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Maggie O'Halloran #3
A New World for the Irish Daughter:
Walking through the thick fog clouding San Francisco, Maggie lifts her chin and forces a smile to her lips. “We must rebuild our lives and fight for our future, no matter what…”
San Francisco, 1893: When Maggie O’Halloran steps off the train in California, she knows she must be brave for her friend Brendan and her brother Danny. Having fled both New York and Chicago, they all have broken spirits and fear having to start again. Can Maggie find courage and strength for them all?
Maggie soon finds a boarding house that will take them in. In a lively part of town, and with a colourful clientele, it is not somewhere she ever imagined staying. Until one night when they are woken by a distressing cry, and Maggie finds herself assisting a doctor to save a young woman’s life.
Working through the night by candlelight, Maggie realises this may be her true calling. When the doctor asks if she would consider training as a nurse, she says yes immediately, hopeful she might have finally found her purpose in life. Will this now give her the courage to tell Brendan how she truly feels?
But before she can risk her heart, Brendan reveals that Danny is in trouble once more. They are leaving at dawn for Alaska to mine for gold, and Maggie is both shocked and heartbroken. Should she stay, and continue the work that has given her life such meaning? Or should she sacrifice everything, and follow those she loves even further into the unknown?
The third book in the epic Maggie O’Halloran series is a sweeping and atmospheric story about following your heart, no matter where it takes you. Perfect for fans of Kristin Hannah, Kristin Harmel and Jean Grainger.
Praise for Kate Hewitt’s historical fiction
“Beautiful… Phenomenal… I was heartbroken… Keep the tissue box close by because you will surely need it… Unputdownable. I loved everything about this… I was hooked.” Page Turners ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“WOW! This book completely hooked me from the first page to the last… I literally couldn’t put it down… Amazing.” Goodreads reviewer ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“Gripped me, made my heart race and my breathing stop… Heartbreaking… 5 stars and more!” Inspiredbypmdd ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“Heartbreaking… Left me breathless… On the edge of my seat… Wonderful.” Goodreads reviewer ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“Brilliant… I loved it… WOW!… Beautiful… Gripped from the beginning till the end.” Goodreads reviewer ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
San Francisco, 1893: When Maggie O’Halloran steps off the train in California, she knows she must be brave for her friend Brendan and her brother Danny. Having fled both New York and Chicago, they all have broken spirits and fear having to start again. Can Maggie find courage and strength for them all?
Maggie soon finds a boarding house that will take them in. In a lively part of town, and with a colourful clientele, it is not somewhere she ever imagined staying. Until one night when they are woken by a distressing cry, and Maggie finds herself assisting a doctor to save a young woman’s life.
Working through the night by candlelight, Maggie realises this may be her true calling. When the doctor asks if she would consider training as a nurse, she says yes immediately, hopeful she might have finally found her purpose in life. Will this now give her the courage to tell Brendan how she truly feels?
But before she can risk her heart, Brendan reveals that Danny is in trouble once more. They are leaving at dawn for Alaska to mine for gold, and Maggie is both shocked and heartbroken. Should she stay, and continue the work that has given her life such meaning? Or should she sacrifice everything, and follow those she loves even further into the unknown?
The third book in the epic Maggie O’Halloran series is a sweeping and atmospheric story about following your heart, no matter where it takes you. Perfect for fans of Kristin Hannah, Kristin Harmel and Jean Grainger.
Praise for Kate Hewitt’s historical fiction
“Beautiful… Phenomenal… I was heartbroken… Keep the tissue box close by because you will surely need it… Unputdownable. I loved everything about this… I was hooked.” Page Turners ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“WOW! This book completely hooked me from the first page to the last… I literally couldn’t put it down… Amazing.” Goodreads reviewer ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“Gripped me, made my heart race and my breathing stop… Heartbreaking… 5 stars and more!” Inspiredbypmdd ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“Heartbreaking… Left me breathless… On the edge of my seat… Wonderful.” Goodreads reviewer ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“Brilliant… I loved it… WOW!… Beautiful… Gripped from the beginning till the end.” Goodreads reviewer ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
354 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 27, 2026
About the author
Kate Hewitt
970 books1,794 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 34 reviews
July 30, 2026
A New World for the Irish Daughter is a book that I wanted to find out what was going to happen, but I didn't want it to end either. It's the third and final book in the series and it wraps up the story well. At the end of the last book, Maggie, her brother Danny and their friend Brendan left Chicago amid a scandal and an investigation into murder of Brandon's boss. They have been told that Declan, their father is in San Francisco, but once again, they are starting with almost nothing. Their first issue is to find a place to stay and they end up at the door of a brothel. The madam knows their father, in fact he works part-time for her and stays at the house. She takes them in, with Maggie doing alterations of the women's clothing, and Danny and Brendan doing chores around the house. When one of the women, a 14 year old girl becomes pregnant, Maggie says some things she shouldn't. When she needs emergency medical care as she is losing the baby, Maggie assists the doctor to save her life. The result is both good and bad. Maggie is told she has to pay to live there or leave, but the doctor offers her a lifeline. She is admitted to nursing school and will live and work at the hospital. She feels isolated with Brendan no longer speaking to her, and only seeing her father and brother occasionally. When Brendan comes to tell her that her brother and father are in trouble with the law and the gangs, she is worried about them, but not surprised. What does surprise her is that they are heading to Alaska for the gold rush and Brendan is going with them. Maggie doesn't want to be alone in San Francisco, so she quits the program a couple months shy of receiving her certificate and heads to Alaska with them.
Wow, I was surprised where this story went, but I loved it. I wanted things to work out for Maggie and Brendan, but she might have waited to long and spurned him too often. Alaska is a wild country, with very few women. They found a place to live, but still had to find jobs. I enjoyed seeing how this group once again had to make their way in a new place. Maggie is such a strong character. She is smart, hard working and fortunately learned from her mistakes. I wanted to smack Danny many times. Maggie looked after him for so many years, but he was lazy and always wanted to take the easy way. I wasn't sure about their dad. I know they loved him, but he left them to fend for themselves for years, and his happy go lucky attitude really grated on me. I know Brendan was hurt when Maggie spurned him, and that he still loved her, but he was afraid to be hurt again. I so wanted them to get together. If you want to know what happens to this group and how they manage in another environment, you will have to pick up A New World for the Irish Daughter. I highly recommend this book and series.
