Mein einziger Wunsch bist du

by Jen Gilroy

Manchmal ist dein Happy End nur einen Wunsch entfernt ...

Die 35-jährige Annie glaubt nicht mehr an das, woran die Einheimischen von Irish Falls glauben: dass an diesem idyllischen Ort Wünsche wahr werden. Das ganze Jahr über hängen die Bewohner und Touristen dort kleine Briefe mit ihren größten Sehnsüchten an einen Wunschbaum. Doch Annies Traum ist vor vielen Jahren mit einem lauten Knall geplatzt. Niemand weiß von ihrem großen Talent. Bis der attraktive Songwriter Seth nach Irish Falls kommt, um den lokalen Radiosender wiederzubeleben und Annie ihr Geheimnis entlockt. Er möchte sie dabei unterstützen, ihren Lebenstraum weiterzuverfolgen, aber Annie hat sich geschworen, nie wieder auf die Versprechungen eines Mannes hereinzufallen. Doch je mehr Zeit sie mit Seth verbringt, desto mehr erkennt sie, dass sie sich all die Jahre möglicherweise das Falsche gewünscht hat …

Genres: Romance, Contemporary Romance

464 pages, Paperback

First published October 9, 2019

About the author

I write sweet romance and uplifting historical women’s fiction—warm, feel-good stories to bring readers’ hearts home.

A Romance Writers of America® Golden Heart® finalist and shortlisted for the Romantic Novelists’ Association Joan Hessayon award, I live in small-town Ontario, Canada with my husband, daughter and floppy-eared rescue hound.

I love reading, ice cream, ballet and paddling my purple kayak.

Visit me online at www.jengilroy.com

Reviews

[DJ Sakata · Rating 5 out of 5]

My Rating:

4.5

Favorite Quotes:

“He’s got a face and body to match his voice, too. The word at yoga last night was he sent Lisa Drysdale into a hot flash when she bumped into him in the produce aisle at Nolan’s grocery. I can sure see why.” Holly grinned and fanned herself with a potholder.

“We don’t know for sure, but Duncan might have prostate cancer… Duncan doesn’t want anybody to know because he’s a man and, well . . .” Her cheeks went red. “He’d be uncomfortable with people, family even, talking about his . . . equipment.”

Hannah gave him a hopeful look, mixed with the kind of face Seth remembered Dylan making a few years back. Like adults were a different species and teenagers only tolerated them because they were a source of food, money, and rides to wherever the kid wanted to go.

My dad wouldn’t have wanted me to give up on a dream. He always told us to reach for the stars. Even if you didn’t get there, he said you had to try and maybe you’d catch the moon instead.

“The new bank manager seemed interested.” “Please. Although I might be able to overlook his Star Trek obsession, he wears white socks with brown sandals. That should be illegal.”


My Review:

Jen Gilroy is an expert storyteller, she quickly drew me into her small-town tale of contemporary romance with flawed yet endearing characters, relevant and compelling family issues, and interesting storylines. While I didn’t enjoy living in the tiny and inbred rural hamlet of my youth, I do seem to enjoy reading books featuring small-towns, albeit these small towns are far more entertaining and genteel than the harsh, backward, and uptight landscape of my childhood memories. Nor did it have a rich heritage or an imaginative draw like an epic and magical wishing tree. Ms. Gilroy’s engaging writing style and interesting story threads tapped all the feels and kept my curiosity primed while alternating between squeezing my coronary muscle and putting an amused smile on my face. I’m hoping this is just the start of a new series with more tales to come.

[Sina & Ilona Glimmerfee · Rating 3 out of 5]

Annies Träume von einer Musikkarriere sind vor Jahren gescheitert. Schwanger und desillusioniert ist sie damals in ihre Heimatstadt zurückgekehrt. Viele Jahre später zieht nun der Erbe des lokalen Radiosenders in die Stadt. Seth ist Songwriter und erkennt das Talent in Annie, aber ist Annie mutig genug noch einmal nach den Sternen zu greifen?

Ihr habt hier eine süße Kleinstadt in den USA, die zusammenhält. Ganz besonders die Familie von Annie ist ein eingeschworenes Team. Diese Reihe hat alle Faktoren um sich wirklich einzuleben und es klappt auch gut, auch wenn für mich leider nicht der Zauber übergesprungen ist. Das Buch liest sich flüssig weg, aber es war auch nicht ganz so auf der Wohlfühl-Seite wie ich erhofft hatte. Es geht viel um Verlust und Vergangenheit. (Krebs ist auch ein Thema im Hintergrund) Die Stimmung des Romans ist nicht so locker-leicht wie ich erwartet hatte und ich hatte mir auch ein wenig mehr Magie gewünscht, wenn schon ein Wunschbaum das Zentrum des Ortes ist.

