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Emerald Isles #1
De Ierse sleutel
De Ierse sleutel van Daisy O'Shea is women's fiction die je hart raakt.
Jaren geleden gaf Grace' oma haar de sleutel van haar Ierse cottage, voor als ze ooit een veilige haven nodig zou hebben. Nu is dat moment gekomen en denkt ze eindelijk een thuis voor haar en haar dochter Olivia te hebben gevonden. Maar het uit elkaar vallende huisje lijkt in niets op de nieuwe start die Grace zich had voorgesteld. Ze zoekt hulp bij timmerman Sean, die haar ondanks alles aan het lachen kan maken.
De vondst van een hartverscheurende brief zet haar leven op zijn kop. De waarheid over haar grootmoeders plotselinge vertrek uit Ierland stelt Grace voor de vraag: moet ze het verleden haar toekomst laten bepalen?
Jaren geleden gaf Grace' oma haar de sleutel van haar Ierse cottage, voor als ze ooit een veilige haven nodig zou hebben. Nu is dat moment gekomen en denkt ze eindelijk een thuis voor haar en haar dochter Olivia te hebben gevonden. Maar het uit elkaar vallende huisje lijkt in niets op de nieuwe start die Grace zich had voorgesteld. Ze zoekt hulp bij timmerman Sean, die haar ondanks alles aan het lachen kan maken.
De vondst van een hartverscheurende brief zet haar leven op zijn kop. De waarheid over haar grootmoeders plotselinge vertrek uit Ierland stelt Grace voor de vraag: moet ze het verleden haar toekomst laten bepalen?
336 pages, Paperback
Published July 9, 2025
5165 people are currently reading
686 people want to read
About the author
Daisy O'Shea
12 books57 followersWrites women's fiction with a touch of romance.
Currently lives in West Cork, Ireland.
Signed in August 2023 for a three book deal with Bookouture.
Currently lives in West Cork, Ireland.
Signed in August 2023 for a three book deal with Bookouture.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 139 reviews
April 24, 2024
THE IRISH KEY is the first time I’ve ever read Daisy O’Shea, but it definitely won’t be the last. On Grace’s wedding day, her grandmother, Caitlin, gives Grace the key to her cottage in Ireland in case she ever needs to escape her life. Well, that is exactly what happens when she runs away from her husband who is very controlling. She runs with her five year old daughter, Olivia. When she finally arrives in Roone Bay she can’t believe the condition of the cottage. She is extremely disappointed to see that they won’t be able to live there!
In THE IRISH KEY, the reader will fall in love with Roone Bay. Daisy describes it in such a way that I felt as if I were right there, by the sea watching the boats and listening to the gulls. Grace decides to fix the cottage, which will be a huge task. This is when she meets Sean Murphy, her neighbor and local carpenter. Grace hires Sean to renovate the cottage and he agrees. The renovation will not be a quick one and while it is going on Sean and Grace learn many things about each other. Secrets will be revealed through out the story and some are quite shocking to Grace. One of the secrets Grace hopes to figure out is why her grandmother left Ireland and never returned.
THE IRISH KEY will stay with you for a long time after you finish reading it. I have no idea when I will be able to read another book, but right now I can’t stop thinking about this one. There were several times I found myself desperately wanting to keep reading, to find out what would happen next, but I was afraid to turn the page, scared of the possible fates awaiting these characters. Would Grace ever be able to let go of the hurt and anger she dealt with in her marriage and feel loved once again? Daisy O’Shea has a magical way of telling dramatic stories. THE IRISH KEY will be sure to strike the reader’s heart and compassion for this brave woman who is willing to do anything in an effort to make Olivia feel as normal as possible.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Bookouture through Netgalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
In THE IRISH KEY, the reader will fall in love with Roone Bay. Daisy describes it in such a way that I felt as if I were right there, by the sea watching the boats and listening to the gulls. Grace decides to fix the cottage, which will be a huge task. This is when she meets Sean Murphy, her neighbor and local carpenter. Grace hires Sean to renovate the cottage and he agrees. The renovation will not be a quick one and while it is going on Sean and Grace learn many things about each other. Secrets will be revealed through out the story and some are quite shocking to Grace. One of the secrets Grace hopes to figure out is why her grandmother left Ireland and never returned.
THE IRISH KEY will stay with you for a long time after you finish reading it. I have no idea when I will be able to read another book, but right now I can’t stop thinking about this one. There were several times I found myself desperately wanting to keep reading, to find out what would happen next, but I was afraid to turn the page, scared of the possible fates awaiting these characters. Would Grace ever be able to let go of the hurt and anger she dealt with in her marriage and feel loved once again? Daisy O’Shea has a magical way of telling dramatic stories. THE IRISH KEY will be sure to strike the reader’s heart and compassion for this brave woman who is willing to do anything in an effort to make Olivia feel as normal as possible.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Bookouture through Netgalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
April 28, 2024
BLOG TOUR REVIEW
Review for 'The Irish Key' by Daisy O'Shea.
Read and reviewed via NetGalley for Daisy O'Shea, Bookouture publishers and Bookouture Anonymous
Publication date 24th April 2024.
This is the first book I have read by this author but it most definitely won't be my last!! It is also the first book in Daisy's 'Emerald Isles' series.
This novel consists of 34 chapters. The chapters are short to medium in length so easy to read 'just one more chapter' before bed...OK, I know yeah right, but still just in case!
OMG! OMG!! I cannot remember the last time I was so gutted to come to the end of a book!! Well done Daisy on an absolutely beautiful and emotive book!!!! I absolutely fell in love and it genuinely felt like I was packing my bags and being whisked away from my Irish holiday when I read the last page. Absolutely gorgeous!!!
The book is so well written with its stunning and vivid descriptions that I genuinely felt that I was standing with Grace throughout feeling the Irish breeze in my hair and smelling the ocean. The synopsis and cover suited the storyline perfectly.
I absolutely loved this gorgeous escapism read that swept me away from the beginning to the end!!! It is absolutely ram packed full of emotions from heartache to love, surprise to happiness and so much more. With a storyline filled with regrets, secrets, friendship, family, stunning settings, mind-blowing twists and everything you could ask for in a beautiful page turner this is one book you will not regret picking up!!! In this emotional book we meet Grace who has decided to escape an unhappy and controlling marriage to her husband Graham. She takes her daughter Olivia and runs to Ireland to her late Grandfathers home. After several disasters on the way she manages to get a lift with local Sean to the property just to discover it's completely inhabitable!! Luck is on her side when she discovers Sean is a builder and also happens to know a place she can stay. After Grace puts an advert up offering her work she receives a letter from Roone Bay's famous Noel from "The Big House" who left Ireland poor and returned rich. Noel wants Grace to write his memoir and offers her accommodation while Sean fixes her home. Will Grace find her happily ever after in Roone Bay? Will Graham find her and drag her and Olivia back? What secrets will she discover when typing up Noel's memoir? Grab your copy of this beautiful Irish page turner for yourself to find out!!! Written from the perspective's of Grace in the present and Noel and Caitlin in the past Daisy has done a fantastic job weaving the multiple protagonists and timelines together perfectly!!! It is also clear that Daisy has done alot of research on Ireland and it's history and I was absolutely intrigued by the lives of the Irish in the 1930's. A massive congratulations to Daisy for ensuring her book is well researched. It is a pet hate of mine when I am reading a book to then find it littered with mistakes that are completely unnecessary and avoidable if more research had been done. The only criticism I do have is that when I was reading it I assumed Grace's timeline was more modern day and only realised that Grace's story must have been set in the past also when she was handed with a new device called a computer! Although Daisy did a very good job ensuring the 1930 dates were timelined at the beginning of each of those chapters I would have recommended the same was done for Daisy's chapters. However, this didn't make any difference to my enjoyment of the book so I will not be removing any ratings for it but it would definitely be something to consider in future books. I absolutely loved the majority of the characters and was rooting for Grace, Sean and Noah throughout. Sean and Noah were such sweet, down to life men, especially considering Noel's riches which didn't turn him into a snob like Graham and his son (Grace's stepson) Arthur, neither whom I could stand and Sean and Noel were the complete opposite of them!! I also adored sweet Olivia who went through alot for a child and showed such compassion and bravery. I adored watching the personalities and relationships changing and developing throughout the book and I was completely invested in the characters and the storyline. The storyline isn't just about the renovations of Grace's cottage but if the history of Noel, the growing friendship between Grace and Sean and so, so much more. There is so much going on that I was absolutely glued to my kindle throughout. Every time I said just one more chapter something happened which meant I had to read another, then another until before I knew it I had devoured it it one sitting!!! Daisy's fantastic evocative writing skills really did bring the storyline, settings, atmosphere and characters to life and I really felt like I was next to the characters who very quickly came to feel like friends. I definitely won't be forgetting about them anytime soon and I hope we get to meet them again in the next book in this beautiful series which is called 'The Irish Child' which will be published on the 16th July and I cannot wait to read!!! This book really is an emotional rollercoaster ride of emotions that had me smiling away on so many occasions. I haven't been to Ireland for many years (physically) but this beautiful books makes me want to pack my physical suitcase and head straight there!!! A gorgeous heartwarming book that will leave you wanting more!!! This would make a gorgeous film and I'm looking to meet the next characters you create!!!
