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Ballybeg #2
Love and Blarney
Married in Manhattan…
Ruairí MacCarthy abandoned his life in New York to deal with a family crisis in Ireland. Twelve months later, he’s traded his three-piece suits and Wall Street career for jeans and a job managing his family’s pub in Ballybeg. When his estranged wife bursts back into his life looking for reconciliation, Ruairí must decide if home is where the heart is.
…True Love in Ballybeg.
Jayme King wants Ruairí back. She’s prepared to battle sheep, floods, and crazy Irish in-laws to get him. Discovering he lied about his past was a shock, but Jayme’s had months come to terms with the betrayal. Letting Ruairí go was the biggest mistake of her life. Can she persuade him to return to America and give their marriage a second chance?
Ruairí MacCarthy abandoned his life in New York to deal with a family crisis in Ireland. Twelve months later, he’s traded his three-piece suits and Wall Street career for jeans and a job managing his family’s pub in Ballybeg. When his estranged wife bursts back into his life looking for reconciliation, Ruairí must decide if home is where the heart is.
…True Love in Ballybeg.
Jayme King wants Ruairí back. She’s prepared to battle sheep, floods, and crazy Irish in-laws to get him. Discovering he lied about his past was a shock, but Jayme’s had months come to terms with the betrayal. Letting Ruairí go was the biggest mistake of her life. Can she persuade him to return to America and give their marriage a second chance?
104 pages, ebook
First published August 12, 2014
148 people are currently reading
719 people want to read
About the author
Zara Keane
42 books987 followersZara Keane is a USA Today bestselling author of Irish cozy mysteries and romantic comedies.
Zara grew up in Dublin, Ireland, but spent her summers in a small town very similar to the fictitious Ballybeg and Smuggler's Cove.
She currently lives in Switzerland with her family. When she’s not writing, Zara loves knitting, running, unplugged gaming, and adding to her insanely large lipstick collection.
Don't miss a new story! For news, giveaways, and TWO free stories, sign up for Zara's Mailing List at https://zarakeane.com/newsletter/
Zara can also be found in her Facebook Reader Group, the Mystery Mavens.
Zara grew up in Dublin, Ireland, but spent her summers in a small town very similar to the fictitious Ballybeg and Smuggler's Cove.
She currently lives in Switzerland with her family. When she’s not writing, Zara loves knitting, running, unplugged gaming, and adding to her insanely large lipstick collection.
Don't miss a new story! For news, giveaways, and TWO free stories, sign up for Zara's Mailing List at https://zarakeane.com/newsletter/
Zara can also be found in her Facebook Reader Group, the Mystery Mavens.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 83 reviews
September 26, 2024
For me, Zara Keane's books are like pieces of chocolate you keep squirreled away for a time when you really need a treat. This one is just too short, and it looks like I'm going to require another real soon.
Ruairí MacCarthy left Ballybeg over 10 years ago vowing never to return. He got an education and settles into his new life in New York City as a high-powered stockbroker. He married a beautiful doctor, and they had a wonderful life. A family emergency has him leaving his home and wife not on the best of terms. Now, a year later he is settled and running the family pub and contemplating moving on with his life.
Jayme King has had a year to heal and contemplate the sudden disappearance of Ruairi from her life and even though she started divorce proceedings, she still loves him and wants him back. So, she flies across an ocean to make that happen. What she finds is that Ruairi had been less than truthful about his Irish family and a few other things. But she has a secret of her own. It seems that the only way forward is complete honesty from both of them.
Ruairí MacCarthy left Ballybeg over 10 years ago vowing never to return. He got an education and settles into his new life in New York City as a high-powered stockbroker. He married a beautiful doctor, and they had a wonderful life. A family emergency has him leaving his home and wife not on the best of terms. Now, a year later he is settled and running the family pub and contemplating moving on with his life.
Jayme King has had a year to heal and contemplate the sudden disappearance of Ruairi from her life and even though she started divorce proceedings, she still loves him and wants him back. So, she flies across an ocean to make that happen. What she finds is that Ruairi had been less than truthful about his Irish family and a few other things. But she has a secret of her own. It seems that the only way forward is complete honesty from both of them.
October 18, 2014
3 Stars! Sweet addition to this fun series, but it had the potential to be so much more!
Oh, how I wish the author would have made Ruairí and Jayme the stars of a full length book and not just given them a novella. It had the bones for a great second chance love story, but it was over before it even got started. My problem was, I didn’t get to fall in love with Ruairí and Jayme as much as they were in love with each other.
I had the pleasure of reading Love and Shenanigans a while ago and it got me hooked on this series, the author's distinct writing style, her fun quirky characters and their zany lives. Zara Keane has a tendency to reveal the main character's past history, their connection, a little later in the story, which worked in Love and Shenanigans, but unfortunately with this book I think she might lose some readers along the way. Why is that? Because, all the key details come at the tail end of the book, and readers aren’t baited with enough tidbits in the beginning. Due to the length of the story, it goes by way to quickly, and the reader/story connection felt like it was lost. I think a prologue, with some flashback details, would have added so much to Ruairí and Jayme's story, there was so much there to explore!
