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Dancing to an Irish Reel
Twenty five year old Hailey Crossan takes a trip to Ireland during her sabbatical from the Los Angeles record business. While on the trip, she is unexpectedly offered a job in the Irish music business that is too good to turn down, so she decides to stay.
Although Hailey works in Galway City, she lives in the rural area of Connemara, an area steeped in history and famous for its Irish traditional music. When Hailey meets famous Irish traditional musician, Liam Hennessey, a confusing relationship begins, which Hailey thinks may be the result of their differing cultures,for Liam is married to the music, and so unbalanced at the prospect of love, that he won't come closer nor completely go away. And so begins the push and pull of an attraction that Hailey struggles to decipher. Thankfully, a handful of local friends come to her aid, and Hailey comes to love a land and its people-- both with more charm than she ever imagined.
Although Hailey works in Galway City, she lives in the rural area of Connemara, an area steeped in history and famous for its Irish traditional music. When Hailey meets famous Irish traditional musician, Liam Hennessey, a confusing relationship begins, which Hailey thinks may be the result of their differing cultures,for Liam is married to the music, and so unbalanced at the prospect of love, that he won't come closer nor completely go away. And so begins the push and pull of an attraction that Hailey struggles to decipher. Thankfully, a handful of local friends come to her aid, and Hailey comes to love a land and its people-- both with more charm than she ever imagined.
222 pages, Paperback
First published March 4, 2015
7 people are currently reading
1864 people want to read
About the author
Claire Fullerton
5 books419 followersClaire Fullerton is the multiple, award-winning author of Little Tea, Mourning Dove, Dancing to an Irish Reel, and A Portal in Time. Her books have been Pulpwood Queens book club selections, and her 18 book awards include the IPPY Silver medal, and the Literary Classics Book of the Year. Claire contributed to the book, A Southern Season with her novella, Through an Autumn Window. Her work has appeared in numerous magazines and multiple anthologies. She hails from Memphis, and lives in Malibu, CA. with her husband and 3 German shepherds. She enjoys reviewing books for the New York Journal of Books.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 40 reviews
October 15, 2015
I received a copy of the book for an honest review. Here it comes.
I loved how Claire Fullerton parallels the romance of Hailey, the L.A. music exec who has escaped to Ireland and Liam Hennessey, the young traditional Irish musician and Claire's romance with Ireland itself.
As she learns and grows to understand Ireland so does she begin to understand Liam.
The imagery of the setting in Ireland is perfect. The characters are real, and you can tell the author knows these people and how they really are.
The only thing I even remotely had any kind of problems with is how the Irishman Liam handles his romance with Hailey differently than this American male would. But then Fullerton is being real and true to the country and the character and the culture. For me, I just wanted to shake the boy at times.
I loved how Claire Fullerton parallels the romance of Hailey, the L.A. music exec who has escaped to Ireland and Liam Hennessey, the young traditional Irish musician and Claire's romance with Ireland itself.
As she learns and grows to understand Ireland so does she begin to understand Liam.
The imagery of the setting in Ireland is perfect. The characters are real, and you can tell the author knows these people and how they really are.
The only thing I even remotely had any kind of problems with is how the Irishman Liam handles his romance with Hailey differently than this American male would. But then Fullerton is being real and true to the country and the character and the culture. For me, I just wanted to shake the boy at times.
March 4, 2015
My favorite kind of book is one where I feel like the narrator is speaking only to me, and “Dancing to an Irish Reel” is just that! Reading this book had me feeling like I was sitting talking to a friend; its tone is so immediately intimate as the narrator, Hailey Crossan, tells her story that I didn’t feel the need to interrupt by asking questions about this American’s spell binding experience in rural Ireland!
A short, crisp prologue tells us with plausibility how the narrator came to leave Los Angeles and make her home on Ireland’s west coast. From the first engaging chapter, we are given a vivid sense of place as we are introduced to both Galway City, where Hailey works at the Galway Music Center, and the countryside of Connemara, where she makes her home. Both settings are painted cleverly in a manner that “shows” and never “tells” because the book takes off with action!
Twenty five year old Hailey Crossan is a savvy, insightful, fish out of water who has the kind of self-confidence to move to a new country without knowing a soul. She quickly surrounds herself with a group of Irish friends who are instrumental to the building story, for when she meets an intriguing musician named Liam Hennessey, who is clearly interested in her but has a funny way of showing it, they are by her side with their running commentary, which is often times funny and always revealing of how the Irish conduct themselves in a nuanced culture that Hailey is trying to understand.
At the heart of “Dancing to an Irish Reel” is the potential for new love, and the reader is lured along its uncertain development by being privy to exactly what Hailey is thinking as Liam Hennessey sends out mixed signals in his awkward courtship. I found myself laughing out loud at the dynamic’s accuracy in this realistic portrayal of an attraction that keeps the narrator guessing and has no guarantee.
But “Dancing to an Irish Reel” is also a lyrically written story. Its language is fluid and beautifully descriptive with laser sharp intelligence and pacing without any gaps. It reads like a celebration of hope, youth, friendship, and discovery as the narrator confidentially shares her longing to connect and her awestruck appreciation for all that is Irish. From the portrayal of the landscape to the character of Ireland's people, it is an outsider’s travelogue experienced through the heart and a rollicking good time all at once!
A short, crisp prologue tells us with plausibility how the narrator came to leave Los Angeles and make her home on Ireland’s west coast. From the first engaging chapter, we are given a vivid sense of place as we are introduced to both Galway City, where Hailey works at the Galway Music Center, and the countryside of Connemara, where she makes her home. Both settings are painted cleverly in a manner that “shows” and never “tells” because the book takes off with action!
Twenty five year old Hailey Crossan is a savvy, insightful, fish out of water who has the kind of self-confidence to move to a new country without knowing a soul. She quickly surrounds herself with a group of Irish friends who are instrumental to the building story, for when she meets an intriguing musician named Liam Hennessey, who is clearly interested in her but has a funny way of showing it, they are by her side with their running commentary, which is often times funny and always revealing of how the Irish conduct themselves in a nuanced culture that Hailey is trying to understand.
At the heart of “Dancing to an Irish Reel” is the potential for new love, and the reader is lured along its uncertain development by being privy to exactly what Hailey is thinking as Liam Hennessey sends out mixed signals in his awkward courtship. I found myself laughing out loud at the dynamic’s accuracy in this realistic portrayal of an attraction that keeps the narrator guessing and has no guarantee.
But “Dancing to an Irish Reel” is also a lyrically written story. Its language is fluid and beautifully descriptive with laser sharp intelligence and pacing without any gaps. It reads like a celebration of hope, youth, friendship, and discovery as the narrator confidentially shares her longing to connect and her awestruck appreciation for all that is Irish. From the portrayal of the landscape to the character of Ireland's people, it is an outsider’s travelogue experienced through the heart and a rollicking good time all at once!
February 5, 2016
Love and Ireland! Ah Ireland! Just thinking of Ireland makes me wistful. Dancing to an Irish Reel by Claire Fullerton is a story of a young woman, Hailey, who takes a trip to Ireland and ends up staying, albiet illegally as her visa expired, and working in an Irish music business helping to bring exposure to local talents. While there she meets a young talented traditional musician, Liam. Liam is a very quiet, reserved and broody young man and Hailey develops an attraction to him.
