The Maiden of Ireland

Women of War #2

by Susan Wiggs

#1 New York Times bestselling author Susan Wiggs sweeps readers away to the misty coast of Ireland in a story of magic, secrets and true love…

John Wesley Hawkins was condemned to hang, accused of treason and heresy. As he's transported to the scaffold at Tyburn, however, the Lord Protector steps in and offers him the hand of mercy—if Wesley agrees to travel to Ireland on a dangerous mission into the heart of the Irish resistance against English rule. He'll have to seduce the rebels' secrets from a headstrong Irishwoman, but that shouldn't be a problem for a man of Wesley's reputation…

Caitlin MacBride is mistress of the beleaguered Irish castle Clonmuir, and she makes no secret of her loyalty to her countrymen. She's determined to remain strong for her people, but a wish for true love one evening at sunset yields the one thing that may sway her resolve. When Wesley walks out of the mist that fateful night, Caitlin's faith in the magic of Ireland is briefly restored—until she discovers he's one of the treacherous Englishmen she has spent her life fighting against.

Will Caitlin learn to trust the stranger who threatens the cause dearest to her heart…especially when Wesley's love for her may cost him his life?

Genres: Romance, Historical Romance, Historical, Ireland, Historical Fiction, Fiction, Medieval

404 pages, ebook

First published January 1, 1993

About the author

Susan Wiggs's life is all about family, friends...and fiction. She lives at the water's edge on an island in Puget Sound, and she commutes to her writers' group in a 17-foot motorboat. She serves as author liaison for Field's End, a literary community on Bainbridge Island, Washington, bringing inspiration and instruction from the world's top authors to her seaside community. (See www.fieldsend.org) She's been featured in the national media, including NPR's "Talk of the Nation," and is a popular speaker locally and nationally.

According to Publishers Weekly, Wiggs writes with "refreshingly honest emotion," and the Salem Statesman Journal adds that she is "one of our best observers of stories of the heart [who] knows how to capture emotion on virtually every page of every book." Booklist characterizes her books as "real and true and unforgettable." She is the recipient of three RITA (sm) awards and four starred reviews from Publishers Weekly for her books. The Winter Lodge and Passing Through Paradise have appeared on PW’s annual "Best Of" lists. Several of her books have been listed as top Booksense picks and optioned as feature films. Her novels have been translated into more than two dozen languages and have made national bestseller lists, including the USA Today, Washington Post and New York Times lists.

The author is a former teacher, a Harvard graduate, an avid hiker, an amateur photographer, a good skier and terrible golfer, yet her favorite form of exercise is curling up with a good book. Readers can learn more on the web at www.susanwiggs.com and on her lively blog at www.susanwiggs.wordpress.com.

Reviews

[Tina · Rating 4 out of 5]

Originally published in 1993 as, "The Mist and the Magic" this is a newly revised version by the author.

I chose to listen to the audio version as a St. Patrick's Day treat ☘️ The narrator spoke in a beautiful and lyrical Irish accent that was music to my ears! 🇮🇪

I enjoy Historical Romances from time to time. The era and setting was riveting. In 1658 during Oliver Cromwell's reign in England a certain, John "Wesley" Hawkins is sentenced to hang. He is given an out by Cromwell that if he sails to Ireland and finds out who is the leader of a certain gang of outlaws his life will be spared and his young daughter's too.

Caitlin McBride is a fierce and strong woman who lives in Clonmuir Castle in Ireland. She is gazing out to sea and wishes to find her true love and suddenly Wesley walks upon the shores.

The writing was flowery and magical. In order to feel the place and time effectively I think this one is best to be listened to on audio. The story is good but I think the romance was more of a 3 1/2 stars for me. The narrator really added to my enjoyment. It was perfect for St. Patrick's Day. ☘️🌈🎩

[Misfit · Rating 4 out of 5]

"I would forfeit the very surety of my soul to be the man who brings that look upon your face."

*fans self*

The girl: Caitlin MacBride, struggling to keep her clan and her family castle together despite the efforts of Cromwell and his roundheads. She's told to pick a rose and make a wish just as the sun sets: "Send me my true love", she asks. Do wishes come true?

The guy: John Wesley Hawkins. Within seconds of being hanged as a priest (long story - read the book), he's taken away by Cromwell's men and they threaten the life of his young daughter unless he goes to Ireland and discovers the leader of a notorious bank of outlaws. Wesley is left ashore near Clonmuir (Cailtin's home) and he rises from the sea just as Caitlin makes her wish...

Magic? You be the judge.

I loved this book, and wouldn't mind picking it up all over again. Plenty of adventure, derring-do, treachery, romance (fans self) and laugh out loud funny moments with the banter of Caitlin's clan members. Oh, and the banter between Wesley and Caitlin at that, let alone that sexual chemistry smoking off the pages.

"Look me in the eye, Caitlin MacBride, and tell me you've been kissed before."