I’m certainly no author, but I know what I like, and with this author I wanted more, because she does more so well! However, I still enjoyed what I read, love the setting, the characters, and the accuracy and craziness of family life in Ireland.
I am really looking forward to reading about Jonas and Olivia in Love and Leprechauns, the third book in the Ballybeg series. Both these characters caught my attention in Love and Shenanigans, and I'm curious to see how their story plays out. I have no doubt the clever Zara Keane will do their story justice and make it an interesting and fun read!
* A copy of the book was provided by the author in exchange for an honest review*
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May 7, 2019
2.25 stars.
To be honest, I picked this book because it wasn't particularly long and it worked for two different reading challenges. It's set in Ireland and it's a place I've always wanted to go. This book didn't offer much because it was more of a novella. I haven't read anything else in this series but I'd say that these characters should have had a longer story. It all seemed a bit too rushed and compact. I didn't feel any of the sexual tension that was building up and I didn't connect with the characters. It was an okay story with okay characters. While I appreciated a little bit of the Irish culture and history, I would have liked to hear more about the hidden gems than the touristy spots.
I'm not likely to continue on with this series or the author.
To be honest, I picked this book because it wasn't particularly long and it worked for two different reading challenges. It's set in Ireland and it's a place I've always wanted to go. This book didn't offer much because it was more of a novella. I haven't read anything else in this series but I'd say that these characters should have had a longer story. It all seemed a bit too rushed and compact. I didn't feel any of the sexual tension that was building up and I didn't connect with the characters. It was an okay story with okay characters. While I appreciated a little bit of the Irish culture and history, I would have liked to hear more about the hidden gems than the touristy spots.
I'm not likely to continue on with this series or the author.
August 14, 2022
A short, sweet and quite predictable story of a married couple on the verge of divorce being given an opportunity to resolve their differences against the backdrop of a quaint Irish village.
The story moved smoothly, and I enjoyed meeting Ruairi and Jayme but didn’t feel as deep a connection to them as I did the couple in the first book of this series. I honestly spent most of my time reading this book repeating Ruairi’s name and hoping I was pronouncing it correctly. Roo Ree, not Roar Ree. His name didn’t take away from the enjoyment of the story, but it certainly distracted me several times.
The conflict between these two characters was resolved so quickly, I had to stop and think about what the problem between them actually was and why they were living on separate continents to begin with. With the exception of Ruairi’s father, I enjoyed meeting his family and touring the area, especially Blarney Castle. I will have to side with Ruairi, however, and decline getting on my hands and knees to kiss the Blarney Stone.
I enjoy this author’s writing style and voice and if romance isn’t your preferred genre, she has a seven (so far) book mystery series that looks to be a lot of fun that I also have on my to be read pile. Start with Dial P For Poison .
My Final Verdict: Overall, an enjoyable addition to this series and though they can be read as stand-alone stories, I recommend reading them in order to enjoy the development of the secondary characters. I’m looking forward to continuing this series with Love and Leprechauns .
Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy of Love and Blarney from the author in exchange for an honest review.
The story moved smoothly, and I enjoyed meeting Ruairi and Jayme but didn’t feel as deep a connection to them as I did the couple in the first book of this series. I honestly spent most of my time reading this book repeating Ruairi’s name and hoping I was pronouncing it correctly. Roo Ree, not Roar Ree. His name didn’t take away from the enjoyment of the story, but it certainly distracted me several times.
The conflict between these two characters was resolved so quickly, I had to stop and think about what the problem between them actually was and why they were living on separate continents to begin with. With the exception of Ruairi’s father, I enjoyed meeting his family and touring the area, especially Blarney Castle. I will have to side with Ruairi, however, and decline getting on my hands and knees to kiss the Blarney Stone.
I enjoy this author’s writing style and voice and if romance isn’t your preferred genre, she has a seven (so far) book mystery series that looks to be a lot of fun that I also have on my to be read pile. Start with Dial P For Poison .
My Final Verdict: Overall, an enjoyable addition to this series and though they can be read as stand-alone stories, I recommend reading them in order to enjoy the development of the secondary characters. I’m looking forward to continuing this series with Love and Leprechauns .
Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy of Love and Blarney from the author in exchange for an honest review.
January 17, 2017
Good read
This is a good book. I really liked Ruairi when he was introduced in the first book. He is the strong, silent type, the perfect bartender and you can tell he's had his heart broken before. Finding out what happened between him and Jayme kind of took away from his appeal to me. I liked Jayme and admire her for coming after her man. Once again I find the female character is the one who dominates the story. Which is fine with me I like strong female characters!
This is a good book. I really liked Ruairi when he was introduced in the first book. He is the strong, silent type, the perfect bartender and you can tell he's had his heart broken before. Finding out what happened between him and Jayme kind of took away from his appeal to me. I liked Jayme and admire her for coming after her man. Once again I find the female character is the one who dominates the story. Which is fine with me I like strong female characters!
