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Magnolia Manor #4

The Widow's Irish Secret

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‘This will always be your home.’ My daughter’s voice warms me, and I look out at the sea, smelling the wild Irish flowers on the windowsill. But what if the secret I’m keeping destroys the only family I have left?

Wiping away her tears, Patricia Fleury carefully twists the ring off her finger. She sets it down on the glass tabletop and locks her front door for the final time. She never imagined she’d go back to the West Coast of Ireland, but she knows she can only grieve the loss of her husband if she’s surrounded by her daughters, and the laughter of her grandchildren. Unless her secrets follow her…

The windswept beach sparkles as Patricia spends her days swimming and building sandcastles with her family. But starting again in her old, worn-out cottage, unlived in for years, is harder than she thought. The nights are lonely, and every noise in the darkness reminds her of the painful past she’s trying to escape. Until she runs into a mysterious old friend from the past, Cillian O’Malley, whose dark, hazel eyes look wounded too. With every brush of his hand, and every old memory they share, she begins to feel safe again. If she admits the longing she feels, which burns brighter every day, could they make a new life together?

But when Patricia lets Cillian into her home, allowing herself to imagine waking up in his strong arms every day, he uncovers a young child’s drawings in an old wardrobe in the cottage. Patricia feels a rush of fear as Cillian makes excuses and hurries out of the door. Does he know her secret?

Patricia thought Cillian might accept her for who she really is, but will her mistakes tear them apart? Can they work together to right the wrongs of the past? Or will she hurt those she has fought so hard to protect for all these years?

A gorgeous, completely unputdownable second chance romance for fans of Tricia O’Malley, Debbie Macomber and Mary Alice Monroe.

What readers are saying about Susanne O’

OMG! OMG!! I cannot remember the last time I was so gutted to come to the end of a book!! I absolutely fell in love and it genuinely felt like I was packing my bags and being whisked away… Absolutely gorgeous!!! An absolutely stunning, heart-warming romance.’ Bookworm 86, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

I was completely captivated… Amazing… completely melted my heart. This story is uplifting and inspiring and I found it to be unputdownable. I absolutely loved it.’ Page Turners, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

‘Truly touched my heart. Impossible to put down kept me tapping the screen of my Kindle deep into the night… will be with me for a long while.’ Robin Loves Reading, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

I couldn’t put this down! Absolutely delightful!… Loved this!’ Goodreads reviewer, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

I really wish I was still reading this book I suppose I had to run out of pages at some point, at the rate I was devouring them… Perfect A pure joy to read.

254 pages, Kindle Edition

Published April 30, 2025

2131 people are currently reading
99 people want to read

About the author

Susanne O'Leary

59 books385 followers
Susanne O’Leary is the bestselling author of more than 30 novels, mainly romantic fiction set in Ireland. Her many books set in County Kerry have been hugely popular with readers all over the world. She shares her time between Dublin and Kerry, where she and her husband have a little cottage near the beach. The wild, beautiful landscape, the small villages and the friendly people of that county have inspired her to write her feel-good stories. She's been inspired to represent people of all ages and walks of life, with lots of romance, and more than a dash of humour.

When she is not writing or reading by the fire, Susanne loves heading for the great outdoors, walking on the beaches or scaling the green hills of her favourite county.

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews
Profile Image for Sheila.
3,210 reviews134 followers
April 10, 2025
I received a free copy of, The Widow's Irish Secret, by Susanne O'Leary, from the publisher and Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. This is book four in the Magnolia Manor series. Patricia Fleury is still grieving her husband, she decides to return to Ireland, to her family to recover. This was a really good story, I love the location.
Profile Image for Carol (Reading Ladies).
934 reviews198 followers
May 3, 2025
3.5 Stars

The Widow’s Irish Secret is the fourth installment in the Magnolia Manor series, featuring the Fleury family.

Previously in the Magnolia Manor series, we were introduced to a grandmother and three sisters. This installment features the mother. After the unexpected and sudden death of her second husband, Patricia Fleury returns to Ireland, where she hopes to strengthen the relationships with her daughters and mother and bond with her grandchildren. She buys a rundown cottage and during the restoration process, she runs into an old friend/love interest, Cillian O’Malley. Sparks fly. While Patricia is busy with her family and new/old love interest, she discovers a secret hidden in the cottage’s walls, which could affect her future.

