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The Tour #4
The Homecoming of Bubbles O'Leary
A luxury stay in an Irish castle, a handsome, experienced tour guide, and a secret that has never been revealed.
Life as manager of the magnificent resort of Castle Dysert on Ireland’s wild Atlantic coast is never dull, and Conor O’Shea’s life to date has taught him to be prepared for the unexpected.
Even he however, is not ready for the gang from Bubbles O’Leary’s bar in New York. A motley crew, from spinster sisters of a certain age, to exhausted social workers, they are all in Ireland for one reason.
The fact that this bunch of unusual people arrive during Ireland’s biggest matchmaking festival just adds to the intrigue. But is everyone who they say they are? Are all their motives pure?
Conor is ready to do his best to show the visitors his beloved Ireland, but his personal life takes a devastating turn and he finds himself torn, unsure how to proceed. Is the past best left there, or is there redemption to be found in opening old wounds?
Wise and witty, heart-warming and deeply satisfying, Jean Grainger takes us once more on an unforgettable trip to the Emerald Isle.
The Homecoming of Bubbles O’Leary is the fourth book in The Tour Series.
314 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 1, 2021
2424 people are currently reading
446 people want to read
About the author
Jean Grainger
88 books1,582 followersJean Grainger was born in Cork, Ireland. She has been a tour guide of her beloved home country, a teacher, a university lecturer and a playwright. She began writing fiction at the suggestion of her clients on tours, many of whom were sure all the stories she told them would make for a great book. Her first book, The Tour, has become a Number 1 bestseller on Amazon. It tells the story of a disparate group of American visitors to Ireland, who, along with their Irish tour guide have a life changing experience in the magical Emerald Isle.
Her second book, So Much Owed, is a family saga set during the Second World War. The story centres on the Buckley family of West Cork and how their lives are pulled in different directions as they become embroiled in the war. It is a sweeping family saga of intrigue and romance against the background of occupied Europe.
In her third novel, Shadow of a Century, she tells a tale of a battered old flag found in New York in 2016, a century after it was used during the Easter Rising, when Ireland made her final bid for freedom from Great Britain. This tells the story of a journalist who uncovers a story, one with much more to it than a flag.
Her fourth novel, due out in Spring 2016, Under Heaven’s Shining Stars, is set in the 1970s in Cork, Ireland and is a novel about friendship. Three boys, Liam, Patrick and Hugo, though from very different backgrounds are united in a deep but often times challenging friendship. As their lives progress, only by staying strong, can they prevail. Or fail.
Her novella, Letters of Freedom, tells the story of Carmel, stuck in a pointless marriage, when a figure from her past emerges and changes everything with a ‘like’ on Facebook. This quick read will touch your heart.
She lives in Cork with her husband and her two youngest children. The older two come home occasionally with laundry and to raid the fridge.
Her second book, So Much Owed, is a family saga set during the Second World War. The story centres on the Buckley family of West Cork and how their lives are pulled in different directions as they become embroiled in the war. It is a sweeping family saga of intrigue and romance against the background of occupied Europe.
In her third novel, Shadow of a Century, she tells a tale of a battered old flag found in New York in 2016, a century after it was used during the Easter Rising, when Ireland made her final bid for freedom from Great Britain. This tells the story of a journalist who uncovers a story, one with much more to it than a flag.
Her fourth novel, due out in Spring 2016, Under Heaven’s Shining Stars, is set in the 1970s in Cork, Ireland and is a novel about friendship. Three boys, Liam, Patrick and Hugo, though from very different backgrounds are united in a deep but often times challenging friendship. As their lives progress, only by staying strong, can they prevail. Or fail.
Her novella, Letters of Freedom, tells the story of Carmel, stuck in a pointless marriage, when a figure from her past emerges and changes everything with a ‘like’ on Facebook. This quick read will touch your heart.
She lives in Cork with her husband and her two youngest children. The older two come home occasionally with laundry and to raid the fridge.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 239 reviews
June 26, 2019
A Sweet Story
Bubbles homecoming is charming in its impossibility. A couple in their 50s fall in love for the first time, and there is a happy ending. A divorced father and his daughter find the perfect new family member. An alien resident in the U.S. inherits a handsome sum of money from Bubbles, and he goes home to his family. That's just a few relationship miracles. The kind of miracles that soothe aching hearts and wounded souls. This is a gentle, spirit-lifting story with the mingling of familiar characters and interesting new ones. Do check out what our Irish family is up to.
