in my mind, but can't think of the title to. But I could have easily left out their story lines and the Casey-Shay romance for just Rosie's story. Casey was hard for me to relate to, which was unexpected seeing as she is the main character, but I found Debbie very easy to relate to. Despite struggling a bit at the beginning of the book, I look forward to trying more of this author's work in the future, if her other stories are as beautifully crafted as this, I can't wait.
I have to be honest, I struggled a bit getting used to this author. The characters felt stiff to me until they got to Scarty Island. My other early gripe was, oh my goodness how many times does the name Scarty need to be said? I searched it on the ebook. The name of the island appears 228 times, that's roughly every 1 3/4 pages, which feels like overkill, especially when it's repeated a bunch in short bursts and then not at all for multiple pages. Rant over.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author via Netgalley and Bookouture in exchange for an honest review.
Rosie's letters truly make this book. Unraveling Rosie's entire story really made the book for me. The best friends, Georgie, Debbie, and Casey, they definitely make for an interesting group of friends, they remind me of the Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants, or there's a movie cover I'm seeing in my mind, but can't think of the title to. But I could have easily left out their story lines and the Casey-Shay romance for just Rosie's story. Casey was hard for me to relate to, which was unexpected seeing as she is the main character, but I found Debbie very easy to relate to. Despite struggling a bit at the beginning of the book, I look forward to trying more of this author's work in the future, if her other stories are as beautifully crafted as this, I can't wait.
I have to be honest, I struggled a bit getting used to this author. The characters felt stiff to me until they got to Scarty Island. My other early gripe was, oh my goodness how many times does the name Scarty need to be said? I searched it on the ebook. The name of the island appears 228 times, that's roughly every 1 3/4 pages, which feels like overkill, especially when it's repeated a bunch in short bursts and then not at all for multiple pages. Rant over.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author via Netgalley and Bookouture in exchange for an honest review.
October 9, 2024
Brilliant book!
First of all, what a beautiful cover! That artwork is gorgeous and extremely eye-catching.
The story follows Casey, who receives a letter from the grave from her friend Rosie, who sadly passed. Casey decides to visit the island and work out who her friend really was.
This is a beautiful book and offers a sense of longing and discovery. A friend wants to discover her friend's past and all the secrets she holds!
Casey is such a lovely character, and you really feel for as she goes on this very special journey - Ann writes it perfectly ❤️.
I also love how Ann builds the mystery of Rosie too and while her story was incredibly sad, it really allowed me as the reader to get to know Rosie too and her past relationships plus her relationship with Casey.
It's such a lovely, heart-warming story and once again beautifully told.
First of all, what a beautiful cover! That artwork is gorgeous and extremely eye-catching.
The story follows Casey, who receives a letter from the grave from her friend Rosie, who sadly passed. Casey decides to visit the island and work out who her friend really was.
This is a beautiful book and offers a sense of longing and discovery. A friend wants to discover her friend's past and all the secrets she holds!
Casey is such a lovely character, and you really feel for as she goes on this very special journey - Ann writes it perfectly ❤️.
I also love how Ann builds the mystery of Rosie too and while her story was incredibly sad, it really allowed me as the reader to get to know Rosie too and her past relationships plus her relationship with Casey.
It's such a lovely, heart-warming story and once again beautifully told.
October 4, 2024
I loved the story line in this book. I loved how friends that were separated came together and rekindled their friendship. It is so real how when one person dies we tend to finally make time for each other. I did feel like this book dragged and there were unnecessary scenes and I started to struggle but I pushed through because I knew there was going to be a good part. The ending did not disappoint. Thanks to NetGalley for the ARC copy!
