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If Walls Could Talk: The Dunmara Series - Book 1
Dunmara, County Clare, Ireland
Orla Daly can't believe the bombshell her husband of thirty years has just dropped. The future she imagined is gone, and she's forced to redefine her entire life while grappling with something from her past that doesn't quite add up. An opportunity to attend a wellness retreat with her best friend at Dunmara House seems like exactly what she needs to find her way forward.
Connecticut, USA, 1969
Jeannie is part of the first ever intake of women to Yale University. Her father thinks it's a waste of money, but Jeannie knows she has what it takes to be a novelist—she just needs a chance. While America is at war in Vietnam, and all over the country people are clashing, her life unexpectedly takes her to Ireland, where a course is set that will ripple through generations.
Standing since 1689, the stately Dunmara House in Ireland has seen life in all its guts and glory. Now, as two women's lives become entwined across time, the old house slowly reveals its secrets.
Orla Daly can't believe the bombshell her husband of thirty years has just dropped. The future she imagined is gone, and she's forced to redefine her entire life while grappling with something from her past that doesn't quite add up. An opportunity to attend a wellness retreat with her best friend at Dunmara House seems like exactly what she needs to find her way forward.
Connecticut, USA, 1969
Jeannie is part of the first ever intake of women to Yale University. Her father thinks it's a waste of money, but Jeannie knows she has what it takes to be a novelist—she just needs a chance. While America is at war in Vietnam, and all over the country people are clashing, her life unexpectedly takes her to Ireland, where a course is set that will ripple through generations.
Standing since 1689, the stately Dunmara House in Ireland has seen life in all its guts and glory. Now, as two women's lives become entwined across time, the old house slowly reveals its secrets.
324 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 22, 2026
About the author
Jean Grainger
107 books1,701 followersJean Grainger was born in Cork, Ireland. She has been a tour guide of her beloved home country, a teacher, a university lecturer and a playwright. She began writing fiction at the suggestion of her clients on tours, many of whom were sure all the stories she told them would make for a great book. Her first book, The Tour, has become a Number 1 bestseller on Amazon. It tells the story of a disparate group of American visitors to Ireland, who, along with their Irish tour guide have a life changing experience in the magical Emerald Isle.
Her second book, So Much Owed, is a family saga set during the Second World War. The story centres on the Buckley family of West Cork and how their lives are pulled in different directions as they become embroiled in the war. It is a sweeping family saga of intrigue and romance against the background of occupied Europe.
In her third novel, Shadow of a Century, she tells a tale of a battered old flag found in New York in 2016, a century after it was used during the Easter Rising, when Ireland made her final bid for freedom from Great Britain. This tells the story of a journalist who uncovers a story, one with much more to it than a flag.
Her fourth novel, due out in Spring 2016, Under Heaven’s Shining Stars, is set in the 1970s in Cork, Ireland and is a novel about friendship. Three boys, Liam, Patrick and Hugo, though from very different backgrounds are united in a deep but often times challenging friendship. As their lives progress, only by staying strong, can they prevail. Or fail.
Her novella, Letters of Freedom, tells the story of Carmel, stuck in a pointless marriage, when a figure from her past emerges and changes everything with a ‘like’ on Facebook. This quick read will touch your heart.
She lives in Cork with her husband and her two youngest children. The older two come home occasionally with laundry and to raid the fridge.
Her second book, So Much Owed, is a family saga set during the Second World War. The story centres on the Buckley family of West Cork and how their lives are pulled in different directions as they become embroiled in the war. It is a sweeping family saga of intrigue and romance against the background of occupied Europe.
In her third novel, Shadow of a Century, she tells a tale of a battered old flag found in New York in 2016, a century after it was used during the Easter Rising, when Ireland made her final bid for freedom from Great Britain. This tells the story of a journalist who uncovers a story, one with much more to it than a flag.
Her fourth novel, due out in Spring 2016, Under Heaven’s Shining Stars, is set in the 1970s in Cork, Ireland and is a novel about friendship. Three boys, Liam, Patrick and Hugo, though from very different backgrounds are united in a deep but often times challenging friendship. As their lives progress, only by staying strong, can they prevail. Or fail.
Her novella, Letters of Freedom, tells the story of Carmel, stuck in a pointless marriage, when a figure from her past emerges and changes everything with a ‘like’ on Facebook. This quick read will touch your heart.
She lives in Cork with her husband and her two youngest children. The older two come home occasionally with laundry and to raid the fridge.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 98 reviews
May 15, 2026
Read my full review on Rosepoint Publishing.
I love the storytelling, the witticisms, and the Irish sense of humor that grace the pages of the author’s novels.
“…her face will take her further than her feet.”
This narrative follows Orla, Jeannie, and Safira and trades off chapters between them as they are developed. They each have vastly different life experiences.
Jeannie wanted to be a writer. Orla finds her life upended with the announcement of her husband’s leaving for younger pastures.
Safira, from Bali, is still baffled by many of the traditions of the Irish, but has her heart set on a goal she is working to achieve.
There are several other close support characters, but the main character really is the Dunmara House. Once Safira has it cleaned and positioned for operation, she’ll need help. And it won’t be the oily antagonist who also envisions the property.
