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The Lighthouse Keeper's Wife
A lighthouse keeper’s wife struggles to protect her family at the edge of the known world.
Life is hard in Ireland in 1867. Eliza Carthy moves with her lighthouse-keeper husband James and sons Peter and Joseph to the remote island of Skellig Michael. Eliza is proud of her husband and his promotion to Principal Keeper and is eager to support him in his work and fulfil her duty as a good wife and mother. But life in this extreme location is challenging.
The island is 54 acres of jagged rock, jutting out of the Atlantic, with no way of communicating from or leaving the island. With no access to a boat, keepers must rely on a tender boat to deliver news, supplies and act as their conduit to life on the mainland. The island is exposed to extreme changes of weather and the landscape is fraught with danger.
When Assistant Keeper Edmund and his wife Ruth arrive, Eliza hopes for respite. But her new neighbours are not what she’d expected. They blow hot and cold, seemingly wanting Eliza and her family to leave Skellig Michael, and making her question her sanity.
Will Eliza be able to keep her family safe at the edge of the world? And can her marriage survive all that the island throws at them?
Life is hard in Ireland in 1867. Eliza Carthy moves with her lighthouse-keeper husband James and sons Peter and Joseph to the remote island of Skellig Michael. Eliza is proud of her husband and his promotion to Principal Keeper and is eager to support him in his work and fulfil her duty as a good wife and mother. But life in this extreme location is challenging.
The island is 54 acres of jagged rock, jutting out of the Atlantic, with no way of communicating from or leaving the island. With no access to a boat, keepers must rely on a tender boat to deliver news, supplies and act as their conduit to life on the mainland. The island is exposed to extreme changes of weather and the landscape is fraught with danger.
When Assistant Keeper Edmund and his wife Ruth arrive, Eliza hopes for respite. But her new neighbours are not what she’d expected. They blow hot and cold, seemingly wanting Eliza and her family to leave Skellig Michael, and making her question her sanity.
Will Eliza be able to keep her family safe at the edge of the world? And can her marriage survive all that the island throws at them?
450 pages, Paperback
Published January 16, 2025
76 people are currently reading
376 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 65 reviews
February 16, 2025
This book was marketed, I feel, wrongly. It's not really a psychological thriller, but it is gripping and I couldn't tear my eyes away from it despite how sad and then heartbreaking it got towards the end. It was true to life though, and covered Skellig Michael, one of the islands I've always been intrigued by, with such authentic detail, I felt I was there, living the sorrow and loneliness with them.
February 23, 2025
3.5
This is a compelling book, moving & disturbing.
The book starts in the cloudy, tough-weather atmosphere of a thriller.
"The Lighthouse Keeper's Wife" is a period fiction, describing the life of a woman in the late 1800s Ireland.
Plot & story:
The plot is simple & it follows the life of Eliza Carthy, with her two small boys & husband who is a Lighthouse Keeper & is very proud of his job. It is a slice-of-life fiction covering the most eventful one year of her life. Life on a secluded & cut-off island is described, & the challenges that brings, as well as a dangerous geography, even though the basic needs of the protagonists are well met.
The end was not very satisfying for me, it lacked a sense of closure, & felt like tied up too hastily. I also did not feel a triumph as big as I expected for the protagonists.
Characters:
The protagonists are very well developed, with adequate backstory, but the antagonists are somewhat vague. The author has done a very good job of portraying Eliza Carthy as someone who is curious about modern & scientific developments, but is also tied to tradition & custom. The protagonists are shown as human & flawed, but the antagonists, even though there is an attempt to show as mixed personalities, come across as inexplicably inconsistent. Whether that was intended is not clear. Their backstories are not revealed. Side characters are quite specific, very clearly drawn out & effective. It's easy to relate with & feel for the characters.
Setting & world-building:
The settings of the book contributes significantly to the atmosphere of the story as well as the experiences of the characters. The author successfully creates a feel & transports the reader there.
Themes:
I felt somewhat confused regarding the themes. Without giving spoilers, there are themes which are present but are not clarified in the book, & is an overlap between genres, but not a very effective one.
However, it is a thought-provoking book, regarding how different individuals experience the same stimuli differently, regarding gender, regrading the medical facilities we tend to take for granted in our daily lives!
Overall, a very engrossing & insightful read, but I'd have liked a stronger end.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This is a compelling book, moving & disturbing.
The book starts in the cloudy, tough-weather atmosphere of a thriller.
"The Lighthouse Keeper's Wife" is a period fiction, describing the life of a woman in the late 1800s Ireland.
Plot & story:
The plot is simple & it follows the life of Eliza Carthy, with her two small boys & husband who is a Lighthouse Keeper & is very proud of his job. It is a slice-of-life fiction covering the most eventful one year of her life. Life on a secluded & cut-off island is described, & the challenges that brings, as well as a dangerous geography, even though the basic needs of the protagonists are well met.
The end was not very satisfying for me, it lacked a sense of closure, & felt like tied up too hastily. I also did not feel a triumph as big as I expected for the protagonists.
