This is such a stunning well written novel that truly carried my heart away to Ireland where I never missed a beat of its identifiable tune! This is a story about relationships that are initially broken, quenched, misunderstood and mishandled. But eventually the natural ways and charm of this island and its people captured the heroine’s heart and helped her through some trying times.
The quote I first read on this novel in the blurb intrigued me. It really says a lot about the bones or notes of this story. There’s a mystery tied up in this beautiful gift from a grandmother to her grand-daughter. ‘Take the key, my pet. I can’t ever go back. The last letter I had from Ireland was clear about that. But one day you may need a safe haven, and it’s the one thing I can give you. Ireland is in your blood, it will keep you safe.’
Of course, any novel set in Ireland gets my attention and this one is very special and profoundly moving with its wonderful brush strokes of creative insight on the Irish heart and how this island’s natural beauty transforms, restores and equips those with its blood in their veins. There is such a sense of ancient magic, mystery and culture that continues to be passed down through many generations. Something I can deeply I relate to. And Ms O’Shea has captured the spirit of the place and its power to heal. We see this through Grace, a woman who has been married to a wealthy businessman named Graham who does not treat her as an equal. He only seems to want to possess or control her. As a result, her self-worth and identity have faded into the background. Until the day she has courage to secretly pack up and flee with her daughter Olivia from England with no warning. Her initial thought is to go to her mother’s but then she realises it would be the first place her husband would look, so she runs off to Ireland with a key given to her on her wedding day by her grandmother. Did Grandma Cailtin realise one day Grace would need this little cottage? It appears her grandmother and others did not like her husband and rightfully so. But at the moment when she decides enough is enough, she remembers her grandmother’s words and decides Ireland is her best choice to hide away. Her grandpa’s cottage may just be the ‘safe haven’ she needs. And besides. as her grandmother once stated, ‘Ireland in in her blood.’
When Grace arrives in Ireland to a simpler existence, it is quite a cultural shock. After being used to the comforts of the rich, due to her husband’s wealth, the Irish living conditions are quite a change. But that does not worry her and she knows she can adjust, for she came from humble beginnings. When she meets the local builder, Sean, who gives her a lift to her destination, he forewarns her she might not want to move into her grandfather’s home just yet. When she sees how derelict it is, she understands what he means. She has a key to house that has no door now! She realises she must stay in another accommodation and Sean introduces her to a local shop lady with a room. But there is a time limit of how long she can stay, since it has been prebooked for another. Once settling in, she looks for work and a surprise job comes up. Everything begins to change for Grace and Olivia. Ireland’s redemptive qualities begin to change and comfort her—but there is always a touch a fear in the back of her mind she will be found by her husband.
What follows is a tumultuous journey but this woman’s courage grows, being away from the negative influences that took so much from her. She meets some wonderful people in the town. One character I particularly adored: an older gentleman named Noel. He has moved back to the area he grew up in, after being away for a number of years. His story is a fascinating one. With his unexpected friendship and support, Grace reclaims the present. Other wonderful towns folk are added to her life. Grace and little Olivia now are surrounded by loving, caring people. This attention helps them both to blossom. Sean, too, makes quite an impression on Grace and her daughter. Grace is awakened to a better life and the possibility of a happy fulfilling future.
There are some nail biting encounters with the past (as you’d expect). Secrets are unveiled and surprising truths erupt, plus a few unexpected twists that expose true natures. And although there are some frightening events, the ending brilliantly pulls everything together to provide a fulfilling conclusion. Ms. O’Shea threw some ‘hefty stumbling blocks’ in Grace’s path but showed us ‘her underlying strength of character.’ It was an emotional journey I won’t forget and yes, I closed the book with a ‘sigh of satisfaction!’ I loved this novel and cannot wait to read more of this author’s works! Very happy. 5 Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Thanks to Bookouture and Netgalley for my review copy.