Bubbles homecoming is charming in its impossibility. A couple in their 50s fall in love for the first time, and there is a happy ending. A divorced father and his daughter find the perfect new family member. An alien resident in the U.S. inherits a handsome sum of money from Bubbles, and he goes home to his family. That's just a few relationship miracles. The kind of miracles that soothe aching hearts and wounded souls. This is a gentle, spirit-lifting story with the mingling of familiar characters and interesting new ones. Do check out what our Irish family is up to.
January 31, 2020
I just love this series. A really lite fun read with memorable characters.
December 26, 2018
The Homecoming of Bubbles O'Leary #4 - A terrible person ruins the life of a good person, but .... I absolutely enjoy The Tour Series and this is probably now my favorite of the four books. There are a lot of storylines going on, naturally - Ms. Grainger wrote it, that just kept me glued to the pages. Our favorite characters are still there just as realistic and likable as always.
The variety of characters that Bubbles attracted to himself with his big heart and wise ways ran the gamut of different personalities and quirkiness, and the range of emotions gave such depth to the story. While there are a lot of good things happening, there are also the bad. There are plenty of heartbreaks and joys, but the journeys everyone made through the good and bad, as well as their discoveries kept me immersed totally. Of course, Ms. Grainger has a talent for vivid descriptions and I felt as if I was there, too. I contacted the author to review her books. 5*
The Tour #1 - I never get tired of reading Ms. Grainger's books. This is another well written, heartwarming, funny, entertaining, intriguing story. The characters are realistic and run the gamut of personalities. Funny and sad and heartbreaking and uplifting things happen along the route, but the reader never wants to stop reading. The vivid descriptions of Ireland and its culture and its people and the scenery, including buildings, keep the reader immersed in the pages. 5*
Safe at the Edge of the World #2 - What, this is a lot about a couple of Americans. But as I kept reading I forgot that I wanted to read more about Ireland. We still have all our favorite characters from The Tour and the two Americans find safety with the fellow tourists and the crew. Help comes from everywhere and this intense, intriguing story with its surprises is an exceptional book on its own. It was similar to works by Mario Puzo; substantial, heartwarming, heart wrenching and entertaining. Ms. Grainger is very talented in her craft. 5*
The Story of Grenville King #3 - What an amazing collection of stories. No, it's one book but the intertwining stories of the many characters make this a rich, fulfilling, twisting, intriguing story. The characters are well developed, interesting and so real. The dialog is better than average. The plot goes on and on with new happenings, twists and turns. The emotions run the gamut: love, happiness, fear, sadness, hate and more.
This is the first book I've read of the Tour series and I didn't miss anything not having read the previous books. I've read several stories by this author and never have I been disappointed. This book is amazing, substantial and hard to put down. My review doesn’t do justice to this story. I’m glad I contacted the author to review her books. 5*
The variety of characters that Bubbles attracted to himself with his big heart and wise ways ran the gamut of different personalities and quirkiness, and the range of emotions gave such depth to the story. While there are a lot of good things happening, there are also the bad. There are plenty of heartbreaks and joys, but the journeys everyone made through the good and bad, as well as their discoveries kept me immersed totally. Of course, Ms. Grainger has a talent for vivid descriptions and I felt as if I was there, too. I contacted the author to review her books. 5*
The Tour #1 - I never get tired of reading Ms. Grainger's books. This is another well written, heartwarming, funny, entertaining, intriguing story. The characters are realistic and run the gamut of personalities. Funny and sad and heartbreaking and uplifting things happen along the route, but the reader never wants to stop reading. The vivid descriptions of Ireland and its culture and its people and the scenery, including buildings, keep the reader immersed in the pages. 5*
Safe at the Edge of the World #2 - What, this is a lot about a couple of Americans. But as I kept reading I forgot that I wanted to read more about Ireland. We still have all our favorite characters from The Tour and the two Americans find safety with the fellow tourists and the crew. Help comes from everywhere and this intense, intriguing story with its surprises is an exceptional book on its own. It was similar to works by Mario Puzo; substantial, heartwarming, heart wrenching and entertaining. Ms. Grainger is very talented in her craft. 5*
The Story of Grenville King #3 - What an amazing collection of stories. No, it's one book but the intertwining stories of the many characters make this a rich, fulfilling, twisting, intriguing story. The characters are well developed, interesting and so real. The dialog is better than average. The plot goes on and on with new happenings, twists and turns. The emotions run the gamut: love, happiness, fear, sadness, hate and more.
