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Jean Grainger Box Set: So Much Owed, Shadow of a Century, Under Heaven's Shining Stars
Three unputdownable stories of Irish love, loyalty, patriotism and betrayal.
USA Today bestseller, and winner of the Author's Circle Best Historical Fiction 2016.
'What you get with a Jean Grainger book is warm, authentic writing that welcomes you into the heart of Ireland.' Kate Kerrigan, New York Times bestselling author of the Ellis Island trilogy.
If you like Maeve Binchy, Rhys Bowen or Jojo Moyes, you’ll love Jean Grainger. Enjoy three best selling Irish stories in this great value box set.
1200+ pages, 1000+ 5* reviews
So Much Owed
The Buckley family of Dunderrig, West Cork, Ireland, find themselves drawn into WW2 despite Ireland's neutrality. From the Nazi presence in the drawing rooms of middle class Dublin to the bombed out streets of London, So Much Owed will sweep you away in a story of intrigue, betrayal, love and loyalty.
Shadow of a Century
1916 - Dublin's streets are running red with revolution as Ireland makes her final bid for freedom, but for two families the stakes are even higher than their country's liberation. Should they sacrifice their own happiness to make Ireland free?
Under Heaven’s Shining Stars
Cork 1960 - Three boys, who defy society, and the Catholic Church, to save each other. Liam, Patrick and Hugo realise that friends are often the family that we choose.
Some Amazon reviews;
‘Best historical fiction I have ever read.’
‘Jean has a knack of getting inside the Irish history and letting love shine through.’
‘Move over Maeve Binchy, this is unputdownable.’
‘Meticulously researched but presented in such an accessible way, you’ll feel like you know the characters, and you’ll really care about them.’
‘A must for anyone with Irish blood in them.’
Experience the full spectrum of emotions as these stories sweep you away to the Emerald Isle…
USA Today bestseller, and winner of the Author's Circle Best Historical Fiction 2016.
'What you get with a Jean Grainger book is warm, authentic writing that welcomes you into the heart of Ireland.' Kate Kerrigan, New York Times bestselling author of the Ellis Island trilogy.
If you like Maeve Binchy, Rhys Bowen or Jojo Moyes, you’ll love Jean Grainger. Enjoy three best selling Irish stories in this great value box set.
1200+ pages, 1000+ 5* reviews
So Much Owed
The Buckley family of Dunderrig, West Cork, Ireland, find themselves drawn into WW2 despite Ireland's neutrality. From the Nazi presence in the drawing rooms of middle class Dublin to the bombed out streets of London, So Much Owed will sweep you away in a story of intrigue, betrayal, love and loyalty.
Shadow of a Century
1916 - Dublin's streets are running red with revolution as Ireland makes her final bid for freedom, but for two families the stakes are even higher than their country's liberation. Should they sacrifice their own happiness to make Ireland free?
Under Heaven’s Shining Stars
Cork 1960 - Three boys, who defy society, and the Catholic Church, to save each other. Liam, Patrick and Hugo realise that friends are often the family that we choose.
Some Amazon reviews;
‘Best historical fiction I have ever read.’
‘Jean has a knack of getting inside the Irish history and letting love shine through.’
‘Move over Maeve Binchy, this is unputdownable.’
‘Meticulously researched but presented in such an accessible way, you’ll feel like you know the characters, and you’ll really care about them.’
‘A must for anyone with Irish blood in them.’
Experience the full spectrum of emotions as these stories sweep you away to the Emerald Isle…
- GenresHistorical Fiction
1107 pages, ebook
Published May 1, 2017
2488 people are currently reading
267 people want to read
About the author
Jean Grainger
90 books1,588 followersJean Grainger was born in Cork, Ireland. She has been a tour guide of her beloved home country, a teacher, a university lecturer and a playwright. She began writing fiction at the suggestion of her clients on tours, many of whom were sure all the stories she told them would make for a great book. Her first book, The Tour, has become a Number 1 bestseller on Amazon. It tells the story of a disparate group of American visitors to Ireland, who, along with their Irish tour guide have a life changing experience in the magical Emerald Isle.
Her second book, So Much Owed, is a family saga set during the Second World War. The story centres on the Buckley family of West Cork and how their lives are pulled in different directions as they become embroiled in the war. It is a sweeping family saga of intrigue and romance against the background of occupied Europe.