Characters:
The protagonists are very well developed, with adequate backstory, but the antagonists are somewhat vague. The author has done a very good job of portraying Eliza Carthy as someone who is curious about modern & scientific developments, but is also tied to tradition & custom. The protagonists are shown as human & flawed, but the antagonists, even though there is an attempt to show as mixed personalities, come across as inexplicably inconsistent. Whether that was intended is not clear. Their backstories are not revealed. Side characters are quite specific, very clearly drawn out & effective. It's easy to relate with & feel for the characters.
Setting & world-building:
The settings of the book contributes significantly to the atmosphere of the story as well as the experiences of the characters. The author successfully creates a feel & transports the reader there.
Themes:
I felt somewhat confused regarding the themes. Without giving spoilers, there are themes which are present but are not clarified in the book, & is an overlap between genres, but not a very effective one.
However, it is a thought-provoking book, regarding how different individuals experience the same stimuli differently, regarding gender, regrading the medical facilities we tend to take for granted in our daily lives!
Overall, a very engrossing & insightful read, but I'd have liked a stronger end.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
December 27, 2024
Sublime, captivating storytelling. It's an incredible novel.
September 27, 2025
Set on the brutal remote island of Skellig Michael, this atmospheric novel made me feel cold and wet whilst I was reading it. The writing, the creepy neighbours and the unforgiving setting combined caused perpetual unease as I made my way through Eliza’s story. I felt frustrated, anxious and devastated for her - fair warning that some really horrible things happen to the children in this book. I was left a little wanting when it came to the last wee bit of the novel. I wanted Eliza’s revenge to be sweeter. But overall an excellent debut! The audio narration was absolutely superb. Won’t get Ruth’s evil voice out of my mind any time soon. Thank you so much to Bolinda Audio and NetGalley for the ARC of this audiobook! 🌊 ❤️🩹
December 28, 2025
“I’m sure you know as well as I do, Mrs. Carthy, that for a lightkeeper the light is all and a lightkeeper’s wife must respect that. His duty is her duty.” The novel, The Lighthouse Keeper’s Wife, by June O’Sullivan takes us to 1867 Ireland, as the central character, Eliza Carthy, holds steadfast in her support of her two young boys and the caretaking of her isolated home upon the small island, as her dutiful husband keeps task in monitoring the sole lighthouse. The arrival of a new discomfiting couple, as the only neighbors, forces Eliza to confront those of selfish means both within and outside of their marriage despite every effort to exhibit kindness. The Lighthouse Keeper’s Wife explores the resolve of an endearing character when dealt with repeated heartache, feeling for her in each moment and rooting for her small successes until the end. Recommended read.
I was sent this book for free and am voluntarily leaving this honest review.
I was sent this book for free and am voluntarily leaving this honest review.
December 18, 2024
June O’Sullivan’s The Lighthouse Keeper's Wife is a heartfelt and captivating story of love, resilience, and sacrifice. Set on a remote, windswept coast, the novel follows the life of a lighthouse keeper’s wife, whose strength and determination guide her through isolation and hardship.
O'Sullivan's vivid descriptions bring the rugged seaside setting to life, immersing readers in the beauty and challenges of a lighthouse keeper’s world. The story’s emotional depth shines through its exploration of relationships, particularly the quiet yet powerful bond between husband and wife. Themes of love, duty, and perseverance are woven seamlessly into the narrative, making it both moving and relatable.
With its compelling characters and evocative writing, The Lighthouse Keeper's Wife is a story that stays with you. It’s a must-read for fans of historical fiction and tales of quiet heroism.
O'Sullivan's vivid descriptions bring the rugged seaside setting to life, immersing readers in the beauty and challenges of a lighthouse keeper’s world. The story’s emotional depth shines through its exploration of relationships, particularly the quiet yet powerful bond between husband and wife. Themes of love, duty, and perseverance are woven seamlessly into the narrative, making it both moving and relatable.
With its compelling characters and evocative writing, The Lighthouse Keeper's Wife is a story that stays with you. It’s a must-read for fans of historical fiction and tales of quiet heroism.
January 31, 2025
Wonderful writing . Such a captivating, emotional story . Never think this a debut novel
September 14, 2025
June O’Sullivan’s debut is an absorbing story of tragic, historical fiction, concerning a mother of two young boys whose husband is a principal lighthouse keeper, assigned to the remote island of Skellig Michael, off the Irish coast.
Alone on 54 acres of jagged rock, Eliza has to raise her sons while her husband tends to his duties. She’s relieved when the assistant keeper and his wife show up, but very quickly comes to realise they’re not at all what she expected.
There’s underlying resentment about Eliza’s husband’s seniority, offhand comments, aloofness and unpredictable mood swings.
When tragedy strikes, and Eliza is lost in her grief, their behaviour takes a more Machiavellian turn, prompting Eliza to raise concerns to her husband, James. However, Eliza hasn’t been herself and James is torn between his work, concerns for his wife’s mental health and the conflicting and credible account his assistant keeper sets out.
Eliza quickly realises that if she can’t make James believe her story, a sinister outcome awaits her.
This was a sad but compelling story, beautifully narrated by Roisin Rankin. I found it very easy to picture myself on the remote island alongside Eliza, and desperate for her to find a way out of the situation she found herself in.