November 12, 2024
Loved it!! Casey, Debbie and Georgie are devastated to find out their best friend, Rosie, has died. None of them even knew Rosie was sick. Rosie's dying wish is for the friends to stay for eight weeks on Scarty Island off the County Clare coast in Ireland. The island is pretty much in the middle of nowhere. The friends are to stay in Rosie's farmhouse, which is the only structure on the island. The house has no electric or indoor plumbing. The only way to communicate with the townspeople is to raise up a flag and hope someone notices it. It felt like all the Kennedy's did was ferry the women back and forth all day. How did they actually have time to get any work done? The relationship between Casey, Debbie and Georgie was intense at times. Debbie and Georgie seemed to bicker over everything. They all wanted the best for each other and had to forgive each other for the stuff that happened in the past. Debbie pushed Georgie because she wanted the best for her. Georgie needed her guidance since she didn't always make the best decisions. The three women definitely didn't make the best decisions when it came to men. I do not know how Casey stayed married to Gary for so long. She was well aware of his extracurricular activities with other women. Those eight weeks on Scarty Island were the best thing for Casey, Debbie and Georgie. They all reconnected and learned what they really needed in life. They also got to share their memories of Rosie. Rosie knew what she was doing when she brought her friends together. Loved learning the truth about Rosie and why she loved Scarty Island so much. The island held so many secrets. Rosie's last letter was definitely a shock, especially when she revealed the truth. The women had me laughing and crying. I can't believe they allowed a chicken to live in the house!! The messes they would have to clean up. Then they keep Rosie in a cereal box.
Definitely recommend the book. The book was pure magic and beautifully written. I felt like I was right there with Casey, Debbie and Georgie as they reacquainted themselves with each other, made the farmhouse their home away from home and got to know the real Rosie. Scarty Island sounded beautiful, with the wildlife, beaches and flowers. I wouldn't mind visiting the farmhouse for a day, but not eight weeks. I would simply stay in Ballymurphy. All the people were lovely and immediately welcomed the women to the village. Loved the characters, writing style and story. Look forward to reading more books by the author.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Bookouture through NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Definitely recommend the book. The book was pure magic and beautifully written. I felt like I was right there with Casey, Debbie and Georgie as they reacquainted themselves with each other, made the farmhouse their home away from home and got to know the real Rosie. Scarty Island sounded beautiful, with the wildlife, beaches and flowers. I wouldn't mind visiting the farmhouse for a day, but not eight weeks. I would simply stay in Ballymurphy. All the people were lovely and immediately welcomed the women to the village. Loved the characters, writing style and story. Look forward to reading more books by the author.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Bookouture through NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
September 29, 2024
Read in one sitting on a rainy autumnal Sunday and as always when finishing one of the author’s books I'm feeling bereft to have left the characters and desperate for a sequel so I can catch up with them all again.
Responding to their friend's request following her death three women travel to a small Irish Island where they'll learn not only more about their friend but more about themselves too. Their lives and the lives of those they meet will forever be changed by their summer on Scarty.
Another lovely read by this talented author.
Responding to their friend's request following her death three women travel to a small Irish Island where they'll learn not only more about their friend but more about themselves too. Their lives and the lives of those they meet will forever be changed by their summer on Scarty.
Another lovely read by this talented author.
September 29, 2024
I loved it!
I became so involved with the 3 women who travelled to Ireland from New York to fulfil the wishes of their friend Rosie as she was dying.
It was certainly an unusual situation to be I'm, travelling to stay in a remote island in Ireland where there is no WiFi or communication apart from the local bar owner who runs his boat across to bring provisions or take them back to the mainland to take calls etc.
A very different type of read but I had to read into the small hours to get to the end. Then I was sorry it had ended.
A lot of twists and loads of secrets lay underneath the initial plan received by letter but then things change.
Thankyou Ann.
I became so involved with the 3 women who travelled to Ireland from New York to fulfil the wishes of their friend Rosie as she was dying.
It was certainly an unusual situation to be I'm, travelling to stay in a remote island in Ireland where there is no WiFi or communication apart from the local bar owner who runs his boat across to bring provisions or take them back to the mainland to take calls etc.
A very different type of read but I had to read into the small hours to get to the end. Then I was sorry it had ended.
A lot of twists and loads of secrets lay underneath the initial plan received by letter but then things change.
Thankyou Ann.
October 6, 2024
A Letter From Ireland is a poignant and heartwarming exploration of friendship, loss, and the hidden secrets that bind people together. Against the backdrop of Scarty Island, Casey uncovers Rosie’s hidden life in the novel.
Casey’s world is shaken when her friend Rosie dies, leaving a letter suggesting a secret life on an Irish island. Casey heads to Scarty Island to uncover Rosie’s hidden past.
Scarty Island, with its rugged beauty and tight-knit community, comes alive through O’Loughlin’s evocative writing, enhancing Casey’s self-discovery. The author adeptly portrays the difference between Casey’s hectic city life and the tranquil island lifestyle, providing solace for both the protagonist and reader.