In her third novel, Shadow of a Century, she tells a tale of a battered old flag found in New York in 2016, a century after it was used during the Easter Rising, when Ireland made her final bid for freedom from Great Britain. This tells the story of a journalist who uncovers a story, one with much more to it than a flag.
Her fourth novel, due out in Spring 2016, Under Heaven’s Shining Stars, is set in the 1970s in Cork, Ireland and is a novel about friendship. Three boys, Liam, Patrick and Hugo, though from very different backgrounds are united in a deep but often times challenging friendship. As their lives progress, only by staying strong, can they prevail. Or fail.
Her novella, Letters of Freedom, tells the story of Carmel, stuck in a pointless marriage, when a figure from her past emerges and changes everything with a ‘like’ on Facebook. This quick read will touch your heart.
She lives in Cork with her husband and her two youngest children. The older two come home occasionally with laundry and to raid the fridge.
Her second book, So Much Owed, is a family saga set during the Second World War. The story centres on the Buckley family of West Cork and how their lives are pulled in different directions as they become embroiled in the war. It is a sweeping family saga of intrigue and romance against the background of occupied Europe.
In her third novel, Shadow of a Century, she tells a tale of a battered old flag found in New York in 2016, a century after it was used during the Easter Rising, when Ireland made her final bid for freedom from Great Britain. This tells the story of a journalist who uncovers a story, one with much more to it than a flag.
Her fourth novel, due out in Spring 2016, Under Heaven’s Shining Stars, is set in the 1970s in Cork, Ireland and is a novel about friendship. Three boys, Liam, Patrick and Hugo, though from very different backgrounds are united in a deep but often times challenging friendship. As their lives progress, only by staying strong, can they prevail. Or fail.
Her novella, Letters of Freedom, tells the story of Carmel, stuck in a pointless marriage, when a figure from her past emerges and changes everything with a ‘like’ on Facebook. This quick read will touch your heart.
She lives in Cork with her husband and her two youngest children. The older two come home occasionally with laundry and to raid the fridge.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 83 reviews
June 25, 2018
I suggest getting these three books in a set as it makes for much easier reading of the entire story without lengthy breaks to wait for the next book to come out. I always prefer reading the books right in a row without waiting as I am impatient when it comes to reading a series of books. I also always hate when the series ends; but they must end sometime.
February 19, 2021
Based in Ireland. Love This Series of books.
December 13, 2018
Couldn't get past Book I
I was so bored by the first book in this set I couldn't go on to the next two.
I read 'So Much Owed' and there I stopped. Several reasons! First, the story is very surface....like reading an encyclopedia definition. The story had no depth. The characters have no depth. The story has no color. The plot is predictable.
When the twins are deciding their futures prior to university and speaking to each other and Solange and/or their father they and very immature... they speak like bratty adolescent s instead of going adults. They also speak in much too modern language and slang. It's supposedly 1937. I found it hard to continue reading as I disliked them so much.
Solange is too good to be true and the wicked stepmother is actually the mother. I found the story too boring. Thumbs down on this one and I choose to not read the next two books in this series due to disinterest.
I was so bored by the first book in this set I couldn't go on to the next two.
I read 'So Much Owed' and there I stopped. Several reasons! First, the story is very surface....like reading an encyclopedia definition. The story had no depth. The characters have no depth. The story has no color. The plot is predictable.
When the twins are deciding their futures prior to university and speaking to each other and Solange and/or their father they and very immature... they speak like bratty adolescent s instead of going adults. They also speak in much too modern language and slang. It's supposedly 1937. I found it hard to continue reading as I disliked them so much.
Solange is too good to be true and the wicked stepmother is actually the mother. I found the story too boring. Thumbs down on this one and I choose to not read the next two books in this series due to disinterest.