This book started out a bit slow for me. The characters become interconnected in a positive way but felt like there were moments of déjà vu with the plot.
The author is quite the storyteller and can weave in elements of family drama, love and betrayal, and the descriptive scenes and that Irish sense of humor keep me coming back. This is a nice start to a new series. 4.5 stars
Many thanks to the author for providing me with the opportunity to read and review this book. The thoughts expressed here are my own.
I love the storytelling, the witticisms, and the Irish sense of humor that grace the pages of the author’s novels.
“…her face will take her further than her feet.”
This narrative follows Orla, Jeannie, and Safira and trades off chapters between them as they are developed. They each have vastly different life experiences.
Jeannie wanted to be a writer. Orla finds her life upended with the announcement of her husband’s leaving for younger pastures.
Safira, from Bali, is still baffled by many of the traditions of the Irish, but has her heart set on a goal she is working to achieve.
There are several other close support characters, but the main character really is the Dunmara House. Once Safira has it cleaned and positioned for operation, she’ll need help. And it won’t be the oily antagonist who also envisions the property.
This book started out a bit slow for me. The characters become interconnected in a positive way but felt like there were moments of déjà vu with the plot.
The author is quite the storyteller and can weave in elements of family drama, love and betrayal, and the descriptive scenes and that Irish sense of humor keep me coming back. This is a nice start to a new series. 4.5 stars
Many thanks to the author for providing me with the opportunity to read and review this book. The thoughts expressed here are my own.
April 24, 2026
Exciting New Series
I couldn’t wait to read Ms. Grainger’s newest book. And it’s everything I had hoped for! New characters, an entirely different plot line, yet all the familiar Irish history and beautiful writing style that has made Grainger’s works my favorite. I could not put this book down until finished (sorry family, but not sorry!). I love the perspective from the four women and am eager to learn even more about them, as well as some new characters. I can’t wait!!
I couldn’t wait to read Ms. Grainger’s newest book. And it’s everything I had hoped for! New characters, an entirely different plot line, yet all the familiar Irish history and beautiful writing style that has made Grainger’s works my favorite. I could not put this book down until finished (sorry family, but not sorry!). I love the perspective from the four women and am eager to learn even more about them, as well as some new characters. I can’t wait!!
April 27, 2026
Another great book and start of a journey
I hate waiting especially when I’m waiting for the next Jean Granger book. I have already became friends with the characters, their problems, their quirks, and their spirit. I am amazed every time a new set of characters are introduced and the interesting and caring way the stories are woven. If Walls Could Talk is the beginning of another rollercoaster read with a unique perspective by Jean Granger.
I hate waiting especially when I’m waiting for the next Jean Granger book. I have already became friends with the characters, their problems, their quirks, and their spirit. I am amazed every time a new set of characters are introduced and the interesting and caring way the stories are woven. If Walls Could Talk is the beginning of another rollercoaster read with a unique perspective by Jean Granger.
June 6, 2026
Really enjoyed this book and looking forward to the next one to further the characters. Early on figured where Orla’s story was headed. Great story telling.
April 23, 2026
In If Walls Could Talk, the first character to speak is the house, Dunmarra! I found it a fascinating introduction to this sweeping saga. Ms. Grainger flawlessly merges the past with the present as she reveals her characters' lives. These fully fleshed out characters are ones I want to know more about so I am delighted that there will be more books. It is amazing to me how the author created these intertwined histories and even has guest appearances from other series. I am never ready to reach the end of a Jean Grainger novel!
May 16, 2026
I can't wait for book 2!
My very first Grainger read and I wasn't disappointed. Now, to wait for the 2nd book to be released! What to read in the meantime....
My very first Grainger read and I wasn't disappointed. Now, to wait for the 2nd book to be released! What to read in the meantime....
June 19, 2026
The main character of this new series is the Dunmara House in Ireland. It is hundreds of years old built in 1689 and has seen many people and events within its walls.
There are three stories in this book. The characters lead very different lives, but they converge at Dunmara. The other two books in this series are The Rector's Daughter and Flour and Stone. They aren't published yet.
Orla never loved her farmer husband, Bernard Moriarty, but they had a daughter and two sons, and she expected to stay in the marriage for life. The children have grown and moved back home when one day, her husband informs her that he is moving in with his younger secretary. He will continue working on the farm, but Orla and their offspring can live in the farmhouse. By the way, he has had two other children, one in London.
Jeannie lives in Connecticut and attends Yale University studying to be a novelist.Her father was furious because she was pregnant with Luis baby, who was a soldier in Vietnam. Dunmara was a home for unwell mothers, so Jeannie was sent there to have her baby away from home.
Jeannie befriends Johnnie the gardener. She tells him about Luis and how he loved school, but when he was drafted, he wouldn't take student deferment because he felt that he should serve his country, even though he didn't agree with the war in Vietnam. Luis wrote often to her when he was in training, but once he deployed, he stopped communicating.
Jeannie became pregnant when Luis showed up at Yale with shorn hair and a uniform. He was on leave before he deployed. He didn't know where he was going to be sent. He had come a long way to spend only one day with her and it was the happiest day of Jeannie's life. She wrote to tell him about the baby, but she didn't know if he got the letter because he was sent to Vietnam.
