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Heirs of Ireland #3
Songs Of The Shenandoah
At the onset of the Civil War, Seamus heeds his wife’s wishes to return to her beloved family farm in the South, where he takes a post as chaplain for General Stonewall Jackson’s brigade. As Seamus ministers to the troops, his sister Clare ministers in a different way—by being a powerful voice in the Northern cause toward freeing the slaves. All this while their youngest brother Davin, who became wealthy during the Gold Rush, struggles to find love and identity in a fallen world. It’s a clash of loyalties and beliefs that threaten the entire family, each of them trying to hear God’s encouragement in the midst of the tragedy of war. The dramatic conclusion to the acclaimed Heirs of Ireland Series.
451 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 15, 2013
114 people are currently reading
321 people want to read
About the author
Michael K. Reynolds
3 books778 followersMichael K. Reynolds is the author of a series of Irish historical novels being published by B&H Publishing Group. His debut Irish historical novel, Flight of the Earls, released January, 2013.
Heirs of Ireland Historical Saga
An epic and sweeping Irish 19th century historical series written with a cinematographic eye. It features gripping suspense, memorable characters and breathtaking settings.
Book Release Dates:
Book One: Flight of the Earls, January 2013
Book Two: In Golden Splendor, July 2013
Book Three: Songs of the Shenandoah, January 2014
Michael is a writer with more than two decades of experience in crafting fiction, non-fiction, journalism, copywriting and documentary production. He is represented by Janet Kobobel Grant of Books & Such Literary Agency.
Producer of Emmy Award Winning Documentaries
Michael is also the writer and producer of an Emmy and Telly award-winning series of documentaries titled, Crystal Darkness. These thirty minute anti-meth films have been heavily promoted and broadcast in cities and states throughout the United States and Mexico. They have been viewed collectedly by more than 10 million people and the message has reached more than 30 million to date.
His most recent documentary is titled, Bullying, and tackles a rising epidemic which is causing our children to drop out of school and is the cause of depression, suicide and campus violence.
The films were produced by Global Studio, a social marketing agency Michael founded in 1998. Since that time he has served hundreds of clients throughout the nation in developing powerful and innovative marketing campaigns using a variety of mediums including: print, film, television, radio and Internet. He has extensive experience in all levels of branding, web development, social media, public relations and advertising.
He also has wide experience as a speaker and on-air personality and has been interviewed on a variety of newspapers, radio stations and televisions networks throughout the nation.
Michael earned his B.A. in Creative Writing from the University of California, San Diego and lives in Reno with his wife and three children.
He is active in marketplace, marriage, small group and men's ministries as a leader and speaker. He has served as elder at his church and is an area leader for the Fellowship of Companies for Christ International, a member of Sparks Rotary and served as chairperson for the local advisory board of the Salvation Army.
Heirs of Ireland Historical Saga
An epic and sweeping Irish 19th century historical series written with a cinematographic eye. It features gripping suspense, memorable characters and breathtaking settings.
Book Release Dates:
Book One: Flight of the Earls, January 2013
Book Two: In Golden Splendor, July 2013
Book Three: Songs of the Shenandoah, January 2014
Michael is a writer with more than two decades of experience in crafting fiction, non-fiction, journalism, copywriting and documentary production. He is represented by Janet Kobobel Grant of Books & Such Literary Agency.
Producer of Emmy Award Winning Documentaries
Michael is also the writer and producer of an Emmy and Telly award-winning series of documentaries titled, Crystal Darkness. These thirty minute anti-meth films have been heavily promoted and broadcast in cities and states throughout the United States and Mexico. They have been viewed collectedly by more than 10 million people and the message has reached more than 30 million to date.
His most recent documentary is titled, Bullying, and tackles a rising epidemic which is causing our children to drop out of school and is the cause of depression, suicide and campus violence.
The films were produced by Global Studio, a social marketing agency Michael founded in 1998. Since that time he has served hundreds of clients throughout the nation in developing powerful and innovative marketing campaigns using a variety of mediums including: print, film, television, radio and Internet. He has extensive experience in all levels of branding, web development, social media, public relations and advertising.
He also has wide experience as a speaker and on-air personality and has been interviewed on a variety of newspapers, radio stations and televisions networks throughout the nation.
Michael earned his B.A. in Creative Writing from the University of California, San Diego and lives in Reno with his wife and three children.
He is active in marketplace, marriage, small group and men's ministries as a leader and speaker. He has served as elder at his church and is an area leader for the Fellowship of Companies for Christ International, a member of Sparks Rotary and served as chairperson for the local advisory board of the Salvation Army.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews
January 10, 2014
Michael K. Reynolds has written an excellent finale to his Heirs of Ireland series. I didn't think that he could surpass the heart-warming stories of Flight of the Earls, V.1, and ln Golden Splendor, V.2. He concluded an excellent series with vivid and historical description that kept me reading non-stop.
The story takes us through the Civil War period and allows us to follow the believable characters that we first encountered in Volume 1 and 2.
We live with our characters through the effects of the Civil War, the inhumanity of slavery, and the devastating destruction to both North and South.
Through this time in our history, the author finds the good in people, allowing them to find love and forgiveness for family and others.
I truly loved the conclusion to this series and was sad to see it come to an end. Perhaps Michael K. Reynolds
will re-visit some of his characters in a future novel. I hope to make time to return to the Flight of the Earls, In Golden Splendor, and of course, Songs of the Shenandoah.
I received a free copy of this book from the author for my honest review.
The story takes us through the Civil War period and allows us to follow the believable characters that we first encountered in Volume 1 and 2.