Es gibt keine Spannungskurve und plätschert vor sich angenehm hin. Wenn man einen ruhigeren Roman sucht - Hier findet man ihn. Mir war es etwas zu ruhig und man hätte vermutlich locker 100 Seiten zusammenstreichen können.

Den Konflikt am Ende mochte ich nicht und fand ihn auch etwas überdramatisiert.

Insgesamt habe ich es nicht ungern gelesen, werde aber wohl nicht noch einmal nach Irish Falls zurückkehren.


- Dieses Buch wurde mir vom Verlag als rezensionsexemplar zur Verfügung gestellt -

[Linda Zagon · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow! Jen Gilroy, Author of "The Wishing Tree in Irish Falls" takes us on an emotional, captivating, intense, thought-provoking journey. This is also a journey of self-growth, self -worth, second chances, coming of age, forgiveness, love, and hope. The Genres for this book are Fiction, Women's Fiction, and Romance. I love the way Jen Gilroy vividly stresses and describes music, singing and playing instruments in this story. The story takes place in the Adirondacks. In this town is a tree that everyone makes wishes on, known as "The Wishing Tree in Irish Falls" The author describes her characters as complex and complicated. Of course, there are cats and a dog, with their loveable personalities.

Annie  Quinn and her daughter have settled in this town. Ann has the support of her sisters and her Mom and works in the Bakery. Annie has put all wishes and dreams of being a professional singer in the background, after being traumatically hurt many years ago.

Seth Taggart, a single Dad that is estranged from his son is brought to the area after inheriting a radio station from a dear relative.  His original roots are L.A. where he is a songwriter and plays the guitar. Seth has to promise to stay in town for 6 months, to be able to sell the station.

Can dreams and wishes come true? What makes a home? I love the way Jen Gilroy brings up the importance of family, friends, neighbors, second chances, forgiveness, love and hope. I would highly recommend this thought-provoking and memorable novel.

[Randi (randi_reads) · Rating 4 out of 5]

My first book by Jen Gilroy and I thought it was a sweet, warm, and emotional small-town romance. Seth arrives in Irish Falls, because his uncle, Jake, has passed away and left him the small radio station. He meets Annie and you can feel the instant chemistry between them. Annie is 35 years old with a sixteen year old daughter. Seth has a son in college and an ex-wife. Both have issues to deal with--Seth with his son and Annie with her issues of how she got pregnant and by whom. Seth wasn't looking for love or even staying in Irish Falls, but it was apparent that his connection with Annie has a way of changing his mind.
This was such a heartwarming romance. All the secondary characters were wonderful and added to the story. I will definitely be reading more by this author.
Thank you to Suzy (Suzyapprovedbooktours), Jen Gilroy and Soul Mate Publishing for an arc in exchange for my honest review.

[Booksandchinooks (Laurie) · Rating 4 out of 5]

What a beautiful story! This book takes places in an idyllic town with a wishing tree. Annie helps run the town bakery with her family and is busy raising her teen daughter as a single mother. When Annie became pregnant she gave up her college dreams and dreams of becoming a singer/songwriter and returned to her home town. As her daughter nears college age Annie starts to question what she will do with her life once her daughter leaves. The owner of the small local radio station has recently passed away and he has left it to Seth, a LA music executive. Seth plans to sell the station and leave town as soon as he can. Things begin to change once he starts to build relationships with the local residents, especially Annie. Both of them have issues from their past and uncertain futures. As their relationship strengthens will they be able to help each other? This story is beautifully written with great characters. This is my first book by this author and I found it really charming.

[Anita Kushwaha · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'm writing this review in the midst of the Covid-19 pandemic. I mention it because this is the book that eased me back into reading after I had completely lost focus. I'm a huge fan of Jen Gilroy's work and I gravitated toward her latest because with all the uncertainty in the world, I was craving escape and comfort. This book, about family, love, small-town life, and second chances was just what I needed. The story is charming, relatable, full of close relationships, and Gilroy's writing is flawless, as ever. I can't wait for the sequel scheduled for release in September 2020! When you read this, make sure you have baked goods close by, trust me you'll crave them!

[Kayla · Rating 4 out of 5]

This story gives the reader hope. Hope in returning home. Hope in reconnecting with family. Hope in following your dreams. Hope in falling in love. A feel good read!