Jeannie finally got a letter from a buddy of Luis telling her that he had been killed. Her mother wrote to tell her that her father would not accept the baby in his house. She begged her only friend johnny to take her baby. His wife Ursula couldn't have a child. They did take the baby and named her Orla. Johnny loved Orla, but Ursula never did. She finally told Orla when she was on her death bed that they were not her parents.
Safira is renting a dilapidated Dunmara. She is from the Philippines, but she likes the Irish people and plans to make it home. The house was elegantly renovated and maintained . She saved every penny to use for fixing up the house. After she worked all day, she would spend most of the evening working in Dunmara. She sewed all of the linens for the bedrooms herself.
I liked her story of how she had a major disagreement with her parents. Her father disowned her and her mother went along with his decision. Her mother was dying, so her brother asked her to return to see her on her death bed, but she decided not to spend her precious money when her mother didn't really care if she saw her daughter.
Ireland was similar to Bali because of the wet weather, but the cold would be hard to tolerate by her countryman. Safira had a friendship with the owner, Christopher of a health food shop in town. He appreciated alternative medicine which her father was famous for in Bali and around the world. Safira had always believed that she would take over her father's business, but he gave it to one of his trainees because she was a woman and she was supposed to marry instead. She felt betrayed and deeply hurt to this day. She found a job in Ireland and left her family forever.
This dream project for Dunmara House was something that she and her father had planned for years. If safira made their project a reality, she hoped that her father would finally be proud of her, even if he was no longer alive.
She sold her special tea blends to the store and he ordered the special Asian spices that she craved for her cooking. Cream, butter and cheese disrupted her system because she was used to coconut milk and nuts for protein.
It was interesting to read about the cultural differences between Ireland and Bali . People were much more direct at home, whereas Irishmen were often very indirect and evasive.
Safirra taught Orla in her yoga class. One day Orla saw Safira cleaning Dunmara House. Safira told her about her dream of using the house for a wellness retreat. People could learn about eating healthy, growing natural food, yoga, breathing and healthy cooking. Also, meditation, writing and batik, woodworking and painting would be taught. Safira asked Orla if she would teach a writing course about poetry and the history of Dunmara House. She couldn't pay Orla, but she could take other classes.
Orla loved the idea. Her friend Audrey could teach sculpture, pottery and painting. Safira named her establishment Dunmara Escapes, deeply rooted in Balinese traditions of life affirming activities for clients to enjoy.
Larry and his daughter Ruth Kennedy were a diabolical team of developers who ruined historical property in the past. They were trying to buy Dunmara House and the land to build . Safira was only renting so if they purchased it Safira's project would be lost. She had a three year lease though, so she had time to earn money for a mortgage to purchase the property.
Christopher, the health food store owner volunteered to help her with advertising. They realized that they had been in love for awhile now. Ruth had tricked safira into spending money for advertising, but she never actually set it up.
The author refers to characters in her other series. For example, Orla's daughter Cliona was dating Joe OShea, Colin OShea's son from Castle Dysert.
There are three stories in this book. The characters lead very different lives, but they converge at Dunmara. The other two books in this series are The Rector's Daughter and Flour and Stone. They aren't published yet.
Orla never loved her farmer husband, Bernard Moriarty, but they had a daughter and two sons, and she expected to stay in the marriage for life. The children have grown and moved back home when one day, her husband informs her that he is moving in with his younger secretary. He will continue working on the farm, but Orla and their offspring can live in the farmhouse. By the way, he has had two other children, one in London.
Jeannie lives in Connecticut and attends Yale University studying to be a novelist.Her father was furious because she was pregnant with Luis baby, who was a soldier in Vietnam. Dunmara was a home for unwell mothers, so Jeannie was sent there to have her baby away from home.
Jeannie befriends Johnnie the gardener. She tells him about Luis and how he loved school, but when he was drafted, he wouldn't take student deferment because he felt that he should serve his country, even though he didn't agree with the war in Vietnam. Luis wrote often to her when he was in training, but once he deployed, he stopped communicating.
Jeannie became pregnant when Luis showed up at Yale with shorn hair and a uniform. He was on leave before he deployed. He didn't know where he was going to be sent. He had come a long way to spend only one day with her and it was the happiest day of Jeannie's life. She wrote to tell him about the baby, but she didn't know if he got the letter because he was sent to Vietnam.
Jeannie finally got a letter from a buddy of Luis telling her that he had been killed. Her mother wrote to tell her that her father would not accept the baby in his house. She begged her only friend johnny to take her baby. His wife Ursula couldn't have a child. They did take the baby and named her Orla. Johnny loved Orla, but Ursula never did. She finally told Orla when she was on her death bed that they were not her parents.
Safira is renting a dilapidated Dunmara. She is from the Philippines, but she likes the Irish people and plans to make it home. The house was elegantly renovated and maintained . She saved every penny to use for fixing up the house. After she worked all day, she would spend most of the evening working in Dunmara. She sewed all of the linens for the bedrooms herself.
