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The Irish Cottage by the Sea: A BRAND NEW charming Irish tale of family, love and friendship from Clodagh Murphy for 2026
Discover the BRAND NEW charming, and uplifting read from BESTSELLER Clodagh Murphy, perfect for fans of Sheila O'Flanagan, Faith Hogan and Susanne O'Leary 🍀🩷 A fresh start by the Irish coast – and a second chance at love where she least expects it...
When single mum Lou moves from the chaos of Dublin to a forgotten seaside cottage in Dingle, she hopes for a calmer life for her son, Jack – a place where he can grow up surrounded by the warmth of a small community.
But village life isn’t without its challenges. The cottage needs work and Lou needs a job, but at least Jack quickly makes friends – including Bo, the spirited daughter of Aidan, the head chef of the restaurant where Lou eventually finds work. Aidan is serious, skilled, and a little distant, yet there’s something about him Lou is drawn to.
Lou is firm in her decision not to get involved with anyone, not after the heartache Jack’s father caused them both. But as Lou and Aidan grow closer, they may just discover what matters family, community, and the unexpected joys of opening your heart again.
Set against the windswept beauty of Dingle, this is a story of new beginnings, the bonds that hold us together, and love that grows when you least expect it.
Praise for Clodagh
‘Beautifully written, funny and warm, Murphy has done it again’ Joanna Bolouri
‘A wonderful story of romance, sisterhood and community with a really strong will they/won’t they vibe’ BookMadJo
‘Once again, I loved my trip to Halfpenny Lane and I adored this book. I cannot wait for another visit’ Herding Cats
‘Sweet and funny, this second chance romance was a fun read’ Reviews in Heels
‘If you haven’t started this series yet there is still time to book your trip to the theatre – you don’t know what you are missing’ Kirsty’s Book Reviews
‘This is a lovely series and although it can be read as a standalone, reading the first in the series will add to the enjoyment’ Books, Life and Everything
When single mum Lou moves from the chaos of Dublin to a forgotten seaside cottage in Dingle, she hopes for a calmer life for her son, Jack – a place where he can grow up surrounded by the warmth of a small community.
But village life isn’t without its challenges. The cottage needs work and Lou needs a job, but at least Jack quickly makes friends – including Bo, the spirited daughter of Aidan, the head chef of the restaurant where Lou eventually finds work. Aidan is serious, skilled, and a little distant, yet there’s something about him Lou is drawn to.
Lou is firm in her decision not to get involved with anyone, not after the heartache Jack’s father caused them both. But as Lou and Aidan grow closer, they may just discover what matters family, community, and the unexpected joys of opening your heart again.
Set against the windswept beauty of Dingle, this is a story of new beginnings, the bonds that hold us together, and love that grows when you least expect it.
Praise for Clodagh
‘Beautifully written, funny and warm, Murphy has done it again’ Joanna Bolouri
‘A wonderful story of romance, sisterhood and community with a really strong will they/won’t they vibe’ BookMadJo
‘Once again, I loved my trip to Halfpenny Lane and I adored this book. I cannot wait for another visit’ Herding Cats
‘Sweet and funny, this second chance romance was a fun read’ Reviews in Heels
‘If you haven’t started this series yet there is still time to book your trip to the theatre – you don’t know what you are missing’ Kirsty’s Book Reviews
‘This is a lovely series and although it can be read as a standalone, reading the first in the series will add to the enjoyment’ Books, Life and Everything
322 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 22, 2026
30 people are currently reading
35 people want to read
About the author
Clodagh Murphy
22 books254 followersClodagh (rhymes with Yoda) is an Irish writer of romantic comedies. She lives in Dublin with a large circle of imaginary friends.
You can find Clodagh on Facebook too:
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Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews
April 23, 2026
ARC Review:
This was such a sweet story. It was a bit slower paced than I typically read, but was well worth sticking it out. Honestly, this book had such a sweet heartwarming vibe I really ended up enjoying.
