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Hope Springs #3
Love Remains
From the USA Today Bestselling author of the Longing for Home series, LOVE REMAINS is a new romance novel set in the beloved world of Hope Springs.
For nearly a year, Tavish O’Connor has carried the crushing weight of his family’s future on his shoulders. He has taken on the care of his youngest brother, Finbarr, who lost his eyesight in a terrible accident. But the lad needs more than Tavish can provide. Finbarr needs hope.
Cecily Attwater specializes in hope. As a tutor to the newly blind, she has dedicated her life to helping others overcome the obstacles she herself has conquered. Her new assignment in a remote corner of Wyoming proves trickier than usual: Finbarr refuses to learn. To make matters worse, his family—and the other Irish townspeople—are less than thrilled to discover an Englishwoman in their haven.
Cecily’s only hope lies in securing the cooperation of her pupil’s brother, Tavish, who happens to be her harshest critic and quite possibly the most frustrating man she’s ever known.
For Finbarr’s sake, Tavish and Cecily forge an uneasy alliance that, as the weeks pass, tiptoes toward something deeper than either dares admit or face, and toward a future they know to be impossible. There can be no hope of a happy outcome for an Irish man and an English woman amongst a people reeling from violence and centuries of hatred between their two homelands.
For nearly a year, Tavish O’Connor has carried the crushing weight of his family’s future on his shoulders. He has taken on the care of his youngest brother, Finbarr, who lost his eyesight in a terrible accident. But the lad needs more than Tavish can provide. Finbarr needs hope.
Cecily Attwater specializes in hope. As a tutor to the newly blind, she has dedicated her life to helping others overcome the obstacles she herself has conquered. Her new assignment in a remote corner of Wyoming proves trickier than usual: Finbarr refuses to learn. To make matters worse, his family—and the other Irish townspeople—are less than thrilled to discover an Englishwoman in their haven.
Cecily’s only hope lies in securing the cooperation of her pupil’s brother, Tavish, who happens to be her harshest critic and quite possibly the most frustrating man she’s ever known.
For Finbarr’s sake, Tavish and Cecily forge an uneasy alliance that, as the weeks pass, tiptoes toward something deeper than either dares admit or face, and toward a future they know to be impossible. There can be no hope of a happy outcome for an Irish man and an English woman amongst a people reeling from violence and centuries of hatred between their two homelands.
364 pages, Paperback
First published September 1, 2017
133 people are currently reading
1452 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 336 reviews
June 4, 2019
99c Kindle sale, June 3, 2019. If you like sweet historical romances, a Kindle sale on a Sarah Eden novel is definitely worth taking note of. It’s part of a series, but readable on a stand-alone basis (which is what I did).
Set in a small Wyoming town in the late 1800s, this novel deals with some serious themes, the difficulties of going blind and the historic hatred and prejudice between the Irish and the English. It lightens that with a good dose of humorous banter and the importance of family. And I have to admit it brought tears to my eyes a couple of times. 😭 In a good way.
Set in a small Wyoming town in the late 1800s, this novel deals with some serious themes, the difficulties of going blind and the historic hatred and prejudice between the Irish and the English. It lightens that with a good dose of humorous banter and the importance of family. And I have to admit it brought tears to my eyes a couple of times. 😭 In a good way.
August 31, 2017
I feel like I'm a broken record...here I go again. I Loved this book...I Loved this book...I Loved this book. Yes, I know I say that A LOT! So excuse me as I say it again let me say it again...I Loved this book.
Usually I devour books but man alive, this book, well let's just say, it ate me alive. My emotions were pulled in, completely invested in Cecily, snatched away from me, shoved inside the wringer, rung out and left for all to see. I was a bit of a sobbing mess. You know the expression, wears their heart on their sleeve? Yeah that's completely me. Plus I'm a people person through and through. I love meeting people, I love making connections, I love creating new friendships and I've got your back! And yes...I love my literary characters too. I love my book friends! That whole connecting and friends thing, yes it applies to books too!
So when I say this book ate me alive, it did. I have loved this Longing for Home series. When I saw there was a new one coming out, let me just tell you that I was watching that release date for when I could read it. I have the first two books sitting pretty on my bookshelf at home (nestled in with pretty much every Sarah M. Eden book). When I had an email pop up for the chance to read an ARC of this one, you better believe I said YES! I was patiently waiting for the release date to get a little closer before I read and reviewed it and that time has finally come!
I stayed awake a little late last night reading, and yes, sobbing. The tears were pouring down my face. I kept sniffling and trying to hide those sniffles as well. These characters. Oh, how they feel like dear friends and family. Their struggles from the first two books have shifted to different struggles and life altering circumstances that they don't quite know how to cope with, or even know how to grieve and move forward with life. I want to tell you about several of the characters but here's the problem, if you haven't read the first books I might cause major spoilers for you. I don't like giving spoilers so I'm avoiding that.
I will say that there is some pretty thick armor being worn by all these characters. Miss Cecily Attwater has come to town, with her own armor of course, and is trying very diligent to find that little chink in it all. If she can just uncover that maybe, just maybe, her student has a chance at learning how to survive the new circumstances of their life. Otherwise, her own armor will just grow thicker to protect her own heart from defeat.