We live with our characters through the effects of the Civil War, the inhumanity of slavery, and the devastating destruction to both North and South.
Through this time in our history, the author finds the good in people, allowing them to find love and forgiveness for family and others.
I truly loved the conclusion to this series and was sad to see it come to an end. Perhaps Michael K. Reynolds
will re-visit some of his characters in a future novel. I hope to make time to return to the Flight of the Earls, In Golden Splendor, and of course, Songs of the Shenandoah.
I received a free copy of this book from the author for my honest review.
January 25, 2014
It’s been more than 15 years since I saw Ireland in the flesh. I was 20, a college student, spending an unforgettable semester studying in England, and some friends and I took a long weekend to explore the Emerald Isle. Even before our plane landed, I knew, in a way, I was home. The land spoke to me. Weird, right? I felt it in my soul.
And author Michael K. Reynolds put that into words with his Heirs of Ireland trilogy.
"Ireland? Now that's a land you never do leave. Those of us who have lived there and even those who merely carry the thought of that place in their hearts, we are all heirs of Ireland."
I just finished the final book in the series, Songs of the Shenandoah, and I’m sad to leave these characters and settings behind. This story takes place during the American Civil War, with brothers serving on opposite sides of the conflict, and older sister Clare covering the war for her husband’s newspaper in New York. Siblings Clare, Seamus, and Davin have traveled across oceans, into the American West, fought external and internal wars, and they’re desperate to be reunited.
Nothing is easy for this family. At times, their stories are heartbreaking, and you wish they’d catch a break. But in the end, the pain, the suffering, was always worth it. That’s a risk for a writer–to ruin your characters’ lives–because we readers want the characters to be happy. (I’m not the only one, right?) But the payoff is always better because of the hard times.
Reynolds writes poetically, almost lyrically, and each book is a work of art in its own right. Together, they are a masterpiece of fiction. I will read them again.
The series starts with Flight of the Earls and continues with In Golden Splendor, covering some significant periods of 1800s American history.
A bit of Irish blood runs through my veins, which may be why this series touches me so. And it leaves me longing for a land I’ve only seen briefly and remember mostly in pictures.
One of the best historical fiction family sagas I’ve read.
And author Michael K. Reynolds put that into words with his Heirs of Ireland trilogy.
"Ireland? Now that's a land you never do leave. Those of us who have lived there and even those who merely carry the thought of that place in their hearts, we are all heirs of Ireland."
I just finished the final book in the series, Songs of the Shenandoah, and I’m sad to leave these characters and settings behind. This story takes place during the American Civil War, with brothers serving on opposite sides of the conflict, and older sister Clare covering the war for her husband’s newspaper in New York. Siblings Clare, Seamus, and Davin have traveled across oceans, into the American West, fought external and internal wars, and they’re desperate to be reunited.
Nothing is easy for this family. At times, their stories are heartbreaking, and you wish they’d catch a break. But in the end, the pain, the suffering, was always worth it. That’s a risk for a writer–to ruin your characters’ lives–because we readers want the characters to be happy. (I’m not the only one, right?) But the payoff is always better because of the hard times.
Reynolds writes poetically, almost lyrically, and each book is a work of art in its own right. Together, they are a masterpiece of fiction. I will read them again.
The series starts with Flight of the Earls and continues with In Golden Splendor, covering some significant periods of 1800s American history.
A bit of Irish blood runs through my veins, which may be why this series touches me so. And it leaves me longing for a land I’ve only seen briefly and remember mostly in pictures.
One of the best historical fiction family sagas I’ve read.
January 29, 2014
Songs of the Shenandoah (B&H Books) is a sweeping saga of family, forgiveness, and triumph set against the backdrop of the Civil War. The third and final novel in Michael K. Reynolds’ “Heirs of Ireland” series, it follows the Hanley family siblings as they are involved in various efforts on both sides of the war. Immigrants from Ireland a little over 10 years earlier during the infamous Irish Potato Famine, at the start of the novel the Hanley siblings are spread throughout the United States in different vocational pursuits. The main characters are siblings Clare, Seamus, and Davin, while Caitlyn Hanley, another sister, is a supporting character.
Eldest sibling Clare, now married to Andrew Royce, is a reporter for her husband’s inherited New York Daily newspaper. The mother figure of the family, she feels responsible for her brothers and sister even now, having brought them from Ireland. As Clare witnesses battles firsthand as a journalist, the dangers of the war become credible threats for her and her family.
Seamus Hanley is a discouraged preacher recently returned from ministering in the Sierra Mountains during the California Gold Rush. He travels to New York City with his wife and daughter, Ashlyn and Grace, to reunite with his siblings before assuming ownership of Ashlyn’s family plantation in the Shenandoah Valley of Virginia. He hopes to avoid any renewal of his Pastoral calling, believing that he has failed to fulfill his mission in the gold fields. His reluctance does not matter, however, as he is faced with a dilemma and must choose to serve as a chaplain to the Confederate army. Seamus struggles with finding his calling and maintaining his place in serving the south, no matter his personal feelings about war politics. On top of his other struggles, his decisions as a young, inexperienced soldier years earlier in the Mexican-American War still haunt him and have potential unforeseen consequences.
Youngest sibling Davin Hanley became very rich in the California Gold Rush and is recently returned to New York City. Through a series of misguided and unwise relationships, Davin finds his only reasonable option is to join the war efforts. He fights for the Union army in an Irish battalion. Brash decisions of his past concerning the treatment of his brother Seamus haunt him and cause him to question his worth and past decisions. In the turmoil of war, a beguiling nurse, Muriel McMahon, challenges Davin’s heart and his character in ways he cannot anticipate.