A very nice blend of romance and historical setting, and that Cromwell sure was a mean 'un. This was originally published as The Mist and the Magic (I own a copy), but recently reissued by the publisher as The Maiden of Ireland, and I read a digital copy of the new issue obtained via library loan. I can't answer how much was or was not changed, since I didn't compare more than a few passages.

"Do you feel the magic?"

"Oh yes...I do."

So. Did. I.

[Susie Leuthold · Rating 5 out of 5]

A wonderful love story with a strong Irish woman defending her country and how she found love while fighting to save her land.

[Linda · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this historical romance by Susan Riggs. I didn't even know she wrote this genre. A strong female lead.

An example of family versus chosen family.

[Linnea · Rating 5 out of 5]

All of this authors books are powerful. This one delivered. I loved the ending.

[Farrah · Rating 4 out of 5]

A richly detailed, enjoyable historical romance, The Maiden of Ireland was a lovely read. I liked this book. I haven't read many romances set in Cromwell's era, especially not in Ireland, so it was new for me and I'm happy to say that I thought it was wonderful.

Caitlin was a great heroine. She was very strong and fiercely loyal to her people. Even under the difficult circumstances she found herself in, she didn't falter. She was frustratingly stubborn a couple of times, but nothing too bad. Overall, I really liked her.

Wesley was also wonderful. Like Caitlin, he was very loyal and the poor man had his loyalties torn between his daughter and the woman he loved. Lots of mental conflict there. He was very clever and crafty enough to get himself out of any situation. And, he was also a kind man who, despite the circumstances, was honorable. My only complaint was that, though I understood his reasons for keeping quiet, I wished that he would have told Caitlin about his daughter sooner. It would have saved a lot of heartache. But, otherwise, I really liked him as well.

The romance was very sweet. Caitlin and Wesley were so great together. Despite all the challenges in their way, they fell for each other and I thought it was sweet. And, they definitely had some sensuous heat between them. I thought they were a lovely couple.

The plot was okay. It went by rather slow. I never got disinterested, but, because of the pace, I was never fully hooked. Nonetheless, I was still kept interested the entire way through. I really enjoyed the story and the ending was great.

The Maiden of Ireland was a wonderful historical romance. I really liked it and enjoyed reading it. Romance lovers, this is a book you might want to check out.

*I received a complimentary copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review

[Arshia · Rating 1 out of 5]

I received a DRC from NetGalley for an honest review.

Susan Wiggs is a very prolific writer and I have loved her historicals in the past. The compelling story, the grandeur of the Irish country side, the injustice against the Catholics and Irish all made this a gripping novel. However, I hated the one of the main characters and for that reason alone I could not get lost in the story. John Wesley Hawkins was more villain than hero to me. He lied and deceived through out the whole novel. I understood his reason in the beginning but towards the end it was a paltry excuse. Also he claims to have fallen in love with Caitlin for intelligence, beauty, blah blah blah but if he actually thought her intelligent then he would at least make an effort to talk to her. He tries to deceive her at every turn, in the beginning he doesn't know her but after they are married he still continues. Any honorable man would tell his wife that her previous suitor was married (a man she had pinned her hopes on); at least give her a heads up instead of leading her to meet the man and shocking her. That scene was so petty and childish on his part, disgusting man! Also once they come back to her home he starts to take over her duties. I know men aren't easily led by women but at least try to show a united front. Wesley blurts out his suggestions to constantly undermine her leadership. What kind of love is this?! Everything had to be hidden from her because she can't deal with it. You little bitch she was providing for her people long before you came along!! And Caitlin, ah Caitlin, I loved you so. Such a strong vibrant character, I'm sorry only a dithering shell was left behind. Why did you never confront him? Where did you fierceness go?

[Janie Weimer · Rating 4 out of 5]

Excellent details -- made me feel like I was in Ireland. Great sense of place. Enjoyed the characters, but plot movement went fairly slowly as did character development. Liked the intrigue and the splash of magic thrown in. I'd read something else by this author.

[Mary · Rating 3 out of 5]

First, a disclaimer: I don’t usually read romance novels, so that might have skewed my rating somewhat. I really enjoyed the historical aspects of this book, but I wasn’t as happy with the romance part.

Caitlin begins as a strong-willed woman who leads the MacBride clan behind the figurehead of her dreamy, apparently senile father. John Wesley Hawkins is Cromwell’s spy sent to discover and capture or kill the leader of the rebel gorillas.

As the story progresses, Caitlin starts dithering about decisions to be made and actions to be taken, all under the Wesley’s influence. Wesley, while professing to love Caitlin, spends the entire story lying to her, betraying her and undermining her authority as the MacBride. That doesn’t seem like love to me.

Despite its flaws, the book was well written and the descriptions of the setting first rate. The characters could have been better developed, but I did read to the end and I would try another book by Susan Wiggs.

[The Book Worm · Rating 4 out of 5]

I had a difficult time getting into this book and I still think the way Caitlin and Wesley first meet is a bit silly and unrealistic. I kept on turning the pages, though, waiting for something to change - and then it did. I got hooked into the story and couldn't wait to discover how Wesley was going to get himself out of all his predicaments and manage to be reunited with his daughter.
I found the romance between Caitlin and Wesley a bit secondary, given everything else that is happening at the same time, but the rest of the plot, once you finally get into it, is intriguing enough to keep you trying to guess what might come next.
Very well written and historically interesting, even though a few of the dialogs seemed slightly too modern. Four stars.

