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Hearts in Ireland
When the future is shrouded and it’s hard to find direction, maybe it’s time to let the heart lead the way….
Ronan Walker stands at a crossroads, unsure how to pursue his education… unsure if he even wants to. Now that his mother is gone, all he has left are the wonderful stories of her youth in Ireland, and he’s drawn to the land of his ancestors. There, he seeks out his mother’s family and meets Fergal Walsh, who works at Ronan’s aunt’s bookstore. A love of literature facilitates a fast friendship between the two men, and even though Ronan cannot deny the potential—and his desire—for more, he cannot see a future for the two of them when he leaves Ireland. Fergal must persuade Ronan to give school in Dublin a chance—and convince Ronan that his heart has already found its home.
World of Stories of romance that span every corner of the globe.
Ronan Walker stands at a crossroads, unsure how to pursue his education… unsure if he even wants to. Now that his mother is gone, all he has left are the wonderful stories of her youth in Ireland, and he’s drawn to the land of his ancestors. There, he seeks out his mother’s family and meets Fergal Walsh, who works at Ronan’s aunt’s bookstore. A love of literature facilitates a fast friendship between the two men, and even though Ronan cannot deny the potential—and his desire—for more, he cannot see a future for the two of them when he leaves Ireland. Fergal must persuade Ronan to give school in Dublin a chance—and convince Ronan that his heart has already found its home.
World of Stories of romance that span every corner of the globe.
119 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 10, 2017
73 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews
January 23, 2020
Ronan travels to Ireland to visit relatives in an attempt to get out of his deep depression following his mother's untimely death. But his aunt Gwendolyn feels
I received an ARC from Dreamspinner Press in exchange for an honest review.
Visit my blog, Sinfully Good Gay Book Reviews
“No, you’re not running away from yourself. That depression wasn’t you, nor was the loss. I think you’re running towards yourself. This place is part of you, whether you’ve been here before or not. You came here to find that part of yourself. I believe you’re soul-searching.” [...] “Whatever it is you’re searching for, I hope you find it.”And when Ronan meets Fergal, who works at his aunt's bookstore, he begins to wonder if she might be correct. But as much as the two men have in common, there are barriers in their way; mostly Ronan's complete indecision about his future. Following a night of (off-page) passion during a camping trip, Ronan's first waking thought is "What the hell was I thinking?" and after a bout of soul-searching Ronan eventually makes some tough decisions about his future and who he wants to spend it with.
Nothing new can grow in a garden if you never remove the old.Hearts in Ireland does a beautiful job of celebrating its setting - this truly is a love letter to Ireland in all its emerald glory. However, there isn't a lot of chemistry between Fergal and Ronan on-page and they solve all their problems in one brief scene. Also, Fergal's dialogue is written with an Irish accent throughout, i.e. “Yes, Oi know what yeh mean. And Oi’d like that too” which bothered me (although I realize this may not bother anyone else.) 3.5 stars for Hearts in Ireland.
I received an ARC from Dreamspinner Press in exchange for an honest review.
Visit my blog, Sinfully Good Gay Book Reviews
May 10, 2017
Ronan and Fergal
It's started kind of emotional....for me very emotional......that was one sweet, realistic and respectful rendering of the last day's of Ronan's mom....and the grief after she died.
Despite it was sad because of her death you could feel so much love...
After Ronan travels to his mom's birthplace, like she ask him to, and he sets a foot on Ireland ground he knows what his mom meant. Ronan feels the warmth of all his family members. It felt like a warm late summer breeze. All the story's of his mom....
His aunt has a bookstore and there is where Ronan meets Fergal....
Fergal easygoing Fergal working at the bookstore, with his thick Irish accent....loves Ronan's company....and Ronan likewise. Their friendship is growing deeper. Only Ronan has a lot on his mind....
After a sweet camping night surrounded by the beautiful Irish landscape Ronan withdraws, he can't go further he has to go home.....and Fergal is disappointed by Ronan and takes some time off.
But Ireland is calling him and he can't leave this beautiful landscape, the roots or the man he loves. Because home is.....
I experienced this as a deeply emotional read, maybe because I lost my mom myself, but also because it was written close to the heart, very recognizable. I wasn't heavy or stodgy it was more light and considered, and always palpable were the emotions and the lost of his mother and the beauty of Ireland.
It's about birthplaces, family, home, grief, choices, perspective, love and last but not least following your heart.
Always had an idea to go to Ireland sometime and...now....after feeling this......I'm really gonna do....!
I also want to say this was a totally different story/style than the other books I read from this author.
Hooray to alternation !!
Kindly received an ARC from Dreamspinner Press for a honest review
This review is published on Divine Magazine
https://www.divinemagazine.biz/hearts...
It's started kind of emotional....for me very emotional......that was one sweet, realistic and respectful rendering of the last day's of Ronan's mom....and the grief after she died.
Despite it was sad because of her death you could feel so much love...
After Ronan travels to his mom's birthplace, like she ask him to, and he sets a foot on Ireland ground he knows what his mom meant. Ronan feels the warmth of all his family members. It felt like a warm late summer breeze. All the story's of his mom....
His aunt has a bookstore and there is where Ronan meets Fergal....
Fergal easygoing Fergal working at the bookstore, with his thick Irish accent....loves Ronan's company....and Ronan likewise. Their friendship is growing deeper. Only Ronan has a lot on his mind....
After a sweet camping night surrounded by the beautiful Irish landscape Ronan withdraws, he can't go further he has to go home.....and Fergal is disappointed by Ronan and takes some time off.
But Ireland is calling him and he can't leave this beautiful landscape, the roots or the man he loves. Because home is.....
I experienced this as a deeply emotional read, maybe because I lost my mom myself, but also because it was written close to the heart, very recognizable. I wasn't heavy or stodgy it was more light and considered, and always palpable were the emotions and the lost of his mother and the beauty of Ireland.
It's about birthplaces, family, home, grief, choices, perspective, love and last but not least following your heart.
Always had an idea to go to Ireland sometime and...now....after feeling this......I'm really gonna do....!
I also want to say this was a totally different story/style than the other books I read from this author.
Hooray to alternation !!
Kindly received an ARC from Dreamspinner Press for a honest review
This review is published on Divine Magazine
https://www.divinemagazine.biz/hearts...
August 3, 2018
Family can be a wonderful thing, and while Ronan has met the Irish half of his when they came to see him in America over the years, he has never been to Ireland himself. His mother always wanted to take him but never got around to it – and then she dies. Roan is heartbroken, but decides it is finally time to go and explore his Irish ancestry. And what an adventure it turns out to be!
