The Lost House of Ireland

Starlight Cottages #4

by Susanne O'Leary

An enchanting story about forgotten family secrets that will transport you to the charming village of Sandy Cove on the beautiful Irish coast.

Allegra Casey is searching for a new beginning. So when she discovers an engagement ring buried in the sand near her home in Cape Cod, the last place she expects it to lead her is to the west coast of Ireland. But when she arrives in the tiny village of Sandy Cove, she finds herself falling in love with the crashing waves, the picturesque coast and the warm-hearted people.

As soon as she settles into her cottage at the old coastguard station, Allegra meets her eccentric neighbours. They believe the ring belonged to Davina Courtney, whose family still live on the Strawberry Hill estate just outside the village. And when Allegra visits the old mansion, she meets the charming, enigmatic Max Courtney-Smythe, the great-nephew of the former owner.

As they try to solve the mystery of the long-lost ring, Allegra and Max grow closer, and it soon becomes clear that their feelings for one another are mutual. And as she spends more time with the local community, Allegra wonders if she’s finally found the place she can call home.

But the reappearance of the engagement ring causes problems among the heirs of the estate and, as Max suddenly grows distant, Allegra wonders whether she should never have travelled to Sandy Cove. Is thiswhere she will finally find true love, or is she destined to leave this magical place alone?

Fans of Mary Alice Monroe, Debbie Macomber and Sheila O’Flanagan will fall in love with this delightful, feel-good Irish romance.

Genres: Fiction, Romance, Ireland, Contemporary, Audiobook, Irish Literature

252 pages, Kindle Edition

Published June 8, 2022

About the author

Susanne O’Leary is the bestselling author of more than 30 novels, mainly romantic fiction set in Ireland. Her many books set in County Kerry have been hugely popular with readers all over the world. She shares her time between Dublin and Kerry, where she and her husband have a little cottage near the beach. The wild, beautiful landscape, the small villages and the friendly people of that county have inspired her to write her feel-good stories. She's been inspired to represent people of all ages and walks of life, with lots of romance, and more than a dash of humour.

When she is not writing or reading by the fire, Susanne loves heading for the great outdoors, walking on the beaches or scaling the green hills of her favourite county.

Reviews

[Carrie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Review coming soon.

[Nicole · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Lost House of Ireland #4 Starlight Cottages
4✨

[Bookworm86 · Rating 5 out of 5]

BLOG TOUR REVIEW

Review for 'The Lost House Of Ireland' by Susanne O'Leary.

Read and reviewed via NetGalley for Susanne O'Leary , Bookouture publishers and Bookouture anonymous

Publication date 8th June 2022.

This is the fourth book I have read by this author. It is also the fourth book in the 'Starlight Cottages' series but can be read as a standalone. I have previously read 'The Lost Girls Of Ireland' which is the first book in the 'Starlight Cottages' series and seventh in the 'Sandy Cove' series, 'The Lost Secret Of Ireland' which is the second book in the 'Starlight Cottages' series and eighth book in the 'Sandy Cove' series and 'The Lost Promise Of Ireland' which is the ninth book in the 'Sandy Cove' series and the third book in the 'Starlight Cottages' series and all can also be read as a standalone and which I highly recommend.


I was originally drawn to this book by its beautiful eye catching cover and its intriguing synopsis and title. The synopsis stated that 'Fans of Mary Alice Monroe, Debbie Macomber and Sheila O’Flanagan will fall in love with this delightful, feel-good Irish romance. .' I am a huge fan of Debbie Macomber so am looking forward to seeing if this lives up to this statement. I am also a huge fan of Susanne O'Leary and if this is half as good as 'The Lost Girls Of Ireland', 'The Lost Promise Of Ireland' and 'The Lost Secret Of Ireland' it is sure to be a page turning read. I must admit I was also biased due to the publisher being Bookouture. I have yet to read a book published by Bookouture that I haven't enjoyed. Hopefully this won't be the first... Watch this space! (Written before I started reading the book).

This novel consists of 24 chapters and an epilogue The chapters are short to medium in length so possible to read 'just one more chapter' before bed...OK, I know yeah right, but still just in case!

This book is based in Cape Cod, Massachusetts, USA 🇺🇸 and Ireland 🇮🇪 UK 🇬🇧. The bonus for me of books that are partly or fully based in the UK is that I live in the UK and have sometimes visited places mentioned in the book which makes it easier to picture. The fact that this book is based in Ireland is even better as I have been on holiday in Ireland many times so may even recognise some places Emma has set the book around.