The author weaves a wonderful story of Ireland, it's people and customs along with the two main characters, Hailey and Liam. With descriptive narratives, you can almost imagine that you are there and smell the peat bog and feel the mist on your skin! I really enjoyed this story and hope to read more by this author! Want a taste of Ireland? Then this read is a must!
The author weaves a wonderful story of Ireland, it's people and customs along with the two main characters, Hailey and Liam. With descriptive narratives, you can almost imagine that you are there and smell the peat bog and feel the mist on your skin! I really enjoyed this story and hope to read more by this author! Want a taste of Ireland? Then this read is a must!
March 8, 2021
I think I created a story in my head based on the title of this book which naturally didn’t match the author’s story. This was first person narrative from the point of view of the book’s heroine. It’s girl meets boy. Girl likes boy. Does boy like girl? Will he ask her out? When will she see him again? Oh crap, did she just say something that’s going to ruin the whole thing? This was like reliving my 20’s—very angsty. Do I want to relive my 20’s? Umm, no, probably not.
April 30, 2016
4.5*
The story revolves around Hailey, an American with celtic roots, and is told from her perspective. She came to Ireland on holiday and stayed on, working as part of a team of four, for the Galway Music Centre, looking for, and helping, aspiring musicians. Hailey has settled into the community and is getting used to the laid back approach, differences in lifestyle and the small town feel where everyone knows everyone else’s business. She’s made good friends, most notably Shannon who also works at the music centre, and Mick and Gabrielle, her neighbours who ‘lived deep in the bog’ behind her cottage.
When Hailey meets the darkly handsome Liam Hennessy, the contrast is even more apparent. Liam is a musician, not one for straight talking or letting his feelings be known when it comes to love or commitment. Hailey is self-confident and natural in her relationships and comfortable with herself. They are complete opposites and Hailey’s frustration with Liam’s awkward internal conflict and the misunderstandings it causes, is delivered extremely well. Liam is unable to take the relationship further or completely withdraw from it. Hailey is very attracted to him but struggles to interpret or understand Liam’s behaviour.
Written from Hailey’s point of view, the narrative makes following her life in Ireland intimate and interesting. I like the fact the romance is convoluted, it kept me guessing, and it’s Hailey who has the strength of character against Liam’s capriciousness and confusion. Each of the very well defined and unique characters have a distinct and individual voice and personality, they are very realistic. I love the mysticism and folklore threaded throughout and the way music is so necessary and important in Irish culture.
The story is well crafted, beautifully phrased and woven together with rich descriptions of the Irish landscape, particularly Connemara and Galway City, which invoke strong images and atmosphere of the country and it’s people. Claire Fullerton’s authentic observations and detailing give a real sense of this beautiful place and make the book a delight to read.
The story revolves around Hailey, an American with celtic roots, and is told from her perspective. She came to Ireland on holiday and stayed on, working as part of a team of four, for the Galway Music Centre, looking for, and helping, aspiring musicians. Hailey has settled into the community and is getting used to the laid back approach, differences in lifestyle and the small town feel where everyone knows everyone else’s business. She’s made good friends, most notably Shannon who also works at the music centre, and Mick and Gabrielle, her neighbours who ‘lived deep in the bog’ behind her cottage.
When Hailey meets the darkly handsome Liam Hennessy, the contrast is even more apparent. Liam is a musician, not one for straight talking or letting his feelings be known when it comes to love or commitment. Hailey is self-confident and natural in her relationships and comfortable with herself. They are complete opposites and Hailey’s frustration with Liam’s awkward internal conflict and the misunderstandings it causes, is delivered extremely well. Liam is unable to take the relationship further or completely withdraw from it. Hailey is very attracted to him but struggles to interpret or understand Liam’s behaviour.
Written from Hailey’s point of view, the narrative makes following her life in Ireland intimate and interesting. I like the fact the romance is convoluted, it kept me guessing, and it’s Hailey who has the strength of character against Liam’s capriciousness and confusion. Each of the very well defined and unique characters have a distinct and individual voice and personality, they are very realistic. I love the mysticism and folklore threaded throughout and the way music is so necessary and important in Irish culture.
The story is well crafted, beautifully phrased and woven together with rich descriptions of the Irish landscape, particularly Connemara and Galway City, which invoke strong images and atmosphere of the country and it’s people. Claire Fullerton’s authentic observations and detailing give a real sense of this beautiful place and make the book a delight to read.
December 13, 2015
Dancing To An Irish Reel is narrated by the main character, Hailey, who as an American in Ireland quickly finds herself a little niche in the music world where she struggles to help organize the somewhat chaotic organization she works for.
The struggle she finds at work is mirrored in her private life when she meets Liam. Liam is the type of man who could be described as unattainable and he appears to make himself deliberately so.
Their relationship can be described as one that never quite takes off. You feel for Hailey as she struggles to comprehend the hot and cold treatment she receives from this man although you also long for her to realize that his attitude towards her is not a cultural thing, the behavior is specific to the man in question and the man in question is simply not mature enough for a real relationship.
The strengths in this novel lay in the convincing writing. You feel like you are reading part of Hailey's autobiography - the book does not read as fiction.
Dancing To An Irish Reel is an enjoyable story and Claire Fulleteron has a very distinctive style of writing that compels the reader to keep turning the page.
The struggle she finds at work is mirrored in her private life when she meets Liam. Liam is the type of man who could be described as unattainable and he appears to make himself deliberately so.
Their relationship can be described as one that never quite takes off. You feel for Hailey as she struggles to comprehend the hot and cold treatment she receives from this man although you also long for her to realize that his attitude towards her is not a cultural thing, the behavior is specific to the man in question and the man in question is simply not mature enough for a real relationship.
The strengths in this novel lay in the convincing writing. You feel like you are reading part of Hailey's autobiography - the book does not read as fiction.
Dancing To An Irish Reel is an enjoyable story and Claire Fulleteron has a very distinctive style of writing that compels the reader to keep turning the page.
July 20, 2015
Dancing to an Irish Reel I love the Irish, and I also love Maeve Binchy, who until now was the only author that really expressed the beauty of Ireland. That has changed and Claire is now my favourite! Ireland is so well described I felt I was actually there.
Dancing to an Irish Reel is written in the first person, and the writing is so intimate you can imagine yourself actually chatting to Hailey. Hailey being the main character. I loved how I was able to connect with Hailey and her feelings because of how well she is developed throughout.
There isn’t really much more I can say other than – read this book! Enjoy.
NB I received this book free for an honest review
Dancing to an Irish Reel is written in the first person, and the writing is so intimate you can imagine yourself actually chatting to Hailey. Hailey being the main character. I loved how I was able to connect with Hailey and her feelings because of how well she is developed throughout.
There isn’t really much more I can say other than – read this book! Enjoy.
NB I received this book free for an honest review
March 26, 2018
Beautiful
This book has been on my TBR for a long time and I was happy to finally be able to read it. And all I can say is that I wish I had read it sooner. The book is almost lyrical in its language as the author discusses everything from fate to music to travel in Ireland. All of this is wrapped in a tentative romance between an American woman and an Irish man, and I don't know when I last read a book that so perfectly captures the uncertainty of new romance. I highly recommend the book.