August 5, 2018
So Much Owed - An awesome, must read book. WWII is the time frame and the story is set in Ireland and England. Interesting, multidimensional characters that keep the reader caring about them and their journey during the war. There's past history, WWI and the Troubles, faced by some of the characters that shape the decisions made during WWII. The storyline is mesmerizing and intense, immersing the reader in a world of joy, pain, sorrow and happiness. Ms. Grainger is a talented storyteller and I enjoyed everything I've read so far by her. 5*
Shadow of a Century - A well written, sad but uplifting story set in both Ireland and New York. The characters are well developed and interesting. The storylines are well thought out and hold your attention, especially the last three-quarters of the book. If you enjoyed Maeve Binchy's books, you'll enjoy both books by Jean: Shadow of a Century and Letters of Freedom. I disagreed with the main character's comments on a gun-crazed USA and the Democrats fixing all problems if in power. US politics aside, the story is worth reading. 3*
Under Heaven's Shining Stars - This story reminded me so much of Angela's Ashes. Both stories are so well told about life in a poor Irish neighborhood; although Angela's is a true story written by her son about their lives. The story is mesmerizing and I took days to devour this intense story of love, caring, acceptance and terror. The characters just blossomed, growing into maturity and grace as their lives unfolded. The story and neighborhood is typical regardless of where you live, especially during that time period when people were closer with their neighbors and communities.
Even with the bad parts, the story left warmhearted and loving and happy feelings, along with the horror. There so many ways these characters could have gone and become, but their love and support kept an even keel and good won. All the books written by this author have been very good to excellent; I highly recommend her work. This is my favorite book so far. 5*
Jean Grainger Box Set end.
What Once Was True - A well written, well thought out novel with interesting people, events and places. The historical parts are well done and personal as told by the participants of those events. The storyline blends history with the growth of all the characters. Ranging in ages and social status, the effects of the Troubles and World War II are clearly seen. If you love Binchy and Pilcher, and authors like Pearl S. Buck, this heartwarming and heart breaking world that Ms. Grainger crafted will sweep you away with her vivid descriptions and characters. 5*
Shadow of a Century - A well written, sad but uplifting story set in both Ireland and New York. The characters are well developed and interesting. The storylines are well thought out and hold your attention, especially the last three-quarters of the book. If you enjoyed Maeve Binchy's books, you'll enjoy both books by Jean: Shadow of a Century and Letters of Freedom. I disagreed with the main character's comments on a gun-crazed USA and the Democrats fixing all problems if in power. US politics aside, the story is worth reading. 3*
Under Heaven's Shining Stars - This story reminded me so much of Angela's Ashes. Both stories are so well told about life in a poor Irish neighborhood; although Angela's is a true story written by her son about their lives. The story is mesmerizing and I took days to devour this intense story of love, caring, acceptance and terror. The characters just blossomed, growing into maturity and grace as their lives unfolded. The story and neighborhood is typical regardless of where you live, especially during that time period when people were closer with their neighbors and communities.
Even with the bad parts, the story left warmhearted and loving and happy feelings, along with the horror. There so many ways these characters could have gone and become, but their love and support kept an even keel and good won. All the books written by this author have been very good to excellent; I highly recommend her work. This is my favorite book so far. 5*
Jean Grainger Box Set end.
What Once Was True - A well written, well thought out novel with interesting people, events and places. The historical parts are well done and personal as told by the participants of those events. The storyline blends history with the growth of all the characters. Ranging in ages and social status, the effects of the Troubles and World War II are clearly seen. If you love Binchy and Pilcher, and authors like Pearl S. Buck, this heartwarming and heart breaking world that Ms. Grainger crafted will sweep you away with her vivid descriptions and characters. 5*
May 22, 2023
So Much Owed
This review is for So Much Owed. I will read the other two separately. This is one of the best books I have read in a while. I've read, & enjoyed, many of Ms. Grainger's books, so that's saying a lot! It has all the prerequisites! Love, disdain, hate. Truth, lies, & everything in between. Fear & bravery. Loyalty, betrayal, trust, & faithlessness. Familial disobedience & civil disobedience, well sort of anyway! This is one of Ms. Grainger's wonderful WWII Era stories, although it begins at the end of WWI. It follows an Irish doctor, Richard, who joined the British military in order to save Irish boys lives as well as the British, yet he's called a traitor. His best friend, Jeremy, also a doctor at the same hospital has been killed, so he brings the widow, Solange (a nurse who worked there as well), back to Ireland to stay with him & his family. His wife, Edith, gives birth to twins, the night of their arrival, while Richard is already out on an emergency call! Whew! And that's just the beginning! From that point it follows the lives of the people of this household throughout the decades to come. No spoilers here! Thoughout, I felt anger, disbelief, suspicion, joy, fear, pride, shame, pain, heartbreak. I cried mad tears, sad tears, happy tears. And as usual, it ended way before I wanted it to! If you enjoy stories of this period, or even if you've not read any yet, do yourself a favor & read this book soon!