Reynolds successfully tells a story spread over several years’ time, without making the reader feel overwhelmed. The story is blended seamlessly through years of war and struggles. It moves swiftly and concisely while explaining key battles and scenes essential to the storyline with great detail.
The perspectives of different war participants offer depth to the story. The novel delves into the trials and triumphs of Irish regiments in the Union army, as well as immigrants in the Confederate army. The reader experiences the war through the eyes of a chaplain, private, news reporter, and nurse. With the various viewpoints explored, the reader sees that both sides of the conflict are seeking the will of God. The perspectives of each character evolve through the course of the novel, emphasizing things that truly matter, such as family, forgiveness, and redemption.
Thank you to the publisher for providing a complimentary copy of the novel in exchange for my honest review.
Eldest sibling Clare, now married to Andrew Royce, is a reporter for her husband’s inherited New York Daily newspaper. The mother figure of the family, she feels responsible for her brothers and sister even now, having brought them from Ireland. As Clare witnesses battles firsthand as a journalist, the dangers of the war become credible threats for her and her family.
Seamus Hanley is a discouraged preacher recently returned from ministering in the Sierra Mountains during the California Gold Rush. He travels to New York City with his wife and daughter, Ashlyn and Grace, to reunite with his siblings before assuming ownership of Ashlyn’s family plantation in the Shenandoah Valley of Virginia. He hopes to avoid any renewal of his Pastoral calling, believing that he has failed to fulfill his mission in the gold fields. His reluctance does not matter, however, as he is faced with a dilemma and must choose to serve as a chaplain to the Confederate army. Seamus struggles with finding his calling and maintaining his place in serving the south, no matter his personal feelings about war politics. On top of his other struggles, his decisions as a young, inexperienced soldier years earlier in the Mexican-American War still haunt him and have potential unforeseen consequences.
Youngest sibling Davin Hanley became very rich in the California Gold Rush and is recently returned to New York City. Through a series of misguided and unwise relationships, Davin finds his only reasonable option is to join the war efforts. He fights for the Union army in an Irish battalion. Brash decisions of his past concerning the treatment of his brother Seamus haunt him and cause him to question his worth and past decisions. In the turmoil of war, a beguiling nurse, Muriel McMahon, challenges Davin’s heart and his character in ways he cannot anticipate.
Reynolds successfully tells a story spread over several years’ time, without making the reader feel overwhelmed. The story is blended seamlessly through years of war and struggles. It moves swiftly and concisely while explaining key battles and scenes essential to the storyline with great detail.
The perspectives of different war participants offer depth to the story. The novel delves into the trials and triumphs of Irish regiments in the Union army, as well as immigrants in the Confederate army. The reader experiences the war through the eyes of a chaplain, private, news reporter, and nurse. With the various viewpoints explored, the reader sees that both sides of the conflict are seeking the will of God. The perspectives of each character evolve through the course of the novel, emphasizing things that truly matter, such as family, forgiveness, and redemption.
Thank you to the publisher for providing a complimentary copy of the novel in exchange for my honest review.
January 8, 2014
I really love Michael Reynolds writing and have enjoyed each of the other two Heirs of Ireland novels so I was really looking forward to his next installment in the series: Songs of the Shenandoah.
Flight of the Earls and In Golden Splendor kicked off the series and with each new book I learn more about the characters and grow to love them more!
What I like about this series is that it IS the same characters throughout, sometimes focusing on one story more than another but keeping them all in the circle. I don’t like it when I’m reading a series expecting to learn more about the characters I fell in love with in the first book, only to discover that the new book has nothing to do with them but someone connected to them.
Reynolds writing captivated me from the first so I always know I’m going to get a deep story with great plot lines that are slowly woven together throughout the story. His books are always longer than I usually like but each one still seems like a short book because I’m so into it I go right through it.
I liked this book better than the last but his first is still my favorite. This story focuses again on Seamus and his family as they return to her home farm and find things not exactly as they were left! She worries the past might rear it’s ugly head in regards to the daughter that was not fathered by Seamus.
Meanwhile his sister Clare is still in New York and after the reunion with her brother she goes back to working for the causes that bring passion to her heart. Seeing firsthand the casualties of war, she finds new purpose in her own life.
Reynolds is the master at captivating you with his characters and their stories and successfully blending them all together where you are equally intrigued by each. Songs of the Shenandoah was a great installment to the Heirs of Irelands series and once again, he has me eagerly anticipating the next.
Flight of the Earls and In Golden Splendor kicked off the series and with each new book I learn more about the characters and grow to love them more!
What I like about this series is that it IS the same characters throughout, sometimes focusing on one story more than another but keeping them all in the circle. I don’t like it when I’m reading a series expecting to learn more about the characters I fell in love with in the first book, only to discover that the new book has nothing to do with them but someone connected to them.
Reynolds writing captivated me from the first so I always know I’m going to get a deep story with great plot lines that are slowly woven together throughout the story. His books are always longer than I usually like but each one still seems like a short book because I’m so into it I go right through it.
I liked this book better than the last but his first is still my favorite. This story focuses again on Seamus and his family as they return to her home farm and find things not exactly as they were left! She worries the past might rear it’s ugly head in regards to the daughter that was not fathered by Seamus.
Meanwhile his sister Clare is still in New York and after the reunion with her brother she goes back to working for the causes that bring passion to her heart. Seeing firsthand the casualties of war, she finds new purpose in her own life.