This book has been on my TBR for a long time and I was happy to finally be able to read it. And all I can say is that I wish I had read it sooner. The book is almost lyrical in its language as the author discusses everything from fate to music to travel in Ireland. All of this is wrapped in a tentative romance between an American woman and an Irish man, and I don't know when I last read a book that so perfectly captures the uncertainty of new romance. I highly recommend the book.
January 25, 2022
This is a love story. Not just between a man and a woman. It is also the slow falling in love with a culture rich in history, language and music, which can be confusing to the uninitiated who arrive expecting only to be there for a short visit.
The Irish have a way of embracing and drawing you into their way of life, and the author clearly absorbed all this richness during her time in the country in her twenties.
Traditional music is at the heart of communities throughout Ireland and Galway is the perfect setting. Nothing quite like dark smoky bars late on in the evening, when the musicians pick up their instruments and the magic begins.
The characters are beautifullly embellished with little details that immediately bring them into focus. Handsome enigmatic musicians, dapper elderly gentlemen imparting wisdom, free spirited craftsmen who have poetic souls, family dynasties where music runs in the blood.
Add in a young American conscious of being an outsider, trying to find her way through the complexity of adapting to the ebb and flow of this cultural colour, and you have a delightful reading experience.
The pace of the story is not rushed, for you would lose much of the detail and richness of the descriptions in the book. Life in Ireland is meant to be savoured. That can be an interesting and sometimes disconcerting concept for those who arrive for a quick holiday.
Expect to make some assumptions of how the relationship between Hailey and Liam will evolve through the story, but according to the cards all will be well, someday.
The Irish have a way of embracing and drawing you into their way of life, and the author clearly absorbed all this richness during her time in the country in her twenties.
Traditional music is at the heart of communities throughout Ireland and Galway is the perfect setting. Nothing quite like dark smoky bars late on in the evening, when the musicians pick up their instruments and the magic begins.
The characters are beautifullly embellished with little details that immediately bring them into focus. Handsome enigmatic musicians, dapper elderly gentlemen imparting wisdom, free spirited craftsmen who have poetic souls, family dynasties where music runs in the blood.
Add in a young American conscious of being an outsider, trying to find her way through the complexity of adapting to the ebb and flow of this cultural colour, and you have a delightful reading experience.
The pace of the story is not rushed, for you would lose much of the detail and richness of the descriptions in the book. Life in Ireland is meant to be savoured. That can be an interesting and sometimes disconcerting concept for those who arrive for a quick holiday.
Expect to make some assumptions of how the relationship between Hailey and Liam will evolve through the story, but according to the cards all will be well, someday.
February 12, 2016
Dancing to an Irish Reel is written in the first person of Hailey Crossan, the main character. Hailey arrives in Connemara, Ireland on vacation, but when offered the job of a lifetime at a music company, she extends her vacation. Through Hailey, we learn about the people of Connemara, their language, their country, and their music.
Hailey is a strong person who tends to tell it as she sees it. She is not afraid to explore on her own, or travel by herself. When she meets Liam Hennesey, an accordion player, she immediately feels an attraction. Liam has a slow way of pursuing Hailey, but he is definitely interested. However, he seems uncertain of their relationship. There is a lot of hesitancy and on again, off again in their relationship, and even at the end, we aren’t sure where the relationship will go.
The author is a master at rich description allowing us to immediately feel at home in Connemara. Her vivid descriptions are what drew me in from the first. The plot evolves with slowly, leaving us to savor our visit with the land and people of Ireland.
This book was given to me by the author in exchange for an honest review.
Hailey is a strong person who tends to tell it as she sees it. She is not afraid to explore on her own, or travel by herself. When she meets Liam Hennesey, an accordion player, she immediately feels an attraction. Liam has a slow way of pursuing Hailey, but he is definitely interested. However, he seems uncertain of their relationship. There is a lot of hesitancy and on again, off again in their relationship, and even at the end, we aren’t sure where the relationship will go.
The author is a master at rich description allowing us to immediately feel at home in Connemara. Her vivid descriptions are what drew me in from the first. The plot evolves with slowly, leaving us to savor our visit with the land and people of Ireland.
This book was given to me by the author in exchange for an honest review.
March 3, 2015
This delightful novel reads more like a memoir than a work of fiction. In truth, it is a love song to the landscape, people, culture, and language of western Ireland. The author has perfectly captured the complex, and sometimes confusing, subtlety of the Irish people in the cadences and patterns of their language.
The characters are well-drawn, quirky, and unique. The story follows Hailey, a young American, as she navigates a maybe on/maybe off relationship with an Irish musician who struggles with the meaning and implication of falling in love. The author depicts the uncertainties and push/pull of their budding attraction with wisdom and sensitivity.
The carefully crafted descriptions of the settings, both natural and man-made, are so vivid you feel as if you’re sitting in the village pubs listening to traditional Irish music along with the characters. If you’ve ever been to Ireland, reading Dancing to an Irish Reel will take you back in a heartbeat; if you haven’t yet had that pleasure, this book serves as a tantalizing appetizer.
The characters are well-drawn, quirky, and unique. The story follows Hailey, a young American, as she navigates a maybe on/maybe off relationship with an Irish musician who struggles with the meaning and implication of falling in love. The author depicts the uncertainties and push/pull of their budding attraction with wisdom and sensitivity.
The carefully crafted descriptions of the settings, both natural and man-made, are so vivid you feel as if you’re sitting in the village pubs listening to traditional Irish music along with the characters. If you’ve ever been to Ireland, reading Dancing to an Irish Reel will take you back in a heartbeat; if you haven’t yet had that pleasure, this book serves as a tantalizing appetizer.
August 3, 2015
Dancing to An Irish Reel is a book about discovery. Hailey visits Ireland and stays. She immerses herself into the country and the people. She falls in love with the culture and the music of Ireland. She also falls for a local musician, Liam.
Their relationship is complicated. Liam fully immerses himself in his music. The music lives through him. He is more of a loner. He doesn't give of himself and his emotions to others. Hailey is a puzzle to him to figure out. He doesn't know how to handle the building emotions between them.
The story is written in the first person. It is Hailey reminiscing and telling her story. The story has a melancholy feel to it. I'm not sure if it felt that way to me because of the rain, poetry, and music.
I loved reading the culture of Ireland. The people are steeped in their heritage. It is as if the land has a mind and will of it's own. It completely captures my imagination. It is a place where I would love to visit someday and experience for myself.
Their relationship is complicated. Liam fully immerses himself in his music. The music lives through him. He is more of a loner. He doesn't give of himself and his emotions to others. Hailey is a puzzle to him to figure out. He doesn't know how to handle the building emotions between them.
The story is written in the first person. It is Hailey reminiscing and telling her story. The story has a melancholy feel to it. I'm not sure if it felt that way to me because of the rain, poetry, and music.
I loved reading the culture of Ireland. The people are steeped in their heritage. It is as if the land has a mind and will of it's own. It completely captures my imagination. It is a place where I would love to visit someday and experience for myself.