Clear your schedules and grab the tissues as you will not be able to put down this gorgeous and emotive page turner!!
Daisy, I fell in love with your heart warming, page turning and stunning book which took my heart away and left me gutted when my holiday ended. This is exactly the reason you are now on my favourite author list!! I cannot wait for my next Irish adventure!!! Please get these put on the big screen!! Here is to your next gorgeous success 🥂
Overall an absolutely stunning, heart warming romance that will have you heading off to Ireland in the blink of an eye.
316 pages.
This book is just £1.99, to purchase on kindle, Free with Kindle Unlimited and £9.63 in paperback at time of review via Amazon which I think is an absolute bargain for this book!!!
Rated 5/5 (I LOVED it ) on Goodreads, Instagram, Amazon UK and Amazon US and on over 30 Facebook pages plus my blog on Facebook.
Feel free to add me on Goodreads or follow me on my website or Facebook for more reviews
#TheIrishKey #EmeraldIsles #DaisyOShea #Bookouture #BookoutureAnonymous #NetGalley #BookReview #BlogTour #BooksOnTour #Goodreads #NetGalley #Amazon #AmazonKindle #Bookstagram #Bookblogger #KindleUnlimited
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Review for 'The Irish Key' by Daisy O'Shea.
Read and reviewed via NetGalley for Daisy O'Shea, Bookouture publishers and Bookouture Anonymous
Publication date 24th April 2024.
This is the first book I have read by this author but it most definitely won't be my last!! It is also the first book in Daisy's 'Emerald Isles' series.
This novel consists of 34 chapters. The chapters are short to medium in length so easy to read 'just one more chapter' before bed...OK, I know yeah right, but still just in case!
OMG! OMG!! I cannot remember the last time I was so gutted to come to the end of a book!! Well done Daisy on an absolutely beautiful and emotive book!!!! I absolutely fell in love and it genuinely felt like I was packing my bags and being whisked away from my Irish holiday when I read the last page. Absolutely gorgeous!!!
The book is so well written with its stunning and vivid descriptions that I genuinely felt that I was standing with Grace throughout feeling the Irish breeze in my hair and smelling the ocean. The synopsis and cover suited the storyline perfectly.
I absolutely loved this gorgeous escapism read that swept me away from the beginning to the end!!! It is absolutely ram packed full of emotions from heartache to love, surprise to happiness and so much more. With a storyline filled with regrets, secrets, friendship, family, stunning settings, mind-blowing twists and everything you could ask for in a beautiful page turner this is one book you will not regret picking up!!! In this emotional book we meet Grace who has decided to escape an unhappy and controlling marriage to her husband Graham. She takes her daughter Olivia and runs to Ireland to her late Grandfathers home. After several disasters on the way she manages to get a lift with local Sean to the property just to discover it's completely inhabitable!! Luck is on her side when she discovers Sean is a builder and also happens to know a place she can stay. After Grace puts an advert up offering her work she receives a letter from Roone Bay's famous Noel from "The Big House" who left Ireland poor and returned rich. Noel wants Grace to write his memoir and offers her accommodation while Sean fixes her home. Will Grace find her happily ever after in Roone Bay? Will Graham find her and drag her and Olivia back? What secrets will she discover when typing up Noel's memoir? Grab your copy of this beautiful Irish page turner for yourself to find out!!! Written from the perspective's of Grace in the present and Noel and Caitlin in the past Daisy has done a fantastic job weaving the multiple protagonists and timelines together perfectly!!! It is also clear that Daisy has done alot of research on Ireland and it's history and I was absolutely intrigued by the lives of the Irish in the 1930's. A massive congratulations to Daisy for ensuring her book is well researched. It is a pet hate of mine when I am reading a book to then find it littered with mistakes that are completely unnecessary and avoidable if more research had been done. The only criticism I do have is that when I was reading it I assumed Grace's timeline was more modern day and only realised that Grace's story must have been set in the past also when she was handed with a new device called a computer! Although Daisy did a very good job ensuring the 1930 dates were timelined at the beginning of each of those chapters I would have recommended the same was done for Daisy's chapters. However, this didn't make any difference to my enjoyment of the book so I will not be removing any ratings for it but it would definitely be something to consider in future books. I absolutely loved the majority of the characters and was rooting for Grace, Sean and Noah throughout. Sean and Noah were such sweet, down to life men, especially considering Noel's riches which didn't turn him into a snob like Graham and his son (Grace's stepson) Arthur, neither whom I could stand and Sean and Noel were the complete opposite of them!! I also adored sweet Olivia who went through alot for a child and showed such compassion and bravery. I adored watching the personalities and relationships changing and developing throughout the book and I was completely invested in the characters and the storyline. The storyline isn't just about the renovations of Grace's cottage but if the history of Noel, the growing friendship between Grace and Sean and so, so much more. There is so much going on that I was absolutely glued to my kindle throughout. Every time I said just one more chapter something happened which meant I had to read another, then another until before I knew it I had devoured it it one sitting!!! Daisy's fantastic evocative writing skills really did bring the storyline, settings, atmosphere and characters to life and I really felt like I was next to the characters who very quickly came to feel like friends. I definitely won't be forgetting about them anytime soon and I hope we get to meet them again in the next book in this beautiful series which is called 'The Irish Child' which will be published on the 16th July and I cannot wait to read!!! This book really is an emotional rollercoaster ride of emotions that had me smiling away on so many occasions. I haven't been to Ireland for many years (physically) but this beautiful books makes me want to pack my physical suitcase and head straight there!!! A gorgeous heartwarming book that will leave you wanting more!!! This would make a gorgeous film and I'm looking to meet the next characters you create!!!
Clear your schedules and grab the tissues as you will not be able to put down this gorgeous and emotive page turner!!
Daisy, I fell in love with your heart warming, page turning and stunning book which took my heart away and left me gutted when my holiday ended. This is exactly the reason you are now on my favourite author list!! I cannot wait for my next Irish adventure!!! Please get these put on the big screen!! Here is to your next gorgeous success 🥂
Overall an absolutely stunning, heart warming romance that will have you heading off to Ireland in the blink of an eye.
316 pages.
This book is just £1.99, to purchase on kindle, Free with Kindle Unlimited and £9.63 in paperback at time of review via Amazon which I think is an absolute bargain for this book!!!
Rated 5/5 (I LOVED it ) on Goodreads, Instagram, Amazon UK and Amazon US and on over 30 Facebook pages plus my blog on Facebook.
Feel free to add me on Goodreads or follow me on my website or Facebook for more reviews
#TheIrishKey #EmeraldIsles #DaisyOShea #Bookouture #BookoutureAnonymous #NetGalley #BookReview #BlogTour #BooksOnTour #Goodreads #NetGalley #Amazon #AmazonKindle #Bookstagram #Bookblogger #KindleUnlimited
@TheIrishKey @EmeraldIsles @DaisyOShea @Bookouture @BookoutureAnonymous @Bookworm1986 @bookworm86 @Goodreads @Netgalley @Amazon @AmazonKindle @Bookstagram @BookBlogger @KindleUnlimited
https://m.facebook.com/Bookworm1986/?...
https://m.facebook.com/Bookwork86/?__...
https://www.instagram.com/bookwormwhi...
https://www.goodreads.com/user/show/3...
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March 22, 2024
This is such a stunning well written novel that truly carried my heart away to Ireland where I never missed a beat of its identifiable tune! This is a story about relationships that are initially broken, quenched, misunderstood and mishandled. But eventually the natural ways and charm of this island and its people captured the heroine’s heart and helped her through some trying times.
The quote I first read on this novel in the blurb intrigued me. It really says a lot about the bones or notes of this story. There’s a mystery tied up in this beautiful gift from a grandmother to her grand-daughter. 'Take the key, my pet. I can’t ever go back. The last letter I had from Ireland was clear about that. But one day you may need a safe haven, and it’s the one thing I can give you. Ireland is in your blood, it will keep you safe.’
Of course, any novel set in Ireland gets my attention and this one is very special and profoundly moving with its wonderful brush strokes of creative insight on the Irish heart and how this island’s natural beauty transforms, restores and equips those with its blood in their veins. There is such a sense of ancient magic, mystery and culture that continues to be passed down through many generations. Something I can deeply I relate to. And Ms O’Shea has captured the spirit of the place and its power to heal. We see this through Grace, a woman who has been married to a wealthy businessman named Graham who does not treat her as an equal. He only seems to want to possess or control her. As a result, her self-worth and identity have faded into the background. Until the day she has courage to secretly pack up and flee with her daughter Olivia from England with no warning. Her initial thought is to go to her mother’s but then she realises it would be the first place her husband would look, so she runs off to Ireland with a key given to her on her wedding day by her grandmother. Did Grandma Cailtin realise one day Grace would need this little cottage? It appears her grandmother and others did not like her husband and rightfully so. But at the moment when she decides enough is enough, she remembers her grandmother’s words and decides Ireland is her best choice to hide away. Her grandpa’s cottage may just be the ‘safe haven’ she needs. And besides. as her grandmother once stated, ‘Ireland in in her blood.’
