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Ivy Rose #1-3
The Ivy Rose Series #1-3)
This box set includes Through Streets Broad and Narrow, Ha’Penny Chance and The Ha’Penny Place from the Ivy Rose Series.
On New Year’s Day 1925 Ivy Rose Murphy awakes to find her world changed forever. Her irresponsible Da is dead. She is grief-stricken and alone – but for the first time in her life free to please herself.
After her mother deserted the family, Ivy became the sole provider for her da and three brothers. Pushing a pram around the well-to-do areas of Dublin every day, she begged for the discards of the wealthy which she then turned into items she could sell around Dublin’s markets.
As she visits the morgue to pay her respects to her Da, a chance meeting introduces Ivy to a new world of money and privilege, her mother's world. Ivy is suddenly a woman on a mission to improve herself and her lot in life.
Jem Ryan is the owner of a livery near Ivy’s tenement. When an accident occurs in one of his carriages, leaving a young girl homeless, it is Ivy he turns to. With Jem and the people she meets in her travels around Dublin, Ivy begins to break out of the property-ridden world that is all she has ever known.
Through Streets Broad and Narrow is a story of strength and determination in the unrelenting world that was Dublin tenement life.
Find out why readers all over the world have fallen in love with Ivy Rose
782 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 14, 2019
759 people are currently reading
238 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 59 reviews
December 15, 2023
I was not expecting the range of emotions that these three books evoked in me. I wanted the books to and I didn’t want them to end I was afraid to read the next page at times, but not able to stop. The insight into the lives of the characters in this series is astounding. The story is heartbreaking and uplifting at the same time. Resilience, hard work and strength in the face of adversity and true poverty and hardship is woven through the pages and the strongest is love and loyalty. I wanted to rage at the injustices and hug Ivy and Jem, and knock their heads together too. Their characters grow, evolve and spread their wings. You cannot help but love them.
December 30, 2022
I really enjoyed this trilogy. I am not big on writing reviews but I am still thinking about the characters several days after finishing the books so that says something. The characters were well developed & likeable. The story centered around Ivy, a young Irish lass who is left in poverty after her drunken father accidentally dies. Her response & determination to her situation was admirable & interesting. The other characters surrounding her also kept my interest. It was an easy read but I looked forward every evening to see what happens to Ivey next.
January 29, 2023
A skillfully written series that was really a page turner. At this point in my recovery from knee surgery I wanted to read a series that would keep my mind off of the unpleasantness of this recovery. All of Gemma's characters, especially Ivy Rose were really fleshed out. They intertwine with each other but in ways one can't expect. So there's an element of, "how does she deal with this horrible person, and what will happen next," or "what can she do now?" There's a love story here, but the best part is how an unfortunate young woman gets through all of her many hardships and succeeds in every way in the end. These are my favorite kinds of stories, how the character survives and is true to herself. Ivy Rose overcomes illiteracy, bad characters, and a terrible family. She gives to others and makes a good life for herself. Thanks to Gemma for introducing us to the challenges of poor Irish folk in Dublin.
January 10, 2024
I thoroughly enjoyed this trilogy and the development of the major characters in a changing environment. I am a fan of historical fiction that traps the culture at the time in an engaging manner and acts as a lesson in history as well. Being somewhat familiar with the fight for Irish indepence during the early 1900s, the books provided some context for the culture at the time. But I think, more importantly for me, it provided a view of the upstairs-downstairs conflicting cultures in place at that time. From time to time, it got a little schmaltzy, but not overly so. I also found myself laughing at some of the interactions which is my way of saying that I enjoyed this series.
December 20, 2022
Amazing read
I absolutely loved these books. I learned a lot of history of the way things were in the year my mother was
born. I love the way the characters were developed. The strength that Ivy had, her loyalty. They say what doesn't kill you makes you stronger. Emmy was a child you couldn't help but falling love with. Jem was the kind of man it would be very easy to fall in love with. But the books weren't without their villains. The only thing I did not like was in the third book, when the "F" word started showing up. Very disappointed at that.