August 31, 2016
Better than Colm Tóibín
Claire Fullerton has Ireland in her heart and on her mind and in her bones. And Dancing to an Irish Reel, her heartcatching novel about that country, captures so much about the many-spendoured and mystical land that it is. I've lived in Ireland for most of my life and in the three days I took to read this book I absorbed things about my country that left me in awe of Fullerton. On one level this is a gripping and unpredictable love story but on several other levels it reaches deep into the music, moods, landscapes and psyche of a country steeped in a rich and tragic culture.
Not long ago I read Colm Tóibín's novel Brooklyn for a second time and although I admired that writer's way with words and his strange account of an unlikely love triangle I have come to the conclusion that Tóibín's style and content lack the finesse and breadth of Claire Fullerton's. She is that good.
Claire Fullerton has Ireland in her heart and on her mind and in her bones. And Dancing to an Irish Reel, her heartcatching novel about that country, captures so much about the many-spendoured and mystical land that it is. I've lived in Ireland for most of my life and in the three days I took to read this book I absorbed things about my country that left me in awe of Fullerton. On one level this is a gripping and unpredictable love story but on several other levels it reaches deep into the music, moods, landscapes and psyche of a country steeped in a rich and tragic culture.
Not long ago I read Colm Tóibín's novel Brooklyn for a second time and although I admired that writer's way with words and his strange account of an unlikely love triangle I have come to the conclusion that Tóibín's style and content lack the finesse and breadth of Claire Fullerton's. She is that good.
May 8, 2015
Charming and wise...
What drew me into Claire Fullerton’s book was the fresh and reflective narrative sung to us by her protagonist, Hailey, an American young woman quite suddenly immersed in an Irish culture so rich in rural tradition and language nuance that it almost seems as if she has been dropped into a previous century. Her love interest with the beautiful but conflicted Irish musician Liam seems but a subplot to the deeper story of Hailey’s budding romance with the Irish people, culture, and countryside. My favorite character was Mick, a melancholy young man who soars above the story, reentering now and then to tease us with his mystical Irish beliefs and lead Hailey deeper into her own Celtic roots. I recommend the book to readers who want a taste of the Irish wrapped in prose so exquisitely fashioned that it is pure pleasure to read.
March 24, 2016
This book was pretty hard for me to rate. I chose this based on the fact that it was a new adult book (traveling, starting out in new country) set in Ireland. When I first started reading, I was a little bored on the lead up into the story. The author did a great job setting the scene and allowing you to travel to Ireland without actually going, but I did want more romance - that's just my personal preference. I prefer a love story in my books. Liam seemed strange and like I wouldn't want to be with an Irish lad. I would rate this book anywhere from 2.5*s for romance to 3.5-4* for different and interesting for a travel book.
February 6, 2016
This is a love story set in Ireland. From the start I was captivated by the beautiful narrative and poetic descriptive powers of this author. Her deep love of Ireland and familiarity with its people and places filled me with a longing to return there. What struck me about the theme was her ability to convey thoughts and feelings which elevated this story from being a mere tale of attraction to a more thought-provoking book. Four and a half stars from me, and I would certainly read this again.
July 6, 2018
I just finished DANCING TO AN IRISH REEL and feel like I've been on a mini-vacation to Ireland. The descriptions of Galway and surrounding area are fantastic and the location is a major part of the plot. I've spent time in this area of Ireland and the author's descriptions of the land (and the people) is spot-on.
Hailey worked in the music business in LA and when she wasn't sure what she wanted to do with her life, she took a vacation in Ireland. She ended up being offered a job at the Galway Music Center that was set up to publicize local traditional musicians and she decided to take the job and stay in Ireland. As she struggles to learn more about the Irish culture and people, she makes some good friends - both through her job and in her community who help her better understand the people. She is instantly drawn to a musician, Liam, but their romance is rocky to say the least. He is totally immersed in his music and doesn't seem to know how to have a relationship. She begins to think that the problems in their relationship are due to the cultures that they grew up in. It's a beautiful story of the uncertainty of new romance.
This is a beautiful written story of Hailey's romances -- with Liam, with the Irish people she comes in contact with and especially with Ireland and the beauty of the land. I highly recommend this book!
Hailey worked in the music business in LA and when she wasn't sure what she wanted to do with her life, she took a vacation in Ireland. She ended up being offered a job at the Galway Music Center that was set up to publicize local traditional musicians and she decided to take the job and stay in Ireland. As she struggles to learn more about the Irish culture and people, she makes some good friends - both through her job and in her community who help her better understand the people. She is instantly drawn to a musician, Liam, but their romance is rocky to say the least. He is totally immersed in his music and doesn't seem to know how to have a relationship. She begins to think that the problems in their relationship are due to the cultures that they grew up in. It's a beautiful story of the uncertainty of new romance.
This is a beautiful written story of Hailey's romances -- with Liam, with the Irish people she comes in contact with and especially with Ireland and the beauty of the land. I highly recommend this book!
March 19, 2022
To be honest I stumbled across this book and decided to read it based on the title, because I can in fact Irish dance to an Irish reel. This book left me speechless at the end. The beautiful prose of this story follows the day to day life of Hailey, an American living in Ireland in her mid twenties, told from her perspective working at an Irish music center in Galway and the encounters of the people she meets, as she learns and navigates this new culture, and the dialect and meanings behind the local behaviors and speech that are different from Americans.
She has an instant attraction to a lad, Liam, an acclaimed local musician whose first language is traditional Irish music, and is a reserved gentleman that has never experienced love before. Liam, being self-conscience and inexperienced, on top of trying to understand Irish cultural behavior and norms that are unfamiliar to Hailey, we see her internal dialog trying to understand his intentions and thoughts. In a sense she really was dancing to an Irish reel, as the level of directness in conversations in Ireland is different as to what Hailey is accustomed to.
I felt like I was in Ireland, driving the country roads, listening to traditional Irish music, walking the streets of Galway, having a pint in a pub, really immersed in the language and culture. It was a beautiful story of culture, communication, and learning to connect with someone that left me feeling hopeful.
She has an instant attraction to a lad, Liam, an acclaimed local musician whose first language is traditional Irish music, and is a reserved gentleman that has never experienced love before. Liam, being self-conscience and inexperienced, on top of trying to understand Irish cultural behavior and norms that are unfamiliar to Hailey, we see her internal dialog trying to understand his intentions and thoughts. In a sense she really was dancing to an Irish reel, as the level of directness in conversations in Ireland is different as to what Hailey is accustomed to.
I felt like I was in Ireland, driving the country roads, listening to traditional Irish music, walking the streets of Galway, having a pint in a pub, really immersed in the language and culture. It was a beautiful story of culture, communication, and learning to connect with someone that left me feeling hopeful.
January 11, 2024
I've been debating whether to rate this 3 or 4 stars since I finished it last night. Some aspects of the story seemed a bit weak: the development of their relationship , all the work-related drama that bored me a bit. But at the same time, I loved the ambiance; Ireland is so well depicted, and I felt like I was there too.
Also loved the conversations around "the first time in the ways of love" and how culture can shape the way we perceive relationships. I feel you, Liam!
