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Ballybeg #1
Love and Shenanigans
A romantic comedy featuring a crashed wedding, a puppy with attitude, and a second chance romance.
Falling for the groom…Three days before leaving Ireland on the adventure of a lifetime, Fiona Byrne returns to her hometown to attend the family wedding from hell. When she discovers the drunken vows she exchanged with the groom during a wild Las Vegas trip eight years previously mean they're legally married, her future plans ricochet out of control.
Gavin Maguire's life is low on drama, high on stability, and free of pets. But Gavin hadn't reckoned on Fiona blasting back into his life and crashing his wedding. In the space of twenty-four hours, he loses a fiancée and a job, and gains a wife and a puppy. Can he salvage his bland-but-stable life? More importantly, can he resist losing his heart to Fiona all over again?
Falling for the groom…Three days before leaving Ireland on the adventure of a lifetime, Fiona Byrne returns to her hometown to attend the family wedding from hell. When she discovers the drunken vows she exchanged with the groom during a wild Las Vegas trip eight years previously mean they're legally married, her future plans ricochet out of control.
Gavin Maguire's life is low on drama, high on stability, and free of pets. But Gavin hadn't reckoned on Fiona blasting back into his life and crashing his wedding. In the space of twenty-four hours, he loses a fiancée and a job, and gains a wife and a puppy. Can he salvage his bland-but-stable life? More importantly, can he resist losing his heart to Fiona all over again?
360 pages, ebook
First published May 17, 2014
1337 people are currently reading
2182 people want to read
About the author
Zara Keane
42 books987 followersZara Keane is a USA Today bestselling author of Irish cozy mysteries and romantic comedies.
Zara grew up in Dublin, Ireland, but spent her summers in a small town very similar to the fictitious Ballybeg and Smuggler's Cove.
She currently lives in Switzerland with her family. When she’s not writing, Zara loves knitting, running, unplugged gaming, and adding to her insanely large lipstick collection.
Don't miss a new story! For news, giveaways, and TWO free stories, sign up for Zara's Mailing List at https://zarakeane.com/newsletter/
Zara can also be found in her Facebook Reader Group, the Mystery Mavens.
Zara grew up in Dublin, Ireland, but spent her summers in a small town very similar to the fictitious Ballybeg and Smuggler's Cove.
She currently lives in Switzerland with her family. When she’s not writing, Zara loves knitting, running, unplugged gaming, and adding to her insanely large lipstick collection.
Don't miss a new story! For news, giveaways, and TWO free stories, sign up for Zara's Mailing List at https://zarakeane.com/newsletter/
Zara can also be found in her Facebook Reader Group, the Mystery Mavens.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 228 reviews
August 13, 2017
This book began my St. Paddy's Day week of Irish reads. It was a good start.
*** 3 Seductive Lip Bites ***
This was a cute contemporary rom-com. A light and easy read. Not really a steamy read. Yes, there's some sex and some dirty talk. TBH, I think there was only a couple of those scenes. But, it was still a spicy little read. And, that was totally fine with me because my main purpose in picking up this book was the fact that it is set in Ireland. Loved the Irish brogue and slang. Plenty of Irish small town life in this book. Also, enjoyed the nod to traditional Irish heritage and countryside. The chapters could have used some sort of header so I knew which POV I was reading before I started the chapter, but eh... feck it... I figured it out. Overall, I liked it... didn't LOVE it. But it was a solid Irish read.
*** 3 Seductive Lip Bites ***
This was a cute contemporary rom-com. A light and easy read. Not really a steamy read. Yes, there's some sex and some dirty talk. TBH, I think there was only a couple of those scenes. But, it was still a spicy little read. And, that was totally fine with me because my main purpose in picking up this book was the fact that it is set in Ireland. Loved the Irish brogue and slang. Plenty of Irish small town life in this book. Also, enjoyed the nod to traditional Irish heritage and countryside. The chapters could have used some sort of header so I knew which POV I was reading before I started the chapter, but eh... feck it... I figured it out. Overall, I liked it... didn't LOVE it. But it was a solid Irish read.
August 2, 2014
4 Solid Stars! Loved the shenanigans in this book! Good times with the Irish!
Light easy quick read, great for the beach or a lazy afternoon on the couch. No stress, just plain old fun!
My only complaint would be that while I enjoyed the fact that the story didn't get hung up on details, I felt like I needed a few more about certain characters. I understand how this author's writing works, she makes the reader work for information, but I wanted more clarity on a few people in particular and how they were related to the main characters. You eventually find out, and much to my delight see that they will be having books of their own.
Plus there's a dog...who doesn't love a dog in a book, especially when they play a huge role. Wiggly Poo...hated the name at first but it grew on me. Doesn't seem to fit a Labradoodle, but it did, a lovely rambunctious, destructive bundle of fur!
It's the characters, and the unique circumstances they find themselves in that drive this story, but with enough steam to satisfy this reader. Loads of entertaining good fun and snarky witty banter that had me chuckling and snorting throughout the read. I found a new series to enjoy and I'll definitely be heading back to Ballybeg to hang out with these quirky folk in Love and Blarney!
*A copy of the book was provided by Beaverstone Press LLC via NetGalley*
February 15, 2024
It has been a while since I read a Zara Keane book and I had forgotten how much I love her. I am not a real fan of contemporary romance, too much angst for my taste, but Keane writes a real, funny book and they are pure escape. I love Ballybeg, a town in Ireland. It is a wonderful town with slightly off-center characters. This is a second chance romance with a touch of mystery, family drama and an adorable Labradoodle puppy who just steals your heart.
Fiona Byrne is back in her hometown of Ballybeg to perform an odious task foisted upon her by her aunt, whom she adores, but doesn't like much right now. She is to be the maid-of-honor in her cousin Muireann's wedding of the century to Fiona's first love, Gavin Maguire. But Fiona can endure this because in three days she is jetting off on the vacation of her dreams.
While sorting through boxes her aunt has stored of her childhood keepsakes, Fiona and her bestie Olivia, find a ceremonial marriage certificate that says Fiona and Gavin got married in Las Vegas eight years ago. What happened to what happens in Vegas, stays in Vegas? Fiona fesses up that they were drunk, and Gavin bribed the officiant not to file the official papers. But a quick check shows that he did. and Fiona and Gavin are truly married.
Gavin Maguire had his life all planned out. No drama, a steady climb in status as an architect and marriage to a woman who wanted the same things he wanted. Then Fiona shows up to the wedding and his well-planned life is blowen to smithereens. Her plan to talk to him on the down-low blows up into the biggest scandal to hit Ballybeg in quite some time. Muireann, his boss and Muireann's father, Bernard, and her mother are all beyond shocked and Gavin loses everything he has worked for.
The fallout included Fiona's aunt Bridie falling and breaking her hip, which means Fiona isn't going anywhere anytime soon. Gavin loses his job and is being held responsible financially for a wedding he really didn't want and now he and Fiona have to decide how to untangle the mess that is now their lives. One thing they absolutely didn't count on was falling in love.