At the heart of the novel is Casey’s relationship with Shay, a hardworking pub owner with his own hidden burdens. Their romance is filled with authentic and tender moments of connection. O’Loughlin is amazing at building their chemistry, making readers root for them even as secrets threaten to tear them apart.
Rosie’s letters are woven into the story, showing a tragic love story and a heartbreaking event that shaped her life. These letters keep the plot going, slowly unveiling secrets and adding emotional depth to Casey’s search for answers. The novel gets more intense when a forbidden love affair and a tragic shipwreck occur, creating an intriguing contrast with the tranquil island setting.
One of the novel’s strengths lies in its ability to delve into the depths of grief and depict the journey of healing. Casey’s journey isn’t just about finding out Rosie’s secrets, but also dealing with her own messed-up life - her failing marriage, her dead-end job, and the emptiness in her heart after Rosie died. O’Loughlin tackles these themes with sensitivity and grace, creating a character arc that feels real and easy to relate to.
The final letter from Rosie brings a powerful climax to the story, filling Casey with a mix of emotions as she is forced to face not only Rosie’s life but also her own. The resolution presents a bittersweet choice for Casey - embrace a new chapter or return to her altered old life.
Overall, A Letter from Ireland is a beautifully crafted novel with romance, mystery, and emotional depth. Ann O’Loughlin’s skillful storytelling and vivid depiction of island life make this a must-read for women’s fiction fans. Casey’s healing journey and the hidden secrets will stay with you well beyond the end of the book.
Casey’s world is shaken when her friend Rosie dies, leaving a letter suggesting a secret life on an Irish island. Casey heads to Scarty Island to uncover Rosie’s hidden past.
Scarty Island, with its rugged beauty and tight-knit community, comes alive through O’Loughlin’s evocative writing, enhancing Casey’s self-discovery. The author adeptly portrays the difference between Casey’s hectic city life and the tranquil island lifestyle, providing solace for both the protagonist and reader.
At the heart of the novel is Casey’s relationship with Shay, a hardworking pub owner with his own hidden burdens. Their romance is filled with authentic and tender moments of connection. O’Loughlin is amazing at building their chemistry, making readers root for them even as secrets threaten to tear them apart.
Rosie’s letters are woven into the story, showing a tragic love story and a heartbreaking event that shaped her life. These letters keep the plot going, slowly unveiling secrets and adding emotional depth to Casey’s search for answers. The novel gets more intense when a forbidden love affair and a tragic shipwreck occur, creating an intriguing contrast with the tranquil island setting.
One of the novel’s strengths lies in its ability to delve into the depths of grief and depict the journey of healing. Casey’s journey isn’t just about finding out Rosie’s secrets, but also dealing with her own messed-up life - her failing marriage, her dead-end job, and the emptiness in her heart after Rosie died. O’Loughlin tackles these themes with sensitivity and grace, creating a character arc that feels real and easy to relate to.
The final letter from Rosie brings a powerful climax to the story, filling Casey with a mix of emotions as she is forced to face not only Rosie’s life but also her own. The resolution presents a bittersweet choice for Casey - embrace a new chapter or return to her altered old life.
Overall, A Letter from Ireland is a beautifully crafted novel with romance, mystery, and emotional depth. Ann O’Loughlin’s skillful storytelling and vivid depiction of island life make this a must-read for women’s fiction fans. Casey’s healing journey and the hidden secrets will stay with you well beyond the end of the book.
October 9, 2024
A Letter From Ireland by Ann O'Loughlin is an immersive tale of loyalty, friendship, love, loss , secrets and so very much more. This is the second book I have read from this author and it is an experience each time.