I really enjoyed the characters as well. Lou is a strong fiercely independent single mother, who loves her son more than anything. Aidan is a successful single father who puts his daughter first in all things. Both of them are a bit hot tempered and prickly but also genuinely kind people. Throughout the story I got to watch Lou grow more trusting and willing to accept help when it’s offered. And I got to see Aidan loosen up and let go of the reigns a bit and trust others to take a bit more control in his his restaurant. Watching them grow as people alongside each other and help each other was so fun. And watching them fall for each other made me giddy.
This was a lovely read that I think those of you who like a slower paced romance will really enjoy!
This was such a sweet story. It was a bit slower paced than I typically read, but was well worth sticking it out. Honestly, this book had such a sweet heartwarming vibe I really ended up enjoying.
I really enjoyed the characters as well. Lou is a strong fiercely independent single mother, who loves her son more than anything. Aidan is a successful single father who puts his daughter first in all things. Both of them are a bit hot tempered and prickly but also genuinely kind people. Throughout the story I got to watch Lou grow more trusting and willing to accept help when it’s offered. And I got to see Aidan loosen up and let go of the reigns a bit and trust others to take a bit more control in his his restaurant. Watching them grow as people alongside each other and help each other was so fun. And watching them fall for each other made me giddy.
This was a lovely read that I think those of you who like a slower paced romance will really enjoy!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
The Irish Cottage by the Sea is a tender, uplifting story about starting over, finding your footing, and letting a small community stitch you back together in ways you never expected. When single mum Lou leaves the noise and pressure of Dublin for a forgotten cottage on the Dingle coast, she isn’t chasing a dream so much as a little peace—for herself, and for her son, Jack. What she finds is something far richer.
The windswept setting is beautifully drawn: salt‑sharp air, quiet lanes, a cottage that creaks with history, and a village that feels both wary and welcoming. Lou’s struggles are instantly relatable—the house needs more work than she can afford, the job hunt is daunting, and motherhood feels heavier when you’re carrying it alone. But Jack settles quickly, making friends with Bo, the spirited daughter of Aidan, the head chef at the restaurant where Lou eventually finds work.
Aidan is one of those quietly compelling characters—serious, steady, a little guarded—but there’s a warmth beneath the surface that Lou can’t help but notice. Their connection grows slowly, gently, in the spaces between shared shifts and small kindnesses. Lou’s determination not to fall for anyone again gives the story its emotional pull; she’s been hurt, she’s been left, and she’s built her life around not needing anyone. Watching her soften, almost in spite of herself, is one of the novel’s loveliest threads.
What the book captures so well is the way community can become a kind of healing. The friendships Lou forms, the sense of belonging Jack finds, the quiet beauty of the Dingle coastline—all of it nudges her toward the possibility of a life built on joy rather than survival.
The Irish Cottage by the Sea is a warm, hopeful story about new beginnings, second chances, and the unexpected ways love can return when you finally stop bracing for disappointment. A gentle, heartfelt escape set against the wild beauty of the Irish coast.
With thanks to Clodagh Murphy, the publisher and netgalley for the ARC
The windswept setting is beautifully drawn: salt‑sharp air, quiet lanes, a cottage that creaks with history, and a village that feels both wary and welcoming. Lou’s struggles are instantly relatable—the house needs more work than she can afford, the job hunt is daunting, and motherhood feels heavier when you’re carrying it alone. But Jack settles quickly, making friends with Bo, the spirited daughter of Aidan, the head chef at the restaurant where Lou eventually finds work.
Aidan is one of those quietly compelling characters—serious, steady, a little guarded—but there’s a warmth beneath the surface that Lou can’t help but notice. Their connection grows slowly, gently, in the spaces between shared shifts and small kindnesses. Lou’s determination not to fall for anyone again gives the story its emotional pull; she’s been hurt, she’s been left, and she’s built her life around not needing anyone. Watching her soften, almost in spite of herself, is one of the novel’s loveliest threads.
What the book captures so well is the way community can become a kind of healing. The friendships Lou forms, the sense of belonging Jack finds, the quiet beauty of the Dingle coastline—all of it nudges her toward the possibility of a life built on joy rather than survival.