I absolutely loved these books. I learned a lot of history of the way things were in the year my mother was
born. I love the way the characters were developed. The strength that Ivy had, her loyalty. They say what doesn't kill you makes you stronger. Emmy was a child you couldn't help but falling love with. Jem was the kind of man it would be very easy to fall in love with. But the books weren't without their villains. The only thing I did not like was in the third book, when the "F" word started showing up. Very disappointed at that.
December 12, 2020
Role-Model Extraordinaire
Ivy Rose Murphy is a role model for all of us! I read book 1 and couldn't put it down, so I immediately went for book 2 and then book 3. I'm about to open book 4. The characters in these books are so well developed that I feel like I know them or would like to have most of them for my friends. This is not Jane Austen but I like the characters better because they are real people.
Ivy Rose Murphy is a role model for all of us! I read book 1 and couldn't put it down, so I immediately went for book 2 and then book 3. I'm about to open book 4. The characters in these books are so well developed that I feel like I know them or would like to have most of them for my friends. This is not Jane Austen but I like the characters better because they are real people.
December 15, 2022
This enthralling series will keep you up late at night, as you devour every word. The main character was many faceted, resourceful, hard working, and very smart. She earned the respect and admiration of those around her and had the heart to improve their lives as well as her own.
The author painted a clear and vivid picture of life in Ireland in the early 1900's, as experienced by the hard working lower class.
I look forward to other books by this author.
The author painted a clear and vivid picture of life in Ireland in the early 1900's, as experienced by the hard working lower class.
I look forward to other books by this author.
December 18, 2022
Treadmill help
Walking on the treadmill was enjoyable while reading this engaging a trilogy. I felt like I was in the story, not sweating on the treadmill. The Irish phrases and words were interesting, but learning about the degree of poverty and the societal violence was eye-opening. It's hard to realize some of the wide ranging effects poverty had and continues to have. Very absorbing story.
Walking on the treadmill was enjoyable while reading this engaging a trilogy. I felt like I was in the story, not sweating on the treadmill. The Irish phrases and words were interesting, but learning about the degree of poverty and the societal violence was eye-opening. It's hard to realize some of the wide ranging effects poverty had and continues to have. Very absorbing story.
January 27, 2023
Irish to the max
I could not put this down. Excellent story, Gemma Jackson is a powerful writer who tells a fabulous story. She pulls you into the story and makes you feel like you're living with Ivy Rose and her "family" . From rags to riches with so many adventures and a little mystery thrown in the mix. I highly recommend this series. Was glad I got all 3 in 1 purchase. Now I'm off to put Ivy Rose s thoughts to practice.
Thank you Gemma.
I could not put this down. Excellent story, Gemma Jackson is a powerful writer who tells a fabulous story. She pulls you into the story and makes you feel like you're living with Ivy Rose and her "family" . From rags to riches with so many adventures and a little mystery thrown in the mix. I highly recommend this series. Was glad I got all 3 in 1 purchase. Now I'm off to put Ivy Rose s thoughts to practice.
Thank you Gemma.
February 10, 2023
This is a real Classic and I absolutely loved it.
Beautifully written and a wonderfully told story. I thoroughly loved this series of three books. The main character, Ivy Rose Murphy, is a force of nature with a sharp tongue, a kind heart, and an amazing assortment of neighbors. These people feel "real" and will touch your heart. They struggle through the hard times of post-WWI Ireland but come through shining as their world moves forward into a better future.
Beautifully written and a wonderfully told story. I thoroughly loved this series of three books. The main character, Ivy Rose Murphy, is a force of nature with a sharp tongue, a kind heart, and an amazing assortment of neighbors. These people feel "real" and will touch your heart. They struggle through the hard times of post-WWI Ireland but come through shining as their world moves forward into a better future.