When Grace arrives in Ireland to a simpler existence, it is quite a cultural shock. After being used to the comforts of the rich, due to her husband’s wealth, the Irish living conditions are quite a change. But that does not worry her and she knows she can adjust, for she came from humble beginnings. When she meets the local builder, Sean, who gives her a lift to her destination, he forewarns her she might not want to move into her grandfather’s home just yet. When she sees how derelict it is, she understands what he means. She has a key to house that has no door now! She realises she must stay in another accommodation and Sean introduces her to a local shop lady with a room. But there is a time limit of how long she can stay, since it has been prebooked for another. Once settling in, she looks for work and a surprise job comes up. Everything begins to change for Grace and Olivia. Ireland’s redemptive qualities begin to change and comfort her—but there is always a touch a fear in the back of her mind she will be found by her husband.
What follows is a tumultuous journey but this woman’s courage grows, being away from the negative influences that took so much from her. She meets some wonderful people in the town. One character I particularly adored: an older gentleman named Noel. He has moved back to the area he grew up in, after being away for a number of years. His story is a fascinating one. With his unexpected friendship and support, Grace reclaims the present. Other wonderful towns folk are added to her life. Grace and little Olivia now are surrounded by loving, caring people. This attention helps them both to blossom. Sean, too, makes quite an impression on Grace and her daughter. Grace is awakened to a better life and the possibility of a happy fulfilling future.
There are some nail biting encounters with the past (as you’d expect). Secrets are unveiled and surprising truths erupt, plus a few unexpected twists that expose true natures. And although there are some frightening events, the ending brilliantly pulls everything together to provide a fulfilling conclusion. Ms. O’Shea threw some ‘hefty stumbling blocks’ in Grace’s path but showed us ‘her underlying strength of character.’ It was an emotional journey I won’t forget and yes, I closed the book with a ‘sigh of satisfaction!’ I loved this novel and cannot wait to read more of this author’s works! Very happy. 5 Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Thanks to Bookouture and Netgalley for my review copy.
The quote I first read on this novel in the blurb intrigued me. It really says a lot about the bones or notes of this story. There’s a mystery tied up in this beautiful gift from a grandmother to her grand-daughter. 'Take the key, my pet. I can’t ever go back. The last letter I had from Ireland was clear about that. But one day you may need a safe haven, and it’s the one thing I can give you. Ireland is in your blood, it will keep you safe.’
Of course, any novel set in Ireland gets my attention and this one is very special and profoundly moving with its wonderful brush strokes of creative insight on the Irish heart and how this island’s natural beauty transforms, restores and equips those with its blood in their veins. There is such a sense of ancient magic, mystery and culture that continues to be passed down through many generations. Something I can deeply I relate to. And Ms O’Shea has captured the spirit of the place and its power to heal. We see this through Grace, a woman who has been married to a wealthy businessman named Graham who does not treat her as an equal. He only seems to want to possess or control her. As a result, her self-worth and identity have faded into the background. Until the day she has courage to secretly pack up and flee with her daughter Olivia from England with no warning. Her initial thought is to go to her mother’s but then she realises it would be the first place her husband would look, so she runs off to Ireland with a key given to her on her wedding day by her grandmother. Did Grandma Cailtin realise one day Grace would need this little cottage? It appears her grandmother and others did not like her husband and rightfully so. But at the moment when she decides enough is enough, she remembers her grandmother’s words and decides Ireland is her best choice to hide away. Her grandpa’s cottage may just be the ‘safe haven’ she needs. And besides. as her grandmother once stated, ‘Ireland in in her blood.’
When Grace arrives in Ireland to a simpler existence, it is quite a cultural shock. After being used to the comforts of the rich, due to her husband’s wealth, the Irish living conditions are quite a change. But that does not worry her and she knows she can adjust, for she came from humble beginnings. When she meets the local builder, Sean, who gives her a lift to her destination, he forewarns her she might not want to move into her grandfather’s home just yet. When she sees how derelict it is, she understands what he means. She has a key to house that has no door now! She realises she must stay in another accommodation and Sean introduces her to a local shop lady with a room. But there is a time limit of how long she can stay, since it has been prebooked for another. Once settling in, she looks for work and a surprise job comes up. Everything begins to change for Grace and Olivia. Ireland’s redemptive qualities begin to change and comfort her—but there is always a touch a fear in the back of her mind she will be found by her husband.
What follows is a tumultuous journey but this woman’s courage grows, being away from the negative influences that took so much from her. She meets some wonderful people in the town. One character I particularly adored: an older gentleman named Noel. He has moved back to the area he grew up in, after being away for a number of years. His story is a fascinating one. With his unexpected friendship and support, Grace reclaims the present. Other wonderful towns folk are added to her life. Grace and little Olivia now are surrounded by loving, caring people. This attention helps them both to blossom. Sean, too, makes quite an impression on Grace and her daughter. Grace is awakened to a better life and the possibility of a happy fulfilling future.
There are some nail biting encounters with the past (as you’d expect). Secrets are unveiled and surprising truths erupt, plus a few unexpected twists that expose true natures. And although there are some frightening events, the ending brilliantly pulls everything together to provide a fulfilling conclusion. Ms. O’Shea threw some ‘hefty stumbling blocks’ in Grace’s path but showed us ‘her underlying strength of character.’ It was an emotional journey I won’t forget and yes, I closed the book with a ‘sigh of satisfaction!’ I loved this novel and cannot wait to read more of this author’s works! Very happy. 5 Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Thanks to Bookouture and Netgalley for my review copy.
April 28, 2024
BLOG TOUR REVIEW
Review for 'The Irish Key' by Daisy O'Shea.
Read and reviewed via NetGalley for Daisy O'Shea, Bookouture publishers and Bookouture Anonymous
Publication date 24th April 2024.
This is the first book I have read by this author but it most definitely won't be my last!! It is also the first book in Daisy's 'Emerald Isles' series.
This novel consists of 34 chapters. The chapters are short to medium in length so easy to read 'just one more chapter' before bed...OK, I know yeah right, but still just in case!
OMG! OMG!! I cannot remember the last time I was so gutted to come to the end of a book!! Well done Daisy on an absolutely beautiful and emotive book!!!! I absolutely fell in love and it genuinely felt like I was packing my bags and being whisked away from my Irish holiday when I read the last page. Absolutely gorgeous!!!
The book is so well written with its stunning and vivid descriptions that I genuinely felt that I was standing with Grace throughout feeling the Irish breeze in my hair and smelling the ocean. The synopsis and cover suited the storyline perfectly.
I absolutely loved this gorgeous escapism read that swept me away from the beginning to the end!!! It is absolutely ram packed full of emotions from heartache to love, surprise to happiness and so much more. With a storyline filled with regrets, secrets, friendship, family, stunning settings, mind-blowing twists and everything you could ask for in a beautiful page turner this is one book you will not regret picking up!!! In this emotional book we meet Grace who has decided to escape an unhappy and controlling marriage to her husband Graham. She takes her daughter Olivia and runs to Ireland to her late Grandfathers home. After several disasters on the way she manages to get a lift with local Sean to the property just to discover it's completely inhabitable!! Luck is on her side when she discovers Sean is a builder and also happens to know a place she can stay. After Grace puts an advert up offering her work she receives a letter from Roone Bay's famous Noel from "The Big House" who left Ireland poor and returned rich. Noel wants Grace to write his memoir and offers her accommodation while Sean fixes her home. Will Grace find her happily ever after in Roone Bay? Will Graham find her and drag her and Olivia back? What secrets will she discover when typing up Noel's memoir? Grab your copy of this beautiful Irish page turner for yourself to find out!!! Written from the perspective's of Grace in the present and Noel and Caitlin in the past Daisy has done a fantastic job weaving the multiple protagonists and timelines together perfectly!!! It is also clear that Daisy has done alot of research on Ireland and it's history and I was absolutely intrigued by the lives of the Irish in the 1930's. A massive congratulations to Daisy for ensuring her book is well researched. It is a pet hate of mine when I am reading a book to then find it littered with mistakes that are completely unnecessary and avoidable if more research had been done. The only criticism I do have is that when I was reading it I assumed Grace's timeline was more modern day and only realised that Grace's story must have been set in the past also when she was handed with a new device called a computer! Although Daisy did a very good job ensuring the 1930 dates were timelined at the beginning of each of those chapters I would have recommended the same was done for Daisy's chapters. However, this didn't make any difference to my enjoyment of the book so I will not be removing any ratings for it but it would definitely be something to consider in future books. I absolutely loved the majority of the characters and was rooting for Grace, Sean and Noah throughout. Sean and Noah were such sweet, down to life men, especially considering Noel's riches which didn't turn him into a snob like Graham and his son (Grace's stepson) Arthur, neither whom I could stand and Sean and Noel were the complete opposite of them!! I also adored sweet Olivia who went through alot for a child and showed such compassion and bravery. I adored watching the personalities and relationships changing and developing throughout the book and I was completely invested in the characters and the storyline. The storyline isn't just about the renovations of Grace's cottage but if the history of Noel, the growing friendship between Grace and Sean and so, so much more. There is so much going on that I was absolutely glued to my kindle throughout. Every time I said just one more chapter something happened which meant I had to read another, then another until before I knew it I had devoured it it one sitting!!! Daisy's fantastic evocative writing skills really did bring the storyline, settings, atmosphere and characters to life and I really felt like I was next to the characters who very quickly came to feel like friends. I definitely won't be forgetting about them anytime soon and I hope we get to meet them again in the next book in this beautiful series which is called 'The Irish Child' which will be published on the 16th July and I cannot wait to read!!! This book really is an emotional rollercoaster ride of emotions that had me smiling away on so many occasions. I haven't been to Ireland for many years (physically) but this beautiful books makes me want to pack my physical suitcase and head straight there!!! A gorgeous heartwarming book that will leave you wanting more!!! This would make a gorgeous film and I'm looking to meet the next characters you create!!!
