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It Was Only Ever You: A glamorous historical romance
This is the story of three women and one charismatic man. A glamorous historical romance, perfect for fans of Maeve Binchy.
It is 1950s New York, the time of dance halls, swing bands and the beginning of rock and roll. In The Emerald, Ava Brogan dances the night away, knowing that she will never be pretty like the other Irish girls there, wishing her mother wouldn't keep plotting to find her a husband.
Here, too, Sheila Klein, Holocaust orphan, dreams of finding a star and making her name in the music industry. Tough and cynical, she has never let her heart be broken by any man.
Enter Patrick Murphy, with a sublime voice, a hit song in his back pocket and charisma to burn. Ava and Sheila's worlds are about to be turned upside down. They do not know that Patrick's first great love from Ireland is on her way to New York – determined to find and get her man at all costs. Beautiful Rose is used to getting what she wants in life and that's not about to change anytime soon.
It is 1950s New York, the time of dance halls, swing bands and the beginning of rock and roll. In The Emerald, Ava Brogan dances the night away, knowing that she will never be pretty like the other Irish girls there, wishing her mother wouldn't keep plotting to find her a husband.
Here, too, Sheila Klein, Holocaust orphan, dreams of finding a star and making her name in the music industry. Tough and cynical, she has never let her heart be broken by any man.
Enter Patrick Murphy, with a sublime voice, a hit song in his back pocket and charisma to burn. Ava and Sheila's worlds are about to be turned upside down. They do not know that Patrick's first great love from Ireland is on her way to New York – determined to find and get her man at all costs. Beautiful Rose is used to getting what she wants in life and that's not about to change anytime soon.
342 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 6, 2016
40 people are currently reading
291 people want to read
About the author
Kate Kerrigan
32 books244 followersKate Kerrigan is an author living and working in Ireland. Her novels are Recipes for a Perfect Marriage, The Miracle of Grace, Ellis Island, City of Hope, Land of Dreams and The Lost Garden.
Kate began her career as an editor and journalist, editing many of Britain’s most successful young women’s magazines before returning to her native Ireland in the 1990’s to edit Irish Tatler. She writes a weekly column in the Irish Mail about her life in Killala, County Mayo – and contributes regularly to RTE's radio's Sunday Miscellany.
Her novel, The Dress, published by Head of Zeus was shortlisted at the Irish Book Awards in 2015, and her new novel, It Was Only Ever You, was published in hardback edition, October 2016.
www.katekerrigan.ie
I devoured this book in one sitting. I LOVED it!
Marian Keyes
This story is written with so much heart you can hear its beat and feel its pulse in every word on every page.
Cecelia Ahern
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 42 reviews
July 25, 2017
Heartwarming, impassioned, and alluring!
This is a compelling story about first loves, friendship, community, goals, dreams, family and music that is set during the late 1950s when New York was a melting pot of immigrants and Manhattan was the hub of the American music industry.
There are four main memorable characters in this novel; Rose, a young Irish lass who leaves comfort and security behind in hopes of finding her first love; Ava, a woman with insecurities but a lot of heart; Sheila a Jewish orphan who has lots of spunk, tenacity and grit; and Danny, the dark-haired, blue-eyed small-town lad who turns all their heads with his angelic voice.
The writing is vivid and sincere. The supporting characters are multi-layered, unique, and true to character. And the plot is a wonderful mix of passion, drama, character development and emotion.
Overall this is an extremely engaging, memorable, enjoyable read that does a remarkable job of interweaving historical facts, fiction, and romance.
Thank you to Head of Zeus for providing me with a copy in exchange for an honest review.
All my reviews can be found on my blog at http://whatsbetterthanbooks.com
This is a compelling story about first loves, friendship, community, goals, dreams, family and music that is set during the late 1950s when New York was a melting pot of immigrants and Manhattan was the hub of the American music industry.
There are four main memorable characters in this novel; Rose, a young Irish lass who leaves comfort and security behind in hopes of finding her first love; Ava, a woman with insecurities but a lot of heart; Sheila a Jewish orphan who has lots of spunk, tenacity and grit; and Danny, the dark-haired, blue-eyed small-town lad who turns all their heads with his angelic voice.
The writing is vivid and sincere. The supporting characters are multi-layered, unique, and true to character. And the plot is a wonderful mix of passion, drama, character development and emotion.
Overall this is an extremely engaging, memorable, enjoyable read that does a remarkable job of interweaving historical facts, fiction, and romance.
Thank you to Head of Zeus for providing me with a copy in exchange for an honest review.
All my reviews can be found on my blog at http://whatsbetterthanbooks.com
October 27, 2016
Late 1950’s Ireland and New York plays the backdrop to a book I would label my favourite romance of the year, which is Kate Kerrigan’s latest novel, It Was Only Ever You.
Patrick Murphy is at the front and centre of It Was Only Ever You. Patrick is a young man with an incredible talent, who vows to make it big one day as a professional singer. Patrick is in love with a doctor’s daughter and aspiring artist named Rose however, their love is doomed from the start, as they come from completely different backgrounds. It is a love that will eventually take Patrick away from his homeland in Ireland, to the bright lights of New York city, where opportunity and a new love awaits.
After reading Kate Kerrigan’s last novel, The Dress, I immediately declared myself a firm fan of Kerrigan’s work. Now that I have finished reading her latest novel, It Was Only Ever You, I will say that I absolutely adored this book – even more than The Dress. It is such a wonderfully crafted book, that for me it earns the title of the best romance book of the year. Kerrigan works hard at the opening of the novel to set her scene in 1950’s Ireland. I felt a strong and immediate sense of place, which also extended to Kerrigan’s depiction of the societal attitudes of the time. Kerrigan uses this as an opportunity to show the reader the extent of the class divide in Ireland, as well as the lure of greater opportunities abroad. This is where New York comes into the picture, which is also described in picture perfect detail. I loved that this book had a strong music based theme grounding it. The opportunity to become immersed in 1950’s rock and roll, as well as popular Irish ballads was fantastic. Kerrigan’s research into the music of the times is clearly evident, as it runs throughout the storyline.
Characters are also a joy to connect with in It Was Only Ever You. Patrick, the lead protagonist, is cast perfectly as the charismatic Irish boy from a lower class background, who also gets embroiled in the lives of three very different women. The three women, Rose, Ava and Shelia, all play a part in Patrick’s life as the narrative progresses. Rose, Ava and Shelia are all equally interesting characters, with their own back stories to match. I found each of them likeable and very much appreciated that they had their own flaws. At many points of the novel it was hard to decide with which character you sympathies should lie.
It Was Only Ever You is a book that I definitely could not put down and when I was eventually forced to, I couldn’t wait to get back into the story. I firmly believe this is a sign of Kerrigan’s evocative storytelling ability, it is very easy to get lost in her writing. The finale of It Was Only Ever You has got to be one of the most beautiful and poignant endings to a novel I have read for some time. I am sure it will stay with me long after finishing the book.
It Was Only Ever You is a memorable tale, packed with love, loss, dreams and most importantly, the passion of music. It features a cast of endearing characters, who will be sure to occupy a space in your heart. Highly romantic, I recommend this book highly – five stars.
*I wish to thank Beauty and Lace for providing a copy of this book for review purposes.