Reynolds is the master at captivating you with his characters and their stories and successfully blending them all together where you are equally intrigued by each. Songs of the Shenandoah was a great installment to the Heirs of Irelands series and once again, he has me eagerly anticipating the next.
November 28, 2013
There were so many wonderful things about this book. There are twists and turns that will keep your mind racing and your eyes scurrying across the pages reading chapter after chapter! There are your old favorite characters and new ones that you will come to love! There are moments in this book that will snatch you from elation, to sorrow, move you to tears, and back again.
Not only are the main characters (the Hanley and Royce families) captivating, the less central characters were amazing as well. Reverend Zachary and Cassie Bridger are an amazing pair of people. Sweet Owen warmed my heart with his optimism, hard work, and humble spirit. Muriel totally shocked me and yet I love her character. And Jacob! Dear Jacob! I can’t say anything about him without revealing major plot spoilers but oh how I love Jacob!! And then Percy Barlow….My heart breaks for Percy…people who have read the second book but not the third will think I’m crazy but trust me, by the end you will understand…what a tragedy.
The sweeping conclusion to Heirs of Ireland is so worth the read! If you haven’t begun the series, please do! And if you have, please keep reading to the finish! You won’t want to miss any of it! Get your copy of Songs of the Shenandoah by Michael K. Reynolds when it releases on January 1st, 2014!
I wrote a more detailed review here on my blog :
http://seelizzieread.blogspot.com/2013/11/songs-of-shenandoah-by-michael-k.html
Not only are the main characters (the Hanley and Royce families) captivating, the less central characters were amazing as well. Reverend Zachary and Cassie Bridger are an amazing pair of people. Sweet Owen warmed my heart with his optimism, hard work, and humble spirit. Muriel totally shocked me and yet I love her character. And Jacob! Dear Jacob! I can’t say anything about him without revealing major plot spoilers but oh how I love Jacob!! And then Percy Barlow….My heart breaks for Percy…people who have read the second book but not the third will think I’m crazy but trust me, by the end you will understand…what a tragedy.
The sweeping conclusion to Heirs of Ireland is so worth the read! If you haven’t begun the series, please do! And if you have, please keep reading to the finish! You won’t want to miss any of it! Get your copy of Songs of the Shenandoah by Michael K. Reynolds when it releases on January 1st, 2014!
I wrote a more detailed review here on my blog :
http://seelizzieread.blogspot.com/2013/11/songs-of-shenandoah-by-michael-k.html
January 1, 2014
My Review:
This story so sweetly finalized as the last in the Heirs of Ireland series, is outstanding. I loved the series and this one ends on a strong note. I loved the story of the Royce family and the intertwining of the other people that are attached to them in one way or another.
I felt closely connected to Seamus and his family more probably because he was a minister and his wife whom he just adores, travel back to her old plantation home--the one in which she had spent her early years to make a go of farming that land. He had grown up poor and nearly starving and had swore to himself he would never be a farmer. My, how life seems to change those things for us in a quick second.
Davin seems to have let his gold fortune go to his head. Being arrogant seems to not really suit him as well as he thinks. He falls in love with a young girl that is a boarder in his sisters home. Her name-Muriel she is studying to become a doctor and she is very much taken with him.
The Hanley family is also for captivating and there are so many unexpected things always happening the story I could see why it would take over 60 chapter to tell their stories. I loved so many aspects of the book but I really liked the story in the beginning of the family's Christmas. Clare's children Garret and Ella seem like such sweethearts, and the story of Ella going out in the snow to get snowballs for her brother was just pure sweetness.
**Disclosure** This book was sent to me free of charge for my honest review from CFBA.
This story so sweetly finalized as the last in the Heirs of Ireland series, is outstanding. I loved the series and this one ends on a strong note. I loved the story of the Royce family and the intertwining of the other people that are attached to them in one way or another.
I felt closely connected to Seamus and his family more probably because he was a minister and his wife whom he just adores, travel back to her old plantation home--the one in which she had spent her early years to make a go of farming that land. He had grown up poor and nearly starving and had swore to himself he would never be a farmer. My, how life seems to change those things for us in a quick second.
Davin seems to have let his gold fortune go to his head. Being arrogant seems to not really suit him as well as he thinks. He falls in love with a young girl that is a boarder in his sisters home. Her name-Muriel she is studying to become a doctor and she is very much taken with him.
The Hanley family is also for captivating and there are so many unexpected things always happening the story I could see why it would take over 60 chapter to tell their stories. I loved so many aspects of the book but I really liked the story in the beginning of the family's Christmas. Clare's children Garret and Ella seem like such sweethearts, and the story of Ella going out in the snow to get snowballs for her brother was just pure sweetness.
**Disclosure** This book was sent to me free of charge for my honest review from CFBA.
March 17, 2015
This is the last book of The Heirs of Ireland trilogy, which picks up about 10 years after the 2nd book, In Golden Splendor, left off.
At the start of the Civil War, Seamus and Ashlyn return to her beloved family farm in the South, and Clare finds her calling as a voice for the North and the cause of freeing the slaves, while youngest brother Davin, who became wealthy during the Gold Rush, struggles to find his place in the world.
Seamus and Davin find themselves on different sides of the war, and the clash of loyalties and beliefs threatens to tear them apart.
I really enjoyed this book; not just the story of the main family, but also finding out what became of many of the minor characters from the first 2 books. This story also introduced to another new character, Muriel, a young woman who was working as kind of a nanny for Clare's children, and also studying to be a doctor; her story turned in a direction I never expected, and was a big part of making this story a hard one to put down once I started reading.
