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Maggie O'Halloran #2
A New Home for the Irish Daughter
Maggie gazes out at the new and bustling city, promising herself she will do whatever it takes to make it her home, the place where she can finally follow her dreams…
Chicago, 1892: Maggie O’Halloran knows she is lucky to have escaped New York City with her life, after a notorious gang threatened her and her brother. Now, twisting the wedding ring on her finger, she knows her friend Brendan O’Donoghue’s plan to pretend to be married is sensible. But can she really pretend to be his wife when she doesn’t love him with her whole heart?
Walking Chicago’s cobbled streets, Maggie is more resolved than ever to rebuild her life and when she secures a job at the famous department store, Marshall Field & Company, she is delighted. But when ghosts of her past appear in the millinery department, she knows her true identity could be revealed at any moment, and her dreams once more reduced to ash.
When a chance encounter leads to Maggie making hats for Chicago’s World’s Fair, her desire to become fully independent feels closer than ever. But as gossip swirls about her relationship with her benefactor, can Maggie keep her head held high in this city she now calls home?
When Brendan finds himself in a perilous situation, Maggie’s courage is tested more than ever before. With danger looming, can she and Brendan survive it together? Or will they once more need to flee their home to find safety, and a chance to begin again?
The second book in the sweeping Maggie O’Halloran series, this is a heartbreaking and epic story about the importance of finding home and following your heart. Perfect for fans of Kristin Hannah, Kristin Harmel and Jean Grainger.
Chicago, 1892: Maggie O’Halloran knows she is lucky to have escaped New York City with her life, after a notorious gang threatened her and her brother. Now, twisting the wedding ring on her finger, she knows her friend Brendan O’Donoghue’s plan to pretend to be married is sensible. But can she really pretend to be his wife when she doesn’t love him with her whole heart?
Walking Chicago’s cobbled streets, Maggie is more resolved than ever to rebuild her life and when she secures a job at the famous department store, Marshall Field & Company, she is delighted. But when ghosts of her past appear in the millinery department, she knows her true identity could be revealed at any moment, and her dreams once more reduced to ash.
When a chance encounter leads to Maggie making hats for Chicago’s World’s Fair, her desire to become fully independent feels closer than ever. But as gossip swirls about her relationship with her benefactor, can Maggie keep her head held high in this city she now calls home?
When Brendan finds himself in a perilous situation, Maggie’s courage is tested more than ever before. With danger looming, can she and Brendan survive it together? Or will they once more need to flee their home to find safety, and a chance to begin again?
The second book in the sweeping Maggie O’Halloran series, this is a heartbreaking and epic story about the importance of finding home and following your heart. Perfect for fans of Kristin Hannah, Kristin Harmel and Jean Grainger.
- GenresHistorical Fiction
320 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 22, 2026
About the author
Kate Hewitt
936 books1,783 followersKate is the USA Today-bsetselling author of many books of both historical and contemporary fiction. Under the name Katharine Swartz, she is the author of the Tales from Goswell books, a series of time-slip novels set in the village of Goswell.
She likes to read women's fiction, mystery and thrillers, as well as historical novels. She particularly enjoys reading about well-drawn characters and avoids high-concept plots.
Having lived in both New York City and a tiny village on the windswept northwest coast of England, she now resides in a market town in Wales with her husband, five children, and two Golden Retrievers.
She likes to read women's fiction, mystery and thrillers, as well as historical novels. She particularly enjoys reading about well-drawn characters and avoids high-concept plots.
Having lived in both New York City and a tiny village on the windswept northwest coast of England, she now resides in a market town in Wales with her husband, five children, and two Golden Retrievers.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 42 reviews
May 24, 2026
A New Home for the Irish Daughter is the second book in the Maggie O'Halloran series. It picks up where the first book ended with Maggie, her brother Danny and her friend (who wishes it were more) Brendan O'Donoghue arrive in Chicago after fleeing New York due to Maggie being accused of being responsible for a fire in a mansion there. Not having much to start with, Brendan and Maggie pretend to be married so they can get a room in a boarding house. Once they acquire lodgings, it's time to find jobs. Danny gets a job working at the building of the site for the World's Columbian Exposition of 1893. Maggie gets a job working at Marshall Fields in the Millinery Department and Brendan ends up working a the meat packing plant. They are also looking for their father, as last they heard he was in Chicago. When Mrs. Stein shows up in Chicago, she tells Maggie that there are no charges against her and she can go back to New York if she wants. Things do not go smoothly for Maggie or Brendan and eventually, they have to make some very serious decisions about their future.
I liked this book even more than the first one. I really like how Kate Hewitt took real events that were happening at the time and used them in the plot of the book. We have Danny working at the Columbian Exposition (often called The World's Fair), the opening of the event coinciding with murders of women by one of the characters in the story, mirroring America's first recorded serial killer, H.H. Holmes. I also learned that Harry Selfridge worked at Marshall Fields before building his own Department Store empire in London. Maggie is hired by Selfridge to work at the story. I liked Danny much more in this book as he becomes responsible getting a job and helping the little group to settle in and survive in Chicago. Unfortunately Maggie makes some decisions that cause her to be fired from Marshall Fields, then opening her own shop and losing everything she worked for. Her and Brendan's relationship is up and down throughout the book and I just want her to realize what is right in front of her face. During the time, Irish immigrants didn't have it easy and that is certainly true for Maggie, Danny and Brendan. There is one scene that could trigger some readers, where Maggie is attacked, but Brendan comes to her rescue before she is violated. I am looking forward to what is next for this trio. I received a copy of the ebook from Bookouture, but I also purchased the audiobook. I both read and listened to this one and enjoyed both formats. I will say that the male voices are not as good I like them to be, but that didn't stop me from enjoying both reading and listening. If you enjoy historical fiction that is not related to wars, I recommend this book and series.