Please find my full review on Rainbow Book Reviews.
Please find my full review on Rainbow Book Reviews.
July 12, 2018
A complimentary audio code was provided in exchange for an honest review.
This is a very sweet and romantic story. Ronan is extremely depressed after the death of his mother, and he travels to Ireland - his mom's homeland - and he spends time with his mother's family and friends. This is a short story but it didn't feel that way. Ronan's love of his mother, his grief and anger over he death, his decision to go to Ireland, meeting the family and then Fergal - the spacing of the storyline was perfect. It takes an amazing talent to pack a lot into a short page count, and not to make it feel rushed to too full.
John Steinkamps narration was perfect for these characters; his range of accents really worked for this and I loved the inflections in his voice; it felt very natural, just as if he was having a conversation. Sometimes when I listen to an audiobook, the narration comes across as very flat and frankly dull - without life - but John's voice just seems to naturally have this flow to it and it's like he doesn't even have to try. I definitely look forward to more books narrated by John, and J.C. Long.
This is my first book by J.C. and if Hearts in Ireland is an example of JC's talent, I am going to be a big fan.
To give a (very) brief summary of the story, Ronan is basically looking to find himself. He's been lost since his mother became ill (I think even before that). He put off going to grad school (he was going to be a teacher), and he is stuck being a bartender (which he hates) and when his mother dies, he shuts down; doesn't go to work, barely eats, doesn't shower or take care of himself. It was very emotional and I felt so sorry for Ronan. But when he makes it Ireland and spends time with his mother's family, and when he meets Fergal, Ronan starts to wake up and decides it's time to figure out what to do with his life. The expected fight between Fergal and Ronan is tough to see, but I never questioned it. Ronan wasn't sure what he was doing - was he going back to America, was he going to stay in Ireland, was he going back to college, was his relationship with Fergal simply a result of Ronan's grief over his mother. So many things in Ronan's life were uncertain. I just loved seeing Ronan discover himself and finally figure out what he wanted to do. It was just a very lovely story and I would love to read more about these characters again.
4.5 stars for the story; 5 for the narration.
This is a very sweet and romantic story. Ronan is extremely depressed after the death of his mother, and he travels to Ireland - his mom's homeland - and he spends time with his mother's family and friends. This is a short story but it didn't feel that way. Ronan's love of his mother, his grief and anger over he death, his decision to go to Ireland, meeting the family and then Fergal - the spacing of the storyline was perfect. It takes an amazing talent to pack a lot into a short page count, and not to make it feel rushed to too full.
John Steinkamps narration was perfect for these characters; his range of accents really worked for this and I loved the inflections in his voice; it felt very natural, just as if he was having a conversation. Sometimes when I listen to an audiobook, the narration comes across as very flat and frankly dull - without life - but John's voice just seems to naturally have this flow to it and it's like he doesn't even have to try. I definitely look forward to more books narrated by John, and J.C. Long.
This is my first book by J.C. and if Hearts in Ireland is an example of JC's talent, I am going to be a big fan.
To give a (very) brief summary of the story, Ronan is basically looking to find himself. He's been lost since his mother became ill (I think even before that). He put off going to grad school (he was going to be a teacher), and he is stuck being a bartender (which he hates) and when his mother dies, he shuts down; doesn't go to work, barely eats, doesn't shower or take care of himself. It was very emotional and I felt so sorry for Ronan. But when he makes it Ireland and spends time with his mother's family, and when he meets Fergal, Ronan starts to wake up and decides it's time to figure out what to do with his life. The expected fight between Fergal and Ronan is tough to see, but I never questioned it. Ronan wasn't sure what he was doing - was he going back to America, was he going to stay in Ireland, was he going back to college, was his relationship with Fergal simply a result of Ronan's grief over his mother. So many things in Ronan's life were uncertain. I just loved seeing Ronan discover himself and finally figure out what he wanted to do. It was just a very lovely story and I would love to read more about these characters again.
4.5 stars for the story; 5 for the narration.
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July 13, 2017 3.5 Hearts
I was curious about this book having read the author's highly erotic short stories and wondering how his take on this particular line would transfer. The writing is easy to read and engage in, as usual, but the heat level is not in the same land at all. That isn’t a bad thing, it’s just very different from what I have read before but I truly enjoyed the romance of Ronan and Fergal and wouldn’t change a thing.
This book starts off with an extremely emotional scene as we meet Ronan Walker as he is with his mother as she passes away. Ronan’s mother, Allanah, was everything to him and the stories she would tell him of her homeland back in Ireland was a bond they shared. Knowing how much his mother loved where she was from and how much she wanted to go back, she made Ronan promise he would visit and of course he does.
The promise made was bittersweet for me as traveling to Scotland after my father passed was something I had planned to do. He and I always talked about visiting where his family was from and his passing only made my want stronger but life for me had other plans. It’s still on my list though… one day I’ll get there.
This story makes so much sense if you really take in how much Ronan’s mother meant him. Going to Ireland to really take the time he needs to deal with his grief of losing his mother in the place that meant the most to her, it’s only fitting he would find himself.
So, Ronan travels to Ireland to stay with his mother’s family; his Aunt Gwendolyn and his cousin Hannah in the small town of Abhainn Dún, where they run a bookstore. Once Ronan gets settled and takes in all that Ireland offers on his first day, he goes to the family bookstore and meets Fergal, the handsome boy with the thick Irish brogue, dark red hair and light green eyes. Okay, we can pause here to tell you how much I adored Fergal and not just because of his accent though the way his dialect was written I smiled because I could hear that “Oi” for “I” and just melted. Fergal is such a sweet character who has so much in common with Ronan and his fancy for the American makes him so freaking adorable! Sigh.
Ronan and Fergal have a slow burn to their relationship and really begin it all with being friends. They have a shared love for reading and James Joyce being a favorite and they have plans to see the sights as well as going to Dublin’s Parade together. When Fergal offers to take Ronan camping, a rain storm heats things up between them and Ronan is faced with decisions he wasn’t prepared to make.
Ronan learns so much about his mother from her family, including the fact that she was literally born in a barn, but the most important things Ronan learns is where his heart truly lies. This whole trip for Ronan was him running away from the depression losing his mother brought on. He has always talked about going back to school to get his Masters so he can teach, but put it off repeatedly but once he voices the intent in Ireland, Fergal and Ronan’s family offer the information about Trinity College and their program. It’s a subtle hint for him to stay but Ronan doesn’t know yet if he is coming or going and the feelings he’s having for Fergal muddle his thoughts and confuse the hell out of him.