Five stars from me, with thanks to NetGalley and Bolinda Audio for the chance to listen to an ARC.
The Lighthouse Keeper’s Wife released on 1 September.
Alone on 54 acres of jagged rock, Eliza has to raise her sons while her husband tends to his duties. She’s relieved when the assistant keeper and his wife show up, but very quickly comes to realise they’re not at all what she expected.
There’s underlying resentment about Eliza’s husband’s seniority, offhand comments, aloofness and unpredictable mood swings.
When tragedy strikes, and Eliza is lost in her grief, their behaviour takes a more Machiavellian turn, prompting Eliza to raise concerns to her husband, James. However, Eliza hasn’t been herself and James is torn between his work, concerns for his wife’s mental health and the conflicting and credible account his assistant keeper sets out.
Eliza quickly realises that if she can’t make James believe her story, a sinister outcome awaits her.
This was a sad but compelling story, beautifully narrated by Roisin Rankin. I found it very easy to picture myself on the remote island alongside Eliza, and desperate for her to find a way out of the situation she found herself in.
Five stars from me, with thanks to NetGalley and Bolinda Audio for the chance to listen to an ARC.
The Lighthouse Keeper’s Wife released on 1 September.
September 25, 2025
4 🌟
What a riveting, atmospheric novel. It's told through Eliza's POV, as she navigates her new life on this cold, unwelcoming island. The family's new neighbors start to make her and her husband question Eliza's sanity. It's a heartbreaking, yet frustrating experience for them all.
Róisín Rankin narrated the audiobook. I thought she did a great job at bringing Eliza and the island to life.
Recommended for fans of mysterious historical fiction stories.
Thank you to NetGalley and Bolinda Audio for the ALC.
What a riveting, atmospheric novel. It's told through Eliza's POV, as she navigates her new life on this cold, unwelcoming island. The family's new neighbors start to make her and her husband question Eliza's sanity. It's a heartbreaking, yet frustrating experience for them all.
Róisín Rankin narrated the audiobook. I thought she did a great job at bringing Eliza and the island to life.
Recommended for fans of mysterious historical fiction stories.
Thank you to NetGalley and Bolinda Audio for the ALC.
September 11, 2025
I enjoyed the audiobook very much. A good narration which encompasses all the characters adequately and convincingly. The tragic story is also very well rendered and hearing it spoken makes it even more realistic! Definitely a great read and a great audiobook.
I received a digital copy of this novel as an audiobook from NetGalley and I have voluntarily written an honest review.
I received a digital copy of this novel as an audiobook from NetGalley and I have voluntarily written an honest review.
March 24, 2025
Skellig Michael, known for its iconic scenery on the big screen and as a popular tourist spot, transforms into an isolated and desolate prison in June O’Sullivan’s highly anticipated debut novel.
Set on the remote island in 1867, The Lighthouse Keeper’s Wife tells a tragic tale of exile — at least, that’s how the titular character, Eliza Carthy, experiences it.
Read my full review for the Irish Examiner here: https://www.irishexaminer.com/lifesty...
Set on the remote island in 1867, The Lighthouse Keeper’s Wife tells a tragic tale of exile — at least, that’s how the titular character, Eliza Carthy, experiences it.
Read my full review for the Irish Examiner here: https://www.irishexaminer.com/lifesty...
September 4, 2025
I received an audio ALC from NetGalley, beautifully narrated by Roisin Rankin.
This is a haunting piece of historical fiction with a gothic edge, set on Skellig Michael in Ireland in 1867. James Carthy, a lighthouse keeper, finally secures his dream post as principal keeper on the island, bringing his wife Eliza and their two young sons. Eliza soon discovers she’s expecting their third child, and must navigate the harsh terrain, isolation, and the psychological toll of being cut off from civilisation. But she has a loving relationship with her husband and children.
Life becomes more complicated when the assistant keeper Edmund and his wife Ruth arrive. Cold, distant, and quietly undermining James at every turn, they bring with them an unsettling tension. As tragedies unfold, the treachery of the island mirrors the duplicity of Edmund and Ruth, leaving Eliza fighting to protect her family and herself.
The atmosphere is striking—gothic, lonely, and wild. June O'Sullivan captures the raw beauty and danger of Skellig Michael, making the island itself feel like a character. Eliza, too, is wonderfully complex: at times frustrating, but ultimately strong, resourceful, and unforgettable.
The narration is excellent—Roisin Rankin’s delivery and the lilt of different regional Irish accents perfectly transport you to the windswept rock. The story, though tragic and not at all lighthearted, is gripping, beautifully told, and lingers long after the final chapter.
Based on the author’s research into the island’s lighthouses and history, this is both atmospheric and utterly compelling. I absolutely loved it and highly recommend it.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC. All opinions are my own.
This is a haunting piece of historical fiction with a gothic edge, set on Skellig Michael in Ireland in 1867. James Carthy, a lighthouse keeper, finally secures his dream post as principal keeper on the island, bringing his wife Eliza and their two young sons. Eliza soon discovers she’s expecting their third child, and must navigate the harsh terrain, isolation, and the psychological toll of being cut off from civilisation. But she has a loving relationship with her husband and children.