O'Loughlin draws the reader into the wonder of Scarty Island, it's natural beauty and close community. The writing is wonderfully illustrative, to the point the reader is almost right there with the characters. The character profiles and development are very well constructed and ban balanced gracefully with the storyline and dialogue. Before we even get into the storyline, we have a novel that embraces the reader, enveloping them in a gorgeous ambience, almost as if they were cuddled up with a cup of tea and a warm sweater
Casey is devastated when her best friend Rosie passes away, leaving behind a legacy laced with the story of a secret life over on Scarty Island, a tiny island of the coast of Ireland, with a tiny community, including the Hazel-Eyed Shay (one of my favourite characters). Shay owns the pub on the island and is "still waters". The surface is calm, but there is a lot going on below
Rosie's letters are a key part of the narrative, adding an extra dimension to an already poignant and compelling story. Comparing the craziness of city life to the gentle calm of Scarty Island, the similarities and differences between the lives of the two women, and the tales and secrets of Rosies hidden life and the island she loved. As Casey works through the waves of grief and loss, her dear friends letters buoy her up, and give her direction as she heals
This is not just a story of the gentle and the emotional, there are also dynamic and intense story arcs filled with drama and suspense. In short, this book has everything I enjoy in a novel I want to get lost in. It is unpredictable, yet comforting, heartbreaking, yet reassuring, it is wholesome and forbidden. I highly recommend it as the perfect read for fall, and indeed, year round
Thank you to Netgalley, Bookouture and Ann O'Loughlin for this stunning ARC. My review is left voluntarily and all opinions are my own
O'Loughlin draws the reader into the wonder of Scarty Island, it's natural beauty and close community. The writing is wonderfully illustrative, to the point the reader is almost right there with the characters. The character profiles and development are very well constructed and ban balanced gracefully with the storyline and dialogue. Before we even get into the storyline, we have a novel that embraces the reader, enveloping them in a gorgeous ambience, almost as if they were cuddled up with a cup of tea and a warm sweater
Casey is devastated when her best friend Rosie passes away, leaving behind a legacy laced with the story of a secret life over on Scarty Island, a tiny island of the coast of Ireland, with a tiny community, including the Hazel-Eyed Shay (one of my favourite characters). Shay owns the pub on the island and is "still waters". The surface is calm, but there is a lot going on below
Rosie's letters are a key part of the narrative, adding an extra dimension to an already poignant and compelling story. Comparing the craziness of city life to the gentle calm of Scarty Island, the similarities and differences between the lives of the two women, and the tales and secrets of Rosies hidden life and the island she loved. As Casey works through the waves of grief and loss, her dear friends letters buoy her up, and give her direction as she heals
This is not just a story of the gentle and the emotional, there are also dynamic and intense story arcs filled with drama and suspense. In short, this book has everything I enjoy in a novel I want to get lost in. It is unpredictable, yet comforting, heartbreaking, yet reassuring, it is wholesome and forbidden. I highly recommend it as the perfect read for fall, and indeed, year round
Thank you to Netgalley, Bookouture and Ann O'Loughlin for this stunning ARC. My review is left voluntarily and all opinions are my own
October 7, 2024
A Letter from Ireland is such a beautiful and emotional read. I could barely put it down, finishing it in less than 24 hours.
A poignant read, it will have the reader reflecting on past choices and reevaluating what's really important and what it's time to let go of.
I now want to visit Scarty Island in Ireland, listening to the waves of the sea crashing against the shore, swim and have the close-knit relationship the mainlanders do.
Three women, with different personalities and a bit quirky at times, which makes them interesting visit Scarty Island for a two-month time period at the request of their friend who has passed away. These women all used to be very close, but time and circumstances happened, and they no longer share this closeness. The friend, Rosie, has written them letters delivered to them at the appropriate times which reveals secrets she has kept. These are things she has not wanted to dwell on even herself. These reveals cause the women a lot of self-reflection and tears for what could have been but will not have a chance now to be. I absolutely loved this book. So beautifully written and emotional. I will be telling all my friends about this book and reading more by the author.
I was given a complimentary copy of this book.
All opinions expressed are my own.
A poignant read, it will have the reader reflecting on past choices and reevaluating what's really important and what it's time to let go of.
I now want to visit Scarty Island in Ireland, listening to the waves of the sea crashing against the shore, swim and have the close-knit relationship the mainlanders do.
Three women, with different personalities and a bit quirky at times, which makes them interesting visit Scarty Island for a two-month time period at the request of their friend who has passed away. These women all used to be very close, but time and circumstances happened, and they no longer share this closeness. The friend, Rosie, has written them letters delivered to them at the appropriate times which reveals secrets she has kept. These are things she has not wanted to dwell on even herself. These reveals cause the women a lot of self-reflection and tears for what could have been but will not have a chance now to be. I absolutely loved this book. So beautifully written and emotional. I will be telling all my friends about this book and reading more by the author.
I was given a complimentary copy of this book.
All opinions expressed are my own.