Also loved the conversations around "the first time in the ways of love" and how culture can shape the way we perceive relationships. I feel you, Liam!
November 9, 2015
Of the many issues to discuss in reference to Claire Fullerton’s Dancing to an Irish Reel, it is most appropriate to begin with voice. Fullerton provides an incredible atmosphere of tradition and beauty by taking us on a journey to Connemara Ireland as seen through the eyes of American music executive Hailey Crossan, who helps set up and maintain a cultural music facility in the center of town. When Hailey takes midnight walks to the cemetery or the bog, we are woven into a time and place that plays ironically to the part of us yearning timelessness and disassociation, the portion of our youthful imaginations still fascinated with the velvet fog and the fairytale swell of the rugged, mystical landscape. While the plot divides airtime between Hailey’s efforts to keep the center afloat financially and at the same time interpret the feints and passes of love interest, accordion player Liam Hennessy, the most important aspect of this piece remains its deep sense of mood, its rich colors and flavors that could only be delivered by a wordsmith that has not only “been there,” but become an integral part of Ireland’s prolific history.
Since a novel cannot survive solely on its setting descriptions however, one must look not necessarily “deeper” into the storyline (the center becomes a rehearsal space and Liam is afraid of commitment), but more what Fullerton says about psychological interplay, using the music center and the relationship as emblematic launching points for a more comprehensive statement about people and language. It seems clear that the “dance” is what we do to avoid pain, and in doing so rob ourselves of beauty around us, right there in the mist Fullerton lets us taste and breathe. Still, one cannot hold mist in her hand or capture it in a box. Culture (that which is fluid no matter how seated in posterity) is impossible to encapsulate in one building (that which remains static) and love by design defies verbal definition and any sort of schematic consistency. Hailey is not our typical romantic protagonist. She doesn’t have “cheekbones an actress would kill for,” nor does she follow the more Victorian/Agonist paradigm so many romance novelists still employ through which a young girl out on her own seeks someone “older” and “father-like” (or rich and ultimately successful) to give her just enough freedom to discover she needs a man to best navigate the world.
On the contrary, Hailey Crossan is the strong figure here, unable to dissect and interpret her love interest - Liam’s hesitancy, so acute and debilitating he winds up sitting on her kitchen floor, looking at his hands, shaking his head in absolute helplessness. Considering this, one must conclude that there is something being said overall that transcends the relationship, for we are never actually given one. We are afforded glimpses of affection, a drink here, a visit there, a walk along a shadowed street now and then, all illustrating more silence and frustration than connection and closure.
The key is that Dancing to an Irish Reel does not achieve its agenda by unveiling a plot. The locus of Fullerton’s statement is in the theme she creates, or the power of the unsaid versus the futility (and paradox) of verbal interplay. Hailey is a symbol of America: blunt, courageous, and expressive, yet she meets her antithesis in Liam, who is subtle, meek, and conflicted. When either actually says something it is often misinterpreted or used as fuel to spark doubt. This is a relationship built on invented scenario as opposed to tangible romance, so most of the novel is stylistically delivered as introspection. This creates a wonderful dichotomy in that our narrator is much “closer” to her author than she is to her love interest, while “she” (both author and narrator in this case) is supposed to be the expressive one. The only conclusion we can draw from the idea that the evocative voice here is made to retreat to more subjective territory, is that Hailey or America or the culturally diversified have a world view that expresses itself like prose, while Liam, the traditionalist who is culturally rich and internally ornate in his own depreciating self-contradiction adopts a model for living more resembling poetry. Therefore, the tension of this piece builds from grounds both psychological and semiotic, making the reading itself a multi-textured pleasure.
The beauty of this text is not in the tragedy of its uncertain ending (which doesn’t read like tragedy at all actually), but rather in its delivery, that which is textured like fine embroidery suggesting the unsaid will always be more powerful than that which we try to define. Finally it is the art of interpretation that Fullerton lets us enjoy, through a lens that takes its example from the structure of the piece itself. I have read that there are many who call Dancing to an Irish Reel a literary piece, and whether or not this adds to its intrigue or appeal, or labels it as something cerebral and “heady” remains irrelevant. In terms of a genre piece, it reads like smart fiction, a romance that reveals the psychological mechanics of a budding relationship in a manner that both engages and touches the reader’s emotions. From a literary standpoint, Fullerton succeeds in utilizing a writing structure that acts as a thematic foundation of her module for the psychology of love, and that is a commendable endeavor. It is also one that is ultimately successful.
Since a novel cannot survive solely on its setting descriptions however, one must look not necessarily “deeper” into the storyline (the center becomes a rehearsal space and Liam is afraid of commitment), but more what Fullerton says about psychological interplay, using the music center and the relationship as emblematic launching points for a more comprehensive statement about people and language. It seems clear that the “dance” is what we do to avoid pain, and in doing so rob ourselves of beauty around us, right there in the mist Fullerton lets us taste and breathe. Still, one cannot hold mist in her hand or capture it in a box. Culture (that which is fluid no matter how seated in posterity) is impossible to encapsulate in one building (that which remains static) and love by design defies verbal definition and any sort of schematic consistency. Hailey is not our typical romantic protagonist. She doesn’t have “cheekbones an actress would kill for,” nor does she follow the more Victorian/Agonist paradigm so many romance novelists still employ through which a young girl out on her own seeks someone “older” and “father-like” (or rich and ultimately successful) to give her just enough freedom to discover she needs a man to best navigate the world.
On the contrary, Hailey Crossan is the strong figure here, unable to dissect and interpret her love interest - Liam’s hesitancy, so acute and debilitating he winds up sitting on her kitchen floor, looking at his hands, shaking his head in absolute helplessness. Considering this, one must conclude that there is something being said overall that transcends the relationship, for we are never actually given one. We are afforded glimpses of affection, a drink here, a visit there, a walk along a shadowed street now and then, all illustrating more silence and frustration than connection and closure.
The key is that Dancing to an Irish Reel does not achieve its agenda by unveiling a plot. The locus of Fullerton’s statement is in the theme she creates, or the power of the unsaid versus the futility (and paradox) of verbal interplay. Hailey is a symbol of America: blunt, courageous, and expressive, yet she meets her antithesis in Liam, who is subtle, meek, and conflicted. When either actually says something it is often misinterpreted or used as fuel to spark doubt. This is a relationship built on invented scenario as opposed to tangible romance, so most of the novel is stylistically delivered as introspection. This creates a wonderful dichotomy in that our narrator is much “closer” to her author than she is to her love interest, while “she” (both author and narrator in this case) is supposed to be the expressive one. The only conclusion we can draw from the idea that the evocative voice here is made to retreat to more subjective territory, is that Hailey or America or the culturally diversified have a world view that expresses itself like prose, while Liam, the traditionalist who is culturally rich and internally ornate in his own depreciating self-contradiction adopts a model for living more resembling poetry. Therefore, the tension of this piece builds from grounds both psychological and semiotic, making the reading itself a multi-textured pleasure.