Patrick Murphy is at the front and centre of It Was Only Ever You. Patrick is a young man with an incredible talent, who vows to make it big one day as a professional singer. Patrick is in love with a doctor’s daughter and aspiring artist named Rose however, their love is doomed from the start, as they come from completely different backgrounds. It is a love that will eventually take Patrick away from his homeland in Ireland, to the bright lights of New York city, where opportunity and a new love awaits.
After reading Kate Kerrigan’s last novel, The Dress, I immediately declared myself a firm fan of Kerrigan’s work. Now that I have finished reading her latest novel, It Was Only Ever You, I will say that I absolutely adored this book – even more than The Dress. It is such a wonderfully crafted book, that for me it earns the title of the best romance book of the year. Kerrigan works hard at the opening of the novel to set her scene in 1950’s Ireland. I felt a strong and immediate sense of place, which also extended to Kerrigan’s depiction of the societal attitudes of the time. Kerrigan uses this as an opportunity to show the reader the extent of the class divide in Ireland, as well as the lure of greater opportunities abroad. This is where New York comes into the picture, which is also described in picture perfect detail. I loved that this book had a strong music based theme grounding it. The opportunity to become immersed in 1950’s rock and roll, as well as popular Irish ballads was fantastic. Kerrigan’s research into the music of the times is clearly evident, as it runs throughout the storyline.
Characters are also a joy to connect with in It Was Only Ever You. Patrick, the lead protagonist, is cast perfectly as the charismatic Irish boy from a lower class background, who also gets embroiled in the lives of three very different women. The three women, Rose, Ava and Shelia, all play a part in Patrick’s life as the narrative progresses. Rose, Ava and Shelia are all equally interesting characters, with their own back stories to match. I found each of them likeable and very much appreciated that they had their own flaws. At many points of the novel it was hard to decide with which character you sympathies should lie.
It Was Only Ever You is a book that I definitely could not put down and when I was eventually forced to, I couldn’t wait to get back into the story. I firmly believe this is a sign of Kerrigan’s evocative storytelling ability, it is very easy to get lost in her writing. The finale of It Was Only Ever You has got to be one of the most beautiful and poignant endings to a novel I have read for some time. I am sure it will stay with me long after finishing the book.
It Was Only Ever You is a memorable tale, packed with love, loss, dreams and most importantly, the passion of music. It features a cast of endearing characters, who will be sure to occupy a space in your heart. Highly romantic, I recommend this book highly – five stars.
*I wish to thank Beauty and Lace for providing a copy of this book for review purposes.
March 16, 2020
I think one of the reasons for me liking this book so much is because I really liked the women in this book, or rather two of them, Ava and Sheila. Rose was a bit harder to like, although, in the end, I did find myself warming up to her.
It Was Only Ever You is such an interesting story about three very different women who end up playing very important roles in Patrick Murphy's life. We have Rose, his sweetheart in Ireland, Ava, the warmhearted woman with low self-esteem who falls for him despite being engaged to another man and the self-assured Sheila who is hellbent on turning Patrick into a star.
For me was Patrick not the star of the book, he was the thing that connected the woman, but what I found interesting was the period, the life of the women and their struggle. I found myself totally fascinated with each of the women's journeys (yes even Rose's now and then), although there were some parts that made me roll my eyes mentally, mostly when Rose took the center in the story. But, even Rose would in the end, as I mentioned, grew on me. And, even though it was not the ending I wanted, I still liked how Kate Kerrigan decided to end the book.
It Was Only Ever You is an intriguing book, with many strong women in focus. I quite liked the book and I'm looking forward to reading more from Kate Kerrigan!
I want to thank the publisher for providing me with a free copy through NetGalley for an honest review!
It Was Only Ever You is such an interesting story about three very different women who end up playing very important roles in Patrick Murphy's life. We have Rose, his sweetheart in Ireland, Ava, the warmhearted woman with low self-esteem who falls for him despite being engaged to another man and the self-assured Sheila who is hellbent on turning Patrick into a star.
For me was Patrick not the star of the book, he was the thing that connected the woman, but what I found interesting was the period, the life of the women and their struggle. I found myself totally fascinated with each of the women's journeys (yes even Rose's now and then), although there were some parts that made me roll my eyes mentally, mostly when Rose took the center in the story. But, even Rose would in the end, as I mentioned, grew on me. And, even though it was not the ending I wanted, I still liked how Kate Kerrigan decided to end the book.
It Was Only Ever You is an intriguing book, with many strong women in focus. I quite liked the book and I'm looking forward to reading more from Kate Kerrigan!
I want to thank the publisher for providing me with a free copy through NetGalley for an honest review!
August 11, 2017
IT WAS ONLY EVER YOU by Kate Kerrigan is a powerful and beautiful tale of love, life, and finding what you need in this world.
Set in the 1950s the story moves from Ireland to New York where Patrick Murphy is hoping to make his dream of singing become a reality. A man that oozes charm, kindness, and charisma, Patrick draws women to him like moths to a flame, and when he doesn't hear any word from his young first love, Rose, who is back in Ireland, he believes that things have changed.
In New York, we meet Ava and Sheila, two very different characters who have a lot in common - strength and determination to live their lives on their terms in a society that wants a woman to know her place. And as their paths collide with Patrick's it will change them irrevocably in ways that they could never dream of. And then there is the fact that Rose is coming to New York determined to find her man...
With music at the forefront throughout this alluring novel, it is no surprise that there is a lyrical quality in Kate Kerrigan's writing, and I found myself swept away with the beat on every page. The characters are appealing and really make you care, and I loved learning more about the music and Irish immigrant scene that was bursting with life in Manhattan at that time.
IT WAS ONLY EVER YOU is a dramatic and all-consuming story about relationships in all of its forms, and as always with books written by the wonderful Kate Kerrigan, it played with my heart strings all the way through. A stunning story that would be perfect on the silver screen, and one you should not miss out on.
*I voluntarily reviewed this book from the Publisher
Set in the 1950s the story moves from Ireland to New York where Patrick Murphy is hoping to make his dream of singing become a reality. A man that oozes charm, kindness, and charisma, Patrick draws women to him like moths to a flame, and when he doesn't hear any word from his young first love, Rose, who is back in Ireland, he believes that things have changed.
In New York, we meet Ava and Sheila, two very different characters who have a lot in common - strength and determination to live their lives on their terms in a society that wants a woman to know her place. And as their paths collide with Patrick's it will change them irrevocably in ways that they could never dream of. And then there is the fact that Rose is coming to New York determined to find her man...
With music at the forefront throughout this alluring novel, it is no surprise that there is a lyrical quality in Kate Kerrigan's writing, and I found myself swept away with the beat on every page. The characters are appealing and really make you care, and I loved learning more about the music and Irish immigrant scene that was bursting with life in Manhattan at that time.
IT WAS ONLY EVER YOU is a dramatic and all-consuming story about relationships in all of its forms, and as always with books written by the wonderful Kate Kerrigan, it played with my heart strings all the way through. A stunning story that would be perfect on the silver screen, and one you should not miss out on.