I liked this book even more than the first one. I really like how Kate Hewitt took real events that were happening at the time and used them in the plot of the book. We have Danny working at the Columbian Exposition (often called The World's Fair), the opening of the event coinciding with murders of women by one of the characters in the story, mirroring America's first recorded serial killer, H.H. Holmes. I also learned that Harry Selfridge worked at Marshall Fields before building his own Department Store empire in London. Maggie is hired by Selfridge to work at the story. I liked Danny much more in this book as he becomes responsible getting a job and helping the little group to settle in and survive in Chicago. Unfortunately Maggie makes some decisions that cause her to be fired from Marshall Fields, then opening her own shop and losing everything she worked for. Her and Brendan's relationship is up and down throughout the book and I just want her to realize what is right in front of her face. During the time, Irish immigrants didn't have it easy and that is certainly true for Maggie, Danny and Brendan. There is one scene that could trigger some readers, where Maggie is attacked, but Brendan comes to her rescue before she is violated. I am looking forward to what is next for this trio. I received a copy of the ebook from Bookouture, but I also purchased the audiobook. I both read and listened to this one and enjoyed both formats. I will say that the male voices are not as good I like them to be, but that didn't stop me from enjoying both reading and listening. If you enjoy historical fiction that is not related to wars, I recommend this book and series.
July 22, 2026
An enjoyable book…i didnt expect this book to be so enjoyable but it took me by surprise! Also, as i had lived in chicago for five winters i loved learning a bit of history about the place! Xx
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
A New Home for the Irish Daughter by Kate Hewitt picks up directly from where book one in the Maggie O’Halloran series left off and sees our three main characters Maggie, Danny and Brendan stepping off the train and arriving in Chicago in May 1892. Book one was a fast paced read detailing how Maggie and her younger brother Danny came from Ireland to New York and it subsequently followed the trials and tribulations that ensued with their new life. It wasn’t easy by any means. Instead it was very much an uphill struggle as they adjusted to a totally different life from what they were used to and in doing so encountered lots of trouble and strife. This in turn led to them having to flee New York, the reasons for which I won’t go into for it would spoil the plot of book one but when we return to the characters in the opening chapter things felt very tense and why wouldn’t they considering all that has happened and could potentially do so? Readers new to this series and starting with this second book needn’t worry that it will be impossible to follow. It delivers a satisfying story on its own and filling the blanks and making connections between the two books is easy.
I have to confess that the way Maggie treated Brendan in the first few chapters and for quite a good chunk of the book really irritated me bordering on anger. Herself and Brendan were pretending to be married once they reached Chicago in order to be able to get accommodation more easily and for reasons connected back to their leaving the Big Apple. But Maggie just seemed to go against this at every opportunity and there was many a time I thought she would give the game away before they had established themselves at all in a new city. Could she not have just gone along with things no matter how much it apparently seemed to be going against her being? Brendan had a heart of gold and there wasn’t sinister motives in what he was trying to do but I felt Maggie bucked and kicked against what he was trying to achieve. A bit more positivity and support was needed from her side. On the other hand, I did in some small way see where she was coming from and did feel a tiny shred of sympathy for her, but Brendan was just such a treasure that I was more on his side despite Maggie being the main female protagonist. This didn’t last for all the book but these are the thoughts that came into my head as I was reading near enough up to the midway point.
Brendan has been a saviour for Maggie in more ways than one. He took herself and Danny under his wing and provided for them when they had nothing and were very near to the depths of despair and in doing so his life was altered in ways unimaginable. Yes, I think his intentions are very genuine but the fact he harbours feelings for Maggie means that he will always go that extra mile. Although Maggie tries to hide it I think deep, deep down she has feelings for Brendan, but she fights, suppresses and rallies against them partly because she is very stubborn and also because she is a fiercely independent woman. She has firm dreams and aspirations, and this is to be admired. She doesn’t see herself constrained by the rules of society placed upon women at the time. Yes, we can sense that she would enjoying having love and romance in her life but being married and tied to the house raising children is not for her. She wants to fulfil her dreams to be a milliner. I feel if she could have the balance between a home and work life without being frowned than she would certainly go for that.
I enjoyed the plot of the book overall although I did feel some aspects were repetitive so to speak that they had featured in book one but this time what made them different were a different setting and a few new characters. But look I got over that and it’s me being super picky because truly there was a lot to sink your teeth into once again as Maggie tries to establish a new life for herself and Danny in Chicago. I loved the historical elements throughout that were true. The job that Maggie gets in Fields department story and her meeting Mr. Selfridge a name we are all familiar with. All the thousands of workers toiling day and night on the site where the World Fair is to open. The character of Dr. Holmes I had previously known nothing about, but I had my suspicions throughout as instantly he came across as very creepy and weird. Also the growth of Chicago at the time as a new exciting and bustling city. We just take it for granted these days that those impressive American cites were always there and we give little thought to it. So I found it fascinating. I really appreciated the authors end notes regarding these aspects of the story as it gave me a deeper understanding.
Maggie is a person who spends her life waiting for something more to happen. At times, I felt she really ought to just live in the moment and appreciate the sacrifices that Danny had made for them. But a chasm opens up between the pair and Maggie found herself travelling down a path that to me just seemed that little bit too good to be true. Theo, the son of Mrs. Stein, comes back into her life and she grabs the opportunities that he presents with open arms but I wanted her to be more cautious. Everything seemed to be happening too quickly with regards to her career and I could see things come crashing down if she wasn’t careful. She was almost a bit gullible because she was so intent on making a success of things. So much so that she isolated herself from Danny and Brendan leading to loneliness. I wondered when push came to shove and things once again turned sour would the two men be there for her or would the tables turn and she be the one to help them?
I thoroughly enjoyed A New Home for the Irish Daughter and to be honest I’m surprised how much so given that I haven’t read and wouldn’t be a huge fan of books set in the late 1800’s. The books have a sense of energy, excitement and vibrancy about them as well as a very good character based plot. I’m dying to know what will happen next as Maggie embarks upon the next stage of her remarkable American adventure. There are so many unanswered plots that I hope have a resolution soon just because I’m so eager to find out. But it’s not too long a wait as A New World for The Irish Daughter will be published at the end of July.