At the start of the Civil War, Seamus and Ashlyn return to her beloved family farm in the South, and Clare finds her calling as a voice for the North and the cause of freeing the slaves, while youngest brother Davin, who became wealthy during the Gold Rush, struggles to find his place in the world.
Seamus and Davin find themselves on different sides of the war, and the clash of loyalties and beliefs threatens to tear them apart.
I really enjoyed this book; not just the story of the main family, but also finding out what became of many of the minor characters from the first 2 books. This story also introduced to another new character, Muriel, a young woman who was working as kind of a nanny for Clare's children, and also studying to be a doctor; her story turned in a direction I never expected, and was a big part of making this story a hard one to put down once I started reading.
February 4, 2014
Masterfully crafted, Reynolds carries us through both sides of the Civil War and the overwhelming challenges the Hanley clan faces. He gracefully sweeps us through nearly a decade worth of story seamlessly without rushing us through; every detail, every heart beat is felt by the reader.
My favorite quote: "He had learned in his service as Chaplain that his most important responsibility was availability. Go did the most amazing things through him when he allowed himself to be interrupted" (218).
And the descriptions lack nothing: "She looked down on the smoldering and cadaverous rolling hills"(258) (of Gettysburg, day 3).
Thank you Michael Reynolds for another beautifully crafted story to enrich our lives and love of God, history, and family.
* I think this series should be in every Christian school classroom teaching Early American History.
My favorite quote: "He had learned in his service as Chaplain that his most important responsibility was availability. Go did the most amazing things through him when he allowed himself to be interrupted" (218).
And the descriptions lack nothing: "She looked down on the smoldering and cadaverous rolling hills"(258) (of Gettysburg, day 3).
Thank you Michael Reynolds for another beautifully crafted story to enrich our lives and love of God, history, and family.
* I think this series should be in every Christian school classroom teaching Early American History.
June 30, 2013
At the onset of the Civil War, Seamus heeds his wife’s wishes to return to her beloved family farm in the South, where he takes a post as chaplain for General Stonewall Jackson’s brigade. As Seamus ministers to the troops, his sister Clare ministers in a different way—by being a powerful voice in the Northern cause toward freeing the slaves.
All this while their youngest brother Davin, who became wealthy during the Gold Rush, struggles to find love and identity in a fallen world. It’s a clash of loyalties and beliefs that threaten the entire family, each of them trying to hear God’s encouragement in the midst of the tragedy of war. The dramatic conclusion to the acclaimed Heirs of Ireland Series.
All this while their youngest brother Davin, who became wealthy during the Gold Rush, struggles to find love and identity in a fallen world. It’s a clash of loyalties and beliefs that threaten the entire family, each of them trying to hear God’s encouragement in the midst of the tragedy of war. The dramatic conclusion to the acclaimed Heirs of Ireland Series.
April 18, 2014
I have had the pleasure of reading the first two books in this series and enjoyed this one as well. I love the Civil War time period(yes I know shocking isn’t it!) and this book proved no different. I really have to hand it to the author. How he makes you care for the characters. You really are drawn into their struggles and cannot seem to put the book down until you know what is going to happen and that everything and everyone will be okay. Which of course, everything is never really all okay, but things do turn out well in the end. I say everyone should take the time to find this series about the Hanley family and learn about them. I for one am sad to see the series end though it has been a good one.
January 11, 2015
Songs of the Shenandoah is a great addition to Heirs of Ireland series. I really love this series and I think Songs of the Shenandoah is my favorite of the 3. It is a really good look at the Irish during the American Civil War era. I am disappointed to see that this is the last book. I would love love love to continue on with the Haney family. But that's just me not wanting to let go.
5 stars.
5 stars.
September 5, 2014
"Songs of the Shenandoah" is an epic saga, deserving of the Wow! factor label. Rather than trying to say more here, please read my review at . . .
http://booksmusicandlife.blogspot.com...
http://booksmusicandlife.blogspot.com...
November 3, 2023
Since I messed up and failed to share my original review, I am featuring it again on Nov 24 at https://amomentwithmystee.blogspot.co...
"Songs of the Shenandoah" by Michael K. Reynolds is a gripping and emotionally charged tale set against the backdrop of the American Civil War. This historical fiction novel offers a captivating blend of love, courage, and resilience that explores the complex dynamics of war, family, and personal growth.
The story follows the lives of three main characters; Quaker Kate and her two brothers, Jeremiah and Jonathon. As the war unfolds, each character is faced with difficult choices and challenges that test their loyalties and beliefs. Reynolds skillfully weaves their individual narratives together, creating a rich tapestry of turmoil, sacrifice, and redemption.
One of the notable strengths of this book lies in Reynolds' ability to create vivid and realistic characters. Each character is distinct, with their own set of hopes, fears, and motivations. The author skillfully explores their inner struggles and flaws, allowing the reader to form deep connections and develop a genuine investment in their journeys.
The historical setting of the Shenandoah Valley during the Civil War is meticulously researched and beautifully rendered, immersing readers in the sights, sounds, and emotions of the time. Reynolds portrays both the horrors and the beauty of war, providing a balanced perspective that reminds us of the complexities and consequences of such conflicts.
Furthermore, the themes of faith and morality are interwoven throughout the narrative. The characters' Quaker background adds an additional layer of depth and introspection, as they grapple with their principles amidst a war that challenges their pacifist beliefs. Reynolds handles these themes with sensitivity and thoughtfulness, offering readers profound insights into the characters' spiritual journeys.
The pacing of the novel is generally well-maintained throughout, with the author expertly balancing moments of intense action with quieter reflective scenes. While there are a few instances where the narrative feels slightly slow, it does not detract significantly from the overall reading experience.