This book is written in third person perspective with the main protagonist is Allegra Casey. The benefits of third person perspective are that it let's you see the bigger picture of what's going on and you get to know more characters more, what they are thinking and what they are doing. It feels like you get to see the whole picture and not miss out in anything.

Well done Susanne you have done it again!!!! OMG! OMG!! I cannot remember the last time I was so gutted to come to the end of a book!! I absolutely fell in love and it genuinely felt like I was packing my bags and being whisked away from my Irish holiday when I read the last page. Absolutely gorgeous!!!

The book is so well written with its stunning and vivid descriptions that I genuinely felt that I was standing with Allegra throughout feeling the Irish breeze in my hair and smelling the ocean. The synopsis and cover suited the storyline perfectly.

Although this book is the fourth in a series it can be read as a standalone with no problems. In fact I never came across anything in the book that would make me think it was part of a series. The storyline was realistic and just beautiful. It starts off in such a sad place and from the rain a rainbow was born. I loved getting to know everyone on Sandy Cove and Starlight Cottages and enjoyed the atmosphere and my gorgeous surroundings. It genuinely felt like I was on holidays and after not having one for so long this was definitely the closest thing.

The storyline was filled with romance, stunning settings, love, secrets, deceit, friendship, community and family. It made me feel all bubbly inside and it had an air of mystery trying to work out what it was that a certain person was up to. There was plenty of laughter, hope, love and some tension and sadness mixed in. I was intrigued by the mention of Fungie the dolphin so looked him up which geve me some more fascinating information to read!! Absolutely everything you want in a romantic getaway. I loved the ending which is absolutely perfect and gives me yet another relationship to look forward to watching develop in your next book 🥂

I always love it when I see a new book by Susanne as she is one of those authors who writes stunning books I know I am going to love!!!

The characters were all solid, realistic and I loved that they all had their own unique personalities. Allegra, Ellie, Lydia and Lucille are such strong and determined women, each of these amazing women have their own stories to tell which you can find in the rest of the 'Sandy Cove' series and I loved adding Allegra to my list.. I love it when the protagonist is such a strong female lead being a woman myself it's great to see, having four was an extra bonus!!! Allegra grows into such an independent woman throughout the book and it was beautiful to see her relationship with Ellie, Lydia and Lucile and the way they supported each other through thick and thin. Rory and Max well phew, what handsome and romantic men. It wasn't just the main characters that made this book but also all the neighbours too, I really enjoyed meeting them all. I enjoyed meeting Ellie, Lydia, Jason, Lucille and Rory again along with new faces such as Allegra, Max and Gwen and continuing to see friendships and relationships grow and bonds develop and secrets revealed. The only two people I disliked were Edwin's and Kate but you never know Edwin's may grow on me. Susanne portrayed Irish Country life perfectly and it was exactly the same when I went on holidays for a fortnight many years ago, the close knit community where everyone knew each other and was so helpful.

I absolutely love each and every visit Susanne takes me on to Sandy Cove where every time it feels like I'm meeting up with old friends again while knowing I will make new ones.

Susanne I fell in love with yet another of your heart warming, page turning and stunning books which took my heart away and left me gutted when my holiday ended. This is exactly why your on my favourite author list!! I have already added all your books on my wish lists and I cannot wait for my next Irish adventure!!! Please get these put on the big screen!! Here is to your next gorgeous success 🥂

Overall an absolutely stunning, heart warming romance that will have you heading off to Ireland in the blink of an eye.

Genres covered in this novel include Contemporary Fiction, Romance Novel, Women's Literary Fiction, Historical Fiction, Contemporary Romance and Holiday Fiction amongst others.


I would recommend this book to the fans of the above as well as fans of Mary Alice Monroe, Debbie Macomber, Sheila O’Flanagan , Nicholas Sparks and just anyone and everyone whether you are looking to get away or for romance this is the book for you!!!


280 pages.

This book is just £2.99 to purchase on kindle via Amazon which I think is an absolute bargain for this book!!!

Rated 5/5 (I LOVED it ) on Goodreads, Instagram, Amazon UK and Amazon US and on over 30 Facebook pages plus my blog on Facebook.

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[Robin Loves Reading · Rating 5 out of 5]

Allegra Casey travels from Cape Cod to Sandy Cove in Ireland after she finds a ring in the sand while at the beach. She has three weeks to find out who the ring belonged to. Allegra knew to go to Ireland because of the inscription on the ring. With only so much time before she heads back to America, Allegra starts looking for clues.