This is the first book I've read of the Tour series and I didn't miss anything not having read the previous books. I've read several stories by this author and never have I been disappointed. This book is amazing, substantial and hard to put down. My review doesn’t do justice to this story. I’m glad I contacted the author to review her books. 5*
July 28, 2021
Every time I finish one of Jean Graingers novels I consider it one of the best entertaining novels I have ever read and then I read the next one and it's the best! When I first started the "Tour" series I thought it was just 1 of 3. I normally don't even care to start a series if it's more than that because they usually stop being interesting after the 2nd book but Jeans books just get better and better. I have just downloaded the 5th but I am waiting a couple of days to "savor" #4. I laughed and cried many times while reading "Bubbles" his story and then the stories of each person who accompanies his ashes to Ireland is so touching and poignant. I loved each and every character; Manuel the homeless illegal who Bubbles takes into his cares, gives him a job and a place to live, The two sisters Erin and Shannon who are afraid of the world, who can barely function outside of their home and their jobs and are terrified of losing each other, Bubbles befriends them and introduces them to the Irish Cultural Center and his bar even thought they are committed teetotalers. Beth and her sister Maddie who cling to one another because of their unhappy childhood and the lovelessness from their mother. When disaster strikes Maddie, the group circle Maddie giving her the support she needs. Kevin, the Social Worker who works so hard to help others through his work is still traumatized by the divorce from his first wife, he longs for a normal life where he can finally have a marriage of give and take and make a good home for his precocious, adorable 8 year old daughter. There is a socially backward genius who rarely speaks named Jimmy who finds a person in Ireland he never thought would exist who's love story brought Jimmy to his knees and which I cried all the way through chapter 41. The other characters Beth and Marianne have their own stories to tell and a few surprises too, not to mention Will, the man with a surprising past. When Bubbles drops dead on evening in his bar with all his friends around him, they are all bereft and decide they need to honor their dear friend. Kevin, organizes a trip to Ireland to look for a place to scatter Bubbles ashes in his former homeland. This story takes us to Castle Dysert once and again and we meet a lot of our old friends from the past 3 books. Jane Grainger is a master at weaving the past and present along with the people involved into her highly readable books. I have been to Ireland a couple of times and always enjoyed myself, it's such a beautiful place but I do wish I had read some of Jeans books first, the history she gives of the sites through my favorite character Conner; Tour driver and now partner in the famous and fabulous Hotel Dysert is wonderful, I just have to go back again!
January 11, 2019
The Homecoming of Bubbles O’Leary is a novel of Ireland by Jean Grainger. As usual, her book is set in Ireland and she gives brilliant descriptions of various places in Ireland. Those descriptions take me back to the time I visited Ireland with a friend. We drove a circle of southern Ireland from Dublin to Galway and back to Dublin. We had a marvelous time and ran into such wonderful people. Everyone we met was so friendly and went out of their way to help us when we needed help. This trait of the Irish comes through in Jean’s books, along with many more.
Bubbles O’Leary had died of a heart attack as he was singing that night. Bubbles always managed to turn Friday nights into a party for his friends. He was always there for him and they appreciated him and were there for him. This time, they could do nothing to help him. Only Miguel knew of Bubble’s past and he wouldn’t let anyone else have that information. The small elite group of friends decided that they would like to have a special memorial for Bubbles. They would have him cremated and take him back to Ireland. Kevin Wilson made the reservations and insisted on having Conor O’Shea as their guide. Normally, Conor no longer did tours; but since they were recommended by someone who was on an earlier tour. He made reservations in the luxury hotel, Castle Dysert that he owned and ran. Conor had decided to change his tour and make the Castle the base and do day trips from there. This was so he could be home nights with his wife. Anna was going through chemo and needed him home for her and for their twin boys.
Kevin Wilson and his young daughter, Tess; Shannon and Erin Glavin, elderly sisters whose deceased parents had been from Ireland, Marianne Peterson, who was running from the rumors about her ex-husband’s being transgender and dropping her; Beth Anderson, a doctor from the nearby hospital, Annie de Lancey, frequent visitor to Bubbles for guidance; Will Munro, a recent addition to the group ; Jimmy Burns, a recluse who read books and who was socially inept; and Miguel Sanchez who worked at the bar and was in love with Bubbles made up the group who headed for Ireland.
What adventures could they possibly get into while they were in Ireland for ten days? This book is fantastically written. I could easily have sat and read it through in one visit; however, I made sure to take breaks as I read it so it would last longer. This book as her other books, are wonderfully written. I highly recommend this book.
Bubbles O’Leary had died of a heart attack as he was singing that night. Bubbles always managed to turn Friday nights into a party for his friends. He was always there for him and they appreciated him and were there for him. This time, they could do nothing to help him. Only Miguel knew of Bubble’s past and he wouldn’t let anyone else have that information. The small elite group of friends decided that they would like to have a special memorial for Bubbles. They would have him cremated and take him back to Ireland. Kevin Wilson made the reservations and insisted on having Conor O’Shea as their guide. Normally, Conor no longer did tours; but since they were recommended by someone who was on an earlier tour. He made reservations in the luxury hotel, Castle Dysert that he owned and ran. Conor had decided to change his tour and make the Castle the base and do day trips from there. This was so he could be home nights with his wife. Anna was going through chemo and needed him home for her and for their twin boys.