*I voluntarily reviewed this book from the Publisher
July 27, 2017
Originally posted on This Chick Reads
It Was Only Ever You is the first book by Kate Kerrigan and I've been so excited about checking it out, especially as it has won the RNA 2017 Historical Novel of the Year Award. Now that I've read it, I can say it definitely won't be my last one by this author. It Was Only Ever You is a charming tale of love, soul mates and music and I devoured it in a day.
The story is set in set in a small village, Foxford in Ireland and New York during the 1950s, the time when rock and roll was just starting to enter the clubs. There are four main characters, something I would usually find overwhelming, however Kate's beautiful writing style and portraying of her characters made the reading experience so much easier and enjoyable. Of course, there are many more characters in the book, for some there might even be too much to follow, however I had no problems with this. They were all so diverse and each of them added to the story. The main characters are Patrick, Rose, Ava and Sheila and in the book we get to see a bit of each perspective. The book opens in 1941 and we see Sheila living with her aunt and uncle in the States because of the war. She just found out her parents and brother have been killed by the Nazis and at 14 years old, she really does her best to digest this horrible information. Fast forward 17 years, Sheila is a strong independent woman in her 30s, who's trying to make it into a 'men's world' by becoming a music manager. As we follow her attempts at finding a new talent to work with and get into some of the clubs and dance rooms, we get to really feel her determination and strong will. Patrick and Rose live in a small Irish village, Foxford. Patrick has a beautiful voice and charming looks. He's in his mid 20s and can have any girl he wants. However, he's not arrogant, on the contrary, he's very down to earth when it comes to both his singing talent and looks. Rosa is just finishing school and is the daughter of a well known doctor. She's also Patrick's sister best friend and seems to have blossomed into a gorgeous young lady over night. Rosa and Patrick fall in love with each other however Rosa knows her family (pragmatical Dad and snobbish mum) would not approve of plain, artistic Patrick. After a series of events (which I won't reveal much about as I don't want to spoil the book for you), Patrick arrives in America, the land where all dreams come true. Some dreams do come true for him, alright, yet some are shattered to pieces.
Ava is the daughter of an influential Irish immigrant. She's well mannered however very self-conscious. She loves dancing and is a regular at one of the dance rooms. Her life is forever changed when she meets the young, dashing Irish singer, Patrick. Through love, pain and tears all of these four main characters learn about life and their biggest passion - music. It's their love and passion for music which intertwines their stories and which plays a huge role in the book.
What I loved the most is how through Kate's beautiful writing and descriptions I was transported in a completely different era, in the 1950s, seeing and feeling the glamour, the fashion, the music genre which was just emerging. I haven't read a book (at least not recently) where music plays such an important role and I absolutely love how Kate managed to transport me in this time of our history, a time when I wasn't even born. I could close my eyes and see the big dance rooms (or ball rooms), the musicians on stage, the glamorous couples dancing. As someone who loves the 1950s and 1960s this was truly a great enjoyment. It's obvious the author did her research well on the life in the States during this period of history and the music industry at the time.
However, this book is not just about music It's a romance book and there are some very complex relationships to follow. Even the blurb implies there's a love triangle, so do have this in mind when you pick up this book (as I know many readers don't like this). There's also insta love, and I have to say I was slightly bothered by this, but then again..it was 1950s...a completely different type of dating (courting) and some very different social/cultural conditions. While there were some scenes that melted my heart, there were some that left me a bit confused and puzzled. The characters felt a bit over the top in the second part of the book, it seemed like they were all overreacting or reacting rather different to what we now consider 'normal/usual'. There was loads of drama (sometimes unnecessary) and there were so many stuff happening I was really trying hard to keep track. While I absolutely adored the first half of the book, the second one felt a bit confusing which is the only reason why I'm not giving this book a higher rating.
Overall, this was an enjoyable romantic read and I'll definitely be reading more by this author. I'm fascinated with Irish fiction and authors and I'm glad I've discovered another great Irish author. From Mayo County, Ireland to New York, in the 1950s, Kate takes us into the dance rooms full of glamour and charm. A time when rock and roll was just emerging, when culture was going through a rapid change, through the stories of Patrick, Rose, Ava and Sheila we get to really feel a bit of that 1950s glamour. If you're looking for a charming romantic read you'll devour in a day, this is definitely the book for you.
July 6, 2017
1950's Ireland .. I love books set in olden days time era. That always pulls me in right off, love the cover, Love this story, I am new to Kate Kerrigan's writing, I am hooked & I can not wait to read more from Kate very very soon. I love the dialogue, the characters .. such a fun quick read for me. Loved it!! ( :
July 30, 2017
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In It Was Only Ever You, the author has created three distinctive female characters. I loved Ava who, in her ‘lucky suit’, made me think of the young Lauren Bacall in To Have and Have Not. To me she was the most fully realised female character and the one I found myself most engaged with and who I rooted for most. I also liked how, in Sheila, the author created a picture of a strong, independent woman, not afraid to challenge society’s expectations and break through into an industry dominated by men. (I pictured her as Celeste Holm in Gentleman’s Agreement). Beautiful, beloved Rose was the character I felt least drawn to, although I’m not sure quite why. Perhaps it was her cool, perfect beauty (which if we’re indulging in film star comparisons can only be to a young Grace Kelly) or the fact she was the catalyst for so many of the dramatic events in the book.
Alongside these three strong female characters, Patrick Murphy has a tough job to gain the reader’s attention and sympathies. He’s handsome, charming and the author does a great job of communicating how his wonderful voice is so attractive to women. However, he’s also rather naive and his poor choices will set in train unintended and tragic consequences.
Perhaps surprisingly, because he is not at first sight that attractive a figure, the male character I really engaged with was Iggy Morrow, the music impresario. I felt the author created a really believable character and his journey from loner to someone prepared to make a commitment to another person for the first time in his life was credible and rather moving.
Amongst many other compelling aspects of this book is the evocation of the New York of the period with its dance halls, jazz clubs, show bands and the advent of the sound that would revolutionize the music scene – rock’n’roll.
‘But with this new, strange rockabilly sound [Sheila] found her hips were swaying from side to side at a speed that felt fast – too fast – and yet she was compelled to move in a way that felt utterly natural. It was as if the beat had injected her, and everyone else there, with a kind of electricity. Her body seemed to understand what to do in a way it had never done before now.’
If that doesn’t make you want to listen to ‘Rock Around the Clock’ I don’t know what will! Similarly, I loved the picture of the tight-knit Irish émigré community, where everyone knows one another – making subsequent events entirely believable.
The author gives us tantalising hints about some of the characters’ earlier lives. I’m curious – and greedy – so I would have loved more about the back stories of Rose, Sheila and Rose’s mother, Eleanor. For example – no spoilers, as these facts are revealed in the opening chapters of the book – information about Rose’s biological parents, more detail about what happened to Sheila’s family and what in Eleanor’s past made her so fearful for her daughter.
The book ended satisfyingly for me with two of the three women being rewarded precisely in the way I’d hoped for and the third getting just what she deserved. I’ll leave you to read the book and work out what I mean and which is which!
It Was Only Ever You takes the reader on a wonderful journey from rural Ireland to the excitement of New York. There is love and drama and sadness, there are partings and reunions, all set against the backdrop of the sheer joy of music.
I received a review copy courtesy of publishers Head of Zeus in return for an honest and unbiased review.