The ring's inscription, one that is barely legible, is what led Allegra to Ireland. Two names seem very likely - Davina and Sean. In short order, Allegra is certain that the ring belonged to Davina Courtney, thus her trip to Ireland. Davina has recently passed away, but apparently she still has relatives in Ireland. The fact that the ring was found in America but seems to have originated in Ireland really raises Allegra's curiosity, and she takes on the role of a sleuth.

While in Ireland, Allegra meets Max Courtney-Smythe, the great-nephew of Davina. While they work together trying to locate who Sean might have been, both Allegra and Max find that they are quite drawn to one another and a romance soon begins to bloom. However, they live thousands of miles apart, and with only three weeks for Allegra to spend in Ireland, a happy future between them hardly seems likely.

I enjoyed the gorgeous setting, the drama and the characters, and these include the recurring characters from previous books in this series. Also, there is one individual who might offset Allegra's genuine intent of handing the ring to the proper owner, thus a bit of intrigue is part of this story.

While this book could be read as a standalone novel, if you are a reader that enjoys continuity, do not hesitate to read the three previous books in this lovely series, The Lost Girls of Ireland, The Lost Secret of Ireland and The Lost Promise of Ireland. Each story in this series is truly endearing and these books are sure to leave any reader with a warm feeling.

Many thanks to Bookouture and to NetGalley for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.

Please enjoy my YouTube video review - https://youtu.be/xJ_hRJGM3tY

[Bridget · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the fourth book I have read by Susanne O'Leary set in Sandy Cove featuring the Starlight Cottages. It's a series though it can be read as a standalone.

Allegra Casey lives in Cape Cod. One day she is out walking on the beach when she discovers an engagement ring buried in the sand engraved with two names. The find takes her to Ireland's west coast, and she will stay in a cottage at the old coastguard station. Her neighbours have an idea who might own the ring so she visits a mansion on Strawberry Hill estate just outside the village, where she meets Max Courtney-Smythe.

Sandy Cove is a place where there is a great community and friendship. Endearing characters are trying to find their way through their life situations. The story dances the reader smoothly through oodles of drama, soupcons of mystery and romance chances set amidst the backdrop of a gorgeous coastline. A wonderfully fulfilling, highly recommended read.

I received a complimentary copy of this novel at my request from Bookouture via NetGalley. This review is my own unbiased opinion.

[Sheila · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received an ARC of, The Lost House of Ireland, by Susanne O"Leary. This book is book 4 of the Starlight Cottages series. I really enjoyed this book, I loved the location, Ireland is amazing. Their was mystery, intrigue, and romance.

[Joanna- LifeWithPrinceMan · Rating 2 out of 5]

✨ Have you ever visited a different country? ✨

The setting in The Lost House of Ireland now has me wanting to visit Ireland even more!

📝 Allegra Casey is still dealing with the death of her father. She wants to move on, but nothing is more comforting than being around her sister's family.

Then, she discovers an engagement ring buried in the sand, engraved with two names and the year 1939. She knows this is the perfect excuse to get away. Finding who the ring belonged to takes her to Sandy Cove, Ireland. There, Allegra hopes to return the ring, and maybe find love.

What I 🤍:
🇮🇪 Irish Setting
💍 Ring Mystery
🎥 Hallmark Movie Vibes
📕 Beautiful Book Cover

I was so exited to read this book! Not only is the cover GORGEOUS, but the plot seemed very unique! Then I started reading.....😔

I had MANY issues with this book. First, the writing felt like I was reading one of my student's narrative papers. 😬 Most of the plot moved through dialogue and characters repeating what another character had said the page before. In fact, one time, the characters repeated, 'Hi,' 5 times! Also, there were so many unimportant details described which were irrelevant to the story. For example, they talked about a plate of food for over a whole page (then for it later to be set aside.) I wondered if the editors told O'Leary to add more pages to the book?

This book seemed to have an identity crisis. It starts out as this precious mystery, which I was here for! 👏 I kept reading because I wanted to know who the ring belonged to. Then, at around 42%, a romance is thrown in. (This book is characterized as a romance). I wondered if the editors told O'Leary, "Hey, you need to add romance," and instead of rewriting, she just added romance in.