I know part of my emotions are coming from learning of a dear friend's death last night (she was almost 95 and lived a full life but sad to say goodbye) and another friend struggling right now. So when the scenes came talking about the loved ones who had died and possibly one dying, oh my heart cracked open. Sarah Eden knows how to write characters and show their emotions without writing it word for word. To borrow an Irish phrase, she knows very well how to "Spin a Yarn." These Irish characters and one very English character and a couple very American characters are walking a very fine tightrope, and the balancing pole is everyone's emotions. If too much of one emotion gets in the way, it will all come falling down. Watching, or rather, reading this balancing act and the healing that must occur to lighten the emotional pole was beautiful. It was rough, and heart wrenching at times but beautiful.
I'm fine and emotions are under control now but for a little bit there, I let my armor down and let these characters into my heart for some good soul cleansing crying, and good emotional healing.
"This is a difficult world with strength of character, and an impossible one without it." "That is the truth, and no denying it," Biddy said. "I also advocate for humility enough to accept help when it is needed and offered."
Content: Clean. Some sweet kisses, a few moments of peril but nothing graphic. I'd recommend for lover's of historical fiction, clean romances, and just beautiful soul searching feel good reads. I Loved it (would somebody stop that broken record please)! ;-)
I received an ARC from the publisher. All thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.
Happy Reading!!!
Usually I devour books but man alive, this book, well let's just say, it ate me alive. My emotions were pulled in, completely invested in Cecily, snatched away from me, shoved inside the wringer, rung out and left for all to see. I was a bit of a sobbing mess. You know the expression, wears their heart on their sleeve? Yeah that's completely me. Plus I'm a people person through and through. I love meeting people, I love making connections, I love creating new friendships and I've got your back! And yes...I love my literary characters too. I love my book friends! That whole connecting and friends thing, yes it applies to books too!
So when I say this book ate me alive, it did. I have loved this Longing for Home series. When I saw there was a new one coming out, let me just tell you that I was watching that release date for when I could read it. I have the first two books sitting pretty on my bookshelf at home (nestled in with pretty much every Sarah M. Eden book). When I had an email pop up for the chance to read an ARC of this one, you better believe I said YES! I was patiently waiting for the release date to get a little closer before I read and reviewed it and that time has finally come!
I stayed awake a little late last night reading, and yes, sobbing. The tears were pouring down my face. I kept sniffling and trying to hide those sniffles as well. These characters. Oh, how they feel like dear friends and family. Their struggles from the first two books have shifted to different struggles and life altering circumstances that they don't quite know how to cope with, or even know how to grieve and move forward with life. I want to tell you about several of the characters but here's the problem, if you haven't read the first books I might cause major spoilers for you. I don't like giving spoilers so I'm avoiding that.
I will say that there is some pretty thick armor being worn by all these characters. Miss Cecily Attwater has come to town, with her own armor of course, and is trying very diligent to find that little chink in it all. If she can just uncover that maybe, just maybe, her student has a chance at learning how to survive the new circumstances of their life. Otherwise, her own armor will just grow thicker to protect her own heart from defeat.
I know part of my emotions are coming from learning of a dear friend's death last night (she was almost 95 and lived a full life but sad to say goodbye) and another friend struggling right now. So when the scenes came talking about the loved ones who had died and possibly one dying, oh my heart cracked open. Sarah Eden knows how to write characters and show their emotions without writing it word for word. To borrow an Irish phrase, she knows very well how to "Spin a Yarn." These Irish characters and one very English character and a couple very American characters are walking a very fine tightrope, and the balancing pole is everyone's emotions. If too much of one emotion gets in the way, it will all come falling down. Watching, or rather, reading this balancing act and the healing that must occur to lighten the emotional pole was beautiful. It was rough, and heart wrenching at times but beautiful.
I'm fine and emotions are under control now but for a little bit there, I let my armor down and let these characters into my heart for some good soul cleansing crying, and good emotional healing.
"This is a difficult world with strength of character, and an impossible one without it." "That is the truth, and no denying it," Biddy said. "I also advocate for humility enough to accept help when it is needed and offered."
Content: Clean. Some sweet kisses, a few moments of peril but nothing graphic. I'd recommend for lover's of historical fiction, clean romances, and just beautiful soul searching feel good reads. I Loved it (would somebody stop that broken record please)! ;-)
I received an ARC from the publisher. All thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.
Happy Reading!!!
September 14, 2017
Okay, in order to prep for reading this book I read the first two in the series (I had read the first book back when it was released, and hadn't read the second book yet) and then read Love Remains... all in two days. It was pretty awesome so be so immersed in Hope Springs, Wyoming for three books in a row! As much I I love Katie from Longing for Home, there was so much anxiety and almost a feeling of hopelessness in the circumstances of the feuding town. Love Remains takes place after the feud is resolved so I didn't feel so heavy reading it and was more focused on Tavish and Cecily. It's definitely my favorite of the series and can be read well as a stand-alone, although reading the series in order gives you a better sense of the town and all the characters in the O'Connor family and community, as well as the history there.
I loved that this third book delves into the deeper layers of Tavish and his struggles. He is so charming and ready to make the people around him laugh and smile, but he's not as light-hearted as he seems. Cecily is straight-forward and blunt, the nature of her job has her telling things as she sees them. She has so much confidence, and yet has hidden vulnerabilities that surface during her time in Hope Springs with the O'Connors. There has been so much loss and heartbreak, and dealing with grief is a major theme of the book. I was brought to tears no less than three times, and was touched by the emotion that permeates from the characters and story. But don't worry, there is plenty of humor and sweetness in this love story between two people who are initially frustrated with each other, then align purposes and form a friendship that develops into more as their attraction grows and they provide support in each other's most heart-wrenching moments.