The beauty of this text is not in the tragedy of its uncertain ending (which doesn’t read like tragedy at all actually), but rather in its delivery, that which is textured like fine embroidery suggesting the unsaid will always be more powerful than that which we try to define. Finally it is the art of interpretation that Fullerton lets us enjoy, through a lens that takes its example from the structure of the piece itself. I have read that there are many who call Dancing to an Irish Reel a literary piece, and whether or not this adds to its intrigue or appeal, or labels it as something cerebral and “heady” remains irrelevant. In terms of a genre piece, it reads like smart fiction, a romance that reveals the psychological mechanics of a budding relationship in a manner that both engages and touches the reader’s emotions. From a literary standpoint, Fullerton succeeds in utilizing a writing structure that acts as a thematic foundation of her module for the psychology of love, and that is a commendable endeavor. It is also one that is ultimately successful.
January 22, 2018
After reading a couple of heavy duty books in a row, I really wanted a light romance novel where their would be a "happy ever after". This was not it. It's a book about missed opportunities, non communication, and the differences between cultures even when both parties presumably speak the same language. It's not a bad book, I liked it, and I might read it again at a later date, because I did enjoy the look at rural Ireland and it's people, and culture very much.
July 13, 2024
"Everything you could ever want is here in Connemara."
The narrator, an American working and finding her way in Ireland, provides a touching interlude resulting in a somewhat logical, if not optimal, conclusion.
The narrator, an American working and finding her way in Ireland, provides a touching interlude resulting in a somewhat logical, if not optimal, conclusion.
April 29, 2020
I felt like I knew the characters. The author described Ireland so well. So far, I have loved everything she has written.
April 19, 2023
This is such a beautiful story so well written you feel like you are there. I hope it becomes a movie! My first read of Claire Fullerton . Can’t wait to read more.
March 3, 2020
Claire Fullerton does a splendid job of transporting the reader to Ireland. She weaves the terrain, the culture, and the ways of the Irish into a beautiful story about self discovery and love. Dancing to an Irish Reel is lovely novel that leaves you wanting to know more about what Hailey and Liam have in store for themselves and possibly each other in the future.
February 29, 2016
Dancing to an Irish Reel is a lovely novel by Claire Fullerton. It’s set near Galway in Inverin, a small village inside the Gaeltacht (the area of Ireland when Irish is spoken exclusively.) Fullerton’s heroine, Hailey, has moved there to work in The Galway Music Centre for traditional music. This leads to her meeting Liam, a good-looking musician who is dedicated to his craft and afraid of love.
The title refers not only to traditional music but also to the dance Claire and Liam go through in their relationship. They are obviously attracted to each other, and Fullerton weaves their partnership nicely. I found I was fully invested in their shared evenings at the pub and nights at Hailey’s little rented house.
However, Dancing to an Irish Reel isn’t a romance novel but contemporary fiction. There’s a lot of friendship in the book, between Hailey and Shannon from the centre, as well as her neighbor Mick and his girlfriend. Fullerton brings the Galway area to life with gorgeous descriptions of long walks, including a sinister exploration into a graveyard at Mick’s behest, and old pubs where Irish music is performed.
The writing is clear and deceptively simple, as in this passage:
'The two sand-colored boulders at the tip of the ledge overlooking the sea gleamed spectrally in the moon’s misty reflection. The drop to the sand below was only about eight feet, and I stood at the edge, looking down at the otherworldly moss-covered rocks that made a promenade into the sea. Turning around, I looked at Liam, who leaned against a boulder, watching me.'
I also loved the way Fullerton evoked the friendly fun between Hailey and Shannon:
'“Mrs. Donoghue, I’m Hailey, I’ve come to see Shannon,” I said.
“Shannon, is it?” she responded, not moving out of the doorway.
“Could you please tell her I’m here?”
“Does Shannon know you’re coming to see her?” she interrogated.
“She does. We have plans today.”
Mrs. Donoghue closed the door and left me standing on the sidewalk. I walked out to the street, looked up at Shannon’s bedroom window, put my index fingers together and whistled sharply. Shannon’s head appeared through her window’s lace curtains. “Will you call off the guard?” I called up.
“Just a minute.” Shannon disappeared, and a moment later, she opened the front door.
“What’s wrong with that woman?” I stepped inside. “Maybe you ought to give her your daily itinerary or something. What’s she think I’m going to do? You’d think there was a threat of kidnap.”'
There were a few minor details that jarred me as I read. Some storylines seemed to fade away with no reason. I would have liked to see the graveyard walk explored to live up to its promise, since it’s mentioned in the first chapter. Also, the Centre itself ... (spoiler alert, highlight to read) dies a natural death. It would have been nice to discover what happened with the music and all the workers at the centre.
I always approach a book set in Ireland and written by an America author with caution – are there going to be loads of shamrocks and leprechauns? Will the characters say ‘Begorrah?’ (In a lifetime of visiting Ireland, I’ve never heard anyone use that word.)
In this case, there was no need for fear. Fullerton caught the flavor of Irish life perfectly, and her characters leap off the page with their speech. She has an excellent ear for language. My one caveat was the use of ‘yah’ – it appeared in Chapter 6 and showed up often enough to bug me. Writing colloquial speech is very tricky, and while Fullerton captured the essential Irish prose (cheeky and lyrical at the same time) the overuse of ‘yah’ dragged down her prose.
However, these minor points didn’t spoil my enjoyment of Dancing to an Irish Reel. The book is intelligent and entertaining, and I recommend it as an absorbing read. If you like character development and thoughtful romance in a musical setting, this novel is a great choice.
I was given a copy of this book for an honest review.
The title refers not only to traditional music but also to the dance Claire and Liam go through in their relationship. They are obviously attracted to each other, and Fullerton weaves their partnership nicely. I found I was fully invested in their shared evenings at the pub and nights at Hailey’s little rented house.
However, Dancing to an Irish Reel isn’t a romance novel but contemporary fiction. There’s a lot of friendship in the book, between Hailey and Shannon from the centre, as well as her neighbor Mick and his girlfriend. Fullerton brings the Galway area to life with gorgeous descriptions of long walks, including a sinister exploration into a graveyard at Mick’s behest, and old pubs where Irish music is performed.
The writing is clear and deceptively simple, as in this passage:
'The two sand-colored boulders at the tip of the ledge overlooking the sea gleamed spectrally in the moon’s misty reflection. The drop to the sand below was only about eight feet, and I stood at the edge, looking down at the otherworldly moss-covered rocks that made a promenade into the sea. Turning around, I looked at Liam, who leaned against a boulder, watching me.'
I also loved the way Fullerton evoked the friendly fun between Hailey and Shannon:
'“Mrs. Donoghue, I’m Hailey, I’ve come to see Shannon,” I said.
“Shannon, is it?” she responded, not moving out of the doorway.
“Could you please tell her I’m here?”
“Does Shannon know you’re coming to see her?” she interrogated.
“She does. We have plans today.”
Mrs. Donoghue closed the door and left me standing on the sidewalk. I walked out to the street, looked up at Shannon’s bedroom window, put my index fingers together and whistled sharply. Shannon’s head appeared through her window’s lace curtains. “Will you call off the guard?” I called up.
“Just a minute.” Shannon disappeared, and a moment later, she opened the front door.
