A story of the aftermath, of picking up the pieces, of finding yourself again and discovering that life isn’t always easy . . . it’s not meant to be, but it can be worth it.
Ann Maguire believes that discovering the truth of her past will set her free, but sometimes having all the answers isn’t enough . . .
Forced to leave Dublin after her marriage crumbles, Ann returns to her childhood home of Knockmore, to find herself even more isolated than before. Catapulted back to grieving for her parents and the life she once knew, everything feels foreign. Perhaps her mother was right and there really is nothing here for her any more . . .
To work out how it all ends, Ann must go back to the start. Forging unlikely friendships, forcing herself through each day, the path to happiness is never easy. She soon learns it’s not about trying to mend a broken past but instead creating something new.
Craving companionship and familiarity, Ann finds herself magnetised towards another web of deceit, at which the beautiful Knockmore House, the home of her mother’s tragic childhood, is at the centre. Perhaps whoever lives there will always be tarnished by its past. Can Mark Dempsey help to fill the void of loneliness in her life? Ann can’t deny her feelings of unease about his overbearing mother, Olive, who also has secrets she’ll do anything to protect.
While overseeing renovations at Knockmore House, Ann finds herself falling for more than just the structure and begins to unearth further hidden truths. Ann becomes a pawn in a game – a dangerous one. Will Ann finally be able to set the house free? And will she find who and what means home to her?
This was the second book that I have had the pleasure of reading by Judith Cuffe and, while I did enjoy it, I had a hard time getting as into Ann's story as I had in her mother's story in the previous installment in the series, When Destiny Sings.
Ann's story follows her as she reinvents herself after a bitter divorce, and in light of finding out the dark secret behind her mother's childhood and the woman who created her. As a story of self discovery, second chances, and the hint of new romance, the novel did not fall flat. However, the characters in the story seem a little monotonous at times, and the idea that Ann and Tracy can be anything aside from surly neighbors was one I had a hard time wrapping my head around. However, I really enjoy Nathan and Sophie - I love that Sophie's happily ever after is so linked with Ann's. Their friendship is super refreshing, and just as wholesome as Ann's new relationships with Ian and Denise.
I had a blast reading this novel - even if I did enjoy When Destiny Sings a bit more - Cuffe has a way of writing perfectly flawed heroines that makes you want to sympathize with them as well as give them a shake for good measure. I am satisfied with how the book ended, and truly loved the sentiments of the last handful of paragraphs. As a journey of self love, this novel did not disappoint. And I cannot wait to begin the third installment in the series.
I received an advance review copy for free from BookSirens, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Sing Me Home is book 2 in the Evolve Trilogy, and picks up immediately after Book 1. It can be read as a standalone but I would wholeheartedly recommend you read Book 1 beforehand.
Ann is back on the Estates in Knockmore having returned following the collapse of her marriage to Dom. She tries to settle in but finds it difficult. Drawn to Mark Dempsey in Knockmore House, she finds herself unearthing hidden secrets and truths, ones that others will fight to keep.
I love books set in Ireland and this book is very reminiscent of the late Maeve Binchy's books. Sing Me Home has a great array of characters (particularly Olive) that are richly drawn and wholly realistic, you will feel as though you are part of this small Irish community yourself. This book has it all - drama, heartbreak, laughter and a vivid and uplifting feel good factor that will have you reaching for book 3 the minute you finish!
Thank you to Ms Cuffe and Poolbeg Books for a copy of Sing Me Home in exchange for my honest review.
This was the first book I read by this Author and I thorough enjoyed it.
I loved the length and depth this story took me. A story of love, loss, self discovery and so much more. The twist and turns as the story unfolded blew my mind and had me hooked.
All the characters had their place within this story which was great. I loved the variety of characters throughout this whole story. Yes, even Tracy! Felt sorry for Mark though.
It was very enjoyable to see Ann grow throughout her journey and especially loved the ending.
Look forward to reading the next installment although I will need to go back and read book 1 (which I wasn't a wear of).
I received this free copy in exchange for an honest review.
Sing Me Home was a pleasant surprise. I expected an ordinary love story or triangle. But it’s packed with dramatic punches. The history of Ann’s house and family, the history of the Dempseys, the people living in her house, her chance acquaintance with a mysterious stranger, Nathan, and her bitchy neighbor, Tracy, all added a good mix to the story.
I loved the bit were the story took dramatic twists and turns, like Jessica’s mysterious questions to her brother Mark. Nathan’s acquaintance of Olive and Olive’s sudden return from her Spanish Holiday. It just kept me hooked to the story.
I just finished reading "Sing me home" and am already impatiently awaiting the third book in the trilogy. "Sing me home" is a fantastic book and Judith is a great storyteller. I was really interested in all of the character's stories even the "not so nice " ones . I was intrigued from the beginning and kept guessing which in turn kept me hooked from the start. The humour running through it was great..during the character's nights out in particular. I thoroughly enjoyed "Sing me home" and would recommend to anyone who loves a good story.
A truly wonderful book. From the first line you’re invested with the story and you follow Ann’s journey without wanting to put the book down. A beautiful follow up to When Destiny Sings. This book can stand alone but reading the series really gives it extra depth as you meet Ann’s family through the generations.
Another gorgeous read! Judith has the most magical way of making characters come alive - I had a special soft spot for Olive and her hilarious description. So many twists and turns resulting in a strong ending. 5 STARS!
The second book in the series was a pretty decent follow-up. Although I preferred the first book, I was pleased to read "what happens next." Now, it's on to book three!
Super read, another complete page turner, I couldn't put it down. Wonderful characters, with plenty of unexpected twists. I cannot wait for book three!
Just finished reading book 2 of Evolve Trilogy which I enjoyed as much as book 1, love all the twists in the book ,ready to start book 3 of this Trilogy