December 23, 2023
This book was outstanding! Ivy Rose Murphy was quite character and a determined young lady. She faced each challenge head on and was a mentor to many. She had guts fortitude and such a creative mind. Loved her and Gem and their love story. I felt as if I was walking the Lane right in Dublin with Ivy as she sold and bartered for items. I am going to read more of Gemma Jackson, an excellent writer.
July 25, 2025
This is book one in a three book set I purchased a year or so ago when it came up as a deal. The premise was interesting and I enjoy this time period. This story is very good. It’s simple and straightforward while being a bit predictable but well written. I will be reading the next two books in the set soon! I enjoyed it very much and look forward to following Ivy and her found family in the continuing story.
November 13, 2020
I finished all 3 of these books in 3 days. I could not put them down and read into the night. Ivy Rose Murphy is a force to be reckoned with and she has a heart of gold and friends who look out for her. The books gave you great insight as to how life was in the 1920's Dublin.
I recommend the series.
I recommend the series.
December 21, 2020
Read Before
I started the book and realized I had read it before But I know it's been quite a while. What was nice about reading it 2 nd time is That I was able to Get into the tone of the story more Where you would hear more about the language, the close, the differences Between social classes
I started the book and realized I had read it before But I know it's been quite a while. What was nice about reading it 2 nd time is That I was able to Get into the tone of the story more Where you would hear more about the language, the close, the differences Between social classes
May 11, 2023
wonderful
I’ve read much about the times of The Troubles and the Easter Rising as well as times between, but rarely have I read stories that get so deeply into the lives of the impoverished in Ireland. These books are excellent. Characters are very well developed and the plot is engaging.
I’ve read much about the times of The Troubles and the Easter Rising as well as times between, but rarely have I read stories that get so deeply into the lives of the impoverished in Ireland. These books are excellent. Characters are very well developed and the plot is engaging.
September 17, 2023
Wonderful story that had me living in Ireland in the early 1900s. I fell in love with the main characters and was horrified by the cruelty that some can inflict on others. However, the story shows that there are good people in this world and that people who inflict harm on others can be handled through ways other than violence.
January 5, 2024
Absolutely lives Ivy Rose Series!
This was so entertaining, a story of survival, courage and love!
The fact is is set in Dublin Ireland icing on the cake for me!
Ivy Rose was a true inspiration.
Thank you Gemma Jackson for giving such rich characters as well as a glimpse into history of Dublin and the struggles of the poor and opulence of the rich!
This was so entertaining, a story of survival, courage and love!
The fact is is set in Dublin Ireland icing on the cake for me!
Ivy Rose was a true inspiration.
Thank you Gemma Jackson for giving such rich characters as well as a glimpse into history of Dublin and the struggles of the poor and opulence of the rich!
January 15, 2024
A wonder throughout this family story
I've read these books on my Kindle they read are all wonderful. Start reading if you have two days and night's to your self because you can't put any of it out of your thoughts when doing anything else . excellent author the ending is not done we need more of this story.
I've read these books on my Kindle they read are all wonderful. Start reading if you have two days and night's to your self because you can't put any of it out of your thoughts when doing anything else . excellent author the ending is not done we need more of this story.
October 5, 2024
Excellent story
Wonderfully written and very accurate portrayal of 1920s Ireland. Brilliant characters and accurate details about that era in history. A delightful trilogy where the heroine is strong and so are the supporting characters. Jackson a skilled writer. I can't wait to read more of her work.
Wonderfully written and very accurate portrayal of 1920s Ireland. Brilliant characters and accurate details about that era in history. A delightful trilogy where the heroine is strong and so are the supporting characters. Jackson a skilled writer. I can't wait to read more of her work.
October 23, 2024
Captivating Again
I’m not sure of the order to read but no problem filling in. Your manuscripts are a work of art. Trying to find them in the United States requires ordering. I’m not sure I ordered all yet, but have made a dent. Wish I knew if I missed any. Still waiting on some, hardbacks and Kindle.