I liked her story of how she had a major disagreement with her parents. Her father disowned her and her mother went along with his decision. Her mother was dying, so her brother asked her to return to see her on her death bed, but she decided not to spend her precious money when her mother didn't really care if she saw her daughter.
Ireland was similar to Bali because of the wet weather, but the cold would be hard to tolerate by her countryman. Safira had a friendship with the owner, Christopher of a health food shop in town. He appreciated alternative medicine which her father was famous for in Bali and around the world. Safira had always believed that she would take over her father's business, but he gave it to one of his trainees because she was a woman and she was supposed to marry instead. She felt betrayed and deeply hurt to this day. She found a job in Ireland and left her family forever.
This dream project for Dunmara House was something that she and her father had planned for years. If safira made their project a reality, she hoped that her father would finally be proud of her, even if he was no longer alive.
She sold her special tea blends to the store and he ordered the special Asian spices that she craved for her cooking. Cream, butter and cheese disrupted her system because she was used to coconut milk and nuts for protein.
It was interesting to read about the cultural differences between Ireland and Bali . People were much more direct at home, whereas Irishmen were often very indirect and evasive.
Safirra taught Orla in her yoga class. One day Orla saw Safira cleaning Dunmara House. Safira told her about her dream of using the house for a wellness retreat. People could learn about eating healthy, growing natural food, yoga, breathing and healthy cooking. Also, meditation, writing and batik, woodworking and painting would be taught. Safira asked Orla if she would teach a writing course about poetry and the history of Dunmara House. She couldn't pay Orla, but she could take other classes.
Orla loved the idea. Her friend Audrey could teach sculpture, pottery and painting. Safira named her establishment Dunmara Escapes, deeply rooted in Balinese traditions of life affirming activities for clients to enjoy.
Larry and his daughter Ruth Kennedy were a diabolical team of developers who ruined historical property in the past. They were trying to buy Dunmara House and the land to build . Safira was only renting so if they purchased it Safira's project would be lost. She had a three year lease though, so she had time to earn money for a mortgage to purchase the property.
Christopher, the health food store owner volunteered to help her with advertising. They realized that they had been in love for awhile now. Ruth had tricked safira into spending money for advertising, but she never actually set it up.
The author refers to characters in her other series. For example, Orla's daughter Cliona was dating Joe OShea, Colin OShea's son from Castle Dysert.
May 17, 2026
If Walls could Talk
Jean Grainger
Review
I would rate the novel as4 out of 5 as the novel was shrouded with emotion,pain and sufferings of a women of whose years .of marriage spent for 30 years hoping to reconcile her marriage but the fate has led her to stay with her husband compromising with the three children but the husband was not understanding ,very cruel,shrewd ,unlovalble ,were attracted towards younger girls hadnan extra affairs that runined the marriage completely and she was living in a broken marriage making herself understand that one day good sense will prevail over husband and the marriage could be fixed up but the everything turned pale and vain when she came to know about the affairs of husband and her illegimate child
The novel took place in the place of Dunmara ,city of Ireland which has seasideviews and attract tourist .every year Tourist came to the place for watching sightseeing and landscape near the seaview. Orla Moriarty was born in Ireland in the city Dunmara,she was very kind and innocent but as a girlchild she was not getting love from her mother Ursula .the mother never supported and always scold her for no mistakes done . . She got married with her mother’s choice to the men named Bernard Moriarty.he was a rich man got luxury items and got farms for farming. Her marriage always remain toxic .she was living in a very uncanny and painful relationship as her husband had drawn attraction towards younger girls whereas the so many years passed on say thirty years of marriage though she never complained for anything to her husband,boring the silent pain ,adjusting ,compromising with three children .the elder one Cliodhna was too uppity, Naoise too lazy and Ferdia was useless because he had no interest in farming. Cliodhna was grown up aged 21 years school teacher for fourth standard students.Ferdia was interested in job and had a very good working job and earn handsomely . She had a best friend named Audrey who married to businessmen Gavin .She had one son Bruce and daughter Amelia ,who were friends toOrla ‘s children .Both friends worked together go for family outing support each other and it was her friend who informed about orla’s husband affairs to her .when she found her husband at hotel room with one girl friend .and her husband had also another affair with Paula O leary who was a hairdresser and had salon in local town .Bernard wanted to marry Paula leaving her wife forever and children also .He got attracted to Paula and had and an extra marital relationship with him .once he got caught up in a school when he was making a love to councellor .and the councellor left the school and town forever but he had an illegimate child of 4 years in a town .All these secrets of husband were revealed by her wife ‘sbest friend Audrey who was also sad for her friend she had a talents of making painting and she helped her for writing stories and became a first reader for her upcoming books .she felt happy with her friend company she forgot the pain and sufferings ,the bonds of love developed the friendship in a much wider way and their love was eternal but the husband of Orla wanted to leave her wife forever and stay with her new girlfriend Paula.