You see, Allanah met his father when Richard, was stationed in Ireland with the US Air Force. They met, fell in love and when his father proposed, his mother immediately accepted and love took her to a new country to start a new life. Though she never once regretted following Richard, she longed to return to Ireland. So, if Allanah followed Richard to the US for love, you have to wonder if the same thing would happen to Ronan and if so, would his love follow him or would he stay for his love?
Hearts in Ireland was a lovely and sweet story about finding yourself and finding your heart. I loved how Ireland itself becomes part of the romance. The setting is strong and had Ireland not been such a strong tie to Ronan’s mother, this would have just been a boy goes in vacation meets another boy and they have and HEA. But Ireland IS Ronan’s mother to him. It’s who she was deep in her heart and souls and it makes sense Ronan would find himself on the emerald isle and also find someone to give his heart to.
I was curious about this book having read the author's highly erotic short stories and wondering how his take on this particular line would transfer. The writing is easy to read and engage in, as usual, but the heat level is not in the same land at all. That isn’t a bad thing, it’s just very different from what I have read before but I truly enjoyed the romance of Ronan and Fergal and wouldn’t change a thing.
Home isn’t always where you started—sometimes it’s where you end up.
This book starts off with an extremely emotional scene as we meet Ronan Walker as he is with his mother as she passes away. Ronan’s mother, Allanah, was everything to him and the stories she would tell him of her homeland back in Ireland was a bond they shared. Knowing how much his mother loved where she was from and how much she wanted to go back, she made Ronan promise he would visit and of course he does.
The promise made was bittersweet for me as traveling to Scotland after my father passed was something I had planned to do. He and I always talked about visiting where his family was from and his passing only made my want stronger but life for me had other plans. It’s still on my list though… one day I’ll get there.
This story makes so much sense if you really take in how much Ronan’s mother meant him. Going to Ireland to really take the time he needs to deal with his grief of losing his mother in the place that meant the most to her, it’s only fitting he would find himself.
So, Ronan travels to Ireland to stay with his mother’s family; his Aunt Gwendolyn and his cousin Hannah in the small town of Abhainn Dún, where they run a bookstore. Once Ronan gets settled and takes in all that Ireland offers on his first day, he goes to the family bookstore and meets Fergal, the handsome boy with the thick Irish brogue, dark red hair and light green eyes. Okay, we can pause here to tell you how much I adored Fergal and not just because of his accent though the way his dialect was written I smiled because I could hear that “Oi” for “I” and just melted. Fergal is such a sweet character who has so much in common with Ronan and his fancy for the American makes him so freaking adorable! Sigh.
Ronan and Fergal have a slow burn to their relationship and really begin it all with being friends. They have a shared love for reading and James Joyce being a favorite and they have plans to see the sights as well as going to Dublin’s Parade together. When Fergal offers to take Ronan camping, a rain storm heats things up between them and Ronan is faced with decisions he wasn’t prepared to make.
Ronan learns so much about his mother from her family, including the fact that she was literally born in a barn, but the most important things Ronan learns is where his heart truly lies. This whole trip for Ronan was him running away from the depression losing his mother brought on. He has always talked about going back to school to get his Masters so he can teach, but put it off repeatedly but once he voices the intent in Ireland, Fergal and Ronan’s family offer the information about Trinity College and their program. It’s a subtle hint for him to stay but Ronan doesn’t know yet if he is coming or going and the feelings he’s having for Fergal muddle his thoughts and confuse the hell out of him.
You see, Allanah met his father when Richard, was stationed in Ireland with the US Air Force. They met, fell in love and when his father proposed, his mother immediately accepted and love took her to a new country to start a new life. Though she never once regretted following Richard, she longed to return to Ireland. So, if Allanah followed Richard to the US for love, you have to wonder if the same thing would happen to Ronan and if so, would his love follow him or would he stay for his love?
Hearts in Ireland was a lovely and sweet story about finding yourself and finding your heart. I loved how Ireland itself becomes part of the romance. The setting is strong and had Ireland not been such a strong tie to Ronan’s mother, this would have just been a boy goes in vacation meets another boy and they have and HEA. But Ireland IS Ronan’s mother to him. It’s who she was deep in her heart and souls and it makes sense Ronan would find himself on the emerald isle and also find someone to give his heart to.
July 6, 2018
I listened to the audio, narrated by John Steinkamp, and adored this story.
May 16, 2017
*** Marvelous touch of Ireland, and a man's search for his future.
This short story is amazingly written, with the feel of a full novel. Ronan, 27, is in a huge depression after his Mom's passing.
He and his Dad talk and he awakens to the idea of going there to see what it is that his Mom always talked about. Ireland, her birthplace and it was always in her heart. Ronan sees immediately why she loved it. He stays with his Aunt and cousin, and meets a man. Fergal has a lovely accent,
and is a beautiful, openly caring man. The men hang out a bit, sightsee, camp, have sex, etc. and each man has deeper feelings than they admit. We get marvelous descriptions, a sweet, heartwarming story, and be ready to shed a few tears. Ronan's mind is still in chaos, but it finally comes to rest on the only solution.
I highly recommend this short love story ! ENJOY !
========================
Thank you dear Jenny for the rec !
This short story is amazingly written, with the feel of a full novel. Ronan, 27, is in a huge depression after his Mom's passing.
He and his Dad talk and he awakens to the idea of going there to see what it is that his Mom always talked about. Ireland, her birthplace and it was always in her heart. Ronan sees immediately why she loved it. He stays with his Aunt and cousin, and meets a man. Fergal has a lovely accent,
and is a beautiful, openly caring man. The men hang out a bit, sightsee, camp, have sex, etc. and each man has deeper feelings than they admit. We get marvelous descriptions, a sweet, heartwarming story, and be ready to shed a few tears. Ronan's mind is still in chaos, but it finally comes to rest on the only solution.
I highly recommend this short love story ! ENJOY !
========================
Thank you dear Jenny for the rec !
October 19, 2017
This is the story of finding your root and your home. Easy and light and sweet.
But sadly I didn't find any good connection between the two MCs.
It's a love at first sight and moving forward to a relationship and love in days is okay with me, but I need more strong chemistry, a sparkle , a heart-beating fast. But, no.
It was just when they're first met, in the book store and Fergal bought a book for Ronan and invited him to lunch. Ronan is clueless about Fergal and Fergal didn't seem to show any determination about what he wanted.