Friends, this romance felt CRINGY!!! What's worse, the mystery seemed to take a back seat at this point, and that part of the story felt rushed at conclusion. 😢

Prince's Rating: ⭐️⭐️
Steaminess: 🔥(Very Closed Door)
Read: ▶️ For an Irish Setting, and precious mystery

This book has the potential to be INCREDIBLE! It just needs some editing.

🌟 This book is available June 8!
Thank you @netgalley & @bookouture for a copy of this book!

[Elaine - Splashes Into Books · Rating 5 out of 5]

Allegra's building sandcastles on the Cape Cod beach
When an engraved engagement ring she finds.
The couple to whom it belongs she hopes to reach
As returning the ring to them is what she has in mind.

But the ring was lost by an Irish couple decades ago
Allegra decides their descendants to seek
So to the tiny village of Sandy Cove is where she'll go
And at Irish lifestyles and the folks there, she'll take a peek.

The place calls to Allegra, it truly feels like her home
But the story of the ring somehow needs to be known.
The family of the lady weren't aware in the past she'd roam
The ring's inscription is greeted with disbelief and a groan.

There are other surprised in store for the all
With a home in peril, family drama and so much more
Especially when someone new arrives to call,
Leaving them with even more considerations to explore.

This is a heartwarming story full of mystery and romance
With stories for the past and secrets, too,
Great community spirit, and others willing to take a chance
To help find the truth and the secrets from the past to view.

I really enjoyed revisiting Sandy Cove again
And meeting with the people there once more
Such a lovely read, I'll make it plain
I highly recommend this - and the books from before!

For my copy of this book, I say thank you,
And let you know this is my honest review.

[Monica Mac · Rating 3 out of 5]

Allegra finds a ring on the beach in the US and after a bit of sleuthing, she makes her way to Sandy Cove in Ireland in order to give the ring to the lady it belonged to, or at least her descendants. The fact that Allegra has family ties in Ireland as well, come into play too.

Now, I love books which are set in Ireland - Ireland is gorgeous and the people are witty and charming, as a general rule, so I was excited about this book. Excellent premise for a book and I wondered where this was going to go.

Unfortunately, it just didn't hit the mark, for me. I thought the obligatory romance was a bit forced and as much as I would like to believe in someone being struck by lightning, in a romantic way, I just didn't feel it, sorry.

Nice book to read for a couple of hours of escapism but there were some aspects of it which didn't really make sense and there was so much more that could have been done with this storyline.

3.5 stars from me.

Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture.

[Els · Rating 5 out of 5]

What would you do when you would find a beautiful ring hidden in the sand on the beach? Would you look around and when you realise nobody has noticed it, quickly put it in your pocket and wear it afterward as if it always has been yours? Or would you be more like Allegra and take it to the police station in the meantime dreaming about the story behind the piece of jewellery?

Allegra does more than dream and she decides to follow the ring to Ireland in order to satisfy her curiosity and get to the bottom of it.

The author takes us for the fourth time already to the Starlight Cottages in Sandy Cove, Ireland.

Fans of the series know how friendly the neighbours are and how welcoming. From the moment she arrives she is embraced by them and by the whole village. She soon feels really at home and she is certain she has made friends for life.

While little by little she finally discovers what happened all those years ago and she is dying to share it with someone who has become very important, she suddenly sees she might have been taken for a fool.

Although I thoroughly enjoyed all the books, my favourite one is this one. I loved the bit of suspense added to the mix. 5 stars

Thank you

[Kari Hentz · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was amazing! It had romance and mystery which was perfect for me. Can't wait to read the rest of the series.

[grace saint · Rating 3 out of 5]

yeah I read a silly romance novel, fight me

[Sarah J Stebbins · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.75 rating.


This is my favorite of the series so far. Another simple story, but there was nothing even close to a “who will she end up with” and the mystery that started it all was solved very well. There was still one connection to the mystery that was left hanging, but it did not bother me too much. Overall a cute, predictable and quick read.

[Fleur · Rating 1 out of 5]

Too cheesy

Very predictable. The characters are all stereotypical and the dialogue is poor. I chose this because I wanted a light read and I got what I wished for!

[Cindy Spear · Rating 5 out of 5]

'The Lost House of Ireland' completely and sincerely captivated my heart! I adored this enthralling novel from start to finish. I have loved all of the books in the series but this is without doubt my absolute favourite. Susanne O’Leary’s story has perfectly captured the spirit of Ireland in the portrayal of its lively and generous people, spell-binding settings, community closeness and special history. Plus, the wondrous themes of discovery, romance, mystery, fresh starts and renewal shine on these pages.