(I received a complimentary copy of the book; all opinions in this review are my own)
I loved that this third book delves into the deeper layers of Tavish and his struggles. He is so charming and ready to make the people around him laugh and smile, but he's not as light-hearted as he seems. Cecily is straight-forward and blunt, the nature of her job has her telling things as she sees them. She has so much confidence, and yet has hidden vulnerabilities that surface during her time in Hope Springs with the O'Connors. There has been so much loss and heartbreak, and dealing with grief is a major theme of the book. I was brought to tears no less than three times, and was touched by the emotion that permeates from the characters and story. But don't worry, there is plenty of humor and sweetness in this love story between two people who are initially frustrated with each other, then align purposes and form a friendship that develops into more as their attraction grows and they provide support in each other's most heart-wrenching moments.
(I received a complimentary copy of the book; all opinions in this review are my own)
July 10, 2017
I absolutely loved this book and neglected pretty much everything else to read. Author Sarah Eden has created a beautiful love story in the unforgettable town of Hope Springs. The O'Connor family is back, and I loved the appearances by all of them. Cecily and Tavish are the perfect couple--meaning perfect for each other. Of course, they are too stubborn to realize it. I loved the humor, the poignancy, and the depth. Bravo!
September 12, 2017
It's no secret that I love Sarah Eden's books. This series is absolutely one of my favorites and this book? Oh my heart. Seriously. It's full of depth and emotion and my heart was one hundred percent engaged.
I have loved Tavish from the very beginning of this series. I think I might be in love with his name alone! Tavish is the very best sort of person and I was SO grateful this book brought about some healing, peace and happiness for him. It was a long, hard fought battle- emotional and fantastic. Man, I love Tavish. LOVE him.
Cecily earned a place in my heart right next to Tavish. She sort of wormed her way in and took up space. It happened with no conscious effort on my part. I felt all sorts of things for Cecily but mostly I admired her. She has a strength of character that I wish I had. She is someone who rises up no matter what. Through heartache, prejudice, physical pain and limitations, loneliness and sorrow, Cecily rises up.
I could seriously go on and on about this book. I really loved everything about it. There is a song in this book and a scene that yanked my heart out. If you have ever loved someone and lost them, you will feel it's power. So emotional!
I would highly recommend reading this series and in order if you can. It will provide more of an emotional connection this story and it's characters. But, if you cannot read them all, this book can stand alone, I think.
I have loved Tavish from the very beginning of this series. I think I might be in love with his name alone! Tavish is the very best sort of person and I was SO grateful this book brought about some healing, peace and happiness for him. It was a long, hard fought battle- emotional and fantastic. Man, I love Tavish. LOVE him.
Cecily earned a place in my heart right next to Tavish. She sort of wormed her way in and took up space. It happened with no conscious effort on my part. I felt all sorts of things for Cecily but mostly I admired her. She has a strength of character that I wish I had. She is someone who rises up no matter what. Through heartache, prejudice, physical pain and limitations, loneliness and sorrow, Cecily rises up.
I could seriously go on and on about this book. I really loved everything about it. There is a song in this book and a scene that yanked my heart out. If you have ever loved someone and lost them, you will feel it's power. So emotional!
I would highly recommend reading this series and in order if you can. It will provide more of an emotional connection this story and it's characters. But, if you cannot read them all, this book can stand alone, I think.
September 15, 2017
I have really come to love the people (most of them) who live in Hope Springs, WY and after a heart wrenching love triangle, I was delighted to read about the one who still needed to find love. These books really do need to be read in order to fully appreciate the characters and story line.
After just reading Book 2 in the series, I was somewhat stunned by the way the Irish citizens of Hope Springs treated Cecily, an Englishwoman. Can I just say, what's up with the prejudice?! They were treated very poorly and unfairly, yet seem to have no problem turning around and dishing it right back to someone who definitely doesn't deserve it. You'd think they'd learn to be empathetic by their experiences, especially when all Cecily is there to do is to help one of their own.
I love characters with a little spitfire and the lively banter between Cecily and Tavish was extremely fun, humorous, sweet, and perfect. They have such quick wit and great personalities and I adored them both. I also love Granny so much--she is a joy and really makes me miss my own grandma.
Sometimes I wondered just how much is expected for these people to endure, but there are tender moments that shine through the difficult times and although this book is tough to read here and there, it's definitely worth it, for it is well-written and full of heart.
Content: mild romance; some mildly difficult experiences to endure; some prejudice.
*I received a copy, which did not influence my opinion in any way.*
After just reading Book 2 in the series, I was somewhat stunned by the way the Irish citizens of Hope Springs treated Cecily, an Englishwoman. Can I just say, what's up with the prejudice?! They were treated very poorly and unfairly, yet seem to have no problem turning around and dishing it right back to someone who definitely doesn't deserve it. You'd think they'd learn to be empathetic by their experiences, especially when all Cecily is there to do is to help one of their own.
I love characters with a little spitfire and the lively banter between Cecily and Tavish was extremely fun, humorous, sweet, and perfect. They have such quick wit and great personalities and I adored them both. I also love Granny so much--she is a joy and really makes me miss my own grandma.
Sometimes I wondered just how much is expected for these people to endure, but there are tender moments that shine through the difficult times and although this book is tough to read here and there, it's definitely worth it, for it is well-written and full of heart.