The Irish Cottage by the Sea is a warm, hopeful story about new beginnings, second chances, and the unexpected ways love can return when you finally stop bracing for disappointment. A gentle, heartfelt escape set against the wild beauty of the Irish coast.
With thanks to Clodagh Murphy, the publisher and netgalley for the ARC
April 24, 2026
Lou and her son Jack have inherited a cottage along the Irish coast. When Lou arrives, she looks for a job at a local restaurant. She meets Aidan, the chef and owner of the restaurant. Aidan is also a single parent, a father to his daughter Bo, who is the same age as Jack. Their children become friends.
Focused on building her and Jack’s new life in Dingle, she is not prioritizing a relationship. However, she notices how she and Aidan have chemistry, and their connection and feelings for each other grow.
I thought the build of their relationship was well-paced. The slow burn is natural as they navigate their feelings for each other, but also building a new relationship as single parents. As we root for them in their journey, I also thought it was both realistic and heartfelt.
This story centers on community. I enjoyed reading how supportive all the residents were of each other and how welcoming they were to Lou and Jack. They immediately stepped in to support them in the midst of the custody battle Lou is facing with her ex.
I enjoyed reading how Lou re-discovers her excitement for cooking and being a chef again and Aidan’s support for her.
The descriptions of Dingle paint a picture of an idyllic town along the coast. It feels peaceful and calming. I think it reflects what Lou is looking for in building a new home for her family.
Thank you to Clodagh Murphy and Love Books Tours for the opportunity to be part of the tour! I was provided a copy of this book and am leaving an honest review.
Focused on building her and Jack’s new life in Dingle, she is not prioritizing a relationship. However, she notices how she and Aidan have chemistry, and their connection and feelings for each other grow.
I thought the build of their relationship was well-paced. The slow burn is natural as they navigate their feelings for each other, but also building a new relationship as single parents. As we root for them in their journey, I also thought it was both realistic and heartfelt.
This story centers on community. I enjoyed reading how supportive all the residents were of each other and how welcoming they were to Lou and Jack. They immediately stepped in to support them in the midst of the custody battle Lou is facing with her ex.
I enjoyed reading how Lou re-discovers her excitement for cooking and being a chef again and Aidan’s support for her.
The descriptions of Dingle paint a picture of an idyllic town along the coast. It feels peaceful and calming. I think it reflects what Lou is looking for in building a new home for her family.
Thank you to Clodagh Murphy and Love Books Tours for the opportunity to be part of the tour! I was provided a copy of this book and am leaving an honest review.
May 1, 2026
This was a delicious book in more ways than one!
Lou finds out that she has inherited a little cottage in Dingle from her father;s godmother (or Jack has, but that's another story), and this is where her tale starts!
She is a cook that hasn't managed to finish cooking school so is working whatever job she can get to support her son. When she first goes to check out the cottage, she decides to check out a restaurant run by renowned chef, Aidan.
Step forward a few weeks, she moves to her new little home and becomes a part of her new community, and life becomes more than she can imagine.... Jack starts school, and becomes fast friends with Aidan's daughter, Bo. She starts working in her dream industry at Coast.. where everything changes.
She is not someone who accepts help easily but becomes part of a community who just wants to help, and she realises what she was missing as a child, and can become herself again. She is able to process what she missed, both from childhood trauma, and from her crazy ex (Jack's father).
The latter part of the book shows how loved she and Jack are,, and how one small step can change everything! She has new friends, a new life and a new job. I loved the ending and the twist!
I would recommend everyone to read this, it's funny but also has a serious tone to it apart being a single parent. I am now wanting to experience this setting on the coast of Ireland and enjoy some of Aidan's tasty food!
Lou finds out that she has inherited a little cottage in Dingle from her father;s godmother (or Jack has, but that's another story), and this is where her tale starts!
She is a cook that hasn't managed to finish cooking school so is working whatever job she can get to support her son. When she first goes to check out the cottage, she decides to check out a restaurant run by renowned chef, Aidan.
Step forward a few weeks, she moves to her new little home and becomes a part of her new community, and life becomes more than she can imagine.... Jack starts school, and becomes fast friends with Aidan's daughter, Bo. She starts working in her dream industry at Coast.. where everything changes.