Fiona Byrne is back in her hometown of Ballybeg to perform an odious task foisted upon her by her aunt, whom she adores, but doesn't like much right now. She is to be the maid-of-honor in her cousin Muireann's wedding of the century to Fiona's first love, Gavin Maguire. But Fiona can endure this because in three days she is jetting off on the vacation of her dreams.
While sorting through boxes her aunt has stored of her childhood keepsakes, Fiona and her bestie Olivia, find a ceremonial marriage certificate that says Fiona and Gavin got married in Las Vegas eight years ago. What happened to what happens in Vegas, stays in Vegas? Fiona fesses up that they were drunk, and Gavin bribed the officiant not to file the official papers. But a quick check shows that he did. and Fiona and Gavin are truly married.
Gavin Maguire had his life all planned out. No drama, a steady climb in status as an architect and marriage to a woman who wanted the same things he wanted. Then Fiona shows up to the wedding and his well-planned life is blowen to smithereens. Her plan to talk to him on the down-low blows up into the biggest scandal to hit Ballybeg in quite some time. Muireann, his boss and Muireann's father, Bernard, and her mother are all beyond shocked and Gavin loses everything he has worked for.
The fallout included Fiona's aunt Bridie falling and breaking her hip, which means Fiona isn't going anywhere anytime soon. Gavin loses his job and is being held responsible financially for a wedding he really didn't want and now he and Fiona have to decide how to untangle the mess that is now their lives. One thing they absolutely didn't count on was falling in love.
August 5, 2014
New-to-me author Zara Keane has created an adorable, quirky, funny, and romantic world in a small Irish town. I was totally charmed by this first book in her series. The characters are colorful, the humor is spot-on, the setting pops off the page, and the second-chance romance is oh-so-satisfying.
She has a lovely novella coming out soon (in August), and more full-length books in this series. Check out her website for more information.
I highly recommend this book if you love small town romance, quirky characters, fun comedy, and settings that make you want to get a plane ticket to Ireland!
She has a lovely novella coming out soon (in August), and more full-length books in this series. Check out her website for more information.
I highly recommend this book if you love small town romance, quirky characters, fun comedy, and settings that make you want to get a plane ticket to Ireland!
July 1, 2017
LOVE AND SHENANIGANS was a delightful second-chance love story set in Ireland and filled with a colorful and fun cast of characters and well, plenty of shenanigans! Zara Keane has set a high bar with her debut novel as she begins her Ballybeg series.
Her heroine, Fiona, an orphan raised by her elderly yet spunky aunt Bridie moved away from her hometown of Ballybeg eight years ago to make her own place in the world. Her only other family in Ballybeg is her aunt, uncle and cousin who have been less than kind. Her cousin, Muireann has in fact always been competitive, petty and sometimes cruel in her enjoyment of humiliating her younger cousin. She's made a success of herself career-wise, but not had much luck romantically. Much of the reason being she never really got over her first love, Gavin, and no other man seems to measure up, even if she is doing the measuring subconsciously.
After an unexpected night of passion and an unplanned wedding in Vegas eight years ago proved Gavin and Fiona had chemistry to spare, Fiona's heart was set. Gavin, however, was none the wiser when it came to Fiona's feelings. He was strongly attracted to her fiery personality and beautiful curves, but she was all wrong for him. Too unpredictable, and the feelings she brought up in him were too scary to even consider. That night eight years ago in Vegas proved they were explosive together, but that was not the path he planned for his life. So he left her there and started a relationship with her cousin, Muireann. Leaving Fiona heartbroken and both of them believing their marriage certificate had never been filed and therefore, their impromptu wedding invalid.
Gavin came from his own sad family story, with a mother who provided a less than stable environment, his greatest desire in a partner and relationship was that there would be no drama. If to avoid the emotional stress of drama meant he also had to give up some of the more pleasant emotions such as passion and deep love for one another, so be it. He wanted a nice even, steady course with no bumps or surprises. Marriage to Muireann promised all of that, she was beautiful, elegant and calm. She could be a bit of an ice queen, but passion only brought trouble. The fact that her father dangled a coveted position with his company only made the relationship more attractive. Marriage to Muireann was the logical and sensible thing to do.
The story starts off with Fiona back in Ballybeg to be the maid of honor in Muireann and Gavin's wedding. Forced to wear a horrendous dress and bear the pettiness of her "prettier" cousin. When she discovers, right before the wedding of course, that she and Gavin's wedding was legal after all, she has no other choice than to let him know and stops the ceremony. This sets in motion a myriad of situations and throws her and her "husband" together as they try to sort things out. Seems there is more than one person with hidden motives and downright underhanded behavior living in the small town of Ballybeg. All sorts of shenanigans are afoot making this story comical, sweet, a bit mysterious, and there are even some nicely done love scenes thrown in. As I said the personalities of the characters are colorful and well-developed, the good guys and the bad. And there is a sweet little labradoodle puppy who doesn't understand the meaning of good behavior, and answers to the ridiculous name of Wiggly Poo, who I grew to adore. Gavin's best friend Logan and his son are a nice addition to the story, as is Fiona's friend, Olivia.
I'm trying not to give spoilers and ruin the story with all it's twists and plotting, but can say it was so much fun to read. It kept my absolute attention from start to finish and I ended the book with a smile on my face. I'm looking forward to the future books in Zara's Ballybeg series. 4.5 stars
~Complimentary copy provided via NetGalley in exchange for a honest review.
Her heroine, Fiona, an orphan raised by her elderly yet spunky aunt Bridie moved away from her hometown of Ballybeg eight years ago to make her own place in the world. Her only other family in Ballybeg is her aunt, uncle and cousin who have been less than kind. Her cousin, Muireann has in fact always been competitive, petty and sometimes cruel in her enjoyment of humiliating her younger cousin. She's made a success of herself career-wise, but not had much luck romantically. Much of the reason being she never really got over her first love, Gavin, and no other man seems to measure up, even if she is doing the measuring subconsciously.
After an unexpected night of passion and an unplanned wedding in Vegas eight years ago proved Gavin and Fiona had chemistry to spare, Fiona's heart was set. Gavin, however, was none the wiser when it came to Fiona's feelings. He was strongly attracted to her fiery personality and beautiful curves, but she was all wrong for him. Too unpredictable, and the feelings she brought up in him were too scary to even consider. That night eight years ago in Vegas proved they were explosive together, but that was not the path he planned for his life. So he left her there and started a relationship with her cousin, Muireann. Leaving Fiona heartbroken and both of them believing their marriage certificate had never been filed and therefore, their impromptu wedding invalid.
Gavin came from his own sad family story, with a mother who provided a less than stable environment, his greatest desire in a partner and relationship was that there would be no drama. If to avoid the emotional stress of drama meant he also had to give up some of the more pleasant emotions such as passion and deep love for one another, so be it. He wanted a nice even, steady course with no bumps or surprises. Marriage to Muireann promised all of that, she was beautiful, elegant and calm. She could be a bit of an ice queen, but passion only brought trouble. The fact that her father dangled a coveted position with his company only made the relationship more attractive. Marriage to Muireann was the logical and sensible thing to do.