This review is for So Much Owed. I will read the other two separately. This is one of the best books I have read in a while. I've read, & enjoyed, many of Ms. Grainger's books, so that's saying a lot! It has all the prerequisites! Love, disdain, hate. Truth, lies, & everything in between. Fear & bravery. Loyalty, betrayal, trust, & faithlessness. Familial disobedience & civil disobedience, well sort of anyway! This is one of Ms. Grainger's wonderful WWII Era stories, although it begins at the end of WWI. It follows an Irish doctor, Richard, who joined the British military in order to save Irish boys lives as well as the British, yet he's called a traitor. His best friend, Jeremy, also a doctor at the same hospital has been killed, so he brings the widow, Solange (a nurse who worked there as well), back to Ireland to stay with him & his family. His wife, Edith, gives birth to twins, the night of their arrival, while Richard is already out on an emergency call! Whew! And that's just the beginning! From that point it follows the lives of the people of this household throughout the decades to come. No spoilers here! Thoughout, I felt anger, disbelief, suspicion, joy, fear, pride, shame, pain, heartbreak. I cried mad tears, sad tears, happy tears. And as usual, it ended way before I wanted it to! If you enjoy stories of this period, or even if you've not read any yet, do yourself a favor & read this book soon!
May 4, 2019
Triple Winners
5 stars for sure. The warmth and capability of love to withstand and triumph over wars, political confusion and allegiances, and faith in the toughest challenges is tremendous in all three novels. Such different viewpoints in Irish history reveals the authors depth of feeling, knowledge of Ireland, and compassion for people. I am an American descendant of Irish, English, and Scottish blood (plus German and Hungarian) and am researching my roots. Having walked the German and Hungarian homelands of my grandparents, I now plan to search the lands of family from much farther back -- beyond the American Revolution. Your works bring life to people, my people's who would have once battled one another. I am a part of each -- saints and sinners all. I now write their stories for my family and communities. Bless your work and skill as a writer. Thanks for your wisdom and heart, a fine model for a struggling writer wanting to capture the stories, history, and geography of my own people. Wish I had done more of this while still teaching.
5 stars for sure. The warmth and capability of love to withstand and triumph over wars, political confusion and allegiances, and faith in the toughest challenges is tremendous in all three novels. Such different viewpoints in Irish history reveals the authors depth of feeling, knowledge of Ireland, and compassion for people. I am an American descendant of Irish, English, and Scottish blood (plus German and Hungarian) and am researching my roots. Having walked the German and Hungarian homelands of my grandparents, I now plan to search the lands of family from much farther back -- beyond the American Revolution. Your works bring life to people, my people's who would have once battled one another. I am a part of each -- saints and sinners all. I now write their stories for my family and communities. Bless your work and skill as a writer. Thanks for your wisdom and heart, a fine model for a struggling writer wanting to capture the stories, history, and geography of my own people. Wish I had done more of this while still teaching.
December 6, 2020
If You’re Irish, Come into the Parlor!
Being of Scots-Irish heritage and a first generation American, I find Jean Grainger’s stories to be so familiar that they could be my own. The characters are so true to our national types, yet so clearly beleaguered with the same doubts about following a demanding religious tradition and living in a very confusing secular world.
The last book in this trio, Under Heaven’s Shining Stars, brings her stories up to the 1970’s, indeed a very different time. The three main characters, Liam, Peter and Hugo have vastly different backgrounds but become the fastest of friends. For anyone blest to have friends like these and a family of choice to enrich their lives will find the trials and successes familiar.
The author tackles difficult subjects, so fair warning, there is much about domestic abuse, challenges to the traditional understanding of the church’s rules, and acknowledging one’s nature. Throughout the story, though, there is an undercurrent of love and acceptance. Very thought provoking.
Being of Scots-Irish heritage and a first generation American, I find Jean Grainger’s stories to be so familiar that they could be my own. The characters are so true to our national types, yet so clearly beleaguered with the same doubts about following a demanding religious tradition and living in a very confusing secular world.
The last book in this trio, Under Heaven’s Shining Stars, brings her stories up to the 1970’s, indeed a very different time. The three main characters, Liam, Peter and Hugo have vastly different backgrounds but become the fastest of friends. For anyone blest to have friends like these and a family of choice to enrich their lives will find the trials and successes familiar.
