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Wilder Irish #3
March Wind
Even if I’d known I would lose Sunday McCormick Collins so early, I would have married that beautiful woman. What we shared is all I’ve ever wanted for my children and my grandchildren. Love isn’t about the happy ending. It’s about the happiness found each and every day you’re together. – Patrick “Pop” Collins
Padraig Collins loves his bartending job at Pat’s Pub, the Baltimore hangout owned by his equally beloved family. He’s young, carefree, filled with starry-eyed hopes and dreams for his future…which are irrevocably thrown off course when patron Mia Curtis comes into the bar, visibly upset. When she leaves in tears, Padraig follows. He hopes to give the young woman comfort and assurance. What he gets in return is a massive dose of reality.
Mia has a ticking time bomb in her head, an inoperable tumor, with a diagnosis of only six months to live. As Padraig lets her cry on his shoulder, listens to her heartbreakingly detail the things she’ll never get to experience, he’s forced to face some hard facts about the way he’s lived his own life up to this point. Meandering through each day as if youth means immortality, and he has all the time in the world.
An evening of soul-searching leads to a life-changing decision—Padraig will help Mia accomplish everything on her bucket list. He won’t let her die with a single regret. But that goal transforms into something far deeper when Padraig falls in love with the courageous woman. His once endless future shrinks to months instead of years, accompanied by a crushing sense of desperation.
Until they realize life isn’t measured in time. It’s measured in moments…
This story will hopefully widen your definition of a traditional happy-ever-after. Not all of us get the luxury of a lifetime…but that doesn’t mean we can’t have a lifetime’s worth of love in the time we’re given.
Padraig Collins loves his bartending job at Pat’s Pub, the Baltimore hangout owned by his equally beloved family. He’s young, carefree, filled with starry-eyed hopes and dreams for his future…which are irrevocably thrown off course when patron Mia Curtis comes into the bar, visibly upset. When she leaves in tears, Padraig follows. He hopes to give the young woman comfort and assurance. What he gets in return is a massive dose of reality.
Mia has a ticking time bomb in her head, an inoperable tumor, with a diagnosis of only six months to live. As Padraig lets her cry on his shoulder, listens to her heartbreakingly detail the things she’ll never get to experience, he’s forced to face some hard facts about the way he’s lived his own life up to this point. Meandering through each day as if youth means immortality, and he has all the time in the world.
An evening of soul-searching leads to a life-changing decision—Padraig will help Mia accomplish everything on her bucket list. He won’t let her die with a single regret. But that goal transforms into something far deeper when Padraig falls in love with the courageous woman. His once endless future shrinks to months instead of years, accompanied by a crushing sense of desperation.
Until they realize life isn’t measured in time. It’s measured in moments…
This story will hopefully widen your definition of a traditional happy-ever-after. Not all of us get the luxury of a lifetime…but that doesn’t mean we can’t have a lifetime’s worth of love in the time we’re given.
243 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 11, 2017
95 people are currently reading
415 people want to read
About the author
Mari Carr
230 books4,000 followersWriting a book was number one on Mari Carr’s bucket list. A New York Times and USA TODAY bestseller, Mari’s computer is now jammed full of stories — novels, novellas, short stories and dead-ends.
Mari writes contemporary sexy romance novels. To learn more about her spicy stories, click here.
Join her newsletter so you don't miss new releases and for exclusive subscriber-only content.
Find Mari on the web at
maricarr.com
Email: mari@maricarr.com
Mari writes contemporary sexy romance novels. To learn more about her spicy stories, click here.
Join her newsletter so you don't miss new releases and for exclusive subscriber-only content.
Find Mari on the web at
maricarr.com
Email: mari@maricarr.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 132 reviews
August 27, 2017
Mari Carr is amazing! Padraig and Mia's story was destined to be short, but what a wonderful love story it is. I was drawn into their world. I couldn't put this story down...I am guilty of staying up past my bedtime to finish this book. Padraig teaches Mia to live for the moments. In the end that's all that really matters, those special wonderful magical moments that we live. I laughed and I cried. It was worth it. Read for yourself and you too will understand.
September 5, 2017
This is one of those books that fills your heart up with joy until the emotion can't help but spill out your eyes. Mari Carr's March Wind is not the easiest book to read--I knew going in that this wasn't going to be a traditional HEA, and forewarned is forearmed :) On the other hand, there wasn't any way I wasn't going to read this story. I've enjoyed and been moved Ms Carr's books before, and know that I trust her with my reading journeys. What made this story at times hard to face was not how wonderfully it was written or how much I love her characters--it was simply knowing that these characters were going to be facing down adversity, and knowing from the get-go that sometimes we cannot triumph as completely or prevail as irrefutably as we want. Losing is not only hard; sometimes it can crush our spirits some, and it's a testament to Ms Carr that she can remind us that while we may not win the way we desire, we can indeed live victoriously and joyously and completely. Losing is not the final answer; love is.
March Wind, like every good romance, is a celebration of love, of its power to change us and move us and make our lives beautiful. It's also a reminder that love does triumph, not only in spite of adversity--even the ultimate one--but truly gives us the reason to keep on. Ms Carr's artfully written words remind us that we have the choice to seize the day, and that choosing to do so is what makes life worth living. Because an HEA isn't necessarily forever, but that doesn't mean that it isn't worth pursuing or having.
I also love how this story fits into Ms Carr's larger Wild Irish and Wilder Irish series, again with the reminder that community and family, whether made or born, can be our anchor.
Padraig Collins takes the time to talk to Mia Carter one March evening, when she comes again into Pat's Pub looking sadder and more distracted than he's ever seen her. Ms Carr takes us on their journey together, one that is compressed but not diminished. I finished each chapter with a smile, granted at times through tears. The book moves quickly, mirroring Paddy and Mia's days and moments. Throughout they are surrounded by the Collins clan and friends, and we too are buoyed by these connections that reinforce loving wisdom and compassion and support.
March Wind does not end with what I would consider a traditional HEA, but it is a nevertheless a keeper, a thing of beauty that does indeed celebrate love in its best forms and ways. This is one of those special stories that changes us and how we see the world.
