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The Sandycove Supper Club
Do what you love. Love what you do…
After a whirlwind courtship, Roisin Kelly ignored the sceptics and objectors and married aspiring novelist Brody Brady.
Fast forward one year and Roisin’s honeymoon is well and truly over. Brody has become her reclusive, freeloading lodger whilst he pens his masterpiece and she walks on eggshells.
Working in the Council Planning office, Roisin dreams to escape the mundanity of her life. Her true passions are cooking and entertaining her family and friends but she lacks the confidence to take it any further. When a charity supper club is suggested by best friends Jools and Richard, Roisin has no choice and is reluctantly swept along to be head chef for the fundraiser.
With the help of her friends, Roisin starts to believe that there is more to life that moody writers, hamsters and poor hygiene and that maybe she has a few dreams of her own.
And that just when you think life has nothing left to give, your whole world can change.
After a whirlwind courtship, Roisin Kelly ignored the sceptics and objectors and married aspiring novelist Brody Brady.
Fast forward one year and Roisin’s honeymoon is well and truly over. Brody has become her reclusive, freeloading lodger whilst he pens his masterpiece and she walks on eggshells.
Working in the Council Planning office, Roisin dreams to escape the mundanity of her life. Her true passions are cooking and entertaining her family and friends but she lacks the confidence to take it any further. When a charity supper club is suggested by best friends Jools and Richard, Roisin has no choice and is reluctantly swept along to be head chef for the fundraiser.
With the help of her friends, Roisin starts to believe that there is more to life that moody writers, hamsters and poor hygiene and that maybe she has a few dreams of her own.
And that just when you think life has nothing left to give, your whole world can change.
350 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 17, 2011
984 people are currently reading
409 people want to read
About the author
Siân O'Gorman
22 books128 followersFor Once In My Life...
A Tale of Love, Discovery, and Second Chances...
In the bustling world of Dublin's advertising scene, Kitty O’Sullivan, a copywriter, feels an unexplainable void in her life that she can't quite pinpoint. Her five-year relationship with Dave is stagnant, her creative juices have dried up and she’s even entertaining thoughts of marriage as a cure-all! Something’s missing from her life but she can’t work out exactly what it is…
When Dave decides to take time out from ‘them’, Kitty finds herself momentarily liberated to explore life and have some fun. She and best friend Shazza are corralled into joining a five-aside football team where she meets the intriguing Sweetman brothers, Tom and Rory.
As they sail around the enchanting coast of Dublin, engage in fierce football battles and stumble upon a magical secret drinking den, Kitty falls in love with her new life - and her new self - but is it only temporary until Dave returns?
Will Kitty find the answers to life's mysteries and take charge of her future?
Join Kitty on this journey of love, self-discovery, and the pursuit of a life truly worth living.
Siân is on instagram as sianogorman1. Come and say hello!
A Tale of Love, Discovery, and Second Chances...
In the bustling world of Dublin's advertising scene, Kitty O’Sullivan, a copywriter, feels an unexplainable void in her life that she can't quite pinpoint. Her five-year relationship with Dave is stagnant, her creative juices have dried up and she’s even entertaining thoughts of marriage as a cure-all! Something’s missing from her life but she can’t work out exactly what it is…
When Dave decides to take time out from ‘them’, Kitty finds herself momentarily liberated to explore life and have some fun. She and best friend Shazza are corralled into joining a five-aside football team where she meets the intriguing Sweetman brothers, Tom and Rory.
As they sail around the enchanting coast of Dublin, engage in fierce football battles and stumble upon a magical secret drinking den, Kitty falls in love with her new life - and her new self - but is it only temporary until Dave returns?
Will Kitty find the answers to life's mysteries and take charge of her future?
Join Kitty on this journey of love, self-discovery, and the pursuit of a life truly worth living.
Siân is on instagram as sianogorman1. Come and say hello!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 99 reviews
October 3, 2022
This book was wonderful beyond words! I read through the pages quickly because it is so amusing, interesting, and realistic.
I found the narrative to start out a little slowly, but as it progressed, I found myself wanting to read more. The narrative made you feel involved in the action as you read it and was both heartwarming and encouraging.
Roisin, the primary character, was a very interesting character who I liked from the very beginning. Roisin finds strength in her close friendships and her attempts to transform her life. I adored how, by the time the story was over, she resembled a buddy much more than a mere character.
The story's supporting cast brought so much humor and charm. are exceptionally drawn, and the dialogue and exchanges are amusing and sweet as well. Within the bigger plot, there are so many little tales of love, discovery, community, and friendship that make you grin and pull at your heart.
Although somewhat predictable, the plot was mostly reassuring. those affable writing styles that are simple to adapt to and to get along with. The emotional material is also really beautifully handled; the entire novel is laced with a soft warmth that I quite appreciated, and I always enjoy an unanticipated second chance romance in particular. Additionally, there are some of the funniest touches ever.
I was transported to a small Irish village by the detailed language. I heartily recommend reading this book if you want a quick, heartwarming read that will make you think about the perfect life you've be placing on wait.
I found the narrative to start out a little slowly, but as it progressed, I found myself wanting to read more. The narrative made you feel involved in the action as you read it and was both heartwarming and encouraging.
Roisin, the primary character, was a very interesting character who I liked from the very beginning. Roisin finds strength in her close friendships and her attempts to transform her life. I adored how, by the time the story was over, she resembled a buddy much more than a mere character.
The story's supporting cast brought so much humor and charm. are exceptionally drawn, and the dialogue and exchanges are amusing and sweet as well. Within the bigger plot, there are so many little tales of love, discovery, community, and friendship that make you grin and pull at your heart.
Although somewhat predictable, the plot was mostly reassuring. those affable writing styles that are simple to adapt to and to get along with. The emotional material is also really beautifully handled; the entire novel is laced with a soft warmth that I quite appreciated, and I always enjoy an unanticipated second chance romance in particular. Additionally, there are some of the funniest touches ever.
I was transported to a small Irish village by the detailed language. I heartily recommend reading this book if you want a quick, heartwarming read that will make you think about the perfect life you've be placing on wait.