In It Was Only Ever You, the author has created three distinctive female characters. I loved Ava who, in her ‘lucky suit’, made me think of the young Lauren Bacall in To Have and Have Not. To me she was the most fully realised female character and the one I found myself most engaged with and who I rooted for most. I also liked how, in Sheila, the author created a picture of a strong, independent woman, not afraid to challenge society’s expectations and break through into an industry dominated by men. (I pictured her as Celeste Holm in Gentleman’s Agreement). Beautiful, beloved Rose was the character I felt least drawn to, although I’m not sure quite why. Perhaps it was her cool, perfect beauty (which if we’re indulging in film star comparisons can only be to a young Grace Kelly) or the fact she was the catalyst for so many of the dramatic events in the book.
Alongside these three strong female characters, Patrick Murphy has a tough job to gain the reader’s attention and sympathies. He’s handsome, charming and the author does a great job of communicating how his wonderful voice is so attractive to women. However, he’s also rather naive and his poor choices will set in train unintended and tragic consequences.
Perhaps surprisingly, because he is not at first sight that attractive a figure, the male character I really engaged with was Iggy Morrow, the music impresario. I felt the author created a really believable character and his journey from loner to someone prepared to make a commitment to another person for the first time in his life was credible and rather moving.
Amongst many other compelling aspects of this book is the evocation of the New York of the period with its dance halls, jazz clubs, show bands and the advent of the sound that would revolutionize the music scene – rock’n’roll.
‘But with this new, strange rockabilly sound [Sheila] found her hips were swaying from side to side at a speed that felt fast – too fast – and yet she was compelled to move in a way that felt utterly natural. It was as if the beat had injected her, and everyone else there, with a kind of electricity. Her body seemed to understand what to do in a way it had never done before now.’
If that doesn’t make you want to listen to ‘Rock Around the Clock’ I don’t know what will! Similarly, I loved the picture of the tight-knit Irish émigré community, where everyone knows one another – making subsequent events entirely believable.
The author gives us tantalising hints about some of the characters’ earlier lives. I’m curious – and greedy – so I would have loved more about the back stories of Rose, Sheila and Rose’s mother, Eleanor. For example – no spoilers, as these facts are revealed in the opening chapters of the book – information about Rose’s biological parents, more detail about what happened to Sheila’s family and what in Eleanor’s past made her so fearful for her daughter.
The book ended satisfyingly for me with two of the three women being rewarded precisely in the way I’d hoped for and the third getting just what she deserved. I’ll leave you to read the book and work out what I mean and which is which!
It Was Only Ever You takes the reader on a wonderful journey from rural Ireland to the excitement of New York. There is love and drama and sadness, there are partings and reunions, all set against the backdrop of the sheer joy of music.
I received a review copy courtesy of publishers Head of Zeus in return for an honest and unbiased review.
October 12, 2017
Staring off, the story felt a bit disjointed as it begins with a Holocaust survivor and their struggles and then we find ourselves in County Mayo where we meet a charismatic, handsome and talented Patrick, determined to make his mark on the world as a singer. He’s exciting and different from most, and that is one of the reasons that Rose, a renowned beauty, is in love with him. These two are destined to fail as a couple from the start, since neither is prone to thought or examination of motives, and this makes them far too easily manipulated. With the end of this relationship, Patrick is off to New York seeking fortune and fame.
In New York, Patrick’s desires for love bring him to Ava: wealthy and clever, but not a beauty. His eyes and future are guided by yet another woman, Sheila, who is determined to make every move necessary to have him, and make his dreams of fame and fortune come true. Of course, even with her own issues and the ocean between them, Rose isn’t willing to let the hope for her love with Patrick go.
Confused yet? I was. And it wasn’t helped by the lack of actual build to the characters that was more than stereotype. From the women who were obsessed with ‘winning’ the man, one upping one another and appearing to be willing to do anything to get a win, they were tiring, and I found myself uninterested in the relationship that they each purported to have with Patrick. For his part, Patrick seemed to find himself without the ability to control his heart: an immaturity issue that seemed to be the overriding personality trait of an otherwise flat character. Descriptions of sights, sounds, clothing and setting were wonderful, but even that couldn’t bring me to make the comparisons held in the synopsis of this title. Sadly, this was a miss for me because of the characters that were all too familiar and flat in their construct.
I received an eArc copy of the title from the publisher via NetGalley for purpose of honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility.
Review first appeared at I am, Indeed
In New York, Patrick’s desires for love bring him to Ava: wealthy and clever, but not a beauty. His eyes and future are guided by yet another woman, Sheila, who is determined to make every move necessary to have him, and make his dreams of fame and fortune come true. Of course, even with her own issues and the ocean between them, Rose isn’t willing to let the hope for her love with Patrick go.
Confused yet? I was. And it wasn’t helped by the lack of actual build to the characters that was more than stereotype. From the women who were obsessed with ‘winning’ the man, one upping one another and appearing to be willing to do anything to get a win, they were tiring, and I found myself uninterested in the relationship that they each purported to have with Patrick. For his part, Patrick seemed to find himself without the ability to control his heart: an immaturity issue that seemed to be the overriding personality trait of an otherwise flat character. Descriptions of sights, sounds, clothing and setting were wonderful, but even that couldn’t bring me to make the comparisons held in the synopsis of this title. Sadly, this was a miss for me because of the characters that were all too familiar and flat in their construct.
I received an eArc copy of the title from the publisher via NetGalley for purpose of honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility.
Review first appeared at I am, Indeed
October 22, 2016
1950s Ireland. Rose and Patrick have to hide their love for each other as they are from two different classes. Patrick, a talented singer, heads for the bright lights of New York and Rose is devastated.In New York, Ava dreams of finding love in the dance halls of the Big Apple where she dances her way to happiness. Sheila, dreams of managing the biggest rock and roll acts in the USA and encounters the sexist world of the music industry. The Emerald Ballroom is where New Yorkers go to dance their worries away. Will it be enough for these young music lovers or will rocking around the clock lead to heartbreak?
From the author of The Dress, comes a tale of music, love and new beginnings. Kate Kerrigan's eighth novel is alive with the sound of jazz, ballads and rock and roll. 1950s New York is awash with new talent and high fashion. Women still dream of finding the perfect husband and men still get away with murder. When Patrick leaves his family behind in Co. Mayo, he also leaves a part of his heart. Rose is devastated and will do anything to find him. Ava seems destined to marry a nice, sensible New Yorker and to bid farewell to the dance halls she loves. Sheila grieves for the family she lost at Hitler's hands and struggles to find her place in the world. The only thing that they all have in common is their love of music. Told with melodic simplicity, their stories become intertwined in their quest for happiness. But somewhere along the line, hearts will be broken.
This is the ideal read for lovers of Historical Fiction and is perfectly timed for the Christmas market. More suitable for an older audience, I would think, with it's gentle narrative and endearing characters. The dance halls hop off the page, with their smoky dance floors, jiving customers and sassy staff. You can almost hear the music and envision the ladies popping off to powder their noses. These women are living in a man's world yet are determined to make the most of it. A classic love story with a musical twist. Time to dust of your dancing shoes and grab the rouge...
