Review of 'The Keeper of the Irish Secret' by Susanne O'Leary

Review of 'The Keeper of the Irish Secret' by Susanne O'Leary

Release date: January 25th, 2024

Publisher: Bookouture

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REVIEW

The Keeper of the Irish Secret – Magnolia Manor Book 1 is another fabulous enchanting start to a new series by Susanne O’Leary. I love stories about old houses and old estates and the charm they exude but even more the secrets they harbour and pass on to future generations. If their stones or timber could speak, what stories would they reveal? Susanne O’Leary’s upcoming new series does just that. It brings the Magnolia Manor’s history to the forefront in a most delightful and creative way. Love and mystery are intertwined, making this a perfect fascinating pager turner!

Lily Fleury has come through a difficult divorce after a short marriage and seeks refuge and renewal. She leaves her legal secretary job in Dublin and heads to her grandmother Sylvia’s Manor to soak up the positive vibes and heal her broken heart. What better place to do that but on the breathtaking Irish coast where she connects again with nature and engages once more in her passion for running and cycling. Upon arrival, she discovers the house is in disrepair. But she has a dream: a business she wants to incorporate into the old homestead once renovating it with the help of family and friends. Of course, nothing runs the way expected and her grandmother’s odd behaviour has her worried. What secret is she keeping? We eventually learn what that is and that it is a major problem for Lily’s future plans. But in the meantime, her find in the gatehouse fuels a mission to uncover the truth and her fight for her family’s heritage will take her down some unexpected avenues.

Lily meets Dominic who is doing a survey of the old house to see what it needs. Although Lily is attracted to this local builder and Irish singer, she becomes suspicious of his involvement in her family’s affairs when she stumbles across some information. There’s lots here to make you wonder if he is honest or playing for the opposing side. Without saying too much and giving anything away, I can confirm his activity poses enough questions and intrigue to keep the pages turning.

I truly enjoyed the character of Sylvia and her focus on seniors’ needs. Sylvia herself is a feisty eighty-two year old widow who certainly knows from experience what those her age range want and she offers a great solution to help her fellow seniors. Along the way of her journey in sorting out her Manor issues, she meets a Frenchman who could be a great match for her. Again, her granddaughter Lily questions his motives (as she does with Dominic). This is understandable for Lily is the oldest of her siblings and the one everyone looks up to for advice. But is she overstepping in this case? We will see whether love or deception is behind the actions. As for romance, I am delighted to say this novel covers a multitude of ages and although there are lots of personality bumps and emotional bruises along the way, the matches and end results are satisfying.

With The Keeper of the Irish Secret, Susanne captivates us with her stunning Irish setting, warm writing style, delightful cast, and fun historical family mystery. Reading this novel, like her others, is like returning to visit a much loved friend. She addresses familiar issues and puts new spins on solving the problems. I love this start to the new series and look forward to more stories that will pass through the Magnolia Manor doors. Susanne knows how to tell a great story and she is one of those constant-return-to-favourite-authors for me. 5 Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Thanks to Bookouture and Netgalley for my review copy.