She is not someone who accepts help easily but becomes part of a community who just wants to help, and she realises what she was missing as a child, and can become herself again. She is able to process what she missed, both from childhood trauma, and from her crazy ex (Jack's father).
The latter part of the book shows how loved she and Jack are,, and how one small step can change everything! She has new friends, a new life and a new job. I loved the ending and the twist!
I would recommend everyone to read this, it's funny but also has a serious tone to it apart being a single parent. I am now wanting to experience this setting on the coast of Ireland and enjoy some of Aidan's tasty food!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Lou is a single mother who, surprisingly to her, has inherited a house in a small town. She and her son move and hope to find life better. Lou is a gutsy woman who has no problem standing up for herself and doing whatever it takes to provide a better life for Jack.
Her dream is to cook at a high class restaurant, but she accepts a wait job in a classy restaurant owned by Aiden. He is also the chef and a single parent to his daughter, Bo. There is some immediate heat between the two of them, but neither will admit it.
I loved that they connected by both caring so much about their children. I also loved that they really fought to keep things above board until they just couldn't any more. Combustion! Aiden was just right for the spicy attitude of Lou. When she started sending things off track, he didn't back off. He pushed through to make her see what he was actually trying to say instead of just walking away.
What I wouldn't give to have that trait!
I really enjoyed this book. Murphy has written a story of staying true to yourself, your family and your friends, and learning that it's okay to lean on someone and ask for help. An overall great read and heartwarming conclusion. I will definitely read more by this author. 4.5 stars.
Thanks to Boldwood Books for the digital copy via NetGalley. All thoughts are my own.
Her dream is to cook at a high class restaurant, but she accepts a wait job in a classy restaurant owned by Aiden. He is also the chef and a single parent to his daughter, Bo. There is some immediate heat between the two of them, but neither will admit it.
I loved that they connected by both caring so much about their children. I also loved that they really fought to keep things above board until they just couldn't any more. Combustion! Aiden was just right for the spicy attitude of Lou. When she started sending things off track, he didn't back off. He pushed through to make her see what he was actually trying to say instead of just walking away.
What I wouldn't give to have that trait!
I really enjoyed this book. Murphy has written a story of staying true to yourself, your family and your friends, and learning that it's okay to lean on someone and ask for help. An overall great read and heartwarming conclusion. I will definitely read more by this author. 4.5 stars.
Thanks to Boldwood Books for the digital copy via NetGalley. All thoughts are my own.
April 23, 2026
I always love a story set in Ireland, its a beautiful country and the characters are always so interesting. I also am a sucker for a gorgeous front cover, and this is beautiful!
This is a lovely Irish contemporary story with real issues faced by some very relatable characters. They are in Dingle, which was the setting of another of this authors books, and I recognised some of the names mentioned which was great to see despite it not being a linked series from what I can tell.
I think a romance that has some young kids in it makes for some of the cutest stories. Here we meet Bo and Jack starting primary school together and they are such wee sweethearts.
Lou and Aidan are the main characters, and they both have so much going on personally, but their chemistry is undeniable. The author does lead us down an incredible slow burn though!
I knew that as soon as Rob was mentioned, the story would twist in that direction, I did feel like it was all a little rushed into the last few pages though and would have preferred that to be a bigger focal point in building up Lou's confidence in herself and her relationships with her new friends.
This is a super quick read, I finished it in a couple of sittings over the course of a day. I really like the authors writing style and hope to read more from her, but especially from Dingle, soon!
This is a lovely Irish contemporary story with real issues faced by some very relatable characters. They are in Dingle, which was the setting of another of this authors books, and I recognised some of the names mentioned which was great to see despite it not being a linked series from what I can tell.
I think a romance that has some young kids in it makes for some of the cutest stories. Here we meet Bo and Jack starting primary school together and they are such wee sweethearts.
Lou and Aidan are the main characters, and they both have so much going on personally, but their chemistry is undeniable. The author does lead us down an incredible slow burn though!
I knew that as soon as Rob was mentioned, the story would twist in that direction, I did feel like it was all a little rushed into the last few pages though and would have preferred that to be a bigger focal point in building up Lou's confidence in herself and her relationships with her new friends.