Bravo, Mari Carr!
March Wind, like every good romance, is a celebration of love, of its power to change us and move us and make our lives beautiful. It's also a reminder that love does triumph, not only in spite of adversity--even the ultimate one--but truly gives us the reason to keep on. Ms Carr's artfully written words remind us that we have the choice to seize the day, and that choosing to do so is what makes life worth living. Because an HEA isn't necessarily forever, but that doesn't mean that it isn't worth pursuing or having.
I also love how this story fits into Ms Carr's larger Wild Irish and Wilder Irish series, again with the reminder that community and family, whether made or born, can be our anchor.
Padraig Collins takes the time to talk to Mia Carter one March evening, when she comes again into Pat's Pub looking sadder and more distracted than he's ever seen her. Ms Carr takes us on their journey together, one that is compressed but not diminished. I finished each chapter with a smile, granted at times through tears. The book moves quickly, mirroring Paddy and Mia's days and moments. Throughout they are surrounded by the Collins clan and friends, and we too are buoyed by these connections that reinforce loving wisdom and compassion and support.
March Wind does not end with what I would consider a traditional HEA, but it is a nevertheless a keeper, a thing of beauty that does indeed celebrate love in its best forms and ways. This is one of those special stories that changes us and how we see the world.
Bravo, Mari Carr!
August 31, 2017
If you don't fall in love with these characters, this book, and this author-then you have no soul.
This is exactly what a love story is supposed to be.
This is exactly what a love story is supposed to be.
Read
September 14, 2017I'm not gonna rate this one as I only got as far as Chapter 5!!! With the way the story was going I decided to go to the end and see if it was a HEA..... And unfortunately for me it wasn't. I know I'm in the minority here and everyone else was OK with the way it ended, but I'm a sucker for a book to end when they all get to live happily ever after!!!! Life can sometimes suck and I like to get lost in my romance books......and for me its got to end cheesy and happy.....
May 17, 2021
I knew going into this book that it was going to leave me a blubbering mess and Mari Carr did not shirk on her warning. I'm reeling. But regret nothing. Not one single word of this story. March Wind was everything it promised and warned it would be.
I picked a very personal and emotional day to read it thinking I would be able to handle it. As difficult as today is for me I am very glad to have chosen to read it on this day. March Wind opened my eyes (when I wasn't crying) and provided a whole new outlook on September 3 that I will carry with me for the rest of my days. When I started it today it was miserably cold and rainy to match my mood, when I finished I stood outside looking up at the clearing sky and the nearly full moon and made a wish on the only star I could see. My wish: That even with all the sadness that wraps around me on the anniversary of my losses, looking back on all the wonderful things I've shared with those no longer in this world with me should always outshine the dreariness of the single worst day.
I would never, ever not read a beloved author again for evoking feelings other than rainbows and unicorns in a story. If an author has the ability to give me a new prospective on how to look at the good and the bad of life then how can I take offense in that? Isn't that why we read? Isn't that a sign that the author has done her (or his) job by evoking that much feeling and thought in us? For that I commend her and her incredible talent. I want to shout to everyone I know that they MUST read March Wind. This story was so beautifully written and pulled me to every emotional edge that I couldn't help but finish it in one sitting. Please don't pass up this story just because it doesn't fit neatly in the very limited lines of a traditional HEA, I promise you will not be disappointed.
I picked a very personal and emotional day to read it thinking I would be able to handle it. As difficult as today is for me I am very glad to have chosen to read it on this day. March Wind opened my eyes (when I wasn't crying) and provided a whole new outlook on September 3 that I will carry with me for the rest of my days. When I started it today it was miserably cold and rainy to match my mood, when I finished I stood outside looking up at the clearing sky and the nearly full moon and made a wish on the only star I could see. My wish: That even with all the sadness that wraps around me on the anniversary of my losses, looking back on all the wonderful things I've shared with those no longer in this world with me should always outshine the dreariness of the single worst day.
I would never, ever not read a beloved author again for evoking feelings other than rainbows and unicorns in a story. If an author has the ability to give me a new prospective on how to look at the good and the bad of life then how can I take offense in that? Isn't that why we read? Isn't that a sign that the author has done her (or his) job by evoking that much feeling and thought in us? For that I commend her and her incredible talent. I want to shout to everyone I know that they MUST read March Wind. This story was so beautifully written and pulled me to every emotional edge that I couldn't help but finish it in one sitting. Please don't pass up this story just because it doesn't fit neatly in the very limited lines of a traditional HEA, I promise you will not be disappointed.
September 5, 2017
Wow. This was a story I had some difficulties to read. But I loved it. I am a "survivor" myself so I have had cancer very close. This story is written in an amazing flow and language. The use of the words is fantastic. They make you feel the story. I like that the author has taken this topic and written a carrying story that shows how the characters feels. Both good and bad.
It is an emotional rollercoaster! It makes you laugh, sigh, cry, wish and want to scream.
I can only recommend this to others.
I voluntered to review an advance reader copy of this book.
It is an emotional rollercoaster! It makes you laugh, sigh, cry, wish and want to scream.
I can only recommend this to others.
I voluntered to review an advance reader copy of this book.
September 5, 2017
I'm not sure where to start with this I'm really not sure but I'm going to take a deep breath and do what Mari did and write from the heart.
Did I cry? Hell yes. Did I laugh? Yep. Did I love? You bet I did. Not everyone gets forever in a package that last 60 years and Mari did a beautiful job in showing the good, the bad and the sometimes ugly side of it all. I know I will never regret picking up this book, coz you reminded me to stop stressing. If I hop in the car for an impromptu trip to the coast with my husband and the house work doesn't get done who cares coz I'm sure not going to regret it. Live for today coz tomorrow not a certain.
I love the way Mari handled the details with care and thoughtfulness, but without sugar coating it ever.
The epilogue may have made me lose it but not in a bad way. Sometimes grief is out of happiness and sadness at the same time. Happy their no longer in pain and sad to lose the person they where. Paddy forever has a place I'm my heart.