October 11, 2024
Casey, Debbie, and Georgie lose their best friend Rosie, to cancer. At Rosie’s request they travel to Scarty Island off the coast of Ireland. They are to spend two months there and during that time they need to spread Rosie’s ashes there. They are staying in a rustic farmhouse. The friends have many questions as to why they are there and why is this the first time they are hearing about it. Rosie answers all their questions through letters that she wrote before she passed away. Casey is loving life on the island and finds herself connecting with the locals. One local in particular Shay, who owns the pub. Casey begins falling for Shay, but when the last and final letter arrives, Casey wonders if it will destroy the new romance between them.
A Letter From Ireland, written by author Ann O’Loughlin is a wonderful story of friendship, family and new beginnings. The author is so good at transporting the reader to Ireland, I felt like I was actually there. I thoroughly enjoyed reading the letter’s that Rosie had written. She felt like an old friend, and I wish I had known her before she passed away. I really like the blossoming romance between Casey and Shay and I felt like I knew them. This is an emotional and fantastic read and I highly recommend it.
A Letter From Ireland, written by author Ann O’Loughlin is a wonderful story of friendship, family and new beginnings. The author is so good at transporting the reader to Ireland, I felt like I was actually there. I thoroughly enjoyed reading the letter’s that Rosie had written. She felt like an old friend, and I wish I had known her before she passed away. I really like the blossoming romance between Casey and Shay and I felt like I knew them. This is an emotional and fantastic read and I highly recommend it.
October 9, 2024
I am a sucker for friendship books; they don't always pan out but they always pique my interest. In this novel, Rosie, gathers her oldest friends on an island after she passes away from cancer. The island is rustic but beautiful and the friends wonder why Rosie did not tell them about her diagnosis. The remaining women had some falling outs over the years.
The positives: the scenery was beautifully described; it was almost another character, really. I wanted to go to this island myself. The characters were well fleshed out. It was a fast read.
The negatives: the plot of Rosie dying seems a little bit of a ploy, and a little bit melodramatic. There was a strong start but later on, there were points that seemed a little too drawn out. And Georgie annoyed me, though I think she was meant to.
All in all, I was happy to have read this and this makes me want to read some of the author's other books.
I am providing my honest and unbiased review in exchange for an ARC from Bookouture and NetGalley.
The positives: the scenery was beautifully described; it was almost another character, really. I wanted to go to this island myself. The characters were well fleshed out. It was a fast read.
The negatives: the plot of Rosie dying seems a little bit of a ploy, and a little bit melodramatic. There was a strong start but later on, there were points that seemed a little too drawn out. And Georgie annoyed me, though I think she was meant to.
All in all, I was happy to have read this and this makes me want to read some of the author's other books.
I am providing my honest and unbiased review in exchange for an ARC from Bookouture and NetGalley.
October 13, 2024
Four friends gone their different ways but brought together by the death of one in their group. Her last request that they spend two whole months on the remote island of Scarty to reminisce, rebond and find out about themselves. It is a big ask. Each of them have professional and personal commitments which they find hard to let go, but they eventually do and get themselves to this remote area of Ireland.
The story pivots around Casey but the other two have stories of their own. Each of them have conflicts of being taken for granted, for being cheated on and in Georgie’s case close to bankruptcy. How the issues get resolved through closer introspection and facing up to reality and their own failings, how the second chance life throws at you should not be allowed to go astray, are all highlighted in this story.
Rosie herself had a life and secrets unknown to anyone and that in itself was shattering for all around her. That she could only come out with them after she died, was sad. But that is the story.
An emotional and joyous read at the same time.
The story pivots around Casey but the other two have stories of their own. Each of them have conflicts of being taken for granted, for being cheated on and in Georgie’s case close to bankruptcy. How the issues get resolved through closer introspection and facing up to reality and their own failings, how the second chance life throws at you should not be allowed to go astray, are all highlighted in this story.
Rosie herself had a life and secrets unknown to anyone and that in itself was shattering for all around her. That she could only come out with them after she died, was sad. But that is the story.
An emotional and joyous read at the same time.
October 5, 2024
Would you go to a remote island for 8 weeks if it was in your friend's will?