Wow, I was surprised where this story went, but I loved it. I wanted things to work out for Maggie and Brendan, but she might have waited to long and spurned him too often. Alaska is a wild country, with very few women. They found a place to live, but still had to find jobs. I enjoyed seeing how this group once again had to make their way in a new place. Maggie is such a strong character. She is smart, hard working and fortunately learned from her mistakes. I wanted to smack Danny many times. Maggie looked after him for so many years, but he was lazy and always wanted to take the easy way. I wasn't sure about their dad. I know they loved him, but he left them to fend for themselves for years, and his happy go lucky attitude really grated on me. I know Brendan was hurt when Maggie spurned him, and that he still loved her, but he was afraid to be hurt again. I so wanted them to get together. If you want to know what happens to this group and how they manage in another environment, you will have to pick up A New World for the Irish Daughter. I highly recommend this book and series.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Book four in Kate Hewitt’s, Maggie O’Halloran series, sees Maggie, her brother Danny and friend Brendan stepping off the train from Chicago into a new world for her that of San Francisco. This is another chance for a clean slate and new opportunities having once again had to flee after turbulent and emotional times in Chicago. This is their third time starting over having reached America from Ireland and settled in New York where they met Brendan, then moving to Chicago so hopefully this will be the final stop that Maggie and co have to make in what has been a rollercoaster of a ride since they first set foot upon American soil. I have loved every book in this series and have been rooting for a positive, plentiful and solid outcome for Maggie but in this new story the author still had plenty more troubles and ups and downs in store for her characters. I had thought with the previous book that it was becoming a bit too formulaic with the characters settling somewhere, trying to make a go of things and things take a positive turn only for more danger, angst and uprooting occurring. But on reflection having finished this book all that needed to happen because in reality life wasn’t easy for new settlers and to reach the good times they had to traverse challenge ng and difficult experiences.
Maggie is determined to make a go of things and put past events behind them, but Brendan remains indifferent after what he witnessed in Chicago. Throughout the majority of the book, it was like he had retreated into himself and the man Maggie first met in New York was no longer there. The cheerful, capable, stalwart, kind and warm hearted man didn’t make himself known and, in some ways, you couldn’t blame him. He was traumatised and on an emotional level regarding Maggie, he had tried numerous times to express his feelings for her and to be there for herself and Danny when the worst befalls him, but he got nothing back in return. That’s one thing that frustrated me about Maggie, she hid her feelings deep within her core when all she had to do was release them and let love in. Things could have been so much easier for her but I thought she chose to tread an unnecessary path at times. She rejected Brendan more than once as she was determined to forge her own way but in doing so it had left her with nothing and the loneliness she experiences for the vast majority of the book I thought well really it was of her own making.
Upon reaching San Francisco, all Maggie wants is a roof over her head and to find a way to keep her body and soul together. She is in survival mode and I thought when they finally find her father who abandoned them in Ireland several years ago that this would be the turning point for everyone. But discovering he lived in a brothel run by Jessie who was a shrewd hard-nosed businesswoman meant that they were still very much done on their luck. I loved the section of the book set in Chicago. History was coming to life in a real and visceral way. It was a fresh and exciting time when what would go on to be major cities were only beginning to emerge. The detail throughout the book was incredible and clearly there was lots of extensive research undertaken by the author. Without going into detail through one thing and another Maggie ends up training to be a nurse. I thought it was ingenious the event that led to this seed being planted in Maggie’s mind and it opened up many avenues and strands from which the plot grew from.
Nursing gave Maggie a purpose and she felt she was doing good in the world helping people but again it alienated her from her family and Brendan and I thought there was no chance of them ever coming back as one and securing the steady, peaceful and happy life they had all craved in America. Maggie tends to run from her emotions especially when it comes to Brendan maybe because she was afraid and thought she wanted things which in turn only left her emptier than ever. I liked the new Maggie when she was training to be a nurse. Her ambition returned and I felt she was getting stronger on a professional level but when it came to emotions of the heart I thought she still wavered and needed to become more solid in this area. Around the halfway mark, the book takes another turn and as usual Danny and his father Declan have gotten into trouble and are leaving San Francisco. I was distraught for Maggie because she only had short time to go to be qualified. In my mind she made a very rash decision following the news given by Brendan of her family’s troubles. She was up and gone in an instant and I know family is everything but she should have out herself first for once. Not to mention that Brendan was deeply unhappy that she was accompanying them to the great unknown of Alaska which was meant to be wild.
The later half of the book set in Alaska was fantastic. There were endless beautiful descriptions of the landscape and the ways of life so very different from what they had experienced before. It was great to see the plight of the Native Americans highlighted and how something Maggie selflessly did connected to this theme. The Gold Rush and the Klondike were all brilliantly described and explored and I thoroughly enjoyed this part of the book as there were lots of twists and turns as they navigated new adventures and troubles at a time when the area was establishing itself and experiencing an influx of people searching for gold. It was history brought to life in a fantastic way and I felt this was where Maggie was coming of age both professionally and emotionally. I never knew how things were going to pan out because with every turn of the page something new was happening and there were so many differences and separations to overcome. Maggie, faces her greatest challenge in Alaska but whether she emerges from it successfully or worn down to her core you will have to read this fascinating and engrossing story for yourself.
A New World for the Irish Daughter brings to a close Maggie’s story. Although the selfish part of me would love a short story just to further wrap things up as there was no epilogue which would have done this. I feel I have come full circle with Maggie and her family and friends and I have loved every minute of her journey. She has searched, striven, struggled, fought, loved, lost and grieved and I have felt every bit of those emotions alongside her. This book and the entire series is definitely well worth a read as you will get so much from it.
