Michael Quinn—tall, muscled and enough wit and blarney to win over the strictest female disciplined himself with an iron fist. He had come to the land that reminded him of home—the green hills of Ireland. There he would find his love and fight for her against the worst the world had to throw against him. He had set his sights on her and her name was Kathleen O’Hara, the virgin favored daughter of a wealthy, old-money family and owners of the well-known Tipperary. Katie, however, had dreams of Hollywood where life was whatever you acted out on the stage and the world accepted you without boundaries. She’d spent her entire life in preparation, but now that one Irishman, known as “The Mick” stood in her way.
2.5 stars. Something the blurb doesn't tell you: the story is set in the early 1960s. I didn't like Katie; we are told she is smart, but she doesn't act or sound smart. She lacks substance and doesn't really mature. While Michael wants her, I didn't see him showing any affection for her. He (and others) say she is spoiled; he continues to spoil her. I kept reading, hoping things would get better, hoping that Katie would show some backbone and personality. It didn't and she didn't. There was some uneven characterization; for the first part of the book, Katie is all about being an actress; later she mentions that she wants to write "that book" and reveals an interest in the theatre when she has never talked about these things before. Despite all her talk, Katie is a character to which things happen; she doesn't make things happen. How Katie thinks and talks is reminiscent of the tone and style of books written in the 1960s rather than a modern book about the past. I would have liked more indications of time passing -- Chapter 2 is set mid-1961 and I was surprised when an event late in the book indicated it was November 1963. Finally, one chapter changed POVs without warning; editing should have caught this.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This book is absolutely amazing! Filled with great characters and an amazing story that is full of love, steam and suspense. I loved every minute of it and was sad when I reached the end. Katie and Michael meet when he ends up doing business with her father. Michael came from Ireland and made his way and Katie was raised on a horse farm by her parents. Michael wants Katie from the minute he sees her and so devises a plan. Her father, Stanley is heavily in debt and in danger of losing his family home. In exchange for paying off these debts , Michael will take possession of the O'Hara family home and get Katie's hand in marriage in exchange the O'Hara's get to continue to live there and run the farm. Stanley is not to tell his daughter though. Michael then takes Katie to LA where she hopes to become an actress. Things are going well until his brother Colin shows up and it is then that the suspense and intrigue starts. Colin owes a lot of money to the wrong people and expects Michael to pay. He even goes so far as to force himself into living in Michael and Katie's new home that Michael buys for her when they return from California by way of a wedding chapel in Vegas. Colin begins to make their lives miserable and things get worse when Katie finds out she's pregnant. When Michael gets backed into a corner, he goes to his lawyer Saul and asks for his advice. Saul recommends selling off everything and moving away. That's the plan until the unexpected happens. The manager of the bank Michael uses brings some very interesting facts to his attention that will bring down the men trying to ruin his and Katie's life. He is able to use this to remove these men from his life for good and allow him and Katie to get their happily ever after with the baby she carries with no more threats hanging over their heads.
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Caleb Borne romances his reader with the same passion that Michael Quinn uses to win the heart of Kathleen “Katie” O’Hara. Beginning in 1950’s Ireland, but set in early1960’s America, the novel is crafted with the seemingly endless possibilities and optimism of that time period as the reader moves between the lush bluegrass country of Kentucky and its debutantes, to the sparkle of Hollywood, the glitzy glamour of Los Vegas and back to Kentucky.
Borne weaves the tale of a boy who flees his impoverished life in Ireland riding on the back of an ill-gained “lost” and “found” racing ticket’s winnings. That opportunity provides Michael all the luck he needs to start over in America by reinventing himself, using his luck and charm—gaining polish, an American accent and a backstory. Familiar with horses and racing, he moves ever closer to his goal—to establish a dynasty in the bluegrass horse county of Kentucky. But, he needs access to the tight community which he gains by introducing himself to Stanley Walter O’Hara, the owner of a local horse farm, Tipperary. It is there that Michael discovers the true prize—the beautiful Katie, the daughter of O’Hara—who becomes the ultimate desire of Michael’s heart, more valuable than all possessions.