The adventure begins when American Allegra Casey finds a lost engagement ring in the sands at Cape Cod. It sets her mind aflame with curiosity and after doing some research, she traces the families in question to Ireland. Once she heads off to Sandy Cove, many surprises await her. Her desire to return the ring to its rightful owner is admirable but accomplishing this task proves difficult. The year engraved on the back of the ring is 1939. Will this person still be alive? If not, are there any remaining relatives and how will she find them?

One of the appealing things about this story is how Allegra finds her own passion and purpose in trying to set things right with the ring. For pieces of the Emerald Isle are woven into her own DNA and once those genes awaken, she questions whether she can ever go back to the life she had before. In many ways this story is like a beautiful fairy tale that comes complete with its own kind of prince: at least one potential love interest for Allegra. But who is the real rescuer? Maybe it is Allegra herself, even though her visit to the island exposes some hidden family wars.

'The Lost House of Ireland' contains so many things I love: mystery, Irish roots, horses, old houses, lost and found items, family dramas and a special song. One of the beauties of this story is how Allegra finds a new sense of purpose in her attempt to return what’s lost. And in doing so, transforms the hearts of those around her. But this quest gives her something else, too. As a descendant, when she steps foot on Ireland’s shores, she is swept up in the magic of its living history. Its land and seascape beauty, along with the people, quicken her soul to what’s most important in life and this makes her want to stay. This ancient romantic island saturated in centuries of stories, changing weather and rural charm captures her heart. The old house gives her a nudge, too, when it gives up its past. So many stories and secrets are hidden within its walls. She finds the answers she seeks but discovers even more. Her heart awakens in Ireland and she finds a place that truly feels like home. And then there’s Max, the handsome male member of the Courtney family and co-resident of the impressive old house on Strawberry Hill, who plays a vital role in her waking from the spell of mediocre existence.

As for the residents of Sandy Cove, some familiar friendly faces from the past books of the series make appearances. Allegra gets to know many of them and they embrace her whole-heartily into the community. It is true as Irish poet William Butler Yeats once said, “There are no strangers here, only friends you haven’t met yet.” Allegra gets to experience this. And together with the Courtneys, they all work together to try and save the house when it comes under threat (and to place the rescued ring on the right finger!).

This novel has a beautiful ending that made my Irish soul sing. I loved this story and its special cast of characters so much. Susanne O’Leary has delivered an unforgettable tale that tugs on the ancestral heart strings in a big and lasting way. 'The Lost House of Ireland' is an absolute must read. 5 Exquisite Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Special thanks to Bookouture and Netgalley for a review copy.

[Carla · Rating 4 out of 5]

Allegra Casey is grieving after the death of her father. She cared for him over the last year after he suffered a stroke, and her therapist is not helping her at all. Spending a few weeks with her sister, brother-in-law, and two nieces at the beach is helping her somewhat, but she is still at a crossroads. While on the beach, she finds an engagement ring buried in the sand while making a sandcastle with her nieces. There is an inscription, and Allegra wants to try and return the ring. Researching old newspapers, leads her to Sandy Cove, Ireland. She books a cottage for a month, hoping find someone from the family to return the ring, what she doesn't expect is to fall in love with the village and its people. They determine that the ring probably belonged Davina Courtney, whose family still live on the Strawberry Hill estate just outside the village. Allegra visits the old mansion, Where meets the Max Courtney-Smythe, the great-nephew of the former owner. There is a fight between the cousins about keeping or selling the home and property, and solving the mystery of Davina might just help the family move forward, and Allegra find what she is looking for.

I enjoyed this story with its gorgeous setting, the eccentric characters, and the mystery. This is the 4th book in the series, and although it can be read as a standalone story, there are recurring characters from the previous books appearing. I do recommend you read them all, as they are all lovely stories. The mystery of Davina was interesting, dealing with social class and acceptance of those considered lower than them. Davina was in love with someone her parents didn't approve of, so what happened to them? The story of the house and the heirs added some drama to the story, with some lies and secrets. As Max and Allegra work together to solve the mystery, their feelings for one another develop, but there is the third act misunderstanding that almost breaks their budding relationship apart. I really liked Allegra. She was genuine, relatable, kind and trying to do what was right. The way she cared for her dad, then grieved when he died was very realistic. Max was a wonderful partner for her. He was also trying to do what was right for his cousin, and honestly wanted to help Allegra. Overall, this was a lovely story with mystery, family relationships, secrets, drama and just enough romance to make me smile. I did a read/listen with this book and enjoyed the narration by Jennifer Fitzgerald. Using tone, expression, accents and voices she made this an enjoyable listening experience, however, I also enjoyed the parts I read just as much. I recommend this book in whatever format you prefer.