[Jeanne (love2cook) · Rating 4 out of 5]

John Wesley Hawkins was in the process of being hanged for treason and heresy, when the Lord Protector steps in and offers him his life if he will agree to go to Ireland and to gain the secrets from the rebels leader. Caitlin Mac Bride is mistress of the Irish castle Clonmuir and she's loyal to her countrymen and is also, the leader of the rebels against the English. She has but one wish for herself, true love. A decent read

[Trish · Rating 4 out of 5]

I'd missed this historical romance by Susan Wiggs. I thought I'd read them all. This one is set in the mid-17th Century, mainly in Ireland. It is the era of Cromwell and the British are trying to bring the Irish under control. How accurately it portrays the era, I don't know, but the growing romance between a powerful female leader of an Irish band and a British soldier bending to Cromwell's will to save his young daughter was involving enough that I read it in one day.

[Karen Butman]

I am a bit mixed about this book. Although, I couldn't put it down because of the historical part, the romance was a bit sappy. Romance isn't my thing. But, the story was intriguing and inviting nonetheless. I like Susan Wiggs writing and will read more of hers. Whenever I learn about history, I do consider that a worthwhile endeavor. Would recommend. I did read the LP version so perhaps, the regular edition would have historical notes. I always appreciate those.

[Judy · Rating 2 out of 5]

Susan Wiggs is usually a good storyteller, but this was not a good story. I had to push myself to get through it, and I wish I had a nickel for every time she wrote how handsome Wesley was and how beautiful Caitlin was. She relied too much on sexual chemistry and not enough on plot or emotional depths, as in her later work. I read all of The Lakeshore Chronicles and especially liked "Snowfall at Willow Lake." Read that, or the entire chronicles but not this one.

[Steph Ward · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was VERRRRY SLOW to start. The only 2 things that kept me reading was that it was Susan Wiggs and hope it would get better. I'm not sure exactly when it finally turned around for me, but once the tides turned, I couldn't stop. I usually need 2-3 days to read a book...this took me a week. I'm so glad I persevered.

[Susan · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really did like this book. There were however a few things that disturbed me. I did not like the deceitfulness and how long it continued. He should have come clean once relationships had been formed.
There is a sex scene.

[Laura Aase · Rating 1 out of 5]

I love historical fiction, I hate historical fiction about Ireland filled with folklore and legends... couldn’t get past the half way point and I usually love this author. She should stick with contemporary fiction!

[Ann · Rating 2 out of 5]

Embarrassing

The author's portrayal of the Catholic practices in that era are so erratic and erroneous that I shudder. And Westley surely is not an enlightened hero. Just shows how our sensibilities have changed in the last few decades. (Notice copyright date).

[Nelly · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.75 stars, susan wiggs is a good writer, lovely hero. won't give it 4 stars because I don't think this will stand the test of time, that is, don't think I'll remember it 1 year from now, but worth reading.

[Laurel · Rating 1 out of 5]

I couldn’t get into it. The story was predictable although the time period is fascinating. After 75 pages, I decided not to spend any more time on a book I had to force myself to get back to. Very disappointed. I usually like Susan Wiggs.

[Jennifer Wyatt · Rating 3 out of 5]

I love books about Ireland, particularly historical fiction, but this one was a little (okay, a LOT) too much like a romance novel for me. The cover kind of gives that away. I did finish it, but it only gets a three, which for me equals “fine”.

[Christie · Rating 4 out of 5]

"I knew there was no more magic in Ireland"is Caitlin Macbride's line of thought as she secretly yearns and waits for her true love while fighting for her nation's freedom.

Would she find the magic in the arms of John Wesley Hawkins, an Englishman?

This historical novel is enchanting.💚💚💚

[Nadine Bourgault · Rating 4 out of 5]

If you enjoy historical fiction about Ireland, this is for you. Add in some violence, romance, the hate between England and Ireland, this will keep you turning the page. Susan Wiggs always brings things to life, and this is no different. I highly recommend.

[Victoria · Rating 3 out of 5]

6/10

[AJP_Bear · Rating 5 out of 5]

Didn’t really like either the hero or the heroine, Yet I had to keep reading, hence the 5 stars.

[Jane Mercer · Rating 1 out of 5]

found it a bit boring I usually like Susan Wigg but not this one little empathy for the characters and it wasn't that believable either

[Carla · Rating 3 out of 5]

This romance is a bit over the top in terms of flowery language, but the lively plot and fun characters pull it through. It's a fun escape read.

[Cathy Evans · Rating 4 out of 5]

The historical romance was pretty good but the author spends far to much time explaining every detail of the scene. There should be scene setting but not multiple pages.

[Shirley]

Didn’t like

[Summer · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a wonderful book and an even better ending! I would absolutely recommend this book!