[Sue · Rating 4 out of 5]

Annie lives in upstate New York in the small town of Irish Falls in the Adirondack Mountain area. She lives with Hannah, her teenage daughter and the rest of her family also lives in town - her mom, step-dad, brother and sisters all live in Irish Falls and they all work at the family bakery. Annie tries to be content in her small town but as her 16 year old daughter wants to go to Nashville and try to make a success in the music industry, Annie is reminded of her move to Nashville years before. She tried to break into the music industry but she came home pregnant and defeated with secrets that she never shared with her family. After her return home, she decided that small town life was the best for her future and buried her dreams. One day at the bakery, Seth shows up. He is a famous song writer from LA and has come to Irish Springs to sell the radio station that his long lost uncle had left for him. Seth is burnt out and his reputation is in shatters due to his business partner so maybe a little time in a small town are just what he needs. When Seth finds out that he has to stay in town and run the radio station for 6 months he is at first very unhappy but then decides that it will do him good to be out of LA. As he spends more time with Annie and her family, he realizes that he might have been chasing the wrong life and as his relationship with Annie intensifies, he tries to help her live her dream. Will it work for Seth and Annie - will they get their happily ever after or are their lives just too different to let them find happiness together.

This is a beautifully written story about friendship and love and family and community. Not only were Annie and Seth fantastic characters but all of the supporting characters were easy to like. This is my first book by this author but it certainly won't be my last.

Thanks to the publisher for a copy of this book to read and review. All opinions are my own.

[Gmr · Rating 4 out of 5]

Something I've always liked about this author's writing is her ability to pen a story that draws you in from the start, encircling you with small town charm. They invite you in for a spell while they work their magic, and though the stories are more life than fantasy driven, it doesn't mean that the characters wishes can't come true. Take today's story...

From the moment I cracked the cover, I already felt like I had known Annie and her sister for years. You could feel their connection, their familiarity with the town and the people that call it home, making you a part of that community in an instant. When the tall, dark, and handsome stranger strides in, you can feel your own heart race for a moment, while understanding that his real purpose there was for something more than the "zing" reaction caused...yet you're content in the knowledge that though semi-tabled, it is a topic of conversation that will be pursued (*giggle*). As things progress and the potential for changes builds, you can't help but wonder what the future will bring for them all, and yet you're still so consumed with the present, you simply can't let it go.

In the end, I adored the charming setting of Irish Falls, and the magic that this little town holds not only in natural beauty, but the beating hearts within its boundaries. There is much to learn regarding second chances, following dreams, and letting others into your heart, and many of those lessons can be carried right off the page into the real world...but then again, why hurry back? 😉


**ecopy received for review; opinions are my own

[Dawnny · Rating 5 out of 5]

Annie is a single mother who has given up her dreams of music. She returns to her hometown in the Adirondacks New York. The town has a tree that everyone calls The Wishing Tree In Irish Falls. I loved that the title fit so well into the story. Everyone believes in the magic of this tree and and places wishes on it. But Annie is all done with wishing. Then there is Seth, a single father and songwriter that comes to town when he inherits a radio station. I feel deep into this story and liked the characters. I loved that the setting was in the Adirondacks being from upstate New York myself. This was an emotional yet joyful story of broken hearts, family and having dreams. I loved it. This was my first time reading this author. I'm charmed and loved everything about it. I recommend it as a book club selection as it brings to much to discuss.

Dawnny-BookGypsy
Novels N Latte
Hudson Valley NY

[Nursebookie · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Wishing Tree in Irish Falls is an emotional and beautifully written story about finding love in the most unexpected place. Seth Taggart, an LA Music Executive, inherits a small radio station in Irish Falls. First thing he tries to do is to sell the station to the first bidder! But a small contingency in the will prevents exactly that from happening. Seth must stick around for 6 months before anything can be done with the station. Jen Gilroy masterfully took me in this amazing small town journey and I fell in love with this charming story and its characters. If you are looking for that feel good read I have the book for you!

[Lisa · Rating 4 out of 5]

"Each wish is a story, part of a beginning, a middle, or an end. People wish for their hopes and dreams. Some wishes are happy, others are sad." Oh, how I loved this wonderful, sweet, romantic, fun story! It had me hooked from the first page & even though it was a bit predictable it left me feeling warm & fuzzy! It reads like a wonderful Hallmark movie...an easy, comfortable & delicious read with great characters & love story! Can't wait to read more of Gilroy's books! Thank you so much @suzyapprovedbooktours @jen.gilroyauthor & @soulmatepublishing!