I have to confess that the way Maggie treated Brendan in the first few chapters and for quite a good chunk of the book really irritated me bordering on anger. Herself and Brendan were pretending to be married once they reached Chicago in order to be able to get accommodation more easily and for reasons connected back to their leaving the Big Apple. But Maggie just seemed to go against this at every opportunity and there was many a time I thought she would give the game away before they had established themselves at all in a new city. Could she not have just gone along with things no matter how much it apparently seemed to be going against her being? Brendan had a heart of gold and there wasn’t sinister motives in what he was trying to do but I felt Maggie bucked and kicked against what he was trying to achieve. A bit more positivity and support was needed from her side. On the other hand, I did in some small way see where she was coming from and did feel a tiny shred of sympathy for her, but Brendan was just such a treasure that I was more on his side despite Maggie being the main female protagonist. This didn’t last for all the book but these are the thoughts that came into my head as I was reading near enough up to the midway point.
Brendan has been a saviour for Maggie in more ways than one. He took herself and Danny under his wing and provided for them when they had nothing and were very near to the depths of despair and in doing so his life was altered in ways unimaginable. Yes, I think his intentions are very genuine but the fact he harbours feelings for Maggie means that he will always go that extra mile. Although Maggie tries to hide it I think deep, deep down she has feelings for Brendan, but she fights, suppresses and rallies against them partly because she is very stubborn and also because she is a fiercely independent woman. She has firm dreams and aspirations, and this is to be admired. She doesn’t see herself constrained by the rules of society placed upon women at the time. Yes, we can sense that she would enjoying having love and romance in her life but being married and tied to the house raising children is not for her. She wants to fulfil her dreams to be a milliner. I feel if she could have the balance between a home and work life without being frowned than she would certainly go for that.
I enjoyed the plot of the book overall although I did feel some aspects were repetitive so to speak that they had featured in book one but this time what made them different were a different setting and a few new characters. But look I got over that and it’s me being super picky because truly there was a lot to sink your teeth into once again as Maggie tries to establish a new life for herself and Danny in Chicago. I loved the historical elements throughout that were true. The job that Maggie gets in Fields department story and her meeting Mr. Selfridge a name we are all familiar with. All the thousands of workers toiling day and night on the site where the World Fair is to open. The character of Dr. Holmes I had previously known nothing about, but I had my suspicions throughout as instantly he came across as very creepy and weird. Also the growth of Chicago at the time as a new exciting and bustling city. We just take it for granted these days that those impressive American cites were always there and we give little thought to it. So I found it fascinating. I really appreciated the authors end notes regarding these aspects of the story as it gave me a deeper understanding.
Maggie is a person who spends her life waiting for something more to happen. At times, I felt she really ought to just live in the moment and appreciate the sacrifices that Danny had made for them. But a chasm opens up between the pair and Maggie found herself travelling down a path that to me just seemed that little bit too good to be true. Theo, the son of Mrs. Stein, comes back into her life and she grabs the opportunities that he presents with open arms but I wanted her to be more cautious. Everything seemed to be happening too quickly with regards to her career and I could see things come crashing down if she wasn’t careful. She was almost a bit gullible because she was so intent on making a success of things. So much so that she isolated herself from Danny and Brendan leading to loneliness. I wondered when push came to shove and things once again turned sour would the two men be there for her or would the tables turn and she be the one to help them?
I thoroughly enjoyed A New Home for the Irish Daughter and to be honest I’m surprised how much so given that I haven’t read and wouldn’t be a huge fan of books set in the late 1800’s. The books have a sense of energy, excitement and vibrancy about them as well as a very good character based plot. I’m dying to know what will happen next as Maggie embarks upon the next stage of her remarkable American adventure. There are so many unanswered plots that I hope have a resolution soon just because I’m so eager to find out. But it’s not too long a wait as A New World for The Irish Daughter will be published at the end of July.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Maggie O'Halloran is transplanted to Chicago in this sequel to The Irish Daughter of New York.☘
Her adventures in the Windy City include working at Marshall Fields and meeting the infamous serial killer Dr. Holmes The Devil in the White City: Murder, Magic, and Madness at the Fair That Changed America) as well as watching the preparations for the Chicago Worlds Fair.
Here's what I liked about this second Maggie O'Halloran book:
🌬We get quite an inside look at the Windy City in the late 19th century. As mentioned above, the Chicago World's Fair was a huge draw in that time. Things like the Ferris Wheel, Juicy Fruit gum, Hershey's Chocolate, and the zipper were introduced to the world at this exposition.
👒In the first book, Maggie aspires to design hats for the movers and shakers in society. She does get a chance to start a hat business in this second book. Will it be everything she hoped for? What will she discover about mixing with the hoi polloi?
🤔A new word that I learned in the first book is used again here: PALAVER. While it was just Brendan, Maggie, and Danny moving to Chicago from the cast of the first book; there are quite a few supporting characters that we meet again in this second book. Definitely recommend reading the first Maggie O'Halloran book before picking this one up.
🥉After finishing this one it does appear there will be a third book and I look forward to reading more about Brendan, Maggie, and Danny. Will they ever find Da O'Halloran? He seems to be just a few months ahead of them each time there is a sighting.
Happy Publication Day - May 22, 2026. Thank you to Bookouture and NetGalley for a DRC in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
Her adventures in the Windy City include working at Marshall Fields and meeting the infamous serial killer Dr. Holmes The Devil in the White City: Murder, Magic, and Madness at the Fair That Changed America) as well as watching the preparations for the Chicago Worlds Fair.
Here's what I liked about this second Maggie O'Halloran book:
🌬We get quite an inside look at the Windy City in the late 19th century. As mentioned above, the Chicago World's Fair was a huge draw in that time. Things like the Ferris Wheel, Juicy Fruit gum, Hershey's Chocolate, and the zipper were introduced to the world at this exposition.
👒In the first book, Maggie aspires to design hats for the movers and shakers in society. She does get a chance to start a hat business in this second book. Will it be everything she hoped for? What will she discover about mixing with the hoi polloi?