Maggie is determined to make a go of things and put past events behind them, but Brendan remains indifferent after what he witnessed in Chicago. Throughout the majority of the book, it was like he had retreated into himself and the man Maggie first met in New York was no longer there. The cheerful, capable, stalwart, kind and warm hearted man didn’t make himself known and, in some ways, you couldn’t blame him. He was traumatised and on an emotional level regarding Maggie, he had tried numerous times to express his feelings for her and to be there for herself and Danny when the worst befalls him, but he got nothing back in return. That’s one thing that frustrated me about Maggie, she hid her feelings deep within her core when all she had to do was release them and let love in. Things could have been so much easier for her but I thought she chose to tread an unnecessary path at times. She rejected Brendan more than once as she was determined to forge her own way but in doing so it had left her with nothing and the loneliness she experiences for the vast majority of the book I thought well really it was of her own making.
Upon reaching San Francisco, all Maggie wants is a roof over her head and to find a way to keep her body and soul together. She is in survival mode and I thought when they finally find her father who abandoned them in Ireland several years ago that this would be the turning point for everyone. But discovering he lived in a brothel run by Jessie who was a shrewd hard-nosed businesswoman meant that they were still very much done on their luck. I loved the section of the book set in Chicago. History was coming to life in a real and visceral way. It was a fresh and exciting time when what would go on to be major cities were only beginning to emerge. The detail throughout the book was incredible and clearly there was lots of extensive research undertaken by the author. Without going into detail through one thing and another Maggie ends up training to be a nurse. I thought it was ingenious the event that led to this seed being planted in Maggie’s mind and it opened up many avenues and strands from which the plot grew from.
Nursing gave Maggie a purpose and she felt she was doing good in the world helping people but again it alienated her from her family and Brendan and I thought there was no chance of them ever coming back as one and securing the steady, peaceful and happy life they had all craved in America. Maggie tends to run from her emotions especially when it comes to Brendan maybe because she was afraid and thought she wanted things which in turn only left her emptier than ever. I liked the new Maggie when she was training to be a nurse. Her ambition returned and I felt she was getting stronger on a professional level but when it came to emotions of the heart I thought she still wavered and needed to become more solid in this area. Around the halfway mark, the book takes another turn and as usual Danny and his father Declan have gotten into trouble and are leaving San Francisco. I was distraught for Maggie because she only had short time to go to be qualified. In my mind she made a very rash decision following the news given by Brendan of her family’s troubles. She was up and gone in an instant and I know family is everything but she should have out herself first for once. Not to mention that Brendan was deeply unhappy that she was accompanying them to the great unknown of Alaska which was meant to be wild.
The later half of the book set in Alaska was fantastic. There were endless beautiful descriptions of the landscape and the ways of life so very different from what they had experienced before. It was great to see the plight of the Native Americans highlighted and how something Maggie selflessly did connected to this theme. The Gold Rush and the Klondike were all brilliantly described and explored and I thoroughly enjoyed this part of the book as there were lots of twists and turns as they navigated new adventures and troubles at a time when the area was establishing itself and experiencing an influx of people searching for gold. It was history brought to life in a fantastic way and I felt this was where Maggie was coming of age both professionally and emotionally. I never knew how things were going to pan out because with every turn of the page something new was happening and there were so many differences and separations to overcome. Maggie, faces her greatest challenge in Alaska but whether she emerges from it successfully or worn down to her core you will have to read this fascinating and engrossing story for yourself.
A New World for the Irish Daughter brings to a close Maggie’s story. Although the selfish part of me would love a short story just to further wrap things up as there was no epilogue which would have done this. I feel I have come full circle with Maggie and her family and friends and I have loved every minute of her journey. She has searched, striven, struggled, fought, loved, lost and grieved and I have felt every bit of those emotions alongside her. This book and the entire series is definitely well worth a read as you will get so much from it.
August 4, 2026
This is a wonderful book with a terrible title; a reader should pay the title no mind when deciding whether or not to read it.
This novel is part of a series and I have read all of them but this may be the best one. It is also entirely possible to read this book as a standalone novel. Although the main character is the same in each entry, her situation is different. Or perhaps, I should say the location is different. This novel takes the reader from San Francisco to Alaska. Each place that Maggie is in tests her mettle in some way. It is relatively easy to see how Alaska can pose challenges during the late 1800s as compared to San Francisco, not that a relatively large city doesn't but those challenges are very different.
It is hard not to love Maggie; she is the kind of person who I would love to sit down and share a meal with. What I did not love particularly in this book was how she dealt with her love interest, but it was the late 1800s and women were different then. I know I am being a little cagey, by design because I do not want to reveal more to prospective readers.
This novel will appeal to the following kinds of readers:
Women (more then men)
Those who enjoy American history
People who like romance with little spice (this is a clean novel, which I find refreshing)
Those who do not mind romance mixed in with their history
People who like seeing how others deal with adversity
People who like well-developed and strong female characters
If you are looking for well-developed historical narrative, this may not be the best choice. I am sure that the details are adequately researched and necessary for the story, but the reader should be as much invested in the characters and how they are personally challenged. For example, although the gold rush is definitely referenced in the book, that is not where the focus lies.
I enjoy all sorts of historical fiction; those steeped in significant details of the era and place and those that are more character focused.
I look forward to the next entry in the series.
Thanks to Net Galley and Bookouture for providing me with this novel. All opinions herein are my own.
Please follow my reviews on the website The Book Review Crew. This review is posted at https://thebookreviewcrew.com/a-new-w...
Four and half stars rounded to five stars.
This novel is part of a series and I have read all of them but this may be the best one. It is also entirely possible to read this book as a standalone novel. Although the main character is the same in each entry, her situation is different. Or perhaps, I should say the location is different. This novel takes the reader from San Francisco to Alaska. Each place that Maggie is in tests her mettle in some way. It is relatively easy to see how Alaska can pose challenges during the late 1800s as compared to San Francisco, not that a relatively large city doesn't but those challenges are very different.