Michael K. Reynolds showcases his talent for crafting engaging and immersive storytelling. Readers who enjoy historical fiction, particularly those interested in the Civil War era, will find this book deeply satisfying. It is a tale of love, resilience, and the indomitable human spirit, leaving a lasting impression long after the final page.
"Songs of the Shenandoah" by Michael K. Reynolds is a gripping and emotionally charged tale set against the backdrop of the American Civil War. This historical fiction novel offers a captivating blend of love, courage, and resilience that explores the complex dynamics of war, family, and personal growth.
The story follows the lives of three main characters; Quaker Kate and her two brothers, Jeremiah and Jonathon. As the war unfolds, each character is faced with difficult choices and challenges that test their loyalties and beliefs. Reynolds skillfully weaves their individual narratives together, creating a rich tapestry of turmoil, sacrifice, and redemption.
One of the notable strengths of this book lies in Reynolds' ability to create vivid and realistic characters. Each character is distinct, with their own set of hopes, fears, and motivations. The author skillfully explores their inner struggles and flaws, allowing the reader to form deep connections and develop a genuine investment in their journeys.
The historical setting of the Shenandoah Valley during the Civil War is meticulously researched and beautifully rendered, immersing readers in the sights, sounds, and emotions of the time. Reynolds portrays both the horrors and the beauty of war, providing a balanced perspective that reminds us of the complexities and consequences of such conflicts.
Furthermore, the themes of faith and morality are interwoven throughout the narrative. The characters' Quaker background adds an additional layer of depth and introspection, as they grapple with their principles amidst a war that challenges their pacifist beliefs. Reynolds handles these themes with sensitivity and thoughtfulness, offering readers profound insights into the characters' spiritual journeys.
The pacing of the novel is generally well-maintained throughout, with the author expertly balancing moments of intense action with quieter reflective scenes. While there are a few instances where the narrative feels slightly slow, it does not detract significantly from the overall reading experience.
Michael K. Reynolds showcases his talent for crafting engaging and immersive storytelling. Readers who enjoy historical fiction, particularly those interested in the Civil War era, will find this book deeply satisfying. It is a tale of love, resilience, and the indomitable human spirit, leaving a lasting impression long after the final page.
July 31, 2017
Wonderful
This is one of the best series of books I have ever read. Each character touched my heart, causing me, with their strengths and weaknesses, to examine my own life and my reponses to various events in my life, and my ultimate dependence on God. I highly recommend this series.
This is one of the best series of books I have ever read. Each character touched my heart, causing me, with their strengths and weaknesses, to examine my own life and my reponses to various events in my life, and my ultimate dependence on God. I highly recommend this series.
April 22, 2025
A great ending to this series! I'm normally not a huge fan of Civil War stories - but I very much enjoyed this one. A few storylines that intertwined beautifully.
I did hope for more depth in Caitlin's story.
But overall I was definitely satisfied with this conclusion.
I did hope for more depth in Caitlin's story.
But overall I was definitely satisfied with this conclusion.
August 21, 2025
A great read for the series!
Best "Civil War" series I've read in a long long time! A fine job, Mr. Reynolds! I learned a number of new things. Thank you! I highly recommend this book. Enjoyed it all.
Best "Civil War" series I've read in a long long time! A fine job, Mr. Reynolds! I learned a number of new things. Thank you! I highly recommend this book. Enjoyed it all.
December 30, 2017
I thoroughly enjoyed all three of the books in this series. Wish there were more!
October 18, 2017
The end of a wonderful series. I enjoyed all three and wish he had written more historical fiction.
April 2, 2018
Civil War conflict
The theme seemed mostly the division of the family due to the Civil War. The religious faith of the Irish family was clear. Lots of American history included.
The theme seemed mostly the division of the family due to the Civil War. The religious faith of the Irish family was clear. Lots of American history included.
August 1, 2018
So so good!!! I liked it even better than the 2nd book. A lot of the places she wrote about had to do with the Civil War and were/are located in and around the area I used to live. So cool!
February 18, 2019
If you like Harlequin romances, you'll like this book.
August 30, 2019
Read the series!!
July 25, 2023
Started out great, fantastic story line all 3 books in series, however got to be a little too religious for my taste , sorry
July 30, 2016
The final part in the trilogy brings the Hanley siblings and their dear ones into the tumultuous time of war. What will they learn about themselves and their God?
The war (South-North civil war) is inevitable. And Hanley siblings are facing it in the different places and positions. Clare Royce Hanley and her husband Andrew are fighting for the integrity and sustainability of their newspaper in the New York. There is also Caitlin, once again heartbroken, and young Davin, who is swimming with the golden youth in the pond too big for him. Seamus Hanley with wife Ashlyn and daughter are trying their hand in farming in the Shenandoah Valley in the South. But the war doesn't wait for the human dreams and God's plans are far bigger then their wishes - and every one of the Hanleys will find themselves in much unpleasant war circumstances, just to be able to meet with their true self and to have their faith tested.
This book is the best from the series for me. Mainly because it covers all of the Hanleys and their loved ones (small exception is Caitlin Hanley, who is just a side character, but still with her own pain and happiness). The story centers the most around the young Davin and his way to real manhood, but I love that the others are not left to enter the black and white territory of no challenge. Seamus is facing the demons the most - being the reverend again, first for his fellow citizens in the Shenandoah Valley and later as the war chaplain, the one to serve the last words to the dying soldiers. And his inner strength (and also his inner questions) are remarkable.
I also started to like Andrew, Clare' s husband (till now he was too good to be believable for me, but in this novel he faces his own failures, and faces them well). I love Clare's fight for integrity, so needed in the today' s world as well!