Jean Grainger
Review
I would rate the novel as4 out of 5 as the novel was shrouded with emotion,pain and sufferings of a women of whose years .of marriage spent for 30 years hoping to reconcile her marriage but the fate has led her to stay with her husband compromising with the three children but the husband was not understanding ,very cruel,shrewd ,unlovalble ,were attracted towards younger girls hadnan extra affairs that runined the marriage completely and she was living in a broken marriage making herself understand that one day good sense will prevail over husband and the marriage could be fixed up but the everything turned pale and vain when she came to know about the affairs of husband and her illegimate child
The novel took place in the place of Dunmara ,city of Ireland which has seasideviews and attract tourist .every year Tourist came to the place for watching sightseeing and landscape near the seaview. Orla Moriarty was born in Ireland in the city Dunmara,she was very kind and innocent but as a girlchild she was not getting love from her mother Ursula .the mother never supported and always scold her for no mistakes done . . She got married with her mother’s choice to the men named Bernard Moriarty.he was a rich man got luxury items and got farms for farming. Her marriage always remain toxic .she was living in a very uncanny and painful relationship as her husband had drawn attraction towards younger girls whereas the so many years passed on say thirty years of marriage though she never complained for anything to her husband,boring the silent pain ,adjusting ,compromising with three children .the elder one Cliodhna was too uppity, Naoise too lazy and Ferdia was useless because he had no interest in farming. Cliodhna was grown up aged 21 years school teacher for fourth standard students.Ferdia was interested in job and had a very good working job and earn handsomely . She had a best friend named Audrey who married to businessmen Gavin .She had one son Bruce and daughter Amelia ,who were friends toOrla ‘s children .Both friends worked together go for family outing support each other and it was her friend who informed about orla’s husband affairs to her .when she found her husband at hotel room with one girl friend .and her husband had also another affair with Paula O leary who was a hairdresser and had salon in local town .Bernard wanted to marry Paula leaving her wife forever and children also .He got attracted to Paula and had and an extra marital relationship with him .once he got caught up in a school when he was making a love to councellor .and the councellor left the school and town forever but he had an illegimate child of 4 years in a town .All these secrets of husband were revealed by her wife ‘sbest friend Audrey who was also sad for her friend she had a talents of making painting and she helped her for writing stories and became a first reader for her upcoming books .she felt happy with her friend company she forgot the pain and sufferings ,the bonds of love developed the friendship in a much wider way and their love was eternal but the husband of Orla wanted to leave her wife forever and stay with her new girlfriend Paula.
July 13, 2026
📖 BOOK REVIEW: If Walls Could Talk by Jean Grainger ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Jean Grainger is a favorite author of mine and she did NOT disappoint with this one 🙌
This book follows 4 families, and Jean's character development is just chef's kiss 👨🍳💋 as always. We get multiple POVs throughout, but she always makes it crystal clear who's speaking with each switch - so you're never sitting there confused trying to figure out whose head you're in 🧠
It's also told across 2 timelines, and the switches are so well-placed that the story flows instead of feeling chopped up ✂️❌. More than once I got so wrapped up in one MC's storyline that when it jumped back to another, I actually thought "wait, I forgot about them - I NEED to know what's happening now" 😳📚
Bonus for Jean's longtime readers: there are a few name drops of characters from her other series sprinkled in, so you get a little treat while you're reading 👀🎁
And of course, Jean does what she does best, takes a real setting and a moment in Irish history and weaves it seamlessly into the story. It feels so natural that you're fully immersed, like you're standing right there watching it all unfold 🇮🇪✨
Then there's a twist near the end that you will NOT see coming 😱 And the way it all wraps up? You're left feeling satisfied with the ending but SO impatient for the next book in the series 😩➡️📖
Easy 5 stars. If you're already a Jean Grainger fan, this one's for you. If you're not yet... what are you waiting for? 👇
Jean Grainger is a favorite author of mine and she did NOT disappoint with this one 🙌
This book follows 4 families, and Jean's character development is just chef's kiss 👨🍳💋 as always. We get multiple POVs throughout, but she always makes it crystal clear who's speaking with each switch - so you're never sitting there confused trying to figure out whose head you're in 🧠
It's also told across 2 timelines, and the switches are so well-placed that the story flows instead of feeling chopped up ✂️❌. More than once I got so wrapped up in one MC's storyline that when it jumped back to another, I actually thought "wait, I forgot about them - I NEED to know what's happening now" 😳📚
Bonus for Jean's longtime readers: there are a few name drops of characters from her other series sprinkled in, so you get a little treat while you're reading 👀🎁
And of course, Jean does what she does best, takes a real setting and a moment in Irish history and weaves it seamlessly into the story. It feels so natural that you're fully immersed, like you're standing right there watching it all unfold 🇮🇪✨
Then there's a twist near the end that you will NOT see coming 😱 And the way it all wraps up? You're left feeling satisfied with the ending but SO impatient for the next book in the series 😩➡️📖
Easy 5 stars. If you're already a Jean Grainger fan, this one's for you. If you're not yet... what are you waiting for? 👇
Review of advance copy received from Author
What a lovely concept for a contemporary novel. The opening and closing done in the omniscient narrator of the house was so appealing to me - a lovely appreciation for buildings with history, and the idea that we can imbue history and meaning into our dwellings that lives on. I am invested in these strong characters, both female and male, that come together to paint a picture of village life in Ireland from a variety of viewpoints. Jean Grainger creates characters that are fully fleshed out and could easily be one's neighbour or community member. The writing flows so smoothly that even though I knew it was getting close to the end of the book, I finished reading wanting more - more Orla, more Safira, more Jeannie, more Audrey (plot twist!) - more everyone, including glimpses/mentions of well loved characters like Mags and the O'Sheas. The storyline from the past was well done, no confusions of settings or timeline, yet integrated so well with the present day storylines. I so appreciate the creativity and abilities of wonderful writers like Jean Grainger that make reading so pleasurable and thought provoking in a gentle way.