Kevin Wilson and his young daughter, Tess; Shannon and Erin Glavin, elderly sisters whose deceased parents had been from Ireland, Marianne Peterson, who was running from the rumors about her ex-husband’s being transgender and dropping her; Beth Anderson, a doctor from the nearby hospital, Annie de Lancey, frequent visitor to Bubbles for guidance; Will Munro, a recent addition to the group ; Jimmy Burns, a recluse who read books and who was socially inept; and Miguel Sanchez who worked at the bar and was in love with Bubbles made up the group who headed for Ireland.
What adventures could they possibly get into while they were in Ireland for ten days? This book is fantastically written. I could easily have sat and read it through in one visit; however, I made sure to take breaks as I read it so it would last longer. This book as her other books, are wonderfully written. I highly recommend this book.
January 5, 2019
The well-plotted saga begins to lay out a deeply entwined narrative of the individuals who undertake to return Bubbles O'Leary home to Ireland, just when protagonist Conor is dealing with crushing family drama at home, but it is he who they must have to lead their memorial group. Each support character has his/her own story and is well developed and engaging, which contributes to the tours they take from the Castle, enjoying the local sights.
There is an underlying sinister current that manifests later in the book that adds a mystery to what is an accounting of confronting serious illness, estrangements, lost and new loves, and forgiveness. There is humor, the yarn flows easily, the prose beautiful, and the action realistic.
I've read most of the books Ms. Grainger has published and I must say each has been totally engrossing, engaging, and enlightening. The author delights the reader whether or not with remote Irish origins in her generous descriptions of the land, the origins, food, ancient artifacts, and sayings. Easy explanations and helpful pronunciations eliminate any off-putting of local colloquialisms and customs and adds to the enjoyment of the story.
I was allowed early ebook download of this novel by the author and greatly appreciated (as always!) the opportunity to read and review. Recommended to any who enjoy a thoroughly entertaining and emotional literary fiction novel. 4.5/5 stars
See my full review at https://rosepointpublishing.com/2019/...
There is an underlying sinister current that manifests later in the book that adds a mystery to what is an accounting of confronting serious illness, estrangements, lost and new loves, and forgiveness. There is humor, the yarn flows easily, the prose beautiful, and the action realistic.
I've read most of the books Ms. Grainger has published and I must say each has been totally engrossing, engaging, and enlightening. The author delights the reader whether or not with remote Irish origins in her generous descriptions of the land, the origins, food, ancient artifacts, and sayings. Easy explanations and helpful pronunciations eliminate any off-putting of local colloquialisms and customs and adds to the enjoyment of the story.
I was allowed early ebook download of this novel by the author and greatly appreciated (as always!) the opportunity to read and review. Recommended to any who enjoy a thoroughly entertaining and emotional literary fiction novel. 4.5/5 stars
See my full review at https://rosepointpublishing.com/2019/...
May 26, 2020
Book Four in The Tour Series:
"A luxury stay in an Irish castle, a handsome, experienced tour guide, and a secret that has never been revealed.
Life as manager of the magnificent resort of Castle Dysert on Ireland’s wild Atlantic coast is never dull, and Conor O’Shea’s life to date has taught him to be prepared for the unexpected.
Even he however, is not ready for the gang from Bubbles O’Leary’s bar in New York. A motley crew, from spinster sisters of a certain age, to exhausted social workers, they are all in Ireland for one reason.
The fact that this bunch of unusual people arrive during Ireland’s biggest matchmaking festival just adds to the intrigue. But is everyone who they say they are? Are all their motives pure?
Conor is ready to do his best to show the visitors his beloved Ireland, but his personal life takes a devastating turn and he finds himself torn, unsure how to proceed. Is the past best left there, or is there redemption to be found in opening old wounds?
Wise and witty, heart-warming and deeply satisfying, Jean Grainger takes us once more on an unforgettable trip to the Emerald Isle." synopsis copied
Thoroughly enjoyed this story, full of interesting characters, both old and new.
"A luxury stay in an Irish castle, a handsome, experienced tour guide, and a secret that has never been revealed.
Life as manager of the magnificent resort of Castle Dysert on Ireland’s wild Atlantic coast is never dull, and Conor O’Shea’s life to date has taught him to be prepared for the unexpected.