It was smooth, a bit arguing about whether Ronan stay or back to USA.
This was an okay read, but not very memorable to me.
*ARC provided by the publisher for an hones, fair and unbiased review.*
But sadly I didn't find any good connection between the two MCs.
It's a love at first sight and moving forward to a relationship and love in days is okay with me, but I need more strong chemistry, a sparkle , a heart-beating fast. But, no.
It was just when they're first met, in the book store and Fergal bought a book for Ronan and invited him to lunch. Ronan is clueless about Fergal and Fergal didn't seem to show any determination about what he wanted.
It was smooth, a bit arguing about whether Ronan stay or back to USA.
This was an okay read, but not very memorable to me.
*ARC provided by the publisher for an hones, fair and unbiased review.*
September 15, 2017
I read this over a month ago but forgot to review.
This was a sweet story that I enjoyed. Surprisingly light considering the heavy beginning.
This was a sweet story that I enjoyed. Surprisingly light considering the heavy beginning.
May 26, 2017
Ronan Walker is at a crossroads with the death of his mother. He gives into the siren call to visit his mother's homeland of Ireland. He could never have imagine the change that Ireland would precipitate in this life.
This is one of those sweet and loving romances. One that we all wish we could have. A great stress reliever.
This is one of those sweet and loving romances. One that we all wish we could have. A great stress reliever.
August 5, 2018
Dreamspinner Press, the leading MM Romance book publisher, is well known for their World of Love series in which authors pick, or are assigned, a country where they write “contemporary romances spotlighting the unique features, qualities, and attributes of a specific country, as well as the universality of love wherever it’s found.”
J. C. Long’s Hearts in Ireland is set in, well, Ireland. Centering around the character of Ronan Walker, the story picks up just after the death of his mother, a native of Ireland who always dreamed of going back to see her hometown, but never got the chance.
Unable to find a way forward and knowing his mother’s dream was to share her native land with him, Ronan takes a trip to visit his mother’s family. While visiting, his love of books draws him to his aunt’s bookstore where he meets Fergal Walsh. Ronan then struggles with the question of his future as he finds himself becoming attached to both Fergal and Ireland.
The fun of this tale lies within the juxtaposition of personalities: Fergal’s easygoing lightheartedness in contrast to Ronan’s constant brooding. The character is, of course, dealing with some difficult issues—his mother’s death, the question of his future, his underlying feeling that he may be a failure—but there are moments where he needs Cher to give him a Moonstruck slap and tell him to “snap out of it.” However, the Irish love their brooding leading men, as anyone who’s watched Irish plays can attest.
Part of a series that aims to bring the country it is set in to life, the story is riddled with facts, descriptions, and nuances to bring Ireland to life in the reader’s eye. Long does a good job of taking the reader from the quaint countryside town and rolling green hills to the clash of historical and modern styles in Dublin during Gay Pride.
Narrator John Steinkamp does an excellent job of bringing the story to life and breathing life into Long’s characters. The Irish accents roll off his tongue perfectly, adding the necessary charm needed to make this story a truly enjoyable ride.
***I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review.***
J. C. Long’s Hearts in Ireland is set in, well, Ireland. Centering around the character of Ronan Walker, the story picks up just after the death of his mother, a native of Ireland who always dreamed of going back to see her hometown, but never got the chance.
Unable to find a way forward and knowing his mother’s dream was to share her native land with him, Ronan takes a trip to visit his mother’s family. While visiting, his love of books draws him to his aunt’s bookstore where he meets Fergal Walsh. Ronan then struggles with the question of his future as he finds himself becoming attached to both Fergal and Ireland.
The fun of this tale lies within the juxtaposition of personalities: Fergal’s easygoing lightheartedness in contrast to Ronan’s constant brooding. The character is, of course, dealing with some difficult issues—his mother’s death, the question of his future, his underlying feeling that he may be a failure—but there are moments where he needs Cher to give him a Moonstruck slap and tell him to “snap out of it.” However, the Irish love their brooding leading men, as anyone who’s watched Irish plays can attest.
Part of a series that aims to bring the country it is set in to life, the story is riddled with facts, descriptions, and nuances to bring Ireland to life in the reader’s eye. Long does a good job of taking the reader from the quaint countryside town and rolling green hills to the clash of historical and modern styles in Dublin during Gay Pride.
Narrator John Steinkamp does an excellent job of bringing the story to life and breathing life into Long’s characters. The Irish accents roll off his tongue perfectly, adding the necessary charm needed to make this story a truly enjoyable ride.
***I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review.***
July 21, 2018
Ronan has lost his mother and is finding it hard to move forward with his life without her by his side. His mother was born and raised in Ireland before marrying Ronan’s father and moving to Atlanta, Georgia. She’s always dazzled him with stories of Ireland and the life she lived while there. He goes to see what his mother loved and perhaps to be close to what he has left of his mother’s memories.
His family in Ireland were welcoming, caring and supportive. They encourage him to explore Ireland, to see the places and people that were important to his mother. At his Aunt’s bookshop, Ronan meets Fergal. He and Fergal end up seeing a lot of each other and they find companionship with each other.
Fergal shows him the heart of Ireland and I loved being able to go on that journey with Ronan. Their attraction was slow, sweet and had me wondering, will they? It wasn’t all roses for Ronan and Fergal. Ronan doesn’t know how long he’ll be in Ireland and because of that he pushes Fergal away. I loved the resolution of this. When I finished listening to this, it was like a happy little sigh. It made me want to save up to go to Ireland and find my own romance that might keep me there.
I’ve listened to a couple of books narrated by John Steinkamp and he’s got a voice that you may have to get used to. At first it distracted me but after the first few chapters, his voice fit the story. It was clear, concise and helped the story along.
His family in Ireland were welcoming, caring and supportive. They encourage him to explore Ireland, to see the places and people that were important to his mother. At his Aunt’s bookshop, Ronan meets Fergal. He and Fergal end up seeing a lot of each other and they find companionship with each other.
Fergal shows him the heart of Ireland and I loved being able to go on that journey with Ronan. Their attraction was slow, sweet and had me wondering, will they? It wasn’t all roses for Ronan and Fergal. Ronan doesn’t know how long he’ll be in Ireland and because of that he pushes Fergal away. I loved the resolution of this. When I finished listening to this, it was like a happy little sigh. It made me want to save up to go to Ireland and find my own romance that might keep me there.