Content: mild romance; some mildly difficult experiences to endure; some prejudice.
*I received a copy, which did not influence my opinion in any way.*
July 3, 2018
Tavish O’Connor is losing his family. His sister and brother-in-law are thinking of moving back to the city. His other sister is withdrawing and reluctant to speak with others. One of his brothers is suffering headaches and depression after an altercation with an anti-Irish mob. And his youngest brother, Finbarr, is trapped in an emotional and physical darkness after losing his vision due to a fire.
Enter Cecily. The young woman hired by the O’Connors to teach Finbarr. How to tie his shoes, how to light a fire, how to live. Cecily is an expert. Her sight has been waning since she was twelve, and she has committed herself to helping others. What Cecily doesn’t realize, when she takes the job, is that saving Finbarr may require saving the entire O’Conner clan. A task that would be a great deal easier if they weren’t diametrically opposed to her very English existence.
And if she wasn’t falling in love with Tavish.
Love Remains is a beautiful emotional read, taking the reader on a journey through grief, love, loss, family, and the wonders of finding one’s home. My favorite summer read thus far.
Enter Cecily. The young woman hired by the O’Connors to teach Finbarr. How to tie his shoes, how to light a fire, how to live. Cecily is an expert. Her sight has been waning since she was twelve, and she has committed herself to helping others. What Cecily doesn’t realize, when she takes the job, is that saving Finbarr may require saving the entire O’Conner clan. A task that would be a great deal easier if they weren’t diametrically opposed to her very English existence.
And if she wasn’t falling in love with Tavish.
Love Remains is a beautiful emotional read, taking the reader on a journey through grief, love, loss, family, and the wonders of finding one’s home. My favorite summer read thus far.
September 12, 2017
I have waited for this book since 2014 when Hope Springs was published. Tavish needed a story. I loved his character and wanted to read about him finding his match. The wait is over, and it was worth the wait!
Tavish is a good guy. He loves his family and his community. He is a giver, he puts his others needs before his own. He keeps telling everyone that he will make things right. He is amazing, but at the same time he is lonely.
Cecily is a feisty lady. She can hold her own against the O'Connor family. She is faced with a student who doesn't want to progress, an Irish family who holds grudges against the English (she is from England), and dealing with her progressive blindness. She keeps her head up and teaches others in spite of the obstacles. I loved her. I loved her for Tavish.
I appreciated being brought back to Hope Springs, a town that has faces prejudice and trials. This book adds another layer and looks at judging someone because of the country where they are born. I find this a timely theme. It's a painful process to eliminate prejudice, and Hope Springs gets another lesson. It would be nice if we could all see the importance of this problem.
I think the books should be read in order. Start with Longing for Home. It helps to realize the characters and see what Tavish has endured in the past to fully appreciate this book. It could be "read alone" but I highly recommend all of the books and reading them in order.
Sarah Eden is one of my "go to" author's for a reason. She is an amazing story teller.
Source: I received complimentary eBook to participate in a book tour. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.
Tavish is a good guy. He loves his family and his community. He is a giver, he puts his others needs before his own. He keeps telling everyone that he will make things right. He is amazing, but at the same time he is lonely.
Cecily is a feisty lady. She can hold her own against the O'Connor family. She is faced with a student who doesn't want to progress, an Irish family who holds grudges against the English (she is from England), and dealing with her progressive blindness. She keeps her head up and teaches others in spite of the obstacles. I loved her. I loved her for Tavish.
I appreciated being brought back to Hope Springs, a town that has faces prejudice and trials. This book adds another layer and looks at judging someone because of the country where they are born. I find this a timely theme. It's a painful process to eliminate prejudice, and Hope Springs gets another lesson. It would be nice if we could all see the importance of this problem.
I think the books should be read in order. Start with Longing for Home. It helps to realize the characters and see what Tavish has endured in the past to fully appreciate this book. It could be "read alone" but I highly recommend all of the books and reading them in order.
Sarah Eden is one of my "go to" author's for a reason. She is an amazing story teller.
Source: I received complimentary eBook to participate in a book tour. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.
September 21, 2017
Masterfully crafted, deeply poignant, and beautifully written, "Love Remains" is another triumph for Sarah M. Eden! When I read the first two books in the Hope Springs series, I was instantly drawn to the swoon-worthy Tavish, and couldn't wait to read his journey to find his much-deserved happily ever after. This book more than delivered. It was full of surprises, complex characters, heart-melting moments, witty banter, and true conflicts that could not be easily solved. The heroine is a newcomer to the town and she brings with her an intriguing mix of strength, independence and haunting vulnerability. If you are looking for a sweet, or clean romance that still has plenty of depth, conflict, and chemistry, this should go at the top of your to-be-read list.
Though it is not necessary to read the first two books in the series before reading this stand-alone novel, I do recommend it to fully understand Tavish's character and backstory better.
Though it is not necessary to read the first two books in the series before reading this stand-alone novel, I do recommend it to fully understand Tavish's character and backstory better.
September 13, 2017
I loved being back in the Hope Springs world. I truly love and cherish these characters. This book is beautifully written and a joy from start to finish. Tavish, oh Tavish. He is such a great character. I love his wit and charm. Cecily was also a fabulous characters. I loved how she could keep up with Tavish and I loved her "no nonsense" approach to helping Finbarr. Mrs. Claire was also a joy. I love and appreciate her humor. Sarah Eden is one of my favorite authors and her books never disappoint. I feel this book could be read as a stand-alone, but if you haven't read the other books, I would definitely recommend starting the series with Longing for Home, then Hope Springs. You will understand and appreciate the characters more and what they've gone through, especially Tavish, Katie, Finbarr, Emma... well all of them.