“What’s wrong with that woman?” I stepped inside. “Maybe you ought to give her your daily itinerary or something. What’s she think I’m going to do? You’d think there was a threat of kidnap.”'
There were a few minor details that jarred me as I read. Some storylines seemed to fade away with no reason. I would have liked to see the graveyard walk explored to live up to its promise, since it’s mentioned in the first chapter. Also, the Centre itself ... (spoiler alert, highlight to read) dies a natural death. It would have been nice to discover what happened with the music and all the workers at the centre.
I always approach a book set in Ireland and written by an America author with caution – are there going to be loads of shamrocks and leprechauns? Will the characters say ‘Begorrah?’ (In a lifetime of visiting Ireland, I’ve never heard anyone use that word.)
In this case, there was no need for fear. Fullerton caught the flavor of Irish life perfectly, and her characters leap off the page with their speech. She has an excellent ear for language. My one caveat was the use of ‘yah’ – it appeared in Chapter 6 and showed up often enough to bug me. Writing colloquial speech is very tricky, and while Fullerton captured the essential Irish prose (cheeky and lyrical at the same time) the overuse of ‘yah’ dragged down her prose.
However, these minor points didn’t spoil my enjoyment of Dancing to an Irish Reel. The book is intelligent and entertaining, and I recommend it as an absorbing read. If you like character development and thoughtful romance in a musical setting, this novel is a great choice.
I was given a copy of this book for an honest review.
April 6, 2015
The first impression I received as I eagerly delved into this book is Claire Fullerton has the heart of a poet. Her prose flowed so sweetly and succinctly that I was never once thrown out of the beautiful narrative which slowly unfolded. She has this innate ability to broach a subject in a way that is truly original in nature.
For example, the main character, Hailey, is wondering about her chance encounter with Liam Hennesey and instead of simply saying, "Hey, must have been fate, dontcha know." She puts it this way.
"I found it interesting that fate had provided the chance encounter. It seemed to me that if we, in our human frailty, didn't have the courage to take care of business, then the powers that be intervened seemingly by chance."
Or this beautiful piece describing musicians.
"There is a secret language musicians speak that does away with the need for articulation because it is intuitive and telepathic at its core...I felt as if I were in an insular bubble, privy to the secret internal mechanisms of a musician's rarified gift..."
As a musician it was interesting to see the perspective of a nonmusician, and to realize that she had hit the nail on the head. There are certain ways I associate, relate, and converse with people who understand music the way I do and who are as enthusiastic about the process as I am. This story touched my heart in a way that no other story has in a very long time.
I felt an added investment in the book due to my Irish ancestry and my total lack of knowledge on the subject. The idiosyncrasies of rural Ireland's culture was something I found fascinating, and how Hailey navigated that as an American was a journey I enjoyed taking. I learned just as much about myself in relation to Ireland as she did. A journey of discovery, really, and I couldn't be happier to have been a part of it.
The dynamics between Liam and Hailey were both exhilarating and frustrating simply because it was obvious he loved her, but he was woefully incapable of letting Hailey see it. I felt just as exasperated with him as she did, but it moved the story forward and added to that element of self-discovery that I felt so drawn toward. I'm not a fan of how it ended, though it couldn't have possibly ended any other way. I am all about closure, and this left so many questions unanswered, but I sincerely hope that means there will be more for Liam and Hailey in the future because I would dive into that story too.
We are gifted with a beautiful piece of poetry at the end that left me feeling a bit choked up. Bad timing for me, considering I had to go pick up my kids from school and transition myself from moved-and-inspired-by-poetry to crazed-mommy-the-cheauffer.
Claire Fullerton wrote a beautiful piece that will pique the interest of anyone fond of Irish history, romance and the intricacies of human relationships.
For example, the main character, Hailey, is wondering about her chance encounter with Liam Hennesey and instead of simply saying, "Hey, must have been fate, dontcha know." She puts it this way.
"I found it interesting that fate had provided the chance encounter. It seemed to me that if we, in our human frailty, didn't have the courage to take care of business, then the powers that be intervened seemingly by chance."
Or this beautiful piece describing musicians.
"There is a secret language musicians speak that does away with the need for articulation because it is intuitive and telepathic at its core...I felt as if I were in an insular bubble, privy to the secret internal mechanisms of a musician's rarified gift..."
As a musician it was interesting to see the perspective of a nonmusician, and to realize that she had hit the nail on the head. There are certain ways I associate, relate, and converse with people who understand music the way I do and who are as enthusiastic about the process as I am. This story touched my heart in a way that no other story has in a very long time.
I felt an added investment in the book due to my Irish ancestry and my total lack of knowledge on the subject. The idiosyncrasies of rural Ireland's culture was something I found fascinating, and how Hailey navigated that as an American was a journey I enjoyed taking. I learned just as much about myself in relation to Ireland as she did. A journey of discovery, really, and I couldn't be happier to have been a part of it.
The dynamics between Liam and Hailey were both exhilarating and frustrating simply because it was obvious he loved her, but he was woefully incapable of letting Hailey see it. I felt just as exasperated with him as she did, but it moved the story forward and added to that element of self-discovery that I felt so drawn toward. I'm not a fan of how it ended, though it couldn't have possibly ended any other way. I am all about closure, and this left so many questions unanswered, but I sincerely hope that means there will be more for Liam and Hailey in the future because I would dive into that story too.
We are gifted with a beautiful piece of poetry at the end that left me feeling a bit choked up. Bad timing for me, considering I had to go pick up my kids from school and transition myself from moved-and-inspired-by-poetry to crazed-mommy-the-cheauffer.
Claire Fullerton wrote a beautiful piece that will pique the interest of anyone fond of Irish history, romance and the intricacies of human relationships.
June 22, 2015
This is a beautiful prose of a tale. The ending didn’t blow me away though it just left it at that. As if you can see what will become based on earlier situations. This is but isn’t romance. It’s romance in the sense that two people fall in love and struggle with falling for one another. Their struggle isn’t external but internal particularly for Liam who is scared witless by this.
Liam is a great guy but lives in the past and doesn’t always stay in the moment. He continuously examines the past to see how it relates to the here and now and how it can help change what is being done today. Until Hailey this worked. Than Hailey came and his world changed. And his world confused him. Love was something he never felt for a woman before and he was lost as to what to do. Miscommunication on both parties left both of them reeling and Liam more than Hailey. Hailey had her friends to go to whereas Liam had no one he felt could help him with his internal struggle. So he waffled in and out of Hailey’s life. In the end he does talk to her but that is where we are left just wondering. It just ends. Leaving you to have your mind figure out where they went from there that and the psychic words that Hailey saw.
The story really is about Hailey’s journey into self discovery and figuring out the Irish culture. It is poetic in how it’s written and does capture you with the prose and how things are done. Hailey comes to Ireland on sabbatical and just doesn’t go home. She begins to love the area and gets a job. A job that has a boss Declan who needs to do his own self discovery. A flighty man that is. Also selfish for he opens a music center and when it isn’t all about him anymore he becomes disinterested.