This is a super quick read, I finished it in a couple of sittings over the course of a day. I really like the authors writing style and hope to read more from her, but especially from Dingle, soon!
April 7, 2026
Thank you Boldwood Books and NetGalley for this ARC, coming out April 22nd.
I absolutely adored this story.
Set in beautiful Dingle, Co. Kerry - and honestly, what a stunning setting for a book like this — this is a warm, hopeful story about fresh starts, family, and finding the courage to build a new life.
Lou, a single mum, inherits a cottage and moves from Dublin to Kerry with her five-year-old son, Jack. She’s forced to uproot their lives and start over, hoping this unexpected change might lead to something better for them both. When she begins looking for work, she meets Aiden, the owner and head chef of a local restaurant, Coast.
What follows is a lovely slow-burn romance wrapped in gorgeous coastal scenery, delicious food, sharp banter, and plenty of heart. I really loved how the story balanced romance with Lou’s own journey as she tries to chase her dream of becoming a chef. And Aiden's family dynamics? Chaotic, nosy, no-boundaries energy - but in the way that somehow still feels like a warm hug.
This is such an easy book to sink into, and I’d strongly recommend it to anyone who loves Irish settings, slow-burn romance, and stories full of warmth, perseverance, and second chances.
A strong 4.5 stars from me.
I absolutely adored this story.
Set in beautiful Dingle, Co. Kerry - and honestly, what a stunning setting for a book like this — this is a warm, hopeful story about fresh starts, family, and finding the courage to build a new life.
Lou, a single mum, inherits a cottage and moves from Dublin to Kerry with her five-year-old son, Jack. She’s forced to uproot their lives and start over, hoping this unexpected change might lead to something better for them both. When she begins looking for work, she meets Aiden, the owner and head chef of a local restaurant, Coast.
What follows is a lovely slow-burn romance wrapped in gorgeous coastal scenery, delicious food, sharp banter, and plenty of heart. I really loved how the story balanced romance with Lou’s own journey as she tries to chase her dream of becoming a chef. And Aiden's family dynamics? Chaotic, nosy, no-boundaries energy - but in the way that somehow still feels like a warm hug.
This is such an easy book to sink into, and I’d strongly recommend it to anyone who loves Irish settings, slow-burn romance, and stories full of warmth, perseverance, and second chances.
A strong 4.5 stars from me.
April 25, 2026
This was the very definition of a cosy romance, with beautifully developed characters and a setting you can completely sink into.
When Lou inherits a cottage by the sea, she moves from Dublin to Dingle with her five-year-old son Jack, hoping for a fresh start. What she finds, though, is so much more than a new home. She’s welcomed into a warm, close-knit community that quickly becomes something special.
There’s so much to love here. The Irish coastal setting is vivid and atmospheric, the side characters are richly drawn (Jack and Bo will steal your heart!), and the found family element adds so much heart. At its core is a sweet, slow-burn romance between Lou and Aidan that unfolds in a really natural, satisfying way.
I also appreciated that Lou’s journey isn’t all smooth sailing. She carries emotional baggage from her past, and her determination to build a better life for Jack feels authentic and grounded. The reappearance of her ex adds tension and challenges her growth, but it also highlights her strength and resilience. Through it all, with support from Aidan and his family, she learns that accepting help doesn’t make her weak—it makes her stronger.
A truly feel-good, uplifting read filled with warmth, community, and second chances.
When Lou inherits a cottage by the sea, she moves from Dublin to Dingle with her five-year-old son Jack, hoping for a fresh start. What she finds, though, is so much more than a new home. She’s welcomed into a warm, close-knit community that quickly becomes something special.
There’s so much to love here. The Irish coastal setting is vivid and atmospheric, the side characters are richly drawn (Jack and Bo will steal your heart!), and the found family element adds so much heart. At its core is a sweet, slow-burn romance between Lou and Aidan that unfolds in a really natural, satisfying way.