I’ve listened to a couple of books narrated by John Steinkamp and he’s got a voice that you may have to get used to. At first it distracted me but after the first few chapters, his voice fit the story. It was clear, concise and helped the story along.
August 31, 2017
This was very cute. Started off heavy, got adorable at the end. There was a dip in the middle which I think is mostly due to the length of the novel. That said, Ronan was an engaging and cute character, and I understood why he felt the way he did. I wish we'd had a little more time to explore that, but I think the author's love for the country really came through in a rich and beautiful way. I really enjoyed this and would love to read more about these characters!
May 11, 2017
Review written for Love Bytes Reviews.
Still reeling from the death of his mother and in serious need of an escape, Ronan decides to do the one thing he and his mother had always meant to do: go to Ireland. Reconnecting with family is one goal of the trip but getting the chance to see the country that his mother loved so much and spent so much time talking about is the real draw for Ronan. Maybe somewhere amongst the rolling hills he’ll manage to find some peace for the heartache that continues to plague him as well. With his future uncertain, meeting Fergal Walsh is a blow to Ronan’s already bruised heart; the man makes Ronan want things he in no way thinks he can have and as the days turn into weeks, Fergal becomes more than just a friend. With Ronan’s impending return to the states, he’s afraid the Irishman is fast turning into the one thing he won’t be able to leave behind and he’ll have to choose what’s more important; returning to the home he left or staying with the one he’s found.
I’ve always enjoyed books that feature Ireland; the descriptions and imagery you get is really appealing and everything just seems so welcoming somehow. This was a really sweet story that starts off as a journey of healing for Ronan but ends up turning into the search for home. It takes him a while to start to move on from his mother’s death so things are fairly slow moving on the relationship front with Fergal but I really enjoyed the sweet nature of their interactions. I do, however, think an alternative title for this work should be ‘An Irishman’s guide to stealth dating an American’ since Fergal and Ronan were totally dating regardless of Ronan’s protestations otherwise. Despite the overall laid back nature of the story, there is a bit of personal drama on Ronan’s part as he fights with himself over what he wants to do versus what he thinks he needs to do that I liked seeing; it added a little more depth to Ronan as a person as he strove to work out and around his problems.
The story ends with a lovely little happy ending that was totally heartwarming and made me smile; this was just a really nice read and was a great way to de-stress. If you like your books without a lot of drama and are looking for something with a sweeter romantic element, I’d recommend checking this one out. :)
Still reeling from the death of his mother and in serious need of an escape, Ronan decides to do the one thing he and his mother had always meant to do: go to Ireland. Reconnecting with family is one goal of the trip but getting the chance to see the country that his mother loved so much and spent so much time talking about is the real draw for Ronan. Maybe somewhere amongst the rolling hills he’ll manage to find some peace for the heartache that continues to plague him as well. With his future uncertain, meeting Fergal Walsh is a blow to Ronan’s already bruised heart; the man makes Ronan want things he in no way thinks he can have and as the days turn into weeks, Fergal becomes more than just a friend. With Ronan’s impending return to the states, he’s afraid the Irishman is fast turning into the one thing he won’t be able to leave behind and he’ll have to choose what’s more important; returning to the home he left or staying with the one he’s found.
I’ve always enjoyed books that feature Ireland; the descriptions and imagery you get is really appealing and everything just seems so welcoming somehow. This was a really sweet story that starts off as a journey of healing for Ronan but ends up turning into the search for home. It takes him a while to start to move on from his mother’s death so things are fairly slow moving on the relationship front with Fergal but I really enjoyed the sweet nature of their interactions. I do, however, think an alternative title for this work should be ‘An Irishman’s guide to stealth dating an American’ since Fergal and Ronan were totally dating regardless of Ronan’s protestations otherwise. Despite the overall laid back nature of the story, there is a bit of personal drama on Ronan’s part as he fights with himself over what he wants to do versus what he thinks he needs to do that I liked seeing; it added a little more depth to Ronan as a person as he strove to work out and around his problems.
The story ends with a lovely little happy ending that was totally heartwarming and made me smile; this was just a really nice read and was a great way to de-stress. If you like your books without a lot of drama and are looking for something with a sweeter romantic element, I’d recommend checking this one out. :)
May 12, 2017
Warning: this book begins with tears. We jump into this story right as Ronan’s mother is dying, so right from the get-go this book grabs your heart strings. What follows is a story about a young man who, after losing his anchor, needs to find his own way in the world, and decide just what kind of man he wants to be.
Do you love Ireland? Thoughts of Ireland, descriptions of Ireland, Irish pubs and hunky Irish ginger MCs? This book is part of the World of Love series from Dreamspinner Press, which encompasses every corner of the globe and in this case…Ireland. Ronan Walker grew up in the United States. His father is American but his mother was Irish, and she instilled in Ronan an appreciation for his heritage there. When she dies, she leaves a grieving husband and son, but Ronan especially takes her parting hard. Thrown into a deep depression, Ronan seeks solace in his mother’s homeland, hoping that it will ease the pain, offer him comfort and help him find a way to let his mother go.
In running to Ireland, his world is turned sideways when he realizes that he was not, in truth, running away from something but toward a part of himself he needed to identify and embrace. And that’s where he finds Fergal.
Fergal Walsh has been working in Ronan’s aunt’s bookstore for years. An Irish literature major in college, there isn’t much he loves more than dusty tomes and his homeland. Books become a binder between these two men, and Ronan starts to fall in love with Ireland and with Fergal.
I do wish that J.C. Long had spent a little more time on the romance between his two MCs. Ronan remains confused and aloof for a good portion of the story, and it precluded me from forming an attachment to him as a character. I almost felt as if there were a glass wall between me and the MCs, which kept me from reaching out and embracing them (mostly Ronan) and their love story. I appreciated and developed an affinity for Fergal, though; he was so open and honest, and he embraced Ronan with an earnestness that was refreshing.
The closing scenes of Ronan at his mother’s grave, and the flight to Ireland, are a perfect bookend to the emotional beginning of this novel, and truly brought the storyline full circle. I enjoyed the secondary characters immensely. Hannah and Aunt Gwen and all the Irish clan were a treat to read about and added a lighter, humorous touch to the journey.
This is a well written, nicely paced HEA story that I would recommend, and is a great addition to the World of Love universe.