Life becomes more complicated when the assistant keeper Edmund and his wife Ruth arrive. Cold, distant, and quietly undermining James at every turn, they bring with them an unsettling tension. As tragedies unfold, the treachery of the island mirrors the duplicity of Edmund and Ruth, leaving Eliza fighting to protect her family and herself.
The atmosphere is striking—gothic, lonely, and wild. June O'Sullivan captures the raw beauty and danger of Skellig Michael, making the island itself feel like a character. Eliza, too, is wonderfully complex: at times frustrating, but ultimately strong, resourceful, and unforgettable.
The narration is excellent—Roisin Rankin’s delivery and the lilt of different regional Irish accents perfectly transport you to the windswept rock. The story, though tragic and not at all lighthearted, is gripping, beautifully told, and lingers long after the final chapter.
Based on the author’s research into the island’s lighthouses and history, this is both atmospheric and utterly compelling. I absolutely loved it and highly recommend it.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC. All opinions are my own.
September 20, 2025
Oh what a powerful emotional story this was, set in 1867, on a lighthouse off the cost of Ireland, I felt for Eliza and her situation on that lonely island, her family, the work colleagues they had to deal with, her heartbreak and hope. I cried for her and her sons. I LOVED this book
December 22, 2024
Absolutely no words. Must read. Prepare to be devastated in the best possible way. The writing. The characters. The story. The emotions. Perfection. Was honored to receive this advanced copy and more than willing to share my review. This deserves a thousands awards and recognition. Please don’t miss out on this incredibly devastating novel.
December 30, 2024
This book is not going to take you to your “happy place” but it is very well written and a great read. It is a story of despair, loneliness, tragedy, betrayal and survival. A ‘salty prison’ describes it well. Recommended.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
March 3, 2025
Atmospheric!
January 13, 2025
The Lighthouse Keeper’s Wife is the debut novel from Irish writer June O’Sullivan and is published with Poolbeg Press. It is historical fiction set on the extremely isolated island of Skellig Michael in the Atlantic ocean off the coast of Co. Kerry and is described as ‘a heart-wrenching story of motherhood and survival’.
I have driven along the coastline of Kerry many times with Skellig Michael in sight and it’s an austere and unforgiving looking rock out in the midst of the Atlantic’s crashing waves. Inhabited by monks until the thirteenth century, it is now a UNESCO heritage site and is a place that visitors can travel to to witness for themselves the huts and the remains of the monastic settlement. I have yet to set foot on the island so I was really unaware of the fact that in the 1800s Skellig Lighthouse was established there, with the lighthouse keepers and their families living in the attached residences until the 1900s. June O’Sullivan lives in Co. Kerry and, following a visit to Skellig Michael, she was inspired to write this story, bringing the harsh lives of those who inhabited the island to life.
When Eliza Carthy married her lighthouse keeper husband James, she knew that his work would take them to various counties but at no time did she expect to be heading for an outlying island in the Atlantic ocean. With two small children to look after she was wary of the risks but was also aware of her husband’s passion for his job and his desire to be a solid provider for Eliza and the boys. Approximately 12 km away from the mainland, the journey across was made easy by the men who accompanied them with their luggage but, in the following few months, as they awaited for an assistant keeper, Eliza grew tired and lonely. With little to do and the two boys frustrated with the lack of space, the atmosphere grew tense at times but Eliza and James had a strong partnership and always were there for each other.
When news of the assistant and his wife’s imminent arrival reached them, Eliza was excited. Another female to chat to and to be in the company of was just what she had hoped for to drive away that clawing feeling of isolation. But as the weeks passed Eliza began to have doubts about the behaviour of her new neighbours. Ruth, the wife, could be very aloof and Edmund, her husband seemed to be a cold fish. Neither were what Eliza was hoping for but with the weather turning, she knew that she had to get on with things for James and for her two boys. But life on this desolate island was about to take a dark turn with unexpected behaviour and shocking consequences. Can Eliza keep her sanity and her family together?
With scenes that some readers may find traumatic, June O’Sullivan sensitively explores the depths of the human spirit and its ability to deal with loss, grief, greed and the enduring power of hope. A heart-breaking story of survival and resilience set against an extremely harsh background The Lighthouse Keeper’s Wife is a very poignant and vivid debut.
My Rating ~ 3.5*
I have driven along the coastline of Kerry many times with Skellig Michael in sight and it’s an austere and unforgiving looking rock out in the midst of the Atlantic’s crashing waves. Inhabited by monks until the thirteenth century, it is now a UNESCO heritage site and is a place that visitors can travel to to witness for themselves the huts and the remains of the monastic settlement. I have yet to set foot on the island so I was really unaware of the fact that in the 1800s Skellig Lighthouse was established there, with the lighthouse keepers and their families living in the attached residences until the 1900s. June O’Sullivan lives in Co. Kerry and, following a visit to Skellig Michael, she was inspired to write this story, bringing the harsh lives of those who inhabited the island to life.