Although each installment in the Magnolia Manor series can be read as a stand alone, I highly recommend reading the series in order for the most satisfying reading experience. The series is multigenerational with themes of family drama and grandmother/mother/daughter(s) relationships. Each installment features one of the family members, and this installment focuses on the mother. In each installment, the other family members are mentioned. Some readers might enjoy knowing that each main character has a side of sweet (closed-door) romance. These romances never overpower the themes of personal growth and family drama.

Some readers like series and other readers prefer stand-alones. I appreciate both. I especially enjoy an already published series that I can binge read! I don’t enjoy waiting for a next installment. One thing I like about a series is that it solves the troublesome dilemma of what to read next!

I read the first couple of books in the series in anticipation of #ReadingIrelandMonth25. The author draws a strong sense of place in each story that did not disappoint. If you enjoy stories set in Ireland, I recommend this generally uplit and satisfying series. Readers who are looking ahead to Reading Ireland Month in 2026 might want to consider these for your TBR.

Sometimes “uplit” is exactly the mood I’m looking for! Even though there is substantial content in each story, the mood is generally uplit and we are confident of an HEA. I know some readers quibble with the term ‘women’s fiction,’ but I think the categorization fits here. These are stories about women dealing with issues that many women face. These are not romances, although there is a small side of romance in each installment.

Content Consideration: (this installment) death of a spouse

Readers who are looking for an uplit, gently written women’s fiction series set in Ireland will want this series on their TBRs. (start with the first installment).

Thanks #NetGalley @Bookouture for a complimentary eARC of #TheWidowsIrishSecret upon my request. All opinions are my own.

For more reviews visit my blog www.readingladies.com where this review was first published.
Profile Image for Caroline|Page~Turners.
585 reviews15 followers
May 1, 2025
Patricia Fleury, who had believed she had found her forever home, was now forced to return to the West Coast of Ireland. Her loving daughters and grandchildren would be her source of support during her grief over the loss of her husband.

Despite her family’s presence, Patricia felt utterly lost and her grief was overwhelming. Determined to occupy her mind, she spent every moment she had with her grandchildren. Suddenly, she encountered an old friend, Cillian O’Malley. They reminisced about their past, and the reconnection felt comforting. Cillian proved to be exactly what she needed to heal her broken heart.

However, Cillian’s visit took an unexpected turn when he discovered a child’s drawing in an old wardrobe. Instinctively, he left, leaving Patricia wondering if he knew the secret she had kept hidden for so many years.

“The Widow’s Irish Secret,” a heartwarming and inspiring tale by Susanne O’Leary, is filled with the hope of life’s second chances. It’s a story that weaves mystery and intrigue, which I had never anticipated. I was delighted to return to Ireland, with its breathtaking coastline and sparkling waters.

I cherished the precious time Patricia spent with her daughters and grandchildren. The story tugged at my heartstrings multiple times, evoking empathy for Patricia and the trials she had endured. It was an unputdownable read, a rapid-fire journey that I devoured in one sitting. I highly recommend it to anyone seeking a delightful escape.
Profile Image for Sharon Rimmelzwaan.
1,464 reviews45 followers
May 26, 2025
The fourth instalment of the Magnolia Manor books series, The Irish Widow's Secret, brings a tale of love, loss, and maybe second chances. Suzanne O'Leary is a top-notch author who never lets me down with her masterful storytelling. She weaves such emotional and uplifting tales that I can't help but be invested in every character she writes about.

Set against the beautiful Western coast of Ireland, her vivid descriptions made me yearn for the sea. Tricia Fluery is a woman twice widowed. She returns to Ireland for a fresh start and to be closer to her daughters. She is hoping to strengthen their bond and spend more time with her grandchildren. She buys a doer-upper. A cottage she can put her heart into. As she works on it, she ends up meeting an old flame Cillian. The chemistry is still there, and as she fixes the house, she discovers something hidden within the cottage walls. Something that can impact her future, too.