The story starts off with Fiona back in Ballybeg to be the maid of honor in Muireann and Gavin's wedding. Forced to wear a horrendous dress and bear the pettiness of her "prettier" cousin. When she discovers, right before the wedding of course, that she and Gavin's wedding was legal after all, she has no other choice than to let him know and stops the ceremony. This sets in motion a myriad of situations and throws her and her "husband" together as they try to sort things out. Seems there is more than one person with hidden motives and downright underhanded behavior living in the small town of Ballybeg. All sorts of shenanigans are afoot making this story comical, sweet, a bit mysterious, and there are even some nicely done love scenes thrown in. As I said the personalities of the characters are colorful and well-developed, the good guys and the bad. And there is a sweet little labradoodle puppy who doesn't understand the meaning of good behavior, and answers to the ridiculous name of Wiggly Poo, who I grew to adore. Gavin's best friend Logan and his son are a nice addition to the story, as is Fiona's friend, Olivia.
I'm trying not to give spoilers and ruin the story with all it's twists and plotting, but can say it was so much fun to read. It kept my absolute attention from start to finish and I ended the book with a smile on my face. I'm looking forward to the future books in Zara's Ballybeg series. 4.5 stars
~Complimentary copy provided via NetGalley in exchange for a honest review.
September 1, 2015
eh. not bad. she did a lot of set ups that never really paid off, just kind of fizzled out tho. That was a bit odd.
January 5, 2015
Zara Keane is a new welcomed voice in Contemporary Romance. If you looking for crisp, clean writing, engaging dialogue, steamy sex, and too many laughs to count, you’ll find it with Love and Shenanigans, the first book in Zara’s Ballybeg series! I haven't read many current day romances set in Ireland, and Love in Shenanigan is set in a small town of Ballybeg, which was a nice change. The setting is flavorful and the characters as well. You'll feel like you've been transplanted into this colorful world Zara has created.
Thee laughs are plentiful here, especially with Wiggly Poo, a rambunctious labradoodle that causes so many problems throughout the novel. This pup is one of the many reasons Love and Shenanigans was such a hoot to read!
Fiona returns to Ballybeg for her cousin, Muireann's wedding. Fiona and the bride don't get along at all, but Fiona sucks it up and doesn't want to cause a problem. Soon she'll be on her grand holiday to Australia. Her cousin's husband to be is, Gavin, a man Fiona has known for most of her life, and who she once had a crush on. She finds out right before the wedding that she is still married to Gavin. A few years ago she and Gavin ended up in Las Vegas, got drunk and married by Elvis. They didn't think it was the real deal and forgot about it. It has come back to bite them big time. Now Gavin is in the dog house, so to speak, because Muireann hates him, and her powerful, rich father wants to ruin him. Fiona has her own problems because her beloved Aunt Bridie, who took Fiona in after her parents died in a horrible car crash, has an accident and can't run her bookstore. Fiona takes over for Bridie and stays in Ballybeg until she and Gavin can get an annulment or divorce.
Gavin's life has come crashing down, and he might have no choice to give into Muireann father's demands for retribution if he wants to still have his respect and a career. He starts spending more time with Fiona, which in turns makes him second guess everything about himself and what he thought he had with Muireann, who has conveniently skipped town to recover from her botched wedding. It's not surprising Fiona and Gavin rekindle their romance, which should be so wrong, but feels so right to them. Perhaps these two should stay married and see what their future holds?
Love and Shenanigans is romantic comedy gold. I can't count the number of times I laughed out loud. There is drama, tension, a mystery regarding Fiona's grandmother's will and if Wiggly Poo will ever behave. Everything is wrapped up in a near perfect HEA bow, which I loved.
I'm definitely on the Zara Keane fan bandwagon. I knew Zara when she first started as book blogger, who then turned author. I'm so happy she made the leap, and has done it very well.
I urge to try this new author and the first book in what looks to be a very fun series that has the Luck of the Irish on every page.
Thee laughs are plentiful here, especially with Wiggly Poo, a rambunctious labradoodle that causes so many problems throughout the novel. This pup is one of the many reasons Love and Shenanigans was such a hoot to read!
Fiona returns to Ballybeg for her cousin, Muireann's wedding. Fiona and the bride don't get along at all, but Fiona sucks it up and doesn't want to cause a problem. Soon she'll be on her grand holiday to Australia. Her cousin's husband to be is, Gavin, a man Fiona has known for most of her life, and who she once had a crush on. She finds out right before the wedding that she is still married to Gavin. A few years ago she and Gavin ended up in Las Vegas, got drunk and married by Elvis. They didn't think it was the real deal and forgot about it. It has come back to bite them big time. Now Gavin is in the dog house, so to speak, because Muireann hates him, and her powerful, rich father wants to ruin him. Fiona has her own problems because her beloved Aunt Bridie, who took Fiona in after her parents died in a horrible car crash, has an accident and can't run her bookstore. Fiona takes over for Bridie and stays in Ballybeg until she and Gavin can get an annulment or divorce.
Gavin's life has come crashing down, and he might have no choice to give into Muireann father's demands for retribution if he wants to still have his respect and a career. He starts spending more time with Fiona, which in turns makes him second guess everything about himself and what he thought he had with Muireann, who has conveniently skipped town to recover from her botched wedding. It's not surprising Fiona and Gavin rekindle their romance, which should be so wrong, but feels so right to them. Perhaps these two should stay married and see what their future holds?
Love and Shenanigans is romantic comedy gold. I can't count the number of times I laughed out loud. There is drama, tension, a mystery regarding Fiona's grandmother's will and if Wiggly Poo will ever behave. Everything is wrapped up in a near perfect HEA bow, which I loved.
I'm definitely on the Zara Keane fan bandwagon. I knew Zara when she first started as book blogger, who then turned author. I'm so happy she made the leap, and has done it very well.
I urge to try this new author and the first book in what looks to be a very fun series that has the Luck of the Irish on every page.
April 15, 2015
Love and Shenanigans is the first book in the Ballybeg series by new to me author Zara Keane. This book introduces the reader to two wonderful characters, Fiona Byrne and Gavin Maguire and many other supporting characters in and around the charming town of Ballybeg. Fiona has come to Ballybeg to participate in her cousin, Muireann’s wedding to Gavin. Fiona has been in love with Gavin for as long as she can remember and after a drunken one night stand in Vegas 8 years before, Fiona knows that Gavin does not feel the same for her. As if that humiliation isn’t bad enough, Fiona experiences the ultimate fashion emergency which exposes her backside to Gavin. On the morning of the wedding, Fiona and her best friend discover that the drunken night Fiona and Gavin had in Vegas was actually a drunken wedding night. As soon as Fiona discovers she and Gavin are married, she tries to do the right thing, even when unforeseen events cause her to extend her stay in Ballybeg, postponing her world trip adventure to Singapore and Australia.
I really enjoyed this story. The story moves smoothly and I did not want to put the book down. This book had so many laugh out loud moments and also includes a little bit of a mystery surrounding Fiona’s grandmother’s last will and testament. Add in some very hot and sensual passion between Gavin and Fiona and you have a book that has it all.