5 out of 5 stars. I received a paperback ARC from the publisher, all views and opinions expressed are my own.
5 out of 5 stars. I received a paperback ARC from the publisher, all views and opinions expressed are my own.
April 26, 2020
DNF after reading 60% - it has a promising start but it dragged on for way too long, meandering and becoming sappy.
September 20, 2017
I liked this story a lot more than the first two ones in the series. The tone was more hopeful. I was glad to see Tavish get his turn, and Cecily was perfect for him.
Highly recommend!
Highly recommend!
September 14, 2017
I am a huge Sarah Eden fan, but for her Hope Springs series, I am firmly in the TeamTavish camp. He's had a rough time of it in all the books, so I was SO happy to hear that this book is Tavish's love story. And oh, it was so worth the wait.
In the last book there was a horrific fire that injured the youngest O'Connor brother, Finbarr, and rendered him blind. That terrible night changed the O'Connor's forever, and Tavish has been valiantly trying to hold his family together at the expense of his own happiness and well-being. Nearly at the end of his rope, the family decides to hire a tutor for Finbarr that could help him navigate his new world, and Cecil Attwater arrives---only it's not Cecil, but Cecily, a beautiful Englishwoman.
Cecily has known heartache of her own as she is slowly losing her own eyesight. She wants to help Finbarr, but he is lost in self-pity and sure he'll never be able to have a life of his own. But the more she gets to know the O'Connor family, the more she comes to love them, especially Finbarr's older brother Tavish. Surprisingly, old wounds and hurts from her background as an Englishwoman and theirs as Irish surface and threaten to tear down the fragile foundation Cecily has built. Can she move past the prejudice of those she's become attached to, or will she forever be on the outside of a family looking in?
I loved everything about this book. The gentle teasing and witty repartee between Cecily and Tavish made me laugh, and the emotions of everything the O'Connor's have been through made me cry. Cecily and Tavish's love story was so sweet and tender, slowly coming to know each other in a way that didn't rely on looks, but sounds, smells, emotions, and touch was sigh-worthy. There were so many wonderful scenes that stood out to me, I don't think I could pick a favorite, but I loved the way that Tavish opened his heart to heal the wounds of the past and allowed himself to see a future. It was so realistic and well-written that I wanted to cry with happiness for him. And that Cecily was such a big part of that, even though she had her own demons to face, made the whole thing complete. Sarah Eden is well-known for her ability to tug at the heartstrings, and this book is no exception. It's the kind of romance that immerses you in the time and place, and makes the characters seem so real that you want to sit and visit with them yourself. This is one of my favorite stories of hers. Well, to tell the truth, the entire Hope Springs series has an honored place on my rainy day shelf. It's that good!
If you haven't read this series yet, you need to run out and get your copy right away!
Originally reviewed on http://ldswritermom.blogspot.com
In the last book there was a horrific fire that injured the youngest O'Connor brother, Finbarr, and rendered him blind. That terrible night changed the O'Connor's forever, and Tavish has been valiantly trying to hold his family together at the expense of his own happiness and well-being. Nearly at the end of his rope, the family decides to hire a tutor for Finbarr that could help him navigate his new world, and Cecil Attwater arrives---only it's not Cecil, but Cecily, a beautiful Englishwoman.
Cecily has known heartache of her own as she is slowly losing her own eyesight. She wants to help Finbarr, but he is lost in self-pity and sure he'll never be able to have a life of his own. But the more she gets to know the O'Connor family, the more she comes to love them, especially Finbarr's older brother Tavish. Surprisingly, old wounds and hurts from her background as an Englishwoman and theirs as Irish surface and threaten to tear down the fragile foundation Cecily has built. Can she move past the prejudice of those she's become attached to, or will she forever be on the outside of a family looking in?
I loved everything about this book. The gentle teasing and witty repartee between Cecily and Tavish made me laugh, and the emotions of everything the O'Connor's have been through made me cry. Cecily and Tavish's love story was so sweet and tender, slowly coming to know each other in a way that didn't rely on looks, but sounds, smells, emotions, and touch was sigh-worthy. There were so many wonderful scenes that stood out to me, I don't think I could pick a favorite, but I loved the way that Tavish opened his heart to heal the wounds of the past and allowed himself to see a future. It was so realistic and well-written that I wanted to cry with happiness for him. And that Cecily was such a big part of that, even though she had her own demons to face, made the whole thing complete. Sarah Eden is well-known for her ability to tug at the heartstrings, and this book is no exception. It's the kind of romance that immerses you in the time and place, and makes the characters seem so real that you want to sit and visit with them yourself. This is one of my favorite stories of hers. Well, to tell the truth, the entire Hope Springs series has an honored place on my rainy day shelf. It's that good!
If you haven't read this series yet, you need to run out and get your copy right away!
Originally reviewed on http://ldswritermom.blogspot.com
September 8, 2017
Oh I love this series. I am so glad Tavish and the rest of the family are doing better. It is silly to think of them as real people but that is what a good author does. This is the 3rd book in the Hope Springs series. I wouldn't recommend reading this one till you have read the others. Sarah has a way of writing that pulls you in and make you care! I can't believe I actually found myself crying over these characters. It was well done. This is a historical romance that has the story line that carries a great story and adds the sweetness and tension of a building romance around the story. It is PG with a couple of kisses.