From the author of The Dress, comes a tale of music, love and new beginnings. Kate Kerrigan's eighth novel is alive with the sound of jazz, ballads and rock and roll. 1950s New York is awash with new talent and high fashion. Women still dream of finding the perfect husband and men still get away with murder. When Patrick leaves his family behind in Co. Mayo, he also leaves a part of his heart. Rose is devastated and will do anything to find him. Ava seems destined to marry a nice, sensible New Yorker and to bid farewell to the dance halls she loves. Sheila grieves for the family she lost at Hitler's hands and struggles to find her place in the world. The only thing that they all have in common is their love of music. Told with melodic simplicity, their stories become intertwined in their quest for happiness. But somewhere along the line, hearts will be broken.
This is the ideal read for lovers of Historical Fiction and is perfectly timed for the Christmas market. More suitable for an older audience, I would think, with it's gentle narrative and endearing characters. The dance halls hop off the page, with their smoky dance floors, jiving customers and sassy staff. You can almost hear the music and envision the ladies popping off to powder their noses. These women are living in a man's world yet are determined to make the most of it. A classic love story with a musical twist. Time to dust of your dancing shoes and grab the rouge...
July 30, 2017
Patrick Murphy dreams of being a famous singer, but three different women, Rose, Ava and Sheila, will impact on his life in ways he couldn’t imagine.
I am so pleased that It Was Only Ever You has fulfilled all my expectations and allieviated my disappointment at not having had time to read Kate Kerrigan’s other novels yet. Everything positive I have ever heard about the way she writes is true.
It Was Only Ever You is a delight of a read. It is a pitch perfect romantic novel where all the characters are as real to me as I am myself. Usually there is a main character I don’t warm to but Kate Kerrigan manages to make me empathise with all of them in It Was Only Ever You so that I found my loyalties and emotions pulled every which way as the story progressed. I felt the women in particular were so well defined and realistic, although it was actually Dermot who moved me to tears at one point. Kate Kerrigan certainly knows how to create emotion.
I loved the plot and being taken back to New York so evocatively at a time when the second world war had ended and youth was beginning to find its way musically. I found Kate Kerrigan’s style such an effortless read and felt this was a book that would be a fabulous comfort read on a cold winter’s afternoon or on a beach in the sunshine. I also thoroughly enjoyed the ‘Irishness’ of so much of the story, with its religion, its love of ballads and the matriarchal hierarchy portrayed so beautifully.
Although the plot made me feel anxious at times because I wasn’t certain that it would work out as I wanted and Kate Kerrigan kept me guessing, I thought It Was Only Ever You is a smashing book that is eloquent, moving and nostalgic and I highly recommend it.
https://lindasbookbag.com/2017/07/30/...
I am so pleased that It Was Only Ever You has fulfilled all my expectations and allieviated my disappointment at not having had time to read Kate Kerrigan’s other novels yet. Everything positive I have ever heard about the way she writes is true.
It Was Only Ever You is a delight of a read. It is a pitch perfect romantic novel where all the characters are as real to me as I am myself. Usually there is a main character I don’t warm to but Kate Kerrigan manages to make me empathise with all of them in It Was Only Ever You so that I found my loyalties and emotions pulled every which way as the story progressed. I felt the women in particular were so well defined and realistic, although it was actually Dermot who moved me to tears at one point. Kate Kerrigan certainly knows how to create emotion.
I loved the plot and being taken back to New York so evocatively at a time when the second world war had ended and youth was beginning to find its way musically. I found Kate Kerrigan’s style such an effortless read and felt this was a book that would be a fabulous comfort read on a cold winter’s afternoon or on a beach in the sunshine. I also thoroughly enjoyed the ‘Irishness’ of so much of the story, with its religion, its love of ballads and the matriarchal hierarchy portrayed so beautifully.
Although the plot made me feel anxious at times because I wasn’t certain that it would work out as I wanted and Kate Kerrigan kept me guessing, I thought It Was Only Ever You is a smashing book that is eloquent, moving and nostalgic and I highly recommend it.
https://lindasbookbag.com/2017/07/30/...
July 30, 2017
Now I will be honest and say I have never read anything by Kate Kerrigan before, not even sure if her name has hit my radar but as soon as I spotted that cover I just had to read It Was Only Ever You. Just take another look at how beautiful the dress is, my favourite colour and style. I’m lucky enough to have received a paperback copy from the publisher and it is truly gorgeous.
Anyway, did the story live up to my expectations based on the front!? Yes it did. It actually involves a couple of my other favourite things, the 1950’s and New York so I knew I was on to a winner.
Kate writes with a flourish that immediately pulls you into the scene. The naivety of Ireland and the glamour of NYC make for an interesting combination for a setting.
This follows the lives of three women all very different personalities and one man … that lays down the foundation for a complex romance inter-weaved with class and nationality issues reminiscent of the era.
I loved the music and fashion aspect along with the historical facts .. I went through phases of liking a different character pretty much each time I picked the book up. There is passion, drama and plenty of atmosphere in the dance halls, if you are a rock and roll fan then whisk yourself away with this book and enjoy the dancing.
I enjoyed the authors style and would definitely read more by her.
My thanks to the publisher and author for my copy which I read and reviewed voluntarily.
Anyway, did the story live up to my expectations based on the front!? Yes it did. It actually involves a couple of my other favourite things, the 1950’s and New York so I knew I was on to a winner.
Kate writes with a flourish that immediately pulls you into the scene. The naivety of Ireland and the glamour of NYC make for an interesting combination for a setting.
This follows the lives of three women all very different personalities and one man … that lays down the foundation for a complex romance inter-weaved with class and nationality issues reminiscent of the era.
I loved the music and fashion aspect along with the historical facts .. I went through phases of liking a different character pretty much each time I picked the book up. There is passion, drama and plenty of atmosphere in the dance halls, if you are a rock and roll fan then whisk yourself away with this book and enjoy the dancing.
I enjoyed the authors style and would definitely read more by her.
My thanks to the publisher and author for my copy which I read and reviewed voluntarily.
January 1, 2021
It Was Only Ever You is my first introduction to Kate Kerrigan, but before I even picked up the book I knew that I had been missing out! With comparisons to the great Maeve Binchy and high praise from romance stalwarts, Marian Keyes, Cecelia Ahern, and my good friend, Tess Woods, I knew this would be a great book. And I certainly wasn’t disappointed.
The novel is set in County Mayo and New York in the 1950s and told from multiple points of view. Patrick leaves his sweetheart, Rose, the beautiful doctor’s daughter, behind in Ireland to emigrate to New York and make it big as a rock star. In New York, he meets Ava, a wealthy but shy girl, except for when she is on the dance floor. Holocaust survivor, Sheila, manages to talk her way into becoming Patrick’s manager, despite being on the run from the mob.
I loved the way this story was told. I can definitely see some similarities to Maeve Binchy’s heartfelt romance style Kerrigan captured the mood of old-school Ireland and the 1950s rock and roll scene of New York perfectly. I particularly enjoyed the scene where Sheila watches Bill Haley and his CometsBill Haley and his Comets in one of their earliest performances, especially as Rock Around the Clock was my grandmother’s favourite song!
Originally posted at https://scatterbooker.wordpress.com/2...