When Eliza Carthy married her lighthouse keeper husband James, she knew that his work would take them to various counties but at no time did she expect to be heading for an outlying island in the Atlantic ocean. With two small children to look after she was wary of the risks but was also aware of her husband’s passion for his job and his desire to be a solid provider for Eliza and the boys. Approximately 12 km away from the mainland, the journey across was made easy by the men who accompanied them with their luggage but, in the following few months, as they awaited for an assistant keeper, Eliza grew tired and lonely. With little to do and the two boys frustrated with the lack of space, the atmosphere grew tense at times but Eliza and James had a strong partnership and always were there for each other.
When news of the assistant and his wife’s imminent arrival reached them, Eliza was excited. Another female to chat to and to be in the company of was just what she had hoped for to drive away that clawing feeling of isolation. But as the weeks passed Eliza began to have doubts about the behaviour of her new neighbours. Ruth, the wife, could be very aloof and Edmund, her husband seemed to be a cold fish. Neither were what Eliza was hoping for but with the weather turning, she knew that she had to get on with things for James and for her two boys. But life on this desolate island was about to take a dark turn with unexpected behaviour and shocking consequences. Can Eliza keep her sanity and her family together?
With scenes that some readers may find traumatic, June O’Sullivan sensitively explores the depths of the human spirit and its ability to deal with loss, grief, greed and the enduring power of hope. A heart-breaking story of survival and resilience set against an extremely harsh background The Lighthouse Keeper’s Wife is a very poignant and vivid debut.
My Rating ~ 3.5*
November 28, 2025
I am endlessly fascinated by lighthouses and the humans who inhabit these unique and solitary spots and I love the fiction that explores their stories.
Ireland in the 1800s and Eliza and her husband, James, cross the sea to Skellig Michael with their 2 young boys. James has been made Principal Keeper of the lighthouse. The island is bleak, solitary with only one other dwelling and an old, deserted monastery. Battered by wind and rain, are there others forces at work? A visitor to the island claims an unseen force has pushed him down the stairs to the monastery. When the assistant lighthouse keeper arrives with his wife, events take a terrible twist. The new couple are cold and unfriendly, hostile even to each other. Living in an increasingly hostile environment, Eliza struggles for her own survival and that of her children.
This started slowly with the author carefully building up the tension, describing this bleak and unforgiving island and observing the minutiae of lighthouse life. I barely had time to wonder where this was going before the story moved into a faster gear and I couldn’t put this down. The setting is one of the stars of the book. Beautifully observed and described. The author has prepared this so well, laying the seeds of doubt so that we question where the danger might come from for Eliza’s family. The dour couple next door; the hostile weather; the isolation; or could it possibly be something to do with the monastery and its graveyard. The characters are expertly drawn from the brave and indefatigable Eliza and her little boys to Jeremiah who rows the boat to bring provisions across. Set in the 1800s the author gives us a convincing depiction of victorian life for example with the birthing rituals and religion.
I really enjoyed this book. I loved Eliza’s family, hated the couple next door. My heart was in my mouth so often worrying what would happen to them. I adored the setting and it really satisfied my fascination for lighthouses - though after reading this I am never living in one! I read this at a very sad time for me and whilst it was very distracting and absorbing, I would advise readers that there is a lot of sadness in this story.
I listened to this on audiobook and read along with the book. The narrator was fabulous and perfectly matched for this book. The biggest compliment I can pay to her is that I loved listening to her tell this wonderful story.
Ireland in the 1800s and Eliza and her husband, James, cross the sea to Skellig Michael with their 2 young boys. James has been made Principal Keeper of the lighthouse. The island is bleak, solitary with only one other dwelling and an old, deserted monastery. Battered by wind and rain, are there others forces at work? A visitor to the island claims an unseen force has pushed him down the stairs to the monastery. When the assistant lighthouse keeper arrives with his wife, events take a terrible twist. The new couple are cold and unfriendly, hostile even to each other. Living in an increasingly hostile environment, Eliza struggles for her own survival and that of her children.
This started slowly with the author carefully building up the tension, describing this bleak and unforgiving island and observing the minutiae of lighthouse life. I barely had time to wonder where this was going before the story moved into a faster gear and I couldn’t put this down. The setting is one of the stars of the book. Beautifully observed and described. The author has prepared this so well, laying the seeds of doubt so that we question where the danger might come from for Eliza’s family. The dour couple next door; the hostile weather; the isolation; or could it possibly be something to do with the monastery and its graveyard. The characters are expertly drawn from the brave and indefatigable Eliza and her little boys to Jeremiah who rows the boat to bring provisions across. Set in the 1800s the author gives us a convincing depiction of victorian life for example with the birthing rituals and religion.
I really enjoyed this book. I loved Eliza’s family, hated the couple next door. My heart was in my mouth so often worrying what would happen to them. I adored the setting and it really satisfied my fascination for lighthouses - though after reading this I am never living in one! I read this at a very sad time for me and whilst it was very distracting and absorbing, I would advise readers that there is a lot of sadness in this story.
I listened to this on audiobook and read along with the book. The narrator was fabulous and perfectly matched for this book. The biggest compliment I can pay to her is that I loved listening to her tell this wonderful story.
September 21, 2025
The Lighthouse Keeper’s Wife by June O’Sullivan is an adult historical novel set in 1867 Ireland. It follows Eliza as she moves to the remote island of Skellig Michael with her husband James, the lighthouse keeper, and their sons Peter and Josef.