April 23, 2026
This book deserves more than 5 stars...
I thought the Knocknashee series couldn’t be beaten…I was wrong! This brilliant author seems to have an unending supply of stories to share.
Jean Grainger’s eloquent writing style invites the reader to laugh and cry as a member of the wider community of Dunmara, and to identify fully with the main characters as they struggle with life-altering decisions.
The prologue is masterfully written from the perspective of Dunmara House detailing its history and the threats to its future, followed by an intricately woven ‘dual time’ storyline with links gradually being revealed.
The book focuses on four women, each with complex histories, beginning with Jeannie, a ‘child’ of the 70s; present-day best friends Orla and Audrey both dealing, albeit with very different attitudes, with the decisions of their families, and finally, newcomer to Ireland, Safira, who plans to restore the town’s neglected landmark.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I thought the Knocknashee series couldn’t be beaten…I was wrong! This brilliant author seems to have an unending supply of stories to share.
Jean Grainger’s eloquent writing style invites the reader to laugh and cry as a member of the wider community of Dunmara, and to identify fully with the main characters as they struggle with life-altering decisions.
The prologue is masterfully written from the perspective of Dunmara House detailing its history and the threats to its future, followed by an intricately woven ‘dual time’ storyline with links gradually being revealed.
The book focuses on four women, each with complex histories, beginning with Jeannie, a ‘child’ of the 70s; present-day best friends Orla and Audrey both dealing, albeit with very different attitudes, with the decisions of their families, and finally, newcomer to Ireland, Safira, who plans to restore the town’s neglected landmark.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Review of advance copy received from Author
As usual ‘If The Walls Could Talk’ the latest story of Jeans did not disappoint me.
When an author chooses to write a story that introduces a new style, that is very different to her past books, it’s courageous but it allows the readers to see how one of their favourite authors is evolving with their writing style and skills.
As you read about characters from different decades that have lived or had a connection with Dunmarra, it’s interesting and intriguing how they are all intertwined.
Jean also brings in past characters from previous books that readers will recognise. Quite a feat to work it all out, I would say.
However, in my humble opinion as one of Jeans Advance Readers from the close to the start of her fictional literacy journey, it was a leap of faith that I believe will pay off for her readers both old and new.
I excitedly look forward to the next two books in the series.
When an author chooses to write a story that introduces a new style, that is very different to her past books, it’s courageous but it allows the readers to see how one of their favourite authors is evolving with their writing style and skills.
As you read about characters from different decades that have lived or had a connection with Dunmarra, it’s interesting and intriguing how they are all intertwined.
Jean also brings in past characters from previous books that readers will recognise. Quite a feat to work it all out, I would say.
However, in my humble opinion as one of Jeans Advance Readers from the close to the start of her fictional literacy journey, it was a leap of faith that I believe will pay off for her readers both old and new.
I excitedly look forward to the next two books in the series.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Another winner from J Grainger! Quite a different story this time with split time lines but very intriguing.
Orla Moriarty who lives in lovely Dunmara has the biggest bombshell dropped on her that you can imagine after many years of marriage. Her husband Bernard is leaving after cheating on her and not just once.
So ... Orla has no choice but to carry on and make the best of her life . She has a good friend Audrey who will support her through it all.
We travel back to the 1970s when Jeannie from America was living at Dunmara House. She became friends with the local gardener/handyman Johnny and he was a great comfort to her when she needed someone to talk to.
This story packs so much in and I became engrossed in the lives of Orla, Jeannie, Johnny and Audrey which all evolved round the House. There is much more to come in Book 2. You need tissues out as their individual stories are told.
I cannot wait for Book 2.
Thankyou Jean for your impeccable story telling. Yet another winner!
Orla Moriarty who lives in lovely Dunmara has the biggest bombshell dropped on her that you can imagine after many years of marriage. Her husband Bernard is leaving after cheating on her and not just once.
So ... Orla has no choice but to carry on and make the best of her life . She has a good friend Audrey who will support her through it all.
We travel back to the 1970s when Jeannie from America was living at Dunmara House. She became friends with the local gardener/handyman Johnny and he was a great comfort to her when she needed someone to talk to.
This story packs so much in and I became engrossed in the lives of Orla, Jeannie, Johnny and Audrey which all evolved round the House. There is much more to come in Book 2. You need tissues out as their individual stories are told.
I cannot wait for Book 2.