🤔A new word that I learned in the first book is used again here: PALAVER. While it was just Brendan, Maggie, and Danny moving to Chicago from the cast of the first book; there are quite a few supporting characters that we meet again in this second book. Definitely recommend reading the first Maggie O'Halloran book before picking this one up.
🥉After finishing this one it does appear there will be a third book and I look forward to reading more about Brendan, Maggie, and Danny. Will they ever find Da O'Halloran? He seems to be just a few months ahead of them each time there is a sighting.
Happy Publication Day - May 22, 2026. Thank you to Bookouture and NetGalley for a DRC in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
May 25, 2026
A New Home for the Irish Daughter by Kate Hewitt is the continuing story of Maggie O’Halloran, her brother Danny, and their friend, Brendan O’Donaghue. They had all left New York under a serious cloud and were now heading to Chicago, looking for Maggie and Danny’s father. Maggie and Brendan were pretending to be a married couple so as to avoid questions. They tried to be honest at several boarding houses, but no one believed them so they reverted to the married couple story and obtained a room immediately. Danny was offered a bed near the kitchen in exchange for chores. He was happy to accept. Danny got a construction job nearly immediately on a construction site. The Columbian Exhibition (the World’s Fair) was set to open in just a few months and had hired thousands of workers. Brendan was having more trouble but finally got a job working in the meat factory, pickling meat. Maggie walked into Marshall Fields and met Mr Selfridge, himself, who instantly gave her a job in the millinery department. Things were looking up. One day, she ran into Mrs. Stein, her employer from New York, who was full of news, including the fact that Maggie was no longer a suspected criminal. Things started to get complicated.
Maggie is strong and independent with ambitions for the future. Brendan was in love with her and she probably felt the same but wouldn’t allow it. She was not going to turn into her mother, being the servant to some man. Danny seemed as if he was on the right track finally. Enticing characters. The story is reminiscent of the immigrant experience, especially these people with such resilience. Things went well for a while and then they fell apart. An exciting story, full of angst, resentment, and so much more. A good read.
I was invited to read A New Home for the Irish Daughter by Bookoutre. All thoughts and opinions are mine. #Netgalley #Bookoutre #KateHewitt #ANewHomeForTheIrishDaughter
Maggie is strong and independent with ambitions for the future. Brendan was in love with her and she probably felt the same but wouldn’t allow it. She was not going to turn into her mother, being the servant to some man. Danny seemed as if he was on the right track finally. Enticing characters. The story is reminiscent of the immigrant experience, especially these people with such resilience. Things went well for a while and then they fell apart. An exciting story, full of angst, resentment, and so much more. A good read.
I was invited to read A New Home for the Irish Daughter by Bookoutre. All thoughts and opinions are mine. #Netgalley #Bookoutre #KateHewitt #ANewHomeForTheIrishDaughter
June 28, 2026
Wow, wow, WOW, what a book!! I thought the first one in the series was amazing but this one topped it. I couldn't turn the pages fast enough and I can't wait for the next one :)
Maggie, Brendan and Danny flee to Chicago, where, apparently, Maggie and Danny's father has gone. They have to start again after Danny's involvement in a gang in New York but in order to do so, Maggie and Brendan have to pretend to be married or they would not obtain accommodation. Needs must, and all of that. Unfortunately, it gets complicated very fast and Chicago ends up not being the fresh new start they were all hoping for.
I enjoyed reading about the Chicago World's Fair and all the preparations for it, as well as the brand-new innovations that came out of it. Things that we take for granted now but which were life-changing for many.
This is a beautifully written novel set in a not-so-great time for women. Makes me realise just how far we have come since those days. Life in the late 1800's for everyone other than the upper echelons of society, was hand-to-mouth, every day. When you are fighting so hard just for the basics and diseases run rampant through communities, it is a wonder that our ancestors made it through for long enough to continue the family tree. And I know that a lot of people didn't make it along the way. It is a sobering thought. It wasn't all that fabulous for the working-class man either, as Brendan demonstrates with his poor hands in his new job.
All in all, this book brought this time in history to life in a relatable and powerful way.
5 stars from me.
Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture.
Maggie, Brendan and Danny flee to Chicago, where, apparently, Maggie and Danny's father has gone. They have to start again after Danny's involvement in a gang in New York but in order to do so, Maggie and Brendan have to pretend to be married or they would not obtain accommodation. Needs must, and all of that. Unfortunately, it gets complicated very fast and Chicago ends up not being the fresh new start they were all hoping for.
I enjoyed reading about the Chicago World's Fair and all the preparations for it, as well as the brand-new innovations that came out of it. Things that we take for granted now but which were life-changing for many.
This is a beautifully written novel set in a not-so-great time for women. Makes me realise just how far we have come since those days. Life in the late 1800's for everyone other than the upper echelons of society, was hand-to-mouth, every day. When you are fighting so hard just for the basics and diseases run rampant through communities, it is a wonder that our ancestors made it through for long enough to continue the family tree. And I know that a lot of people didn't make it along the way. It is a sobering thought. It wasn't all that fabulous for the working-class man either, as Brendan demonstrates with his poor hands in his new job.
All in all, this book brought this time in history to life in a relatable and powerful way.
5 stars from me.
Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
It was 1892 when Maggie O'Halloran arrived in Chicago from New York City with her brother Danny, and friend Brendan O'Donoghue. They'd barely escaped but were prepared to start again, with Maggie pretending she was married to Brendan as the safest option they could think of. The jobs both Danny and Brendan acquired were harsh and hard; Maggie's at the millinery section of a huge department store saw her happy for awhile. But when a woman from New York arrived, and recognised Maggie, things began looking up.
Brendan changed jobs, much happier with the new one, and Danny did the same. Maggie suddenly had a benefactor who funded her new millinery business; making hats for women was a joy. But things began going wrong, gossip was rife, and Brendan & Danny were in trouble as well. What would they do?
A New Home for the Irish Daughter is the 2nd in the Maggie O'Halloran series by Kate Hewitt, the continuing story of the Irish siblings who had sailed to New York from Ireland to make new lives. With their father somewhere in the US, they have yet to find him. Recommended.