The world-building is fantastic. The island itself becomes a character, its isolation and wildness pressing in until the atmosphere feels almost unbearably claustrophobic. The pacing is perfectly judged—not a story of relentless plot turns, but a gradual deepening into island life, its hardships, and its quiet tragedies.
This is a profoundly character-driven novel. There are no sweeping dramas or theatrical twists, yet the events that unfold are poignant, often heartbreaking, and rendered with such intimacy that you live them alongside Eliza. She is a superb protagonist: relatable, sometimes unreliable in her narration, but utterly compelling in her humanity. By the end, I was completely immersed in her world and her struggles.
Without spoiling, I can say this: if you are drawn to historical fiction that focuses on character narratives over spectacle, and if you value stories that give voice to the silenced women of the past, this is unforgettable.
Five stars, and a broken heart.
The world-building is fantastic. The island itself becomes a character, its isolation and wildness pressing in until the atmosphere feels almost unbearably claustrophobic. The pacing is perfectly judged—not a story of relentless plot turns, but a gradual deepening into island life, its hardships, and its quiet tragedies.
This is a profoundly character-driven novel. There are no sweeping dramas or theatrical twists, yet the events that unfold are poignant, often heartbreaking, and rendered with such intimacy that you live them alongside Eliza. She is a superb protagonist: relatable, sometimes unreliable in her narration, but utterly compelling in her humanity. By the end, I was completely immersed in her world and her struggles.
Without spoiling, I can say this: if you are drawn to historical fiction that focuses on character narratives over spectacle, and if you value stories that give voice to the silenced women of the past, this is unforgettable.
Five stars, and a broken heart.
January 16, 2025
June O'Sullivan's first book, The Lighthouse Keeper's Wife, is heartbreakingly beautiful. It takes place in 1867 on the lonely Skellig Michael island. Eliza Carthy goes there with her husband, James, who's now the head lighthouse keeper. O'Sullivan actually visited the real lighthouse and does a flawless job bringing to harshness of this job and style of living to life - the isolation, danger, but also how amazing the place is.
Eliza is excited to help her husband and be a good wife and mom, but life on the island is tough. They're cut off from everyone else, the weather is terrible, and the island itself is dangerous. Then, another lighthouse keeper, Edmund, and his wife, Ruth, arrive. Eliza hopes they'll be friends, but things get strange. Edmund and Ruth act weird, and Eliza starts to wonder if she's going crazy.
O'Sullivan writes in a way that makes you feel like you're right there on the island. The Lighthouse Keeper's Wife is a powerful story that broke me in so many ways. This novel will stay with me for a long time. Bravo to O’Sullivan for a phenomenal debut novel.
I received a free copy and am leaving this review voluntarily. Thank you Book Sirens.
Eliza is excited to help her husband and be a good wife and mom, but life on the island is tough. They're cut off from everyone else, the weather is terrible, and the island itself is dangerous. Then, another lighthouse keeper, Edmund, and his wife, Ruth, arrive. Eliza hopes they'll be friends, but things get strange. Edmund and Ruth act weird, and Eliza starts to wonder if she's going crazy.
O'Sullivan writes in a way that makes you feel like you're right there on the island. The Lighthouse Keeper's Wife is a powerful story that broke me in so many ways. This novel will stay with me for a long time. Bravo to O’Sullivan for a phenomenal debut novel.
I received a free copy and am leaving this review voluntarily. Thank you Book Sirens.
May 14, 2025
Set against the unforgiving backdrop of Skellig Michael in 1867, this atmospheric historical novel explores isolation, duty, and the quiet unraveling of a woman’s world. Eliza Carthy’s pride in her husband’s lighthouse promotion quickly turns to unease as life on the jagged, storm-lashed rock becomes more isolating than she could have imagined.
O’Sullivan does an excellent job creating a vivid, windswept setting that becomes a character in its own right. The tension slowly builds as Eliza begins to question not just her surroundings, but her neighbors and eventually, her own mind. The characters are richly drawn, and the emotional undercurrent between Eliza and her family kept me invested throughout.
There were a few moments where I wished we’d gotten more clarity or deeper exploration, particularly in some of the psychological twists, but the lingering sense of unease was well executed and deeply compelling.
Haunting and introspective, this is perfect for readers who enjoy historical fiction steeped in atmosphere, with a steady descent into quiet suspense.
Thank you to the author and booksirens for the arc I an leaving this review with my honest opinion.
O’Sullivan does an excellent job creating a vivid, windswept setting that becomes a character in its own right. The tension slowly builds as Eliza begins to question not just her surroundings, but her neighbors and eventually, her own mind. The characters are richly drawn, and the emotional undercurrent between Eliza and her family kept me invested throughout.
There were a few moments where I wished we’d gotten more clarity or deeper exploration, particularly in some of the psychological twists, but the lingering sense of unease was well executed and deeply compelling.
Haunting and introspective, this is perfect for readers who enjoy historical fiction steeped in atmosphere, with a steady descent into quiet suspense.
Thank you to the author and booksirens for the arc I an leaving this review with my honest opinion.