Thankyou Jean for your impeccable story telling. Yet another winner!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Oh, how I would love to explore the beautiful Dunmara house, and walk around the property, and listen to all the words that are being whispered out from the walls. This story has many interesting characters from Jeanne, Orla, Bernard, Paula, the hairdresser, Audrey, Gavin, Safira from Bali, and all the other interesting characters from their homes and their small town. Are they all Irish? No way! Are they all part of Dunmara and it's interesting spots? Definitely. This clever author interweaves her characters and their personalities in a brilliant fashion to keep us wondering and reading, and when it comes to Bernard, sometimes laughing out loud.
Well-done and a story you will want to follow in future books in the series.
Well-done and a story you will want to follow in future books in the series.
June 26, 2026
I really enjoyed this book, the beginning of a 3 book series, the second of which will be released on June 30, 2026. It takes place in the present day (and in earlier times which mesh into the present by the end of the book). It even references the Mags Munroe and The Tour series! These were my favorites. It tells the story a some present day families, along with the story of a young pregnant woman who is staying at a home for pregnant girls in Dunmara, a former mansion. The current day mansion, in very poor condition, is being rehabbed by an Indian woman, yoga instructor, who rented it, but the potential owner, an obnoxious businessman, is trying to take it and raze the building. I am looking forward to getting the second volume as soon as it is available.
July 23, 2026
The imagery delights as always. Ireland is magical, and the way the author presents this gorgeous country is engaging. However, in this story, the number of timelines and the numerous characters make plot continuity challenging and bog down the forward progress of the plot. Or maybe the setup is taking too long. I am left trying to figure out how it all hangs together to the detriment of my enjoyment of the story. I don't know. Maybe it's just me. If my experience changes as I get farther into the story, I will change my review.
I want to say that I am a fan of the author. I've enjoyed most of what she's written. What I'm experiencing with this story is not my usual response to Jean Grainger's books.
I want to say that I am a fan of the author. I've enjoyed most of what she's written. What I'm experiencing with this story is not my usual response to Jean Grainger's books.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Here's another one of Jean Graingers wonderful stories.
I just read the last page with a heartfelt sigh and flood of emotion from a story well told and a new world of lovely characters and their endearing lives. What a wonderful balance of completion and questions yet to be answered!
I love the way different fields ae blended into the one story. I love the holistic and spiritual aspect in woven into this one.
I'm sure that this is the birth of another very very successful series and I can't wait for the next installment!
Thank you Jean for bringing a few hours of escape to troubled world 🙏
I just read the last page with a heartfelt sigh and flood of emotion from a story well told and a new world of lovely characters and their endearing lives. What a wonderful balance of completion and questions yet to be answered!
I love the way different fields ae blended into the one story. I love the holistic and spiritual aspect in woven into this one.
I'm sure that this is the birth of another very very successful series and I can't wait for the next installment!
Thank you Jean for bringing a few hours of escape to troubled world 🙏
July 6, 2026
I have read all of the books written by this author, and found them all engaging. The books were sometimes humorous, sometimes serious, sometimes an opportunity to learn about historical events. I always looked forward to a new book, and this new series seemed like a very interesting concept- a house telling the story of the people and happenings within its walls. I thought it started well and I was able to keep up with the time frames and characters, but at some point I became overwhelmed and lost track of the multiple stories. It might have been a better read for me if I had been able to read for longer stretches but I was busier than usual and unable to do that.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Even though this was a bit of a departure from Jean’s usual style, If Walls Could Talk was a fantastic read! I really loved the dual timelines and switching between different characters' points of view—it made the story feel so much more layered and immersive without being hard to follow. The characters themselves are authentic and fascinating; they felt like real people I was just dropping in on. She truly has a talent for drawing the reader in. Of course, true to her style, Jean leaves us with an open ending that definitely has me wanting more!
April 28, 2026
Oh. My. Gosh!
I can’t believe it’s over!!! I truly love all this author’s books and series (read in order).
I could not put this new book, beginning a new series, down and was so enthralled with the story that when I turned the page to Epilogue I was so disappointed!
This is a beautiful book with such rich characterizations that I wanted to climb in the book and spend time with them. Can’t wait for the next one!!!
I can’t believe it’s over!!! I truly love all this author’s books and series (read in order).
I could not put this new book, beginning a new series, down and was so enthralled with the story that when I turned the page to Epilogue I was so disappointed!
This is a beautiful book with such rich characterizations that I wanted to climb in the book and spend time with them. Can’t wait for the next one!!!
May 12, 2026
This is exactly like reading season one of a prestige evening soap opera TV show (in a beautiful setting). There are multiple story lines. Good characters and bad characters. Mysteries in the character's pasts. Long story short, I enjoyed it, but probably won't continue in the series now that I know what's what. I don't mind series, but I like a complete story arc in each book. This one left us with some cliffhangers.
May 14, 2026
4.5 stars
Dunmara House in county Clare, Ireland has been the observer and protector of all its inhabitants since 1689.
When Safira rents the house to start a holistic centre she asks friends Orla and Audrey to help her.
Each of them has a secret to deal with.
This is a very accessible story with likeable main characters. On one occasion I didn't think the chosen development was likely, but I still enjoyed it a lot.
Dunmara House in county Clare, Ireland has been the observer and protector of all its inhabitants since 1689.
When Safira rents the house to start a holistic centre she asks friends Orla and Audrey to help her.
Each of them has a secret to deal with.