[Anne · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Lost House of Ireland by Susanne O'Leary was a story of finding family and a new love after losing a parent. Allegra and her niece and nephew were playing on the beach on Cape Cod when they found an old engagement ring buried in the sand. It was engraved so Allegra wanted to see if she could trace the owner. Later that week she went to the library to research papers from 1939, the date on the ring. She wanted to return it and she wanted to go to Ireland so, best of both worlds . . . She got leave from her job and rented a cottage in a place called Sandy Cove for a month and off she went. The Irish were the friendliest people ever and she made it to her cottage fairly easily and started meeting people the moment she got there. All were enthralled with the story and wanted to help. Many of them could, and so they started off. Like any genealogical research there were dead ends and misinformation to be sorted through. There were also the vestiges of the old class system, keeping people mired in the same feelings that had been around forever. She got mixed up in a controversy about selling an old family manor that was truly in rough shape.

Allegra didn't know where she was going or what she was doing. She was looking fro something. She wasn't sure what, but she was open to it. The town was so friendly and had it's own network so she was well known before she went anywhere. There were some eccentric people in the mix, as well, but all kindly. She was able to find what she was looking for but not without discovering complications along the way. It was a lovely story as O'Leary's Sandy Cove stories have a tendency to be. She returned the ring. She found a life and a purpose. What more can anyone ask?

I was invited to read a free e-ARC of The Lost House of Ireland by Bookoutre, through Netgalley. All thoughts and opinions are mine. #netgalley #bookoutre #susanneoleary #thelosthouseofireland

[Karen Stevens · Rating 2 out of 5]

Why I gave it two stars instead of one:
I loved the premise - the mystery of the ring found in the sand, the detective work to find the true owner of the ring, the ‘finding oneself’ through a long lost story, even the silly/sweet romance thrown in. And the setting was fabulous.

Why I gave it two stars instead of three, four or five:
The author needed a better editor. Her editor did not do their job…. Like at all. SO MANY unnecessary details, conversations that made no sense, unnecessary characters, so many pieces of the story left dangling (like… if Sean was so poor how in the frick did he buy her a TIFFANY diamond? Why even mention that it was a Tiffany? Didn’t matter to the story AT ALL. Why were they in the US anyway back in 1939? Just so she could lose her ring there to be found 80 years later? Why did his great nephew shut them down and leave when he realized they were friends with the Courtneys? - we’re left to believe it’s because of the money but a circle back to that character would have been nice… the list goes on and on of examples like this)
Separately- my mom and I listened to the audiobook on a road trip. I give the narrator one star. If she had just read the book it would have been great, she has a lovely reading voice. But her different voices for the different characters were not good - especially the two main characters! She tried to do an American accent for the main character of the book and she kept falling out of it. And then for the love interest - OMG - he was supposed to be a 30-something horse-riding hottie, but she made him sound like a 75 year old British butler - except she kept losing the British and falling into Irish. The voice she gave him was cringe!
One bonus to the audiobook: my mom kept falling asleep because we were on a road trip and she didn’t really miss anything due to all the superfluous details and side stories. She only had to ask me what she missed once. LOL

[DG Reads · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture for providing this advance copy for review. All opinions are my own.

After finding an engagement ring on a Cape Cod beach, Allegra Casey resolves to reunite the ring with its rightful owners. This search takes her to the coastal village of Sandy Cove, Ireland, and to the Courtney family, whose family owns a large landed estate in the village. Allegra and Max, scion of this wealthy family, attempt to solve this mystery of this lost ring, but when mysterious other claimants appear and attempt to claim their share of the Courtney inheritance, Max and Allegra must decide whether these circumstances will draw them closer together or force them apart.

The Lost House of Ireland was a charming story with warm characters that will resonate with anyone who has ever sought a new start in life. I would call The Lost House more of a women’s fiction novel than a romance, as Allegra’s story is as much (or more) about becoming part of a community and finding a new place for herself as it is about her romance. However, I was disappointed to see the heroine use some sexist language towards the end of the book. It’s 2022. There’s no reason to call other women (even women you don’t like and especially women you’ve never actually met) derogatory names, like bimbo, just because they have a prior connection with your love interest. With the caveat about the sexist language, I would still recommend The Lost House of Ireland as a nice summer read for readers looking for a cozy women’s fiction story with suspense and romantic elements. 3.75 stars.