Reviewed by Carrie for The Novel Approach
Do you love Ireland? Thoughts of Ireland, descriptions of Ireland, Irish pubs and hunky Irish ginger MCs? This book is part of the World of Love series from Dreamspinner Press, which encompasses every corner of the globe and in this case…Ireland. Ronan Walker grew up in the United States. His father is American but his mother was Irish, and she instilled in Ronan an appreciation for his heritage there. When she dies, she leaves a grieving husband and son, but Ronan especially takes her parting hard. Thrown into a deep depression, Ronan seeks solace in his mother’s homeland, hoping that it will ease the pain, offer him comfort and help him find a way to let his mother go.
In running to Ireland, his world is turned sideways when he realizes that he was not, in truth, running away from something but toward a part of himself he needed to identify and embrace. And that’s where he finds Fergal.
Fergal Walsh has been working in Ronan’s aunt’s bookstore for years. An Irish literature major in college, there isn’t much he loves more than dusty tomes and his homeland. Books become a binder between these two men, and Ronan starts to fall in love with Ireland and with Fergal.
I do wish that J.C. Long had spent a little more time on the romance between his two MCs. Ronan remains confused and aloof for a good portion of the story, and it precluded me from forming an attachment to him as a character. I almost felt as if there were a glass wall between me and the MCs, which kept me from reaching out and embracing them (mostly Ronan) and their love story. I appreciated and developed an affinity for Fergal, though; he was so open and honest, and he embraced Ronan with an earnestness that was refreshing.
The closing scenes of Ronan at his mother’s grave, and the flight to Ireland, are a perfect bookend to the emotional beginning of this novel, and truly brought the storyline full circle. I enjoyed the secondary characters immensely. Hannah and Aunt Gwen and all the Irish clan were a treat to read about and added a lighter, humorous touch to the journey.
“When you become an adult, especially when you set out to start your own life and family, you leave the old behind. Nothing new can grow in a garden if you never remove the old.”
This is a well written, nicely paced HEA story that I would recommend, and is a great addition to the World of Love universe.
Reviewed by Carrie for The Novel Approach
May 11, 2017
A Joyfully Jay review.
3.75 stars
I picked this one up because the premise was caught my interest and I liked Ronan’s tale of finding himself. As part of the World of Love collection, this book does a great job of showing us the gorgeous country of Ireland and all the famous spots. There were times where I could almost picture the scenes the author painted with words. So it definitely worked in that regard. But I had a few small issues with other parts.
Ronan is the narrator character and this is his story. At first, I had a hard time connecting with him. Even though his loss is depicted clearly on the page, I felt a step removed, so it was hard to feel his grief. Some of his actions and words seemed out of step with what he was supposed to be feeling. He was definitely a bit inconsistent throughout the book, and the reader isn’t privy enough to his thinking to fully understand him. But as the story progressed, he grew on me, and I liked watching him find himself and get the strength to move on with the rest of his life.
I thought Fergal was completely adorable, and I loved the way he pursued Ronan in an understated and charming way. Through his interactions, we got to see the beauty of Ireland, and his feelings for Ronan were clear. We didn’t get to know Fergal as well, so I wasn’t exactly sure what made him tick, but he was an enjoyable character even if a bit two dimensional at times.
Read Kris’ review in its entirety here.
3.75 stars
I picked this one up because the premise was caught my interest and I liked Ronan’s tale of finding himself. As part of the World of Love collection, this book does a great job of showing us the gorgeous country of Ireland and all the famous spots. There were times where I could almost picture the scenes the author painted with words. So it definitely worked in that regard. But I had a few small issues with other parts.
Ronan is the narrator character and this is his story. At first, I had a hard time connecting with him. Even though his loss is depicted clearly on the page, I felt a step removed, so it was hard to feel his grief. Some of his actions and words seemed out of step with what he was supposed to be feeling. He was definitely a bit inconsistent throughout the book, and the reader isn’t privy enough to his thinking to fully understand him. But as the story progressed, he grew on me, and I liked watching him find himself and get the strength to move on with the rest of his life.
I thought Fergal was completely adorable, and I loved the way he pursued Ronan in an understated and charming way. Through his interactions, we got to see the beauty of Ireland, and his feelings for Ronan were clear. We didn’t get to know Fergal as well, so I wasn’t exactly sure what made him tick, but he was an enjoyable character even if a bit two dimensional at times.
Read Kris’ review in its entirety here.
March 1, 2019
A trip to Ireland (an audio review)
This audiobook had me sniffling within the first couple of minutes and the first few chapters were painful. Losing a loved one is tough and Ronan having to deal with his mother’s passing pulled at my heart strings. The good news is although her death affects Ronan, the story becomes more upbeat, especially when he heads over to Ireland to meet his relatives. His aunt Gwendolyn welcomes him, and his cousin Hannah is thrilled, but it’s Fergal who shows the most interest in this American visitor.
This book is a slow burn as the men get to know each other, Fergal playing tour guide, enjoying Ronan’s awe at discovering the history of Ireland. I have to admit, I was a little jealous. Ronan has a good time on his trip and definitely connects with his mother’s roots, but the lack of direction in his life is a challenge. He’s offered a path in Ireland, but he’s scared to take it.
“Isn’t love about sacrifice?”
“Nothing can grow in a garden if you don’t remove the old.”
Wise sentiments Ronan needs to hear at the crossroads. And this is a happy story with a happy ending, which I loved. In fact, I was tempted to book a trip to Ireland to meet my own family.
“Home isn’t always where you started – sometimes it’s where you end up.”
Ronan’s dad says these words to him and truer words were never spoken.
I have listened to John Steinkamp narrate other books and I enjoy his work. His Irish accent works and the performance is enjoyable.
This audiobook had me sniffling within the first couple of minutes and the first few chapters were painful. Losing a loved one is tough and Ronan having to deal with his mother’s passing pulled at my heart strings. The good news is although her death affects Ronan, the story becomes more upbeat, especially when he heads over to Ireland to meet his relatives. His aunt Gwendolyn welcomes him, and his cousin Hannah is thrilled, but it’s Fergal who shows the most interest in this American visitor.
This book is a slow burn as the men get to know each other, Fergal playing tour guide, enjoying Ronan’s awe at discovering the history of Ireland. I have to admit, I was a little jealous. Ronan has a good time on his trip and definitely connects with his mother’s roots, but the lack of direction in his life is a challenge. He’s offered a path in Ireland, but he’s scared to take it.
“Isn’t love about sacrifice?”
“Nothing can grow in a garden if you don’t remove the old.”
Wise sentiments Ronan needs to hear at the crossroads. And this is a happy story with a happy ending, which I loved. In fact, I was tempted to book a trip to Ireland to meet my own family.