The evolving relationship of Michael and Katie is challenged by the pulls of Katie’s family, Michael’s brother, Colin and the changing dreams of Michael and Katie themselves. The weaving of these treads leads to an engaging and suspenseful tale which Caleb Borne sets before the reader in a time capsule of American life filled with beauty, love and sacrifice. It is a love story well worth reading.
I received a free copy of this book as an ARC and am voluntarily leaving a review, but I enjoyed the reading experience so much that I bought a copy for my "read-again" titles.
This is the story of Michael Quinn, originally from Ireland who has landed in the bluegrass world of Kentucky. He fled Ireland in the late 1950’s with a knowledge of horseflesh and a very profitable “found” race ticket. He’s now an American billionaire interested in thoroughbred farms. While visiting one such farm, he is introduced to Kathleen O’Hara. He’s immediately totally smitten by her. Michael uncovers that her father has overextended his loans, and makes a deal to bail out the father in return for access to Katie in order to court her.
Katie has grown up in a sheltered and privileged situation. After her graduation from a Catholic girl’s school and awaiting her debutant ball, Katie dreams of a life where she escapes the control of parents and pursues the dream of becoming an actress in Hollywood. Michael sweeps into her world and offers her the dream of Hollywood.
Katie and Michael are swept up in each other and the sudden ominous appearance of Michael’s brother and his ties with the mafia. Caleb Bourne has drawn the readers into the dangers, secrets, betrayals, and guarded happiness of Katie and Michael. Which of the people in their lives fall on the side of deceit or trust?
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Of course, Michael Quinn came from Ireland third-class riff-raff. He only had a homeless no-good brother for family. How did he get to be a billionaire in the very early '60s, when billionaires were rare indeed? Somehow in the green hills of horse breeding and racing Kentucky that reminded him of what he loved about Ireland, he used his abilities of being able to read people and keep his eyes on his goals, while he worked the deals that made him richer. He is visiting Mr. O'Hara on his Tipperary when he meets his daughter, Kathleen, a 22-year-old just graduated from St Katherine's, and she makes sure her father invites him to her debutante ball! From there Michael is in complete charge until his brother Colin shows up uninvited bringing the Mafia with him. I loved reading this story about old Hollywood, times when we were glad we could all get private landlines, and when our country elected an Irish Catholic as president. These themes, along with the Mob, play in this story of dedicated and loyal love that pays off big time! Quinn proves himself worthy as husband and boss and multimillionaire! I hope to read more by this author!
Michael Quinn was not always rich or successful. He was however very resourceful and willing to go out on a limb and take risks. I'm also pretty sure he could charm his way out of almost any bad situation. I love the way his character exudes power and strength but also has a vulnerability that makes him even more irresistible.
Kathleen comes from a wealthy family. She's wanted for nothing growing up except adventure. She wants nothing more than to break the mold and become a Hollywood sensation. Guess who can help make all her dreams come true?
The characters share intense chemistry and are very well written. I love the mannerisms Michael displays and found myself reading all his lines with a thick Irish accent. (Think Colin Ferrell) It's enough to make anyone swoon. The story is fast paced, entertaining and does a great job blending the past with the present.. Readers will stay engaged from start to finish.
I received an advanced copy of this story through BookSprout and am leaving a voluntary honest review.