The author tackles difficult subjects, so fair warning, there is much about domestic abuse, challenges to the traditional understanding of the church’s rules, and acknowledging one’s nature. Throughout the story, though, there is an undercurrent of love and acceptance. Very thought provoking.
April 27, 2019
Shadow of a Century
I would not recommend this book. I like historical fiction, but this is about Jean Graingers politics. Surprisingly for a book about the Irish Easter Uprising of 1916 she mocks Catholics both past and present. She goes on to praise the failed Obama care policies. I know it is a failed policy as I worked to help more and more patients get the care they need. Even though socialism has failed in every country that has tried it, Ms Grainger pushes a socialist agenda through out this book. If I wanted modern political propaganda I would just turn on the television.
I would not recommend this book. I like historical fiction, but this is about Jean Graingers politics. Surprisingly for a book about the Irish Easter Uprising of 1916 she mocks Catholics both past and present. She goes on to praise the failed Obama care policies. I know it is a failed policy as I worked to help more and more patients get the care they need. Even though socialism has failed in every country that has tried it, Ms Grainger pushes a socialist agenda through out this book. If I wanted modern political propaganda I would just turn on the television.
April 12, 2020
Fantastic Read
I chose 5 stars as this is a wonderful ly written book. Friendship ,family, trials, acceptance of one's life as well as others choices. Without judgement, but love and understanding.. Beautiful ly stated..
I would recommend anyone to read this book. Wonderful author..
As I am scotch/Irish. I am always wanting to learn more about my people.
I was very moved by how this read was it flowed easily and I couldn't put it down. Can't wait to read it again..
Looking forward to more of Jean Grainger s books.. Great writer n love the history.
I chose 5 stars as this is a wonderful ly written book. Friendship ,family, trials, acceptance of one's life as well as others choices. Without judgement, but love and understanding.. Beautiful ly stated..
I would recommend anyone to read this book. Wonderful author..
As I am scotch/Irish. I am always wanting to learn more about my people.
I was very moved by how this read was it flowed easily and I couldn't put it down. Can't wait to read it again..
Looking forward to more of Jean Grainger s books.. Great writer n love the history.
September 13, 2020
Fantastic novels!!
I didn't want to stop reading these books are so very good. The characters are so real, the stories are captivating. I laughed, I cried, at times I got so completely lost in the stories I had to take a few seconds to realize I was reading a good book not living a part!
We want families like these who love and support each other no matter what happens. We certainly want friends like these who love our true selves, the good, the bad, and the not so lovable parts. Oh, I wish this this were a 6 volume set, but then I'd still just want more.
I've found a new favorite author in Jean Grainger.
I didn't want to stop reading these books are so very good. The characters are so real, the stories are captivating. I laughed, I cried, at times I got so completely lost in the stories I had to take a few seconds to realize I was reading a good book not living a part!
We want families like these who love and support each other no matter what happens. We certainly want friends like these who love our true selves, the good, the bad, and the not so lovable parts. Oh, I wish this this were a 6 volume set, but then I'd still just want more.
I've found a new favorite author in Jean Grainger.
June 18, 2018
Three very different stand-alone books in one collection. These books will take you to 1916, where love blossoms amidst the chaos of the Irish revolution, to Dublin during WW2 and finally to 1960s Dublin. Each one is wonderful in its own right but together this collection highlights just how talented Jean Grainger is. Her characters are real with flaws, like all of us, and her descriptions of Ireland are a great touch. I definitely recommend this collection, it will appeal to everyone who just wants a very good story .. or three.
December 19, 2020
Only one word really: fandabbydosso.
Well it is true that I am a big fan of Jean Grainger's writing but this book excelled. The characters are well developed. The story ties in with history, and the plot is well paced. Generally I get a little frustrated with stories where chapters move between character groups but in the case of "So much owed" this was not the case.
I am now left with a dilemma. I have purchased the box set. Should I take a break from her work and save the next novel for a Covid Christmas treat? I think so.
Well it is true that I am a big fan of Jean Grainger's writing but this book excelled. The characters are well developed. The story ties in with history, and the plot is well paced. Generally I get a little frustrated with stories where chapters move between character groups but in the case of "So much owed" this was not the case.
I am now left with a dilemma. I have purchased the box set. Should I take a break from her work and save the next novel for a Covid Christmas treat? I think so.