The novel is set in County Mayo and New York in the 1950s and told from multiple points of view. Patrick leaves his sweetheart, Rose, the beautiful doctor’s daughter, behind in Ireland to emigrate to New York and make it big as a rock star. In New York, he meets Ava, a wealthy but shy girl, except for when she is on the dance floor. Holocaust survivor, Sheila, manages to talk her way into becoming Patrick’s manager, despite being on the run from the mob.
I loved the way this story was told. I can definitely see some similarities to Maeve Binchy’s heartfelt romance style Kerrigan captured the mood of old-school Ireland and the 1950s rock and roll scene of New York perfectly. I particularly enjoyed the scene where Sheila watches Bill Haley and his CometsBill Haley and his Comets in one of their earliest performances, especially as Rock Around the Clock was my grandmother’s favourite song!
Originally posted at https://scatterbooker.wordpress.com/2...
October 1, 2017
It Was Only Ever You by Kate Kerrigan is a very sweet romantic story set in the 1950's Ireland and New York.
A really complex love story that touches the lives of three women and kept my interest till the very last word written on the page.
I really enjoyed this book and will be looking for more books by this author. Recommended.
A really complex love story that touches the lives of three women and kept my interest till the very last word written on the page.
I really enjoyed this book and will be looking for more books by this author. Recommended.
July 31, 2017
For my written review, please check out the link below:
Debra's Book Cafe
Debs :-)
Debra's Book Cafe
Debs :-)
July 11, 2017
A lovely romantic read, the story moves along quite quickly & doesn't drag, a lovely read for a winter's night.
Read
February 4, 2017– Respect? No. They were things men gave to other men in business. Women were for waiting tables. Sure, make the girl a manager, give her a few extra dollars, but respect a woman for doing a man's job? Nah. Never going to happen. –
– Rose did not have Hopkins blood so how she turned out was God's department. –
– Tom was not entirely convinced by this 'new' Ava – he liked his wild dancing, joke-around girl, but he supposed this is what happened to daughters when they matured. You lost them. –
– He knew, too, that cruelty was not the preserve of the poor, and that snobbery often let psychopaths from the privileged class go unpunished. –
– The devout Bridie Flahertys of this world were two a penny but a good gangster could really turn a Saturday morning confession around. –
– Rose did not have Hopkins blood so how she turned out was God's department. –
– Tom was not entirely convinced by this 'new' Ava – he liked his wild dancing, joke-around girl, but he supposed this is what happened to daughters when they matured. You lost them. –
– He knew, too, that cruelty was not the preserve of the poor, and that snobbery often let psychopaths from the privileged class go unpunished. –
– The devout Bridie Flahertys of this world were two a penny but a good gangster could really turn a Saturday morning confession around. –
November 21, 2016
I wish we could save some pages and cut out all the stuff about Rose and just have a story about Ava. I loved Ava, most interesting character. Sheila was really interesting too. Rose, couldn't stand her. Also Patrick is the most fickle and frustrating man I have ever had to read about. Have a damn spine.
December 10, 2016
It took me a little while to get into the story, I think because of the three-way point of view, but once it got going, this was really enjoyable. And if you're wondering, like I was, if the song It Was Only Ever You actually exists, yes it does, and you can listen to it on YouTube (I also found myself watching videos of the astonishingly athletic dancing to Bill Haley and The Comets).
July 28, 2017
I have a real soft spot for Kate Kerrigan's writing, I've been a fan of hers for many years, ever since I read Recipes for a Perfect Marriage ten years ago. She also wrote the brilliant Ellis Island series. I reviewed her award-winning novel The Dress here on Random Things in June 2015.
It Was Only Ever You is another sweeping story from this very talented author. Set between 1950s County Mayo, Ireland and New York it is a story of hope, love, new beginnings, betrayal and discovery and features three well formed and realistic female lead characters. The three women; Rose, Ava and Sheila come from different backgrounds, different cultures and have different beliefs, yet they are intricately bound together by Patrick Murphy.
The story begins in Ireland as Patrick and Rose fall in love. Patrick comes from a hard-working, but poor family and courting the beautiful young Rose was never going to be looked at favourably by her family. She's the adopted daughter of the town Doctor, and her parents have great hopes for her. They certainly didn't envisage a life as a Murphy wife. It is their money and their influence that persuades Patrick, rather naively, to try his luck in America. He believes that Rose will follow him when he makes his fortune.
In America, Patrick's beautiful singing voice is discovered by upcoming music agent Sheila. She's a tough, straight-talking woman, ahead of her time. She does as she wants, upsets the wrong type of people and is determined to make Patrick a star. Not only has Patrick discovered his singing talent, but he's now also a husband and a father-to-be. His whirlwind romance with Ava, who dumped her solicitor fiance for Patrick has rather taken him by surprise.
Kate Kerrigan is so incredibly talented. Her female characters are so well developed, highly individual and despite Patrick's beauty, charm and success, each of these feisty females walk all over him. Patrick is a charmer, but also has a gullibility and naivety that exposes his weakness, this really is a female-led story, and I loved that.
It Was Only Ever You is set during the birth of rock n roll in the US, in the hot and sweaty ballrooms and dance clubs where the young people began to discover the frenetic dance and music that would shape our future. This is an incredibly well written, colourful and very moving story. I enjoyed every page.
https://randomthingsthroughmyletterbo...
It Was Only Ever You is another sweeping story from this very talented author. Set between 1950s County Mayo, Ireland and New York it is a story of hope, love, new beginnings, betrayal and discovery and features three well formed and realistic female lead characters. The three women; Rose, Ava and Sheila come from different backgrounds, different cultures and have different beliefs, yet they are intricately bound together by Patrick Murphy.
The story begins in Ireland as Patrick and Rose fall in love. Patrick comes from a hard-working, but poor family and courting the beautiful young Rose was never going to be looked at favourably by her family. She's the adopted daughter of the town Doctor, and her parents have great hopes for her. They certainly didn't envisage a life as a Murphy wife. It is their money and their influence that persuades Patrick, rather naively, to try his luck in America. He believes that Rose will follow him when he makes his fortune.
In America, Patrick's beautiful singing voice is discovered by upcoming music agent Sheila. She's a tough, straight-talking woman, ahead of her time. She does as she wants, upsets the wrong type of people and is determined to make Patrick a star. Not only has Patrick discovered his singing talent, but he's now also a husband and a father-to-be. His whirlwind romance with Ava, who dumped her solicitor fiance for Patrick has rather taken him by surprise.
Kate Kerrigan is so incredibly talented. Her female characters are so well developed, highly individual and despite Patrick's beauty, charm and success, each of these feisty females walk all over him. Patrick is a charmer, but also has a gullibility and naivety that exposes his weakness, this really is a female-led story, and I loved that.
It Was Only Ever You is set during the birth of rock n roll in the US, in the hot and sweaty ballrooms and dance clubs where the young people began to discover the frenetic dance and music that would shape our future. This is an incredibly well written, colourful and very moving story. I enjoyed every page.
https://randomthingsthroughmyletterbo...