Even he however, is not ready for the gang from Bubbles O’Leary’s bar in New York. A motley crew, from spinster sisters of a certain age, to exhausted social workers, they are all in Ireland for one reason.
The fact that this bunch of unusual people arrive during Ireland’s biggest matchmaking festival just adds to the intrigue. But is everyone who they say they are? Are all their motives pure?
Conor is ready to do his best to show the visitors his beloved Ireland, but his personal life takes a devastating turn and he finds himself torn, unsure how to proceed. Is the past best left there, or is there redemption to be found in opening old wounds?
Wise and witty, heart-warming and deeply satisfying, Jean Grainger takes us once more on an unforgettable trip to the Emerald Isle." synopsis copied
Thoroughly enjoyed this story, full of interesting characters, both old and new.
May 12, 2024
Another enjoyable installment of the Connor O'Shea series.
This book, however, focuses more on the trials and tribulations of a new group of characters (being a group of 'associates, not quite friends' who have come to Ireland to spread the ashes of a recently deceased mutual friend), along with the promotion of some 'minor characters' to be part of the 'main cast' this time round.
The group offers a number of interesting little sub-plots to capture interest, but not so many you end up confused. We also see more insight into Connor's life as he deals subsequently with the reappearance of estranged family members and some devastating information he receives about his wife, Anna, that will impact his whole family.
I listened to the Audible Audio version of this book and found the narrator suited to the story. I did struggle a little in the last book with the change of narrators from Patrick Moy to Siobhan Waring, but now that I am used to it being read in a female voice, it was barely more than a passing thought this time round.
Am I glad I read it - yes
Was it a waste of my time - no
Would I sit down and read it all over again - yes
Would I read more by this author based on this book - definitely, can't wait for Book 5 to be released in Audio
This book, however, focuses more on the trials and tribulations of a new group of characters (being a group of 'associates, not quite friends' who have come to Ireland to spread the ashes of a recently deceased mutual friend), along with the promotion of some 'minor characters' to be part of the 'main cast' this time round.
The group offers a number of interesting little sub-plots to capture interest, but not so many you end up confused. We also see more insight into Connor's life as he deals subsequently with the reappearance of estranged family members and some devastating information he receives about his wife, Anna, that will impact his whole family.
I listened to the Audible Audio version of this book and found the narrator suited to the story. I did struggle a little in the last book with the change of narrators from Patrick Moy to Siobhan Waring, but now that I am used to it being read in a female voice, it was barely more than a passing thought this time round.
Am I glad I read it - yes
Was it a waste of my time - no
Would I sit down and read it all over again - yes
Would I read more by this author based on this book - definitely, can't wait for Book 5 to be released in Audio
January 6, 2019
Simply, beautiful!
I just finished reading the 4th in the (Conor O'Shea) Tour Series book, and I marvel at how Author Jean Grainger manages to make each book in the series even better than the last! And, as I, absolutely, loved the first book, thinking, surely, a second book couldn't outdo the first..and, then, coming to the realization that, yes, it can..I know, now, to expect superlative writing, no matter which book in the series it is that I might be reading.
And, as I can't, possibly, put into words just how good any component of Grainger's writing is, I won't even try, but I can tell you that if you want to read good, no, excellent, fun, truly enjoyable, fiction, then pick up a copy of this book.
I know that all Conor O'Shea series readers will love this book (and, that most of Author Grainger's fans of this series have, probably, already purchased the book), but if for some reason you haven't picked up a copy of this book, yet, do yourself a favor and buy it...and that goes for those of you who haven't yet discovered Conor O'Shea, et al, but may be considering buying this book, after seeing this, and/or other, review(s).
I just finished reading the 4th in the (Conor O'Shea) Tour Series book, and I marvel at how Author Jean Grainger manages to make each book in the series even better than the last! And, as I, absolutely, loved the first book, thinking, surely, a second book couldn't outdo the first..and, then, coming to the realization that, yes, it can..I know, now, to expect superlative writing, no matter which book in the series it is that I might be reading.
And, as I can't, possibly, put into words just how good any component of Grainger's writing is, I won't even try, but I can tell you that if you want to read good, no, excellent, fun, truly enjoyable, fiction, then pick up a copy of this book.
I know that all Conor O'Shea series readers will love this book (and, that most of Author Grainger's fans of this series have, probably, already purchased the book), but if for some reason you haven't picked up a copy of this book, yet, do yourself a favor and buy it...and that goes for those of you who haven't yet discovered Conor O'Shea, et al, but may be considering buying this book, after seeing this, and/or other, review(s).