My only complaint is the Muriel's story - I find it quite unfinished. I don't understand her motivations and I don' t see her own change of heart (just "love" is not enough, given her life choices). But I like that she is witty and intelligent, even if a bit too independent, given the time period.
This book can well combine the pure reading entertainment (the adventures are quite catchy!) with well-served food for thought and with the witty historical insight. Never I understood so much how horrible this war, this clash of ideas, was to the citizens and their individual lives. Yes, the idea was noble, but the price of blood was high as well.
Recommended read!
The war (South-North civil war) is inevitable. And Hanley siblings are facing it in the different places and positions. Clare Royce Hanley and her husband Andrew are fighting for the integrity and sustainability of their newspaper in the New York. There is also Caitlin, once again heartbroken, and young Davin, who is swimming with the golden youth in the pond too big for him. Seamus Hanley with wife Ashlyn and daughter are trying their hand in farming in the Shenandoah Valley in the South. But the war doesn't wait for the human dreams and God's plans are far bigger then their wishes - and every one of the Hanleys will find themselves in much unpleasant war circumstances, just to be able to meet with their true self and to have their faith tested.
This book is the best from the series for me. Mainly because it covers all of the Hanleys and their loved ones (small exception is Caitlin Hanley, who is just a side character, but still with her own pain and happiness). The story centers the most around the young Davin and his way to real manhood, but I love that the others are not left to enter the black and white territory of no challenge. Seamus is facing the demons the most - being the reverend again, first for his fellow citizens in the Shenandoah Valley and later as the war chaplain, the one to serve the last words to the dying soldiers. And his inner strength (and also his inner questions) are remarkable.
I also started to like Andrew, Clare' s husband (till now he was too good to be believable for me, but in this novel he faces his own failures, and faces them well). I love Clare's fight for integrity, so needed in the today' s world as well!
My only complaint is the Muriel's story - I find it quite unfinished. I don't understand her motivations and I don' t see her own change of heart (just "love" is not enough, given her life choices). But I like that she is witty and intelligent, even if a bit too independent, given the time period.
This book can well combine the pure reading entertainment (the adventures are quite catchy!) with well-served food for thought and with the witty historical insight. Never I understood so much how horrible this war, this clash of ideas, was to the citizens and their individual lives. Yes, the idea was noble, but the price of blood was high as well.
Recommended read!
January 28, 2014
Today (and by “today,” I mean veeery early this morning), I finished reading Songs of Shenandoah, the last installment of the Heirs of Ireland Trilogy by Michael K. Reynolds. I read straight through from about page 200 to page 428 just last night and the entire book in less than a week. Yes, it was that phenomenal!
I regret to say, I have not yet read Flight of the Earls, the first installment *adds to my 2014 reading list* but I have read In Golden Splendor (#2) and from that I can say that Songs of Shenandoah makes a graceful transition and I was happily surprised by the ending.
Being a black woman with Irish roots, this book holds particular meaning to me. Set during the Civil War, skipping largely between New York and Virginia, we see a stark picture of our nation’s history that they don’t teach you in school: our nation tearing apart at the seams. North against South. Northerner against Northerner. Southerner against Southerner. What Reynolds touches on regarding the unrest between races in Golden Splendor, he completes in Songs of Shenandoah. For a woman whose black paternal grandfather met her Irish paternal grandmother in New York, it’s painful to watch the terrible dissention between the two peoples unfold in Songs. Yet as is so often true, we see the root of all evil: money.
Money drives the Southern stakes in slave-owning enterprises. Money causes the Southern cotton to find its way up North for industrialization. Money causes the Irish to hate the blacks they credit with stealing their jobs and causing their unwarranted deaths. Yes money makes the maddened world go ‘round.
Friend against friend. Brother against brother. This novel covers the ugliness that is war with a simple beauty that only Michael K. Reynolds possesses. It ends seamlessly and makes me wonder not only what is next for the Hanley Clan that fills this series, but what is next for Michael K. Reynolds. A job well done sir, a job well done!
I regret to say, I have not yet read Flight of the Earls, the first installment *adds to my 2014 reading list* but I have read In Golden Splendor (#2) and from that I can say that Songs of Shenandoah makes a graceful transition and I was happily surprised by the ending.
Being a black woman with Irish roots, this book holds particular meaning to me. Set during the Civil War, skipping largely between New York and Virginia, we see a stark picture of our nation’s history that they don’t teach you in school: our nation tearing apart at the seams. North against South. Northerner against Northerner. Southerner against Southerner. What Reynolds touches on regarding the unrest between races in Golden Splendor, he completes in Songs of Shenandoah. For a woman whose black paternal grandfather met her Irish paternal grandmother in New York, it’s painful to watch the terrible dissention between the two peoples unfold in Songs. Yet as is so often true, we see the root of all evil: money.
Money drives the Southern stakes in slave-owning enterprises. Money causes the Southern cotton to find its way up North for industrialization. Money causes the Irish to hate the blacks they credit with stealing their jobs and causing their unwarranted deaths. Yes money makes the maddened world go ‘round.
Friend against friend. Brother against brother. This novel covers the ugliness that is war with a simple beauty that only Michael K. Reynolds possesses. It ends seamlessly and makes me wonder not only what is next for the Hanley Clan that fills this series, but what is next for Michael K. Reynolds. A job well done sir, a job well done!