July 25, 2022
This book was an absolute delight! Sian O’Gorman’s descriptive writing swept me away to small town Ireland. Roisin is struggling with her self-confidence. Trapped in a deadend marriage and not quite sure what she wants to do with the rest of her life. I think most of us can relate to Roisin in one way or another. Roisin was very likable I was definitely rooting for her the entire time. Even though Roisin is married to a no good cad, she is surrounded by great friends and family. The secondary characters in the story added so much charm and whimsy. I also loved the supper club, made me hungry! This was a lovely summer read with the added bonus of a second chance romance!
*** Big thank you to Boldwood for my gifted copy of this book. All opinions are my own. ***
*** Big thank you to Boldwood for my gifted copy of this book. All opinions are my own. ***
November 5, 2022
The characters in this book were too weak and one dimensional for me.
July 10, 2022
Although I gave this book only 3 stars, that doesn't mean that I didn't like it at all. This story was very engaging for me. I found Roisin to be a very inspiring character. Honestly, I nearly didn't finish the book because of the slow pace. My favorite thing about this book was the story that made me want to keep going.
Additionally, it took too long to get to the true purpose of the story, The Sandycove Supper Club, and the book could have been shortened. I found the story to be heartwarming. Roison's struggles made me sadWith the help of her friends, Roison becomes convinced that there is more to life than just her dreams.
Even when it appears like life has nothing left to give you, suddenly everything can change for the better.
Thank you to Boldwood Books and NetGalley for the ARC.
July 21, 2022
I have been a fan of Sian’s work for a while now. By no means have I read everything that she has written , but that is something that I hope to rectify before too much longer. I read the synopsis for ‘The Sandycove Supper Club’ and it certainly sounded like the emotional but ultimately uplifting read I have come to expect from Sian. Well it was certainly all that and so much more. I thoroughly enjoyed reading ‘The Sandycove Supper Club’ but more about that in a bit.
As with all of Sian’s books, I was drawn into the story from the synopsis alone and when I started reading, I knew that I would become addicted to the story. I was correct on both counts. I warmed to the lead character of Roisin from the very beginning. In fact, I took to her so well that I began to think of her as a friend and I felt all protective of her. She hasn’t exactly got the easiest of lives and I got the distinct impression that she was rather lonely. I became desperate to know how her part of the story panned out and concluded. In all honesty I had to keep reading to see if she got the ‘happy ever after’ ending that she so deserved. I would pick the book up only intending to read a chapter or two but I would become so wrapped up in the story and in the lives of the different characters that I would still be sat there reading over several chapters and an hour or so later. I seemed to race through the story but I enjoyed every single minute of it. I found ‘The Sandycove Supper Club’ to be an emotional read, which kept tugging on my heartstrings but at the same time the story is ultimately uplifting and left me feeling as though I had had a hug from a mug of hot chocolate, in other words it left me feeling all warm and fuzzy inside.
‘The Sandycove Supper Club’ is very well written. Sian has one of those easy going writing styles that is easy to get used to and easy to get along with. In fact reading one of Sian’s books feels more like a chat between friends rather than reading a book. I hope that makes sense. Sian certainly knows how to grab the reader’s attention and draw them into what proves to be one hell of a story. I always find that the sign of a good book is when I become far too involved with the story to the extent that my emotions mirror those of the lead character and I try to ‘interact’ with the characters as if they can hear me. Reading this book certainly took me on a bit of an emotional rollercoaster ride with all the ups and downs, twists and turns. I love the way in which Sian makes the reader feel as though they are part of the story themselves and at the heart of the action.
In short, I really enjoyed reading ‘The Sandycove Supper Club’ and I would recommend it to other readers. I will certainly be reading more of Sian’s work in the future. The score on the Ginger Book Geek board is a very well deserved 5* out of 5*.
As with all of Sian’s books, I was drawn into the story from the synopsis alone and when I started reading, I knew that I would become addicted to the story. I was correct on both counts. I warmed to the lead character of Roisin from the very beginning. In fact, I took to her so well that I began to think of her as a friend and I felt all protective of her. She hasn’t exactly got the easiest of lives and I got the distinct impression that she was rather lonely. I became desperate to know how her part of the story panned out and concluded. In all honesty I had to keep reading to see if she got the ‘happy ever after’ ending that she so deserved. I would pick the book up only intending to read a chapter or two but I would become so wrapped up in the story and in the lives of the different characters that I would still be sat there reading over several chapters and an hour or so later. I seemed to race through the story but I enjoyed every single minute of it. I found ‘The Sandycove Supper Club’ to be an emotional read, which kept tugging on my heartstrings but at the same time the story is ultimately uplifting and left me feeling as though I had had a hug from a mug of hot chocolate, in other words it left me feeling all warm and fuzzy inside.
‘The Sandycove Supper Club’ is very well written. Sian has one of those easy going writing styles that is easy to get used to and easy to get along with. In fact reading one of Sian’s books feels more like a chat between friends rather than reading a book. I hope that makes sense. Sian certainly knows how to grab the reader’s attention and draw them into what proves to be one hell of a story. I always find that the sign of a good book is when I become far too involved with the story to the extent that my emotions mirror those of the lead character and I try to ‘interact’ with the characters as if they can hear me. Reading this book certainly took me on a bit of an emotional rollercoaster ride with all the ups and downs, twists and turns. I love the way in which Sian makes the reader feel as though they are part of the story themselves and at the heart of the action.
In short, I really enjoyed reading ‘The Sandycove Supper Club’ and I would recommend it to other readers. I will certainly be reading more of Sian’s work in the future. The score on the Ginger Book Geek board is a very well deserved 5* out of 5*.
July 22, 2022
I would just like to say a big thank you to Rachel’s Random Resources for very kindly forwarding me an arc copy of this book, for my Kindle, in return for my honest review.
The Sandycove Supper Club was a lovely, heartwarming story and full of the most wonderful characters.
I was very excited to read this book just from reading the blurb and I was definitely not in the least bit disappointed.