August 14, 2017
Love Remains is book three from the Longing for Home series. I just loved this beautiful story of love. Cecily and Tavish has wonderful chemistry. I, also, found myself giggle a few times throughout the book.
Recommended.
5 stars
I received this book from the author, but was not required to write a review. This review is 100% my own honest opinion.
Recommended.
5 stars
I received this book from the author, but was not required to write a review. This review is 100% my own honest opinion.
October 10, 2018
4.5/5.0
The third book in the “Longing for Home” series, “Love Remains” provides a marvelous conclusion to Tavish’s search for romance while providing a Helen Keller-type storyline with Finbarr and Cecily.
Read full review in the 2017 October issue of InD'tale Magazine.
The third book in the “Longing for Home” series, “Love Remains” provides a marvelous conclusion to Tavish’s search for romance while providing a Helen Keller-type storyline with Finbarr and Cecily.
Read full review in the 2017 October issue of InD'tale Magazine.
August 14, 2017
The Hope Springs series is a must read!!! This is Tavish's story and oh what a story. I have always loved Tavish and his zest for life. I was so happy to see him finally get his own story. I will warn you up front as with all of the books in this series you will need a tissue or two. I think of all the families in the books I have read the O'Connor family is the most memorable. They actually feel like family. Their love for each other is palpable. Their heartaches become my heartaches, their triumphs my triumphs. This is a very touching story of strength, overcoming prejudice, forgiveness, overcoming grief, humor and ultimately a love that is meant for the history books. Cecily is all that a woman should be, and Tavish is her perfect match. Loved, loved, loved! I would highly recommend this book and this series to anyone.
January 2, 2021
A hard book to read, though not as hard as the one before it in the series. Sarah Eden doesn’t hesitate to throw the worst thing possible directly into the path of all her characters. They arrive on the scene of this story scarred, wounded, lost. The majority of the book is a story of slow healing, complicated by stubbornness, prejudice, and more loss.
I love how deep the books in this series are and how richly the historic setting is described. I hope there will be plenty more to come.
I love how deep the books in this series are and how richly the historic setting is described. I hope there will be plenty more to come.
November 2, 2017
I absolutely adore this series! It has such heart, while tackling some of the gritty problems encountered between the Irish and English trying to make a life in 19th century America. This installment also deals with the struggles of those who are blind in this era. It is touching, heart-breaking but riveting. One learns so much while devouring a perfectly wonderful romantic story.
July 31, 2017
I had to wait to start this book after receiving it, because I knew I wouldn't be able to put it down. I was so happy to return to Tavish's story and his chance to heal, grow, and find peace. He is a caring, thoughtful man who struggles to lift his family. I was disappointed in the O'Connor family's treatment of Cecily, though I understood where they were coming from. Her desire to belong somewhere, and the rejection she faced, had me in tears. Reading about the blind school and Cecily's story brought back memories of watching "Little House on the Prairie," which I loved as a child. I appreciated Cecily's strength, forgiving heart, and ability to laugh with Tavish even while facing challenges.
January 23, 2018
It's been some time since I visited the small Wyoming town of Hope Springs. Despite my interest when I saw that 'Love Remains' was being published last year, a part of me was hesitant to revisit this place. Book 2, leaves you with a somewhat shocked and tragic ending. Yes there is resolution to the love triangle, a content one - but I really think this was the first book I'd read that saddened me so at the conclusion. I like a happy ending, so there it is.
I had my doubts, but intrigue won over. Tavish, our favourite Irishman, is in need of a happy ending for himself. He's so good and kind. Everyone's hero. He carries the weight of the 'O'Connor world' on his shoulders. He's moved his younger brother Finbarr into his home, in efforts to help restore the lost soul, brought about by physical damage to his eyes. The result of the tragic and deadly fire. With little hope for improvement his family enlist the help of a 'Mr' Attwater, a teacher of the blind from St Louis. Little do they know that the person they've sent for is going to turn this 'freshly resolved of conflict' community, upside down.
Turns out there couldn't be anything worse than the Reds, that is, unless they happen to be English. Miss Cecily Attwater arrives into the train depot hopeful and eager to meet her new student. What she encounters is a harsh kind of prejudice like one she's never endured. Something far beyond what she expects to be the cause - her debilitating disease. The endless passages of heartbreaking emotional & physical pain are not easy on my reader soul. Being English, I do understand the history and cause of the deep seated struggle the Irish had to deal with. Naturally, the closer the generations are to the experience, the deeper the pain. The more raw the wound. Biddy especially (and understandably) in this story expresses, and is, a stark reminder of the reasons why the Irish cannot abide Cecily's presence.
This story takes you on such a tender pathway towards healing, contrasted by the harsh realities of the tragedy of blindness. Conflict resolution based on decades of hurt and suffering. This was by no means an easy read, but one filled with obvious love and hope, despite the difficult road ahead.
There is a line in this book that stopped me in my tracks. It says “If you can manage the task in blackness, you can manage it in the light.” This touched my heart in a surprising way. Of course, here it is referring to the physical obstacle of performing tasks for an almost blind person. However, as I pondered the overwhelming blackness we sometimes feel emotionally, or spiritually - we have a choice. Allow it to consume us, or find someway to either battle through the darkness until it lifts, or find a way to claw your way out. How often do we wish for the relative ease of light? Everything being joyful and content in life. When we find ourselves encased in darkness - there is something strengthening about knowing you endured it, and returned to the light a much more capable person. If you can get through it in the dark, you will be so much more strengthened in the light.