September 1, 2025
🎧4⭐️
I had the audiobook of this debut historical fiction read by Roisin Rankin. I would describe it as general fiction. I just love Irish accents. The narrator is excellent, a joy to listen to. She really brings out the emotion. For me the narrator really added to my enjoyment of the book.
1857 Eliza, her husband lighthouse keeper principal James and two young boys are on the remote island of Skellig. It’s a harsh life and things don’t improve when the assistant and his wife arrive.
It’s a very slow character driven story. It shows how tough and lonely the lifestyle is for those who helped to keep mariners safe. It’s heart wrenching, you’re certainly immersed in Eliza’s grief and anguish. This is by no means a light easy listen, but once I gelled with Eliza I found it compelling, despite it having an uncomplicated plot.
It’s worth listening to the authors note for the inspiration for this story.
I had the audiobook of this debut historical fiction read by Roisin Rankin. I would describe it as general fiction. I just love Irish accents. The narrator is excellent, a joy to listen to. She really brings out the emotion. For me the narrator really added to my enjoyment of the book.
1857 Eliza, her husband lighthouse keeper principal James and two young boys are on the remote island of Skellig. It’s a harsh life and things don’t improve when the assistant and his wife arrive.
It’s a very slow character driven story. It shows how tough and lonely the lifestyle is for those who helped to keep mariners safe. It’s heart wrenching, you’re certainly immersed in Eliza’s grief and anguish. This is by no means a light easy listen, but once I gelled with Eliza I found it compelling, despite it having an uncomplicated plot.
It’s worth listening to the authors note for the inspiration for this story.
September 3, 2025
🎧Audiobook review🎧
1867, Eliza Carthy moves to the remote island of Skellig Michael with her lighthouse-keeper husband James and their two young sons. Isolated on 56 acres of rock in the Atlantic, completely reliant on occasional support boat visits, life is challenging.
The promised arrival of a new assistant keeper and his wife might provide welcome company, but not everybody always gets along.
The historical aspects aren’t overly detailed, this is about the characters and their struggle in difficult times. It’s well written, vivid and atmospheric. The audio narration by Róisín Rankin is very good, who doesn’t love an Irish accent?
You may expect it to be quite bleak and it is, very bleak. Behind the pretty cover lies a convincing tale of rugged hard times, even harder for Eliza as a devoted wife and mother.
Recommended, but possibly checked for content warnings.
Thanks to Netgalley and Bolinda Audio
1867, Eliza Carthy moves to the remote island of Skellig Michael with her lighthouse-keeper husband James and their two young sons. Isolated on 56 acres of rock in the Atlantic, completely reliant on occasional support boat visits, life is challenging.
The promised arrival of a new assistant keeper and his wife might provide welcome company, but not everybody always gets along.
The historical aspects aren’t overly detailed, this is about the characters and their struggle in difficult times. It’s well written, vivid and atmospheric. The audio narration by Róisín Rankin is very good, who doesn’t love an Irish accent?
You may expect it to be quite bleak and it is, very bleak. Behind the pretty cover lies a convincing tale of rugged hard times, even harder for Eliza as a devoted wife and mother.
Recommended, but possibly checked for content warnings.
Thanks to Netgalley and Bolinda Audio
September 19, 2025
I listened to the audiobook of this thanks to NetGalley. It was a very slow burn and to be honest I would not have read the print version, I feel I would have put it down after only a chapter or two. Not much of note really happens at first and I wasn’t heavily invested, but the narrator of the audiobook has a lovely voice and does several different Irish accents beautifully so it was nice enough to listen to even if I was only half aware of what was going on.
And then, oh my it takes a turn in about the last third. The gaslighting of Eliza is so sinister, and then the tragedy that befalls her family really shook me - most especially the unexpected events nearer to the end of the book! Had the whole story been told with the momentum of those last few chapters I would have been thoroughly engrossed from far earlier.
The setting is described gorgeously and you really get a feel for all the characters and the unforgiving location. It works well as an audiobook I feel.
And then, oh my it takes a turn in about the last third. The gaslighting of Eliza is so sinister, and then the tragedy that befalls her family really shook me - most especially the unexpected events nearer to the end of the book! Had the whole story been told with the momentum of those last few chapters I would have been thoroughly engrossed from far earlier.
The setting is described gorgeously and you really get a feel for all the characters and the unforgiving location. It works well as an audiobook I feel.
September 19, 2025
5 stars
5 stars
5 stars
5 stars
5 stars
This was one of the best books that I have listened to this year. and I listen to a lot of audiobooks.The narrator #Roisin Rankin was just so perfect for this story , she brought Eliza to life and made her story in her good times and bad times so real which made me feel as if I was living through it .Eliza was a wonderful Caring mother who lost so much . The narrator brought Ruth’s ruthless behaviour across so well . I went through so many emotions while listening to the story and even felt cold when the narrator described the whether.The author has done an excellent job in her writing this story and the authors note at the end surprised me and has made this book even more special .I will always remember this book .Thank you so much to #BolindaAudio and #NetGalley for given me the opportunity to listen to this .#goodreads reviewer and #Amazon reviewer.