Oh my word! I do adore these books. A Suzanne O'Leary book is always a treat to the senses as well as the mind. The subjects she writes about are real everyday issues for people. This book is about second chances in life, and I was truly there.

It is a standalone as well as part of a series. I would say the books are best read as a series. If only to know the characters and their backgrounds. Another fabulous instalment for the series.
Profile Image for Cheryl Briggs.
244 reviews
January 20, 2026
Fourth book in the series. I love the Irish setting for these stories.
Enjoyed this just as much as the others. Quick reads too.
Profile Image for Cindy Spear.
615 reviews47 followers
March 29, 2025
It was so lovely to glide back into another uplifting Irish mystery romance from Susanne O’Leary! Reading one of her books is like meeting up with an old friend. You chat around a warming fire, drink your hot beverage and reminisce. As with all her series, it is a real pleasure to return to the families at the core of the dramas that stoke the heart’s flames. The setting is unquestionably vibrant and vividly described, so you get a real sense of the environment that often sets the mood and reflects the changing tones of the characters. The writing style of The Widow’s Irish Secret not only helped me smell the crisp salt air and get lost in the delicate aroma of wildflowers that blanket the rugged coastline but it left me gazing on dreamy sunsets and bathing in the soft morning light! There are plenty of stunning cliffs, clouds and coastline on the pages to explore that transported me to Ireland’s beautiful western shores.

The Widow’s Irish Secret is the fourth book in the Magnolia Manor series. It was pure delight to meet up again with familiar characters and see where their lives have taken them in new twists and turns. The Fleury family has many branches and as their lives continue to expand from book to book, we learn more about them. The focal point in this novel is the upcoming wedding of Tricia’s daughter Vi and her fiance actor Jack. They want a simple wedding but they face a few challenges as expectations from certain family members cause a bit of conflict. It was good to see feisty Grandmother Sophie again, who always causes some excitement in the plot. She stirs things up but often offers amazing support and fantastic advice to her loved ones and friends. As an event’s organiser, she goes all out, and this time it is for her beloved granddaughter’s engagement to Jack. She certainly created a terrific themed party that nobody would forget!

Aside from family activities (such as engagements and weddings) each novel singles out one main character to tell his/her story. This time it is Tricia’s. We learn of her tragic losses— including two husbands. This story is particularly focused on the death of her last husband, Sean. She has struggled with her grief, but also is dealing with a legal drama. Her late husband’s nephew is causing her trouble. Plagued by worry and guilt, she leaves Dublin to return to her children’s and grandchildren’s home in the West Coast of Ireland. Near Magnolia Manor, she buys a run-down cottage on the property and sets about restoring it. This gives her a fresh start but she carries a secret that she fears will be unveiled and turn family and friends against her. She tries hard to forget about it. Then during her renovations, she stumbles across a mystery that the old place renders up. And she is determined to solve it for it may offer her the ticket of freedom she needs. I found this part of the plot absolutely fascinating!

As mentioned, Tricia has lost two husbands in her lifetime. She was fully committed to each of them. She has always given so much of herself to marriage, her children, grandchildren and relatives. Now that she is older, she wonders about taking time for herself. She becomes caught in a conflict of whether to embark on another relationship, when a special man from her past reappears. Cillian travels the world as an archaeologist and although she has feelings for him, she would never want to slow him down. Nor does she really want to give up her own new freedom either. So, they come up with a solution that really works for them. Personally I thought it was a great recipe for an older couple who have already fulfilled many past life commitments and done the hard yards!