It is hard not to love Maggie; she is the kind of person who I would love to sit down and share a meal with. What I did not love particularly in this book was how she dealt with her love interest, but it was the late 1800s and women were different then. I know I am being a little cagey, by design because I do not want to reveal more to prospective readers.
This novel will appeal to the following kinds of readers:
Women (more then men)
Those who enjoy American history
People who like romance with little spice (this is a clean novel, which I find refreshing)
Those who do not mind romance mixed in with their history
People who like seeing how others deal with adversity
People who like well-developed and strong female characters
If you are looking for well-developed historical narrative, this may not be the best choice. I am sure that the details are adequately researched and necessary for the story, but the reader should be as much invested in the characters and how they are personally challenged. For example, although the gold rush is definitely referenced in the book, that is not where the focus lies.
I enjoy all sorts of historical fiction; those steeped in significant details of the era and place and those that are more character focused.
I look forward to the next entry in the series.
Thanks to Net Galley and Bookouture for providing me with this novel. All opinions herein are my own.
Please follow my reviews on the website The Book Review Crew. This review is posted at https://thebookreviewcrew.com/a-new-w...
Four and half stars rounded to five stars.
July 27, 2026
A New World for the Irish Daughter by Kate Hewitt finds Maggie, along with Danny, her father, Declan, and Brendan in San Francisco. Brendan is still reeling from his minor part in his murdering boss back in Chicago and was quiet. They did track town Maggie and Danny’s father, in a whore house, ostensibly as a handy man, but in reality, didn’t do much. The proprietor offered them all rooms and although Maggie was less than thrilled, they accepted. At one point, one of the younger ladies became pregnant and suffered a miscarriage. A doctor was called and she drafted Maggie into assisting. After doing as well as she could, the doctor, a lovely woman, offered to assist her with applying for the nursing school at her hospital. It seemed Maggie had found a new calling. She thrived. She also discovered what her feelings for Brendan actually were. Of course, Danny and Declan couldn’t work for wages for long and set off for Alaska to look for gold. Brendan left on a buying trip for his new store and, Maggie found her self a mother to an abandoned native girl. Then, one night a prospector dropped by and let them know of the dire straits Danny and Declan found themselves in.
Of course, Brendan and Maggie took off to help, a different kind of adventure, to be sure. These have been very engaging characters put in some interesting situations, but such was life for Irish immigrants at that time. Maggie is ambitious, but caring. She had found herself in some interesting situations because of her ambition. Danny, always one for a quick buck, somewhat like his father. Brendan was the steady one, with a clear eye to what he wanted, Maggie being the only thing that pulled him of course. It has been a fun journey with plenty of side stories and people. Lots of twists and turns. Good read.
I was invited to read A New World for the Irish Daughter by Bookoutre. All thoughts and opinions are mine. #Netgalley #Bookoutre #KateHewitt #ANewWorldForTheIrishDaughter
Of course, Brendan and Maggie took off to help, a different kind of adventure, to be sure. These have been very engaging characters put in some interesting situations, but such was life for Irish immigrants at that time. Maggie is ambitious, but caring. She had found herself in some interesting situations because of her ambition. Danny, always one for a quick buck, somewhat like his father. Brendan was the steady one, with a clear eye to what he wanted, Maggie being the only thing that pulled him of course. It has been a fun journey with plenty of side stories and people. Lots of twists and turns. Good read.
I was invited to read A New World for the Irish Daughter by Bookoutre. All thoughts and opinions are mine. #Netgalley #Bookoutre #KateHewitt #ANewWorldForTheIrishDaughter
July 27, 2026
I have read this series the whole way through, this is the third and final book in it I believe.
Though each book can be read as a standalone I highly recommend reading the series in order for a richer reading experience.
The series has taken us to so many places.
I can see the character growth in the characters. Starting out Danny was a little tike, finishing up he was in his early twenties. He started out scared and Maggie was essentially his mother because she passed away and their father was gone destination unknown at the time.
As the series progresses, he becomes a product of his environment after arriving in America from Ireland and doesn't always make the best choices for himself and he and Maggie as a group either.
Upon arriving in America thy met Brendan who only wants the best for them and is with them for the most part throughout the three books.
Maggie doesn't have it easy, coming to a brand-new country, responsible for a young child, her brother Danny as a young person herself. Of course, she makes mistakes along the way, but she always has their best interest at heart.
From the first to last book, we see her going from a scared young woman with not much experience to a more mature woman who has put up with a lot, more than she thought she could handle and her experiences have made her a stronger woman and given her gumption.
I loved reading about the different traveling experiences and how they fared in each place, some better than others. The descriptions of the places and their activities were very realistic and I enjoyed them.
Highly recommend all of the authors books.
Though each book can be read as a standalone I highly recommend reading the series in order for a richer reading experience.
The series has taken us to so many places.
I can see the character growth in the characters. Starting out Danny was a little tike, finishing up he was in his early twenties. He started out scared and Maggie was essentially his mother because she passed away and their father was gone destination unknown at the time.
As the series progresses, he becomes a product of his environment after arriving in America from Ireland and doesn't always make the best choices for himself and he and Maggie as a group either.
Upon arriving in America thy met Brendan who only wants the best for them and is with them for the most part throughout the three books.
Maggie doesn't have it easy, coming to a brand-new country, responsible for a young child, her brother Danny as a young person herself. Of course, she makes mistakes along the way, but she always has their best interest at heart.
From the first to last book, we see her going from a scared young woman with not much experience to a more mature woman who has put up with a lot, more than she thought she could handle and her experiences have made her a stronger woman and given her gumption.
I loved reading about the different traveling experiences and how they fared in each place, some better than others. The descriptions of the places and their activities were very realistic and I enjoyed them.
Highly recommend all of the authors books.
