Review of 'The Lost House of Ireland' by Susanne O'Leary
Novel by Susanne O’Leary - The Lost House of Ireland
(Book #4 of the Starlight Cottage Series)
Release date: June 8th, 2022
☘️☘️☘️☘️☘️
The Lost House of Ireland completely and sincerely captivated my heart! I adored this enthralling novel from start to finish. I have loved all of the books in the series but this is without doubt my absolute favourite. Susanne O’Leary’s story has perfectly captured the spirit of Ireland in the portrayal of its lively and generous people, spell-binding settings, community closeness and special history. Plus, the wondrous themes of discovery, romance, mystery, fresh starts and renewal shine on these pages.
The adventure begins when American Allegra Casey finds a lost engagement ring in the sands at Cape Cod. It sets her mind aflame with curiosity and after doing some research, she traces the families in question to Ireland. Once she heads off to Sandy Cove, many surprises await her. Her desire to return the ring to its rightful owner is admirable but accomplishing this task proves difficult. The year engraved on the back of the ring is 1939. Will this person still be alive? If not, are there any remaining relatives and how will she find them?
One of the appealing things about this story is how Allegra finds her own passion and purpose in trying to set things right with the ring. For pieces of the Emerald Isle are woven into her own DNA and once those genes awaken, she questions whether she can ever go back to the life she had before. In many ways this story is like a beautiful fairy tale that comes complete with its own kind of prince: at least one potential love interest for Allegra. But who is the real rescuer? Maybe it is Allegra herself, even though her visit to the island exposes some hidden family wars.
The Lost House of Ireland contains so many things I love: mystery, Irish roots, horses, old houses, lost and found items, family dramas and a special song. One of the beauties of this story is how Allegra finds a new sense of purpose in her attempt to return what’s lost. And in doing so, transforms the hearts of those around her. But this quest gives her something else, too. As a descendant, when she steps foot on Ireland’s shores, she is swept up in the magic of its living history. Its land and seascape beauty, along with the people, quicken her soul to what’s most important in life and this makes her want to stay. This ancient romantic island saturated in centuries of stories, changing weather and rural charm captures her heart. The old house gives her a nudge, too, when it gives up its past. So many stories and secrets are hidden within its walls. She finds the answers she seeks but discovers even more. Her heart awakens in Ireland and she finds a place that truly feels like home. And then there’s Max, the handsome male member of the Courtney family and co-resident of the impressive old house on Strawberry Hill, who plays a vital role in her waking from the spell of mediocre existence.
As for the residents of Sandy Cove, some familiar friendly faces from the past books of the series make appearances. Allegra gets to know many of them and they embrace her whole-heartily into the community. It is true as Irish poet William Butler Yeats once said, “There are no strangers here; only friends you haven’t yet met.” Allegra gets to experience this. And together with the Courtneys, they all work together to try and save the house when it comes under threat (and to place the rescued ring on the right finger!).
This novel has a beautiful ending that made my Irish soul sing. I loved this story and its special cast of characters so much. Susanne O’Leary has delivered an unforgettable tale that tugs on the ancestral heart strings in a big and lasting way. The Lost House of Ireland is an absolute must-read. 5 Exquisite Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Special thanks to Bookouture and Netgalley for a review copy.