Pop Pop is the most amazing man ever and that last bit well, I don't know what got me more Paddy or him.
Thank you for daring to be different and writing the love story we all need to read.
Did I cry? Hell yes. Did I laugh? Yep. Did I love? You bet I did. Not everyone gets forever in a package that last 60 years and Mari did a beautiful job in showing the good, the bad and the sometimes ugly side of it all. I know I will never regret picking up this book, coz you reminded me to stop stressing. If I hop in the car for an impromptu trip to the coast with my husband and the house work doesn't get done who cares coz I'm sure not going to regret it. Live for today coz tomorrow not a certain.
I love the way Mari handled the details with care and thoughtfulness, but without sugar coating it ever.
The epilogue may have made me lose it but not in a bad way. Sometimes grief is out of happiness and sadness at the same time. Happy their no longer in pain and sad to lose the person they where. Paddy forever has a place I'm my heart.
Pop Pop is the most amazing man ever and that last bit well, I don't know what got me more Paddy or him.
Thank you for daring to be different and writing the love story we all need to read.
September 12, 2017
Two-fer Review
I am not sure if I can do a review of March Wind justice. Mari Carr always gave us beautiful stories about the Collins Clan but, she outdid herself with March Wind. She gave us a moving, loving, heartbreaking story that shows us what true love is all about. I look back at the books that I have given 5 Star reviews and realized that there aren’t many that could hold a candle to March Wind. A Purest Delight honor doesn’t cover this book. It was just so much more.
I’m not summarizing this story. I can’t. What I can do is tell you what this story did for me. She made me grateful for the love of my family. She made wish that I could tell the people that meant so much to me in my life what they really meant to me. Ms. Carr made me look around and realize that my life may not be perfect but, as long as I live it to the fullest and give my heart fully, I will not regret anything. I want to hug my sons and grandchild and I want them all to read this story to see what unconditional love is about. Padraig and Mia showed me the true meaning of “Life is not measured by the number of breaths you take, but by the moments that take your breath away.” They lived life in the moment and with the love of a beautiful family. They made sure everything was memorable and that she didn’t miss one thing in the time that she had. Wishes came true, bucket lists were more than filled. Family gathered, friends were made and love and support was abundant. Could you ask for anything more? We all need to start living our lives this way then maybe, just maybe, we could all start appreciating each other.
Mari Carr took a chance in writing this unconventional love story and I am so glad that she did. Some readers may not see the happily-ever-after but, it’s there. She showed the beautiful side of love and the heartbreaking side of it as well. She showed us that there is more to life than just living it. There are powers greater than us out there but, nothing is more powerful than true love. Padraig and Mia found that and honored us by letting us watch. I have read all of Mari Carr’s stories but, in all honesty, March Wind is the most powerful story that she has written. It was provocative, intense … it was beautiful and fun. It made me smile, it made me cry, it made my heart full and then broke it. But, the Epilogue is what it’s all about, what shows just how powerful Mia’s love for Padraig was. Live for the moment people … don’t let it pass you by.
Review copy provided for a voluntary review.
I’m going to be upfront and honest with you, I wasn’t sure I’d be able to get through Mari Carr’s March Wind after reading the description of it. I knew this wasn’t going to be a typical happily ever after story and I am the QUEEN of happily ever after, so I asked another reviewer to read and review it as well so I had back-up if I couldn’t finish it. Did I cry? Absolutely. Did I laugh? Often. Did I sigh? Definitely. Let me be very clear, March Wind is a LOVE STORY of epic proportions with romantic elements and it is absolutely one of the best books I have read in a long time and at the top of my favorite reads of 2017.
When Padraig (Paddy) Collins finds out that Mia Curtis, one of the regulars at his family’s pub, is dying of an inoperable brain tumor and has been given six months to live, Paddy is determined to help her despite not really knowing her well. Her list of things she wants to do is really not that much, and with each passing day Paddy is determined to help her clear her list despite her initial objections.
There was so much I loved about this book, but first and foremost was the way the entire Collins clan rallied around Mia to make sure she lived every single minute she had left in her life. They gave her friendship, a family, support, and most of all love and in the middle of it all was big hearted Paddy. This book is a testament to living life to the fullest because as much as Paddy helped Mia during these months, she helped him see he really hadn’t been living, he’d been existing in his comfortable little bubble. As each and every item is checked off of Mia’s list, both Mia and Paddy experience more love than they’ve ever known and watching them together was both poignant and beautiful.
Maybe it’s where I am in my life, maybe it’s because I’ve watched family members lose their quality of life as horrible diseases take over their bodies and minds, maybe it’s because I began a quest a couple of years ago to begin knocking things off my own bucket list, but this book truly spoke to me. I knew going in it wasn’t going to be a typical romance and that’s why I insist on calling it a love story. Paddy made the ultimate sacrifice to help a friend and found love even knowing it would not last and in doing so he gave Mia the gift of making the most of the life she had left, living every moment, and leaving the world with no regrets. To Mari Carr I say, thank you for not listening to everyone who told you not to write this story, thank you for writing this beautiful love story that rivals the book and movie by that name, and thank you for hopefully showing everyone to make the most of the life they are given because death doesn’t discriminate.
Review copy provided for a voluntary review.
I am not sure if I can do a review of March Wind justice. Mari Carr always gave us beautiful stories about the Collins Clan but, she outdid herself with March Wind. She gave us a moving, loving, heartbreaking story that shows us what true love is all about. I look back at the books that I have given 5 Star reviews and realized that there aren’t many that could hold a candle to March Wind. A Purest Delight honor doesn’t cover this book. It was just so much more.
I’m not summarizing this story. I can’t. What I can do is tell you what this story did for me. She made me grateful for the love of my family. She made wish that I could tell the people that meant so much to me in my life what they really meant to me. Ms. Carr made me look around and realize that my life may not be perfect but, as long as I live it to the fullest and give my heart fully, I will not regret anything. I want to hug my sons and grandchild and I want them all to read this story to see what unconditional love is about. Padraig and Mia showed me the true meaning of “Life is not measured by the number of breaths you take, but by the moments that take your breath away.” They lived life in the moment and with the love of a beautiful family. They made sure everything was memorable and that she didn’t miss one thing in the time that she had. Wishes came true, bucket lists were more than filled. Family gathered, friends were made and love and support was abundant. Could you ask for anything more? We all need to start living our lives this way then maybe, just maybe, we could all start appreciating each other.