Clear your schedules and grab the tissues as you will not be able to put down this gorgeous and emotive page turner!!
Daisy, I fell in love with your heart warming, page turning and stunning book which took my heart away and left me gutted when my holiday ended. This is exactly the reason you are now on my favourite author list!! I cannot wait for my next Irish adventure!!! Please get these put on the big screen!! Here is to your next gorgeous success 🥂
Overall an absolutely stunning, heart warming romance that will have you heading off to Ireland in the blink of an eye.
316 pages.
This book is just £1.99, to purchase on kindle, Free with Kindle Unlimited and £9.63 in paperback at time of review via Amazon which I think is an absolute bargain for this book!!!
Rated 5/5 (I LOVED it ) on Goodreads, Instagram, Amazon UK and Amazon US and on over 30 Facebook pages plus my blog on Facebook.
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Review for 'The Irish Key' by Daisy O'Shea.
Read and reviewed via NetGalley for Daisy O'Shea, Bookouture publishers and Bookouture Anonymous
Publication date 24th April 2024.
This is the first book I have read by this author but it most definitely won't be my last!! It is also the first book in Daisy's 'Emerald Isles' series.
This novel consists of 34 chapters. The chapters are short to medium in length so easy to read 'just one more chapter' before bed...OK, I know yeah right, but still just in case!
OMG! OMG!! I cannot remember the last time I was so gutted to come to the end of a book!! Well done Daisy on an absolutely beautiful and emotive book!!!! I absolutely fell in love and it genuinely felt like I was packing my bags and being whisked away from my Irish holiday when I read the last page. Absolutely gorgeous!!!
The book is so well written with its stunning and vivid descriptions that I genuinely felt that I was standing with Grace throughout feeling the Irish breeze in my hair and smelling the ocean. The synopsis and cover suited the storyline perfectly.
I absolutely loved this gorgeous escapism read that swept me away from the beginning to the end!!! It is absolutely ram packed full of emotions from heartache to love, surprise to happiness and so much more. With a storyline filled with regrets, secrets, friendship, family, stunning settings, mind-blowing twists and everything you could ask for in a beautiful page turner this is one book you will not regret picking up!!! In this emotional book we meet Grace who has decided to escape an unhappy and controlling marriage to her husband Graham. She takes her daughter Olivia and runs to Ireland to her late Grandfathers home. After several disasters on the way she manages to get a lift with local Sean to the property just to discover it's completely inhabitable!! Luck is on her side when she discovers Sean is a builder and also happens to know a place she can stay. After Grace puts an advert up offering her work she receives a letter from Roone Bay's famous Noel from "The Big House" who left Ireland poor and returned rich. Noel wants Grace to write his memoir and offers her accommodation while Sean fixes her home. Will Grace find her happily ever after in Roone Bay? Will Graham find her and drag her and Olivia back? What secrets will she discover when typing up Noel's memoir? Grab your copy of this beautiful Irish page turner for yourself to find out!!! Written from the perspective's of Grace in the present and Noel and Caitlin in the past Daisy has done a fantastic job weaving the multiple protagonists and timelines together perfectly!!! It is also clear that Daisy has done alot of research on Ireland and it's history and I was absolutely intrigued by the lives of the Irish in the 1930's. A massive congratulations to Daisy for ensuring her book is well researched. It is a pet hate of mine when I am reading a book to then find it littered with mistakes that are completely unnecessary and avoidable if more research had been done. The only criticism I do have is that when I was reading it I assumed Grace's timeline was more modern day and only realised that Grace's story must have been set in the past also when she was handed with a new device called a computer! Although Daisy did a very good job ensuring the 1930 dates were timelined at the beginning of each of those chapters I would have recommended the same was done for Daisy's chapters. However, this didn't make any difference to my enjoyment of the book so I will not be removing any ratings for it but it would definitely be something to consider in future books. I absolutely loved the majority of the characters and was rooting for Grace, Sean and Noah throughout. Sean and Noah were such sweet, down to life men, especially considering Noel's riches which didn't turn him into a snob like Graham and his son (Grace's stepson) Arthur, neither whom I could stand and Sean and Noel were the complete opposite of them!! I also adored sweet Olivia who went through alot for a child and showed such compassion and bravery. I adored watching the personalities and relationships changing and developing throughout the book and I was completely invested in the characters and the storyline. The storyline isn't just about the renovations of Grace's cottage but if the history of Noel, the growing friendship between Grace and Sean and so, so much more. There is so much going on that I was absolutely glued to my kindle throughout. Every time I said just one more chapter something happened which meant I had to read another, then another until before I knew it I had devoured it it one sitting!!! Daisy's fantastic evocative writing skills really did bring the storyline, settings, atmosphere and characters to life and I really felt like I was next to the characters who very quickly came to feel like friends. I definitely won't be forgetting about them anytime soon and I hope we get to meet them again in the next book in this beautiful series which is called 'The Irish Child' which will be published on the 16th July and I cannot wait to read!!! This book really is an emotional rollercoaster ride of emotions that had me smiling away on so many occasions. I haven't been to Ireland for many years (physically) but this beautiful books makes me want to pack my physical suitcase and head straight there!!! A gorgeous heartwarming book that will leave you wanting more!!! This would make a gorgeous film and I'm looking to meet the next characters you create!!!
Clear your schedules and grab the tissues as you will not be able to put down this gorgeous and emotive page turner!!
Daisy, I fell in love with your heart warming, page turning and stunning book which took my heart away and left me gutted when my holiday ended. This is exactly the reason you are now on my favourite author list!! I cannot wait for my next Irish adventure!!! Please get these put on the big screen!! Here is to your next gorgeous success 🥂
Overall an absolutely stunning, heart warming romance that will have you heading off to Ireland in the blink of an eye.
316 pages.
This book is just £1.99, to purchase on kindle, Free with Kindle Unlimited and £9.63 in paperback at time of review via Amazon which I think is an absolute bargain for this book!!!
Rated 5/5 (I LOVED it ) on Goodreads, Instagram, Amazon UK and Amazon US and on over 30 Facebook pages plus my blog on Facebook.
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October 4, 2025
The Irish Key #1 Emerald Isles
‘Take the key, my pet. I can’t ever go back. The last letter I had from Ireland was clear about that. But one day you may need a safe haven, and it’s the one thing I can give you. Ireland is in your blood, it will keep you safe.’
‘Take the key, my pet. I can’t ever go back. The last letter I had from Ireland was clear about that. But one day you may need a safe haven, and it’s the one thing I can give you. Ireland is in your blood, it will keep you safe.’
April 23, 2024
Grace remembers her grandmother Caitlin and her beautiful Irish cottage, as if it was yesterday. On Grace’s wedding day, she was given a key to the cottage, just in case she was ever in need of an escape or a secret safe place. She never expected to use it or need it. But, as life would have it Grace needs a fresh start for not just her but also her daughter Olivia. She returns to the beautiful Irish coast with its breath taking views and amazing deep emerald sea. However, when she arrives at the cottage, the dilapidated condition is not what she expected and not the way she remembered it to be.
She feels at home in Roone Bay, and she decides to fix up the cottage and make it livable and a perfect little place for herself and Olivia. She realizes it’s too far gone and she can’t bring it back to life on her own. She soon meets her new neighbor Sean Murphy, who happens to be a carpenter. He decides to help her restore the cottage but as they are rummaging through the cottage, Grace uncovers some things about her family history, that she never knew. When she finds a letter addressed to her grandmother Caitlin, that explains why she left Ireland all those years ago and never returned.
This wonderfully written story of family, friendship, and filled with hope of what is yet to come. I really enjoyed the flow of the story and it kept me flying through the pages. The characters, Grace and Olivia, were lovely to read about and I really enjoyed the family’s secret mystery. This story reinforces that strangers can become friends and family though acts of kindness. An important aspect to never give up hope in others. Daisy O’Shea is a new to me author and I look forward to reading mor of her stories. She has such a wonderful way of pulling the reader in to the story and not letting go. I felt like I was standing on the shores of Roone Bay and enjoying the beautiful emerald sea. I highly recommend this story.