September 16, 2018
Different Approaches to Life
A good book that describes how folks, different from the norm, approach their lives--a story applicable to this day and time. This is a book filled with excitement as it tells the story of three boys and how they found their niche in each of their lives. All unique but each possessed qualities that made them fine men. Each had their struggles but solved them in different ways. A wonderful story of true friendship that lasted through the years. I bought the set thinking they were connected, but the books were individual stories. Enjoyed them anyway.
A good book that describes how folks, different from the norm, approach their lives--a story applicable to this day and time. This is a book filled with excitement as it tells the story of three boys and how they found their niche in each of their lives. All unique but each possessed qualities that made them fine men. Each had their struggles but solved them in different ways. A wonderful story of true friendship that lasted through the years. I bought the set thinking they were connected, but the books were individual stories. Enjoyed them anyway.
December 17, 2020
Mesmerizing stories that get you hooked from the beginning.
Three very different stories that do not connect to each other besides the fact they take place in Ireland. They say the author writes makes you feel that you know each character personally and feel their emotions as they do.
I've enjoyed all of Jean Grainger 's book thus far, and am anxious to continue doing so. You will be as happy as I am that you've discovered her writing.
Three very different stories that do not connect to each other besides the fact they take place in Ireland. They say the author writes makes you feel that you know each character personally and feel their emotions as they do.
I've enjoyed all of Jean Grainger 's book thus far, and am anxious to continue doing so. You will be as happy as I am that you've discovered her writing.
January 20, 2023
Five stars
Outstanding books! I particularly liked Under Heaven's Shining Stars. The compassion that ran throughout it was very touching and set a great example as to what we should strive for in our lives. Jean Granger writes beautifully and each of her books are moving. I also learned a lot about Ireland's history in these books.
Ms Grainger, thank you for sharing your amazing talent with the written word!
Outstanding books! I particularly liked Under Heaven's Shining Stars. The compassion that ran throughout it was very touching and set a great example as to what we should strive for in our lives. Jean Granger writes beautifully and each of her books are moving. I also learned a lot about Ireland's history in these books.
Ms Grainger, thank you for sharing your amazing talent with the written word!
October 11, 2024
SO MUCH OWED, SHADOW OF A CENTURY, UNDER HEAVEN'S SHINING STARS
I really loved all your books and these three are a continued Irish history that makes me feel like I lived their with each family. I think I might find a cottage somewhere in Cork area and explore Ireland of today and see if the small part of my DNA that is Irish might learn about some of my family. THANK YOU JEAN again for bring your characters to life.
I really loved all your books and these three are a continued Irish history that makes me feel like I lived their with each family. I think I might find a cottage somewhere in Cork area and explore Ireland of today and see if the small part of my DNA that is Irish might learn about some of my family. THANK YOU JEAN again for bring your characters to life.
December 19, 2017
Not what I expected but better!
I purchased this boxed set thinking that the stories were connected and continuing. They are not. Each one depicts a particular era and place and all three are well written and very engaging.. I truly was sad to come to the end and wished each had continued! Grainger is a fine writer and I look forward to reading more of her work.
I purchased this boxed set thinking that the stories were connected and continuing. They are not. Each one depicts a particular era and place and all three are well written and very engaging.. I truly was sad to come to the end and wished each had continued! Grainger is a fine writer and I look forward to reading more of her work.
February 3, 2019
Beautifully written
I really enjoyed this book, especially as the young Liams faith was so we'll documented. I hate it when authors write about someone's faith badly. However I would advise that when the father have the two boys half a crown each, they had gone out of circulation by then. But really enjoy your books. Every one I'd do different from the last.
I really enjoyed this book, especially as the young Liams faith was so we'll documented. I hate it when authors write about someone's faith badly. However I would advise that when the father have the two boys half a crown each, they had gone out of circulation by then. But really enjoy your books. Every one I'd do different from the last.
October 6, 2019
A good Irish story
I have never read any of Jean Grainger's books before but, I was really interested to read the box set and was not disappointed. Her level of storytelling and her power to hold the readers attention is amazing. Now I, have read this box set I, will definate!y be reading all her books, what more could a writer need.
I have never read any of Jean Grainger's books before but, I was really interested to read the box set and was not disappointed. Her level of storytelling and her power to hold the readers attention is amazing. Now I, have read this box set I, will definate!y be reading all her books, what more could a writer need.