I really liked the main character, Roisin, right from the start and she was a very interesting character. At the end of the story she had become much more like a friend and not a character in a story…and I loved that!
This was a very emotional read, very heartwarming and left me with a warm and fuzzy feeling…..
The Sandycove Supper Club was a lovely, heartwarming story and full of the most wonderful characters.
I was very excited to read this book just from reading the blurb and I was definitely not in the least bit disappointed.
I really liked the main character, Roisin, right from the start and she was a very interesting character. At the end of the story she had become much more like a friend and not a character in a story…and I loved that!
This was a very emotional read, very heartwarming and left me with a warm and fuzzy feeling…..
November 11, 2022
The story fell a bit flat for me. Wasn't sure where the story was headed because none of the characters could find a way out of their situations that otherwise would seem obvious to anyone else. Purpose of the story and plot seemed to wrap up in the last 3 chapters. Middle of book seemed like chapters were just repeating.
December 13, 2023
A good read about the difficulties of deciding where your loyalties lie and how to become more true to yourself.
July 20, 2022
I received this ARC from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
A year ago
Jools and Roisín are at a Christmas party Richard made them go to celebrate his promotion to chief operations officer for a financial firm in Dublin. They are old friends from university , Richard is an highflying accountant ,Jools is a exclusive personal trainer and Roisín works for Sandycove County Council in the planning department.
It’s at this party Roisín meets the writer Brody Brady and offers him her spare room,six months later they get married!.
Present day
A year later and Brody has been in his room writing for almost a year and Roisín doesn’t hardly know anything about him , this isn’t the happy married life she wanted, work is the same just boring and not want she wants to do, her passion is cooking and she’s so good at it.
I just loved this book so much , it’s so funny and engaging and relatable I flew through the pages and I was rooting for Roisín, Richard, Jules and Mr Daley too!. The Irish charm of Sandycove was really enjoyable too.
Sometimes it just takes a little time to find out what you should be doing in life and it’s always worth waiting for.
A year ago
Jools and Roisín are at a Christmas party Richard made them go to celebrate his promotion to chief operations officer for a financial firm in Dublin. They are old friends from university , Richard is an highflying accountant ,Jools is a exclusive personal trainer and Roisín works for Sandycove County Council in the planning department.
It’s at this party Roisín meets the writer Brody Brady and offers him her spare room,six months later they get married!.
Present day
A year later and Brody has been in his room writing for almost a year and Roisín doesn’t hardly know anything about him , this isn’t the happy married life she wanted, work is the same just boring and not want she wants to do, her passion is cooking and she’s so good at it.
I just loved this book so much , it’s so funny and engaging and relatable I flew through the pages and I was rooting for Roisín, Richard, Jules and Mr Daley too!. The Irish charm of Sandycove was really enjoyable too.
Sometimes it just takes a little time to find out what you should be doing in life and it’s always worth waiting for.
August 20, 2025
This was a gentle read and I enjoyed seeing events unfold surrounding the Sandy Cove supper club.
Readers follow the protagonist, Roisin, as she quickly falls in love and marries Brody. One year later, and it would appear her marriage is not a bed of roses: the honeymoon period is well and truly over and Roisin is questioning what drove her down the aisle.
Not only that, she seems pretty lost in life. Working for the council’s planning department, it is clear that Roisin’s passions lie elsewhere – hence the beginning of the supper club. Whilst I appreciated the importance of the office scenes to help with plot development, this was the aspect of the book that I disliked the most, finding the dialogue awkward and the characters as stereotypical to the office environment.
It was Roisin’s personal life and the supper club that fascinated me the most. I loved seeing her lose herself in cooking which completely juxtaposed with the tensions surrounding her marriage. It was evident this supper club was the opportunity for Roisin to turn her life into something she wants, rather than solely existing for Brody – but Roisin needs to have the confidence to make this change.
The people that Roisin meet along the way are all rather lovely and I was curious to see what would happen with Roisin’s father and sister. There is also the lost love with Paddy’s character and, whilst it is evident that Roisin’s happy ever after is with him, it takes Roisin quite the time to reach this point.
Another cosy read from O’Gorman where family and friends can make a big difference in inspiring confidence.
With thanks to Boldwood books and NetGalley for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Readers follow the protagonist, Roisin, as she quickly falls in love and marries Brody. One year later, and it would appear her marriage is not a bed of roses: the honeymoon period is well and truly over and Roisin is questioning what drove her down the aisle.
Not only that, she seems pretty lost in life. Working for the council’s planning department, it is clear that Roisin’s passions lie elsewhere – hence the beginning of the supper club. Whilst I appreciated the importance of the office scenes to help with plot development, this was the aspect of the book that I disliked the most, finding the dialogue awkward and the characters as stereotypical to the office environment.
It was Roisin’s personal life and the supper club that fascinated me the most. I loved seeing her lose herself in cooking which completely juxtaposed with the tensions surrounding her marriage. It was evident this supper club was the opportunity for Roisin to turn her life into something she wants, rather than solely existing for Brody – but Roisin needs to have the confidence to make this change.
The people that Roisin meet along the way are all rather lovely and I was curious to see what would happen with Roisin’s father and sister. There is also the lost love with Paddy’s character and, whilst it is evident that Roisin’s happy ever after is with him, it takes Roisin quite the time to reach this point.
Another cosy read from O’Gorman where family and friends can make a big difference in inspiring confidence.
With thanks to Boldwood books and NetGalley for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
November 13, 2022
Overall liked the book. Good and easy read. Characters behaved so stupidly but I still wanted their happy ending. Ending wasn't all perfect for everyone, which is good, but too neat. Just every name in the book was being thrown out every couple lines, took a tick to remember who was who.
September 14, 2024
I thoroughly enjoyed the plot of this story, it is slow paced and was going to give it 4-5 stars, however felt the ending was rushed and did the story an injustice.