This is a beautiful story about family, secrets, discoveries, fresh starts, romances, restoration and a recipe for a hope-filled future. It also contains a captivating historical mystery that must be solved! I loved it all and appreciated the fun, festivities and relationship tangles, but I particularly enjoyed the wisdom that was offered by matriarch Sophie about modern day romantic arrangements which could work for many couples. Get a copy, grab a mug and your favourite food, curl up on your comfy sofa and enjoy going back to Magnolia Manor! 5 Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Thanks to Bookouture and Netgalley for a review copy.
Profile Image for Carla.
7,727 reviews177 followers
May 2, 2025
The Widow's Irish Secret is the 4th book in the Magnolia Manor series. The first three books are the stories of each of the three Fleury sisters; Lily, Rose and Vivian (Vi) and this is their mother's story. Tricia was young when Fred, her husband died in a storm with is father. She remained at Magnolia Manor living her mother-in-law, Sylvia, with her three children, while they dealt with their grief. When the girls went off to boarding school, Tricia moved to Dublin, purchased a small apartment and got a job. She ran into Cillian, Fred's best friend, who seemed to want a romantic relationship, but she wasn't ready for that. Ten years after Fred died, she met and married Sean. They moved to his farm in Donegal and lived happily until he became ill and died. Now she is grieving her second husband, and dealing with some legal issues. She knows she needs to head home, back to Dingle and her family. She purchases the Gardeners House from Sylvia and plans to refurbish it. Back in familiar surroundings, with people she knew when she was young, surrounded by family, she begins to put herself back together again.

The Widow's Irish Secret is a story of second chance romance, family, going home again, secrets and new beginnings. Tricia was hard to get close to. She was closed off, had a chip on her shoulder and huge secrets when she returned. She wanted to get close to her family, but the secrets were always there between them. I really liked both Ted, her builder, and Cillian, her romantic interest. They were both caring and wanted to help her and take care of her. She wants to take care of herself. I found her often impulsive and angry about things that she was doing as well. Having said that, I did enjoy the story. I wanted to know what the legal problems were and they were hinted about often. They only were revealed about 2/3 of the way into the book. As the story progressed, Tricia grew on me. When the situation were revealed, I could understand why she was acting the way she was. Family plays a huge part in this series and I enjoyed seeing all the characters in the previous books in this one. Magnolia Manor is up and running with the senior residents full and the events venue fully scheduled. The tearoom is always busy and I loved seeing how successful it has become. The ending was a good one, with everyone getting their Happily Ever After. I don't know if there will be another book in the series, but if not, this one ties it up nicely. If you enjoy family drama, second chances and new beginnings, then I recommend this book and series.
Profile Image for P.Reads.
436 reviews2 followers
May 20, 2025
4.5⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️


The Widow’s Irish Secret is the fourth installment in Susanne O’Leary’s Magnolia Manor series, offering a heartfelt exploration of love, loss, and the courage to start anew. Set against the picturesque backdrop of Ireland’s west coast, the novel follows Patricia Fleury, a twice-widowed mother seeking solace and a fresh beginning.

✅ Pros:
• Evocative Setting: O’Leary’s vivid descriptions bring the Irish coastline to life, immersing readers in the sights and sounds of the region.
• Emotional Depth: Patricia’s journey through grief and self-discovery is portrayed with authenticity, resonating with readers who appreciate character-driven narratives.
• Second-Chance Romance: The rekindled connection between Patricia and Cillian O’Malley adds a layer of warmth and hope, emphasizing the theme of finding love later in life.
• Family Dynamics: The novel delves into complex family relationships, highlighting the importance of reconciliation and support.

❌ Cons:
• Pacing Issues: Some readers may find the middle sections of the book slower-paced, with prolonged focus on internal conflicts.
• Character Frustrations: At times, Patricia and Cillian’s interactions can feel repetitive, with misunderstandings that may test readers’ patience.
• Standalone Limitations: While the book can be read independently, familiarity with the previous installments enhances the depth of character connections and backstories.



Final Thoughts:

The Widow’s Irish Secret is a touching narrative that balances themes of grief, love, and renewal. O’Leary’s skillful storytelling and rich character development make it a compelling read for fans of women’s fiction and contemporary romance. Whether you’re new to the Magnolia Manor series or a returning reader, this novel offers a satisfying and emotionally resonant experience.



❤️shaye.readss
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Ann-Maree.
1,131 reviews9 followers
April 22, 2025
The Widow's Irish Secret (Magnolia Manor Book 4)
by Susanne O'Leary

I have had the pleasure of immersing myself in several works by Susanne O'Leary, including the captivating first instalment of this series, where we first encounter the intriguing Fleury women of Magnolia Manor.

In this latest instalment, we follow Patricia Fleury as she embarks on a poignant journey back to her roots, burdened by the cherished memories of her one true love and the promise of a new beginning with her growing family. With hope in her heart, she purchases a dilapidated cottage nestled within the enchanting grounds of Magnolia Manor on the breathtaking West Coast of Ireland.