December 3, 2016
What started as a great story with engaging characters quickly descended into a frustrating read for me. There was an impulsiveness that ran through this book, not only within the characters actions, but within the story itself. Moments of sincerity and even tragedy were given little weight and the characters seemed to rush from one impulsive mistake to another, falling in and out of love at the drop of a hat and never really appreciating anyone or anything. Patrick Murphy would have to be one of the weakest men ever created and why everyone was going gaga over him was a mystery to me. Rose was not a very nice woman and I found her milksop manipulations deplorable. Ava was a character of worth but even she was tainted by the author's incessant need to have everyone act impulsively and without thought for repercussions. Sheila was a tough woman who knew exactly what she wanted until she didn't. Her story was perhaps the most satisfying out of the whole book, but even it didn't reach expectations.
Part of why I was so frustrated reading this can be attributed to the style the author favoured. There was constant 'head hopping' within scenes which was jarring to the flow of reading and at times confusing. When the author did switch to a new character, there was all of this going back and forth in time by way of recap, which not only interrupted the flow but made everything seem a little out of order and disjointed.
I had high hopes for this book, but sadly, they were not met.
Part of why I was so frustrated reading this can be attributed to the style the author favoured. There was constant 'head hopping' within scenes which was jarring to the flow of reading and at times confusing. When the author did switch to a new character, there was all of this going back and forth in time by way of recap, which not only interrupted the flow but made everything seem a little out of order and disjointed.
I had high hopes for this book, but sadly, they were not met.
July 26, 2017
I am always intrigued by the history of the world mixed with captivating love stories. Well, It Was Only Ever You is one compelling romantic story! I love the way the author perfectly balanced the characters and their life journey with the historical timings and the vibrant music scene in 1950.
I was so smitten with Sheila's character, her drive, personal strengths and the power to make herself the best in the business. It is so clear to see where the woman place was at the time but Sheila had an incredible business drive and ability to see the music future in the world.
I eagerly followed Patrick and Rose's love and life journey. The way they separated because of Patrick love for music was leading him all the way across the pond to New York, the maker of the music industry. Patrick and Rose are also from a different class, and their parents have a different expectation of them.
Then there is Ava. I warmed to Ava from the beginning of the story. Ava loves music and dancing. She wants to dance the nights away and hopefully find her happiness amongst the jiving feet of the Ballroom.
The book is told from a few POV, which adds a bit more of a personal touch to the whole story that landscapes the journey of three music lovers.
It Was Only Ever You is a past-paced, appealing and intriguing story that will transport you in the time of great Rock&Roll rise.
Picture
I was so smitten with Sheila's character, her drive, personal strengths and the power to make herself the best in the business. It is so clear to see where the woman place was at the time but Sheila had an incredible business drive and ability to see the music future in the world.
I eagerly followed Patrick and Rose's love and life journey. The way they separated because of Patrick love for music was leading him all the way across the pond to New York, the maker of the music industry. Patrick and Rose are also from a different class, and their parents have a different expectation of them.
Then there is Ava. I warmed to Ava from the beginning of the story. Ava loves music and dancing. She wants to dance the nights away and hopefully find her happiness amongst the jiving feet of the Ballroom.
The book is told from a few POV, which adds a bit more of a personal touch to the whole story that landscapes the journey of three music lovers.
It Was Only Ever You is a past-paced, appealing and intriguing story that will transport you in the time of great Rock&Roll rise.
Picture
December 27, 2016
I've read everything Kate Kerrigan has written and have enjoyed all of her books particularly The Lost Garden and more recently The Dress. With this new book It Was Only Ever You the author once again returns to America having so successfully used this as a setting in The Dress. This time the book opens with a brief prologue in New York in March 1941. A young girl Sheila only aged 14 has to come to terms with the fact that the truth has been kept hidden from her for some time and her stay with her German grandparents must now become permanent.
Sheila feels all alone in a city of thousands and is determined she will be a big girl and achieve something in her life. I kept wondering throughout the entire story what bearing the prologue would have on the rest of the book. As normally when I read a prologue I often forget about it until the very end until it ties in ever so cleverly with the story as a whole. Here this wasn't the case at all I was expecting some big twist, some shocking reveal but it never came. I felt there was no need for the prologue at all as Sheila's background could have been explained in a few brief sentences when we first encounter her as an older woman working the club scene in New York as a manager. It really added nothing to the book and I felt the same with several of the characters in the story. The book overall was a real mish mash for me, parts were good others were not bad but they just didn't drive the story on.
The story properly begins in Mayo in 1958, Patrick Murphy is going with his friends for a swim on a hot summer's day when an encounter with a bull in a field leads him to meeting Rose Hopkins the daughter of the local doctor. From their first moments spent together they establish a connection but one that must be kept secret as the doctor's family view themselves as a different class to the rest of the villagers in the small town. Rose loves drawing and sketching and uses this as an excuse to sneak away during the summer afternoons so she can meet Patrick. It felt as if their love developed very quickly and there was no holding back between the pair, they couldn't get enough of each other's company. But if this was to be all plain sailing it wouldn't have made for much of a book and there were to be many twists and turns before an ending was reached. Many very unexpected but also I found many to be so frustrating and just not needed at all in the book. There was so much chopping and changing it became difficult to follow and made the book drag and I found it challenging to devote my whole attention 100% of the time and I reluctantly say that about any book.
There were so many characters introduced once it becomes clear things in Ireland were not going to be kept secret and once things were out in the open the story moved to New York leaving Rose behind in Mayo. I found Rose to be quite foolish and someone who acted before even stopping to think. She wasn't at all mature or sensible and was led entirely by her heart. Normally I wouldn't mind that at all but in this case I felt she would have been best to let sleeping dogs lie. As I have mentioned we are introduced to endless characters once we reach 1950's New York and the reader could see tentative connections between them all but really several could have been left out and were surplus to requirements and didn't in my mind bring much to the story.
Ava Brogan works in the typing pool of her father's insurance company. Her mother Nessa wants a good match for her but Ava is viewed as plain and not attractive or interesting to men instead just rather tall and gangly. Ava herself loves visiting the dance halls and listening to the Irish showbands and various singers in the clubs while dancing the night away. She feels like she will never find love and the put downs she receives from her mother and the society women in general really annoyed me and I thought why on earth did they keep at Ava? Surely you want to build your daughter's courage up not knock her down repeatedly. Ava was clever and kind and I hoped she would find the independence she clearly longed for. Through gaining a new suit things begin to change for Ava and encountering Patrick turns everything upside down. Sheila crops up again too determined to fire the fuel of her ambition and make Patrick a star.
Rose too makes herself known at the most inopportune of times yet she still didn't endear herself to me. All the characters seemed to fall in and out of love so quickly it was hard to keep up with all the goings on and by the end I wasn't that bothered who ended up with who or even with anyone at all. The fact we went back over scenes from different characters viewpoints which we had already read before only added to my frustrations. It made me only more muddled as to everything going on and led to the basic storyline getting lost amidst everything else going on.
One thing that was strong regarding this book was the setting of New York. There was incredible detail into the music scene at the time which was on the brink of so much change. It opened my eyes to the Irish abroad and even the seedy underbelly so rampant at the time as Sheila discovers to her detriment. Even the church plays a hand in things. I thought this book would be amazing instead it was only average for me and I say that with much reluctance as I always want to give every book the chance it deserves given the time and effort every author puts into their work. There was romance here but it didn't grab me by the heart and none of the characters especially endeared themselves to me with their actions. There is a good storyline waiting here to be found it just got lost in too much going on.