August 15, 2014
Zara Keane gives her readers another delightful second chance love story with LOVE AND BLARNEY, the second book in her Ballybeg series set in the quaint Irish town of the same name. I'm always happy to be reading a romantic story about couples who love each other deeply despite being separated and like nothing better than paging through as it all works out.
Love and Blarney reunites Ruairi MacCarthy and Jayme King, a couple so desperately in love they married in a fairytale Manhattan wedding within six months of meeting and lived together blissfully for three years. Sharing so much with each other yet sharing so little at the same time. A family emergency forces Ruairi back to Ballybeg, but before doing so he has to tell his wife some of the secrets he's been keeping. And then he leaves her with no promise of return. A shocked and heartbroken Jayme goes through a devastating emergency of her own, alone and without her husband's support. As the day their divorce will be final nears she decides she must take one last chance to win her husband back and heads over to Ireland.
Much like Zara's first book, Love and Shenanigans, along with the Love story in Love and Blarney there are colorful characters, amusing dialogue, and matchmakers on every corner. Ruairi' s Mom and sisters give him appropriate rations for not telling anyone he'd gotten married when he was away in the states and warmly welcome Jayme into the family. I loved his sister's. They had the impish, scheming personalities of all younger sister's. Olivia makes an appearance and Gavin and Fiona are mentioned, but sadly no mention of cute little Wiggly-Poo. Love and Blarney is a quick, lighthearted read, that warmed my heart all the way up to the HEA ending. 4I would have really liked to have even more of Jayme and Ruairi's story. 4 stars
~Complimentary copy received in exchange for a honest review.
Love and Blarney reunites Ruairi MacCarthy and Jayme King, a couple so desperately in love they married in a fairytale Manhattan wedding within six months of meeting and lived together blissfully for three years. Sharing so much with each other yet sharing so little at the same time. A family emergency forces Ruairi back to Ballybeg, but before doing so he has to tell his wife some of the secrets he's been keeping. And then he leaves her with no promise of return. A shocked and heartbroken Jayme goes through a devastating emergency of her own, alone and without her husband's support. As the day their divorce will be final nears she decides she must take one last chance to win her husband back and heads over to Ireland.
Much like Zara's first book, Love and Shenanigans, along with the Love story in Love and Blarney there are colorful characters, amusing dialogue, and matchmakers on every corner. Ruairi' s Mom and sisters give him appropriate rations for not telling anyone he'd gotten married when he was away in the states and warmly welcome Jayme into the family. I loved his sister's. They had the impish, scheming personalities of all younger sister's. Olivia makes an appearance and Gavin and Fiona are mentioned, but sadly no mention of cute little Wiggly-Poo. Love and Blarney is a quick, lighthearted read, that warmed my heart all the way up to the HEA ending. 4I would have really liked to have even more of Jayme and Ruairi's story. 4 stars
~Complimentary copy received in exchange for a honest review.
December 19, 2014
Ruairí MacCarthy is an immensely likable hero. He’s obviously still saddened by the breakup of his marriage—and bitterly regrets not telling his pediatrician wife that his past is mired in family troubles of one sort and another. But he’s a loyal son and brother and he’s doing what has to be done (he thinks!). Jayme King is a darling, much tougher than the woman Ruairí remembers.
I would have loved the story to be a bit longer but thank goodness, there are more Ballybeg books to enjoy.
I would have loved the story to be a bit longer but thank goodness, there are more Ballybeg books to enjoy.
September 9, 2016
Short and not particularly deep, Love and Blarney is an inoffensive tale without much conflict and just as little romance. It's more a slice-of-life peek at the lives of a couple whose marriage has hit a blip brought on by a complete lack of communication. Yet, that lack is believable under the circumstances. (I've known people who have made similar choices for similar reason.)
October 12, 2025
Author: Zara Keane
Title: Love and Blarney
Series: Ballybeg
Cover Rating:
Silver Star
Book Rating:
2 Stars
About the Book:
Married in Manhattan…
Ruairí MacCarthy abandoned his life in New York to deal with a family crisis in Ireland. Twelve months later, he’s traded his three-piece suits and Wall Street career for jeans and a job managing his family’s pub in Ballybeg. When his estranged wife bursts back into his life looking for reconciliation, Ruairí must decide if home is where the heart is.
…True Love in Ballybeg.
Jayme King wants Ruairí back. She’s prepared to battle sheep, floods, and crazy Irish in-laws to get him. Discovering he lied about his past was a shock, but Jayme’s had months come to terms with the betrayal. Letting Ruairí go was the biggest mistake of her life. Can she persuade him to return to America and give their marriage a second chance?
My Thoughts:
The low rating is mostly my fault because I haven't read the first book and I have no way of knowing if this quicky novella is connected to the first book in the Ballybeg series or not or how it fits in or what Jayme and Ruairi have to do with it or what their history is which left me feeling a little lost and more than a little confused.
That however didn't take away from the emotional aspect of them struggling to hold onto a relationship that has basically died off due to the lack in communication between them. I'm sure a lot of people will be able to connect with that issue since many people these days divorce for a lot less.