July 20, 2022
There was so much I enjoyed about this book – particularly Roisin herself, although she certainly didn’t realise what she was getting into when she rushed into marriage with Brody Brady. And understandably – when they’d warned her not to do it – she can’t share with her friends that her marriage isn’t everything she wanted it to be (although she still hopes things will change, when that book he’s writing is finally sent off…). Taken advantage of at home, she works at the planning office where arch-nemesis and bully Saoirse makes her life less than easy too – and the planning conundrum she’s given to solve around the future of Lady Immaculate Hall becomes many times more difficult when she finds herself uncomfortably involved with both the developer and the group working to save it.
The real love of her life (other than her actual first love, always impossible because he was her best friend’s brother) is cooking – and when her friends come up with the idea of a charity supper club, it gives her both an escape from life’s complications and the challenge she needs. And by the time the final event takes place, she might just find the bravery to sort things out, to reclaim her life, and perhaps to move forward into a happier future.
There’s quite a large cast in this book – Roisin’s close friends and their partners, her wonderful family, the others who work with her at the planning office, the elderly man she “adopts”, the women who provide meals for the community at Lady Immaculate Hall – and every single one is beautifully drawn, their interactions always entertaining (the author has a real “ear” for dialogue) and driving the story. I’ll admit though that I did find husband Brody a bit of a caricature – well, either that or so singularly unlikeable that I thought he should have been out on his ear far sooner, but maybe I’m not as thoroughly nice as Roisin.
The story is really well told – plenty of light and dark, a few different storylines providing intrigue (and a few surprises), and I felt really invested in Roisin’s efforts to change her life and in the strong friendships that sustain her. The emotional content is really well-handled too – the whole book is infused with a gentle warmth I rather enjoyed, and I always particularly like an unexpected second chance romance. And there really are some of the most wonderful touches of humour – just wait until you meet Fyodor…
The publishers promised “uplifting, warm, page-turning” and that’s exactly what this book delivered – a summer read that’s never too challenging, that’s always engaging, and where you’ll find friendship and love between the pages. I’d like to read more from Sian O’Gorman – I really rather enjoyed this one.
The real love of her life (other than her actual first love, always impossible because he was her best friend’s brother) is cooking – and when her friends come up with the idea of a charity supper club, it gives her both an escape from life’s complications and the challenge she needs. And by the time the final event takes place, she might just find the bravery to sort things out, to reclaim her life, and perhaps to move forward into a happier future.
There’s quite a large cast in this book – Roisin’s close friends and their partners, her wonderful family, the others who work with her at the planning office, the elderly man she “adopts”, the women who provide meals for the community at Lady Immaculate Hall – and every single one is beautifully drawn, their interactions always entertaining (the author has a real “ear” for dialogue) and driving the story. I’ll admit though that I did find husband Brody a bit of a caricature – well, either that or so singularly unlikeable that I thought he should have been out on his ear far sooner, but maybe I’m not as thoroughly nice as Roisin.
The story is really well told – plenty of light and dark, a few different storylines providing intrigue (and a few surprises), and I felt really invested in Roisin’s efforts to change her life and in the strong friendships that sustain her. The emotional content is really well-handled too – the whole book is infused with a gentle warmth I rather enjoyed, and I always particularly like an unexpected second chance romance. And there really are some of the most wonderful touches of humour – just wait until you meet Fyodor…
The publishers promised “uplifting, warm, page-turning” and that’s exactly what this book delivered – a summer read that’s never too challenging, that’s always engaging, and where you’ll find friendship and love between the pages. I’d like to read more from Sian O’Gorman – I really rather enjoyed this one.
July 15, 2022
Roisin marries aspiring writer Brody, but married life isn't as exciting when waiting for his deadline.
This novel follows the character of Rosin over the year of her first year of marriage and into her husband's writing deadline, but I struggled with this novel in places because I did not like a few of the characters; I did not understand why the character Roisin put up with it.
I understand that this novel showed the development of the character, from losing who she was, once she was married to finding her passion for cooking again through the supper club, but I wanted the character to be stronger.
I did enjoy how people were brought together through the supper club, but again I feel the narrative stopped and started and bits were slow and boring.
Overall I would give this author another go, but this book just didn't do it for me.
This novel follows the character of Rosin over the year of her first year of marriage and into her husband's writing deadline, but I struggled with this novel in places because I did not like a few of the characters; I did not understand why the character Roisin put up with it.
I understand that this novel showed the development of the character, from losing who she was, once she was married to finding her passion for cooking again through the supper club, but I wanted the character to be stronger.
I did enjoy how people were brought together through the supper club, but again I feel the narrative stopped and started and bits were slow and boring.
Overall I would give this author another go, but this book just didn't do it for me.
August 17, 2022
The Sandycove Supper Cllub is the first book I’ve read by this author but won’t be my last. Though it had a bit of a slow start for me, as the story went on I wanted to keep reading. The story was both heartwarming and uplifting and made you feel a part of the story as you read it. Sandycove is definitely a place you’d want to visit.
Sian O’Gorman has written a lovely story and in the end it was truly enjoyable.
Thank you to #netgalley and #boldwodbooks for allowing me to read the eARC of this book. All opinions expressed above are my own.
#SianO’Gorman #thesandycovesupperclub
Sian O’Gorman has written a lovely story and in the end it was truly enjoyable.
Thank you to #netgalley and #boldwodbooks for allowing me to read the eARC of this book. All opinions expressed above are my own.
#SianO’Gorman #thesandycovesupperclub
October 2, 2022
Sian O’Gorman’s The Sandycove Supper Club is an uplifting read about finding your path and following your dreams perfect for Faith Hogan and Cathy Kelly fans.
When Roisin met Brody Brady, she fell head over heels in love with him. Being charmed by the aspiring novelist was easy and despite her friends and family telling her not to rush things, she had ignored their pleas and married him after a whirlwind courtship. Roisin had stars in her eyes and imagined a lifetime of marital bliss with Brody, but reality proved a completely different prospect altogether. One year later and Roisin is miserable. While Brody pens his masterpiece and barely makes any contributions – financial or otherwise – she works her fingers to the bone at the Council Planning Office.