With thanks to NetGalley & Bookouture for my digital ARC to read and review.
Brendan changed jobs, much happier with the new one, and Danny did the same. Maggie suddenly had a benefactor who funded her new millinery business; making hats for women was a joy. But things began going wrong, gossip was rife, and Brendan & Danny were in trouble as well. What would they do?
A New Home for the Irish Daughter is the 2nd in the Maggie O'Halloran series by Kate Hewitt, the continuing story of the Irish siblings who had sailed to New York from Ireland to make new lives. With their father somewhere in the US, they have yet to find him. Recommended.
With thanks to NetGalley & Bookouture for my digital ARC to read and review.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thank you NetGalley and Bookouture for the eARC! Wow this was not going where I thought it would be but I was pleasantly surprised and really enjoyed the plot. I have loved Maggie and Brendan's relationship throughout book 1 and book 2; their relationship felt very healthy and mature. I enjoyed seeing them talk it out after arguments and other tense moments and resolve their issues as best they could. It felt very refreshing. There were really interesting twists that I appreciated even more so after reading the note at the end of the book from the author. Hewitt does a really great job of setting up plot points that will lead you ultimately to the outcome you imagined but it won't be in the way you imagined. I like to guess what might happen in books and write them down in my notes app while reading. Nothing that I wrote for books 1 and 2 happened in the way I thought they would which kept me hooked. At times it felt like some of the characters and plot points were repeats from book one. The familiar feeling plot points would give me a pit in my stomach and just make me feel so much for these characters that seemingly can't catch a break. There was character development which was nice to see. This was another great read by Kate Hewitt and I'm excited to see where Maggie's story goes in book 3!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
The second book in the Maggie O’Halloran series and I definitely recommend reading this series in order. After the events in book one Maggie, her brother Danny and their friend Brendan O’Donoghue run to Chicago, with Maggie and Brendan pretending to be married so they can get rooms together.
Briefly, it’s 1892, and in Chicago Brendon has found a job in an abattoir, Danny has a labouring job on the site of the World's Columbian Exposition, to mark the 400th anniversary of Columbus’s arrival in America and Maggie has found a position in Marshall Field & Company, a high class department store. The re-emergence of Mrs Stern, who had been championing Maggie’s talent in millinery in New York turns everything upside down for Maggie.
I’ve got to be honest this trio seem to have more than their share of bad luck and meet more than their fair share of bad people! Brendon is still carrying a torch for Maggie and she is still determined to remain single and earn her own living, but I wish she didn’t treat him so badly. I admire her determination but not at the expense of people who are kind to her. This is an easy read, I read it in an evening, and a lovely bit of escapism. A good entertaining book.
Briefly, it’s 1892, and in Chicago Brendon has found a job in an abattoir, Danny has a labouring job on the site of the World's Columbian Exposition, to mark the 400th anniversary of Columbus’s arrival in America and Maggie has found a position in Marshall Field & Company, a high class department store. The re-emergence of Mrs Stern, who had been championing Maggie’s talent in millinery in New York turns everything upside down for Maggie.
I’ve got to be honest this trio seem to have more than their share of bad luck and meet more than their fair share of bad people! Brendon is still carrying a torch for Maggie and she is still determined to remain single and earn her own living, but I wish she didn’t treat him so badly. I admire her determination but not at the expense of people who are kind to her. This is an easy read, I read it in an evening, and a lovely bit of escapism. A good entertaining book.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Maggie O’Halloran arrives in Chicago after narrowly escaping the clutches of New York City. Her brother Danny and she were threatened by a notorious gang, leaving them with no choice but to relocate. With her friend Brendan O’Donoghue, who she pretend to be married to, Maggie finally feels safe.
Maggie takes a job at a renowned department store and begins to settle into her new life. However, her past catches up with her, threatening to destroy everything she has worked for.
“A New Home for the Irish Daughter” is a captivating story by Kate Hewitt. I thoroughly enjoyed Maggie’s journey and was rooting for her as she sought the fresh start she deserved. Maggie was a hardworking and passionate hatmaker, but her heart was torn between her desire for safety and her commitment to protecting her brother and friend.
I am thoroughly enjoying this series. It is a wonderful addition to the Maggie O’Halloran series. While it can be read as a standalone, I highly recommend reading the entire series for a more comprehensive understanding of Maggie’s character and her journey. This fantastic read is a must-read for fans of the historical fiction genre.
Grab your copy today!! https://amazn.so/NewHomeIrishDaughter
Maggie takes a job at a renowned department store and begins to settle into her new life. However, her past catches up with her, threatening to destroy everything she has worked for.
“A New Home for the Irish Daughter” is a captivating story by Kate Hewitt. I thoroughly enjoyed Maggie’s journey and was rooting for her as she sought the fresh start she deserved. Maggie was a hardworking and passionate hatmaker, but her heart was torn between her desire for safety and her commitment to protecting her brother and friend.
I am thoroughly enjoying this series. It is a wonderful addition to the Maggie O’Halloran series. While it can be read as a standalone, I highly recommend reading the entire series for a more comprehensive understanding of Maggie’s character and her journey. This fantastic read is a must-read for fans of the historical fiction genre.
Grab your copy today!! https://amazn.so/NewHomeIrishDaughter
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I received a digital ARC via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts are entirely my own.
If you haven’t read the first book in the Maggie O’Halloran series, start there ~ this one picks up directly from where book one left off, and the continuity matters.
Following the events of the first book, Maggie, her brother Danny & their friend Brendan find themselves starting over in Chicago ~ with Maggie & Brendan keeping up the pretence of being married for practicality’s sake.
It’s 1892, and Kate Hewitt roots the story firmly in its era ~ the World’s Columbian Exposition provides a vivid historical backdrop, and Maggie’s position at the legendary Marshall Field & Company department store opens up a world of new possibilities & complications.
The writing is warm and absorbing, making it seamless to slip into Maggie’s story. The historical detail feels lived-in rather than researched, which is always the mark of a skilled historical fiction writer.