Each character is well defined and enhances to the story and helps add perspective to Hailey’s journey and her time in Ireland. This is what the story is about a poetic prose of Hailey’s time in Ireland and her journey to self discovery and a little romance. It’s well written, informative and inquisitive for the mind as well. The characters are well developed and keep you in the story. Her and to an extent Liam’s journey is interesting and one’s you want to see to the end. It really is a beautifully written story that shouldn’t be missed.
Liam is a great guy but lives in the past and doesn’t always stay in the moment. He continuously examines the past to see how it relates to the here and now and how it can help change what is being done today. Until Hailey this worked. Than Hailey came and his world changed. And his world confused him. Love was something he never felt for a woman before and he was lost as to what to do. Miscommunication on both parties left both of them reeling and Liam more than Hailey. Hailey had her friends to go to whereas Liam had no one he felt could help him with his internal struggle. So he waffled in and out of Hailey’s life. In the end he does talk to her but that is where we are left just wondering. It just ends. Leaving you to have your mind figure out where they went from there that and the psychic words that Hailey saw.
The story really is about Hailey’s journey into self discovery and figuring out the Irish culture. It is poetic in how it’s written and does capture you with the prose and how things are done. Hailey comes to Ireland on sabbatical and just doesn’t go home. She begins to love the area and gets a job. A job that has a boss Declan who needs to do his own self discovery. A flighty man that is. Also selfish for he opens a music center and when it isn’t all about him anymore he becomes disinterested.
Each character is well defined and enhances to the story and helps add perspective to Hailey’s journey and her time in Ireland. This is what the story is about a poetic prose of Hailey’s time in Ireland and her journey to self discovery and a little romance. It’s well written, informative and inquisitive for the mind as well. The characters are well developed and keep you in the story. Her and to an extent Liam’s journey is interesting and one’s you want to see to the end. It really is a beautifully written story that shouldn’t be missed.
May 29, 2015
It's very hard to write a review of this beautiful little book without spoilers. So please bear with me if I start with my own story, because in many ways I felt like Claire Fullerton was writing about me.
It was many years ago that I landed in Ireland and stuck out my thumb looking for rides. I’d just graduated with a shiny new diploma in Anglo Irish Lit, and it was time to see what I’d spent all those years studying. My advisor claimed that the best way to see Ireland was to hitchhike. And he was right. I met an amazing, incredible cross-section of people, and was invited into their homes, lives, and pubs. Everyone had a family member or friend in the States—did I know them too? Almost everyone had a random collection of rocks in their field—did I know it used to be a castle? One had the wrong idea—did I know it was that easy to break someone’s nose? And one was the funniest person I’d ever met—did I know I’d be leaving with a ring on my finger? In my case, life happened, the ring ended up in the bottom of my jewelry box, and the memories have faded.
What I learned most of all was that falling in love is pretty easy when you want to. But—as Hailey and Liam also find out in Dancing to an Irish Reel—that doesn't mean you automatically understand the other person, or that your lives fit each other. Sexual attraction makes a fine beginning for a relationship, but it doesn't always pull you across the finish line.
Even so, the memory of that magic can remain, and even more, it can teach you about getting it right the next time. And, as Claire writes so beautifully in Dancing to an Irish Reel, there is also something magic about Ireland. I’d urge you all to read her beautiful book, and to plan a visit soon.
It was many years ago that I landed in Ireland and stuck out my thumb looking for rides. I’d just graduated with a shiny new diploma in Anglo Irish Lit, and it was time to see what I’d spent all those years studying. My advisor claimed that the best way to see Ireland was to hitchhike. And he was right. I met an amazing, incredible cross-section of people, and was invited into their homes, lives, and pubs. Everyone had a family member or friend in the States—did I know them too? Almost everyone had a random collection of rocks in their field—did I know it used to be a castle? One had the wrong idea—did I know it was that easy to break someone’s nose? And one was the funniest person I’d ever met—did I know I’d be leaving with a ring on my finger? In my case, life happened, the ring ended up in the bottom of my jewelry box, and the memories have faded.
What I learned most of all was that falling in love is pretty easy when you want to. But—as Hailey and Liam also find out in Dancing to an Irish Reel—that doesn't mean you automatically understand the other person, or that your lives fit each other. Sexual attraction makes a fine beginning for a relationship, but it doesn't always pull you across the finish line.
Even so, the memory of that magic can remain, and even more, it can teach you about getting it right the next time. And, as Claire writes so beautifully in Dancing to an Irish Reel, there is also something magic about Ireland. I’d urge you all to read her beautiful book, and to plan a visit soon.
January 27, 2016
Reviewed by Carla Trueheart for Readers' Favorite
Dancing to an Irish Reel by Claire Fullerton tells the story of Hailey, an American who lands a job at a music centre in Ireland. Hailey helps local musicians organize their careers at the music centre, but she also has friends at the centre as well. Throughout the story Hailey helps her friends, she thrives in the culture and landscape of Ireland, and she relays the beautiful land and the residents of Ireland through introspection, providing insight about the many people she meets. The heart of the story, however, is Liam, a shy and withdrawn musician who steals Hailey’s heart. Hailey is confused by Liam’s behavior, and the two find they are similar in the ways they avoid talking to each other and telling each other how they truly feel.
Sometimes an author connects with their subject so well that it is evident in the story. Author Claire Fullerton gives many details of Irish life and culture, and the reader does feel very much inside the Irish landscape, hearing the voices of Irish residents and breathing in the fresh Irish air. There is much to like in Dancing to an Irish Reel, from the inner thoughts of Hailey to the budding romance between Hailey and Liam. I would have loved a little more spark between the two, but my take is that the book was more about Hailey’s journey in Ireland than her Irish romance. I enjoyed the little scenes that captured the magic of Ireland, such as the Tarot card reader and the unique music. The dialogue was spot-on for the area, and I did enjoy the many characters and their interactions with Hailey. Dancing to an Irish Reel is a relaxed, sit back and read book, and is recommended to those who like stories with light romance and cultural commentary.
Dancing to an Irish Reel by Claire Fullerton tells the story of Hailey, an American who lands a job at a music centre in Ireland. Hailey helps local musicians organize their careers at the music centre, but she also has friends at the centre as well. Throughout the story Hailey helps her friends, she thrives in the culture and landscape of Ireland, and she relays the beautiful land and the residents of Ireland through introspection, providing insight about the many people she meets. The heart of the story, however, is Liam, a shy and withdrawn musician who steals Hailey’s heart. Hailey is confused by Liam’s behavior, and the two find they are similar in the ways they avoid talking to each other and telling each other how they truly feel.
Sometimes an author connects with their subject so well that it is evident in the story. Author Claire Fullerton gives many details of Irish life and culture, and the reader does feel very much inside the Irish landscape, hearing the voices of Irish residents and breathing in the fresh Irish air. There is much to like in Dancing to an Irish Reel, from the inner thoughts of Hailey to the budding romance between Hailey and Liam. I would have loved a little more spark between the two, but my take is that the book was more about Hailey’s journey in Ireland than her Irish romance. I enjoyed the little scenes that captured the magic of Ireland, such as the Tarot card reader and the unique music. The dialogue was spot-on for the area, and I did enjoy the many characters and their interactions with Hailey. Dancing to an Irish Reel is a relaxed, sit back and read book, and is recommended to those who like stories with light romance and cultural commentary.
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