July 29, 2026
When Maggie, Brendan and her brother, Danny stepped off the train in San Franciso, almost immediately I knew they were off to a bad start when they discovered Maggie and Danny’s father living at a house of ill repute. With nowhere else to go, and very little money, they were invited to stay by the owner, and before too long, Maggie found herself in an awkward situation with the owner and must find another place to live. The opportunity quickly presents itself, and she begins two years of training as a nurse. When she has two months left of her training, Brendon tells her that he and her father and Danny are leaving for Alaska. My heart absolutely sank when she heard the news! A big part of me wanted her to stay because she finally found purpose, but I knew losing her family and Brendon would have been heartbreaking for her. When they left for Alaska, this is when the story really got adventurous and I felt I was in the wilds alongside them.
I had the pleasure of reading the second book in this trilogy, but I mentioned in my review for that book that I had not read the first book yet, and I still haven’t! That said, this latest and final installment of Maggie’s adventures is my absolute favorite so far. I will be adding these books to my physical book stack, and my only complaint about this series is that it has ended.
Beautifully historical woven elements blended with atmospheric surroundings, and deeply complex characters that will capture your heart.
Stephanie
I obtained an ARC from the publishers through Netgalley for an honest review.
Stephanie
www.layeredpages.com
I had the pleasure of reading the second book in this trilogy, but I mentioned in my review for that book that I had not read the first book yet, and I still haven’t! That said, this latest and final installment of Maggie’s adventures is my absolute favorite so far. I will be adding these books to my physical book stack, and my only complaint about this series is that it has ended.
Beautifully historical woven elements blended with atmospheric surroundings, and deeply complex characters that will capture your heart.
Stephanie
I obtained an ARC from the publishers through Netgalley for an honest review.
Stephanie
www.layeredpages.com
July 19, 2026
3.5 stars - Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture for the eARC! I really enjoyed the Maggie O'Halloran series, so I was excited to continue Maggie's journey in this third installment. Kate Hewitt once again creates compelling historical settings and emotionally rich characters that kept me invested throughout the story.
One of my favorite aspects of the series has always been the slow-burn romance. The emotional tension between the main characters is handled well, and I appreciated that their relationship developed gradually over multiple books. The dialogue between them was one of the highlights for me, and several scenes carried a strong emotional impact.
I especially enjoyed the first half of the novel. The story felt engaging, and I was eager to see what would happen next. While I understood the motivations behind many of the characters' choices, I found myself less invested in the second half of the book. The change in setting and direction didn't captivate me quite as much as earlier parts of the series, and I felt some of the long-running storylines wrapped up more quickly than I had anticipated after the buildup across the trilogy.
I still enjoyed returning to these characters and appreciated seeing their journey. I'm not sure if this is the last book in the series but the storylines did seem to reach conclusion at the end. I would highly recommend this series to fans of historical fiction, family sagas, and slow-burn romance.
One of my favorite aspects of the series has always been the slow-burn romance. The emotional tension between the main characters is handled well, and I appreciated that their relationship developed gradually over multiple books. The dialogue between them was one of the highlights for me, and several scenes carried a strong emotional impact.
I especially enjoyed the first half of the novel. The story felt engaging, and I was eager to see what would happen next. While I understood the motivations behind many of the characters' choices, I found myself less invested in the second half of the book. The change in setting and direction didn't captivate me quite as much as earlier parts of the series, and I felt some of the long-running storylines wrapped up more quickly than I had anticipated after the buildup across the trilogy.
I still enjoyed returning to these characters and appreciated seeing their journey. I'm not sure if this is the last book in the series but the storylines did seem to reach conclusion at the end. I would highly recommend this series to fans of historical fiction, family sagas, and slow-burn romance.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This is book 3 in the Maggie O’Halloran series and I believe the last in a trilogy. Whilst it could be read as a stand-alone I highly recommend reading the books in order. Maggie, her younger brother Danny and friend Brendan left Chicago and have now arrived in San Francisco in search of Maggie and Danny’s elusive father Declan.
Briefly, this time Declan is at the address he sent Maggie, a brothel in a less than salubrious area of the city. The Madam agrees to let them stay with their father in exchange for them working for her, sewing for Maggie and odd jobs for the others. But when Declan and Danny once again get themselves in trouble a new adventure beckons as they decide to go to Alaska to make their fortune in the gold rush. But Maggie now has a good job training to become a nurse and has just one day to decide whether to follow her family or stay in San Francisco.
Although Maggie retains her determination she is no longer yearning for a hat shop and is also realising that her feelings for Brendan are more than ‘just friends’ but he is no longer receptive to her and it seems she might be too late. Brendan is a lovely man, silly Maggie. I still feel like Danny needs a good slap, he’s lazy and self serving, and Declan isn’t helping, he’s very loveable but he encourages Danny’s bad behaviour. It’s a good story, an easy read and an enjoyable family drama.
Briefly, this time Declan is at the address he sent Maggie, a brothel in a less than salubrious area of the city. The Madam agrees to let them stay with their father in exchange for them working for her, sewing for Maggie and odd jobs for the others. But when Declan and Danny once again get themselves in trouble a new adventure beckons as they decide to go to Alaska to make their fortune in the gold rush. But Maggie now has a good job training to become a nurse and has just one day to decide whether to follow her family or stay in San Francisco.
Although Maggie retains her determination she is no longer yearning for a hat shop and is also realising that her feelings for Brendan are more than ‘just friends’ but he is no longer receptive to her and it seems she might be too late. Brendan is a lovely man, silly Maggie. I still feel like Danny needs a good slap, he’s lazy and self serving, and Declan isn’t helping, he’s very loveable but he encourages Danny’s bad behaviour. It’s a good story, an easy read and an enjoyable family drama.
July 27, 2026
Maggie O’Halloran, along with her brother Danny, her friend Brendan, and her brother, are tired of running after fleeing New York and Chicago. They find a boarding house in San Francisco that will take them all in, but it’s not what they want as a permanent home.
Maggie comes to realize that her calling may be nursing after she spends a night helping a doctor save the life of a young woman. Being a nurse would give her life purpose. However, when Danny gets himself into trouble again, she wonders if she should pursue her life’s calling of nursing or once again run away to Alaska for the safety of her brother.
“A New World for the Irish Daughter,” a poignant and emotionally charged tale penned by Kate Hewitt, following Maggie’s transformative journey. I find Maggie incredibly relatable, as she’s willing to go to great lengths for her family. However, it’s time for her to embark on her own path and pursue her dreams.