To her astonishment, the last person she ever expected to see back in this hauntingly beautiful place is Cillian O'Malley, her late husband’s closest friend. Cillian, a world-travelling archaeologist who has unearthed countless treasures from the depths of history, finds himself seeking something far more elusive than artifacts: the warmth of love that has always evaded him.

This book unfolds with a tapestry woven from secrets, deceit, and heartfelt revelations, inviting readers to unravel the complexities of family ties and the mysteries of the past. I relished the opportunity to reconnect with familiar characters from the first book, delving deeper into their lives and uncovering more layers of this captivating family saga.

I extend my heartfelt gratitude to both the Publisher and the Author for generously providing me with a complimentary audio Advanced Reader Copy (ARC) of this novel through NetGalley. This review is my sincere, unbiased reflection of the book, shaped solely by my own thoughts and experiences.
Profile Image for Robin Loves Reading.
2,935 reviews431 followers
May 2, 2025
Tricia, aware that it’s time for a new beginning, can’t embark on this journey until she lets go of her past. While she has valid reasons to feel saddened by past events, a fresh chapter in her life is about to unfold. This begins with Tricia’s return to the West Coast of Ireland. Although this wasn’t the place she envisioned for herself, it will bring her closer to her daughters and granddaughters.

Tricia, a woman deeply familiar with grief, has endured the loss of two husbands, including her recent husband. Amidst her grief, she faces numerous challenges. An unresolved situation has left her burdened with secrets that could have dire consequences. Additionally, she’s busy with her daughter’s upcoming wedding and cherishes the time she spends with her granddaughters.

Determined to make the most of her new surroundings, Tricia purchases a run-down cottage and embarks on necessary renovations. During her renovations, she unexpectedly reunites with an old friend of her late husband, Cillian. This reunion sparks a lingering connection between them, raising questions about the possibility of a deeper relationship. Meanwhile, Cillian has his own share of painful experiences that have shaped his life.

Reading stories about “women of a certain age” is always a delight, especially when they’ve lived rich lives and have a glimpse of what lies ahead. Tricia is a wonderful protagonist, and the conflicts she faces add depth and warmth to the captivating Magnolia Manor series.

Many thanks to Bookouture and to NetGalley for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.
Profile Image for Doreen Montis.
64 reviews2 followers
March 30, 2025
As a huge fan of Suzanne O’Leary and The Magnolia Manor series, I have to say this was my least favorite it the series. The book focuses on Tricia, the daughter in law of Sylvia and the mother of the Fleury girls. Tricia moves back to a cottage at Magnolia Manor to start over.

The book brings back many of the characters we have grown to love, but it left this reader wanting to see more of them. I did not enjoy the tense feelings Tricia had for Sylvia. Sylvia is such a central character who often helps the Fleury women with her wisdom. This wisdom was not shown until 80 percent of the book had passed.

The secrets Tricia and Cillian had were blown out of proportion and got too repetitive. It was unrealistic and quite annoying that Tricia got so upset over Cillian not being able to disclose the details of a confidential project he was working at every encounter. Likewise, Cillian came across as an adolescent every time he got upset Tricia wanted to spend time with the family or had to attend to another matter. Both Tricia and Cillian were unlikable. I would have liked to see Tricia have another love interest, maybe one focused on the mystery of the art discovery instead of the lack of trust issues between Tricia and Cillian.
Profile Image for Dee Groocock.
1,442 reviews58 followers
March 26, 2025
Tricia Fleury is running away, running to her daughters and grandchildren. With her daughter, Vi, marrying Jack, she uses this as an excuse to flee from trouble.

What she didn’t expect when going back to where her first husband died, was to meet his best friend, Cillian O’Murphy again.

With sparks flying between the two of them, can they get past their mistrust of each other to have any kind of friendship or relationship?

With their grandmother, Sylvia, still ruling the Fleury family, can Vi and Jack have the wedding they want, or will Sylvia take over, as usual?

Oh, how I loved being back with the Fleury’s! I love everything about this series and devour the book when a new one comes out.