I also appreciated that Lou’s journey isn’t all smooth sailing. She carries emotional baggage from her past, and her determination to build a better life for Jack feels authentic and grounded. The reappearance of her ex adds tension and challenges her growth, but it also highlights her strength and resilience. Through it all, with support from Aidan and his family, she learns that accepting help doesn’t make her weak—it makes her stronger.
A truly feel-good, uplifting read filled with warmth, community, and second chances.
April 4, 2026
3.75 ⭐️
This was a cozy and easy read. Definitely a good book to curl up with during all the rain we’ve had this past week.
I really enjoyed getting to follow along on Lou’s journey as she and her son Jack adjusted to their new life in Dingle. It was nice seeing Lou grow in confidence and find her voice throughout the book.
I did really like Aidan as a character as well and I thought it was interesting to see the similarities and differences between him and Lou as the story progressed. They’re both single parents, trying their best to do right by their children while struggling with the baggage they both carry from previous chapters of their lives. I found the back and forth of their relationship to be really intriguing and realistic.
I will say that Jack and Aidan’s daughter Bo were the standouts for me though. Their friendship was so cute and I found myself most drawn into the story in scenes where they were included.
This is the first book of Clodagh Murphy’s that I’ve read, but I’m definitely going to be looking into her other books!
Thank you to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for the eARC!
This was a cozy and easy read. Definitely a good book to curl up with during all the rain we’ve had this past week.
I really enjoyed getting to follow along on Lou’s journey as she and her son Jack adjusted to their new life in Dingle. It was nice seeing Lou grow in confidence and find her voice throughout the book.
I did really like Aidan as a character as well and I thought it was interesting to see the similarities and differences between him and Lou as the story progressed. They’re both single parents, trying their best to do right by their children while struggling with the baggage they both carry from previous chapters of their lives. I found the back and forth of their relationship to be really intriguing and realistic.
I will say that Jack and Aidan’s daughter Bo were the standouts for me though. Their friendship was so cute and I found myself most drawn into the story in scenes where they were included.
This is the first book of Clodagh Murphy’s that I’ve read, but I’m definitely going to be looking into her other books!
Thank you to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for the eARC!
April 25, 2026
My first publication by this author and it certainly won’t be the last.
It’s a heartwarming and uplifting storyline about starting over when you get a surprise windfall’.
Single mum Lou and her son live in Dublin which is full of chaos, noise and what not else. Living with her friends as her safety bubble she is unsure what to do when she receives a letter from a solicitor informing her that her son has been named as the sole beneficiary in someone’s will - someone who neither of them have heard of.
They go for a visit and to collect the keys to this property, deciding to spend some time there exploring the local area having never been there before.
After meeting some of the locals and making enquiries regarding schools and jobs etc Lou decides that this could be a good move for them and proceeds to do so.
The home is still full of the previous owners items after she was taken into a care facility to recover from an injury but sadly passed away whilst there. The garden is overgrown with all sorts of weeds and plants left to their own devices so the first task is to declutter and make this a home for them both.
Th great thing about places like Dingle is the community feels so when you speak to someone talking about your plans for something, everyone joins in and helps you do it. There is no feeling of loneliness.
A truly lovely story well worth a read.
It’s a heartwarming and uplifting storyline about starting over when you get a surprise windfall’.
Single mum Lou and her son live in Dublin which is full of chaos, noise and what not else. Living with her friends as her safety bubble she is unsure what to do when she receives a letter from a solicitor informing her that her son has been named as the sole beneficiary in someone’s will - someone who neither of them have heard of.
They go for a visit and to collect the keys to this property, deciding to spend some time there exploring the local area having never been there before.
After meeting some of the locals and making enquiries regarding schools and jobs etc Lou decides that this could be a good move for them and proceeds to do so.
The home is still full of the previous owners items after she was taken into a care facility to recover from an injury but sadly passed away whilst there. The garden is overgrown with all sorts of weeds and plants left to their own devices so the first task is to declutter and make this a home for them both.
Th great thing about places like Dingle is the community feels so when you speak to someone talking about your plans for something, everyone joins in and helps you do it. There is no feeling of loneliness.
A truly lovely story well worth a read.
April 27, 2026
📆 single timeline.