That said, this trio do seem to attract misfortune at every turn, and I found myself occasionally frustrated with how Maggie treats the people who care most about her, even while deeply admiring her fierce drive for independence.
An entertaining, character-driven read with a strong sense of time & place.
If you haven’t read the first book in the Maggie O’Halloran series, start there ~ this one picks up directly from where book one left off, and the continuity matters.
Following the events of the first book, Maggie, her brother Danny & their friend Brendan find themselves starting over in Chicago ~ with Maggie & Brendan keeping up the pretence of being married for practicality’s sake.
It’s 1892, and Kate Hewitt roots the story firmly in its era ~ the World’s Columbian Exposition provides a vivid historical backdrop, and Maggie’s position at the legendary Marshall Field & Company department store opens up a world of new possibilities & complications.
The writing is warm and absorbing, making it seamless to slip into Maggie’s story. The historical detail feels lived-in rather than researched, which is always the mark of a skilled historical fiction writer.
That said, this trio do seem to attract misfortune at every turn, and I found myself occasionally frustrated with how Maggie treats the people who care most about her, even while deeply admiring her fierce drive for independence.
An entertaining, character-driven read with a strong sense of time & place.
May 25, 2026
This is the second book in the Maggie O’Halloran series and I loved it just as much as the first book. It’s 1892 and Maggie along with her brother Danny and their friend Brendan O’Donoghue have moved from New York to Chicago. They were lucky to escape New York following threats from a notorious gang. From the opening chapter I was once again captivated by Maggie’s story and how she was determined to rebuild her life. I found all the characters really interesting and we also meet some new ones . The author described how life was in Chicago during that time so well and I loved the way real events were used as part of the story. I was very interested to read about Mr Selfridge and his job at Marshall Field, something I was never aware of . And having watched the tv drama show Selfrldges this made that part of the book all the more interesting. In spite of Maggie moving to Chicago , she and her family are still not out of danger and need to watch their backs. Herself and Danny are still searching for their father, will they finally find him in this second book ? Another great and captivating read in this series and the there will be a third book which is due to be published in July of this year and I for one can’t wait to read it.
May 26, 2026
This is the second book in the Maggie O'Halloran series. In the last book Maggie and her brother and Brendan end up fleeing New York because her brother was involved in a gang and they would have done him in if he stayed.
This continuation is so realistic, so heartbreaking. You can feel every emotion the characters do, every sigh of relief every heartbreaking moment of crushing disappointment.
Maggie and Brendan pretend to be married for proprieties sake but that seems to bring it's own laundry list of problems.
As much as Maggie struggles, she is also blessed with some freedom but that comes with problems as well. I did enjoy our main characters a lot. They really struggled, got down but they didn't stay down they were strong, they had to be. There really was a lot going on in Chicago where they moved to, these Irish immigrants. I enjoyed reading about the Chicago Exhibition and how long it took to prepare for it.
There were unexpected twists and turns I couldn't have seen coming and I enjoyed this book so much.
Looking forward to the next book in the series.
I was given a complimentary copy of this book.
All opinions expressed are my own.
This continuation is so realistic, so heartbreaking. You can feel every emotion the characters do, every sigh of relief every heartbreaking moment of crushing disappointment.
Maggie and Brendan pretend to be married for proprieties sake but that seems to bring it's own laundry list of problems.
As much as Maggie struggles, she is also blessed with some freedom but that comes with problems as well. I did enjoy our main characters a lot. They really struggled, got down but they didn't stay down they were strong, they had to be. There really was a lot going on in Chicago where they moved to, these Irish immigrants. I enjoyed reading about the Chicago Exhibition and how long it took to prepare for it.
There were unexpected twists and turns I couldn't have seen coming and I enjoyed this book so much.
Looking forward to the next book in the series.
I was given a complimentary copy of this book.
All opinions expressed are my own.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
A New Home for the Irish Daughter by Kate Hewitt picks up where The Irish Daughter of New York left off, following Maggie, Brendan, and Danny as they set out for a fresh start in Chicago. Kate Hewitt’s warm writing style immediately drew me in, and it was easy to see the care she put into researching the story. She brings the time and place to life beautifully, and the characters feel vivid and realistic throughout. Maggie did frustrate me at times, but that only made her feel more authentic. I could understand her fierce desire for independence, even when the people around her were clearly trying to help. I also loved the detailed descriptions of Marshall Fields & Company and the merchandise sold there, which added an extra layer of charm to the story. This is the second book in the Maggie O’Halloran series, and I definitely recommend reading the books in order for the fullest experience. Overall, A New Home for the Irish Daughter is an absorbing and heartfelt historical novel that left me excited for the next installment.
May 22, 2026
A NEW HOME FOR THE IRISH DAUGHTER is the second novel in the Maggie O’Halloran series by KATE HEWITT, but it can stand alone. Kate has fled New York with her younger brother Danny and her pretend husband, Brendan O’Donaghue, fearing arrest for her part in the fire that destroyed her employer, the wealthy Mrs Stein’s, mansion. Maggie is ambitious and is afraid of marriage, having seen her mother’s desperate struggles. She is looking for more from life as she uses her millinery skills to pander to the extravagant taste of the wealthy women of Chicago. The solid and hardworking Brendan, who left his own business to help Maggie and Danny, ends up in a dangerous situation in Chicago……..
It is a story about the choices people make, unconditional love, and true values.
The book is enjoyable and exciting, with interesting characters.
I was given a free copy of the book by NetGalley from Bookouture. The opinions in this review are completely my own.
It is a story about the choices people make, unconditional love, and true values.
The book is enjoyable and exciting, with interesting characters.
I was given a free copy of the book by NetGalley from Bookouture. The opinions in this review are completely my own.
June 4, 2026
This historical novel picks up where the 1st book of the series ends (therefore I’d recommend – if possible - to read The Irish Daughter of New York before this part).
Maggie, her brother Danny and pretend husband Brendan flee from New York City to Chicago, trying yet again to build a new life for them.