Roisin would love some excitement in her life as opposite to the daily grind and mundanity. She adores cooking and nothing gives her greater joy than hosting dinner parties for friends and family. Encouraged by her best friends Jools and Richard to head a charity supper club, Roisin finds herself becoming the charity’s head chef for the fundraiser and for the first time in a very long while gets a spring in her step and new lease of life.
Roisin hasn’t felt this alive in years. She has finally realised that there is more to life than dead end jobs, moody writers and poor hygiene. Is she ready to step out of the shadows and fight for her dreams? Will she find the courage to take a leap of faith and a chance on herself? Or will she let her doubts and insecurities hold her back?
The Sandycove Supper Club is a fun, effervescent and inspirational tale readers will love. Full of characters it is impossible not to relate to, The Sandycove Supper Club is a story about forging your own path, stepping out of your comfort zone and being the best version of yourself you could possibly be that effortlessly touches the heart and makes readers laugh out loud.
Sian O’Gorman writes so well that stepping between the covers of The Sandycove Supper Club feels like a chat with your best friend over a lip-smackingly delicious lunch.
An enjoyable read full of warmth, wisdom and heart, Sian O’Gorman’s The Sandycove Supper Club is sure to delight readers everywhere.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
When Roisin met Brody Brady, she fell head over heels in love with him. Being charmed by the aspiring novelist was easy and despite her friends and family telling her not to rush things, she had ignored their pleas and married him after a whirlwind courtship. Roisin had stars in her eyes and imagined a lifetime of marital bliss with Brody, but reality proved a completely different prospect altogether. One year later and Roisin is miserable. While Brody pens his masterpiece and barely makes any contributions – financial or otherwise – she works her fingers to the bone at the Council Planning Office.
Roisin would love some excitement in her life as opposite to the daily grind and mundanity. She adores cooking and nothing gives her greater joy than hosting dinner parties for friends and family. Encouraged by her best friends Jools and Richard to head a charity supper club, Roisin finds herself becoming the charity’s head chef for the fundraiser and for the first time in a very long while gets a spring in her step and new lease of life.
Roisin hasn’t felt this alive in years. She has finally realised that there is more to life than dead end jobs, moody writers and poor hygiene. Is she ready to step out of the shadows and fight for her dreams? Will she find the courage to take a leap of faith and a chance on herself? Or will she let her doubts and insecurities hold her back?
The Sandycove Supper Club is a fun, effervescent and inspirational tale readers will love. Full of characters it is impossible not to relate to, The Sandycove Supper Club is a story about forging your own path, stepping out of your comfort zone and being the best version of yourself you could possibly be that effortlessly touches the heart and makes readers laugh out loud.
Sian O’Gorman writes so well that stepping between the covers of The Sandycove Supper Club feels like a chat with your best friend over a lip-smackingly delicious lunch.
An enjoyable read full of warmth, wisdom and heart, Sian O’Gorman’s The Sandycove Supper Club is sure to delight readers everywhere.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
May 30, 2022
[Book Review]
The Sandycove Supper Club | Sian O’Gorman
Genre: Chick Lit, Romance, Women’s Fiction
Publisher: Boldwold Books
⭐️⭐️⭐️
Thank you Boldwood Books and Netgalley for this ARC in exchange for a fair an honest review.
Do what you love. Love what you do…
After a whirlwind courtship, Roisin Kelly ignored the sceptics and objectors and married aspiring novelist Brody Brady.
Fast forward one year and Roisin’s honeymoon is well and truly over. Brody has become her reclusive, freeloading lodger whilst he pens his masterpiece and she walks on eggshells.
With the help of her friends, Roisin starts to believe that there is more to life that moody writers, hamsters and poor hygiene and that maybe she has a few dreams of her own.
And that just when you think life has nothing left to give, your whole world can change.
This book came to me at the perfect time when I needed a bit of courage, confidence and a sprinkle of bravery.
Thank you Sian, for writing such a feel-good book; definitely a breath of fresh air in the bookstagram world.
Although The Sandycove Supper Club was a little slow for me at the start, the character journey Sian takes you on, the short chapter lengths, and the middle to the back end of the story is well worth the wait.
My favourites supporting characters: definitely Mr Daly and Dermot. I’ll leave it there.
Main character, Roisin Kelly, is a relatable protagonist who experiences work and life issues that everyone has at some point encountered.
Like me, you will be cheering Roisin on, from the beginning of the book until the last page.
Although I’m giving The Sandycove Supper Club three stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️, only due to the slow start, I would definitely recommend reading this beauty for an easy, feel-good read that will make your heart full and inspire you to think about that dream life you’ve been putting on hold.
The Sandycove Supper Club | Sian O’Gorman
Genre: Chick Lit, Romance, Women’s Fiction
Publisher: Boldwold Books
⭐️⭐️⭐️
Thank you Boldwood Books and Netgalley for this ARC in exchange for a fair an honest review.
Do what you love. Love what you do…
After a whirlwind courtship, Roisin Kelly ignored the sceptics and objectors and married aspiring novelist Brody Brady.
Fast forward one year and Roisin’s honeymoon is well and truly over. Brody has become her reclusive, freeloading lodger whilst he pens his masterpiece and she walks on eggshells.
With the help of her friends, Roisin starts to believe that there is more to life that moody writers, hamsters and poor hygiene and that maybe she has a few dreams of her own.
And that just when you think life has nothing left to give, your whole world can change.
This book came to me at the perfect time when I needed a bit of courage, confidence and a sprinkle of bravery.
Thank you Sian, for writing such a feel-good book; definitely a breath of fresh air in the bookstagram world.
Although The Sandycove Supper Club was a little slow for me at the start, the character journey Sian takes you on, the short chapter lengths, and the middle to the back end of the story is well worth the wait.
My favourites supporting characters: definitely Mr Daly and Dermot. I’ll leave it there.
Main character, Roisin Kelly, is a relatable protagonist who experiences work and life issues that everyone has at some point encountered.
Like me, you will be cheering Roisin on, from the beginning of the book until the last page.
Although I’m giving The Sandycove Supper Club three stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️, only due to the slow start, I would definitely recommend reading this beauty for an easy, feel-good read that will make your heart full and inspire you to think about that dream life you’ve been putting on hold.