5 stars
5 stars
5 stars
5 stars
This was one of the best books that I have listened to this year. and I listen to a lot of audiobooks.The narrator #Roisin Rankin was just so perfect for this story , she brought Eliza to life and made her story in her good times and bad times so real which made me feel as if I was living through it .Eliza was a wonderful Caring mother who lost so much . The narrator brought Ruth’s ruthless behaviour across so well . I went through so many emotions while listening to the story and even felt cold when the narrator described the whether.The author has done an excellent job in her writing this story and the authors note at the end surprised me and has made this book even more special .I will always remember this book .Thank you so much to #BolindaAudio and #NetGalley for given me the opportunity to listen to this .#goodreads reviewer and #Amazon reviewer.
September 25, 2025
This is a truly haunting and evocative tale, incredibly well narrated throughout. Right from the start I felt the narration was adding to the sense of sadness and isolation that’s a theme through this powerful story. Perfect. I’ve always been intrigued by stories of those who live in a lighthouse. There are similar stories in Scotland and this one, set in Ireland really captured the ruggedness and difficulty of life away from ordinary society. The significant difference in this take is that it’s from the woman’s perspective and Eliza allows the reader insight into the way these isolated communities work. June O’Sullivan has captured the harsh realities of life in these exceptional circumstances, but also creates empathy with the situation and I was captivated by the story from start to finish. It’s powerful and different and one I’ll listen to again as it really is a haunting tale.
My thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for an early review copy.
My thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for an early review copy.
September 10, 2025
Skellig Michael is an isolated, godforsaken pile of rocks where Eliza and her family relocate in the pursuance of her husband's new job as Principal Lighthouse-keeper. Eliza is determined to support Joseph and look after her small family - which includes their young son - as best she can under these daunting circumstances.
But when they are joined by a second family, where the husband is the deputy to the lighthouse-keeper, things do not turn out as Eliza had hoped. Quite the contrary.
Set in Ireland during the second half of the 19th century, this is an atmospheric and engaging story about the challenges of life as a lighthouse-keeper's wife. The narrator does a terrific job of delivering the story in an authentic voice, and it gets 3.5 stars.
I received a free copy of this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review
But when they are joined by a second family, where the husband is the deputy to the lighthouse-keeper, things do not turn out as Eliza had hoped. Quite the contrary.
Set in Ireland during the second half of the 19th century, this is an atmospheric and engaging story about the challenges of life as a lighthouse-keeper's wife. The narrator does a terrific job of delivering the story in an authentic voice, and it gets 3.5 stars.
I received a free copy of this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review
March 11, 2025
4.5 stars!
novel has it all! New beginnings on an isolated landscape, new life, betrayal, heartbreak, and bittersweet ending. It is based on real place with place with.factual historical information that has been altered a bit to fit the author's story (hence the historical fiction distinction).
The characters and storyline are interesting as is the real historical readings on the location. Consider looking it up as it made the author's story all the richer. All of this combined for a fantastic reading experience. The novel does become very dark in places but it ends with some hope in the end. Definitely recommend this author! Fabulous debut novel!!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily
novel has it all! New beginnings on an isolated landscape, new life, betrayal, heartbreak, and bittersweet ending. It is based on real place with place with.factual historical information that has been altered a bit to fit the author's story (hence the historical fiction distinction).
The characters and storyline are interesting as is the real historical readings on the location. Consider looking it up as it made the author's story all the richer. All of this combined for a fantastic reading experience. The novel does become very dark in places but it ends with some hope in the end. Definitely recommend this author! Fabulous debut novel!!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily
August 31, 2025
On a visit to The Skellig Experience in Ireland, we learned of two young boys who died on Skellig Michael, a former monastery turned lighthouse. In the 1860s, two young boys died while on the island. This story is a fictional retelling of two boys who die while their family is in the island as lighthouse keepers. There’s a glimpse into the harsh life and isolation of being a lighthouse keeper and a lighthouse keepers wife; moreso the resilience of women from the 1800s and all they endured. A great tale from an Irish author, local to Portmagee (port closes to Skellig Michael, 8 miles off the coast of Ireland).
September 3, 2025
5 stars
You know from the opening chapter that there is a sorrowful tale ahead but that doesn’t. make the story any less compelling. Clearly a lot of research went into this tale and even so the author admits her descriptions of life on the island is an easier version than the reality was and that is very hard to imagine.
Beautifully written and equally beautifully narrated. Had me in tears and thankful I was not a lighthouse keepers wife in the 1800’s.
The book made me curious about the island which is a real place so a little research on my part has revealed in photographs how accurate were the descriptions in the book of the family climbing up the rough steps the monks had made.
You know from the opening chapter that there is a sorrowful tale ahead but that doesn’t. make the story any less compelling. Clearly a lot of research went into this tale and even so the author admits her descriptions of life on the island is an easier version than the reality was and that is very hard to imagine.
Beautifully written and equally beautifully narrated. Had me in tears and thankful I was not a lighthouse keepers wife in the 1800’s.
The book made me curious about the island which is a real place so a little research on my part has revealed in photographs how accurate were the descriptions in the book of the family climbing up the rough steps the monks had made.
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