The author does a fabulous job of bringing these characters to life. As a reader, it is important to me to feel connected to the characters. Fiona and Gavin were wonderful and easy to relate to. Ms. Keane takes it one step further and does a brilliant job of bringing the less desirable characters to life that elicited strong feelings of dislike. I could not stand Fiona’s cousin Muireann initially. I found her to be selfish, vain and spoiled. By the end of the book, I felt sorry for her, but not enough to go out of my way to help her. She may be redeemable in the future but not her father. Fiona’s Uncle Bernard is truly despicable and I wouldn’t wish him as a father-in-law on anyone. Fiona’s Aunt Bridie was wonderful and I loved the bond she and Fiona share. I loved that the characters in this book are not afraid to speak their mind, no matter how profane their thoughts or with fear of who they may offend.
My Final Verdict: This is a wonderful start to a series that will be a fun adventure in reading. I am looking forward to getting to know more of the characters and reading their stories, especially Gavin’s friend, Jonas and Fiona’s friend, Olivia. If you are looking for a book that will make you laugh and fan yourself at the same time, give Love And Shenanigans a try.
Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy of Love And Shenanigans from the author in exchange for an honest review.
I really enjoyed this story. The story moves smoothly and I did not want to put the book down. This book had so many laugh out loud moments and also includes a little bit of a mystery surrounding Fiona’s grandmother’s last will and testament. Add in some very hot and sensual passion between Gavin and Fiona and you have a book that has it all.
The author does a fabulous job of bringing these characters to life. As a reader, it is important to me to feel connected to the characters. Fiona and Gavin were wonderful and easy to relate to. Ms. Keane takes it one step further and does a brilliant job of bringing the less desirable characters to life that elicited strong feelings of dislike. I could not stand Fiona’s cousin Muireann initially. I found her to be selfish, vain and spoiled. By the end of the book, I felt sorry for her, but not enough to go out of my way to help her. She may be redeemable in the future but not her father. Fiona’s Uncle Bernard is truly despicable and I wouldn’t wish him as a father-in-law on anyone. Fiona’s Aunt Bridie was wonderful and I loved the bond she and Fiona share. I loved that the characters in this book are not afraid to speak their mind, no matter how profane their thoughts or with fear of who they may offend.
My Final Verdict: This is a wonderful start to a series that will be a fun adventure in reading. I am looking forward to getting to know more of the characters and reading their stories, especially Gavin’s friend, Jonas and Fiona’s friend, Olivia. If you are looking for a book that will make you laugh and fan yourself at the same time, give Love And Shenanigans a try.
Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy of Love And Shenanigans from the author in exchange for an honest review.
July 3, 2014
Loved this book. I laughed so much in this fun quirky romance book that my sides hurt. Gavin is a stick in the mud. well let's rephrase he is a fun, easy going quirky guy that is hiding in the persona of stick in the mud. He is trying so hard not to be like his mom that he loses himself in the process. One night eight years ago he marries Fiona and than forgets about it thinking it was taken care of. Uh nope! And that is just one of the fun things in this book. How that comes out will have you hoot and hollar.
Fiona is the cousin of Muireann. Muireann the stuffy, snooty, snotty I am rich and can have anything I want, whiny and who has Gavin do whatever she wants because all he wants is quiet and peace in his life, is engaged to Gavin and boy is she a handful. She treats people like objects and really I don't think Muireann and Gavin love each other I think it was more for Gavin at least a way to just exist without ripples. Muireann's dad, Bernard is a asshat. Total and complete jerk. He's manipulative as well.
So those are some highlights of the characters. Muireann gets a dog wiggly poo yes that's its name and hoists it on Gavin who is allergic to dogs but this one he takes a shining too. She finds out about Fiona and Gavin at her wedding to him in the church and all heck breaks loose. This is after wiggly poo has eaten his suit for the wedding and he is dressed in a Elvis outfit for the wedding that Fiona crashed in her bunny slippers. So now we have a wedding crashed and broken up. gavin kind of now becomes a jerk and Fiona becomes more fiesty. Muireann becomes herself and what she does to Gavin's stuff is horrid. Bernard her dad is trying now to destroy Gavin. Now Gavin has to pay for the wedding, the house he didn't want, has no job and is married to the fun and fiesty Fiona.
All the while Fiona is supposed to be on a dream trip but her aunt needs a hip replacement and needs someone to run her bookshop. the shop that is going down hill. In the meantime, they are struggling and her uncle Bernard has all the family money but her aunt tells Fiona her suspicions and this gets Fiona in a dander and she starts to look into the will of her grandmother.
While this is going on Gavin and Fiona are getting to know each other again and Gavin is beginning to find himself as well. He is learning that he was stifled and Fiona is helping him to become alive again. They grow close and Gavin falls for her. Fiona though tries to protect her heart and does a boneheaded move. But Gavin has none of that.
Their are other shenanigans and blunders of fun and mayhem along the way to their happily ever after. A book that will seriously have you genuinely smile until it hurts and laugh those deep howls that have the jowels jiggle and wiggle. A fun romance that will be devoured like water in a desert and have you wanting more.
Fiona is the cousin of Muireann. Muireann the stuffy, snooty, snotty I am rich and can have anything I want, whiny and who has Gavin do whatever she wants because all he wants is quiet and peace in his life, is engaged to Gavin and boy is she a handful. She treats people like objects and really I don't think Muireann and Gavin love each other I think it was more for Gavin at least a way to just exist without ripples. Muireann's dad, Bernard is a asshat. Total and complete jerk. He's manipulative as well.
So those are some highlights of the characters. Muireann gets a dog wiggly poo yes that's its name and hoists it on Gavin who is allergic to dogs but this one he takes a shining too. She finds out about Fiona and Gavin at her wedding to him in the church and all heck breaks loose. This is after wiggly poo has eaten his suit for the wedding and he is dressed in a Elvis outfit for the wedding that Fiona crashed in her bunny slippers. So now we have a wedding crashed and broken up. gavin kind of now becomes a jerk and Fiona becomes more fiesty. Muireann becomes herself and what she does to Gavin's stuff is horrid. Bernard her dad is trying now to destroy Gavin. Now Gavin has to pay for the wedding, the house he didn't want, has no job and is married to the fun and fiesty Fiona.
All the while Fiona is supposed to be on a dream trip but her aunt needs a hip replacement and needs someone to run her bookshop. the shop that is going down hill. In the meantime, they are struggling and her uncle Bernard has all the family money but her aunt tells Fiona her suspicions and this gets Fiona in a dander and she starts to look into the will of her grandmother.
While this is going on Gavin and Fiona are getting to know each other again and Gavin is beginning to find himself as well. He is learning that he was stifled and Fiona is helping him to become alive again. They grow close and Gavin falls for her. Fiona though tries to protect her heart and does a boneheaded move. But Gavin has none of that.
Their are other shenanigans and blunders of fun and mayhem along the way to their happily ever after. A book that will seriously have you genuinely smile until it hurts and laugh those deep howls that have the jowels jiggle and wiggle. A fun romance that will be devoured like water in a desert and have you wanting more.
June 13, 2015
Keane had me laughing from the first page to the very last. She also works some very heartfelt and touching moments into this remarkably unique tale. Her writing style is smooth and the story flows steadily forward. The storyline itself was captivating and unique. She had me guessing throughout. I appreciate the fact that, although definitely one of a kind, the romance within the story was genuine, even if it was just as off kilter as the characters themselves.