This captivating addition to the Maggie O’Halloran series can be enjoyed as a standalone novel or as part of the series. I highly recommend reading it as a series to delve deeper into Maggie’s backstory and gain a comprehensive understanding of her character. This inspiring story has the power to leave a lasting impact on readers, and I wholeheartedly recommend it.
Grab your copy today!! https://amazn.so/ANewWorld
Maggie comes to realize that her calling may be nursing after she spends a night helping a doctor save the life of a young woman. Being a nurse would give her life purpose. However, when Danny gets himself into trouble again, she wonders if she should pursue her life’s calling of nursing or once again run away to Alaska for the safety of her brother.
“A New World for the Irish Daughter,” a poignant and emotionally charged tale penned by Kate Hewitt, following Maggie’s transformative journey. I find Maggie incredibly relatable, as she’s willing to go to great lengths for her family. However, it’s time for her to embark on her own path and pursue her dreams.
This captivating addition to the Maggie O’Halloran series can be enjoyed as a standalone novel or as part of the series. I highly recommend reading it as a series to delve deeper into Maggie’s backstory and gain a comprehensive understanding of her character. This inspiring story has the power to leave a lasting impact on readers, and I wholeheartedly recommend it.
Grab your copy today!! https://amazn.so/ANewWorld
July 28, 2026
I’ve really enjoyed this series. Watching Maggie grow into the woman she is in this story really makes me feel like I’ve been connected to her for years, throughout her whole journey. From Ireland all the way to Alaska.
This book is about their travels west. After leaving Chicago Maggie, Danny and Brendan had to San Francisco. Arriving in San Francisco finally brings Maggie and Danny back in contact with their father, who they’ve been chasing across the US since they arrived in NYC. After only a couple of years, they’re off to Alaska.
I found that travel very interesting. I’ve never really thought about western expansion and I haven’t read much about the gold rush. Maggie was one of few women who ventured to Alaska. She’s spent so much of her time being the adult for her brother, and she ends up doing the same thing when they find her father. It was frustrating for me to read that so much responsibility was put on her shoulders.
Maggie and Brendan have gone back and forth the whole series, will they, won’t they? They even pretended to be married in Chicago. I couldn’t help holding out hope the whole time hoping for them to end up together. I like the way that Kate throws in some romance in her historical fiction stories.
Thank you NetGalley and Bookouture for my copy of this book.
This book is about their travels west. After leaving Chicago Maggie, Danny and Brendan had to San Francisco. Arriving in San Francisco finally brings Maggie and Danny back in contact with their father, who they’ve been chasing across the US since they arrived in NYC. After only a couple of years, they’re off to Alaska.
I found that travel very interesting. I’ve never really thought about western expansion and I haven’t read much about the gold rush. Maggie was one of few women who ventured to Alaska. She’s spent so much of her time being the adult for her brother, and she ends up doing the same thing when they find her father. It was frustrating for me to read that so much responsibility was put on her shoulders.
Maggie and Brendan have gone back and forth the whole series, will they, won’t they? They even pretended to be married in Chicago. I couldn’t help holding out hope the whole time hoping for them to end up together. I like the way that Kate throws in some romance in her historical fiction stories.
Thank you NetGalley and Bookouture for my copy of this book.
August 20, 2026
Maggie, Brendan and Danny are on the move again. This time they make the move to San Francisco and starting from scratch, once more, is getting old.
The only place they can afford is "interesting" to say the least, but when Maggie helps a Doctor with a young woman in trouble, her steady and calm demeanor impresses the Doctor and she asks Maggie to think about becoming a nurse.
Finding their feet is harder to do for Brendan and Danny and they eventually make the decision to go to the Yukon.
Brendan and Maggie seem to specialise in misunderstanding each other, time after time, and it started to get quite frustrating!
Anyway, I don't want to give away too much of the storyline.
This book was a solid addition to the series and I was pleased to realise that there is another book on its way :) I thought that book 3 wasn't quite as strong as the first two, there were certain aspects of the storyline that didn't achieve the emotional depth of the others. I have been quite emotionally invested in these books!
4.5 stars from me.
Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture.
The only place they can afford is "interesting" to say the least, but when Maggie helps a Doctor with a young woman in trouble, her steady and calm demeanor impresses the Doctor and she asks Maggie to think about becoming a nurse.
Finding their feet is harder to do for Brendan and Danny and they eventually make the decision to go to the Yukon.
Brendan and Maggie seem to specialise in misunderstanding each other, time after time, and it started to get quite frustrating!
Anyway, I don't want to give away too much of the storyline.
This book was a solid addition to the series and I was pleased to realise that there is another book on its way :) I thought that book 3 wasn't quite as strong as the first two, there were certain aspects of the storyline that didn't achieve the emotional depth of the others. I have been quite emotionally invested in these books!
4.5 stars from me.
Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture.
July 27, 2026
The third book in the Maggie O’Halloran series and it’s another great read. Although it’s part of a series it can easily be read as a standalone. It’s 1893 and Maggie has arrived in San Francisco with her brother Danny and her friend Brendan. They are there in the hope of finally finding her father who she believes is here somewhere. Maggie is doing her best to keep everyone’s spirits up as life hasn’t been easy for any of them. The tension between Maggie and Brendan is palpable at times and they both seem to be going around in circles with each other. When Maggie gets a chance to train as a nurse, it appears things are finally looking up for them all. However when Maggie discovers Danny is in trouble again things change and she has a difficult decision to make. I was glued to this book from the very beginning and was rooting for Maggie the whole time. There was not one single chapter that I didn’t enjoy and just wanted to keep reading after I finished each chapter. I loved all the characters and Kate Hewitt really made the story come alive with her brilliant descriptions of the characters and places. I was delighted to discover that book four in the series will be published in November and I can’t wait to read it .