Mari Carr took a chance in writing this unconventional love story and I am so glad that she did. Some readers may not see the happily-ever-after but, it’s there. She showed the beautiful side of love and the heartbreaking side of it as well. She showed us that there is more to life than just living it. There are powers greater than us out there but, nothing is more powerful than true love. Padraig and Mia found that and honored us by letting us watch. I have read all of Mari Carr’s stories but, in all honesty, March Wind is the most powerful story that she has written. It was provocative, intense … it was beautiful and fun. It made me smile, it made me cry, it made my heart full and then broke it. But, the Epilogue is what it’s all about, what shows just how powerful Mia’s love for Padraig was. Live for the moment people … don’t let it pass you by.
Review copy provided for a voluntary review.
I’m going to be upfront and honest with you, I wasn’t sure I’d be able to get through Mari Carr’s March Wind after reading the description of it. I knew this wasn’t going to be a typical happily ever after story and I am the QUEEN of happily ever after, so I asked another reviewer to read and review it as well so I had back-up if I couldn’t finish it. Did I cry? Absolutely. Did I laugh? Often. Did I sigh? Definitely. Let me be very clear, March Wind is a LOVE STORY of epic proportions with romantic elements and it is absolutely one of the best books I have read in a long time and at the top of my favorite reads of 2017.
When Padraig (Paddy) Collins finds out that Mia Curtis, one of the regulars at his family’s pub, is dying of an inoperable brain tumor and has been given six months to live, Paddy is determined to help her despite not really knowing her well. Her list of things she wants to do is really not that much, and with each passing day Paddy is determined to help her clear her list despite her initial objections.
There was so much I loved about this book, but first and foremost was the way the entire Collins clan rallied around Mia to make sure she lived every single minute she had left in her life. They gave her friendship, a family, support, and most of all love and in the middle of it all was big hearted Paddy. This book is a testament to living life to the fullest because as much as Paddy helped Mia during these months, she helped him see he really hadn’t been living, he’d been existing in his comfortable little bubble. As each and every item is checked off of Mia’s list, both Mia and Paddy experience more love than they’ve ever known and watching them together was both poignant and beautiful.
Maybe it’s where I am in my life, maybe it’s because I’ve watched family members lose their quality of life as horrible diseases take over their bodies and minds, maybe it’s because I began a quest a couple of years ago to begin knocking things off my own bucket list, but this book truly spoke to me. I knew going in it wasn’t going to be a typical romance and that’s why I insist on calling it a love story. Paddy made the ultimate sacrifice to help a friend and found love even knowing it would not last and in doing so he gave Mia the gift of making the most of the life she had left, living every moment, and leaving the world with no regrets. To Mari Carr I say, thank you for not listening to everyone who told you not to write this story, thank you for writing this beautiful love story that rivals the book and movie by that name, and thank you for hopefully showing everyone to make the most of the life they are given because death doesn’t discriminate.
Review copy provided for a voluntary review.
September 2, 2017
Bravo Mari Carr! What an amazing story! It got me right in the heart. This is book 3 of the Wilder Irish series and it features Padraig Collins and Mia Curtis. I shed a lot of tears reading this story. A lot of them were from situations that touched me so much I couldn't stop the flow. This was so beautiful and so perfectly written. It's not your average romance novel. There's not a traditional HEA but there is an HEA. There was also quite a bit of steam pouring off the screen of my e-reader.
The characters in this series are fantastic! I highly recommend reading this book. I cried a lot but at the end I closed the book with a lighter heart and some hope for Padraig's future. I can't wait for more from this FABULOUS author!
The characters in this series are fantastic! I highly recommend reading this book. I cried a lot but at the end I closed the book with a lighter heart and some hope for Padraig's future. I can't wait for more from this FABULOUS author!
August 30, 2017
Ok. Wow. I don't think I've ever cried while reading a Mari Carr story. I'm usually blushing because her stories are pretty naughty but crying? This is a first. And I'm not talking about a slight tear here and there. I'm talking buckets full of tears and lots of tissue being used. I don't think I'm spoiling anything by mentioning that Mia and Padraig have an unusual love story because they meet when she has only six months to live due to an inoperable brain tumor, which is mentioned in the synopsis. But their love story, though it may be short, was truly beautiful. Please don't discount this book and not read it because it does not have a traditional happily ever after for the couple. Their love story really is worth reading. It was beautifully written and their relationship and interactions were really sweet and fun to read. Even if there is a sad ending their journey was a remarkable one to witness.
*I voluntarily reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book*
*I voluntarily reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book*
August 27, 2017
What A Ride !
March Wind by Maggie Carr is the third book in the Wider Irish Series. March Wind can easily be read as a stand-alone, Every book is about another couple.
Meet Padraigh Collins, he´s a bartender and good with his life. And then Mia Curtis comes into his pub. He´s fascinated by her. But her time is measured. She has brain tumor and only 6 month to live. Padraigh decides to help Mia and heal his own scars too. He falls in love and together they go on a journey, they explore life.
Be prepared, you´ll need tissues, lots and lots.
This story is bittersweet. It shows a great love, it´s a heart wrenchingly story about happiness, love and loss.
Favorite Quote: " Love isn´t about the happy ending. It´s about the happiness found each and every day you´re together. "
March Wind gutted me. I suffered with the characters, I cried and then I cried more. But I love this book, much. I love the writing and I love the words. I could feel the characters emtions in the words.
I recommend March Wind and give 5 stars. Thank you, Maggie Carr.
March Wind by Maggie Carr is the third book in the Wider Irish Series. March Wind can easily be read as a stand-alone, Every book is about another couple.