She feels at home in Roone Bay, and she decides to fix up the cottage and make it livable and a perfect little place for herself and Olivia. She realizes it’s too far gone and she can’t bring it back to life on her own. She soon meets her new neighbor Sean Murphy, who happens to be a carpenter. He decides to help her restore the cottage but as they are rummaging through the cottage, Grace uncovers some things about her family history, that she never knew. When she finds a letter addressed to her grandmother Caitlin, that explains why she left Ireland all those years ago and never returned.
This wonderfully written story of family, friendship, and filled with hope of what is yet to come. I really enjoyed the flow of the story and it kept me flying through the pages. The characters, Grace and Olivia, were lovely to read about and I really enjoyed the family’s secret mystery. This story reinforces that strangers can become friends and family though acts of kindness. An important aspect to never give up hope in others. Daisy O’Shea is a new to me author and I look forward to reading mor of her stories. She has such a wonderful way of pulling the reader in to the story and not letting go. I felt like I was standing on the shores of Roone Bay and enjoying the beautiful emerald sea. I highly recommend this story.
April 26, 2024
This charming novel was set in a rural village in West Cork, on the Mizen Peninsula, in southern Ireland.
Grace has run away from her handsome, wealthy, controlling, and manipulative husband. She fled with her seven year old daughter upon learning that her husband enrolled Olivia in a boarding school. Years earlier, her grandmother seemed to intuit that Grace's marriage wouldn't last and she gave her a big old iron key with a blue ribbon tied around it. Now, Grace takes the key and returns to her family's homeland in Ireland.
She arrives to find that her grandmother's cottage is nothing but a ruin. Disheartened, she meets some friendly locals who give her a place to stay while the cottage is being made habitable once again. Meanwhile, she gains employment with a rich local man transcribing his memoirs. The elderly man becomes a real friend to Grace when she most needs one.
Through the recollections of her elderly employer, we learn about the past of the area through his eyes. The struggle, the hardships, and the strong spirit of the people.
Grace comes to have feelings for the builder who is renovating her cottage. Her little daughter is thriving in her new environment. Things seem to be going well... until her past catches up with her.
The setting added greatly to my reading enjoyment. As with most romance fiction, the plot was fairly predictable, but I thoroughly enjoyed the read nonetheless.
This is a novel about family, both found and biological. It is about belonging, acceptance, starting over, living with your choices, and the kindness of strangers.
Grace has run away from her handsome, wealthy, controlling, and manipulative husband. She fled with her seven year old daughter upon learning that her husband enrolled Olivia in a boarding school. Years earlier, her grandmother seemed to intuit that Grace's marriage wouldn't last and she gave her a big old iron key with a blue ribbon tied around it. Now, Grace takes the key and returns to her family's homeland in Ireland.
She arrives to find that her grandmother's cottage is nothing but a ruin. Disheartened, she meets some friendly locals who give her a place to stay while the cottage is being made habitable once again. Meanwhile, she gains employment with a rich local man transcribing his memoirs. The elderly man becomes a real friend to Grace when she most needs one.
Through the recollections of her elderly employer, we learn about the past of the area through his eyes. The struggle, the hardships, and the strong spirit of the people.
Grace comes to have feelings for the builder who is renovating her cottage. Her little daughter is thriving in her new environment. Things seem to be going well... until her past catches up with her.
The setting added greatly to my reading enjoyment. As with most romance fiction, the plot was fairly predictable, but I thoroughly enjoyed the read nonetheless.
This is a novel about family, both found and biological. It is about belonging, acceptance, starting over, living with your choices, and the kindness of strangers.
March 11, 2024
Thank you NetGalley and Bookouture for the opportunity to read "The Irish Key" in exchange for my honest opinion.
This was my first book by Daisy O'Shea and it will not be my last. This wonderful book is set in Ireland where the main character Grace Adams has escaped to with her daughter Olivia. The reader will be pulling for her to make it because she's escaping a disastrous marriage to a controlling, overbearing and arrogant Graham who feels very entitled indeed. His first wife died under mysterious circumstances and he has a son Arthur from that relationship.
We meet the wonderful Noel O'Donovan who is truly a grand character. With the help of Grace he is writing his memoirs and through that we learn of his life in 1931-32 when he was in love with Kathleen. We learn how he ending up living in such a wonderful house, which he has allowed Grace and Olivia to stay in while they sort a home of their own.
This story has everything - mystery, intrigue, true love, family, the kindness of strangers and hope. In the midst of things going wrong, so many things go right or Grace. An absolutely wonderful story that I look forward to recommending to my friends. Worth much more than 5 stars!!
This was my first book by Daisy O'Shea and it will not be my last. This wonderful book is set in Ireland where the main character Grace Adams has escaped to with her daughter Olivia. The reader will be pulling for her to make it because she's escaping a disastrous marriage to a controlling, overbearing and arrogant Graham who feels very entitled indeed. His first wife died under mysterious circumstances and he has a son Arthur from that relationship.
We meet the wonderful Noel O'Donovan who is truly a grand character. With the help of Grace he is writing his memoirs and through that we learn of his life in 1931-32 when he was in love with Kathleen. We learn how he ending up living in such a wonderful house, which he has allowed Grace and Olivia to stay in while they sort a home of their own.
This story has everything - mystery, intrigue, true love, family, the kindness of strangers and hope. In the midst of things going wrong, so many things go right or Grace. An absolutely wonderful story that I look forward to recommending to my friends. Worth much more than 5 stars!!
November 1, 2025
Glad this is over. Extremely unlikable main character. It wasn’t clear to me in which time it was set which made me question some things. The daughter was cute, that’s the positive side. Apparently a lot of people like this story looking at the reviews, wasn’t my cup of tea.
June 16, 2024
The story was annoying to me. Poor little rich lady being bossed around and manipulated by her husband. I found her weakness and cowardly actions reprehensible.
Another thing that would have helped was a time period. A mention of a tv but what decade?
The story was slow moving until the last few chapters.
Another thing that would have helped was a time period. A mention of a tv but what decade?
The story was slow moving until the last few chapters.
July 9, 2024
This beautiful tale of second chances, family secrets and ties, and the magic of Ireland was so powerful to read. I’ve always dreamt of visiting Ireland. And it truly felt like I was there, by the sea. The characters all charmed me and made me smile and laugh with them. Such a sweet and special story. I would recommend to anyone looking for a slow, happy-ending read.
August 12, 2024
Set in the 70's with throwback timelines to the 30's. This is a story of a woman who flees with her daughter to leave a controlling, entitled husband. Her secret hiding spot is an old home where her Gran grew up. It is in disrepair and the people who band together to help her are surprises as the story moves along. A lovely tale.....
April 27, 2024
Her grandmother's key will unlock more than she'd ever imagined...
Contemporary women's fiction can be a bit hit or miss for me but I loved the sound of this tale in this little piece of Ireland. It's charming with a easy pace and a host of secrets.
On Grace's wedding day, her grandmother Caitlin gave her a big old iron key tied with a blue ribbon in a nod to the age old adage of something old and something blue. Puzzled by the gift, her grandmother whispered "just in case" she was ever in need of an escape one day. Swept up in the romance of her wedding day, Grace never expected or thought she would ever need it. Her husband Graham thought it a dirty old thing and told her to throw it away. But Grace held on to it. For this key held the secrets to the past and you never know...she may just wish to visit the place of her grandmother's birth one day.
Seven years later with her six year old daughter Olivia in tow, Grace is running from the stifling opression of her unhappy marriage to a manipulative and controlling man who wanted nothing but a pliable obedient and decorative wife who did as she was told. But it was his blatant disregard for her wishes and the future he held in store for their daughter that was the final nail in the coffin of their already dead marriage. Making it seem like an adventure, Grace promised Olivia a visit to the seaside...a more permanent one than Olivia (in her childlike innocence) envisaged.
It took three long days, several trains, a ferry and a couple of buses for them to reach their destination. And when they did, she was disappointed. The beautiful quaint little cottage on the west coast of Cork in her grandparents' photograph resembled nothing of the draughty cold old pile of rubble standing before her now. Forget the key her grandmothr gave her - this cottage no longer has a door! Tendrils of ivy and brambles grow up the walls and through the chimney, broken glass panes and a battered old door that lay on the ground. How can they live here? It's not fit for rodents, let alone people.
But time and tide is on her side it seems in the form of a kindly young man named Sean Murphy, who happens to be a builder and with her meagre savings which she had intended to live off for a while will have to be spent in renovating this sad old cottage. And restore it to its former glory. In the meantime, Grace and Olivia need a place to stay - at first with Mrs O'Hara's bed and breakfast for a few weeks until her paying guests come to stay. Then Grace gets herself a job typing up the memoirs of Rooney Bay's wealthy resident, returned from the Americas with his fortunes. At once, Noel O'Donovan invites them to stay in his big house while their cottage is being renovated. And it seems Noel has a few secrets of his own and he won't share them until he has gotten the measure of Grace and what exactly she's running from.