August 3, 2026
A NEW WORLD FOR THE IRISH DAUGHTER is the third novel in the Maggie O’Halloran series by KATE HEWITT, and in my opinion it is the best. It is an exciting story as we follow Maggie, Brendan, Declan and Danny from San Francisco to the Yukon. The characters and their emotions are very well portrayed and the people they meet are most interesting……
After all Maggie has gone through since she and Danny left Ulster to meet her father in America, and after her dreams of greatness are shattered, she has realized what really matters in life. She has suffered so much from trying to impress people who despise her unfortunate beginnings! I like to see her courage and determination, and her unconditional love for her family and Declan, even they are difficult at times.
Brendan’s character and struggles are also well portrayed.
I highly recommend this outstanding read.
I was given a free copy of the book by NetGalley from Bookouture. The opinions in this review are completely my own.
After all Maggie has gone through since she and Danny left Ulster to meet her father in America, and after her dreams of greatness are shattered, she has realized what really matters in life. She has suffered so much from trying to impress people who despise her unfortunate beginnings! I like to see her courage and determination, and her unconditional love for her family and Declan, even they are difficult at times.
Brendan’s character and struggles are also well portrayed.
I highly recommend this outstanding read.
I was given a free copy of the book by NetGalley from Bookouture. The opinions in this review are completely my own.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I'm loving this series. I love Maggie, Brendan, and her family. They start off in California, where Maggie finally finds her calling in training to be a nurse. They finally find their father as well. Soon, Danny is in trouble again, and they set off for Alaska.
I've read and enjoyed several of the author's stories, and this series is no exception. I'm enjoying this story and seeing Maggie's growth as she grows up and finds her way in America, with her brother and Brendan's help. I love their relationship and that he would do basically anything for her. She's finding she enjoys nursing and is finally starting to grow up. Of course, her brother Danny continues to find himself in trouble, and I hope he will finally grow up. I'm excited to learn that there will be more books in the series, and I can continue to follow Maggie's growth.
Thanks to @netgalley, @bookouture, and the author for this arc.
I've read and enjoyed several of the author's stories, and this series is no exception. I'm enjoying this story and seeing Maggie's growth as she grows up and finds her way in America, with her brother and Brendan's help. I love their relationship and that he would do basically anything for her. She's finding she enjoys nursing and is finally starting to grow up. Of course, her brother Danny continues to find himself in trouble, and I hope he will finally grow up. I'm excited to learn that there will be more books in the series, and I can continue to follow Maggie's growth.
Thanks to @netgalley, @bookouture, and the author for this arc.
July 28, 2026
Maggie O’Halloran and her brother, Danny and her friend Brendan continue making their way west. Now in book three, A New World for the Irish Daughter by Kate Hewitt, they are in California. Finding their father, they find work and a place to stay. Then Maggie begins to feel pulled in the direction of a much needed career, which is rare for women at this time in history. The men in Maggie’s family still have some work to do in their lives, with Maggie also maturing as the story continues. With surprises and adventure, the story does not have them settled in San Francisco. Just when I think I know what this family will do and adventure entices them to continue moving again. So much happens in this book that it could probably be read as a stand-alone book. However, I am glad that I have read all three books in order.
July 29, 2026
Maggie, Brendan, and Danny find themselves in San Francisco. They’re also introduced to the seedy side of the West Coast.
I was annoyed at the main characters for most of the book: Maggie for figuring out who she finally wanted but now it was seemingly too late and her father and brother mostly lounging about avoiding work as much as possible.
My heart went out to Brendan and I couldn’t fault him for his withdrawal.
There is a lot of grittiness and excitement especially with the relocation up to Alaska,
Finally it all comes together and the two ships that always passed in the night dock in the same slip.
Thanks NetGalley and Bookouture for the early read.
I was annoyed at the main characters for most of the book: Maggie for figuring out who she finally wanted but now it was seemingly too late and her father and brother mostly lounging about avoiding work as much as possible.
My heart went out to Brendan and I couldn’t fault him for his withdrawal.
There is a lot of grittiness and excitement especially with the relocation up to Alaska,
Finally it all comes together and the two ships that always passed in the night dock in the same slip.
Thanks NetGalley and Bookouture for the early read.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This 3rd book of the trilogy provided a satisfying and happy ending for Maggie and her world. At one point, I became a little frustrated at a major decision that she made, but once I got past that, I was able to move on and allow myself to enjoy the rest of the book.
While it's possible to read this as a standalone, I recommend reading the first two books in the series before reading this one. It is good for fans of historical fiction featuring a strong female lead. Thank you to the author, the publisher, and NetGalley for an advance e-reader copy of this book.
While it's possible to read this as a standalone, I recommend reading the first two books in the series before reading this one. It is good for fans of historical fiction featuring a strong female lead. Thank you to the author, the publisher, and NetGalley for an advance e-reader copy of this book.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Another great instalment in Maggie’s story.
I’ve loved this series. In addition to being an engrossing read with characters you care about, it’s a brilliant look at the history of the times and places where it’s set.
With Maggie we’ve experienced the harness of immigrant New York, had a ring side seat at the 1893 Worlds Exposition in Chicago, experienced life in San Francisco during the California gold rush and even ventured to Alaska.
A fabulous series that, although could possibly end here, I really hope it doesn’t, as I’d love to see what happens next to Maggie and her family.
I’ve loved this series. In addition to being an engrossing read with characters you care about, it’s a brilliant look at the history of the times and places where it’s set.
With Maggie we’ve experienced the harness of immigrant New York, had a ring side seat at the 1893 Worlds Exposition in Chicago, experienced life in San Francisco during the California gold rush and even ventured to Alaska.
A fabulous series that, although could possibly end here, I really hope it doesn’t, as I’d love to see what happens next to Maggie and her family.
October 2, 2026
Have thoroughly enjoyed this series! My first books from this author and will definitely read more.
I found some of the events in this one didn't flow naturally. All the characters made some stupid decisions but at least there is character growth. Personally I wished the romance had gone a different way but if you like yearning you'll like this.
I thought this was better than the second one but not as good as the first. But they are all good and very easy to read.
My hearty thanks to NetGalley for the advance ebook copy.