[Mary · Rating 5 out of 5]

My favorite in the series so far.
"Allegra Casey is searching for a new beginning. So when she discovers an engagement ring buried in the sand near her home in Cape Cod, the last place she expects it to lead her is to the west coast of Ireland. But when she arrives in the tiny village of Sandy Cove, she finds herself falling in love with the crashing waves, the picturesque coast and the warm-hearted people.
As soon as she settles into her cottage at the old coastguard station, Allegra meets her eccentric neighbours. They believe the ring belonged to Davina Courtney, whose family still live on the Strawberry Hill estate just outside the village. And when Allegra visits the old mansion, she meets the charming, enigmatic Max Courtney-Smythe, the great-nephew of the former owner.
As they try to solve the mystery of the long-lost ring, Allegra and Max grow closer, and it soon becomes clear that their feelings for one another are mutual. And as she spends more time with the local community, Allegra wonders if she’s finally found the place she can call home.
But the reappearance of the engagement ring causes problems among the heirs of the estate and, as Max suddenly grows distant, Allegra wonders whether she should never have travelled to Sandy Cove. Is this where she will finally find true love, or is she destined to leave this magical place alone?" synopsis copied

[loopyloulaura · Rating 4 out of 5]

A ring lost for almost a century. A woman who needs a purpose and a fresh start. Allegra leaves the USA to travel to Ireland to try to reunite the ring with its proper owner.
The Lost House of Ireland is the fourth book in the Starlight Cottages series. It can be read as a stand alone novel although there are characters that feature in the earlier books.
Allegra is devastated by her father's death. The chance discovery of a ring on a beach set her off on a trip to Ireland to distract herself from her grief. The ring has an inscription and she heads to Sandy Cove to find the owner of the ring or their descendents. I felt a huge emotional pull to Allegra's story and that of the engaged couple who lost the ring.
The mystery of the past give Allegra a chance to forget her own troubles. She meets a family emboiled in a legal dispute over a will and the addition of the ring and the story behind it creates more tension. Meanwhile, she has the opportunity to heal her heart with the possibility of new love.
Once again the Irish landscape is brought to life through vivid descriptions. I enjoyed catching up with the characters I had met in the earlier books. Susanne's books always play to the emotions and take the characters on a journey leaving the reader with an uplifting feeling overall.
The Lost House of Ireland is an enjoyable and warm novel about love and loss.

[Caroline|Page~Turners · Rating 5 out of 5]

Allegra Casey is in much need of a fresh start. While on the beaches of Cape Cod she finds an engagement ring buried in the sand. The inscription in the ring leads her to the tiny village of Sandy Cove on the west coast of Ireland. Allegra immediately falls in love with the people and the beautiful coastline. Allegra meets her neighbors and she shows them the ring. They believe it belongs to a family living just outside the village. Allegra visits the estate and meets Max who is the great-nephew of the former owner. Max and Allegra become very fond of each other as they team up to find out who owned the engagement ring.

I almost don’t know where to begin in describing how this book hit all my emotions. I was completely captivated by the amazing description of Sandy Cove, from the sparkling waters to the beaches and the warm sunshine. I loved the chemistry between Allegra and Max and as always love the villagers were such a joy. This story was so moving and completely melted my heart. This story is uplifting and inspiring and I found it to be unputdownable. I absolutely loved it.

Thank you Susan O’Leary for such a wonderful continuation to the Starlight Cottages Series. This delightful story is a must read.

[Allyson · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you to NetGalley, the publishing house and the author for the opportunity to read a complimentary copy of this book in return for a review based upon my honest opinion.

This is the fourth book in the Starlight Cottages series. I have read and enjoyed all of these books. They are a little escape to visit old friends in a lovely little seaside village in Ireland.

This book was about Allegra, who is still grieving her father’s death. She finds an old ring on vacation with sister and family. Something about this ring calls to her and the inscription inside, Davina and Sean, dated 1939 sends her on a mission to find more. This mission leads her to a newspaper advert that leads her to Ireland. She takes vacation to the Starlight Cottages in Sandy Cove to solve the mystery. She meets many of the locals and of course there is a handsome man involved, Max, who could be an heir of Davina.

I enjoyed following the journey to find the rightful owner of the ring and the sweet ending to this book.

A great summer beach read! Hope there are more books in this series.