March 26, 2015
Characters: The characters are what truly make this novel sing. Through the previous books, we meet the Hanley family. In this novel, there is a strong focus on three of the siblings, Clare, Seamus, and Davin. Each are striving to find their own purpose in a country that is being torn apart by war. Clare finds herself being the support her husband needs as well as being a strong voice to the oppressed in New York City. Seamus has left the ministry only to find a new purpose in the Shenandoah Valley and the Confederacy. Davin is searching for redemption.
Storyline: This novel certainly visits some aspects of the war that I don't think we often read in fiction or hear about in general. During the actual war, there are focuses on the Irish brigades while in New York City there are scenes demonstrating the social tensions that the North was feeling during the war. Throughout these historical moments, a thread of faith is woven through. Some characters lean on it while others are discovering it.
My Thoughts: Out of the series of these three books, this one was probably my favorite. There were so many unexpected moments in the story. Like the previous two, this one was just as beautifully written and just as poignant. Through the scenes of war hopelessness there is an element of faith and hope that shines. It is something for both characters and readers to grab a hold of.
I would recommend reading the first two novels, Flight of the Earls and In Golden Splendor, prior to reading this one. It will help with knowing who characters are and some of their backgrounds. However, most of the plot of this story could be read as a standalone novel.
**I received a copy of this book from B&H Publishers in exchange for my honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.**
Storyline: This novel certainly visits some aspects of the war that I don't think we often read in fiction or hear about in general. During the actual war, there are focuses on the Irish brigades while in New York City there are scenes demonstrating the social tensions that the North was feeling during the war. Throughout these historical moments, a thread of faith is woven through. Some characters lean on it while others are discovering it.
My Thoughts: Out of the series of these three books, this one was probably my favorite. There were so many unexpected moments in the story. Like the previous two, this one was just as beautifully written and just as poignant. Through the scenes of war hopelessness there is an element of faith and hope that shines. It is something for both characters and readers to grab a hold of.
I would recommend reading the first two novels, Flight of the Earls and In Golden Splendor, prior to reading this one. It will help with knowing who characters are and some of their backgrounds. However, most of the plot of this story could be read as a standalone novel.
**I received a copy of this book from B&H Publishers in exchange for my honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.**
January 7, 2014
Any book that has Irishman and the Civil War in it I am bound to enjoy. This book made me want to go back and re-read another book with those two components, Gone With the Wind.
Songs of Shenandoah is a beautiful epic tale. The last book in the Heirs of Ireland series will make you sad to say good-bye to these beloved characters.
I only read the last two books and I did not feel lost at all. I think you could even read this book alone and still fully understand the story.
This book has everything a great story needs. Strong characters who you will love, a tense plot that will have you gripping the pages at times, romance and a bit of mystery too. What more could you ask for?
My favorite story line was that of Davin and Muriel. I really liked both of these characters and kept hoping for Davin to come to know and trust God. But, you'll just have to read the book yourself to see if that happens :)
A copy of this book was given to me by the publisher through the Christian Fiction Blog Alliance in exchange for an honest review.
Songs of Shenandoah is a beautiful epic tale. The last book in the Heirs of Ireland series will make you sad to say good-bye to these beloved characters.
I only read the last two books and I did not feel lost at all. I think you could even read this book alone and still fully understand the story.
This book has everything a great story needs. Strong characters who you will love, a tense plot that will have you gripping the pages at times, romance and a bit of mystery too. What more could you ask for?
My favorite story line was that of Davin and Muriel. I really liked both of these characters and kept hoping for Davin to come to know and trust God. But, you'll just have to read the book yourself to see if that happens :)
A copy of this book was given to me by the publisher through the Christian Fiction Blog Alliance in exchange for an honest review.
January 15, 2017
Probably closer to a 3.5 star rating, this book gave the reader an excellent feel for what life was like during the Civil War for both poor and rich immigrants from Ireland. Running a daily newspaper during wartime seemed fascinating, and it was interesting to see the effect finding gold could have on a person. The conclusion surprised me somewhat. I was expecting something different to happen in the life of one character, but the happy ending didn't materialize for her. The story held my interest for the most part, and I enjoyed being surprised by changes in some of the characters. Christian Historical fiction fans will enjoy it, but I felt it lacked a little something for me. Perhaps I wasn't involved enough with some of the characters because I didn't read the first two books. I would like to go back and read the first one, and perhaps the second also.
March 28, 2014
Songs of the Shenandoah was a beautiful and adventurous tale. The descriptions are so wonderful, I could picture the sweeping vistas just as if I were watching a movie. Though Reynolds wove a tender romance through the pages, the love story that caught my heart was the love between the siblings, particularly the brothers Davin and Seamus. I had to go in search of tissues a few times while reading, because by the mid-point I felt like part of the family. I've enjoyed each of the three books making up the Heirs of Ireland series, but Songs of the Shenandoah was the best of the bunch.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book for free from B&H Fiction for the purpose of review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book for free from B&H Fiction for the purpose of review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.
January 22, 2014
In wrapping up this saga of the Handley family, author Michael K. Reynolds does an excellent job of tying up loose ends and successfully bringing the characters’ stories to a satisfying ending. The research that has gone into this series is immense and Reynolds presents it in a way that keeps the reader entertained while they are being educated. His cast of characters are fascinating, and Reynolds lends their voices to epic moments of history with much flair and respect.
I highly recommend “Songs of the Shenandoah” as well as the previous novels, “Flight of The Earls” and “In Golden Splendor” to those readers who enjoy historical fiction filled with lots of action and personable characters.
I highly recommend “Songs of the Shenandoah” as well as the previous novels, “Flight of The Earls” and “In Golden Splendor” to those readers who enjoy historical fiction filled with lots of action and personable characters.
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