“Home isn’t always where you started – sometimes it’s where you end up.”
Ronan’s dad says these words to him and truer words were never spoken.
I have listened to John Steinkamp narrate other books and I enjoy his work. His Irish accent works and the performance is enjoyable.
May 9, 2017
A Scattered Thoughts and Rogue Words review
Rating: 4 stars out of 5
For the full review, visit http://wp.me/p220KL-arV on 5/10
From that review: " Ronan Walker's mother left her beloved Ireland to marry his father and move to America, leaving part of herself behind. Ronan was raised on stories of her family, songs of Ireland and her mother's love for the land she left for a greater love. Now his mother is gone, and in his grief, Ronan is stuck. Mired in depression and his inability to move forward until a talk with his father and the sudden realization that he needs to go to Ireland...take the trip his mother waited too late to make..."
For all our reviews, author interviews, and more, visit us at http://scatteredthoughtsandroguewords...
Rating: 4 stars out of 5
For the full review, visit http://wp.me/p220KL-arV on 5/10
From that review: " Ronan Walker's mother left her beloved Ireland to marry his father and move to America, leaving part of herself behind. Ronan was raised on stories of her family, songs of Ireland and her mother's love for the land she left for a greater love. Now his mother is gone, and in his grief, Ronan is stuck. Mired in depression and his inability to move forward until a talk with his father and the sudden realization that he needs to go to Ireland...take the trip his mother waited too late to make..."
For all our reviews, author interviews, and more, visit us at http://scatteredthoughtsandroguewords...
May 15, 2017
2.75 stars rounded up
For a novella, this felt LONG!! I am willing to round it up because the author clearly wanted to highlight Ireland. Plus the beginning when Ronan's mother died, I could feel his grief. The author painted that well.
But the rest felt more or less like chicklit books I read years ago -- in which Ronan tried to find himself in the land of his mother, where he found family, love, and himself. It might interest me years ago but not very much now. Especially because I thought the romance wasn't completely fulfilled.
For a novella, this felt LONG!! I am willing to round it up because the author clearly wanted to highlight Ireland. Plus the beginning when Ronan's mother died, I could feel his grief. The author painted that well.
But the rest felt more or less like chicklit books I read years ago -- in which Ronan tried to find himself in the land of his mother, where he found family, love, and himself. It might interest me years ago but not very much now. Especially because I thought the romance wasn't completely fulfilled.
August 5, 2018
This is for the Audiobook Version. A wonderful book the writing was good. The plot was entertaining and it was steady throughout the book. I found the story and characters likeable. The characters were developed and thought out. Ronan Walker and Fergal Walsh are the MC’s of this book. There was humor, loss and grief, Ireland, family, pride parade, choices, soul searching and more in this book. The narration was good. It wasn’t monotone, and It had correct accents.
September 25, 2017
3.5 stars
November 20, 2017
This book has a lot of feelings that grab your heart from the very beginning which to me, is a winner. I really enjoyed it. It is well written, sweet, and easy to read.
August 14, 2018
** 3.75 Stars **
Oh how I wish it were longer!
June 25, 2017
*Copy of book provided by Dreamspinner Press for an honest review for Alpha Book Club
I picked up Hearts in Ireland because it’s still one of the places I really want to go visit, so I thought why not read a book set there? I haven’t read any books by this author yet, so it was a bit of a gamble whether I would like his work or not. After having read the blurb I knew I had to read this book.
The book starts out on the dark side, with Ronan’s mother passing away and him being in a bad place, avoiding all contact. After an enlightening conversation with his father, Ronan decides to follow up on his mother’s request to visit her homeland, Ireland. The moment he arrives there, all that attracts me into going to Ireland is described in the scenery. Going from the busy city to a smaller one, the descriptions of the buildings moving on to those of the nature. It was beautiful and from then on the reading became less dark and full of color.
When Ronan first met Fergal, Ronan was instantly attracted to him, but because of his state of mind, he didn’t think there was a possibility for them to become an item. He wasn’t even looking for love then, which is why their relationship started off as friendship. Since the story is only a bit over 100 pages long, the author didn’t get the chance to develop all characters in depth, which means that only a few interactions between Ronan and Fergal were told and the rest just mentioned. There was no on page sex either, just mentioned that it happened and how Ronan felt about it. There is a bit of angst, but it was understandable and I am glad it was resolved quickly.
It was a great comfort read and I definitely recommend it to everyone. Am definitely checking out the rest of the author’s books.
I picked up Hearts in Ireland because it’s still one of the places I really want to go visit, so I thought why not read a book set there? I haven’t read any books by this author yet, so it was a bit of a gamble whether I would like his work or not. After having read the blurb I knew I had to read this book.
The book starts out on the dark side, with Ronan’s mother passing away and him being in a bad place, avoiding all contact. After an enlightening conversation with his father, Ronan decides to follow up on his mother’s request to visit her homeland, Ireland. The moment he arrives there, all that attracts me into going to Ireland is described in the scenery. Going from the busy city to a smaller one, the descriptions of the buildings moving on to those of the nature. It was beautiful and from then on the reading became less dark and full of color.
When Ronan first met Fergal, Ronan was instantly attracted to him, but because of his state of mind, he didn’t think there was a possibility for them to become an item. He wasn’t even looking for love then, which is why their relationship started off as friendship. Since the story is only a bit over 100 pages long, the author didn’t get the chance to develop all characters in depth, which means that only a few interactions between Ronan and Fergal were told and the rest just mentioned. There was no on page sex either, just mentioned that it happened and how Ronan felt about it. There is a bit of angst, but it was understandable and I am glad it was resolved quickly.
It was a great comfort read and I definitely recommend it to everyone. Am definitely checking out the rest of the author’s books.
May 12, 2019
I effing loved this story! Lemme tell ya why…
Ronan lost his mother, it was heartbreaking, as it would be. He kind of got lost in himself for a while. Not knowing how to move on and heal. How does one go on after such a loss? I don’t know and dread the day I ever have to find out. His mom was born and raised in Ireland and forever talked of her life there. She’d moved to the states to marry his father many years ago, but her heart never left Ireland. She’d always wanted to take Ronan, to show him the land she loved; unfortunately, they never made it there together. It seemed like the perfect place for Ronan to go find himself…..He felt closer to her there.
Ronan’s family is amazing. Being taken in my an aunt and cousin, they love having Ronan there and want him to be happy… Even if they are a little meddlesome, it’s in the very best way. He was lucky to have them. His first day out and about, he meets Furgal. You’ll love Furgal. So incredibly Irish, that accent lol shew! I wanted to wish him real a couple times, just to hear him talk.