👀 3rd person
🐢 -🐇 slow paced
What a lovely, gentle easy read this was. Which is what I needed after a few more intense books. The perfect cosy romance, although I'm still waiting for someone to leave me a house in Ireland!
I immediately liked Lou, she was a bit spiky but only because she knew what she wanted and wasn't going to let anyone walk over her. Aiden was equally spiky which of course meant they'd fall in love. I thought all of the characters were genuine and believable, with flaws and pluses. Like I said, I'm waiting for someone to leave me a house, especially if there's a hot romance waiting.
The plot was gentle, nice and slow but felt real and possible. Romances often ramp up very quickly in fiction so I found the slow speed refreshing and more like real life. If you like costal romance, second chances and stories that remind you of the important things in life then this one is for you.
👀 3rd person
🐢 -🐇 slow paced
What a lovely, gentle easy read this was. Which is what I needed after a few more intense books. The perfect cosy romance, although I'm still waiting for someone to leave me a house in Ireland!
I immediately liked Lou, she was a bit spiky but only because she knew what she wanted and wasn't going to let anyone walk over her. Aiden was equally spiky which of course meant they'd fall in love. I thought all of the characters were genuine and believable, with flaws and pluses. Like I said, I'm waiting for someone to leave me a house, especially if there's a hot romance waiting.
The plot was gentle, nice and slow but felt real and possible. Romances often ramp up very quickly in fiction so I found the slow speed refreshing and more like real life. If you like costal romance, second chances and stories that remind you of the important things in life then this one is for you.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Set in scenic Dingle on the southern coast of Ireland, this book will make you want to visit your nearest beach and eat lots of ice-cream - a perfect summer read!
Single parent Lou is thrilled to inherit an old cottage in Dingle, enabling Lou and her son Jack to move across the country from Dublin, just in time for Jack to start school. Lou's new boss Aidan is also a single parent, and as his daughter Bo befriends Jack on the first day of school, Lou and Aidan get to know each other outside the confines of work.
Perfect for fans of Emma Heatherington or Debbie Johnson, this book is a real feel good story of being brave and taking chances. Although set in the same universe as 'A Merry Irish Christmas' each book stands alone so no previous knowledge is required. Enjoy!
Thank you to Netgalley and Boldwood Books for the review copy.
#TheIrishCottageByTheSea
#NetGalley
Single parent Lou is thrilled to inherit an old cottage in Dingle, enabling Lou and her son Jack to move across the country from Dublin, just in time for Jack to start school. Lou's new boss Aidan is also a single parent, and as his daughter Bo befriends Jack on the first day of school, Lou and Aidan get to know each other outside the confines of work.
Perfect for fans of Emma Heatherington or Debbie Johnson, this book is a real feel good story of being brave and taking chances. Although set in the same universe as 'A Merry Irish Christmas' each book stands alone so no previous knowledge is required. Enjoy!
Thank you to Netgalley and Boldwood Books for the review copy.
#TheIrishCottageByTheSea
#NetGalley
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This is a cozy read about love, friendship and new beginnings. It’s the story of Lou (and her son) who inherits a run down cottage by the sea. She gets to have a fresh start and possibly a second chance at love/romance?
This ist he second book I’ve read by this author and was not disappointed! I thoroughly enjoyed the story. It was just what I needed during this rainy time we’re having right now.
Would absolutely recommend to anyone who enjoys an uplifting read about second chances.
Thank you to Boldwood Books, Clodagh Murphy and NetGalley for this ARC!
This ist he second book I’ve read by this author and was not disappointed! I thoroughly enjoyed the story. It was just what I needed during this rainy time we’re having right now.
Would absolutely recommend to anyone who enjoys an uplifting read about second chances.
Thank you to Boldwood Books, Clodagh Murphy and NetGalley for this ARC!
April 23, 2026
Check out The Irish Cottage by the Sea from Clodagh Murphy. Single mother Lou's luck is changing. She discovers her newly-inherited cottage on the Dingle Peninsual will be perfect for her and her young son Jack and the restauranteur, Aidan, who will be her future employer. As luck would have it, Aidan has a daughter the same age as Jack; and the two become fast friends. Of course, a cloud must mar in the guise of Jack's deadbeat dad must mar this brilliant new life. Enjoy a quick escape to Ireland while discovering how the happiness of this young family plays out.