Sarah Eden has written this third Hope Springs book with so much care and attention. There were times when I thought to myself, why can't we have a happier tale? There is so much unhappiness and sadness from many aspects of the story. The reality is though that we have a complex plot, in which once again you will become deeply drawn into. It's one that will have you reading when you should be doing important things like 'adulting' and I seriously couldn't put it down!
Make sure you begin this series at the beginning, with book 1, 'Longing for Home', these are not stand alone stories. So beautifully written, they will touch the tender part of your heart and soul.
I had my doubts, but intrigue won over. Tavish, our favourite Irishman, is in need of a happy ending for himself. He's so good and kind. Everyone's hero. He carries the weight of the 'O'Connor world' on his shoulders. He's moved his younger brother Finbarr into his home, in efforts to help restore the lost soul, brought about by physical damage to his eyes. The result of the tragic and deadly fire. With little hope for improvement his family enlist the help of a 'Mr' Attwater, a teacher of the blind from St Louis. Little do they know that the person they've sent for is going to turn this 'freshly resolved of conflict' community, upside down.
Turns out there couldn't be anything worse than the Reds, that is, unless they happen to be English. Miss Cecily Attwater arrives into the train depot hopeful and eager to meet her new student. What she encounters is a harsh kind of prejudice like one she's never endured. Something far beyond what she expects to be the cause - her debilitating disease. The endless passages of heartbreaking emotional & physical pain are not easy on my reader soul. Being English, I do understand the history and cause of the deep seated struggle the Irish had to deal with. Naturally, the closer the generations are to the experience, the deeper the pain. The more raw the wound. Biddy especially (and understandably) in this story expresses, and is, a stark reminder of the reasons why the Irish cannot abide Cecily's presence.
This story takes you on such a tender pathway towards healing, contrasted by the harsh realities of the tragedy of blindness. Conflict resolution based on decades of hurt and suffering. This was by no means an easy read, but one filled with obvious love and hope, despite the difficult road ahead.
There is a line in this book that stopped me in my tracks. It says “If you can manage the task in blackness, you can manage it in the light.” This touched my heart in a surprising way. Of course, here it is referring to the physical obstacle of performing tasks for an almost blind person. However, as I pondered the overwhelming blackness we sometimes feel emotionally, or spiritually - we have a choice. Allow it to consume us, or find someway to either battle through the darkness until it lifts, or find a way to claw your way out. How often do we wish for the relative ease of light? Everything being joyful and content in life. When we find ourselves encased in darkness - there is something strengthening about knowing you endured it, and returned to the light a much more capable person. If you can get through it in the dark, you will be so much more strengthened in the light.
Sarah Eden has written this third Hope Springs book with so much care and attention. There were times when I thought to myself, why can't we have a happier tale? There is so much unhappiness and sadness from many aspects of the story. The reality is though that we have a complex plot, in which once again you will become deeply drawn into. It's one that will have you reading when you should be doing important things like 'adulting' and I seriously couldn't put it down!
Make sure you begin this series at the beginning, with book 1, 'Longing for Home', these are not stand alone stories. So beautifully written, they will touch the tender part of your heart and soul.
May 6, 2018
Super good historical romance with an unlikely couple--an Irish hero and an English heroine. Tavish O’Connor has carried the load of his family for the past couple years, struggling to hold all their lives and hearts together. After his younger brother Finbarr is blinded in a fire, Tavish hires a tutor to come to Hope Springs and help his brother regain independence…and hope. Cecily, almost completely blind herself, travels to Hope Springs to help her new student. But the family isn’t expecting a girl. And the fact that she is English is even more intolerable.
So begins the journey of Cecily to heal this family. But it’s hard to heal those who hate and despise you for being born in the wrong country. This story was a heart-tugging one, and so well done (like a perfect steak. Yum! This makes your heart hungry just as a juicy T-bone makes your stomach hungry). I loved seeing how independent Cecily was even with her handicap. She is a kind, loving, and strong heroine. One I adored. Tavish is witty, the right amount of cocky, and would help anyone in need. You can’t help but root for those two to get together…and they want to. But when family stands in the way…and the entire town of Irish immigrants, love might have to bow to the side to keep from hurting one further. It’s a tear-jerker. Read this book! It’s amazing. This author always delves deep into the heart to serve up the most delicious romances imaginable.
So begins the journey of Cecily to heal this family. But it’s hard to heal those who hate and despise you for being born in the wrong country. This story was a heart-tugging one, and so well done (like a perfect steak. Yum! This makes your heart hungry just as a juicy T-bone makes your stomach hungry). I loved seeing how independent Cecily was even with her handicap. She is a kind, loving, and strong heroine. One I adored. Tavish is witty, the right amount of cocky, and would help anyone in need. You can’t help but root for those two to get together…and they want to. But when family stands in the way…and the entire town of Irish immigrants, love might have to bow to the side to keep from hurting one further. It’s a tear-jerker. Read this book! It’s amazing. This author always delves deep into the heart to serve up the most delicious romances imaginable.
April 11, 2025
Love. Love. Love. Yes, I loved this one. Man, it had me bawling at times. I think what I really loved most about this book is that it had a lot of emotional depth to it. There's a lot of characters in pain, and I really felt it. Their character arcs made sense and pulled me through the entire story.