August 26, 2025
I really liked this book, Book 4 in the "The Tour" series. Bubbles O'Leary owned a bar in New York. He made it his goal to make everyone feel welcome, and the bar became a meeting place of a group that might be described as "misfits" - two maidenly sisters who were shy and had never been anywhere, a nurse and her somewhat wild younger sister, a sanitation worker with a PhD, and several others. His manager, Manuel, was undocumented, from Puerto Rico. One night, Bubbles died at the bar, in front of everyone. They were distraught! They decided to travel as a group to Ireland, Bubbles' country of birth, and scatter his ashes. This book is about the trip, which is guided by Conor, our dear former tour guide and present co-owner of Castle Dysert resort. Conor really doesn't want to guide the group at first as that is not his job anymore, but he agrees as long as the tour is day trips and the group stays at his hotel. The stories of each of the travelers, Bubbles, and Conor's family, as Ana, Conor's wife, is struggling with a cancer diagnosis and treatment are intriguing and delightful. People from Conor's past appear in this volume too. On to volume 5!
March 23, 2024
This is the 4th book in The Tour Series that takes place in Ireland. Sweet story of a group of New Yorkers that travel together to Ireland and stay at Castle Dysert. Conor from the other three books runs the hotel and stopped being a tour guide but this group insisted on having him be their guide. They came to Ireland to bring the ashes of their friend Bubbles O’Leary after he passed away. Bubbles was born in Ireland but moved to NY and ran a bar which is where they all met. He was kind and funny and a great storyteller and they all had stories of how he impacted their lives.
Lots of side stories about the travelers, all interesting and made for a quick read.
With some book series, the more stories there are, I he less interesting they get, but I liked this as much or maybe even more than the first few.
Light easy read and love the Irish culture that is weaved in!
Lots of side stories about the travelers, all interesting and made for a quick read.
With some book series, the more stories there are, I he less interesting they get, but I liked this as much or maybe even more than the first few.
Light easy read and love the Irish culture that is weaved in!
September 6, 2024
Conor O'Shea reluctantly agrees to take a group of Americans on tour, but only because they use his castle as a home base and go on day trips, leaving Conor free to care for his wife Anna who has been diagnosed with breast cancer. The group of Americans come to Ireland to scatter the ashes of their friend Bubbles O'Leary who owned a bar in New York City and had a gift for helping lonely people find a sense of belonging at his establishment.
This novel celebrates the people who create families for themselves when choice or circumstance take them away from their biological kin. It is a testament to the power of kindness, compassion, and acceptance, revealing the fragility at the core of every human being. By turns funny, tender, and heart-breaking, it is one of the strongest entries in a thoroughly enjoyable series.
This novel celebrates the people who create families for themselves when choice or circumstance take them away from their biological kin. It is a testament to the power of kindness, compassion, and acceptance, revealing the fragility at the core of every human being. By turns funny, tender, and heart-breaking, it is one of the strongest entries in a thoroughly enjoyable series.
July 1, 2020
Very emotional but satisfying
This one has a group from the U.S. coming to Ireland to bring home the ashes of their special friend Bubbles O'Leary. Connor is asked to be their tour guide by a friend of Ellen's, from the first book. This one does deal with the death of two people. One who has had a powerful, positive influence on many people's lives. One who has wasted his life but finds forgiveness and reconciliation at the end. Connor is not the main story plot but is involved enough with his own crisis to make me happy. The friends of Bubbles are a very unique and interesting group. Many lives are changed by the trip, including Katherine's, Conor's right hand woman at the castle.
This one has a group from the U.S. coming to Ireland to bring home the ashes of their special friend Bubbles O'Leary. Connor is asked to be their tour guide by a friend of Ellen's, from the first book. This one does deal with the death of two people. One who has had a powerful, positive influence on many people's lives. One who has wasted his life but finds forgiveness and reconciliation at the end. Connor is not the main story plot but is involved enough with his own crisis to make me happy. The friends of Bubbles are a very unique and interesting group. Many lives are changed by the trip, including Katherine's, Conor's right hand woman at the castle.
January 10, 2019
The Homecoming of Bubbles O`Leary is the 4th book of the Connor O`Shea series. A group of individuals, who meet regularly at a New York bar find themselves together on a tour in Ireland. They all have their personalities, secrets and fears. But all they have in common is their love for the friendly and kind Bubbles O'Leary, the bar owner. His death bring the group to Ireland, even if they stay at the most luxurious hotel in Ireland it is far from peaceful. They find out that they do not really know each other and in some cases know themselves very well. It is the BEST of the series, tons of action, romance, suspense that kept me reading way pass bedtime.