Sweet, steamy romantic thriller and that cover…the perfect Michael! This book was wonderful. Had me on the edge of my seat many times. You’ll love Michael and Katie… Michael is “Irish scruff” until a windfall occurs literally out of the blue which paves his way to America in 1953. By 1961 he’s wealthy and is interested in buying property with a stable of thoroughbred horses in Kentucky. What he doesn’t expect is the property owners’ beautiful daughter, Kathleen. She is younger but spirited which appeals to Michael. What happens next is thrilling, intriguing and sometimes sweet and seriously steamy. What happens when an unexpected guest appears on their doorstep? There were so many great moments: amusing, poignant, steamy, sad, scary and mental-fist-pump moments. If you like romantic thrillers, you will enjoy this book. I volunteered to review an ARC of this book through Booksprout and it gets 5+ Stars. NOTE to Author: I’d love an epilogue a few years into their future…
I was pulled into this story from the first page! Michael has gotten everything he’s ever wanted. A man of wealth and power, he pursues his future wife with the same determination. Katie is young, ambitious, and innocent. Their chemistry builds as he gains Katie’s trust. Michael can help her fulfill her dreams but at what price? Michael is a perfect blend of rogue & gentleman. He is strong with moments of vulnerability. Katie may be spoiled, but she’s not a brat. I loved her adventurous, loyal spirit. This story is thoughtful and well-written with good character development. It is told in first person with some flashbacks. There are a few twists and turns, dangerous situations, and ruthless characters. This is a romance with hot-blooded passion. Michael Quinn is an enjoyable weekend read!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This book is an action-packed, romantic thrill ride. The reader will love Irish ruffian turned wealthy philanthropist Michael as he journeys from Ireland to America to start a new life in the bluegrass loveliness of Kentucky in the 1950s – 1960s. A horseman by blood, he falls for the beautiful Katie, the daughter of a stable owner with whom he seeks to do business. Katie is spoiled, spirited, young, and used to getting what she wants. Through Michael’s guiding hand, her family is saved from ruin and she is taught to respect others as much as she loves herself. When Michael’s dark past catches up to him, Katie stands by his side to fight his demons and find their happiness. This book was so good that I did not want to put it down.
I read this book voluntarily as an Advanced Reader Copy through Booksprout and am leaving my honest unbiased review.
Soooo, I’m not really a fan of books based in the past and I almost gave up on this book a couple times...ok several times. I’ve read works by this author before and didn’t want to give up at the 8% mark. Needless to say, it turned out to be better than I originally thought!! I found myself getting involved with the characters and wanted to jump thru my reader to get to Colin and Michael both...they were jerks in their own way. Michael redeemed himself by taking control of the situations that brought trouble for him and Katie, and he got his wish in the end. Glad I pushed thru this unexpected journey...
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Michael Quinn is the story of an Irishman who travels to America and makes his fortune. He is immediately attracted to Kathleen O’Hara, the daughter of the owner of a thoroughbred farm which Michael is interested in purchasing. He makes a deal with Kathleen’s father to pay his debts for dating his blue-blood daughter. Just when things seem to be perfect, trouble arises with unexpected situations for the couple. Caleb Borne has written an amazing love story with a little bit of every emotion. The novel has great characters, an interesting plot, intrigue, unexpected twists, romance, and steamy chemistry. I strongly recommend this great romance.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Michael is an Irish immigrant and Katie is a southern spoiled but not bratty lady. Michael is rich, powerful and wants respect. He meets Katie and immediately is smitten with her. He can give her all her dreams but will it be worth it ? Their love for each other grows as Michael gains Katie’s trust. There is a steady growth in their relationship and then there’s so much drama. Betrayal ~ Mobsters ~ Twist and Turns that’ll shock you ~ Past comes back ~ Romance This is a great read. Michale and Katie are wonderful characters !
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Michael Quinn was a rogue Irish man who stole a winning ticket and made his way to America. Once there he builds a new life and a fortune. Kathleen lives a pampered life but yearns for more and when she meets Michael she knows what that is. I loved this book. When his past threatens to destroy the life he built he stops at nothing to prevent that from happening. I loved the story and characters. There were twists to the plots that I didn't expect.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Michael is from Ireland and has moved to Kentucky. He is a billionaire who is interested in the horse farms of Kentucky. Michael meets Kathleen, who is wanting to go to Hollywood for her chance to become an actress. Michael finds out that Katie’s father is in debt to various creditors. He will pay off some of his debt but for a price, that price is to be able to date his daughter. This book has lots of twists and turns. I really enjoyed reading this book.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This was one of the best books I've read all year! It was so original. Caleb Borne did a great job with the writing of this book. I couldn't put the book down! The book was based on the timeframe between the '50's and '60's. This added to the intrigue. Michael and Katie were a great pair. They shared true love at its finest! This book had the perfect recipe of the finer things in life, the mob, twists and turns at every corner, and page after page of a romance that lasts an eternity. I highly recommend this book!