And despite being settled in Rooney House, Grace can't help but look over her shoulder, afraid that Graham will come looking for them and drag them back to England...and his way of life. But Grace has no idea what is in store for her in this quaint little Irish village...or where her heart will eventually lay.
I found this tale a little slow in places but then I am probably too used to the fast pace of thrillers that keep you turning the pages at the rate of knots. This is a more gentle read with a slower pace. But that's not to say it's boring or uneventful. It is intriguing it its own way with long held secrets buried for half a century. It was fairly easy to navigate and predict where the story was going, and that's OK. I found myself endeared to Sean and Noel as the loveable Irish rogues.
I guess my only real complaint is the timeline. When I began the story, I naturally assumed it was set in the present day but when the timeline shifts back to 1930 I thought that could not be possible. It would make the said character well over a hundred years old! Throughout the story, I came to estimate the present day timeline was set around the early 1980s although it is never stated. But given that they refer to it being fifty years I then assumed so. The other telling point being the introduction of a computer as if it were a foreign object. Today they are used everywhere but Grace had no knowledge or experience on one and its description was very basic to say the least. The fact that her husband owned a company that dealt in technology again lead me to believe the era was later. It was very confusing and I don't like confusion when reading. I like things to be stated clearly to avoid confusion and I don't recall anywhere in the story stating in what timeline the present day was set.
Again, that has to be my only complaint because the story was a delightful read that I really enjoyed. I note there is a second book to this series "The Irish Child" to be published in July. I look forward to rejoining Roone Bay once again and seeing how the first tale ties in with this second one.
I would like to thank #DaisyOShea, #Netgalley and #Bookouture for an ARC of #TheIrishKey in exchange for an honest review.
This review appears on my blog at https://stinathebookaholic.blogspot.com/.
Contemporary women's fiction can be a bit hit or miss for me but I loved the sound of this tale in this little piece of Ireland. It's charming with a easy pace and a host of secrets.
On Grace's wedding day, her grandmother Caitlin gave her a big old iron key tied with a blue ribbon in a nod to the age old adage of something old and something blue. Puzzled by the gift, her grandmother whispered "just in case" she was ever in need of an escape one day. Swept up in the romance of her wedding day, Grace never expected or thought she would ever need it. Her husband Graham thought it a dirty old thing and told her to throw it away. But Grace held on to it. For this key held the secrets to the past and you never know...she may just wish to visit the place of her grandmother's birth one day.
Seven years later with her six year old daughter Olivia in tow, Grace is running from the stifling opression of her unhappy marriage to a manipulative and controlling man who wanted nothing but a pliable obedient and decorative wife who did as she was told. But it was his blatant disregard for her wishes and the future he held in store for their daughter that was the final nail in the coffin of their already dead marriage. Making it seem like an adventure, Grace promised Olivia a visit to the seaside...a more permanent one than Olivia (in her childlike innocence) envisaged.
It took three long days, several trains, a ferry and a couple of buses for them to reach their destination. And when they did, she was disappointed. The beautiful quaint little cottage on the west coast of Cork in her grandparents' photograph resembled nothing of the draughty cold old pile of rubble standing before her now. Forget the key her grandmothr gave her - this cottage no longer has a door! Tendrils of ivy and brambles grow up the walls and through the chimney, broken glass panes and a battered old door that lay on the ground. How can they live here? It's not fit for rodents, let alone people.
But time and tide is on her side it seems in the form of a kindly young man named Sean Murphy, who happens to be a builder and with her meagre savings which she had intended to live off for a while will have to be spent in renovating this sad old cottage. And restore it to its former glory. In the meantime, Grace and Olivia need a place to stay - at first with Mrs O'Hara's bed and breakfast for a few weeks until her paying guests come to stay. Then Grace gets herself a job typing up the memoirs of Rooney Bay's wealthy resident, returned from the Americas with his fortunes. At once, Noel O'Donovan invites them to stay in his big house while their cottage is being renovated. And it seems Noel has a few secrets of his own and he won't share them until he has gotten the measure of Grace and what exactly she's running from.
And despite being settled in Rooney House, Grace can't help but look over her shoulder, afraid that Graham will come looking for them and drag them back to England...and his way of life. But Grace has no idea what is in store for her in this quaint little Irish village...or where her heart will eventually lay.
I found this tale a little slow in places but then I am probably too used to the fast pace of thrillers that keep you turning the pages at the rate of knots. This is a more gentle read with a slower pace. But that's not to say it's boring or uneventful. It is intriguing it its own way with long held secrets buried for half a century. It was fairly easy to navigate and predict where the story was going, and that's OK. I found myself endeared to Sean and Noel as the loveable Irish rogues.
I guess my only real complaint is the timeline. When I began the story, I naturally assumed it was set in the present day but when the timeline shifts back to 1930 I thought that could not be possible. It would make the said character well over a hundred years old! Throughout the story, I came to estimate the present day timeline was set around the early 1980s although it is never stated. But given that they refer to it being fifty years I then assumed so. The other telling point being the introduction of a computer as if it were a foreign object. Today they are used everywhere but Grace had no knowledge or experience on one and its description was very basic to say the least. The fact that her husband owned a company that dealt in technology again lead me to believe the era was later. It was very confusing and I don't like confusion when reading. I like things to be stated clearly to avoid confusion and I don't recall anywhere in the story stating in what timeline the present day was set.
Again, that has to be my only complaint because the story was a delightful read that I really enjoyed. I note there is a second book to this series "The Irish Child" to be published in July. I look forward to rejoining Roone Bay once again and seeing how the first tale ties in with this second one.
I would like to thank #DaisyOShea, #Netgalley and #Bookouture for an ARC of #TheIrishKey in exchange for an honest review.
This review appears on my blog at https://stinathebookaholic.blogspot.com/.
October 6, 2024
The Irish Key
Twas not for me!
For whatever reason when I started this book I thought it took place in present day. However, it mostly takes place sometime around the 1980’s (approximately because it never really says) over the course of a few months with a couple of flashbacks to the 30’s.
The descriptions of Ireland were good, but for me I wanted more of the romance. Also, it felt like Sean was more of a side character and I was reading my history book.
The story was good (predictable), but the writing style just wasn’t for me.
Twas not for me!
For whatever reason when I started this book I thought it took place in present day. However, it mostly takes place sometime around the 1980’s (approximately because it never really says) over the course of a few months with a couple of flashbacks to the 30’s.
The descriptions of Ireland were good, but for me I wanted more of the romance. Also, it felt like Sean was more of a side character and I was reading my history book.
The story was good (predictable), but the writing style just wasn’t for me.
December 13, 2024
The Irish Key by Daisy O'Shea is a clean romance with a hint of mystery. It takes place in Ireland pre-1996, as the book mentions that divorce is illegal there. The technology referenced is from the same era - typewriters, Dictaphones, and a slightly terrifying new computer. The writing was descriptive and atmospheric, but the pacing was a bit on the slow side. I also felt like the romance in the book was pretty bland. There isn't a lot of character development, but having never been to Ireland myself, I found the depictions of the area charming.
October 18, 2024
Maybe Kristin Hannah has ruined me because when I read that something is “devastatingly heartbreaking” and “secrets will be revealed” I expect to shed at least one tear and not predict most of the ending half way through the book.
I found her descriptions of Ireland magical. But the story could use work. This isn’t National Geographic. And we are really using Sean and Colm for character names? How typically Irish.
This won’t stop me from reading another book by this author. Yet.
I found her descriptions of Ireland magical. But the story could use work. This isn’t National Geographic. And we are really using Sean and Colm for character names? How typically Irish.
This won’t stop me from reading another book by this author. Yet.
August 11, 2024
3.5 ⭐️ That was a sweet little Irish fiction ☘️ one of those where everything is all fixed and happy in the end, just a lovely little quick read!
April 26, 2024
Daisy O’Shea is a new author for me and what a pleasure it was to read The Irish Key. It’s a story of family, secrets and of having the courage to find oneself. The setting is absolutely perfect although at times it did border slightly onto the side of being a bit too twee in describing Irish people and Irish life. But the author reeled this in just at that juncture when I felt things were going a bit overboard. If you’ve never been to Ireland then by the time you finish this book you certainly will feel as of you were there alongside the main character Grace as she navigates through a tough time in her life having taking a very brave decision. The stunning scenery of West Cork, the rugged and harsh landscape not much good for farming, the coastline and the power of the sea and the weather and not to mention the small fictional village where narrow mindedness still very much existed all really helped to being the plot to life.
We meet Grace and her six-year-old daughter Olivia as they are fleeing from Birmingham. They hope to reach a cottage in West Cork which was given to her as a safe haven by her grandmother. There is a dark and menacing tone to the first quarter of the book as Grace is mentally and physically exhausted having finally plucked up the courage to leave her controlling husband Graham. Grace can’t settle until she has reached the cottage which she has never laid eyes upon before. It’s her last chance. Her only hope that she can break free from the shackles and unpleasantness that Graham has forced upon her. It’s evident that it has taken a lot of will power and strength for Grace to break free. Olivia thinks that they are just going on a holiday. But Grace has plans for this to be a long term move and clings to the belief that Roone Bay will offer the peace, independence and contentment she so desperately needs. The author does a very good job of showing Graham in his true light and it’s only now that Grace has made the leap that she can see how manipulative, arrogant, possessive and overbearing he truly was.