January 20, 2019
The Homecoming of Bubbles O'Leary is a wonderful addition to The Tour series featuring Conor O'Shea. It is also a perfect stand-alone book. It was a delight to spend time back in Ireland at the Castle Dysart with Conor, his family and a host of familiar characters. Discover the story of Bubbles for yourself, you will not be disappointed. Jean Grainger has a talent for weaving multiple storylines together and creating a charming, interesting and entertaining book that you will not want to put down. Her descriptions of people, places and events are second to none and it is always a pleasure to read her books. I loved this book and thoroughly recommend it.
April 16, 2025
Bubbles of kindness and love bursting throughout this Irish story
These characters in Jean Grainger’s head that ended up on a page entered my life as real people. How can that happen. I feel like if I traveled over the Atlantic to Ireland, I’d need to look them up and say hello. But I know these same characteristics in real life and in real people who have crossed my path through life. That’s why reading this book had me revisiting those memories made with interesting people along my own lifetimes. Kidnapper was the exception. I’ve never known one and no murders I know of but I have know some rascals.
These characters in Jean Grainger’s head that ended up on a page entered my life as real people. How can that happen. I feel like if I traveled over the Atlantic to Ireland, I’d need to look them up and say hello. But I know these same characteristics in real life and in real people who have crossed my path through life. That’s why reading this book had me revisiting those memories made with interesting people along my own lifetimes. Kidnapper was the exception. I’ve never known one and no murders I know of but I have know some rascals.
December 26, 2018
Another winner by Jean Grainger!!! Jean's stories are about real to life characters who experience all the trials and tribulations that we all do. The story feels so real and the characters are so well developed that you feel as though you could stop by to see them on your next trip to Ireland.
This book tells of new love, soul satisfying married love, love of a dear friend and best of all, the faith in a loving God. There is some mystery, some pain and bouts of healing laughter.
Jean Grainger has become one of the authors I automatically pre-order without reading the blurb.
This book tells of new love, soul satisfying married love, love of a dear friend and best of all, the faith in a loving God. There is some mystery, some pain and bouts of healing laughter.
Jean Grainger has become one of the authors I automatically pre-order without reading the blurb.
April 28, 2019
Time for Book 5, Jean!
I have now read all 4 books in this series, and feel like I know each and every character personally. Another reader said she felt "content" after reading this series, and I couldn't agree more. The characters are very "relatable," the storylines (of which there are several in each book) are well thought out and interesting, but written in such a real life manner that the books are a wonderful, involved, but uncomplicated, read. So, time for Book 5! I have to know how Conor and friends are doing!
I have now read all 4 books in this series, and feel like I know each and every character personally. Another reader said she felt "content" after reading this series, and I couldn't agree more. The characters are very "relatable," the storylines (of which there are several in each book) are well thought out and interesting, but written in such a real life manner that the books are a wonderful, involved, but uncomplicated, read. So, time for Book 5! I have to know how Conor and friends are doing!
January 23, 2021
I truly enjoy reading this author. She creates interesting characters that are uniquely compelling and have me, as the reader, anxious to learn more of their stories. Having Irish ancestry and also having visited most of the places described in this series, I thoroughly enjoy each book. Sometimes the dialogue is a bit sappy and emotional, but I find nothing wrong with a happy ending occasionally. Her Star and Shamrock series was fun to read. This Tour series is as well. I am ready to see what Conor will be up to next!
December 28, 2018
Welcome home, Bubbles
I loved every sentence of this book. Jean Grainger has the ability to make the reader part of the story, wrapped up in it so to speak. The characters are friends; their troubles are your troubles; their joys, yours too. The Americans Jean portrays are also true to life. She knows us almost as well as we know ourselves. And if you've never been to Ireland read this series of four books and you are there.
I loved every sentence of this book. Jean Grainger has the ability to make the reader part of the story, wrapped up in it so to speak. The characters are friends; their troubles are your troubles; their joys, yours too. The Americans Jean portrays are also true to life. She knows us almost as well as we know ourselves. And if you've never been to Ireland read this series of four books and you are there.
January 1, 2019
Another engaging story in the "Tour" series. The characters are lively and true to life, relatable. A nice storyline, everyone has part to play. Hard to put down and sad to see end. The most meaningful item in the story itself was the inclusion of the song "The Parting Glass". Just days before starting the book my eldest sister passed away, the first sibling in our family to leave us. She was 84 and I am 65. How blessed we are!!
January 3, 2019
This is a wonderful book about Ireland with charming characters, interesting plot twists, and vivid descriptions of the Irish countryside. It can be read as a stand alone book, but give yourself a treat and read the other three books in the Tour Series. The author does an amazing job weaving together the existing characters and their story with a new group of characters to create an engaging story that holds you right until the end. Loved this book!