Set on the west coast of Ireland, I enjoy picturing the area from the descriptive writing from the author.

A will they, won’t they story, but also a tale of friendships, past and present.

I found I had a smile on my face throughout this story, I felt as though I was back with family.

My thanks to Bookouture and NetGalley for a copy in exchange for my honest review.
Profile Image for Pam.
4,629 reviews69 followers
May 20, 2025
Two of the three Fleury girls are happily married and well. They are all living near Magnolia Manor. Violet is in the process of planning her wedding. She wants a small one; but her grandmother wants a large one. Their mother negotiates a deal. Sylvia gets a big engagement party and Violet gets a smaller wedding.
Meanwhile, Tricia has a secret she doesn't want others to know. This secret could put her in jail. She just hopes she can find money enough to pay her former step-son off. Meanwhile she is
keeping the secret from everyone.
Tricia's life gets more complicated when her former husband's best friend shows up again. She had dated him prior to dating Fred. Could their old flame be refired up? Excellent book
Profile Image for STACIE DUFOUR.
372 reviews
April 10, 2025
Thank you to Netgalley, the publisher and Susanne O'Leary for this ARC.

A true second chance romance in a beautiful cozy setting. I enjoyed Tricia and following along with her journey. I especially loved seeing her discover herself and find her place with family and friends. I did feel a little lost at times having not read the prior books in the series. There were a few gaps for me from her early life but I still felt invested in her outcome.

I will say I did not really care for her love interest. I did not really feel any chemistry and Cillian felt unkind and selfish, more than once. I am a Ted gal. Their friendship was more enjoyable and had more potential in my opinion. Also, the secrets were a little meh.

Overall, this later in life story is worth a ready. I intend to go back and read the girls stories. It might make me like this book more.
Profile Image for Karen.
595 reviews6 followers
May 18, 2025
Fabulous author Susanne O'Leary presents the fourth installment of the Magnolia Manor series, The WIdow’s
Irish Secret.

Tricia Fleury is in mourning after losing two husbands and decides to leave Dublin to return to the place where she lived with her first husband where her daughters and grandchildren still reside. To her surprise, she connects with an old friend, Cillian, who helps her with the cottage she has purchased. However, Tricia harbours a secret. Will she find her path?

I must admit that while I related to Tricia , i didn't connect with Cillian at all! I found him to be aloof and obnoxious, while Ted was kind and welcoming, making him a much better match for Tricia. Despite this, I thoroughly enjoyed the story and highly recommend you pick up a copy. Although it is part of a series, it can easily be enjoyed as a standalone
4,199 reviews21 followers
May 2, 2025
The Widow's Irish Secret (Magnolia Manor Book 4) by Susanne O'Leary is a story of reconciliation, reconnection, past secrets contain in a past tragedy and a brighter day. Having lost two husbands in her life, Patricia Fleury has much to reflect and ponder as well as to grieve as she returns to the West Coast of Ireland.

West Coast of Ireland gives Patricia Fleury a strong period of growth as she reunites with her daughters, grandchildren and even her former mother-in-law. In her sixties she still has much life to live so here the future begins to look brighter. She is a character who is easy to understand and relate to in her life. She must come to terms with the past to move forward, not always easy in this book. Beautiful story but have a box of tissues handy too.
907 reviews5 followers
April 22, 2025
I have a love/hate relationship with this darn book. On one hand, I absolutely loved the setting of this story. I adore the backdrops of Ireland and the people you read about. But, on the other hand, I'm not a fan of wishy washy characters, and I found both Trisha and Cillian beyond annoying. Lots of mystery, lies and secrets, some were okay for the premise of the book, but others not so much. I definitely would have preferred Ted and Trisha together, but i think she would have still been irritating. Overall an okay book, really enjoyed the ending.