Still worth the read but if you're like me and missing out on a large chunk of why this novella matters I suggest finding out if it has anything to do with the first book in the Ballybeg series.
Disclaimer:
Krissys Bookshelf Reviews received a digital copy in exchange for an honest review from the author. All thoughts, comments and ratings are my own.
Note:
If any of Krissy's Bookshelf Reviews has been helpful please stop by to like my post or leave a comment to let me know what you think. I love hearing from you!
Title: Love and Blarney
Series: Ballybeg
Cover Rating:
Silver Star
Book Rating:
2 Stars
About the Book:
Married in Manhattan…
Ruairí MacCarthy abandoned his life in New York to deal with a family crisis in Ireland. Twelve months later, he’s traded his three-piece suits and Wall Street career for jeans and a job managing his family’s pub in Ballybeg. When his estranged wife bursts back into his life looking for reconciliation, Ruairí must decide if home is where the heart is.
…True Love in Ballybeg.
Jayme King wants Ruairí back. She’s prepared to battle sheep, floods, and crazy Irish in-laws to get him. Discovering he lied about his past was a shock, but Jayme’s had months come to terms with the betrayal. Letting Ruairí go was the biggest mistake of her life. Can she persuade him to return to America and give their marriage a second chance?
My Thoughts:
The low rating is mostly my fault because I haven't read the first book and I have no way of knowing if this quicky novella is connected to the first book in the Ballybeg series or not or how it fits in or what Jayme and Ruairi have to do with it or what their history is which left me feeling a little lost and more than a little confused.
That however didn't take away from the emotional aspect of them struggling to hold onto a relationship that has basically died off due to the lack in communication between them. I'm sure a lot of people will be able to connect with that issue since many people these days divorce for a lot less.
Still worth the read but if you're like me and missing out on a large chunk of why this novella matters I suggest finding out if it has anything to do with the first book in the Ballybeg series.
Disclaimer:
Krissys Bookshelf Reviews received a digital copy in exchange for an honest review from the author. All thoughts, comments and ratings are my own.
Note:
If any of Krissy's Bookshelf Reviews has been helpful please stop by to like my post or leave a comment to let me know what you think. I love hearing from you!
December 4, 2019
Misunderstandings, lied by omission, secrets were kept from Jayme by her soon to be ex husband Ruairí. His family don’t even know he’s married and Jayme doesn’t know his family is still alive with a few bad seeds. It wasn’t a bad story but I felt like there could be a bit more added instead of a quick story, especially when Jayme told him why she never took his calls or replied to emails, it was pretty much glossed over, a sad cry then hopping into sexy times... There was another woman’s named for his ‘date’ but Jayme forced herself back into his life before the date could happen, also he never strayed after his leaving New York to when Jayme arrives. As for Jayme, you will understand why when you read it, it’s a sad and touching but brief explanation.
August 31, 2017
2.5 stars
I was hopeful when I started reading this--I do adore a romance set in Ireland, and I'm particularly fond of Cork. I didn't feel that I really got a feel for Ireland here, and even though the H/h were an established couple from the beginning, the story just skimmed along the surface. We never get to know the characters very well. They remain sketches rather than becoming portraits, with only the barest glimpses at what has kept them apart for a year and precipitated their pending divorce. I wanted more to sink my teeth into.
I was hopeful when I started reading this--I do adore a romance set in Ireland, and I'm particularly fond of Cork. I didn't feel that I really got a feel for Ireland here, and even though the H/h were an established couple from the beginning, the story just skimmed along the surface. We never get to know the characters very well. They remain sketches rather than becoming portraits, with only the barest glimpses at what has kept them apart for a year and precipitated their pending divorce. I wanted more to sink my teeth into.
November 26, 2017
After Love and Shenanigans I knew I'd need to read more of the goings on in this fictitious small town. I like Zara Keane's even writing style.
This short story spans only a few days, followed by an epilogue "7 months later" (with somewhat predictable content). Ruairí plays a small role in the first book, but this can be read as a stand alone. I had to smirk at his sisters' attempts to help the reconciliation of the couple along. Overall light-hearted, despite some serious content.
I received a free copy from the author and decided to post my honest review.
This short story spans only a few days, followed by an epilogue "7 months later" (with somewhat predictable content). Ruairí plays a small role in the first book, but this can be read as a stand alone. I had to smirk at his sisters' attempts to help the reconciliation of the couple along. Overall light-hearted, despite some serious content.
I received a free copy from the author and decided to post my honest review.
February 12, 2018
Honestly, I hadn't been expecting the second book in the Ballybeg series to be so short but it was a really sweet read! I loved learning about the woman who had been in the mysterious pub owner's life from the first book!
It was nice as an American to have certain parts phrased so that I could understand them due to Jayme also being American and traveling to Ireland to get some closure with her husband.
The secret she'd been hiding was a little heart wrenching but I like that Zara Keane drew some attention towards the topic!
It was nice as an American to have certain parts phrased so that I could understand them due to Jayme also being American and traveling to Ireland to get some closure with her husband.