Sadly It Was Only Ever You is not my favourite book by this author. If you are new to her work I recommend starting with some of her earlier books. I hope her next book will be more to my liking yet I am glad I gave this one try as Kate Kerrigan is an author whom I regularly enjoy reading her stories it's just unfortunate this one wasn't what I had hoped it to be.
Sheila feels all alone in a city of thousands and is determined she will be a big girl and achieve something in her life. I kept wondering throughout the entire story what bearing the prologue would have on the rest of the book. As normally when I read a prologue I often forget about it until the very end until it ties in ever so cleverly with the story as a whole. Here this wasn't the case at all I was expecting some big twist, some shocking reveal but it never came. I felt there was no need for the prologue at all as Sheila's background could have been explained in a few brief sentences when we first encounter her as an older woman working the club scene in New York as a manager. It really added nothing to the book and I felt the same with several of the characters in the story. The book overall was a real mish mash for me, parts were good others were not bad but they just didn't drive the story on.
The story properly begins in Mayo in 1958, Patrick Murphy is going with his friends for a swim on a hot summer's day when an encounter with a bull in a field leads him to meeting Rose Hopkins the daughter of the local doctor. From their first moments spent together they establish a connection but one that must be kept secret as the doctor's family view themselves as a different class to the rest of the villagers in the small town. Rose loves drawing and sketching and uses this as an excuse to sneak away during the summer afternoons so she can meet Patrick. It felt as if their love developed very quickly and there was no holding back between the pair, they couldn't get enough of each other's company. But if this was to be all plain sailing it wouldn't have made for much of a book and there were to be many twists and turns before an ending was reached. Many very unexpected but also I found many to be so frustrating and just not needed at all in the book. There was so much chopping and changing it became difficult to follow and made the book drag and I found it challenging to devote my whole attention 100% of the time and I reluctantly say that about any book.
There were so many characters introduced once it becomes clear things in Ireland were not going to be kept secret and once things were out in the open the story moved to New York leaving Rose behind in Mayo. I found Rose to be quite foolish and someone who acted before even stopping to think. She wasn't at all mature or sensible and was led entirely by her heart. Normally I wouldn't mind that at all but in this case I felt she would have been best to let sleeping dogs lie. As I have mentioned we are introduced to endless characters once we reach 1950's New York and the reader could see tentative connections between them all but really several could have been left out and were surplus to requirements and didn't in my mind bring much to the story.
Ava Brogan works in the typing pool of her father's insurance company. Her mother Nessa wants a good match for her but Ava is viewed as plain and not attractive or interesting to men instead just rather tall and gangly. Ava herself loves visiting the dance halls and listening to the Irish showbands and various singers in the clubs while dancing the night away. She feels like she will never find love and the put downs she receives from her mother and the society women in general really annoyed me and I thought why on earth did they keep at Ava? Surely you want to build your daughter's courage up not knock her down repeatedly. Ava was clever and kind and I hoped she would find the independence she clearly longed for. Through gaining a new suit things begin to change for Ava and encountering Patrick turns everything upside down. Sheila crops up again too determined to fire the fuel of her ambition and make Patrick a star.
Rose too makes herself known at the most inopportune of times yet she still didn't endear herself to me. All the characters seemed to fall in and out of love so quickly it was hard to keep up with all the goings on and by the end I wasn't that bothered who ended up with who or even with anyone at all. The fact we went back over scenes from different characters viewpoints which we had already read before only added to my frustrations. It made me only more muddled as to everything going on and led to the basic storyline getting lost amidst everything else going on.
One thing that was strong regarding this book was the setting of New York. There was incredible detail into the music scene at the time which was on the brink of so much change. It opened my eyes to the Irish abroad and even the seedy underbelly so rampant at the time as Sheila discovers to her detriment. Even the church plays a hand in things. I thought this book would be amazing instead it was only average for me and I say that with much reluctance as I always want to give every book the chance it deserves given the time and effort every author puts into their work. There was romance here but it didn't grab me by the heart and none of the characters especially endeared themselves to me with their actions. There is a good storyline waiting here to be found it just got lost in too much going on.
Sadly It Was Only Ever You is not my favourite book by this author. If you are new to her work I recommend starting with some of her earlier books. I hope her next book will be more to my liking yet I am glad I gave this one try as Kate Kerrigan is an author whom I regularly enjoy reading her stories it's just unfortunate this one wasn't what I had hoped it to be.
November 7, 2019
It was only ever you is a delightful read from Kate Kerrigan.
The story follows the lives of three women who want to make something of their lives in New York.
Sheila Klein has lost her parents in the war and stays with her aunt and uncle. Sheila decides to work hard and becomes a successful manager in one of the dance halls in town..
Ava loves dancing and wishes to marry and settle down.Her life changes when she hears a young man sing from Ireland.
Rose has run away from her parents to be with her first love. Rose arrives in New York knowing nobody and has to find her way..
A wonderful story of twists and turns of love, hope and following your dreams..
The story follows the lives of three women who want to make something of their lives in New York.
Sheila Klein has lost her parents in the war and stays with her aunt and uncle. Sheila decides to work hard and becomes a successful manager in one of the dance halls in town..
Ava loves dancing and wishes to marry and settle down.Her life changes when she hears a young man sing from Ireland.
Rose has run away from her parents to be with her first love. Rose arrives in New York knowing nobody and has to find her way..
A wonderful story of twists and turns of love, hope and following your dreams..
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 28, 2017
After a reading drought, Kate Kerrigan brought me back with my favorite kind of book! "It Was Only Ever You" follows a pair of Irish lovers, a Jewish bad ass, a respectable lawyer and their mix of family and friends in Ireland and New York. It is filled with romance, and hence, drama but it is well written. You will fall in live, tears will fall, (Irish) tempers will rise and the reader will be trying to absorb the next step as Kerrigan emerges them in the characters' lives, Topsy-Turvy as they may be! A must-read for fans of Binchy and those who like historical, character based fiction!
December 10, 2016
It Was Only Ever You is an interesting story set in Ireland and New York in the 1950’s which I really enjoyed. Three very different women and one man, Patrick Murphy. This is a really good romance with wonderful characters – dragging a little in the end whilst they were all sorting out who was going with who, but an enjoyable read!
January 28, 2021
I did enjoy this book, first of hers that I read. Lost interest in the first half as was taking so long to get going, but when it did I couldn’t put it down.
What stops me giving it more stars, is purely for the ending. Thought at one point it might be going a different route, but just ended up as a pure cliche.
What stops me giving it more stars, is purely for the ending. Thought at one point it might be going a different route, but just ended up as a pure cliche.
April 20, 2020
Everything you would expect from the cover. Easy reading, predictable, glamorous characters. I thought it was well written and paced . I thought the ending was too predictable with all the ends conveniently tied I ended up skim reading the last few chapters. Basically an easy but enjoyable read.
May 23, 2020
It has too many characters, too many storylines, and the author tries to bring them all in together but it really should be 2 or 3 books. The ending feels like the author is pulling teeth to tie the ends together and it just felt bleah.
April 11, 2019
Pleasant but forgettable. Nice easy read.
September 10, 2023
An ok read nothing spectacular
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