Meet Padraigh Collins, he´s a bartender and good with his life. And then Mia Curtis comes into his pub. He´s fascinated by her. But her time is measured. She has brain tumor and only 6 month to live. Padraigh decides to help Mia and heal his own scars too. He falls in love and together they go on a journey, they explore life.
Be prepared, you´ll need tissues, lots and lots.
This story is bittersweet. It shows a great love, it´s a heart wrenchingly story about happiness, love and loss.
Favorite Quote: " Love isn´t about the happy ending. It´s about the happiness found each and every day you´re together. "
March Wind gutted me. I suffered with the characters, I cried and then I cried more. But I love this book, much. I love the writing and I love the words. I could feel the characters emtions in the words.
I recommend March Wind and give 5 stars. Thank you, Maggie Carr.
August 29, 2017
An enthralling, heart-wrenching, emotional and bittersweet romance story of love, life and that life is too short so grasp every moment.
I volunteered to review an advance reader copy of this book.
I volunteered to review an advance reader copy of this book.
September 5, 2017
It’s hard to put into words my thoughts and feelings on this story, but I’m going to try.
There was never a doubt in my mind that I would cry during this story. I teared up the first time I read the blurb and every time I read it after that. This isn’t your typical romance novel …it’s so much more because of how precious and poignant Padraig and Mia’s story was. The story itself took you on a roller coaster of emotions, highs and lows, laughter and tears, light hearted moments followed by deep emotional ones. Don’t think that this was all super sad, because it wasn’t. It had humor and sexiness (lots of sexiness) and family and heart.
It’s not a story to read in a stolen moment or as you’re trying to squeeze it in to a few minute opening in your day. It’s a story to sit and savor, to feel the love that these two characters experience wash over you. And more importantly to realize what this book is really all about. That time is precious. That finding happiness, no matter for how long or short a time, should be everyone’s goal. That sometimes taking a chance is the only way to go. And that you need to live your dreams and not your regrets. Mia had no regrets. And even with the pain he suffered, neither did Padraig. They lived big and fully, even if only for a short time. How many of us can really say that? I know I can’t, which is why this book hit me so hard. Three days later and I’m still crying, thinking how Mia wasn’t alone, but wondering how I can be more like her so I’m not alone.
I’m sure that some people will balk at reading it because of what isn’t your “typical” HEA. I really hope that won’t be the case for most. That would be doing yourself and the story a disservice. Read the story. Read the “Dear Reader” letter from Mari at the end. Absorb all that this story, that Padraig and Mia’s love, is about and realize that no one is guaranteed time so we need to make the most out of every single second we have.
I volunteered to read and review an advanced copy from the author and have also pre-ordered the book.
There was never a doubt in my mind that I would cry during this story. I teared up the first time I read the blurb and every time I read it after that. This isn’t your typical romance novel …it’s so much more because of how precious and poignant Padraig and Mia’s story was. The story itself took you on a roller coaster of emotions, highs and lows, laughter and tears, light hearted moments followed by deep emotional ones. Don’t think that this was all super sad, because it wasn’t. It had humor and sexiness (lots of sexiness) and family and heart.
It’s not a story to read in a stolen moment or as you’re trying to squeeze it in to a few minute opening in your day. It’s a story to sit and savor, to feel the love that these two characters experience wash over you. And more importantly to realize what this book is really all about. That time is precious. That finding happiness, no matter for how long or short a time, should be everyone’s goal. That sometimes taking a chance is the only way to go. And that you need to live your dreams and not your regrets. Mia had no regrets. And even with the pain he suffered, neither did Padraig. They lived big and fully, even if only for a short time. How many of us can really say that? I know I can’t, which is why this book hit me so hard. Three days later and I’m still crying, thinking how Mia wasn’t alone, but wondering how I can be more like her so I’m not alone.
I’m sure that some people will balk at reading it because of what isn’t your “typical” HEA. I really hope that won’t be the case for most. That would be doing yourself and the story a disservice. Read the story. Read the “Dear Reader” letter from Mari at the end. Absorb all that this story, that Padraig and Mia’s love, is about and realize that no one is guaranteed time so we need to make the most out of every single second we have.
I volunteered to read and review an advanced copy from the author and have also pre-ordered the book.
September 3, 2017
Not your traditional Happily Every After (HEA) but definitely a HEA!!!
Amazing story...you *will* need tissues (I really dislike crying with stories...but I loved Paddy's & Mia story). There are so many great lines - Pop Pop has quite a few great parts in this story. It's not just all crying - it's very uplifting & there are a few laughs in it too.
It's a great story of realizing that life is short & to love as much as you can!
Wonderful story - Highly recommend reading the "Dear Reader" letter first if you're not sure about reading the whole story.
Amazing story...you *will* need tissues (I really dislike crying with stories...but I loved Paddy's & Mia story). There are so many great lines - Pop Pop has quite a few great parts in this story. It's not just all crying - it's very uplifting & there are a few laughs in it too.
It's a great story of realizing that life is short & to love as much as you can!
Wonderful story - Highly recommend reading the "Dear Reader" letter first if you're not sure about reading the whole story.
September 11, 2017
March Wind by Mari Carr is the third book in the Wilder Irish series and what a doozy this book was.
This story brings us to Padraig "Paddy" Collins. He works in his family's pub and is Colm's twin. Paddy is a good soul with dark desires. He is definitely the type of guy who will give you the shirt off his back if you need it more than he does. He spends his days tending bar and working as hard as he can to keep people happy and smiling. Like anyone else he has hopes and dreams and knows that someday he will fulfill them all. He is young, carefree and lives life to the fullest with no real worries.
Until Mia Curtis, one of his regular patrons walks in to the pub, very obviously upset and not her usual self. Paddy feels the need to get to the bottom of her worries and give her a shoulder to unload and cry on. What he finds out changes him.
From that moment on he begins a quest to win the heart of this woman and give her "life" some meaning without regrets. Mia only knows that time for her is short and is not very comfortable allowing others into her life and leaning on them for either physical or emotional needs. She soon learns that the Collins family is a force to be reckoned with and learns what it means to be loved and to be part of a family.