I voluntarily reviewed an ARC copy of this book.
968 reviews5 followers
April 19, 2025
Really enjoyed this story about Tricia Fleury and her secret. Her second husband has past and she has decided to go home to Magnolia Harbor to be with her family. She buys the old cottage she and her first husband Fred, the father of her girls, were planning to buy and fix up. She leaves behind a secret. She meets up with some of friend and goes speed dating with them . There she runs into an old, old friend, Cillian O'malley. See what happens. Telling anything else would be a spoiler. A VERY GOOD READ.
Profile Image for Ann.
1,092 reviews25 followers
April 22, 2025
It's so good to be back in Magnolia Manor and this time it’s the turn of Tricia, the girls mother, who we've not heard much about in the previous 3 books. All the rest of the Fleury women are here too and its like catching up with old friends. This book works perfectly well as a standalone read, but I urge you to read the previous books to get the most out of the history of the family, and I envy you the binge-read. As before the plot is predictable and all the more enjoyable because of it. Another wonderful hug of a book and I'm feeling bereft now I've finished it.

Profile Image for Elaine - Splashes Into Books.
3,895 reviews137 followers
May 11, 2025
Another gorgeous read
With family drama, romance and greed!
Where escaping from problems seems ideal
Hoping her secrets to conceal.

Returning to the place she lived before
Nearer to her daughters and so much more.
A wedding to plan, old friends to meet again.
Memories rekindled, with less pain.

A secret uncovered,
New opportunities discovered.
There’s even a chance
Of a heartwarming romance.

A lovely story from beginning to end
One in which it is a delight your time to spend.
For my copy of this book I say thank you
As I share with you this, my honest review.
Profile Image for Charlotte.
581 reviews21 followers
June 2, 2025
The Widow's Irish Secret is the fourth installment in the lovely Magnolia Manor series. I've only read book 3 prior to this, so most of the characters were new to me. Although they are a series I think they can be read perfectly as standalone books too. I absolutely adore the setting and would run away to Magnolia Manor in an instant.

I'll be honest in that I didn't really like Cillian, and was secretly rooting for Ted throughout the book. I didn't really trust him, and even when his secrets were revealed I wasn't a fan.

Overall this was a lovely read which I found relaxing and gentle.
Profile Image for Hailey MacRae.
60 reviews6 followers
March 31, 2025
3.5 stars

This book was absolutely beautiful.
I loved that it followed the same trail of family secrets as the rest of the Magnolia Manor series.

I found this captivated how long & how deep these secrets can run, and how much of an impact it can have on an entire families life.

I also enjoyed the fact that this book touched on finding love not only after loss, but later in life too.
502 reviews4 followers
June 11, 2025
Irish eyes are smiling

I love this series it's wonderful description of the Irish coast and it's brilliant take on its residents it's a great travel advertisement for you to visit , the characters are amazing and the storyline of the family is so well done a very well deserved 5 stars
76 reviews
September 29, 2025
Fun, cozy romance.

Susanne O'Leary's books about the Fleury family build on each other nicely. Her characters' personalities are consistent over time. I enjoy her storylines.

I have a hard time with how character's names are swapped out for someone else's several times throughout her ebooks. I'm not sure if her printed books are better written/edited.
Profile Image for Sarah J Stebbins.
368 reviews
May 30, 2025
3.5 (very good) rating, rounded up.

This was a very good addition to the series even if, as happens with her books sometimes, the “drama” felt a little bit much at times. Overall, a good read and helped after the heavy read I finished yesterday. I have said it before, and Im repeating since it is still true, but these short, simple romances are good palate cleanser reads.
Profile Image for Jacqueline freegard.
151 reviews
August 2, 2025
lots of promise …

… but I felt as if I had been wrapped in syrup by the time I got to the end of the story. Lots of build up story lines but no substance, you could feel the outcome from the beginning, always enjoyed Suzanne O’Leary, until this book, sorry to say that,
10 reviews
May 5, 2025
Romance and Mystery

I enjoyed the latest book in the series and am fond of the family and enjoy learning about the area it’s set in
Profile Image for Fran.
98 reviews
May 10, 2025
Another great read by Susanne O'Leary This series follows a family for three generations. Perfect for fans of Mave Binchy and Jean Grainger. I often read two books at the same time on in the AM one in the PM.
8 reviews
August 12, 2025
a great holiday book

Wildly predictable but nonetheless a good uncomplicated read. All the flavour of the dingle area brought to life in words
509 reviews
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August 26, 2025
Not quite as good as the first three books in the series, but still a good read.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews

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