[Joyce Stewart Reviews · Rating 5 out of 5]

Author : Jen Gilroy
The Wishing Tree in Irish Falls
250 pages
Publication date: October 9, 2019

Description:
Sometimes happily ever after is only a wish away . . .There’s a wishing tree in Irish Falls. The bits of paper tied to its gnarled branches hold the hopes and dreams of everyone in town . . . except Annie Quinn.Single mom Annie has spent years rebuilding her life and trying not to have regrets. After giving up her dream of music stardom, she returned to her Adirondack hometown—and convinced herself she’s content with a simpler life.The last thing she needs is a man to remind her of the heartbreak she left behind.
A divorced dad, Seth Taggart used to be a successful LA songwriter. But now his reputation is in tatters, he’s burnt-out, and estranged from his adult son. Inheriting a small-town radio station just might be the do-over he needs. Although he always planned to go back to LA, when working with Annie turns into sharing music and more, Seth realizes second chances—and home—are where he least expects.
📘{My thoughts}📘
Wow , Jen Gilroy did an amazing job of bringing Irish Falls and all of the characters to life. I can’t say enough good things about this emotional heartwarming
story.This story was quick to draw my attention with it's in depth details of what each character is feeling as the setting is laid out. I LOVED this book. I started and finished it all in just a few hours. The characters are well developed and you will fall in love with them all. I was instantly emotionally invested in all of the characters . I felt as if I knew the characters personally. There's so much to love about this book: small town setting, the vibrant descriptions, the engaging characters and of course the food just to name a few.
I won't give away the plot, but suffice to say this is a story you won't soon forget.If you enjoy a well-written, small town second chance romance, you will surely love this book.
I really hope this author turns this into a series.This is the first time I've read a book by this author, and I really enjoyed it. Totally recommend! As always if you like the book you read please take the time to leave a review for the author in places like goodreads & Amazon. It does not have to be long. Just a few sentences saying you liked the book will do. Authors really appreciate every review they get !
*******Disclosure*******
I received a digital copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. I was not required to write a positive review nor was I compensated in any other way. All opinions I have expressed are my own.
*************************
#JenGilroy
#TheWishingTreeinIrishFalls
#Smalltownromance
#secondchances

[Reena G · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the first book I have read by Jen Gilroy and boy I am so glad I read it. Its is such a sweet warm story set in a small town called Irish Falls in Upstate New York. There is a wishing tree where people tie strings of paper in hopes that their wishes come true. The author talks about the Quinn family and their connections which are very relatable. This is just the right kind of story one can read during the pandemic we are going through. The story of hope, forgiveness and second chances and most of all wishes and dreams coming true. Thank you Jen Gilroy for your giveaway and this beautiful story which warmed my heart. I am looking forward to reading more books by you.

[Alva · Rating 4 out of 5]

At a time when I needed to read a gentle romance, along came The Wishing Tree in Irish Falls. A story with lovely life messages, a story telling us that all is never completely lost. We learn about sibling love and support, romantic love, parental love, community love, separation and acceptance. Doubts and fears always stand in the way of adventure, including adventures of the heart. Annie is sceptical, afraid and insecure. It takes a small town to convince her to follow her dream and her heart. This is a delicate engaging story about taking a leap or two.

[Lynn · Rating 5 out of 5]

A lovely story!! I really enjoyed this book about second chances, and learning to trust again! Will definitely be waiting for the next book in the series by this talented author.

[Molly Jaber (Audiobooks And Sweet Tea) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Jen Gilroy’s talent shines bright with this amazing story! i was instantly transported to the heart of the story and fell in love with each of the characters, the setting and the message behind the story. Being able to feel each emotion that the characters had was amazing!

I absolutely loved Seth’s character. I loved the way he was chiseled and loved the way he fit into the story. Watching him interact with Annie was a beautiful experience. And, seeing Annie with her daughter Hannah, it reminded me of a time when I was a single mom. Seth, Annie and all of the Irish Falls community truly gripped me and made me a part of their lives!

Gilroy has a beautiful talent that should not be missed by anyone! She has a knack for making you feel as if the story was written just for you. Each page turn brings you something new within the story. Playing out like a movie on the big screen, this story of second chances, finding a true love in an unexpected time and place, and the value of what family truly means, this story will steal your heart instantly. I highly recommend this book with two thumbs up, hats off, and most definitely 4.5 stars!

*I received a complimentary copy of this book from Publisher and was under no obligation to post a review, positive or negative.*

[Really Into This · Rating 5 out of 5]

Melissa contributed this review to Really Into This

Check out all of our reviews at https://reallyintothis.com
Happy Reading, friends!

Thank you Suzy Approved Book Tours for our gifted review copy.
🍁
My mom @nannarino is back with a review for The Wishing Tree in Irish Falls by @jen.gilroyauthor This is a heartwarming & cozy romantic read.
💗
This is a story about coming home, getting a second chance & what makes a family.
🌳
I love a small town setting. You can’t get any secrets past anyone in a town like Irish Falls. Growing up in a small town, I know exactly what that’s like. Irish Falls is definitely a community I connect with. The residents support each other.
🥰
I especially love all the side characters. Each person has a purpose and helps round out the story.
🔥
While this is a romance, it’s not explicit all. More fade to black. So if steam isn’t your thing, definitely check this out. It’s sweet, but not sappy. Honestly, it’s a great love story with a lot of heart and all the cozy feelings.
⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ 💫
This book is out now & full synopsis in the comments.