This book had me in tears nearly the entire time. A wonderful, loving, beautiful and yes steamy book that kept me riveted to the very end hoping and praying for a different outcome.
This story brings us to Padraig "Paddy" Collins. He works in his family's pub and is Colm's twin. Paddy is a good soul with dark desires. He is definitely the type of guy who will give you the shirt off his back if you need it more than he does. He spends his days tending bar and working as hard as he can to keep people happy and smiling. Like anyone else he has hopes and dreams and knows that someday he will fulfill them all. He is young, carefree and lives life to the fullest with no real worries.
Until Mia Curtis, one of his regular patrons walks in to the pub, very obviously upset and not her usual self. Paddy feels the need to get to the bottom of her worries and give her a shoulder to unload and cry on. What he finds out changes him.
From that moment on he begins a quest to win the heart of this woman and give her "life" some meaning without regrets. Mia only knows that time for her is short and is not very comfortable allowing others into her life and leaning on them for either physical or emotional needs. She soon learns that the Collins family is a force to be reckoned with and learns what it means to be loved and to be part of a family.
This book had me in tears nearly the entire time. A wonderful, loving, beautiful and yes steamy book that kept me riveted to the very end hoping and praying for a different outcome.
September 8, 2017
I am beyond words as to how I can do this book justice, there isn’t enough I can say that would come close to how I feel after reading such a beautiful love story.
Paddy was destined to meet and fall in love with Mia, she changed how he saw things, basically how has been living his life. Knowing Mia only has a short time, he finds out she has a list of things she wanted to do, a bucket list, and he makes it his goal to ensure that she can accomplish as many of those goals.
I absolutely loved how Mari Carr wrote this book, even though knowing how the story was going to end, I still kept reading…why…because this story has characters that show us the power of love, show us that while your loved one will not always be there, their spirit lives on and will evoke all of us to live life to its fullest, don’t leave things for tomorrow…make plans…go out and seize the day!
You are going to realize that this is not the typical kind of love story with the ending it has but I applaud this author in that she ventured to write something different. Believe me, you will laugh, you will cry and you will want to hug every single character in this story and then maybe cry some more, but once I turned the last page, I cried again because the story had ended.
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced copy of this book.
Paddy was destined to meet and fall in love with Mia, she changed how he saw things, basically how has been living his life. Knowing Mia only has a short time, he finds out she has a list of things she wanted to do, a bucket list, and he makes it his goal to ensure that she can accomplish as many of those goals.
I absolutely loved how Mari Carr wrote this book, even though knowing how the story was going to end, I still kept reading…why…because this story has characters that show us the power of love, show us that while your loved one will not always be there, their spirit lives on and will evoke all of us to live life to its fullest, don’t leave things for tomorrow…make plans…go out and seize the day!
You are going to realize that this is not the typical kind of love story with the ending it has but I applaud this author in that she ventured to write something different. Believe me, you will laugh, you will cry and you will want to hug every single character in this story and then maybe cry some more, but once I turned the last page, I cried again because the story had ended.
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced copy of this book.
September 12, 2017
This book is definitely to be read with a box of tissues nearby. When most people think of a traditional love story it ends with everything being perfect and having a perfect life and growing old together, unfortunately that does not happen in this book but the love that is captured in the story shows how truly gifted Mari Carr is. She makes you feel so much love and compassion for both Padraig and Mia. This book can be read as a stand-alone but why would you with the kind of writing that Mari Carr has gifted to us.
Want to read
March 16, 2021🎁 Included in the Wilder Irish Boxed Set (Wilder Irish #1-4) which is FREE on Amazon & on Apple iBook today (3/16/2021)!🎁
September 13, 2020
This book is an incredibly beautiful love story that I will never forget. Mari Carr did an amazing job capturing the love between Padraig and Mia from beginning to end. There was lots of crying while reading this book and each time my mind wanders back and remember the story. I loved how Padraig and Mia made each moment together count with the love and support of the entire Collins family. This is my favorite in the Wilder Irish series and is a must read. Life isn't always what we expect and Padraig and Mia shows us to live and love one moment at a time.
January 12, 2019
My favorite ever book
This is one of my most favorite books ever. Such an amazing love story. Loved Maddy and Mia and bam so ecstatic that you wrote and published this book. Not all love stories are perfect but they are real and everyone wants them.
Thanks for writing an amazing book. Just reread this and realized I didn't write a review. Had to change that, it deserved a review.
This is one of my most favorite books ever. Such an amazing love story. Loved Maddy and Mia and bam so ecstatic that you wrote and published this book. Not all love stories are perfect but they are real and everyone wants them.
Thanks for writing an amazing book. Just reread this and realized I didn't write a review. Had to change that, it deserved a review.
April 17, 2018
DNF at 46 pages in. I just can't deal with the ending right now. It wasn't a good idea to start such a book at this moment. Will go back to it later, as I think the book is well-written.
Updated: Finished it.
Updated: Finished it.
September 8, 2022
“If you want the love, you have to embrace the hurt.”
Since books 1-2 were pleasant enough to keep me company during work, I figured I’d listen on in this series … Wild Devotion is book 3 in Carr’s “Wilder Irish” series.
Like its predecessors, there was lots to like here. I’ll recap a few:
💚Pub setting, from employees’ POV.
🧡Super relatable female lead.
💚Both MCs are Harry Potter fans.
🧡Possibly the sweetest male lead I’ve ever ‘met’.
💚Adventure! (FMC’s bucket list = adventure.)
🧡Humor—this book manages to be hilarious during even the heavier times.
💚Lots of fun pop culture references.
Overall: incredibly sweet read, powerful and .. that’s it. I’m officially a fan of this author.
4 stars.
⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
Audio:
The narrator’s voice was pleasant enough … for READING. Every time she “sang”, and I use that term loosely, it was as if someone was trying to punish me or something. PAINFUL. Please, stick to talking/reading, yikes.
Note:
I didn’t appreciate the plug for Discovery Cove in Orlando, as it enslaves cetaceans after having ripped them away from their families. #EmptyTheTanks
*That’s my only complaint.