The secret she'd been hiding was a little heart wrenching but I like that Zara Keane drew some attention towards the topic!
May 30, 2017
Zara Keane doesn't disappoint with this second installment of the Ballybeg series. The beautiful setting in Ireland makes me want to go there. The characters were fascinating and well developed. Ruairi is a hunk of a man and sounds like the perfect dream man while Jamye is the perfect educated woman. Together, they make magic. I'm already starting the third book because I can't wait to read it today.
November 12, 2017
Short in more ways than one
Typical kindle lack of decent editing or proofing. This is a pretty short story..with a bit of story missing as well. I liked the characters but wish it was all fleshed out a bit more
Typical kindle lack of decent editing or proofing. This is a pretty short story..with a bit of story missing as well. I liked the characters but wish it was all fleshed out a bit more
December 8, 2017
I liked this book, but it was so short that the plot seemed to stop suddenly. Just not quite enough there to make me happy. Otherwise the setting and characters were pleasant enough. I don't remember the first book in this series being so abbreviated.
April 9, 2018
It is a good story but the Hero's attitude annoyed me to be honest. The heroine basically had to chase him down. She ignored his calls but he had told an epic lie, despite his 'I omitted the truth, I didn't lie' excuse.
No cheating, HEA and an epilogue.
No cheating, HEA and an epilogue.
December 3, 2019
This is a quick read that is a really sweet, second chance romance. We met Ruairi in Love and Shenanigans and in this story we get to meet his wife, Jayme and find out what happened to his marriage. The characters of Ballybeg are great and I look forward to more of this series.
February 21, 2019
Sweet
This was a good book to read. I liked the characters and their story. I just wish it would be longer to read
This was a good book to read. I liked the characters and their story. I just wish it would be longer to read
June 21, 2020
Delightful look into Ruairi's family and meeting the unknown wife and whether they can address the issues and make it work. Did not shy away from difficult issues
July 15, 2020
Easy quick read
July 24, 2021
Sweet
I liked the storyline and it makes me want to read more of this series. Will definitely be ordering other books.
I liked the storyline and it makes me want to read more of this series. Will definitely be ordering other books.
June 20, 2022
What a joy to visit Ballybeg again! Ruairi and Jayme are adorable.
May 28, 2017
Really sweet, loveable, vivid characters, beautiful description of the scenery. Some moments in the story are written so clearly that you automatically start to reel off a film before your mind's eye.I forgot to mention I received this book by insta freebie in return for an honest review. Well, I am hooked now and will probably end up buying the entire series....
August 5, 2014
Copy received from the author for an honest review
Love and Blarney is a novella in the Ballybeg series, and you dont not have to have read Love And Shenanigans first, but why would you want to miss out on the sweet fun read that it is.
Jayme and Ruairi's (Rory) marriage is in tatters, divorce about to become final and they are on opposite sides of the Atlantic. Misunderstandings, miscommunications and stubbornness have gotten them where they are today.
I loved that Jayme was the one to "man" up and travel across the globe to confront Ruairi about their situation. How strong she must have been to do that, with the fear of his rejection - again - at the forefront of her mind. I am pretty darn sure that I could not have done that.
I was a bit surprised with Ruairi's reaction at first, but as we got deeper into the story it was understandable - kind of? Some of the reasoning behind the leaving and the secrets and lies were a bit flimsy, but when your heart is breaking we don't always do the sensible thing.
I LOVED Ruairi's family - well, not his dad, but his mum and sisters, especially Sharon and Marcella. Love how they are all in each other's business, especially his and Jayme's, playing matchmaker.
So, will Ruairi and Jayme put the mistakes of their past behind them and have that fantastic relationship they used to have, or is it all too late for a HEA?
Uh Uh, for that you are going to have to read for yourself.
“If I do this, it’s because I’m insane or insanely in love,” he muttered underneath his breath.
Jayme’s heart skipped a beat. “I’m kind of hoping it’s the latter.”
His warm brown eyes met hers. “You know how I feel about you.”
“Do I?”
Ms Keane writes so descriptively that you can feel yourself being drawn into the landscape of the story. You can feel the cold rain, see the green fields of the countryside, imagine yourself up in the Blarney Castle, leaning back to kiss the Blarney Stone (and I whole heartedly agree with Ruairi, that thing has gotta be a hotbed of disease - cold sores anybody eeeww!!)
I was completely enthralled with Love and Blarney, read it in one sitting and didn't want it to ever end.
So Ms Keane, when can I have the next installment of the Ballybeg series?
Love and Blarney is a novella in the Ballybeg series, and you dont not have to have read Love And Shenanigans first, but why would you want to miss out on the sweet fun read that it is.
Jayme and Ruairi's (Rory) marriage is in tatters, divorce about to become final and they are on opposite sides of the Atlantic. Misunderstandings, miscommunications and stubbornness have gotten them where they are today.
I loved that Jayme was the one to "man" up and travel across the globe to confront Ruairi about their situation. How strong she must have been to do that, with the fear of his rejection - again - at the forefront of her mind. I am pretty darn sure that I could not have done that.