[Buchstabenschloss · Rating 5 out of 5]

In Irish Falls, einer kleinen idyllischen Stadt, gibt es einen Wunschbaum. Zu diesem pilgern zahlreiche Touristen und auch Einheimische um ihre Wünsche an den Baum zu hängen. Obwohl so viele Menschen auf ein Wunder warten, glaubt Annie an keine Wunder und ist auch gegenüber dem Baum skeptisch. Ihr Traum aus Mädchentagen, als Sängerin groß rauszukommen, hat ein einziger Mann zunichte gemacht. Doch ihre Stimme ist nach wie vor wunderschön. Seth, der bedingt durch einen Trauerfall und seinem Erbe nach Irish Falls kommt, erkennt das Potential in ihrer Stimme. Aber nicht nur das entdeckt er in Annie. Denn die Beiden kommen sich näher und finden über die Musik zueinander.

Das Cover ist idyllisch und wunderschön. Es ist den Covern aus der ersten Reihe der Autorin sehr ähnlich und reiht sich somit schön ein. Der Schreibstil der Autorin ist locker und leicht. Sie hat ein Talent für Ortbeschreibungen, die einen heimisch fühlen lassen. Darüber hinaus versteht es die Autorin Emotionen und Gefühle zu transportieren ohne zu ausschweifend zu werden. Für mich bringt sie genau die richtige Portion Emotionen und Humor rüber.

Annie ist eine alleinerziehende Mutter, die gemeinsam mit ihrer Schwester eine Bäckerei leitet. Sie fühlt sich wohl und genießt ihr Leben, so wie es ist. Sie ist fürsorglich und unglaublich menschennah. Seth ist ein Großstadt-Typ, der seinen Sohn allein groß gezogen hat. Er wird von einigen Selbstzweifeln geplagt, da ihn sein Geschäftspartner betrogen und belogen hat. Sein Ruf in der Musikbranche ist aktuell nicht sonderlich gut, sodass er einwilligt fürs Erste in Irish Falls zu bleiben, damit in LA Gras über die Sache wachsen kann.

Die Charaktere sind sehr authentisch und sympathisch. Es gibt wirklich Niemanden, den man nicht in Irish Falls in sein Herz schließt. Besonders gut gefällt mir die Großfamilie von Annie. Sie bringen eine einzigartige Dynamik in die Geschichte, weil sie gefühlt überall ihre Finger im Spiel haben und stets auf dem neusten Stand sind. So ist das eben auf dem Dorf: Jeder weiß alles über einen und manchmal wissen die Menschen sogar mehr über einen als man selbst weißt.

Das Buch hat mir wirklich gut gefallen. Es gefällt mir sogar besser als die erste Reihe der Autorin. Die Geschichte handelt von zwei Menschen, die eine zweite Chance in ihrem Leben erhalten. Vor allem zeigt die Geschichte, dass man an seinen Wünschen festhalten sollte, denn der Wunsch oder der Traum könnte sich eventuell doch erfüllen. Aber es muss nicht immer so sein, wie man gedacht hat. Es gibt schließlich viele Wege, die zum Ziel führen. Und es gibt auch andere Varianten eines Wunsches, die ebenfalls erfüllend sein können.

Das Thema Musik hat mir gut gefallen. Ich mochte den Kleinstadt-Radiosender, der die Einwohner erreicht und ihnen Lebensfreude vermittelt. Darüber hinaus wird auch das knallharte Geschäft der Musikbranche thematisiert. Die Autorin geht hier zwar nicht tief in das Thema rein, aber es wird deutlich, dass es ein hartes Geschäft ist und dass nicht jeder Fuß in dieser Branche fasst. Vor allem aber zeigt die Geschichte, dass man an seinen Prinzipien festhalten sollte. Dies wird besonders durch Annie ersichtlich. Das hat mir besonders gut gefallen, denn Annie ist eben nicht bereit über Leichen zu gehen. Sie weiß, was sie will und versucht ihren Platz so zu finden, wie es für sie und niemand anderen passt.

Diese Geschichte ist eine leichte sommerliche Geschichte, die sich gut lesen lässt und vor allem berührt. Mich konnte diese Geschichte überzeugen, sodass ich sie als klare Leseempfehlung deklarieren kann.

[Karina · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Wishing Tree in Irish Falls by Jen Gilroy is a story based in a small town in upstate NY. Jen has written a wonderful story which drew me right in, making me forget everything else and did not let me go until I turned the last page. I loved how the author described everything so vividly I was able to visualize and fee everything that was going on. This is very well written has well developed and likable characters that you can’t help but fall in love with. I felt like I was right there in Irish Falls with the characters. This is a very emotional and enjoyable story full of second chances, love, friendship and wonderful characters. I laughed I cried and I felt all the emotions of this book. The Wishing Tree in Irish Falls is one of those books you read, savor and read again.