[Anna · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you NetGalley and Bookouture for a copy of "The Lost House of Ireland" in exchange for my honest review.

This is the fourth book in the Starlight Cottages series. We meet someone new that is staying in one of the cottages - Allegra Casey. She comes to Ireland searching for the owner of a ring that she found on a Cape Cod beach. The inscription in the ring is from July 1939 and she traces the ring to a Davina Courtney and Sean Walsh of County Kerry. Not wanting to just keep the ring, Allegra sets off on a journey to find the rightful owner but also to find herself in the process. The cottages of the former coastguard station have always been magical in the previous books and it is true once again.

The best part of these books are the highlighting of the friendly people that you meet in small towns across Ireland. Looking forward to who will arrive at the coastguard cottages next.

[Sheila Penwell · Rating 5 out of 5]

As with every book in this series. This one was no exception. This story is about Allegra, who while on the Cape Cod Beach with her niece and nephew find a ring, a very old ring that belonged to Sean who lived in Sandy Cove . It has his name and Davina's , who he was engaged to . Allegra is trying to accept her father's death and feels a trip to Ireland will help her. She knew that her DAD had wanted to go back there. she had gotten 3 weeks and decided she would go.She is hoping to find some family of the couple whose name is on the ring. to give it to them. So off she goes to the cottages of Stoney Cove there she meets Lucille and Lydia who get her started. Davina has just recently died and so they make their way to Strawberry Hill and there she meets Max. Read this book and follow her on her journey . Does she find what she is looking for and does she end up staying there. I loved the story and hope you read it and enjoy it too.

[Paula · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Lost House of Ireland, the fourth book in the Starlight Cottages Series by Susanne O'Leary is an enjoyable read. It is like going along with Allegra Casey on a mini-vacation to Ireland. A found lost ring, a trip to find the owner and new beginnings are all part of this story along with the wonderful Irish landscape and people. Sandy Cove community helps Allegra heal from her own loss while also giving her a place to lovingly grow again.

I enjoyed the mystery of the ring as well as the new romance that comes about because of it. I also enjoyed the food and Sandy Cove, Ireland’s sense of place. Most of all I enjoy getting to know the characters.

The Lost House of Ireland is a feel good Irish romance that was a pleasure to read.

An ARC of the book was provided by the publisher through NetGalley which I voluntarily chose to read and reviewed. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Donna · Rating 4 out of 5]

The story
Allegra is on holiday at the family cottage in Cape Cod when she discovers an old engagement ring in the sand. She traces its origins to an Irish couple who lost it before WW2 in 1939. When she researches some more, she is led to a small coastal village where the owners came from. She travels there to try return the ring to its rightful owner.

My thoughts
This book is one of several in this sweet series set in a seaside village in Kerry, Ireland. The cottage Allegra rents is in the cluster featured in the other books. There is more of a historical story to this book which kept things interesting. There is also attraction and some real life feelings. I enjoyed this fun and light read. ❤️

I read an eARC copy courtesy of NetGalley and the publisher.

[PAMpublish · Rating 5 out of 5]

Allegra, while visiting the beach, found a buried diamond ring engraved with two names in Cape Cod. Investigating the names and dates, it took her to Ireland during her vacation to find the owners behind the story of how it ended up there. It takes her to a huge run-down manse where she meets up with a handsome kin of the now deceased owner. It takes much investigation, amidst interference, to find the truth behind the mystery. Enjoyed all the lovely description of the sights of Ireland, despite having to get used to the main character's name which is the same as my allergy medicine in the USA. Otherwise, a good read!

[Jane · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Lost House of Ireland is one of the best books in Susanne O’Leary’s Sandy Cove series. Centered around an old diamond ring found on a Cape Code beach, the story weaves its way to Ireland, where the American finder, Allegra, desperately wants to return the ring to its proper place. All of Ms. O’Leary’s novels immerse the reader in Irish culture, small village living and food. This book is delightful. I voluntarily reviewed an advance copy of this book from NetGalley. Most highly recommend.

[Doreen Montis · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Lost House of Ireland was a treasure for me to find and read. A wonderfully told story about a woman who finds a ring on the beach in the US and travels to Ireland to uncover the story behind the ring. Quaint villages and family secrets transport the reader. The book is filled with charming characters, scenery and light romance. I did not want the story to end. This was my first book by Susanne O’Leary. She is now a must read author for me. Thank you NetGalley and Bookouture for the opportunity to read an advance copy and discover a wonderful writer.