Since books 1-2 were pleasant enough to keep me company during work, I figured I’d listen on in this series … Wild Devotion is book 3 in Carr’s “Wilder Irish” series.
Like its predecessors, there was lots to like here. I’ll recap a few:
💚Pub setting, from employees’ POV.
🧡Super relatable female lead.
💚Both MCs are Harry Potter fans.
🧡Possibly the sweetest male lead I’ve ever ‘met’.
💚Adventure! (FMC’s bucket list = adventure.)
🧡Humor—this book manages to be hilarious during even the heavier times.
💚Lots of fun pop culture references.
Overall: incredibly sweet read, powerful and .. that’s it. I’m officially a fan of this author.
4 stars.
⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
Audio:
The narrator’s voice was pleasant enough … for READING. Every time she “sang”, and I use that term loosely, it was as if someone was trying to punish me or something. PAINFUL. Please, stick to talking/reading, yikes.
Note:
I didn’t appreciate the plug for Discovery Cove in Orlando, as it enslaves cetaceans after having ripped them away from their families. #EmptyTheTanks
*That’s my only complaint.
September 10, 2017
March Wind by Mari Carr is an excellent read. All I can say is Wow! This is a beautiful and emotional book that is very far from your typical romance. Every bit as heartwarming as it is heartbreaking, this book will put your emotions through the wringer. This book will make you think and possibly change your idea of what a HEA looks like. I am posting an honest review of this book after reading an ARC copy of this book.
September 11, 2017
My heart.. I was absolutely bawling from beginning to the end. Beautifully written and had me with them every step of the way through Mia's list. But Jesus the strength of Padraigs heart and his amazing family is awe inspiring and makes me green with envy. You truly destroyed me Mari Carr.. but I'll be back for more!
April 19, 2019
My tears can't stop falling..
Cheers to living each day as if its the last day of your life ♥
Paddy and Mia - thanks for being brave and share your heart breaking story with all of us.
Cheers to living each day as if its the last day of your life ♥
Paddy and Mia - thanks for being brave and share your heart breaking story with all of us.
September 12, 2017
Mari Carr is a brilliant sadist. This book is heart wrenching in the most perfect way. I started crying at 10% in and was sobbing at the end but it was the kind of cry that heals your soul. She crafted a story about two people who have found the love of their life only to know that it won't last.
Beautiful Love Stories don't always have happy endings but while the outcome wasn't the one anyone wanted both Padraig and Mia really did get everything they needed from that love.
Beautiful Love Stories don't always have happy endings but while the outcome wasn't the one anyone wanted both Padraig and Mia really did get everything they needed from that love.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 16, 2017
Emotionally gripping masterpiece!! She makes me wish I was part of the Collins family. I loved all of the Irish series but this one was the most emotionally charged and I loved every bit of it! Once I started the book I didn't want to stop until I finished. This book touched my heart and soul. This truly was a great love story! I received an ARC from the author for an honest review.
September 21, 2017
Not many authors would write this kind of romance, but that's why it's so powerful and so memorable. It's not your usual romance, but it still pulls at the heartstrings as it makes its own definition of HEA. It's a definition that's true-to-life, empowering, and requires a box of tissues. From the first page to the last Ms. Carr crafted an epic love story, unconventional but no less satisfying despite its outcome, and it's a story I wouldn't have missed for the world.
Padraig Collins has a good life, lots of friends and family, and is content working behind his family's bar. When it comes to his love life, he's happy to play the field but has yet to find "the one". Over a few weeks he became an acquaintance of a young woman visiting his bar, but one particular night's revelations changes their lives irrevocably. From that one moment Padraig finds out what true love really means. With what little time he has with Mia he embraces life to the fullest, relishing every moment, in gestures both big and small. Throughout his time with Mia each word and deed endeared him to me. His relationship with her started out as friends, but the more time they spent together the closer their hearts became. Once they decided to become lovers he was an intriguing dichotomy of gentle and rough in scenes that had had me feeling warm fuzzies as well as making me me blush. He was everything Mia needed him to be. He was sweet and supportive, making every one of her wishes come true, and for all that he's another addition to my list of book boyfriends.
Mia was born to an uncaring mother and an absent father. The only love she ever had came from her grandmother and once she left this earth Mia found that she only had herself to count on. It's been a solitary existence until she started spending nights at Pat's Pub. Time there meant being with a family, a group of people who through fate and circumstances became a family to her. On the day she received the worst news possible she found Padraig's shoulder to cry on and from that moment on they became a formidable force in living life to the fullest. Each day she overcame the things that used to scare her. She no longer held off until tomorrow as for her there weren't that many tomorrows left. Her journey through the stages of dying were realistically depicted, she had good days and bad, and with each high and low I found myself experiencing the same. In a journey that could've been all about her she made sure to leave behind a legacy that was heartbreaking as well as heartwarming in pushing Padraig to fulfill all his own dreams. It was an expression of true love and had me clapping my hands, while wiping away my tears.
This was an epic love story, featuring powerful emotions and characters you quickly came to care about. Mia and Padraig's journey as a couple was unconventional, but no less satisfying. While living life to the fullest they took time out to smell the roses. Heartfelt talks, scorching encounters, and quiet moments of introspection were nicely balanced with the reality of Mia's time coming to an end. Although I kept hoping the outcome would change I still found myself dragged along by the beautifully nuanced storytelling and a couple whose love will never die!
Padraig Collins has a good life, lots of friends and family, and is content working behind his family's bar. When it comes to his love life, he's happy to play the field but has yet to find "the one". Over a few weeks he became an acquaintance of a young woman visiting his bar, but one particular night's revelations changes their lives irrevocably. From that one moment Padraig finds out what true love really means. With what little time he has with Mia he embraces life to the fullest, relishing every moment, in gestures both big and small. Throughout his time with Mia each word and deed endeared him to me. His relationship with her started out as friends, but the more time they spent together the closer their hearts became. Once they decided to become lovers he was an intriguing dichotomy of gentle and rough in scenes that had had me feeling warm fuzzies as well as making me me blush. He was everything Mia needed him to be. He was sweet and supportive, making every one of her wishes come true, and for all that he's another addition to my list of book boyfriends.