From a historical point of view it was really interesting to get a glimpse at Chicago back in 1892 and in preparation for the Chicago World Fair.
The characters remain very strong. Maggie, being determined and trying to be independent, has to be admired. I’d just wish she’d treat Brendan a bit better.
I thoroughly enjoyed the writing and how the story unfolds. I am already looking forward to see how the story continues and if they will ever manage to find the sibling’s father.
Would recommend this book to anyone interested in historical fiction!
Thank you to Bookouture, Kate Hewitt and NetGalley for this ARC!
Maggie, her brother Danny and pretend husband Brendan flee from New York City to Chicago, trying yet again to build a new life for them.
From a historical point of view it was really interesting to get a glimpse at Chicago back in 1892 and in preparation for the Chicago World Fair.
The characters remain very strong. Maggie, being determined and trying to be independent, has to be admired. I’d just wish she’d treat Brendan a bit better.
I thoroughly enjoyed the writing and how the story unfolds. I am already looking forward to see how the story continues and if they will ever manage to find the sibling’s father.
Would recommend this book to anyone interested in historical fiction!
Thank you to Bookouture, Kate Hewitt and NetGalley for this ARC!
May 3, 2026
Thank you NetGalley for the ARC! A New Home Foe The Irish Daughter by Kate Hewitt is a historical fiction novel about Maggie, a young Irish girl who came to America with her brother to reunite with her father. In this sequel, Maggie finds herself in Chicago living her dreams or what she thought were her dreams. But a series of mistakes made on behalf of her naivety ruin her. Although, she is now no longer in favour in society, she hasn’t given up hope. When she runs into Brandon at the Works Fair, she comes to understand that both he and her brother Danny haven’t had it easy either. Together they know they will be better than they are apart and they realize that they have nothing left in Chicago so look to brighter days further east. I rather enjoyed this story and hope that Hewitt continues to share Maggie’s journey with a third novel.
May 25, 2026
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
Maggie O’Halloran is back and ready to start a new life in Chicago. Danny, her brother, and Brendan, her pretend husband, are also with her. It’s 1892, and Maggie is working at the legendary Marshall Fields. She is determined to leave her troubled past behind and build a new life filled with hope, courage, and dreams.
Kate Hewitt has a way of making you feel like you are right there in the middle of the story. Not only did I enjoy Maggie’s tale, but I also enjoyed the historical references in this well researched novel. Many thanks to the author, Bookouture and NetGalley for a complimentary copy of the book. The opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.
#ANEWHOMEFORTHEIRISHDAUGHTER #KateHewittBookTour #NetGalley #Bookouture #NewBook #ILoveBooks #BookLove #Bookstagram #BooksSetInChicago
Maggie O’Halloran is back and ready to start a new life in Chicago. Danny, her brother, and Brendan, her pretend husband, are also with her. It’s 1892, and Maggie is working at the legendary Marshall Fields. She is determined to leave her troubled past behind and build a new life filled with hope, courage, and dreams.
Kate Hewitt has a way of making you feel like you are right there in the middle of the story. Not only did I enjoy Maggie’s tale, but I also enjoyed the historical references in this well researched novel. Many thanks to the author, Bookouture and NetGalley for a complimentary copy of the book. The opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.
#ANEWHOMEFORTHEIRISHDAUGHTER #KateHewittBookTour #NetGalley #Bookouture #NewBook #ILoveBooks #BookLove #Bookstagram #BooksSetInChicago
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
The second book in the series about young Maggie O’Halloran, an Irish immigrant trying to make a new life for herself in America of the 1800’s.
This novel was focused upon Maggie’s life in Chicago, first as worker in the Marshall Field’s department store, then her attempts at becoming a milliner in her own right. It ended as a cliffhanger, because every indication pointed to a third installment (hopefully soon!)
My favorite parts of this book? The lavish descriptions of the features and items for sale in the department store, where workers wore crisp uniforms with white gloves!
*I received a digital copy from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are strictly my own.*
This novel was focused upon Maggie’s life in Chicago, first as worker in the Marshall Field’s department store, then her attempts at becoming a milliner in her own right. It ended as a cliffhanger, because every indication pointed to a third installment (hopefully soon!)
My favorite parts of this book? The lavish descriptions of the features and items for sale in the department store, where workers wore crisp uniforms with white gloves!
*I received a digital copy from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are strictly my own.*
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
A New Home for the Irish Daughter (Maggie O'Halloran Book 2) has Maggie now in Chicago thanks to her friend, Brendan O’Donoghue. The first book had Maggie and her brother in New York City alone and in danger. While Maggie seeks independence, Brendan finds himself in need of help. Through Maggie the reader experiences the difficult situations of life in America for immigrants as well as the determination that they had to survive, then thrive in this new land. It seems just as if life will continue to be a battle daily for these three. There is heartache in the story but also loyalty, family and the fortitude of character. By Kate Hewitt A New Home for the Irish Daughter is a compelling historical fiction novel.
May 23, 2026
I really enjoy this series. Maggie, Brendan and Danny are a trio that you can’t help but connect with. Brendan is so dedicated to the two of them, even though he owes them nothing. Uprooting his whole life for them to take them to Chicago.
I find myself easily frustrated by Maggie. I have to continually remind myself that she is only 19 years old. There are so many times when I want to shake some sense into her. She’s so headstrong and determined to support herself without a husband. I love that ambition, but it’s 1892! And Brendan isn’t like so many men of the time. She’s so naive and I feel bad watching her come to terms with the way the real world is.
Thank you NetGalley and Bookouture for my copy of this book.
I find myself easily frustrated by Maggie. I have to continually remind myself that she is only 19 years old. There are so many times when I want to shake some sense into her. She’s so headstrong and determined to support herself without a husband. I love that ambition, but it’s 1892! And Brendan isn’t like so many men of the time. She’s so naive and I feel bad watching her come to terms with the way the real world is.
Thank you NetGalley and Bookouture for my copy of this book.