June 22, 2020
Enjoyable trilogy
Like other Grainger books ,they're slow at the beginning but once you get past her laying of the groundwork for the story, they pull you in. Grainger has a gift for creating memorable characters. It's what happens to those characters that keeps the reader turning the page.
o those characters
Like other Grainger books ,they're slow at the beginning but once you get past her laying of the groundwork for the story, they pull you in. Grainger has a gift for creating memorable characters. It's what happens to those characters that keeps the reader turning the page.
o those characters
October 22, 2020
My newest "following' author
Really enjoy the twists of Jean's stories. Well developed characters and scenes as well as very interesting time periods. Maybe there is a lot of other works out there, but I'm glad to have had Jean introduce me to the Irish side of the great wars and beyond.
Really enjoy the twists of Jean's stories. Well developed characters and scenes as well as very interesting time periods. Maybe there is a lot of other works out there, but I'm glad to have had Jean introduce me to the Irish side of the great wars and beyond.
February 7, 2021
Happiness and Love
This is a wonderful story of friendship, loyalty, heartache and spiritual growth. Three boys meet and grow into manhood together overcoming adversity. The author develops each character. The setting, the supporting characters and complex story line holds your interest. It's a hard book to put down.
This is a wonderful story of friendship, loyalty, heartache and spiritual growth. Three boys meet and grow into manhood together overcoming adversity. The author develops each character. The setting, the supporting characters and complex story line holds your interest. It's a hard book to put down.
February 18, 2021
The very best collection of books ever
I was amazed that I was going to be able to read the story from beginning to end without having to look for the next book! I love Jean Grainger books so this has been a very good treat for me! I think the stories are so well done with a great amount of Irish culture and atmosphere are particularly nice for me.
I was amazed that I was going to be able to read the story from beginning to end without having to look for the next book! I love Jean Grainger books so this has been a very good treat for me! I think the stories are so well done with a great amount of Irish culture and atmosphere are particularly nice for me.
June 21, 2022
Very great stories!
All three books are great. So Much Owed is set in WWII. Shadow of a Centurys set in the U.S. and Ireland, and deals with the Irish revolution, and some who came to the U.S. to escape the terrors, while Under Heaven's Shining Star deals with three young men, and how they deal with problems, I enjoyed all three.
All three books are great. So Much Owed is set in WWII. Shadow of a Centurys set in the U.S. and Ireland, and deals with the Irish revolution, and some who came to the U.S. to escape the terrors, while Under Heaven's Shining Star deals with three young men, and how they deal with problems, I enjoyed all three.
July 12, 2023
Stockholm
I love all I love all her books. You get involved with the characters I have told several of my girlfriends they're perfect. Not mention you learn a little history from each 1 of them books. You get involved with the characters I have told several of my girlfriends they're perfect. Not mention you learn a little history from each 1 of them.
I love all I love all her books. You get involved with the characters I have told several of my girlfriends they're perfect. Not mention you learn a little history from each 1 of them books. You get involved with the characters I have told several of my girlfriends they're perfect. Not mention you learn a little history from each 1 of them.
September 29, 2019
Each book is a stand alone story. Each one was wonderful. One of the books will have a squeal. But not all of them. One of the ones that will not have a squeal I wish there was going to be. Each one was a great read and hard to put down..
April 21, 2020
Wonderful.
So down to earth and not shrinking from human frailty. Understanding of friendship and the twists and turns in life and the importance to have people stand by your side.
So down to earth and not shrinking from human frailty. Understanding of friendship and the twists and turns in life and the importance to have people stand by your side.
May 17, 2020
Well developed characters
The reader learned about an area and culture during an earlier era in Cork, Ireland with interesting well developed characters and a story following the lives of three boys and their families. Kept me interested through out.
The reader learned about an area and culture during an earlier era in Cork, Ireland with interesting well developed characters and a story following the lives of three boys and their families. Kept me interested through out.
June 1, 2020
The I.importance of Family and Friendships
I really enjoyed this series of books. I could really relate to growing up in a small area Catholic family going to a Catholic school with a younger brother as an Alter boy in our neighborhood church.
I really enjoyed this series of books. I could really relate to growing up in a small area Catholic family going to a Catholic school with a younger brother as an Alter boy in our neighborhood church.
June 10, 2020
The mix of history and Characters keep you reading to find out what's gonna happen next
Just what do you think you figured out the plot . There is a change That you don't see coming.You get to know each Character in depth.
Just what do you think you figured out the plot . There is a change That you don't see coming.You get to know each Character in depth.
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