The author has again given us characters that we can care about. Michael has brought himself up from a street rat in Ireland to a respected man in Kentucky. When he meets Katie, he knows that he needs her to be his. He does everything he can to keep her safe but his brother, Colin, finds him and threatens his and Katie's happiness.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I must admit that when I started this book I was worried that it would be very drawn out. Within a few pages Michael Quinn had me mesmorised. I pictured him as a young man who had grown up quite tough, but with a head filled with ideas he would bring to fruition. The protection he showed to his wife was so endearing. Well done Caleb Borne for keeping me entranced for long stretches at a time.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Intriguing storyline from beginning to end. Michael was such a forthright character that made no apologies for who he was or what he wanted. Like how the author wrote this book it almost seemed like it was a memoir written by Michael telling his and Kathleen story of triumphs, betrayal and love. Fitting end to such an emotional time in their lives.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Michael Quinn by Caleb Borne is a great read. engaging,intense and steamy filled with action,suspense and twist and turns that will put you on edge while reading,a story of Mick and Kate, michael is an irish and left to go in america for a better life and kate is a wealthy debutant,this an intriguing story that got me hooked from start to finish,loved it! a must have and read,well done!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This storyline is set in the past and chronicles Michael Quinn's rise to fame and fortune, as well as the meeting of a beautiful love interest. Misfortune is unearthed and used to strike a deal by our Hero. Our heroine is supposed to be intelligent but shows more of a spoiled girl. The development is lacking for the main characters and hinders the ability of the reader to engage with them. I liked it, but it could be much better with more definition.
This is a great book. Michael is from Ireland. He moved to Kentucky because it reminded him of Ireland. There he meets and falls in love with Katie. Katie wants to leave Kentucky. Michael decides to help Katie with her dreams. What follows is twists and turns that involves romance, intrigue, suspense. Great characters and plotline. The story flows smoothly.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Michael Quinn has his sights set on Kathleen O'Hara and he will do anything in his power to make her his. The lovely Kathleen has other plans for her life. She wants Michael but she wants to try her hand at being a movie star first. Michael Quinn does all he can to make sure her dreams come true. Kate is the daughter of a wealthy landowner in Tipperary, Kentucky. This story turns out to have quite a plot. I enjoyed it and would recommend it.
I enjoy the books by this author. He has a way of capturing your interest right from the start and holding it to the end. This book was no exception to that. The storyline had a strong p,it and the main characters had good chemistry. A great read.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I liked this book. The story was very interesting but would have loved a deeper background of the characters, The eventual chemistry between Michael and Kate would have been more intriguing with more knowledge of the characters. I thought it was good and would recommend this book.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This is the first book i have read by Caleb Borne & it won't be the last I loved it. The characters Michael & Katie are wonderful & their story really draws you in. It's a beautiful love story but has plenty of drama. Definately recommend this book.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This was another win from this author. I do have to warn you, that Michael's point of views are written in Irish dialect. But that was just another plus for me. Michael and Kathleen were both amazing characters and this was one great story.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
4 and half stars was a good read There were moments where I forgot what decade it as set, I found it a little slow to get into at first but it sucks up quickly and without giving away any spoilers there are a few twists not seen coming... Give it go
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
An absolutely compelling romance that is well written, well developed, and enjoyable. It is an engaging, fast pace page-turner with surprises, secrets, danger, betrayals, and twists and turns bundled together making it a fantastic on the edge of your seat read. The characters are likeable with sizzling chemistry between them. Definitely recommended.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
OMG!! I absolutely loved Michael and Katie’s story. A love story that kept me captivated and turning pages. Twist and turns that brought all my emotions to the surface and kept me intrigued and riveted to every single word. I couldn’t put it down until I finished it. Absolutely amazing storyline. I definitely recommend this book to anyone looking for an amazing read
This book is listed as an Irish Mafia story. While the mafia is in the story, it is not the primary plot. The is a great love story that sucks you in. I had to keep reminding myself that it is set in the 1960's. Great job Caleb Borne! You are fast becoming one of my favorite authors!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.