June 7, 2026
I saw this on netgalley (thanks!) but I have to read a series in order so I read #1 first l - you should too!
The author has a real skill of describing the city so you feel you are there without it getting bogged down like so many books. The last book I read (not this author!) I spent so much time googling if things were historically accurate (they weren't) but in this I didn't even feel the need!
I found Maggie a bit annoying at times in this one, but needed to remind myself she's only 19! Bordering on the miscommunication trope which is my least favourite. Lots of action and quite a bit of bad luck again!
I don't think this is quite as good as the first one, but it's still a great read. Sped through it!
Bring on the next one!!
The author has a real skill of describing the city so you feel you are there without it getting bogged down like so many books. The last book I read (not this author!) I spent so much time googling if things were historically accurate (they weren't) but in this I didn't even feel the need!
I found Maggie a bit annoying at times in this one, but needed to remind myself she's only 19! Bordering on the miscommunication trope which is my least favourite. Lots of action and quite a bit of bad luck again!
I don't think this is quite as good as the first one, but it's still a great read. Sped through it!
Bring on the next one!!
July 18, 2026
Interesting light historical fiction of Irish immigrants to America in the 19 century. Maggie is hardly believable as the main character in that she articulates like an educated middle class young lady rather than a poor Irish immigrant. In addition, of course she’s very beautiful and sometimes has very good or very bad luck. The author did, in fact capture my imagination with the story. However, it moves slowly at times and the language that the author utilizes are contemporary words such as reach out amazing, etc. that are in our current vernacular, not those of the 19th century. Therefore, a more sophisticated audience might become impatient with these deficits. nonetheless, it is fairly entertaining fiction.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
We are back with Maggie, Brendan and Danny where we left them at the end of book one. As they arrive in Chicago to start afresh, their lives are built on necessary lies. Maggie is again battling with her feelings for Brendan and against ever being tied to a man. As bold and ambitious as ever she finds herself where she thinks she wants to be only to have it snatched away again. But if there was ever a person to dust themselves off and start again, it's her, and as we leave them this time, they are off again to seek maybe not fame and fortune but definitely happiness.
Another brilliant unuptdowable addition to this lovely series.
Another brilliant unuptdowable addition to this lovely series.
June 5, 2026
Unluck of the Irish
Driven to leave New York by her brother Danny’s dangerous links to a crime gang, Maggie dreams of anew life and a career as a milliner in Chicago. Their time there coincides with the 1893 World Fair.
Maggie feels that committing herself to Brendan will condemn or restrict her to a life of mediocrity as a wife and mother, so she keeps him at a distance. But, ultimately, she realises his value as a person and protector in an unkind and prejudiced world.
Another engaging part in the saga of the O’Halloran siblings and the faithful Brendan, in which they realise the true value of friendship and mutual support.
Driven to leave New York by her brother Danny’s dangerous links to a crime gang, Maggie dreams of anew life and a career as a milliner in Chicago. Their time there coincides with the 1893 World Fair.
Maggie feels that committing herself to Brendan will condemn or restrict her to a life of mediocrity as a wife and mother, so she keeps him at a distance. But, ultimately, she realises his value as a person and protector in an unkind and prejudiced world.
Another engaging part in the saga of the O’Halloran siblings and the faithful Brendan, in which they realise the true value of friendship and mutual support.
July 6, 2026
Maggie, Brendan and Danhy try to create a semblance of a home in Chicago after fleeing NewYork undre a cloud. Things are not a smooth sailing however. Maggie is still very ambitious, and a bit misguided as she makes decisions that impact her reputation severely. Between the angst between her and Brendan and her stubbornness to rise above it all (and not succeeding), emotions run high. Danny does show more maturity in this book and you see the 3 set off to California for their next phase of life.
This book was not as good as book 1, but I still do want to read book 3 to see how it all ends.
#netgalley #ANewHomefortheIrishDaughter
This book was not as good as book 1, but I still do want to read book 3 to see how it all ends.
#netgalley #ANewHomefortheIrishDaughter
May 24, 2026
After fleeing New York, Maggie, Danny and Brendan are trying to make Chicago their home. Maggie and Brendan are pretending to be married but that has their own problems. Meeting new people brings her a little of the independence she craves but what when people from her past shows up?
I enjoyed reading this story but Maggie's independence drove me crazy at some time and I felt sorry for Brendan. Looking forward to continue their journey.
Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for the opportunity to read and review this story.
I enjoyed reading this story but Maggie's independence drove me crazy at some time and I felt sorry for Brendan. Looking forward to continue their journey.
Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for the opportunity to read and review this story.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
And the story continues, with Maggie, Brendan and her brother Danny when they arrive in Chicago. Now to build a life but at the beginning it has to on a lie, so they can get a place to live and get jobs. This story is about chances and options and a meeting that could lead to a change. Not all is as simple as it seems.
Loved this follow up and look forward to book 3 ?
My thanks as always to NetGalley and Bookouture for the early read.
Loved this follow up and look forward to book 3 ?
My thanks as always to NetGalley and Bookouture for the early read.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
I received a free copy of, A New Home for the Irish Daughter, by Kate Hewitt, from the publisher and Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. This is book two in the Maggie O'Halloran series. Maggie has moved to Chicago for an new start after a rough time in New York. I miss Marshall Field's so much, Macy's is just not the same. Its interesting reading about Chicago in the 1800, and how its different in 2026. This was a real good read.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
My thoughts:
Maggie, along with Brendan and Danny, try to build a new life in Chicago. Each one is looking for a fresh start. They try to stay hopeful all will go well.
With their lives surrounded by so many lies, can they overcome all that is thrown at them?
I do recommend reading the first book in the series. There is important back story to each character that is important to know.
Overall I found this to be a hopeful story about following your heart.
Maggie, along with Brendan and Danny, try to build a new life in Chicago. Each one is looking for a fresh start. They try to stay hopeful all will go well.
With their lives surrounded by so many lies, can they overcome all that is thrown at them?
I do recommend reading the first book in the series. There is important back story to each character that is important to know.
Overall I found this to be a hopeful story about following your heart.
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