[Jodena Pysher · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is one of the most sweetest books I have read all year. Jen had me turning the pages quickly. I connected and loved the characters in this book. I will definitely read again and suggest to anyone who would love a light and cozy read!! Thank you to Suzy Approved Book Tours and Jen Gilroy for letting me be a part of this tour!

[abdulia ortiz-perez · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received this free book from the publisher for honest review.

4.5 stars ⭐ ⭐⭐ ⭐🌠

This is the first time reading from this author.

I really could say that this was great one. I love everything about this book. The words was just like yes give me more. I love the cover even more.

What a great read! This had me hooked from the beginning. The sitting, theme, and the Characters had me pulled so in. Everything was well put together and it was just perfect. This novel did just that to me.
Highly recommend everybody get this book and read it. Its so good!
Can't wait for next book.

[LeseHuhn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Mein einziger Wunsch bist du

von Jen Gilroy

erschienen im Penguin Verlag am 11. Juli 2022

Taschenbuch 464 Seiten

Auftakt der romantischen Irish-Falls-Serie

Klappentext

Manchmal ist dein Happy End nur einen Wunsch entfernt

Die 35-jährige Annie glaubt schon lange nicht mehr an das, woran die Einheimischen von Irish Falls glauben: dass an diesem idyllischen Ort Wünsche wahr werden. Das ganze Jahr über hängen die Bewohner und Touristen dort kleine Briefe mit ihren größten Sehnsüchten an einen Wunschbaum. Doch Annies Traum ist vor vielen Jahren mit einem lauten Knall geplatzt. Niemand weiß von ihrem großen Talent. Bis der attraktive Songwriter Seth nach Irish Falls kommt, um den lokalen Radiosender wiederzubeleben, und Annie ihr Geheimnis entlockt. Er möchte sie dabei unterstützen, ihren Lebenstraum weiterzuverfolgen, aber Annie hat sich geschworen, nie wieder auf die Versprechungen eines Mannes hereinzufallen. Doch je mehr Zeit sie mit Seth verbringt, desto mehr erkennt sie, dass sie sich all die Jahre möglicherweise das Falsche gewünscht hat ...

Meine Meinung

Schon anhand des Covers und des Klappentextes erahnt man, dass Wünsche nicht immer punktgenau erfüllt werden können, aber auch mit den Ablegern kann man mehr als glücklich werden. Die Autorin Jen Gilroy erzählt die fiktive Geschichte von Annie und Seth mit viel Ruhe, leisen Emotionen und ganz viel Romantik. Annie und Seth kommen beide mehr oder weniger aus dem Musikbusiness, haben beide jeweils ein Kind und wurde beide von ihrer ersten großen Liebe sehr enttäuscht. Und beide haben mit ihrer Vergangenheit zu kämpfen. Annie hat "Glück", ihre große Familie und Jake haben sie aufgefangen. In Irish Falls konnte sie einen neuen Weg einschlagen, aber die Vergangenheit und ihr Traum von der großen Bühne schlummern noch tief in ihr. Seth hat seinen Sohn großgezogen und gleichzeitig versucht, im Musikgeschäft Fuß zu fassen, beides ist ihm entglitten. In Irish Falls wird er von einer Vergangenheit eingeholt, die er so nicht auf seiner Agenda hatte und dann ist da noch die bezaubernde Annie.

Jen Gilroy schafft es mit leisen Tönen und wenig Emotionen, dass Irish Falls sich mit Annie und Seth einen Platz in meinem Herzen suchen. Die Beschreibungen vom Ort und den Bewohnern und Annies Familie sind sehr authentisch. Und auch die vierbeinigen Gesellen ziehen in mein Herz ein.

Fazit

Mein einziger Wunsch bist du hat mich gut unterhalten, die reiferen Protagonisten haben mich teilhaben lassen an ihren Gesprächen und Gedanken. Irish Falls mit den neugierigen Bewohnern und dem Radiosender wären definitiv einen Besuch wert. Von mir gibt es 4,5 🐥🐥🐥🐥 und eine Leseempfehlung. Wo keine halben Sterne vergeben werden können, runde ich auf. Ich freue mich schon auf ein Wiedersehen in Irish Falls.