July 26, 2022
Low self-esteem can lead to a lack of confidence and Roisin was a testament to that. Stuck in a job that she didn’t really enjoy, and pining for a love she had lost, she got married to a man she hardly knew, against advice from family and friends. Now she was determined to make the marriage work, despite Brody turning out to be nothing like the man she first met. She put up with all his ways and his lack of affection, thinking that she was supporting him in writing the great novel he talked of!
Meanwhile, she would ply her friends colleauges and family with the delicious food she made. When her friends decided to create a Supper Club to raise money for charity, Roisin reluctantly agreed to cook for strangers. With the encouragement of her friends, she tried out new dishes and began to grow in confidence with the feedback from the diners.
Redisovering her joy of cooking, she realizes that she’s been settling in other areas of her life. She begins to find the courage to reclaim herself and start to follow her heart and her dreams.
A lovely story, told with emotion and humour. It was easy for me to identify with Roisin in her choices and then in her slow growth in confidence and coming into herself. Roisin’s soft heart and generosity of spirit made her a very loveable character. I had to read through to see what she would decide to do with her life!
The other characters of this story, Roisin’s friends, colleagues and family are very well drawn and the conversations and interactions are entertaining and endearing too. There are so many smaller stories of love, discovery, community and friendship within the larger story that move you to smile and tug at your heart!
This is a beautiful story of self-discovery and finding love within yourself, before you find romantic love. Sian O’Gorman is fast becoming one of my favourite writers!
Meanwhile, she would ply her friends colleauges and family with the delicious food she made. When her friends decided to create a Supper Club to raise money for charity, Roisin reluctantly agreed to cook for strangers. With the encouragement of her friends, she tried out new dishes and began to grow in confidence with the feedback from the diners.
Redisovering her joy of cooking, she realizes that she’s been settling in other areas of her life. She begins to find the courage to reclaim herself and start to follow her heart and her dreams.
A lovely story, told with emotion and humour. It was easy for me to identify with Roisin in her choices and then in her slow growth in confidence and coming into herself. Roisin’s soft heart and generosity of spirit made her a very loveable character. I had to read through to see what she would decide to do with her life!
The other characters of this story, Roisin’s friends, colleagues and family are very well drawn and the conversations and interactions are entertaining and endearing too. There are so many smaller stories of love, discovery, community and friendship within the larger story that move you to smile and tug at your heart!
This is a beautiful story of self-discovery and finding love within yourself, before you find romantic love. Sian O’Gorman is fast becoming one of my favourite writers!
October 1, 2023
Roisin when we meet her is stuck in a bit of a rut. After a whirlwind romance she married writer Brody against everyone’s advice which now she finds herself wishing she had listened to them. Marriage is nothing like she envisioned it to be and she is plodding on trying to pretend to everyone and herself, that things will be fine.
Set in a small picturesque village in Ireland, it doesn’t fail to charm it’s reader. Roisin and her immediate family were a pleasure to get to know, along with Roisin’s friends and the other villagers. I loved her neighbour, Harry, especially and it’s a reminder of how we should make more of an effort with our elderly neighbours.
Through the characters, we get to see how people can portray their lives to be different to how they really are. Nobody likes to shout about when their life is going wrong but it’s good to have the support of the people who care about us and it’s a reminder that we are all human and we all need help every now and again. Friends and family can be so important.
The idea of the supper club was lovely to read of and had my mouth watering. It was good to see everyone coming together for good food and company and seeing Roisin’s confidence in her cooking grow the more of them she did. Her friends are just wonderful and cheered me up no end never mind Roisin!
The Sandycove Supper Club is a gentle and compelling story filled with family and good friendships. As with any book that you really enjoy reading, I didn’t want it to end as I had grown fond of the characters and wasn’t ready to say goodbye to them. It’s packed full of Irish charm and has made me even more desperate to go and visit this beautiful part of the world as I have yet to go to Ireland. A gorgeous novel to curl up with and to lose yourself for a few hours.
Set in a small picturesque village in Ireland, it doesn’t fail to charm it’s reader. Roisin and her immediate family were a pleasure to get to know, along with Roisin’s friends and the other villagers. I loved her neighbour, Harry, especially and it’s a reminder of how we should make more of an effort with our elderly neighbours.
Through the characters, we get to see how people can portray their lives to be different to how they really are. Nobody likes to shout about when their life is going wrong but it’s good to have the support of the people who care about us and it’s a reminder that we are all human and we all need help every now and again. Friends and family can be so important.
The idea of the supper club was lovely to read of and had my mouth watering. It was good to see everyone coming together for good food and company and seeing Roisin’s confidence in her cooking grow the more of them she did. Her friends are just wonderful and cheered me up no end never mind Roisin!
The Sandycove Supper Club is a gentle and compelling story filled with family and good friendships. As with any book that you really enjoy reading, I didn’t want it to end as I had grown fond of the characters and wasn’t ready to say goodbye to them. It’s packed full of Irish charm and has made me even more desperate to go and visit this beautiful part of the world as I have yet to go to Ireland. A gorgeous novel to curl up with and to lose yourself for a few hours.
August 24, 2022
I really enjoyed the last book I read by this author. There was something about the style that appealed to me. The people and places that were conjured up were equally attractive. The story was entertaining as well. I, therefore, went into this expecting an equal, if not better, experience. I am talking about another book at the start of this with a clear purpose in mind, even if that does not seem possible.
This fell short in only one of the above mentions. I did not enjoy the story. It is strange how that happened. The writing was as good as the last visit, as was the imagery. I was just unable to get invested in the outcome of the narrative.
Our leading lady is an excellent cook, although that is her passion and not her profession. She has some workmates and two close friends. The story begins with a whirlwind romance resulting in a quick wedding. It was extremely obvious why the 'whirlwind' part was the way it was, but Roisin refused to see it. This might actually have been annoying if written by somebody else, but I read it and accepted it as I was swept away by the people, their conversations and their introspections. This latter part is why I would still recommend this to people fond of a growth arc involving a woman finding herself with plentiful help from a robust supportive friend group.