This is what Casey and Debbie have done for their friend Rosie, who's passed away. I have really enjoyed the theme of friendship and rediscovery in this book, and how both ladies rediscover their friendships while on this island. Also, the letter from Rosie really made it for me as they made me smile and think about her talking to them even though she was no longer around. Although the book is slow in places once the story gets going the pace is much better. In two months, a significant shift occurs as Irish Dan, May, and Shay help Americans Casey, Debbie, and Georgie adapt to the landscape and seascape. Through sharing Rosie's tales, they uncover hidden truths about her journey, influences, and relationships..
#Friendship #Rediscovery #RemoteIsland #Memories #Heartwarming #BookLovers #FriendshipGoals #EternalBond #CherishedMemories
This is what Casey and Debbie have done for their friend Rosie, who's passed away. I have really enjoyed the theme of friendship and rediscovery in this book, and how both ladies rediscover their friendships while on this island. Also, the letter from Rosie really made it for me as they made me smile and think about her talking to them even though she was no longer around. Although the book is slow in places once the story gets going the pace is much better. In two months, a significant shift occurs as Irish Dan, May, and Shay help Americans Casey, Debbie, and Georgie adapt to the landscape and seascape. Through sharing Rosie's tales, they uncover hidden truths about her journey, influences, and relationships..
#Friendship #Rediscovery #RemoteIsland #Memories #Heartwarming #BookLovers #FriendshipGoals #EternalBond #CherishedMemories
October 9, 2024
5⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
✨ emotional
✨ healing
✨ reconnecting
✨ I’m speechless. The way this book has been written was emotionally moving ( in a good way).
If you want to have a good cry this book is a must read.
✨ we lose friends, we lose them to death , to distance and overtime. But even though they may be lost,hope is not. The key is to keep them in your heart,and when the time is right , you can pick up the friendship right where you left off.
This is what I felt reading this. Even the the lost find theirs way home,when you leave the light on.
✨ A story of friendship, heart wrenching, reconnecting of a story.
Definitely worth the read and take note : ready your tissues ❤️
✨ Thankyou @bookouture for the opportunity to read this book for a honest review.
❤️ shaye.reads
✨ emotional
✨ healing
✨ reconnecting
✨ I’m speechless. The way this book has been written was emotionally moving ( in a good way).
If you want to have a good cry this book is a must read.
✨ we lose friends, we lose them to death , to distance and overtime. But even though they may be lost,hope is not. The key is to keep them in your heart,and when the time is right , you can pick up the friendship right where you left off.
This is what I felt reading this. Even the the lost find theirs way home,when you leave the light on.
✨ A story of friendship, heart wrenching, reconnecting of a story.
Definitely worth the read and take note : ready your tissues ❤️
✨ Thankyou @bookouture for the opportunity to read this book for a honest review.
❤️ shaye.reads
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 10, 2024
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
Wonderful! Wonderful!!!! I absolutely fell in love with this book!!!!! I felt like I was on the shores of Scarty Island. When Casey’s best friend Rosie passes away, Casy receives a mysterious letter sending her to the island for two months. Casey goes on an emotional journey and realizes that friendships never truly die. Get the tissues ready for this one.
This is my first book by Ann O’Loughlin but it won’t be my last! I am looking forward to reading more books by her. Many thanks to the author, Bookouture and NetGalley for a complimentary copy of the book. The opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.
#ALeterfromIreland #AnnOLoughlin #NetGalley #Bookouture #BooksOnTour #BookLove #Bookstagram #NewBook #ILoveBooks #BooksSetInIreland
Wonderful! Wonderful!!!! I absolutely fell in love with this book!!!!! I felt like I was on the shores of Scarty Island. When Casey’s best friend Rosie passes away, Casy receives a mysterious letter sending her to the island for two months. Casey goes on an emotional journey and realizes that friendships never truly die. Get the tissues ready for this one.
This is my first book by Ann O’Loughlin but it won’t be my last! I am looking forward to reading more books by her. Many thanks to the author, Bookouture and NetGalley for a complimentary copy of the book. The opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.
#ALeterfromIreland #AnnOLoughlin #NetGalley #Bookouture #BooksOnTour #BookLove #Bookstagram #NewBook #ILoveBooks #BooksSetInIreland
October 19, 2024
Thank you NetGalley and Bookouture for a copy of "A Letter from Ireland" in exchange for my honest opinion.