This is a very accessible story with likeable main characters. On one occasion I didn't think the chosen development was likely, but I still enjoyed it a lot.
May 19, 2026
A Lot of Filler
This book was well written, but I felt there was a lot of writing just for the sake of filler. We learned early on the ugly side of some characters, and the author never let us forget. Mostly the story was about Dunmara , Ireland and Orla. But to be honest, I was glad when it ended, even without resolution. If there is a follow up book, I probably won’t read it.
This book was well written, but I felt there was a lot of writing just for the sake of filler. We learned early on the ugly side of some characters, and the author never let us forget. Mostly the story was about Dunmara , Ireland and Orla. But to be honest, I was glad when it ended, even without resolution. If there is a follow up book, I probably won’t read it.
May 21, 2026
Different, but interesting
As an avid fan of Jean Grainger, (I’ve read all of her books) this one was definitely different. The beginning was confusing. The characters getting established was very conflicting for me. However, about midway thru I finally figured out the established characters and I sighed a relief. Oh, theres the Jean Grainger characters I’m familiar with! But, I did like it and plan to read on!
As an avid fan of Jean Grainger, (I’ve read all of her books) this one was definitely different. The beginning was confusing. The characters getting established was very conflicting for me. However, about midway thru I finally figured out the established characters and I sighed a relief. Oh, theres the Jean Grainger characters I’m familiar with! But, I did like it and plan to read on!
June 19, 2026
Walls Do Talk
A whole new cast of characters with choice references to old friends who I hope to see as this series progresses! The epilogue is filled with more foreshadowing. Loose threads are bound to be tied up. I hope the best for Audrey and that she returns soon with family intact. And when will Jeannie arrive. Will it before Orla writes the book of Dunmara?
Dear Jeanne, Write faster!
A whole new cast of characters with choice references to old friends who I hope to see as this series progresses! The epilogue is filled with more foreshadowing. Loose threads are bound to be tied up. I hope the best for Audrey and that she returns soon with family intact. And when will Jeannie arrive. Will it before Orla writes the book of Dunmara?
Dear Jeanne, Write faster!
June 23, 2026
Another riveting tale
Absolutely loved this book- the characters are so complex and beautifully portrayed. Their stories emotionally complex and compelling, timelessly spanning generations. It kept me awake reading much later than I meant to be and I was so disappointed when book 1 ended and book 2 is not to be released until the end of the month- I would have easily binge read them all! Another treasure!
Absolutely loved this book- the characters are so complex and beautifully portrayed. Their stories emotionally complex and compelling, timelessly spanning generations. It kept me awake reading much later than I meant to be and I was so disappointed when book 1 ended and book 2 is not to be released until the end of the month- I would have easily binge read them all! Another treasure!
July 13, 2026
as always, a delight!
Jean’s books are so full of warmth and truth & everyday occurrences, that to read them is to become a part of her Irish community. This new series is written from the perspective of a building, but home for quite a variety of people, over the years. She incorporates history, both hard & loving times, but mostly how much richer our lives can be with a community to share with. You will turn the last page of book 1 & find you want to immediately start on the 1st page of book 2!
Jean’s books are so full of warmth and truth & everyday occurrences, that to read them is to become a part of her Irish community. This new series is written from the perspective of a building, but home for quite a variety of people, over the years. She incorporates history, both hard & loving times, but mostly how much richer our lives can be with a community to share with. You will turn the last page of book 1 & find you want to immediately start on the 1st page of book 2!
July 13, 2026
a great read
The
Is tale revolving around a house is quite compelling, as each of the stories of the different characters emerge. This is one of the better Jean Grainger books in my opinion, as the style drip-feeds each story bit by bit, making this quite a page turner. Some of the Grainger books are just a wandering tale, but this one has real substance. Can’t wait to read the next one to see how things turn out - the end is a bit of a cliff hanger
The
Is tale revolving around a house is quite compelling, as each of the stories of the different characters emerge. This is one of the better Jean Grainger books in my opinion, as the style drip-feeds each story bit by bit, making this quite a page turner. Some of the Grainger books are just a wandering tale, but this one has real substance. Can’t wait to read the next one to see how things turn out - the end is a bit of a cliff hanger
July 28, 2026
🏡 This took a little while to pull me in, but once the connections between Jeannie’s 1969 story and Orla’s present-day upheaval began to click, I was completely invested. Dunmara House is easily the star full of history, secrets, and just enough atmosphere without becoming gloomy. I loved the Irish warmth and dry humor, and the women felt messy, stubborn, and believable. A cosy, emotional start to the series, though the ending definitely leaves you wanting the next book.
April 27, 2026
Fascinating Perspective
Have we ever given much thought to the history that has happened exactly where we live? My mom grew up in the same house that I did. But who were the occupants from 1915 to 1940? Who were the natives that lived there before Europeans invaded? That's the premise of Jean Grainger's latest series. I eagerly await Book 2!
Have we ever given much thought to the history that has happened exactly where we live? My mom grew up in the same house that I did. But who were the occupants from 1915 to 1940? Who were the natives that lived there before Europeans invaded? That's the premise of Jean Grainger's latest series. I eagerly await Book 2!
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