The main characters in this novel are absolutely priceless. They definitely drive the story. They were easy to get to know and easy to connect with. I appreciate how the author shows both sides of the story. Having the ‘inside scoop’ from each of them heightens the excitement and enjoyment of the tale. I appreciate the fact that the main characters are down to earth. The fact that they are surrounded by individuals from all walks of life, connected by the small town they grew up in adds to the fun of the story.
Family, friends, hardship, and lore all make an appearance in this loveable & captivating novel. It was a phenomenal read that I would recommend to those who enjoy second chance romances. I know I certainly did. I cannot wait to read the second novel in this series.
Please note that I received a complimentary copy of this work in exchange for an honest review.
The main characters in this novel are absolutely priceless. They definitely drive the story. They were easy to get to know and easy to connect with. I appreciate how the author shows both sides of the story. Having the ‘inside scoop’ from each of them heightens the excitement and enjoyment of the tale. I appreciate the fact that the main characters are down to earth. The fact that they are surrounded by individuals from all walks of life, connected by the small town they grew up in adds to the fun of the story.
Family, friends, hardship, and lore all make an appearance in this loveable & captivating novel. It was a phenomenal read that I would recommend to those who enjoy second chance romances. I know I certainly did. I cannot wait to read the second novel in this series.
Please note that I received a complimentary copy of this work in exchange for an honest review.
Want to read
November 5, 2017FREE on Amazon today (11/05/2017)!
May 7, 2021
A fun read, for the most part
January 17, 2017
Good read
Good story with lite humor and interesting characters. I loved Fiona with her 'feck the lot of you' attitude. Her strength, in not only showing up but in sticking around, makes her admirable. Olivia and Jonas are both great friends and I can't wait to read their story. Gavin was okay but I don't think his reasons for wanting bland, stable and secure over passionate and loving were explained. I added my interpretation with what little is offered and can understand why but would have been better if it was outlined. His character was weak, which is fine( not everyone can be alpha) making Fiona the real hero!
Good story with lite humor and interesting characters. I loved Fiona with her 'feck the lot of you' attitude. Her strength, in not only showing up but in sticking around, makes her admirable. Olivia and Jonas are both great friends and I can't wait to read their story. Gavin was okay but I don't think his reasons for wanting bland, stable and secure over passionate and loving were explained. I added my interpretation with what little is offered and can understand why but would have been better if it was outlined. His character was weak, which is fine( not everyone can be alpha) making Fiona the real hero!
Read
April 25, 2018I really liked this one and great series starter.
August 3, 2016
When the book opened with the hero's mother texting him she's to busy on the farm to come to his wedding, on the day before the wedding, I knew this wasn't going to be a contemporary romance like any others I've read. And if I thought the groom-to-be's mother was unlikeable...shortly after, I met his fiancée and her parents and was proven it could be even worse. But rest assured, not all family members/secondary characters were . I really liked Aunt Bridie and friends Olivia (Fiona's) and Jonas (Gavin's). Also I must admit someone I wasn't expecting was redeemed in my eyes and I hope this person (cryptic but don't want to give spoilers) gets their HEA somewhere along time too.
After reading a bunch of erotic romances in a row this book was a refreshing welcome. Romance, contemporary romance doesn't always need sexing up to be entertaining. When done right the story, the journey the characters take from the beginning of the book to their HEA and the sensual tension is enough to keep me turning the pages.
LOVE AND SHENANIGANS reminded me of the romances I used to read when I was much younger, the Penny Jordan's and the Sara Craven's. The focus was on the relationships, not only between the hero and heroine but also their relationships with friends and family. I loved all the small plotlines going on next to the romance, like the bookstore and the stuff with the will.
Zara Keane made the small town of Ballybeg come to life for me with her lovely descriptions. Normally I'm not much for descriptive writing as it often hinders the pace and takes me out of the story but in LOVE AND SHENANIGANS it was very well-dosed, functional and complemented the story perfectly. I really liked the writing, it was crisp and clean with an easy flow to it. Funny moments alternated with more emotional and romantic ones, making it a joy to read.
LOVE AND SHENANIGANS is a sweet contemporary romance that's a tad heavier on the storylines than on the romance, especially in the first part of the book . It is wonderfully written with great characters that left me wanting more and luckily for me there will be more!
Favorite Quotes:
“Nowadays, every female over the age of twelve is going around with bare bellies and bosoms on display.”
“Now, Bridie,” Olivia said with a wicked grin. “Surely not every female over the age of twelve. I’m sure the ladies of the Ballybeg House and Crafts Society would be scandalized to learn one of their leading members was displaying her blubber to the world. Are you planning on starting a trend?”
A chortle resounded in Bridie’s throat. “Blubber? Why, I’ll give you blubber!” She pulled up her plus-size blouse and grabbed a substantial handful of flesh from around her midriff. “This, here, is what a genuine Irish woman looks like. If you two had eaten a decent meal of meat and potatoes every day when you were growing up, you wouldn’t be the scrawny beanpoles you are today.”
“Ah, Fiona. Isn’t the knight in shining armor supposed to slay the dragon and rescue the princess?”
She gave him a playful shove. “You’re reading the wrong fairytales, Maguire. In Celtic mythology, the heroines kick arse.”
After reading a bunch of erotic romances in a row this book was a refreshing welcome. Romance, contemporary romance doesn't always need sexing up to be entertaining. When done right the story, the journey the characters take from the beginning of the book to their HEA and the sensual tension is enough to keep me turning the pages.
LOVE AND SHENANIGANS reminded me of the romances I used to read when I was much younger, the Penny Jordan's and the Sara Craven's. The focus was on the relationships, not only between the hero and heroine but also their relationships with friends and family. I loved all the small plotlines going on next to the romance, like the bookstore and the stuff with the will.
Zara Keane made the small town of Ballybeg come to life for me with her lovely descriptions. Normally I'm not much for descriptive writing as it often hinders the pace and takes me out of the story but in LOVE AND SHENANIGANS it was very well-dosed, functional and complemented the story perfectly. I really liked the writing, it was crisp and clean with an easy flow to it. Funny moments alternated with more emotional and romantic ones, making it a joy to read.
LOVE AND SHENANIGANS is a sweet contemporary romance that's a tad heavier on the storylines than on the romance, especially in the first part of the book . It is wonderfully written with great characters that left me wanting more and luckily for me there will be more!
Favorite Quotes:
“Nowadays, every female over the age of twelve is going around with bare bellies and bosoms on display.”
“Now, Bridie,” Olivia said with a wicked grin. “Surely not every female over the age of twelve. I’m sure the ladies of the Ballybeg House and Crafts Society would be scandalized to learn one of their leading members was displaying her blubber to the world. Are you planning on starting a trend?”
A chortle resounded in Bridie’s throat. “Blubber? Why, I’ll give you blubber!” She pulled up her plus-size blouse and grabbed a substantial handful of flesh from around her midriff. “This, here, is what a genuine Irish woman looks like. If you two had eaten a decent meal of meat and potatoes every day when you were growing up, you wouldn’t be the scrawny beanpoles you are today.”