I’m not sure of the order to read but no problem filling in. Your manuscripts are a work of art. Trying to find them in the United States requires ordering. I’m not sure I ordered all yet, but have made a dent. Wish I knew if I missed any. Still waiting on some, hardbacks and Kindle.
June 25, 2020
Gripping Dublin Drama
Gritty drama based in Dublin in the 20's. A vivid view of everyday people trying to get by.
Couldn't put the book down and was delighted to get the box set of 3 then found out there was a 4th
Gritty drama based in Dublin in the 20's. A vivid view of everyday people trying to get by.
Couldn't put the book down and was delighted to get the box set of 3 then found out there was a 4th
August 14, 2020
Consumed
The story of Ivy Rose holds you from the moment she opens the door to the Garda and learns of her "Da's" death. Her story continues with characters you love and some you hate but without them Ivy Rose doesn't grow and change while the world is also changing.
The story of Ivy Rose holds you from the moment she opens the door to the Garda and learns of her "Da's" death. Her story continues with characters you love and some you hate but without them Ivy Rose doesn't grow and change while the world is also changing.
December 4, 2022
Absolutely marvelous. If you like historical fiction with progressive women making a place, I highly recommend it. The characters are lovely and I needed to get this review out there. Just what I needed on some rainy days, a great tale to keep me company.
Read
December 18, 2022One of the most engrossing fiction ever read. The feeling of being part of the story as it unfolds.
Wholesome reading with no crude descriptions of any kind. Readers of any age can appreciate the rags to riches theme.
Wholesome reading with no crude descriptions of any kind. Readers of any age can appreciate the rags to riches theme.
December 18, 2022
Fantastic Irish Tale
Hard to believe that one women could be so lucky. Ive seems to have the Midus touch. Dolls, livery, clothes, morgages, doll house, every thing turns a big profit.
Hard to believe that one women could be so lucky. Ive seems to have the Midus touch. Dolls, livery, clothes, morgages, doll house, every thing turns a big profit.
December 22, 2022
Well worth the time. I just came back from Dublin in the 1920s
Story moved along wonderfully. characters were strong and well defined. Couldn't put it down. stopped trying after the first half of the first book.
Story moved along wonderfully. characters were strong and well defined. Couldn't put it down. stopped trying after the first half of the first book.
December 22, 2022
Life on the cusp
An emotionally entertaining saga of life in the 1920's when societal norms were beginning to implode. Ivy, a headstrong independent woman lifted herself, her family and her friends from the dregs of poverty through hard work and determination. Enjoyable read!
An emotionally entertaining saga of life in the 1920's when societal norms were beginning to implode. Ivy, a headstrong independent woman lifted herself, her family and her friends from the dregs of poverty through hard work and determination. Enjoyable read!
Read
January 13, 2023Wonderful story
I so enjoyed reading all 3 of these books. The story was very interesting. Seeing life through this young woman's eyes, was enlightening and intertaining. A very good read.
I so enjoyed reading all 3 of these books. The story was very interesting. Seeing life through this young woman's eyes, was enlightening and intertaining. A very good read.
February 26, 2023
Ivy Rose
Ivy Rose is a force but it takes the death of her father to bring her out of her shell. She and her friend Jem work to better there situation on the Lane and in Dublin. I have really enjoyed her and the way she conducts herself.
Ivy Rose is a force but it takes the death of her father to bring her out of her shell. She and her friend Jem work to better there situation on the Lane and in Dublin. I have really enjoyed her and the way she conducts herself.
December 15, 2023
Delightful!!
The story was wonderful from beginning end! This is a very talented writer. The characters Ivy,Jem,and Emmy were drawn so well that I felt as though they were friends.
A slice of Irish history was created so well it was a delight to learn about.
The story was wonderful from beginning end! This is a very talented writer. The characters Ivy,Jem,and Emmy were drawn so well that I felt as though they were friends.
A slice of Irish history was created so well it was a delight to learn about.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 59 reviews