Mia was born to an uncaring mother and an absent father. The only love she ever had came from her grandmother and once she left this earth Mia found that she only had herself to count on. It's been a solitary existence until she started spending nights at Pat's Pub. Time there meant being with a family, a group of people who through fate and circumstances became a family to her. On the day she received the worst news possible she found Padraig's shoulder to cry on and from that moment on they became a formidable force in living life to the fullest. Each day she overcame the things that used to scare her. She no longer held off until tomorrow as for her there weren't that many tomorrows left. Her journey through the stages of dying were realistically depicted, she had good days and bad, and with each high and low I found myself experiencing the same. In a journey that could've been all about her she made sure to leave behind a legacy that was heartbreaking as well as heartwarming in pushing Padraig to fulfill all his own dreams. It was an expression of true love and had me clapping my hands, while wiping away my tears.
This was an epic love story, featuring powerful emotions and characters you quickly came to care about. Mia and Padraig's journey as a couple was unconventional, but no less satisfying. While living life to the fullest they took time out to smell the roses. Heartfelt talks, scorching encounters, and quiet moments of introspection were nicely balanced with the reality of Mia's time coming to an end. Although I kept hoping the outcome would change I still found myself dragged along by the beautifully nuanced storytelling and a couple whose love will never die!
March 1, 2025
"Happily ever after doesn't have to mean forever." Unlike most romance novels these days, Wild Devotion does not have a traditional happily-ever-after ending, and I'm fine with that. As the book description states, "Not all of us get the luxury of a lifetime . . . but that doesn't mean we can't have a lifetime's worth of love in the time we're given."
Mia is running out of time. Diagnosed with an inoperable brain tumor, she has less than one year to live. When a handsome Irish American bartender (Padraig) learns of Mia's diagnosis, he volunteers to help her experience almost everything on her bucket list: travel to Paris and Harry Potter world, see the ocean, adopt a dog, dance in a nightclub and sing karaoke, get married and have a family. As Padraig and Mia work on her list, they fall deeply in love. Padraig tells her, "It's not the end that matters. It's the life you live before the end that matters."
Raised without a family, Mia is welcomed into Padraig's large, Irish American clan in Baltimore, some of whom have stories of their own in the Wilder Irish Series. I met many of them in this story, and I especially admired Padraig's grandfather--"Pop Pop"--who stars in the prologue and epilogue. What a wise, loving man he is!
This beautiful, heartbreaking story has one flaw, in my opinion. I have nothing against steamy romantic scenes, but the lengthy, erotic descriptions of bondage and spankings between Padraig and Mia seemed strangely out of place in this otherwise sweet love story, lowering my rating to four stars overall.
Mia is running out of time. Diagnosed with an inoperable brain tumor, she has less than one year to live. When a handsome Irish American bartender (Padraig) learns of Mia's diagnosis, he volunteers to help her experience almost everything on her bucket list: travel to Paris and Harry Potter world, see the ocean, adopt a dog, dance in a nightclub and sing karaoke, get married and have a family. As Padraig and Mia work on her list, they fall deeply in love. Padraig tells her, "It's not the end that matters. It's the life you live before the end that matters."
Raised without a family, Mia is welcomed into Padraig's large, Irish American clan in Baltimore, some of whom have stories of their own in the Wilder Irish Series. I met many of them in this story, and I especially admired Padraig's grandfather--"Pop Pop"--who stars in the prologue and epilogue. What a wise, loving man he is!
This beautiful, heartbreaking story has one flaw, in my opinion. I have nothing against steamy romantic scenes, but the lengthy, erotic descriptions of bondage and spankings between Padraig and Mia seemed strangely out of place in this otherwise sweet love story, lowering my rating to four stars overall.
May 7, 2018
I have to admit, I was very hesitant about reading this book. I had heard it was a hard read, very emotional, and I knew I was going to cry! I was not wrong about that, but I'm so glad I read this story!
Padraig works in his family bar. Mia is a regular customer, and comes in one night, not acting right. Paddy follows her out of the bar when she leaves, and drags the truth out of her. She is dying. (Here is where the tears start, and they didn't really stop, even after the book was over!) She starts talking about all of the things she meant to do and never really did. Paddy decides to help her go through her "bucket list." While working through her list, they get closer, and you know what happens next!
Paddy is a sweet, giving man. He doesn't give a second thought to how he is going to feel, when this is all over. He only thinks about what he can do for Mia, how she is feeling, what she needs. Mia is such a strong woman! Even through the pain, depression and doubts, she stays determined to make the most of the time she has left.
This book had me in tears from beginning to end. Don't get me wrong, there were still lots of laughs, but I was laughing through the tears. This was a very emotional read, but totally worth it! It really makes you realize that Happy Ever After may not mean forever, and that you have to appreciate and enjoy the time that you do have. This was a beautiful story, lots of laughs, lots of tears, but definitely worth reading!
Padraig works in his family bar. Mia is a regular customer, and comes in one night, not acting right. Paddy follows her out of the bar when she leaves, and drags the truth out of her. She is dying. (Here is where the tears start, and they didn't really stop, even after the book was over!) She starts talking about all of the things she meant to do and never really did. Paddy decides to help her go through her "bucket list." While working through her list, they get closer, and you know what happens next!
Paddy is a sweet, giving man. He doesn't give a second thought to how he is going to feel, when this is all over. He only thinks about what he can do for Mia, how she is feeling, what she needs. Mia is such a strong woman! Even through the pain, depression and doubts, she stays determined to make the most of the time she has left.
This book had me in tears from beginning to end. Don't get me wrong, there were still lots of laughs, but I was laughing through the tears. This was a very emotional read, but totally worth it! It really makes you realize that Happy Ever After may not mean forever, and that you have to appreciate and enjoy the time that you do have. This was a beautiful story, lots of laughs, lots of tears, but definitely worth reading!
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