January 22, 2019
Another beautiful story of family in the widest sense.
Jean has done it again! This beautiful story explores human relationships which are varied and complex. The characters, both old and new, are expertly developed and interesting. Jean does not shy away from issues which real people face every day. She treats them with sensitivity and rejoices that good does shine through in the end. Hope is not a mere abstraction in her book.
Get it, read it, be uplifted.
Jean has done it again! This beautiful story explores human relationships which are varied and complex. The characters, both old and new, are expertly developed and interesting. Jean does not shy away from issues which real people face every day. She treats them with sensitivity and rejoices that good does shine through in the end. Hope is not a mere abstraction in her book.
Get it, read it, be uplifted.
May 21, 2019
Another winner
Nearly every time I finish a Jean Grainger book, I think "That was my favorite." No exception with this one. The Connor series brings in stories of so many different people with interesting backgrounds, and mingled with those is the ongoing saga of Connor, Ana, and the people who surround them. I always feel as though I'm saying goodbye to friends when I come to the last page of a Grainger novel.
Nearly every time I finish a Jean Grainger book, I think "That was my favorite." No exception with this one. The Connor series brings in stories of so many different people with interesting backgrounds, and mingled with those is the ongoing saga of Connor, Ana, and the people who surround them. I always feel as though I'm saying goodbye to friends when I come to the last page of a Grainger novel.
June 14, 2019
Disappointed
I really enjoyed the first three books in this series and was so glad to see the next one available. It just didn't hold my interest I almost didn't finish it. I didn't find the characters interesting or caring about them didn't get the child coming along on this kind of trip either and couldn't get the total forgiveness from Conor toward his father in such a short time. If there is a next one hope it is better
I really enjoyed the first three books in this series and was so glad to see the next one available. It just didn't hold my interest I almost didn't finish it. I didn't find the characters interesting or caring about them didn't get the child coming along on this kind of trip either and couldn't get the total forgiveness from Conor toward his father in such a short time. If there is a next one hope it is better
September 16, 2019
The final novel of the tour series and with all the rest it was a fantastic read. This is about an Irishman who moved to America and lived many years making many friends. When he died in the US his friends had him cremated and they returned him to Ireland where they went on a Irish tour and spread his ashes. This novel had some very emotional and surprising twists and turns keeping the reader intrigued. By far a must read.
November 30, 2019
Absolutely wonderful!
After reading all four of the books in this series, I feel as if I know the characters personally. I really love these books, and this last one is the best yet. Ms. Grainger writes very well, drawing the reader into the story, making one feel a part of it all. It is very difficult to put these books down, wanting instead to read through to the end all in one sitting. I hope there will be more of these!
After reading all four of the books in this series, I feel as if I know the characters personally. I really love these books, and this last one is the best yet. Ms. Grainger writes very well, drawing the reader into the story, making one feel a part of it all. It is very difficult to put these books down, wanting instead to read through to the end all in one sitting. I hope there will be more of these!
July 10, 2022
Home run once again!
First: *5 because I love your stories that take me to a wonderful world, totally unimaginable to the one I live in. All have beautiful nd poignant endings. I won't but it is what it is.
All should read your books. Male and females. Perhaps they would understand what happiness , good people, to laugh is good, compassion and empathy are good things.
I'm on to the next in the series! See ya there!
First: *5 because I love your stories that take me to a wonderful world, totally unimaginable to the one I live in. All have beautiful nd poignant endings. I won't but it is what it is.
All should read your books. Male and females. Perhaps they would understand what happiness , good people, to laugh is good, compassion and empathy are good things.
I'm on to the next in the series! See ya there!
January 12, 2023
Outstanding!
There is such emotionally charged depths to this book. Parts of it bring one to tears and the majority laced with laugh out loud moments. I have recently discovered a number of Irish authors and I appreciate their gifts of story telling! This series is beautifully written and one can close their eyes ( if doing the audio ) and be swept to the Emerald Isle. I highly recommend this one!
There is such emotionally charged depths to this book. Parts of it bring one to tears and the majority laced with laugh out loud moments. I have recently discovered a number of Irish authors and I appreciate their gifts of story telling! This series is beautifully written and one can close their eyes ( if doing the audio ) and be swept to the Emerald Isle. I highly recommend this one!
July 2, 2023
This Tour series is a fun listen. The topics explored of human experience are not always pleasant, but I prefer stories where good prevails over evil and that's generally the theme in this series. The people are written realistic and the world they are in is too - relatable. Not everything is easy, not everyone wins, but mostly good shines through. The narrator is wonderful and a perfect fit for these stories.
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