Some of the situations the characters found themselves in seemed to duplicate themselves, but overall this is an author I would not mind blindly picking up another book by! Roisin finds herself and a new purpose in life. Some more expected things happen to the people around her, but that is an integral part of this genre and happily-ever-afters.
I received an ARC thanks to NetGalley and the publishers, but the review is based on my own reading experience.
This fell short in only one of the above mentions. I did not enjoy the story. It is strange how that happened. The writing was as good as the last visit, as was the imagery. I was just unable to get invested in the outcome of the narrative.
Our leading lady is an excellent cook, although that is her passion and not her profession. She has some workmates and two close friends. The story begins with a whirlwind romance resulting in a quick wedding. It was extremely obvious why the 'whirlwind' part was the way it was, but Roisin refused to see it. This might actually have been annoying if written by somebody else, but I read it and accepted it as I was swept away by the people, their conversations and their introspections. This latter part is why I would still recommend this to people fond of a growth arc involving a woman finding herself with plentiful help from a robust supportive friend group.
Some of the situations the characters found themselves in seemed to duplicate themselves, but overall this is an author I would not mind blindly picking up another book by! Roisin finds herself and a new purpose in life. Some more expected things happen to the people around her, but that is an integral part of this genre and happily-ever-afters.
I received an ARC thanks to NetGalley and the publishers, but the review is based on my own reading experience.
July 21, 2022
I thoroughly enjoyed meeting this large Irish family and group of friends for what is a lovely, uplifting read. From the beginning, when Roisin impulsively marries the would-be author, Brody, you have a feeling that her story is going to be a bit complicated and far from humdrum. The humour is what stood out in the story for me. Brody's pet hamster and some of Roisin's work fellows were great sources of laughter but most of all, was Brody himself, the self-centred writer and spinner of yarns.
The idea for the Supper Club is a challenge for Roisin, set by her friends who can see that her heart is not totally in her job as an admin assistant in the Planning Department. She is a talented chef but has zero confidence in her abilities and has to slowly build up her self- esteem. Her family have their own complicated dynamics but their family love shines through. Above all, the Supper Club sounds quite idyllic, situated in Roisin's childhood garden. It sounds like just the sort of place I'd love to go. With romance, laughter and a few exasperating moments, you are always aware that these are real human beings with faults and virtues. It is a romp of a read.
In short: Facing up to your heart's desire
Thanks to the publisher for a copy of the book
The idea for the Supper Club is a challenge for Roisin, set by her friends who can see that her heart is not totally in her job as an admin assistant in the Planning Department. She is a talented chef but has zero confidence in her abilities and has to slowly build up her self- esteem. Her family have their own complicated dynamics but their family love shines through. Above all, the Supper Club sounds quite idyllic, situated in Roisin's childhood garden. It sounds like just the sort of place I'd love to go. With romance, laughter and a few exasperating moments, you are always aware that these are real human beings with faults and virtues. It is a romp of a read.
In short: Facing up to your heart's desire
Thanks to the publisher for a copy of the book
July 18, 2022
The Sandycove Supper Club by Sian O'Gorman
I received an advance review copy for free thanks to Rachel's Random Resources and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
After a whirlwind courtship, Roisin Kelly ignored the sceptics and objectors and married aspiring novelist Brody Brady.
Fast forward one year and Roisin’s honeymoon is well and truly over. Brody has become her reclusive, freeloading lodger whilst he pens his masterpiece and she walks on eggshells.
Working in the Council Planning office, Roisin dreams to escape the mundanity of her life. Her true passions are cooking and entertaining her family and friends but she lacks the confidence to take it any further. When a charity supper club is suggested by best friends Jools and Richard, Roisin has no choice and is reluctantly swept along to be head chef for the fundraiser.
This is a charming and engaging tale. In places it was a bit slow but the great cast of characters made up for that. The plot was a bit predictable but as this was a new author to me I found it quite reassuring. A feel-good book that is easy to fit into a lazy afternoon and would make for a great holiday read.
Rating: 4/5
I received an advance review copy for free thanks to Rachel's Random Resources and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
After a whirlwind courtship, Roisin Kelly ignored the sceptics and objectors and married aspiring novelist Brody Brady.
Fast forward one year and Roisin’s honeymoon is well and truly over. Brody has become her reclusive, freeloading lodger whilst he pens his masterpiece and she walks on eggshells.
Working in the Council Planning office, Roisin dreams to escape the mundanity of her life. Her true passions are cooking and entertaining her family and friends but she lacks the confidence to take it any further. When a charity supper club is suggested by best friends Jools and Richard, Roisin has no choice and is reluctantly swept along to be head chef for the fundraiser.
This is a charming and engaging tale. In places it was a bit slow but the great cast of characters made up for that. The plot was a bit predictable but as this was a new author to me I found it quite reassuring. A feel-good book that is easy to fit into a lazy afternoon and would make for a great holiday read.
Rating: 4/5
July 25, 2022
Originally published here: https://joyfulantidotes.com/2022/07/2...
The Sandycove Supper Club came into my life at the right time. I’m after getting back into romance books. Besides the comfort of reading a nice story, I’ve found that many of these books go beyond the surface of a simple love story.
This book made me cry. It was so uplifting and full of home. Many of us are afraid of change. It means we stand still, accepting the less-than-pleasant things that life has thrown at us because we think we deserve them, that we are not smart/talented/string enough to shape our lives the way we want. But there is always hope and something better around the corner of darker days. Always remember this.
The story itself was just wonderful, albeit a bit predictable. Even if I knew what would happen in the end, I enjoyed the journey of getting there. All the characters were great. Even if they weren’t so likeable, the added to the story. I also couldn’t help having a soft spot for Roisin.
The Sandycove Supper Club came into my life at the right time. I’m after getting back into romance books. Besides the comfort of reading a nice story, I’ve found that many of these books go beyond the surface of a simple love story.