There were no redeeming characteristics to Graham and even later when we meet him he has not changed one bit and always had ulterior motives at the centre of everything he does. Grace was a woman under a black cloud who was trying to do the best for her daughter in the long term. She knew she couldn’t help her stepson Arthur as he was older and had been under Graham’s influence for far too long but it wasn’t too late to save Olivia and of course herself. She had bided her time and saved some money and when her grandmother said she could use the key that she had given her at the time of her wedding. Well there was the opportunity she needed having fallen directly into her lap.
As Grace and Olivia reach Roone Bay, a small and isolated townland area near the coast, her vision of a warm and safe cottage is shattered as the cottage is nothing more than a wreck. Having been abandoned for decades and left exposed to the elements it’s nowhere near fit for purpose. This is where an angel in disguise steps in and becomes a saviour for Grace and that person is Sean. What a man Sean was, kind, considerate, caring and always looking forward in a positive light to the future. He was strong, steadfast and impenetrable. He was reliable at a time when Grace needed stability and certainty in her life. His job as a builder slotted ever so perfectly into the plot as he set about renovating the cottage to make it a dream home for Grace and Olivia. In doing so a close friendship was formed and yes it could have been a bit too predictable and just that bit too fast but sure look that’s the way this book was going to go no matter what and I didn’t really care as I was enjoying it so much.
The renovating of the cottage is not the sole focus of the book and I am glad that it wasn’t. New characters needed to be introduced and this did occur and allowed for new strand to open up and there was an element of a metaphorical key unlocking the secrets of the past. Grace gets a job and a sanctuary whilst works are ongoing on the cottage and this allowed for both herself and Olivia to flourish. The new characters that featured at this point were wonderful, homely, caring and gentle. Grace, slowly starts to uncover her own family history and there were plenty of twists and turns to this and also in the present. I have to say I wasn’t expecting that ending with regards to a certain someone. It was almost imperceptible to have guessed at it and I thought bravo to the author you certainly had the wool pulled over my eyes. Connections, trust, love and endurance are established but not before some danger and dramatics were thrown in too all of which was very enjoyable to read.
I will say though it took me some to establish the actual time period of the book. It would have been handy to have what year it was mentioned at the top of the first chapter as I was reading through and several things made me think oh this is not set in the present modern day as they were talking about things that I know for sure can and do happen here in Ireland now. It’s only when we go back to the past set around the 1930’s that it made sense to me as to what decade Grace’s story was set and then a lot of things she said and did and other characters too made an awful lot of sense. I did find it funny actually the scene where Grace and Noel are introduced to this new and wonderful machine that would be so much better than a typewriter and you could even save things on a floppy disc. Their wonder and awe was a sight to behold and Grace was very dubious about this new technology. Over 40 years later as I sit and write this on my laptop it just shows how far we have come.
One another point that I found a bit disconcerting was around the halfway point the chapters were then told from a different viewpoint and yes thankfully the year was mentioned which did help things. But the chapters were not in year order, so events were told and then we went back again and learned more. I know that this was deliberate and was a way of slowly unravelling secrets even though admittedly I had guessed at most of them fairly early on. I found this technique a bit confusing at times and perhaps a wrong fit for the book and perhaps having these chapters starting earlier on in the book and maybe even more of them might have worked better for me. But that’s just my own opinion and in no way do I mean it as a big negative because it wasn’t it’s just the thoughts that sprung to mind as I read.
Overall, this was a very good book and I found myself drawn into it right from the start. Grace was incredibly well written and the fear and angst she was experiencing was portrayed very well. It’s not often I can say this as I loved the author Maeve Binchy’s writing and stories so very much but there are glimpses here of those characteristics in the writing of Daisy O’Shea. She has a certain style of writing that I really enjoyed reading and I hope she writes lots more books in the future. I’d love them to be even longer with even more of a mystery element because that trait she did nail very well. Grace went from someone meek and curtailed by another person to a strong independent woman whose inherent strength lead to fulfilment and happiness. Both of which she very much deserved. For a debut story for Bookouture Daisy O’Shea has written a book that is provides you with hope and light in a time of darkness and she certainly had me rapidly turning the pages to discover what would happen next.
We meet Grace and her six-year-old daughter Olivia as they are fleeing from Birmingham. They hope to reach a cottage in West Cork which was given to her as a safe haven by her grandmother. There is a dark and menacing tone to the first quarter of the book as Grace is mentally and physically exhausted having finally plucked up the courage to leave her controlling husband Graham. Grace can’t settle until she has reached the cottage which she has never laid eyes upon before. It’s her last chance. Her only hope that she can break free from the shackles and unpleasantness that Graham has forced upon her. It’s evident that it has taken a lot of will power and strength for Grace to break free. Olivia thinks that they are just going on a holiday. But Grace has plans for this to be a long term move and clings to the belief that Roone Bay will offer the peace, independence and contentment she so desperately needs. The author does a very good job of showing Graham in his true light and it’s only now that Grace has made the leap that she can see how manipulative, arrogant, possessive and overbearing he truly was.
There were no redeeming characteristics to Graham and even later when we meet him he has not changed one bit and always had ulterior motives at the centre of everything he does. Grace was a woman under a black cloud who was trying to do the best for her daughter in the long term. She knew she couldn’t help her stepson Arthur as he was older and had been under Graham’s influence for far too long but it wasn’t too late to save Olivia and of course herself. She had bided her time and saved some money and when her grandmother said she could use the key that she had given her at the time of her wedding. Well there was the opportunity she needed having fallen directly into her lap.
As Grace and Olivia reach Roone Bay, a small and isolated townland area near the coast, her vision of a warm and safe cottage is shattered as the cottage is nothing more than a wreck. Having been abandoned for decades and left exposed to the elements it’s nowhere near fit for purpose. This is where an angel in disguise steps in and becomes a saviour for Grace and that person is Sean. What a man Sean was, kind, considerate, caring and always looking forward in a positive light to the future. He was strong, steadfast and impenetrable. He was reliable at a time when Grace needed stability and certainty in her life. His job as a builder slotted ever so perfectly into the plot as he set about renovating the cottage to make it a dream home for Grace and Olivia. In doing so a close friendship was formed and yes it could have been a bit too predictable and just that bit too fast but sure look that’s the way this book was going to go no matter what and I didn’t really care as I was enjoying it so much.
The renovating of the cottage is not the sole focus of the book and I am glad that it wasn’t. New characters needed to be introduced and this did occur and allowed for new strand to open up and there was an element of a metaphorical key unlocking the secrets of the past. Grace gets a job and a sanctuary whilst works are ongoing on the cottage and this allowed for both herself and Olivia to flourish. The new characters that featured at this point were wonderful, homely, caring and gentle. Grace, slowly starts to uncover her own family history and there were plenty of twists and turns to this and also in the present. I have to say I wasn’t expecting that ending with regards to a certain someone. It was almost imperceptible to have guessed at it and I thought bravo to the author you certainly had the wool pulled over my eyes. Connections, trust, love and endurance are established but not before some danger and dramatics were thrown in too all of which was very enjoyable to read.
I will say though it took me some to establish the actual time period of the book. It would have been handy to have what year it was mentioned at the top of the first chapter as I was reading through and several things made me think oh this is not set in the present modern day as they were talking about things that I know for sure can and do happen here in Ireland now. It’s only when we go back to the past set around the 1930’s that it made sense to me as to what decade Grace’s story was set and then a lot of things she said and did and other characters too made an awful lot of sense. I did find it funny actually the scene where Grace and Noel are introduced to this new and wonderful machine that would be so much better than a typewriter and you could even save things on a floppy disc. Their wonder and awe was a sight to behold and Grace was very dubious about this new technology. Over 40 years later as I sit and write this on my laptop it just shows how far we have come.
One another point that I found a bit disconcerting was around the halfway point the chapters were then told from a different viewpoint and yes thankfully the year was mentioned which did help things. But the chapters were not in year order, so events were told and then we went back again and learned more. I know that this was deliberate and was a way of slowly unravelling secrets even though admittedly I had guessed at most of them fairly early on. I found this technique a bit confusing at times and perhaps a wrong fit for the book and perhaps having these chapters starting earlier on in the book and maybe even more of them might have worked better for me. But that’s just my own opinion and in no way do I mean it as a big negative because it wasn’t it’s just the thoughts that sprung to mind as I read.
Overall, this was a very good book and I found myself drawn into it right from the start. Grace was incredibly well written and the fear and angst she was experiencing was portrayed very well. It’s not often I can say this as I loved the author Maeve Binchy’s writing and stories so very much but there are glimpses here of those characteristics in the writing of Daisy O’Shea. She has a certain style of writing that I really enjoyed reading and I hope she writes lots more books in the future. I’d love them to be even longer with even more of a mystery element because that trait she did nail very well. Grace went from someone meek and curtailed by another person to a strong independent woman whose inherent strength lead to fulfilment and happiness. Both of which she very much deserved. For a debut story for Bookouture Daisy O’Shea has written a book that is provides you with hope and light in a time of darkness and she certainly had me rapidly turning the pages to discover what would happen next.