“Ah, Fiona. Isn’t the knight in shining armor supposed to slay the dragon and rescue the princess?”
She gave him a playful shove. “You’re reading the wrong fairytales, Maguire. In Celtic mythology, the heroines kick arse.”
December 27, 2014
It was the synopsis for Love and Shananigans and the fact the story took place in Ireland that got my attention. I don't often read and review unsolicited titles but I decided to take a chance on this one, and I'm so very glad that I did. Love and Shananigans might just end up on my favorite reads of 2014 list.
The action starts off days before the wedding, with the ladies trying on their typical hideous dresses. I couldn't help but like Fiona from the start, with her quick wit, and fairly forgiving nature. It's a fun scene, made even more interesting with the arrival of the Gavin, the groom and his new pet labradoodle, Wiggly Poo. Yeah, that name made me cringe-laugh every time I read it.
Fiona and Gavin have some history and when the truth comes out, the wedding is off, Gavin's almost-inlaws put the screws to him in major way, and Fiona ends up having to stay in Ballybeg for while, missing her long-awaited vacation.
When Fiona ends up in a cottage next door to Gavin, they can't deny the connection they had years ago. But eight years is a long time and both have different goals for themselves and it becomes a story of choices for Gavin and Fiona.
I really loved both of the main characters. Gavin is sweetly romantic with Fiona, and Fiona is a strong woman that knows her own mind. There's a spark between them from their very first moment together, and they jumped off the page for me in a really pleasant way.
There is a lightness to all of this that just makes Love and Shenanigans more romantic comedy than drama and I really loved that about this story. I just felt good while I was reading this. It was refreshing and fun and made me want to keep turning the page.
Recommended.
The action starts off days before the wedding, with the ladies trying on their typical hideous dresses. I couldn't help but like Fiona from the start, with her quick wit, and fairly forgiving nature. It's a fun scene, made even more interesting with the arrival of the Gavin, the groom and his new pet labradoodle, Wiggly Poo. Yeah, that name made me cringe-laugh every time I read it.
Fiona and Gavin have some history and when the truth comes out, the wedding is off, Gavin's almost-inlaws put the screws to him in major way, and Fiona ends up having to stay in Ballybeg for while, missing her long-awaited vacation.
When Fiona ends up in a cottage next door to Gavin, they can't deny the connection they had years ago. But eight years is a long time and both have different goals for themselves and it becomes a story of choices for Gavin and Fiona.
I really loved both of the main characters. Gavin is sweetly romantic with Fiona, and Fiona is a strong woman that knows her own mind. There's a spark between them from their very first moment together, and they jumped off the page for me in a really pleasant way.
There is a lightness to all of this that just makes Love and Shenanigans more romantic comedy than drama and I really loved that about this story. I just felt good while I was reading this. It was refreshing and fun and made me want to keep turning the page.
Recommended.
April 27, 2014
Gavin that boy sometimes doesn't realize how his words affect others, "it's true," Gavin said. "It was just a one-night stand." Fiona teetered as though he'd punched her." But that boy sure has the hots for Fiona, "naughty dog," Fiona said, scooping him up and lifting him far away from the tray of buns. "I'm no expert, but I'd wager those are not part of your puppy diet plan." Wiggly Poo licked her face. Gavin's loins tightened. He shifted uncomfortably and tried to think of ice-cold plunge pools. Aw, man. he was a hopeless case. How could he be envious of a dog?" He can be persuasive, "come one. Just for a few minutes." He took her arm and kissed her wrist the way he knew she liked. He slid her shirt up her arm and feathered kisses all the way to the crook of her elbow." He's a curious boy when it comes to Fiona's undergarments, "ah." He groaned and moved his hands beneath her t-shirt, emitting a low laugh when he reached her bra and traced it's familiar lacy pattern. "Dare I hope this is the sexy red lace bra with the matching knickers?" This was such a fun read, I enjoyed every minute of it.
November 7, 2016
A fun light romance feel good story with a bookstore and a cafe in a small town. – what more can you ask? Drink your coffee and read a book?
There was a nice flowing style and just for a change, a Goth heroine with various piercings and tattoos.
She is tall and curvy curly with dark hair versus straight fair hair which trumps small and petite, in the story.
This is the first in a series of 5 books about the characters in the town.
There is one small wrinkle that – although it set the story line – I found unrealistic. The hip replacement element.
Hip replacements are not considered serious surgery. There are no such things as Nursing/Convalescent Homes these days after hospital – it is considered much better to go home(after around 4 days) as you recover better in familiar surroundings – with familiar germs! And a hip replacement is easy to recover from in that the physio is sit down and get up and walk. Repeat. Various leg lifting exercises of course. I speak as someone who has had 3.5 (and counting) knee replacements and am reliably told they are more difficult to recover from. Yet within 3 months I was walking well – and 64 is young for a hip replacement.
There was a nice flowing style and just for a change, a Goth heroine with various piercings and tattoos.
She is tall and curvy curly with dark hair versus straight fair hair which trumps small and petite, in the story.
This is the first in a series of 5 books about the characters in the town.
There is one small wrinkle that – although it set the story line – I found unrealistic. The hip replacement element.
Hip replacements are not considered serious surgery. There are no such things as Nursing/Convalescent Homes these days after hospital – it is considered much better to go home(after around 4 days) as you recover better in familiar surroundings – with familiar germs! And a hip replacement is easy to recover from in that the physio is sit down and get up and walk. Repeat. Various leg lifting exercises of course. I speak as someone who has had 3.5 (and counting) knee replacements and am reliably told they are more difficult to recover from. Yet within 3 months I was walking well – and 64 is young for a hip replacement.
November 10, 2014
I loved this, a nice sweet romance about Gavin and Fiona who find out on Gavins wedding day (to Fiona cousin) that they are actually married to each other after a drunken Vegas wedding 8 years ago.
so with a jilted high maintenance bride, a sleazy uncle, a bookshop that's going under plus throw in best friends, a uncontrollable dog, a unplanned pregnancy, Birdie and the major what could possibly go wrong or finally right???
Fiona is a character everyone will enjoy and love, she's a feisty quirky good girl who has been in love with Gavin for years.
Gavin at first I felt like he was a selfish twat with how he spoke to Fiona and blamed her but as him and Fiona spend more time together and feelings were unearthed he's actually not a bad guy at all.
overall for me a short sweet enjoyable romance that everyone girl will enjoy
looking forward to liv and Jonas story :)
so with a jilted high maintenance bride, a sleazy uncle, a bookshop that's going under plus throw in best friends, a uncontrollable dog, a unplanned pregnancy, Birdie and the major what could possibly go wrong or finally right???
Fiona is a character everyone will enjoy and love, she's a feisty quirky good girl who has been in love with Gavin for years.
Gavin at first I felt like he was a selfish twat with how he spoke to Fiona and blamed her but as him and Fiona spend more time together and feelings were unearthed he's actually not a bad guy at all.
overall for me a short sweet enjoyable romance that everyone girl will enjoy
looking forward to liv and Jonas story :)
December 7, 2014
Love and Shenanigans is the first of the terrific Ballybeg series. Love the Irish setting--it's authentic, surprising, non-sentimental and always held my interest. The story--and history--between Gavin and Fiona was a tad over-the-top for me but it held my interest none the less.