May 1, 2026
Soft, cozy, cottage‑core
This was such a cute, cozy cottage‑core read. I loved slipping into Lou’s world and watching her rebuild a life for herself and her son on the Irish coast. The setting feels peaceful and comforting, and the whole story has that warm, small‑town charm that makes you want to curl up and read it in one sitting.
The slow‑burn romance between two single parents was sweet without ever feeling rushed, and I really enjoyed how naturally their connection grew. It’s a fast, feel‑good read about new beginnings, community, and finding a place where you finally feel at home.
This was such a cute, cozy cottage‑core read. I loved slipping into Lou’s world and watching her rebuild a life for herself and her son on the Irish coast. The setting feels peaceful and comforting, and the whole story has that warm, small‑town charm that makes you want to curl up and read it in one sitting.
The slow‑burn romance between two single parents was sweet without ever feeling rushed, and I really enjoyed how naturally their connection grew. It’s a fast, feel‑good read about new beginnings, community, and finding a place where you finally feel at home.
March 19, 2026
This was a great read, I loved reading about Lou and her son jack. They have moved to a small village after being left a house. They have settled in, she’s found a job and is loving life until her extra appears. There’s also Jacks best friend Bo and her dad. Loved this easy reading and can’t wait to read the next one in this series, it was an abrupt ending so it will be exciting to read what else is happening. A fantastic 5 star read. Thanks to Netgalley and the publishers for a copy.
April 1, 2026
Perfect book. Loved the story of Lou and her son Jack. It was a story about starting again. Lou moves from Dublin to Dingle into a cottage by the sea that she has inherited. It’s a gorgeous tale of Hope, strength and taking a leap. The scenery was breathtaking, the food delicious and the friendships she has and makes are beautiful. This is a great read. Thank you NetGalley for this arc in exchange for an honest review.
May 1, 2026
A wonderful story about a single mom, Lou, and her son, Jack, who move from Dublin to charming Dingle. Due to an unexpected inheritance, they have a home with a back yard and private access to the sea. Lou gets a job at a marvelous restaurant whose owner and chef, Aidan, is a single dad with a daughter, Bo, who is the same age as Jack.
I love the author's gentle storytelling that makes the town and characters seem real.
I love the author's gentle storytelling that makes the town and characters seem real.
April 24, 2026
Two people with young children and the same job interests . Aiden would be the boss and Lou would be the employee if they can work out for Lou to get the job. The kids also work their magic for the story. A feel good story that is sweet and great reading.
I received an ARC from NetGalley and Boldwood and leaving a review by my own choice.
I received an ARC from NetGalley and Boldwood and leaving a review by my own choice.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
A gentle story based round a feisty lady making a life for herself and her son . An inheritance lets her leave behind her old lifestyle and move forward . The storyline demonstrates how a sense of community helps overcome adversity
April 22, 2026
Single mom Lou moves from Dublin to Dingle after she inherits a cottage there. She's hoping for a calmer life there. She bonds with Aiden, who is also the head chef at the restaurant where she works. He's also a single parent, and their kids bond.
I really loved this story. I loved Lou and Aiden and their kids, who also bonded. I also enjoyed the descriptions of living in Dingle, Ireland. I really hope that there is a sequel to this story, because I loved Lou and Aiden, their kids, and their story. This story was:
- Irish small town romance
- single parent life
- friends to lovers
- found family
- restaurant life
- cottages makeover
Thanks to @boldwoodbooks, @netgalley and the author for this arc.
I really loved this story. I loved Lou and Aiden and their kids, who also bonded. I also enjoyed the descriptions of living in Dingle, Ireland. I really hope that there is a sequel to this story, because I loved Lou and Aiden, their kids, and their story. This story was:
- Irish small town romance
- single parent life
- friends to lovers
- found family
- restaurant life
- cottages makeover
Thanks to @boldwoodbooks, @netgalley and the author for this arc.
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