July 6, 2025
Een feelgood roman, lekker om te lezen in een tijd van klussen. en hoewel het echt feelgood is, heeft het boek ook thema's waarover je aan het denken wordt gezet. Wat is je eigenwaarde en waar ligt je grens en wat doe je dan? Best interessant om over na te denken. De liefdesverhaallijn is wel voorspelbaar en ook de link tussen twee hoofdpersonages is vrij gemakkelijk in te vullen. Wel is de omgeving in Ierland prachtig omschreven en was het gewoon een lekker boek om even 'snel tussendoor' te lezen.
July 21, 2025
3.5 stars rounded up! Transported to Ireland within the pages of Daisy O'Shea's beautiful novel. I cared about the characters, even if it was a little bit predictable.
August 13, 2025
leest lekker weg, maar ook voorspelbaar. prima zomer boek.
February 11, 2025
Predictable but sweet nonetheless
September 22, 2024
A lovely great read that sweeps over the centuries.
The book describes the hardship found Southern Island generations ago, the remotenees and the community spirit.
When Grace's marriage was failing in England, she needed to escape, so with the key to her great grandparents cottage in Roone Bay and her daughter, they headed over the sea.
Grace meets various people and her life begins to improve; she finds out secrets of the past and finally can she confront her overpowering husband.
Great descriptions of Ireland.
The book describes the hardship found Southern Island generations ago, the remotenees and the community spirit.
When Grace's marriage was failing in England, she needed to escape, so with the key to her great grandparents cottage in Roone Bay and her daughter, they headed over the sea.
Grace meets various people and her life begins to improve; she finds out secrets of the past and finally can she confront her overpowering husband.
Great descriptions of Ireland.
September 20, 2024
This is such a heartwarming story! It's not the type of book I usually read but I thoroughly enjoyed it. I like that there's not too many characters because it feels like you really get to know them. The scenery seems stunning and makes me want to visit! There's a twist that I really enjoyed. Some parts are really predictable but I think that is a positive because it adds to the warmth of the book. I enjoyed this more than expected and would recommend it to others.
September 11, 2024
What an amazing book. Daisy O'Shea has written a fantastic continuation of the story of Roone Bay and the new hotel that is being built there. Noel O'Donovan had come back from America with money. He had bought the rundown Roone Manor and fixed it up for his home. Then, he began building a hotel just down the hill to bring visitors to this part of Ireland. His project was being eyed with suspicion by the natives, even though he had been brought up in this same village.
Grace had run away from her husband in England. She had done it because her husband never listened, only just ran over her objections. The straw that broken her back, was his plan to enroll their six-year-old daughter in a boarding school. Grace had taken Olivia and run off to the small town of Roon Bay in Ireland where her grandparents had come from. Sean Murphy gave them a ride to the cottage where she found it was a falling down mess.
S
Sean took them back to the village to a B&B where he told Grace he could renovate the cottage while she and Olivia had a bit of a break. Can he really do this within her budget? Will Grace and Olivia fine the peace they wish for?
Grace had run away from her husband in England. She had done it because her husband never listened, only just ran over her objections. The straw that broken her back, was his plan to enroll their six-year-old daughter in a boarding school. Grace had taken Olivia and run off to the small town of Roon Bay in Ireland where her grandparents had come from. Sean Murphy gave them a ride to the cottage where she found it was a falling down mess.
S
Sean took them back to the village to a B&B where he told Grace he could renovate the cottage while she and Olivia had a bit of a break. Can he really do this within her budget? Will Grace and Olivia fine the peace they wish for?
August 21, 2024
Intriguing story, both past and present, spanning four generations.
"When Grace arrives tired, tearful and rain-soaked in Roone Bay, the little Irish village where her grandmother Caitlin grew up, she is overwhelmed with longing for Caitlin’s safe, warm arms. The crumbling wreck of Caitlin’s once-beautiful childhood cottage – whose key Grace was given on her wedding day as a secret refuge if she ever needed it – is not the fresh start she’d hoped for. But with her young daughter Olivia to look after and a painful past to hide from, Grace has to stay strong.
Plucking up the courage to ask for help from her kind new neighbours – including quietly rugged carpenter Sean Murphy – Grace gets to work making the house habitable. Soon the view of the deep emerald sea has her captivated, Olivia is blossoming, and Sean makes her laugh in a way she’d forgotten she could…
As she learns more about her family history, with Sean by her side, Grace’s curiosity unearths only further mystery. What drove Caitlin away from Ireland, never to return? But when Grace uncovers a long-lost letter to Caitlin that reveals the heartbreaking truth, she is suddenly threatened by her own devastating secrets." synopsis copied
"When Grace arrives tired, tearful and rain-soaked in Roone Bay, the little Irish village where her grandmother Caitlin grew up, she is overwhelmed with longing for Caitlin’s safe, warm arms. The crumbling wreck of Caitlin’s once-beautiful childhood cottage – whose key Grace was given on her wedding day as a secret refuge if she ever needed it – is not the fresh start she’d hoped for. But with her young daughter Olivia to look after and a painful past to hide from, Grace has to stay strong.
Plucking up the courage to ask for help from her kind new neighbours – including quietly rugged carpenter Sean Murphy – Grace gets to work making the house habitable. Soon the view of the deep emerald sea has her captivated, Olivia is blossoming, and Sean makes her laugh in a way she’d forgotten she could…
As she learns more about her family history, with Sean by her side, Grace’s curiosity unearths only further mystery. What drove Caitlin away from Ireland, never to return? But when Grace uncovers a long-lost letter to Caitlin that reveals the heartbreaking truth, she is suddenly threatened by her own devastating secrets." synopsis copied
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August 7, 2024This is a wonderful hug of a book. Grace, from a working class English family, gets a job with a financier who falls in love with her and woos her. She marries him only to find out he has little compassion and after bearing his child she finds out he thinks that he owns them and that she should be grateful to be surrounded by luxury and for all the things he gives her. She feels trapped in an unhappy marriage -- especially when she finds out that he plans to send their daughter to boarding school the next year. Her grandmother has a cottage in Ireland and offers it to her. She has saved some money and decides to escape to Ireland with her daughter and live simply. In Ireland she realizes that her daughter is much happier playing outside and with animals than being dressed up and 'minding her manners'. She meets people who really care about one another and although the cottage is in disrepair she sets out to rebuild it so she and her daughter can live simply in Ireland. There is much more to the story. There are twists and turns in her life in Ireland and in family relations. You are pulled into the midst of her struggles and the struggles and history of Ireland. But alls well that ends well. It is well worth a read.
April 19, 2024
The Irish Key is a charming and easy read with a dash of family history, romance and mystery.
Escaping England and her controlling husband Graham, Grace arrives in Ireland with her young daughter, to live in her deceased grandfathers family home. There she starts to unravel her family mysteries - why did her grandparents flee Ireland? Who is enigmatic Noel, in the big manor?
I found the pacing of the book quite slow, and a bit predictable, but the overall effect was a relaxing and light read. I loved the Irish setting with its wild seas, historical architecture and unique customs and history. The romance subplot was sweet, and I really enjoyed the dynamics of Grace’s relationship with her daughter and determination to create a happy childhood for her.
One of my favourite scenes was the introduction of the computer. It was charming and perfectly captured the time and experiences of a small corner of the world slowly dealing with change.
Thank you Bookouture and NetGalley for a copy of this book. Opinions expressed are my own.
Escaping England and her controlling husband Graham, Grace arrives in Ireland with her young daughter, to live in her deceased grandfathers family home. There she starts to unravel her family mysteries - why did her grandparents flee Ireland? Who is enigmatic Noel, in the big manor?
I found the pacing of the book quite slow, and a bit predictable, but the overall effect was a relaxing and light read. I loved the Irish setting with its wild seas, historical architecture and unique customs and history. The romance subplot was sweet, and I really enjoyed the dynamics of Grace’s relationship with her daughter and determination to create a happy childhood for her.
One of my favourite scenes was the introduction of the computer. It was charming and perfectly captured the time and experiences of a small corner of the world slowly dealing with change.
Thank you Bookouture and NetGalley for a copy of this book. Opinions expressed are my own.
March 30, 2024
I enjoyed The Irish Key and from the beginning, I found myself invested in the very likeable characters. The main character, Grace, has left Graham, her controlling husband, in the UK and, along with her young daughter Olivia, travels to Ireland to live in the cottage by the sea which had belonged to her grandfather. This is not a true dual timeline story but one with many flashbacks which explain what happened in the past. Why did Grace's grandmother, Caitlin, leave Ireland and never return? Who is the elderly Noel O'Donovan who gives Grace a job and invites her and Olivia to move in with him in his mansion while Grace finishes renovations on the cottage? I found myself reading way longer than I normally would have as I wanted to find out what would happen next! Daisy O'Shea has a very easy-to-read writing style and I look forward to reading more by this author. Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for an ARC of this novel in exchange for an honest review.
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