There were some very funny scenes--here's one:
"Didja plan today as revenge?" Gavin sloshed whiskey down her formerly white suit.
Fiona sucked in a breath. What an arsehole. Did he seriously think she'd go to such extremes to get one up on Muireann? "No," she snapped. "I did not . Oddly enough, I have no desire to be married to you, not even to humiliate my cousin. Not to worry, Gavin. As usual, it's all about you."
*received a review copy in exchange for an honest review*
There were some very funny scenes--here's one:
"Didja plan today as revenge?" Gavin sloshed whiskey down her formerly white suit.
Fiona sucked in a breath. What an arsehole. Did he seriously think she'd go to such extremes to get one up on Muireann? "No," she snapped. "I did not . Oddly enough, I have no desire to be married to you, not even to humiliate my cousin. Not to worry, Gavin. As usual, it's all about you."
*received a review copy in exchange for an honest review*
May 26, 2014
ARC provided by author in exchange for honest review.
Enjoyable story with a few quirky characters, but this should come with a disclaimer that the Irish dialect is very prevalent in this book, so there were a lot of times I had to stop and look up with the word or phrase meant. There also could have been more background info on some of the characters, like Gavin for instance (there's mention of him moving to Ballybeg in his youth, but where did he move from?). Still an enjoyable book and I look forward to reading the next couple of stories in the series.
Enjoyable story with a few quirky characters, but this should come with a disclaimer that the Irish dialect is very prevalent in this book, so there were a lot of times I had to stop and look up with the word or phrase meant. There also could have been more background info on some of the characters, like Gavin for instance (there's mention of him moving to Ballybeg in his youth, but where did he move from?). Still an enjoyable book and I look forward to reading the next couple of stories in the series.
February 22, 2016
2.5 Stars; but definitely see where others would rate this a 3 stars. Do I round up or down? I skimmed a lot so I rounded down.
I was looking for a cute, quick chic lit romance that would be more fun than challenging. I was hoping this would work, but found myself skimming as the pace seemed slow.
There were definitely some cute scenes which is what I wanted but somehow it didn't work for me.
I was looking for a cute, quick chic lit romance that would be more fun than challenging. I was hoping this would work, but found myself skimming as the pace seemed slow.
There were definitely some cute scenes which is what I wanted but somehow it didn't work for me.
January 10, 2015
Quickie review.
Totes adorbs. That is all. Big girl heroine with a sense of humor, a sense of gratitude to an aunt that raised her, and a sense of responsibility.
A hero that was willing to settle for "good enough" and reality brought him "the best that will ever be."
Well written, well paced, and well done.
Totes adorbs. That is all. Big girl heroine with a sense of humor, a sense of gratitude to an aunt that raised her, and a sense of responsibility.
A hero that was willing to settle for "good enough" and reality brought him "the best that will ever be."
Well written, well paced, and well done.
March 7, 2016
This story outline was unbelievable and odd. The whole loveless relationship between Gavin and Murieann suddenly comes to light. Then the typical feud between the cousins Murieann and Fiona- it's so easy to pick sides.
August 14, 2015
This Irish tale was fecken good! :) Check out the full blog review: http://getyoursmuton.com/2015/08/10/r...
March 3, 2017
Cute and funny and kinda ridiculous - just what I needed. Review to come.
August 2, 2019
**This review contains spoilers**
For me, this book was just ok and I'm going to explain why. Let me preface this review by saying that the author actually writes really well. It was "easy reading" and she has a great sense of humour. This review is not intended to put people off reading it, or to slate the author in any way. It's just that if I were an author I'd want to know exactly what it was that put people off. Constructive criticism if you will...so here it is:
Firstly, the book was very slow getting to the romance part between the main characters. They only actually kiss around the 50% mark and then it's still a while before they acknowledge that something is happening between them. That made it feel very slow moving.
Secondly, there were certain things that Gavin said that would just be a huge red flag for me and NOT what I want to read in a romance novel. The first was near the end of the book when Fiona asks Gavin if actually ever loved Muireann (because he had been talking about their passionless relationship) and he replies "No, I did love her. Part of me still does." I'm sorry, but Muireann was a complete witch and it bothers me that he never sees that. I would never be okay being with a guy that admits that part of him still loves his ex!!! It doesn't matter that he goes on to say those feelings are tepid compared to what he feels for Fiona. It's a deal-breaker for me.
The next thing she asks him is "Will you go back to her if she's pregnant with your child?" and he says "Yes, if she'll have me" and goes on to explain he doesn't want to be a part-time dad. So not only does he admit to still having feelings for his ex, but he also says he'd go back to her if she's pregnant with his child. If a guy really truly loves a woman, he would never leave her because his ex was pregnant. He would make a co-parenting plan. I think it was supposed to come across as the "selfless" option, but instead it completely made me doubt his feelings for Fiona. I thought about all my favourite book couples, Eva and Gideon, Nikki and Damien, Brooke and Remy, Liam and Lee...none of those men would have left the woman they loved because their ex was pregnant because they loved them to the point of obsession. You could feel the love on those pages. I didn't feel that here with Gavin and Fiona and then he goes and says this. It just made me feel pretty "blah" about them as a couple.
I'd definitely read another book of hers, because she does write well, I just hope the characters don't disappoint as much.
For me, this book was just ok and I'm going to explain why. Let me preface this review by saying that the author actually writes really well. It was "easy reading" and she has a great sense of humour. This review is not intended to put people off reading it, or to slate the author in any way. It's just that if I were an author I'd want to know exactly what it was that put people off. Constructive criticism if you will...so here it is:
Firstly, the book was very slow getting to the romance part between the main characters. They only actually kiss around the 50% mark and then it's still a while before they acknowledge that something is happening between them. That made it feel very slow moving.
Secondly, there were certain things that Gavin said that would just be a huge red flag for me and NOT what I want to read in a romance novel. The first was near the end of the book when Fiona asks Gavin if actually ever loved Muireann (because he had been talking about their passionless relationship) and he replies "No, I did love her. Part of me still does." I'm sorry, but Muireann was a complete witch and it bothers me that he never sees that. I would never be okay being with a guy that admits that part of him still loves his ex!!! It doesn't matter that he goes on to say those feelings are tepid compared to what he feels for Fiona. It's a deal-breaker for me.
The next thing she asks him is "Will you go back to her if she's pregnant with your child?" and he says "Yes, if she'll have me" and goes on to explain he doesn't want to be a part-time dad. So not only does he admit to still having feelings for his ex, but he also says he'd go back to her if she's pregnant with his child. If a guy really truly loves a woman, he would never leave her because his ex was pregnant. He would make a co-parenting plan. I think it was supposed to come across as the "selfless" option, but instead it completely made me doubt his feelings for Fiona. I thought about all my favourite book couples, Eva and Gideon, Nikki and Damien, Brooke and Remy, Liam and Lee...none of those men would have left the woman they loved because their ex was pregnant because they loved them to the point of obsession. You could feel the love on those pages. I didn't feel that here with Gavin and Fiona and then he goes and says this. It just made me feel pretty "blah" about them as a couple.