I was a bit surprised with Ruairi's reaction at first, but as we got deeper into the story it was understandable - kind of? Some of the reasoning behind the leaving and the secrets and lies were a bit flimsy, but when your heart is breaking we don't always do the sensible thing.
I LOVED Ruairi's family - well, not his dad, but his mum and sisters, especially Sharon and Marcella. Love how they are all in each other's business, especially his and Jayme's, playing matchmaker.
So, will Ruairi and Jayme put the mistakes of their past behind them and have that fantastic relationship they used to have, or is it all too late for a HEA?
Uh Uh, for that you are going to have to read for yourself.
“If I do this, it’s because I’m insane or insanely in love,” he muttered underneath his breath.
Jayme’s heart skipped a beat. “I’m kind of hoping it’s the latter.”
His warm brown eyes met hers. “You know how I feel about you.”
“Do I?”
Ms Keane writes so descriptively that you can feel yourself being drawn into the landscape of the story. You can feel the cold rain, see the green fields of the countryside, imagine yourself up in the Blarney Castle, leaning back to kiss the Blarney Stone (and I whole heartedly agree with Ruairi, that thing has gotta be a hotbed of disease - cold sores anybody eeeww!!)
I was completely enthralled with Love and Blarney, read it in one sitting and didn't want it to ever end.
So Ms Keane, when can I have the next installment of the Ballybeg series?
August 17, 2014
Originally posted on Dreaming With Open Eyes
I kindly received Love and Blarney in exchange of an honest review by the author via Netgalley.
Love and Blarney is the second story (novella) in Zara Kean's Ballybag series. It can be read as a stand alone but I recommend reading the books in order. Love and Shenanigans is the first book (full length novel) in the series and came out 17th May this year.
Love and Blarney is about Jayme and Ruarí (spoken as Rory). We meet Ruarí for the first in Love and Shenanigans were he gets introduced to us as Ballybag's pub ower. Ruarí left Ireland 10 years ago. He cut ties with his family and he never had the intention to come back home. After being in New York for seven years Ruarí met Jayme. They fell in love very fast and rushed things by getting after 6 months of dating. They were happy for more than two years until Ruarí suddenly dropped everything to go back to Ireland to sort out a family crisis.
A year later their divorce is about to become final. Their marrige was overshadowed with missunderstandings, secrecy and not enough communication. Now Jayme is sure of one thing: She wants Ruarí back and give their marrige a second chance. So Jayme flies all over the Atlantic to rural Ireland. Perhaps there was hope after all?
The only thing I have to complain about Love and Blarney is that it's so short! I would have loved to read so much more about Jayme and Ruarí. I've read this in one sitting which was about one and a half hour. We are talking about a novella here, so things are moving fast. It fits perfectly for story. As we get deeper into the story we meet Ruarí's family which I thought was adorable (surely not his father!). They just have the typical irish charm and are so welcoming.
One of the most things I love about Kean's writing is that she always gets me and transports me right back to Ireland. I love how she describes the places her characters go to. Especially in this story, it's Blarney Castle. I've been there once and it's wonderful. I felt to connected to the characters, it felt like I was there with them. The tension between those two is great. It's not overdone in any way. When Jayme and Ruarí get closer again and it's getting steamy, the scenes are very well written!
I'm not telling any more no. Just get your copies of this great series and convince yourself. I am already looking forward the the next release of the Ballybag series. It's called Love and Leprechauns and is going to be released in November this year.
I kindly received Love and Blarney in exchange of an honest review by the author via Netgalley.
Love and Blarney is the second story (novella) in Zara Kean's Ballybag series. It can be read as a stand alone but I recommend reading the books in order. Love and Shenanigans is the first book (full length novel) in the series and came out 17th May this year.
Love and Blarney is about Jayme and Ruarí (spoken as Rory). We meet Ruarí for the first in Love and Shenanigans were he gets introduced to us as Ballybag's pub ower. Ruarí left Ireland 10 years ago. He cut ties with his family and he never had the intention to come back home. After being in New York for seven years Ruarí met Jayme. They fell in love very fast and rushed things by getting after 6 months of dating. They were happy for more than two years until Ruarí suddenly dropped everything to go back to Ireland to sort out a family crisis.
A year later their divorce is about to become final. Their marrige was overshadowed with missunderstandings, secrecy and not enough communication. Now Jayme is sure of one thing: She wants Ruarí back and give their marrige a second chance. So Jayme flies all over the Atlantic to rural Ireland. Perhaps there was hope after all?
The only thing I have to complain about Love and Blarney is that it's so short! I would have loved to read so much more about Jayme and Ruarí. I've read this in one sitting which was about one and a half hour. We are talking about a novella here, so things are moving fast. It fits perfectly for story. As we get deeper into the story we meet Ruarí's family which I thought was adorable (surely not his father!). They just have the typical irish charm and are so welcoming.
One of the most things I love about Kean's writing is that she always gets me and transports me right back to Ireland. I love how she describes the places her characters go to. Especially in this story, it's Blarney Castle. I've been there once and it's wonderful. I felt to connected to the characters, it felt like I was there with them. The tension between those two is great. It's not overdone in any way. When Jayme and Ruarí get closer again and it's getting steamy, the scenes are very well written!