This book made me cry. It was so uplifting and full of home. Many of us are afraid of change. It means we stand still, accepting the less-than-pleasant things that life has thrown at us because we think we deserve them, that we are not smart/talented/string enough to shape our lives the way we want. But there is always hope and something better around the corner of darker days. Always remember this.
The story itself was just wonderful, albeit a bit predictable. Even if I knew what would happen in the end, I enjoyed the journey of getting there. All the characters were great. Even if they weren’t so likeable, the added to the story. I also couldn’t help having a soft spot for Roisin.
Read
June 29, 2022This book was cute, if a little slow at times, but the quirky albeit somewhat random cast of supporting characters — from Saoirse to Fyodor the hamster — keep things interesting with pops of humor throughout. I strongly disliked several of the somewhat main characters (ahem Brody and Ross) but I was happy with the endings for all the Supperclub hosts and enjoyed the little menus at the start of several chapters. The plot was fairly predictable but in a mostly comforting manner. Honestly, there was only really one thing that actually bothered me (other than the annoying male characters who could have been less glaringly bad but who I put up with because they served a purpose plot-wise) —the choice in title. I would have expected the supper club referenced in the title to share the same name as the book's title, especially since Little Eden Supper Club seems to convey similar cute small town energy. Curious if the author ever considered changing the book's title to that...
November 29, 2022
Insert eye roll…
I believed the hype. Was so disappointed. I hate being negative about someone’s creation…but this was so syrupy sweet and had me yelling at the lead character throughout. There was nothing uplifting about it. It was annoying and frustrating.
I will say that the author wrote a somewhat interesting story that had me interested in the beginning. It just became so muddled in bad rom-com platitudes.
Spoilers: of all the women characters there was only ONE who wasn’t; angry, or evil, or a doormat. Until the very end of course when everyone finds themselves. 🙄
Darn. I really was looking forward to light and inspiring. Instead it just had me shaking my head at all the depressing female characters.
I believed the hype. Was so disappointed. I hate being negative about someone’s creation…but this was so syrupy sweet and had me yelling at the lead character throughout. There was nothing uplifting about it. It was annoying and frustrating.
I will say that the author wrote a somewhat interesting story that had me interested in the beginning. It just became so muddled in bad rom-com platitudes.
Spoilers: of all the women characters there was only ONE who wasn’t; angry, or evil, or a doormat. Until the very end of course when everyone finds themselves. 🙄
Darn. I really was looking forward to light and inspiring. Instead it just had me shaking my head at all the depressing female characters.
July 26, 2022
My feelings about this book are a little mixed. There were many characters that I really loved. Harry came across as a very old 72 year old, but the kindest man who would never intentionally do anyone any harm. I also loved Jools and her brother Paddy, the best friends a girl could ask for.
There were, however, also characters that I really didn't like, like Soirse, Brody and Anna. I understood the important role these characters played in Roisin's story, but I still didn't like them one bit and I didn't like who Roisin was around these people for the majority of the book.
Overall it was a heartwarming story to read and one I would recommend.
There were, however, also characters that I really didn't like, like Soirse, Brody and Anna. I understood the important role these characters played in Roisin's story, but I still didn't like them one bit and I didn't like who Roisin was around these people for the majority of the book.
Overall it was a heartwarming story to read and one I would recommend.
August 3, 2023
love this author and this book - with reservations…
O’Gorman’s story is so bright and full of hope - with so many happy endings! But, it disappoints me that her leading lady is finally together with the love of her life, but has ‘gone off’ marriage. I don’t understand that - SPOILER ALERT - she spent a year married to someone who was OH SO wrong for her, yet after a year with the guy she’s been in love with for YEARS she isn’t interested in marrying him? That’s just weird to me. Plus, like every book written in the past 3-5 years, there is the requisite gay friend. Does everyone have a gay bestie? Really?
O’Gorman’s story is so bright and full of hope - with so many happy endings! But, it disappoints me that her leading lady is finally together with the love of her life, but has ‘gone off’ marriage. I don’t understand that - SPOILER ALERT - she spent a year married to someone who was OH SO wrong for her, yet after a year with the guy she’s been in love with for YEARS she isn’t interested in marrying him? That’s just weird to me. Plus, like every book written in the past 3-5 years, there is the requisite gay friend. Does everyone have a gay bestie? Really?
July 12, 2022
This book's setting is what really kept me reading. Sandycove was a place that really kept me intrigued.
The characters, all-in-all, had me interested in their lives and the outcome.
The reason this has three stars is because, unfortunately, it was a bit slow for me. There were times when I really had to force myself to keep going... And then I would end up getting into it again. It was a bit of a cycle.
This author has been one that I've been following lately, and I'm eager to read more of her work.
The characters, all-in-all, had me interested in their lives and the outcome.
The reason this has three stars is because, unfortunately, it was a bit slow for me. There were times when I really had to force myself to keep going... And then I would end up getting into it again. It was a bit of a cycle.
This author has been one that I've been following lately, and I'm eager to read more of her work.
June 1, 2024
An enjoyable listen/read. A little annoying because of two particular characters but still enjoyable.
Audio was very good but I would not say great, the reason being that while the narrator was very pleasant to listen to, and did a good job, there was no change in voices for the different characters, which is something I thing always brings an audible book to a higher level.
I have read a number of O'Gorman's books and have given them 4 or 5 stars. I look forward to the other books in the Sandycove series
Audio was very good but I would not say great, the reason being that while the narrator was very pleasant to listen to, and did a good job, there was no change in voices for the different characters, which is something I thing always brings an audible book to a higher level.
I have read a number of O'Gorman's books and have given them 4 or 5 stars. I look forward to the other books in the Sandycove series
June 23, 2022
Such a lovely heartwarming book. I love the story, loved it’s gentle warmth and how good really does bring people together. Rosian married Brody at speed and is now repenting at her leisure except she doesn’t quite know it. She’s given him a year to write his book and is ticking off the says until her married life can start.
Her friends coerce her to start a Saturday night supper club then showcase her cooking skills.
Her friends coerce her to start a Saturday night supper club then showcase her cooking skills.
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