[Stephanie (Littlebookpage) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Like a soft fuzzy blanket, The Wishing Tree by Jen Gilroy is a cozy uplifting story full of hope, family, and second chances that wraps you in warmth! Jen Gilroy’s lovely descriptions of the town of Irish Falls and those who live there will immediately draw you into its charm. A story that reminds us romance isn’t always just the love story between two characters, but the dreamy magic of finding your way even when life tries to get the best of you!
I always enjoy finding new authors whose novels leave me waiting for their next and reaching for those they wrote before. Jen Gilroy has written a wonderful feel good book about matters of the heart. Perfect for lovers of women’s fiction, & romance during the holiday season!

[wellreadtraveler · Rating 4 out of 5]

If you’re a fan of Hallmark movies then you will love this sweet story. The Wishing Tree of Irish Falls has everything you could want in a book! The cute little town, descriptions of the yummy treats at the bakery, the innocent girl who catches the eye of the new hot guy in town. Really what else could you want right? I found the book to be very predictable but in a good way. Sometimes you don’t need a book to be complicated and keep you guessing, you just want to feel all warm and fuzzy and fall in love with two characters while they fall in love. Happily ever after does exist!
Annie is a single mom working in the family’s bakery. Living in a small town has its advantages; you know everyone and most days are the same. Annie once dreamed of living in Nashville and having a music career but that was all forgotten when she got pregnant with Hannah. Now her life consists of being a mom, a baker, and temporarily filling in when needed at the local radio station. Annie’s friend and local disc jockey Jake has passed away from cancer, and his quick and sudden death has left a whole in Annie’s heart as well as a deep sadness within the town.
Seth Taggert is Jake’s nephew and has arrived in Irish Falls to settle his estate. His uncle has left his business to him and all he wants to do is get in and prepare to sell it and head back to LA. What he doesn’t know is that Jake has put a clause in his will that Seth must run the radio station for 6 months before he can sell it. Although this wasn’t in his initial plans, he did burn many bridges before he left and he could use time away to let the dust settle and get his good name back. The town of Irish Falls is in morning and really needs the station up and running to give them something to look forward to. Between the town needing him and his new friendship with Annie, Seth feels this town is the right place for right now.
Both Annie and Seth have old wounds that need healing, and the sooner they face their fears the better. They join together to throw a talent show for the town to help get everyone’s spirits up and to formally introduce Seth to everyone. Old dreams will be remembered, new friendships formed, family members will learn forgiveness and two people will slowly fall in love.

[Meine_Buecher · Rating 4 out of 5]

In der idyllischen Kleinstadt Irish Falls gibt es einen alten Wunschbaum, an den Einheimische, aber auch Touristen ihre geheimen Wünsche auf kleinen Briefchen an die Äste hängen. Ihm werden magische Kräfte nachgesagt, doch die 35jährige Annie glaubt nicht mehr an Wunder. Schließlich hat sich ihr großer Wunsch vor vielen Jahren in Schall und Rauch aufgelöst. Annie hat niemandem von ihrem Traum erzählt. Niemand weiß, dass sie mit ihrer wunderbaren Stimme und ihrem Talent, Songtexte zu schreiben, in Nashville groß rauskommen wollte. Doch statt einer super Karriere als Country Star ist sie wieder nach Hause, nach Irish Falls gekommen und arbeitet mit ihren Geschwistern zusammen in der Familien-Bäckerei. Das Einzige, was ihr aus der Zeit damals geblieben ist, ist ihre geliebte Tochter, die sie alleine aufzieht, und die Angst, jemals wieder jemandem - besonders einem Mann - zu vertrauen.
Doch dann taucht Seth aus LA in der Kleinstadt auf, um den lokalen Radiosender seines Onkels zu übernehmen. Sofort ist da dieses besondere Etwas zwischen ihnen. Diese Anziehung, dieses... Vertrauen, das Annie so schwer fällt. Als Seth dann auf Annies Talent aufmerksam wird, gibt er alles daran, sie zu motivieren, ihrer Karriere eine zweite Chance zu geben. Doch dann begeht Seth einen folgenschweren Fehler...

„Mein Einziger Wunsch Bist Du“ ist der erste Teil der Irish-Falls-Reihe von Jen Gilroy. Mir hat ihre vorherige Reihe schon sehr gefallen und auch dieses Buch hat mir einige schöne Lesestunden beschert. Es ist ein Buch über 2 Chancen im Leben. Und über Wünsche, von denen man nicht glaubt, dass sie sich je erfüllen werden..., aber dass es vielleicht eher so ist, dass das Schicksal weiß, dass es der falsche Wunsch ist und sich der Wunsch in abgewandelter Form erfüllen wird, wenn man nur geduldig ist.
Ich mag die unterhaltsame und sehr anschauliche Erzählweise und den flüssigen Schreibstil.
Auch die Charaktere sind authentisch und vor allem sympathisch ausgestaltet. Auch die Familiendynamik ist toll dargestellt.
Ich freue mich schon auf den nächsten Band, indem es laut Original-Reihenfolge um Annies Schwester Tara gehen wird.