It must be a good book if I'm desperate to get back to it when I put it down, and that's how I felt reading this one. This may be among my favorite of Sarah M. Eden's books.
It must be a good book if I'm desperate to get back to it when I put it down, and that's how I felt reading this one. This may be among my favorite of Sarah M. Eden's books.
August 23, 2017
I have been waiting for this book for three years. It was all that I had hoped and so much more! The book is full of emotion, and I felt the whole gamut along with the characters. Grief, sorrow, pain, anger, joy, happiness, laughter, and of course, love. It touched my heart in so many ways.
I love Tavish! He has endured so much and I was so excited to read his story and see him find love. He more than deserved it! He is so giving and selfless. He takes everyone’s struggles as his own and does everything he can and more to help. I love his ability to always find a smile and bring joy to others.
Cecily is incredible! She is strong and independent. I admired her passion to help others, and her joy when others succeeded was inspiring. I loved watching her open up to Tavish as she let him see her vulnerability. She and Tavish both needed someone who would see them completely, support them and love them. They did that for each other in such a complete way, and it was beautiful to watch!
I love the O’Connor family! They are so close and have a desire to support one another. They don’t always know how to do that or go about it the right way, but they try. They aren’t perfect, and that makes them real, but their love for each other is unquestionable.
It was wonderful to see that the progress the town made at the end of book two lasted. The Americans and Irish have set their differences aside. Unfortunately, they haven’t learned the complete lesson of acceptance, and Cecily pays the price. The Irish are so cruel to her. It was heart breaking to see them treat her in a manner they had complained about when it was directed towards them. Thankfully, they begin to learn.
I loved this book! I couldn’t put it down. Sarah Eden is one of my favorite authors, and this book just provides more evidence of why. I’m already looking forward to the next book in the series!
I love Tavish! He has endured so much and I was so excited to read his story and see him find love. He more than deserved it! He is so giving and selfless. He takes everyone’s struggles as his own and does everything he can and more to help. I love his ability to always find a smile and bring joy to others.
Cecily is incredible! She is strong and independent. I admired her passion to help others, and her joy when others succeeded was inspiring. I loved watching her open up to Tavish as she let him see her vulnerability. She and Tavish both needed someone who would see them completely, support them and love them. They did that for each other in such a complete way, and it was beautiful to watch!
I love the O’Connor family! They are so close and have a desire to support one another. They don’t always know how to do that or go about it the right way, but they try. They aren’t perfect, and that makes them real, but their love for each other is unquestionable.
It was wonderful to see that the progress the town made at the end of book two lasted. The Americans and Irish have set their differences aside. Unfortunately, they haven’t learned the complete lesson of acceptance, and Cecily pays the price. The Irish are so cruel to her. It was heart breaking to see them treat her in a manner they had complained about when it was directed towards them. Thankfully, they begin to learn.
I loved this book! I couldn’t put it down. Sarah Eden is one of my favorite authors, and this book just provides more evidence of why. I’m already looking forward to the next book in the series!
September 11, 2017
I enjoyed this heartwarming story. I have not read the other books in this series but I had no problem reading this as a stand alone.
Tavish and Cecily were both wonderful characters. Tavish is so willing to take on the cares of his whole family and be their rock that he has never allowed himself to grieve his own losses. Cecily is so giving in spite of her own loss and pain. Together they learn to open themselves up to healing and hope and a new love.
I admired Cecily and the way she handles herself and the way she is determined to reach Finbarr in spite of his family. I hurt with her when the O'Connor's and the town shun her because she is English. I enjoyed reading about the changes and growth they all make in order to give this book a happily ever after!
*Thanks to Min Reads and Reviews for a complimentary copy of this book. I was not paid nor required to write a positive review and all opinions stated are my own.*
Tavish and Cecily were both wonderful characters. Tavish is so willing to take on the cares of his whole family and be their rock that he has never allowed himself to grieve his own losses. Cecily is so giving in spite of her own loss and pain. Together they learn to open themselves up to healing and hope and a new love.
I admired Cecily and the way she handles herself and the way she is determined to reach Finbarr in spite of his family. I hurt with her when the O'Connor's and the town shun her because she is English. I enjoyed reading about the changes and growth they all make in order to give this book a happily ever after!
*Thanks to Min Reads and Reviews for a complimentary copy of this book. I was not paid nor required to write a positive review and all opinions stated are my own.*
September 17, 2020
Out of all the Longing for Home books this one was definitely my favorite. At least so far. I loved watching the characters change and develop. I loved seeing how they helped each other view the world. I loved watching them help each other heal. I loved the example Cecily set. Despite her difficult life and the way she was treated she held no grudges and did everything she could to help everyone else. Truly a wonderful book!
September 5, 2017
I really enjoyed this book. I've read the others in the series and was definitely NOT disappointed with this one! I love the writing style and the imagery. I was not expecting the struggles the characters in this book had. I appreciated learning more about the blind and the real-life struggles they have, particularly the struggles they faced without modern technology (dirt roads, no sidewalks even technology.....). Really enjoyed getting back into Tavish's life! Thank you!
November 1, 2017
The tears have fallen in a steady steam as I enjoyed every minute of this book. Tears of empathy for loss of loved ones, loss of dreams, loss of physical abilities. This story and these characters have weaved a place in my heart and become part of my real family. Well done again Sarah! You are so talented
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September 10, 2017Loved it!!!
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May 12, 2018Whitney Award Winner for Historical Romance
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