Patricia O'Reilly

After reading Kilbride House by Sheila Forsey, it was nice to read a second book in quick succession also situated in county Kerry Ireland.
There are parallels: a love story between rich and poor, the historical fact of a difficult society of Protestant and Roman Catholics, the beauty of the landscape which permeates the story. The sad ending is reminiscent of Julia, a super romantic novel by the Dutch author Rijnvisch Feith (1753-1824).
A bit of pruning and less melodrama at the end would certainly benefit the novel.
Still a positive report for a historically illuminating work!… (mere)

The novel tells the story of Mary O'Connor and William Pembroke Mulchinock. The story takes place in Ireland during a tumultuous time. The fact that they have different religions and different social statuses didn't prevent them from falling in love. Knowing that there will be opposition to their marriage did not deter them believing they will be together. Can they make a life together? Mary and William are endearing characters. Beautifully written, this is a moving, touching and memorable love story. Highly recommended.

I received a complimentary copy of this book. The opinions expressed in this review are my own.… (mere)

O’Reilly’s novel gives poignant life to the local Irish lore that the poem “The Rose of Tralee” (attributed to Edward Mordaunt Spencer and set to music by composer Charles Glover) was written by a local wealthy Protestant (William Pembroke Mulchinock) for a Catholic servant girl (Mary O’Connor) employed in his parent’s house. The characters, and their circumstances, are richly drawn. Both William and Mary seek a change to the status quo: Mary resisting the tradition of a parent-brokered marriage while William sees the appeal in the raising voices supporting the idea of Irish self-rule. Anyone familiar with the poem knows that this is a tragic love story. Under O’Reilly pen, our star-crossed lovers exhibit a purity of passion that literally shines through the turbulent times, makes this story such a compelling read. Rich in historic details, O’Reilly's novel beautifully captures the Irish landscape, class differences, the rising political tensions of the time period and touches on the tragedy of the Great Famine.

Overall, a wonderfully written story that is not overshadowed by the tragedy it captures and would make for perfect summer reading in the lead up to the annual Rose of Tralee Festival (at the end of August).… (mere)