[Misty (Reds Romance Reviews) · Rating 5 out of 5]

When Seth Taggart learns that he has inherited a small radio station from his uncle in Irish Falls he immediately puts plans together drop into town, and sell it to the first interested buyer. But his uncle planned for him to pull a stunt like that, and put a contingency in the will. He must stick around town and run the radio station for at least six months, before he can do anything with it, which comes as a big surprise when he shows up to get the keys. The idea of giving up his life in the city for small town living for six months is more than a little unsettling... but once he meets one it's most charming residents he begins to see it's appeal.

He never expected to meet a woman like Annie Quinn in Irish Falls, nor meet a one that would inspire him to reconsider his stance on love, but one look at her and he fell hard!

Between the pages of this delightful little tale readers will meet an unlikely couple that is brought together by their love of music. Seth only meant to stay in town long enough to sell his uncles radio station, but once he is there he begins to remember why he fell for music in the first place. Watching him find his love for music again, and encourage Annie and her daughter to embrace their musical gifts was inspiring and good on my heart. I thoroughly enjoyed the journey this one took me on, I was in the mood for a sweet story that would give me the feels, and this one hit the mark!!

The Wishing Tree in Irish Falls is a touching and sweet small town romance story that is sure leave you singing it's praises... just crack the cover and let it's mesmerizing words steal your attention!

[Nila (digitalcreativepages) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Two broken hearts coming together in Irish Falls, Annie with fear in her who had a wall surrounding her after being hurt and Seth with despair in him who was down on his luck in love and profession. The wishing tree in this town was where everyone wrote down their wishes and tied it to its branches, and they came true. So it was said. And the town believed it and revered the tree. They celebrated its festival too.

My first book by author Jen Gilroy was a poignant read, filled with warmth and joyful cosiness. The setting of the town with its inhabitants made me see the charm of such a place. The writing was descriptive, every scene could be vividly seen. The emotions sparkled in the prose from the glint of tears to the restlessness of the spirit. Pain could be felt, and hope was the light that peeked through.

Characters were real with shades to them. There was a connection that pulled them toward each other and me to them. The author showed me their lives where old was shed and new was forged. Friendship and family were still the gold.

A beautiful immersive read was all I could say when I read the last line of the book.

[Michele (Reads a latte Thrillers) · Rating 5 out of 5]

As someone who lives for thrillers, this book was a completely new genre for me. I've dabbled in romance, but usually only those titles I'm familiar with. When I was given the opportunity to read this book and participate in the Book Tour, I jumped at the chance to try something outside my comfort zone. I'm so pleased with my decision! This book was absolutely adorable and I mean that in the best possible way. From the family bakery set in a quaint upstate New York village, to the handsome stranger that stumbles into town to claim a mystery inheritance, I loved every inch of it.

The story is set in a charming little town where everyone knows your name and your business. When Seth comes to town to settle his "Uncle's" estate, he walk right into Annie's life. Working at her family bakery, Annie is a single mom raising her teen daughter Hannah. Both woman have a voice for country music, but only Hannah is ready to follow her dreams. Annie helps Seth uncover his Uncle Jake's estate, which includes the only radio station in town, and the two begin to form a close bond over music, loss, and finding what matters most in life. If you're a fan of romance, this books is definitely for you. Country music fans will absolutely love it and when it was over, I was left craving Annie's famous cheesecake. This book was as sweet as pie and well worth every page. Check it out!

[Tara · Rating 5 out of 5]

It was cold and grey outside with rain streaming down my windows like mini waterfalls but I had the perfect antidote in my hands – Jen Gilroy’s new book.
Reading The Wishing Tree In Irish Falls is like being wrapped in a fleece blanket and handed a cup of warm hot chocolate while sitting in front of a toasty wood burner with a dog (or cat, if you prefer) snuggled by your side.
It has everything I have come to expect from one of Jen’s books; a lovely small town with a thriving community, the odd eccentric tradition or two, a close-knit family, two complex main characters with challenges to overcome, romance and lots and lots of heart.
By the end of this book I wanted a lot of things - to live in Irish Falls, to make a wish on the wishing tree, to hear Annie sing, eat at Quinn's Bakery, listen to Seth on the radio and pet Dolly the dog. Not once did I remember that this is a work of fiction - and that’s another of Jen’s skills. Setting the scene and making you feel at home is almost as important as her characters.
This is a sweet tale with a sprinkling of passion, just the right amount of drama and perfect happy ending.
What I’m most concerned with now is when I get to read Annie’s sister’s story (who just happens to be called Tara). I hope it’s soon!

With thanks to Jen and Soul Mate Publishing for the ARC in return for my honest review.