I found some of the events in this one didn't flow naturally. All the characters made some stupid decisions but at least there is character growth. Personally I wished the romance had gone a different way but if you like yearning you'll like this.
I thought this was better than the second one but not as good as the first. But they are all good and very easy to read.
My hearty thanks to NetGalley for the advance ebook copy.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Great to be able to catch with Maggie, Brendon and Danny after the move across country to San Francisco to finally find her father. Lots of adventures to come, decisions to make and lots of challenges to come.. Hope we will have another instalment to this lovely set of books.
My thanks as always to NetGalley and Publisher Bookouture.
My thanks as always to NetGalley and Publisher Bookouture.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This ist he 3rd book in the Maggie O’Halloran series. It was lovely to catch up with with Maggie, Brendan and Danny after having had to pack up and start anew once more. This series is very well written – full with adventures and opportunties that make you wonder if they will ever find the place where they belong.
Thank you to Bookouture, Kate Hewitt and NetGalley for this ARC!
Thank you to Bookouture, Kate Hewitt and NetGalley for this ARC!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Book three of the Maggie O'Halloran series is the one that I liked the most. Reuniting her family in California, Maggie hopes to start over but things quickly change as her brother and father go to Alaska to join others to find gold. A history of Alaska and that time period is interesting. A good way to end the series.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
4.5 stars rounded up.
Another memorable, atmospheric, informative and engaging read from Kate Hewitt and a great addition to this series. I think there's another book to come? I hope so!
The author's vivid descriptions set the scene perfectly and there are so many historical tidbits sprinkled throughout that made me stop and think or sent me off to Google. The story, set in the 1880s USA, feels authentic to the era and showcases the contrast of poverty and wealth while also exploring the societal expectations and inequality of the time with women being frowned upon for wanting a career, the danger of being a woman on her own. I love where this novel takes the characters and I felt every emotion and hardship of that journey. There's great character growth and the characters feel so real. I'll miss them when the series comes to an end.
I've enjoyed following Maggie and Brendan, but I do get exasperated with Maggie's quick temper and, at one point, I wanted to knock Brendan and Maggie's heads together - that's a sure sign that the author has me completely invested in the story!
I've read this entire series and while each of these novels can be read as standalone, I highly recommend you read them all to get the full experience and the history that is woven into these stories. New characters are introduced in each novel, but previous characters also reappear, so make sure you read them in order.
Thank you to NetGalley, Bookouture and Kate Hewitt for the digital ARC. My review is voluntary, and all opinions are my own.
Another memorable, atmospheric, informative and engaging read from Kate Hewitt and a great addition to this series. I think there's another book to come? I hope so!
The author's vivid descriptions set the scene perfectly and there are so many historical tidbits sprinkled throughout that made me stop and think or sent me off to Google. The story, set in the 1880s USA, feels authentic to the era and showcases the contrast of poverty and wealth while also exploring the societal expectations and inequality of the time with women being frowned upon for wanting a career, the danger of being a woman on her own. I love where this novel takes the characters and I felt every emotion and hardship of that journey. There's great character growth and the characters feel so real. I'll miss them when the series comes to an end.
I've enjoyed following Maggie and Brendan, but I do get exasperated with Maggie's quick temper and, at one point, I wanted to knock Brendan and Maggie's heads together - that's a sure sign that the author has me completely invested in the story!
I've read this entire series and while each of these novels can be read as standalone, I highly recommend you read them all to get the full experience and the history that is woven into these stories. New characters are introduced in each novel, but previous characters also reappear, so make sure you read them in order.
Thank you to NetGalley, Bookouture and Kate Hewitt for the digital ARC. My review is voluntary, and all opinions are my own.
August 21, 2026
Five stars
Wow! This was a book that I had to finish in one day. I hadn't read the first two books in this series but it covered enough of them that I was able to slip right into the story line. Kate Hewitt delivered a great story and I definitely enjoyed reading the exciting adventures in Alaska during the gold rush. Very well written! I highly recommend this book.
Wow! This was a book that I had to finish in one day. I hadn't read the first two books in this series but it covered enough of them that I was able to slip right into the story line. Kate Hewitt delivered a great story and I definitely enjoyed reading the exciting adventures in Alaska during the gold rush. Very well written! I highly recommend this book.
July 18, 2026
Thank you NetGalley for the ARC! A New World For The Irish Daughter is the final novel in this trilogy written by Kate Hewitt. In this instalment, we see Maggie gain more confidence in herself and follow new dreams. Though her family life is, as usual, less than ideal she loves her father and brother just the same. He complicated relationship with Brendan takes her on a journey to decide what she really wants out of life. The voyage this time takes Maggie out west then to the great white north of Alaska and the Klondike. Overall, a good story with many adventures but what Maggie finds in the end is a peace she had been looking for since her first steps in American soil.
July 29, 2026
Gripping
Just fantastic. I fell in love with Maggie in Book 1 and have watched her grow and mature. This book she finally matures and grows into the understanding of her heart. I just wanted to shout, it's about time Maggie Girl.
Just fantastic. I fell in love with Maggie in Book 1 and have watched her grow and mature. This book she finally matures and grows into the understanding of her heart. I just wanted to shout, it's about time Maggie Girl.
August 5, 2026
After fleeing some places will Maggie now find happiness at a place she could call home with the man she loves?
Enjoyable series to read.
Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for the opportunity to read and review this story.
Enjoyable series to read.
Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for the opportunity to read and review this story.
October 3, 2026
I love the Maggie O’Halloren series!
Maggie herself is such a strong character who clearly just wants what is best for her family, even if that isn’t best for her.
I am early awaiting the next book in the series!
4 stars out of 5 ⭐️
Maggie herself is such a strong character who clearly just wants what is best for her family, even if that isn’t best for her.
I am early awaiting the next book in the series!
4 stars out of 5 ⭐️
August 4, 2026
Book 3 of 3 - I suggest reading this series in order. It takes place in the late 1800's in San Francisco. Well researched. I highly recommend it.
August 8, 2026
Looking forward to book 4
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