I'm not telling any more no. Just get your copies of this great series and convince yourself. I am already looking forward the the next release of the Ballybag series. It's called Love and Leprechauns and is going to be released in November this year.
August 21, 2014
If your spouse fled halfway across the world amid half-truths and anger, would you let them go or would you try and salvage what once was? That's the situation Jayme and Ruairí find themselves in when Jayme comes to Ballybeg to reclaim her man.
Jayme King is on her way to Ballybeg, Ireland to try and salvage any scrap of a marriage that may be left to her estranged husband of a year, Ruairí MacCarthy. Ruairí now owns a pub and is getting ready to move on with his life; in fact he had a date the very night Jayme traveled 3,000 miles to see him. When he walked out of her life after lying to her about his past, leaving America for Ireland, she was devastated. Attempts to reconnect have been met with resistance by both of them.
Ruairí's not thrilled to see her at all, and Jayme's heart is breaking all over again. He never told his family he was married. He never told her his family was alive. Now confronted with his lies and half-truths and omissions, not to mention Ruairí's hostility and ambivalence, Jayme didn't know her pain could get any worse than it already was. But Jayme is determined to find out if their marriage can be salvaged, and little by little, bit by bit, Ruairí is thawing toward her. Can a week together bring them back from the brink of divorce or will it solidify their decisions made all those months ago?
LOVE AND BLARNEY is the second book in The Ballybeg series and is a solid, gut-wrenching addition. My heart was in my stomach when Ruairí first saw Jayme and treated her so coldly, but gradually he thawed toward her. I couldn't believe how he lied about his family being dead and conversely how he never told anyone in Ireland he was married! While I can understand his reasons for keeping secrets, their marriage was built on a lie to begin with and didn't have a chance until he came clean. I enjoyed the fact that though this book was short, it still packed an emotional punch. The two recognized their need to talk a lot of things out, and though it didn't happen immediately, they finally bit the bullet and confessed what was in their hearts and minds.
LOVE AND BLARNEY is a well written and sweet romance that fans of the genre will enjoy. Other than a few chaste kisses and one brief sex scene, the focus in this book was more on rekindling a love and building on what was skipped over the first time around. All in all, this is a good, sweet story with a HEA that will make you believe true love exists.
Jayme King is on her way to Ballybeg, Ireland to try and salvage any scrap of a marriage that may be left to her estranged husband of a year, Ruairí MacCarthy. Ruairí now owns a pub and is getting ready to move on with his life; in fact he had a date the very night Jayme traveled 3,000 miles to see him. When he walked out of her life after lying to her about his past, leaving America for Ireland, she was devastated. Attempts to reconnect have been met with resistance by both of them.
Ruairí's not thrilled to see her at all, and Jayme's heart is breaking all over again. He never told his family he was married. He never told her his family was alive. Now confronted with his lies and half-truths and omissions, not to mention Ruairí's hostility and ambivalence, Jayme didn't know her pain could get any worse than it already was. But Jayme is determined to find out if their marriage can be salvaged, and little by little, bit by bit, Ruairí is thawing toward her. Can a week together bring them back from the brink of divorce or will it solidify their decisions made all those months ago?
LOVE AND BLARNEY is the second book in The Ballybeg series and is a solid, gut-wrenching addition. My heart was in my stomach when Ruairí first saw Jayme and treated her so coldly, but gradually he thawed toward her. I couldn't believe how he lied about his family being dead and conversely how he never told anyone in Ireland he was married! While I can understand his reasons for keeping secrets, their marriage was built on a lie to begin with and didn't have a chance until he came clean. I enjoyed the fact that though this book was short, it still packed an emotional punch. The two recognized their need to talk a lot of things out, and though it didn't happen immediately, they finally bit the bullet and confessed what was in their hearts and minds.
LOVE AND BLARNEY is a well written and sweet romance that fans of the genre will enjoy. Other than a few chaste kisses and one brief sex scene, the focus in this book was more on rekindling a love and building on what was skipped over the first time around. All in all, this is a good, sweet story with a HEA that will make you believe true love exists.
April 18, 2015
I was kindly gifted this book in exchange for my honest opinion and a review.
This is the second book in the Ballybeg series you can read this brilliant book in order or as a stand alone.
I was so excited to read about the mysterious Ruairí from the snippets in book one i new he was one to watch out for and i was spot on.
Ruairí MacCarthy and Jayme King got married in Manhattan and were happy until Ruairí left his life in New York to deal with a family crisis in Ireland but in doing this he left behind someone very important to him his wife . know Twelve months later, he has traded in suits and his once Wall Street career for jeans and a job taking care of his family’s pub in Ballybeg. Just When his life is settled or so he thinks his estranged wife bursts right back on the scene and right back into his life looking for reconciliation that she so craves, Ruairí has a hard decision he must decide if home is truly where the heart is.