I'd definitely read another book of hers, because she does write well, I just hope the characters don't disappoint as much.
August 28, 2017
TTitle: Love and Shenanigans - Ballybeg Series Book 1
Author: Zara Keane
Publisher: Beaverstone Press LLC
Published: 5-16-2014
Pages: 372
Genre: Women's Fiction
Sub-Genre: Romance, Holidays Sagas, Literature & Fiction
ISBN: 9782906245003
ASIN: B00KE98RP2
Reviewed For NetGalley and Beaverstone Press LLC
Reviewer: DelAnne
Rating: 3.5 Stars
Falling for the groom…
Three days before leaving Ireland on the adventure of a lifetime, Fiona Byrne returns to her hometown to attend the family wedding from hell. When she discovers the drunken vows she exchanged with the groom during a wild Las Vegas trip eight years previously mean they're legally married, her future plans ricochet out of control.
Gavin Maguire's life is low on drama, high on stability, and free of pets. But Gavin hadn't reckoned on Fiona blasting back into his life and crashing his wedding. In the space of twenty-four hours, he loses a fiancée and a job, and gains a wife and a puppy. Can he salvage his bland-but-stable life? More importantly, can he resist losing his heart to Fiona all over again?
The scenic descriptions of Ireland took me back they were so well done, but the characters were a bit too free with their favors after indulging a bit too much. I found Gavin a bit over the top. All in all I found the overall story not to my first choice. I prefer a touch of paranormal in my romance, but found myself a bit disappointed.
My rating of "Love and Shenanigans - Ballybeg Series Book 1" is 3.5 out of 5 stars.
Amazon Link: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00KE98RP2/...
B&N Link: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/love...
Books-A-Million Link: http://www.booksamillion.com/p/Love-S...
Google Play Link: Not Available
Indigo Link: Not Available
Kobo Link: Not Available
GoodReads Link: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/3...
The Reading Room Link: https://www.facebook.com/permalink.ph...
Twitter Link: https://twitter.com/DelAnne531/status...
Author: Zara Keane
Publisher: Beaverstone Press LLC
Published: 5-16-2014
Pages: 372
Genre: Women's Fiction
Sub-Genre: Romance, Holidays Sagas, Literature & Fiction
ISBN: 9782906245003
ASIN: B00KE98RP2
Reviewed For NetGalley and Beaverstone Press LLC
Reviewer: DelAnne
Rating: 3.5 Stars
Falling for the groom…
Three days before leaving Ireland on the adventure of a lifetime, Fiona Byrne returns to her hometown to attend the family wedding from hell. When she discovers the drunken vows she exchanged with the groom during a wild Las Vegas trip eight years previously mean they're legally married, her future plans ricochet out of control.
Gavin Maguire's life is low on drama, high on stability, and free of pets. But Gavin hadn't reckoned on Fiona blasting back into his life and crashing his wedding. In the space of twenty-four hours, he loses a fiancée and a job, and gains a wife and a puppy. Can he salvage his bland-but-stable life? More importantly, can he resist losing his heart to Fiona all over again?
The scenic descriptions of Ireland took me back they were so well done, but the characters were a bit too free with their favors after indulging a bit too much. I found Gavin a bit over the top. All in all I found the overall story not to my first choice. I prefer a touch of paranormal in my romance, but found myself a bit disappointed.
My rating of "Love and Shenanigans - Ballybeg Series Book 1" is 3.5 out of 5 stars.
Amazon Link: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00KE98RP2/...
B&N Link: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/love...
Books-A-Million Link: http://www.booksamillion.com/p/Love-S...
Google Play Link: Not Available
Indigo Link: Not Available
Kobo Link: Not Available
GoodReads Link: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/3...
The Reading Room Link: https://www.facebook.com/permalink.ph...
Twitter Link: https://twitter.com/DelAnne531/status...
April 7, 2018
This was the first Zara Keane book I've read and I absolutely love it! It's written in dual perspectives alternating between Fiona and Gavin. I usually have a hard time getting into books when they're written through the male perspective for some reason —maybe I just don't know how to pick good ones where the guy isn't a jerk?— but this one was extremely easy!
There's a few characters in the book that will be written into the other stories in Zara Keane's Ballybeg series and I'm extremely excited to read those although I did inadvertently spoil myself when it comes to Olivia. I guess that's the downside to discovering series after they've all been written?
I do wish that there had been a pronunciation guide included at the beginning for us non-Gaelic speakers since I had a hard time figuring out how to pronounce names and places in my head but it was nothing that couldn't be fixed by speaking with a new Irish friend! 💚
This was a cute and quick read and I was able to learn more about the Irish culture! I hadn't quite been prepared for the steamy scenes but they weren't out there like they can be in other books! I'm very much looking forward to reading the second one (which is free if you sign up for Zara's newsletter!)
There's a few characters in the book that will be written into the other stories in Zara Keane's Ballybeg series and I'm extremely excited to read those although I did inadvertently spoil myself when it comes to Olivia. I guess that's the downside to discovering series after they've all been written?
I do wish that there had been a pronunciation guide included at the beginning for us non-Gaelic speakers since I had a hard time figuring out how to pronounce names and places in my head but it was nothing that couldn't be fixed by speaking with a new Irish friend! 💚
This was a cute and quick read and I was able to learn more about the Irish culture! I hadn't quite been prepared for the steamy scenes but they weren't out there like they can be in other books! I'm very much looking forward to reading the second one (which is free if you sign up for Zara's newsletter!)
September 20, 2018
2.5 Eh. I almost put it down a few chapters in cause while the H isn't a standard 'asshole, asshole'... He is def an asshole for most of it. By that I mean he isn't mean and nasty, but he can be mean with his obliviousness and comments. Besides which he is marrying the h's cousin and has all sorts of woe is me moments with no consideration for the h or others (which she does actually call him on), he knows he's attracted to the h and the cousin is a bitch and her parents are assholes and he's not all that in love with her and is way more attracted to the h... but he's still going to marry the cousin etc.
I think I've said it in reviews before, I'm not a fan of the leads being blasé about each other. Annoys me when they are all 'I know I want you, but I'm going to not have you because it's too hard or X reason... until everything works out perfectly that I had no option but to have you... So that's great.' I want them moving mountains for each other if that's what's needed. Not just being relieved that they got the one they wanted in the end because all of 'their obstacles' magically disappeared and it won't cost them anything to concede now.
Saying that, if the above isn't a bugbear for you, you'd probably enjoy it enough.
I think I've said it in reviews before, I'm not a fan of the leads being blasé about each other. Annoys me when they are all 'I know I want you, but I'm going to not have you because it's too hard or X reason... until everything works out perfectly that I had no option but to have you... So that's great.' I want them moving mountains for each other if that's what's needed. Not just being relieved that they got the one they wanted in the end because all of 'their obstacles' magically disappeared and it won't cost them anything to concede now.
Saying that, if the above isn't a bugbear for you, you'd probably enjoy it enough.
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