Furgal is smitten with Ronan right away and although their getting to know each other is spanned out over several times hanging out, you could tell that they were attracted to each other from the beginning. Of course, something goes wrong after a weekend of camping between the two, because Ronan, although knowing what he wanted and where he wanted his life to go and who he wanted in it; was just scared to take the leap. I mean, he had a job back in the states that he hated, he’d had plans to go back to school but was stuck in a rut and….really…. Ireland….and Furgal changed all that.
And then the ending…. Sigh…. I’m such a sucker for sweet, happy endings. I’d love to read more about these two; I felt like Ronan’s life was just starting, as well as their life together. I’m really crossing my fingers for more, but even if not… it didn’t end on a cliffy. I can be happy with the way things left off. It was sweet.
Overall, a very cute read. I really really enjoyed it. Low angst, amazing accents and a happy ending. What more could you need??
5 stars for me!
*I received this book by the publisher with the promise of an honest and unbiased review*
Ronan lost his mother, it was heartbreaking, as it would be. He kind of got lost in himself for a while. Not knowing how to move on and heal. How does one go on after such a loss? I don’t know and dread the day I ever have to find out. His mom was born and raised in Ireland and forever talked of her life there. She’d moved to the states to marry his father many years ago, but her heart never left Ireland. She’d always wanted to take Ronan, to show him the land she loved; unfortunately, they never made it there together. It seemed like the perfect place for Ronan to go find himself…..He felt closer to her there.
Ronan’s family is amazing. Being taken in my an aunt and cousin, they love having Ronan there and want him to be happy… Even if they are a little meddlesome, it’s in the very best way. He was lucky to have them. His first day out and about, he meets Furgal. You’ll love Furgal. So incredibly Irish, that accent lol shew! I wanted to wish him real a couple times, just to hear him talk.
Furgal is smitten with Ronan right away and although their getting to know each other is spanned out over several times hanging out, you could tell that they were attracted to each other from the beginning. Of course, something goes wrong after a weekend of camping between the two, because Ronan, although knowing what he wanted and where he wanted his life to go and who he wanted in it; was just scared to take the leap. I mean, he had a job back in the states that he hated, he’d had plans to go back to school but was stuck in a rut and….really…. Ireland….and Furgal changed all that.
And then the ending…. Sigh…. I’m such a sucker for sweet, happy endings. I’d love to read more about these two; I felt like Ronan’s life was just starting, as well as their life together. I’m really crossing my fingers for more, but even if not… it didn’t end on a cliffy. I can be happy with the way things left off. It was sweet.
Overall, a very cute read. I really really enjoyed it. Low angst, amazing accents and a happy ending. What more could you need??
5 stars for me!
*I received this book by the publisher with the promise of an honest and unbiased review*
June 12, 2017
Mommy Dearest
Ronan is mourning his mother something bad, and he has to visit her birthplace to try to sort it out--at almost 30-years of age. He has a wonderful, down to earth, bunch of relatives to visit, and Fergal, a startlingly handsome ginger clerk working in the bookstore owned by his aunt and cousin. The man on the cover is supposed to be Ronan. Not in my mind.
This is a smallish, nicely moving, romance with a lot of angst along the way about losing your mother and your confidence. It was a nice, short, read and I will look up other books by the author.
Ronan is mourning his mother something bad, and he has to visit her birthplace to try to sort it out--at almost 30-years of age. He has a wonderful, down to earth, bunch of relatives to visit, and Fergal, a startlingly handsome ginger clerk working in the bookstore owned by his aunt and cousin. The man on the cover is supposed to be Ronan. Not in my mind.
This is a smallish, nicely moving, romance with a lot of angst along the way about losing your mother and your confidence. It was a nice, short, read and I will look up other books by the author.
December 23, 2024
3.5 stars
April 16, 2017
This book was amazing!! Bring tissues!! Ronan and Fergal are so sweet!
April 29, 2017
3.5 Stars
After losing his mother, Roman spends a couple of weeks hiding in his apartment, rarely moving from the sofa, until his father finally shows up and tells him it's time to join the living again. Ronan decides to honor his mother's wish by visiting her homeland, Ireland. When Ronan steps off the plane he can't explain the feeling of home he feels, and when he meets the employee at his aunt's bookstore, Fegal, well, he doesn't realize it yet, but that seals his future.
This was a quick and easy read. It was sweet and funny, with just a bit of heartbreak. My heart broke for Ronan. Watching him deal, or quite frankly, not deal with his mother's death was heartbreaking. It was also heartbreaking to watch him have to decide between his father and the family he'd grown so close to over the short period of time he has been in Ireland. I loved not only the main characters, but the secondary characters, as well. The banter between Ronan and his cousin Hannah had me chuckling.
This was a well-written and nicely paced book. I really enjoyed getting to visit Ireland through Ronan's eyes. Ronan and Fergal had good chemistry, but I really dislike fade out sex scenes! All in all, this was an enjoyable read I'd recommend!
*Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie for my reading pleasure, a review wasn’t a requirement.*
After losing his mother, Roman spends a couple of weeks hiding in his apartment, rarely moving from the sofa, until his father finally shows up and tells him it's time to join the living again. Ronan decides to honor his mother's wish by visiting her homeland, Ireland. When Ronan steps off the plane he can't explain the feeling of home he feels, and when he meets the employee at his aunt's bookstore, Fegal, well, he doesn't realize it yet, but that seals his future.
This was a quick and easy read. It was sweet and funny, with just a bit of heartbreak. My heart broke for Ronan. Watching him deal, or quite frankly, not deal with his mother's death was heartbreaking. It was also heartbreaking to watch him have to decide between his father and the family he'd grown so close to over the short period of time he has been in Ireland. I loved not only the main characters, but the secondary characters, as well. The banter between Ronan and his cousin Hannah had me chuckling.
This was a well-written and nicely paced book. I really enjoyed getting to visit Ireland through Ronan's eyes. Ronan and Fergal had good chemistry, but I really dislike fade out sex scenes! All in all, this was an enjoyable read I'd recommend!
*Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie for my reading pleasure, a review wasn’t a requirement.*
May 1, 2017
Ronan and Fergal have issues, nothing major, but it is sweet seeing how they unraveled things. The descriptions of Ireland are beautifully written and with so much inspiration, it makes me long for the green isle. http://thetbrpile.weebly.com/reviews/...
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