Jayme King knows she has made a big mistake in letting her husband go and now she is in Ireland and wants Ruairí back. She’s prepared to battle anything even her crazy Irish in-laws to get him back. Jayme soon Discovers Ruairí has lied about his past and what a shock to her it is, but Jayme has had months come to terms with the betrayal.
Can she persuade him to return with her back to America and give their marriage a go once again or will she fall in love with Ballybeg just as much as she is in love with her husband.
This book is brilliant very cleverly written with some twists and turns from the characters which set the book up so nicely.
I loved Ruairí family as dysfunctional as they where most of them try to make the most out of there life just like his little sister Sharon, i had a little cry over his mum she is a fighter bless her.
I adore Sharon she is so spunky and misunderstood i really think she has a great heart underneath and especially after everything she has and is going through, she is the one character that stood out for me i simply cant wait to read more from her.
Another great book from Zara Keane,
4 Out Of 5 From Cariad Books
This is the second book in the Ballybeg series you can read this brilliant book in order or as a stand alone.
I was so excited to read about the mysterious Ruairí from the snippets in book one i new he was one to watch out for and i was spot on.
Ruairí MacCarthy and Jayme King got married in Manhattan and were happy until Ruairí left his life in New York to deal with a family crisis in Ireland but in doing this he left behind someone very important to him his wife . know Twelve months later, he has traded in suits and his once Wall Street career for jeans and a job taking care of his family’s pub in Ballybeg. Just When his life is settled or so he thinks his estranged wife bursts right back on the scene and right back into his life looking for reconciliation that she so craves, Ruairí has a hard decision he must decide if home is truly where the heart is.
Jayme King knows she has made a big mistake in letting her husband go and now she is in Ireland and wants Ruairí back. She’s prepared to battle anything even her crazy Irish in-laws to get him back. Jayme soon Discovers Ruairí has lied about his past and what a shock to her it is, but Jayme has had months come to terms with the betrayal.
Can she persuade him to return with her back to America and give their marriage a go once again or will she fall in love with Ballybeg just as much as she is in love with her husband.
This book is brilliant very cleverly written with some twists and turns from the characters which set the book up so nicely.
I loved Ruairí family as dysfunctional as they where most of them try to make the most out of there life just like his little sister Sharon, i had a little cry over his mum she is a fighter bless her.
I adore Sharon she is so spunky and misunderstood i really think she has a great heart underneath and especially after everything she has and is going through, she is the one character that stood out for me i simply cant wait to read more from her.
Another great book from Zara Keane,
4 Out Of 5 From Cariad Books
August 16, 2014
I'm falling in love with this series in a big way. Not only are the characters and their stories interesting and less formulaic than most of the other romances I've read, I feel like I've been transported to a small seaside town in Ireland every time I read one. It's like a mini-vacation in a book, and really, what's better than that?
In Love and Blarney, the story centers around Ruairí MacCarthy, local pub owner. Years ago, he left Ballybeg for New York, thinking he'd never return. But now he's back to take care of the pub and some pressing family issues.
Ruairí has some loose ends to clean up. For one, he's left behind a wife in New York that no one knows about. He's never told her details about his family, and both of his worlds collide when Jayme shows up in Ballybeg in a last effort to see if their marriage can be saved.
But before that can happen, they both have secrets they need to share with each other, and Ballybeg is a perfect setting for that to take place.
This story had many elements that I really enjoyed. The main characters are thirty-something established professionals. They have to make some tough decisions about their lives. Their path back to each other is sweetly romantic as it's clear that both Ruairí and Jayme are still in love with each other. It all becomes a question of whether love is enough to trump all of the circumstances and past history and give them a second chance?
If you like contemporary romance, give this series a read, I think you might like it. Love and Blarney can be read as a standalone. This is quickly becoming one of my favorite series of 2014.
Can't wait for the next installment!
This review also appears on my blog at: http://redhotbluereads.blogspot.com/2014/08/arc-review-love-and-blarney-ballybeg-2.html
In Love and Blarney, the story centers around Ruairí MacCarthy, local pub owner. Years ago, he left Ballybeg for New York, thinking he'd never return. But now he's back to take care of the pub and some pressing family issues.
Ruairí has some loose ends to clean up. For one, he's left behind a wife in New York that no one knows about. He's never told her details about his family, and both of his worlds collide when Jayme shows up in Ballybeg in a last effort to see if their marriage can be saved.
But before that can happen, they both have secrets they need to share with each other, and Ballybeg is a perfect setting for that to take place.
This story had many elements that I really enjoyed. The main characters are thirty-something established professionals. They have to make some tough decisions about their lives. Their path back to each other is sweetly romantic as it's clear that both Ruairí and Jayme are still in love with each other. It all becomes a question of whether love is enough to trump all of the circumstances and past history and give them a second chance?
If you like contemporary romance, give this series a read, I think you might like it. Love and Blarney can be read as a standalone. This is quickly becoming one of my favorite series of 2014.
Can't wait for the next installment!
This review also appears on my blog at: http://redhotbluereads.blogspot.com/2014/08/arc-review-love-and-blarney-ballybeg-2.html
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