A book by Ms. O'Loughlin is sure to transport the reader to the shores of Ireland and you will always be in for a great read. The cover will draw you in straight away as it is gorgeous. Her stories are always filled with messages and lessons. Her words will have the scent of the ocean around you.
When Casey's dear friend Rosie passes away, she is heartbroken as she didn't even know she'd been ill. She travels to Ireland to learn more about the friend that she thought she knew so well. She finds a community and immerses herself in it as she learns about Rosie and herself in the process.
A book by Ms. O'Loughlin is sure to transport the reader to the shores of Ireland and you will always be in for a great read. The cover will draw you in straight away as it is gorgeous. Her stories are always filled with messages and lessons. Her words will have the scent of the ocean around you.
When Casey's dear friend Rosie passes away, she is heartbroken as she didn't even know she'd been ill. She travels to Ireland to learn more about the friend that she thought she knew so well. She finds a community and immerses herself in it as she learns about Rosie and herself in the process.
March 15, 2025
As with all the Ann O'Loughlin books I've read recently, it was great storytelling. She manages to include unexpected aspects in each book. Unfortunately, there were a lot of typos in this one. It detracted a bit the book. Also as with all of her books, she didn't quite get Americanisms correctly.
Those didn't change my enjoyment of the book, just were a little off. Still, I will keep reading her books because of her stories, and characters and because I love Ireland and reading about the Irish people.
Those didn't change my enjoyment of the book, just were a little off. Still, I will keep reading her books because of her stories, and characters and because I love Ireland and reading about the Irish people.
September 29, 2024
I generally enjoy books that have some connection to Ireland but this one did not draw me in as much as I had hoped. I understand the purpose of being vague with some details in the beginning about why the group drifted apart but considering how much the referenced the incident it was too vague and didn't provide enough to keep me reading and finding out what happened. The story was also a little to slow to develop for me.
March 24, 2025
A Letter From Ireland
This is a must read for all the besties that all women can relate. A bitter sweet story of love loss and heartbreak. This story will take you by the hand and across the ocean to a place of beauty , healing and a new life that awaits you. I could not put this book down as the strong , amazing characters and the views of scattery island and the people of Ballymurphy drew me in. A fantastic must read.
This is a must read for all the besties that all women can relate. A bitter sweet story of love loss and heartbreak. This story will take you by the hand and across the ocean to a place of beauty , healing and a new life that awaits you. I could not put this book down as the strong , amazing characters and the views of scattery island and the people of Ballymurphy drew me in. A fantastic must read.
October 6, 2024
This book really captured my imagination. I loved reading about a private island off the coast of Ireland and all the heartache and romance that occurred there.
Ann O’Loughlin seems to get the balance right between not too mushy and not too heartbreaking. I am happy to recommend her books to anyone who will listen to me.
Ann O’Loughlin seems to get the balance right between not too mushy and not too heartbreaking. I am happy to recommend her books to anyone who will listen to me.
January 6, 2025
An adorable read of love and friendship. When four of the bestest of friends drift apart it’s only on the sad loss of one that their friendship is rekindled. Spanning the ocean from America to Ireland the friends learn more about their own lives as well as that of their friend Rosie. Making friends along the way the story had me gripped from the start. A beautiful story.
August 2, 2025
Could have been half the length, a bit slow. I wanted to be taken in by the characters and their stories but felt like they were one dimensional and hard to like.
I also had a hard time believing everyone would just forgive Rosie her secrets so easily. Hard to like her character with the obtuse letters and from the grave machinations.
I also had a hard time believing everyone would just forgive Rosie her secrets so easily. Hard to like her character with the obtuse letters and from the grave machinations.
May 29, 2025
I really enjoyed this story, I don't think Scarty Island exists but I wish it did, I can visualise it from the description and would love to visit. The characters feel like friends and I really didn't want the story to finish. I will definitely read more if Ann's books.
August 24, 2025
review
At times I felt the story was longed out, rather then keeping it to the main storyline. I even skipped a few chapters and i still followed the story quite well. However the story does have it all, death, laughter, divorce & even marriage and love.
At times I felt the story was longed out, rather then keeping it to the main storyline. I even skipped a few chapters and i still followed the story quite well. However the story does have it all, death, laughter, divorce & even marriage and love.
October 28, 2024
I really enjoyed this book! At first I wasn’t sure about it, but it just kept getting better the more I read of it! Definitely recommend reading it.
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