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Ghost of the Gaelic Moon
A Ghostly Romance tangled with an ancient druidic powerCan a woman from Minnesota find love with an Irish ghost or will the dark manipulations of his former lover keep them apart?Mysterious images haunt her dreams…Mary Kelley, international IT director by day, paranormal investigator by night, is sent on a business trip to Ireland where she is stunned to feel as if she’s come home. Her vivid dreams of a mysterious, captivating Irish man reawaken powerful psychic abilities buried deep within her, but meeting the man in her dreams is unnerving because he seems so familiar. Despite her best efforts she falls in love with Sean, not discovering the secrets of his past and The Gaelic Moon until it is too late.He wasn’t looking for a lover…Sean Calhoun swore off relationships at an early age when the affair of his youth turned tragic. As a high-profile Irish businessman, he spent his free time relaxing with friends at the ancient, local pub The Gaelic Moon. When he meets Mary, feelings he thought long dead awaken within, and he finds himself falling in love with her. But he is haunted by his past and an ex-lover who practices the dark arts.When a horrible misunderstanding forces them apart will the power of The Gaelic Moon be able to reunite them?Discover how Sean and Mary are intertwined with the fate and secrets of the oldest pub in Ireland, The Gaelic Moon – get your copy of Ghost of The Gaelic Moon today!
338 pages, Paperback
Published November 1, 2017
2 people are currently reading
10 people want to read
About the author
Carol Maschke
2 books7 followersCarol Maschke has a BA in English from Hamline University in St. Paul, Minnesota. She began writing stories as a child. It was a way to fuel her imagination and channel her creative energies into something tangible. She lives with her cairn terrier dogs in Minnesota and competes with her furry friends in conformation, agility, obedience and barnhunt.
For more information on upcoming books and other projects, please visit www.cairnmoon.com.
For more information on upcoming books and other projects, please visit www.cairnmoon.com.
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Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews
April 21, 2022
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Okay, so.
The story itself has some good foundation and good bones - the idea is VERY sound. A woman falls in love with a guy who then becomes a ghost so they need to overcome that if they want to be together.
That's all well and good, but there's a lot of additional plotholes along the way.
Plotlines seem to just disappear into thin air occasionally, or things are mentioned once but never again after, and the main character isn't exactly the most likeable person either, which is a shame. Mary HAD the makings of a really great character, but she was basically a pushover who let Paul boss her around and couldn't stand up for herself no matter what, not until the end in any event.
And the kicker here is that she KNOWS all the time that Paul is basically a creep and a possessive idiot, yet her excuse is that he's nice to her.
No, woman, no. That's him luring you in, how stupid can you get?
But aside from that, my issue with the book is more the writing style and the grammatical errors all around. I think it must be because this was an ARC not a published copy, because as I understand it, the author is an English major, which means they have a good grasp on the language, but there were errors in the use of tense, gender occasionally, words were missing, or parts of sentences would be missing. The editor had their work cut out for them, I think.
Also, I don't know why, but a lot of what was said or done in this book reminded me strongly of what you might see on television, in a rom-com, where things abruptly end or turn around, or someone says something and then the action or sequence cuts because it's such a witty line. I don't know if it was intentional, but it came across as a little bit weak in terms of the written medium, to me at least.
So all in all, this HAD potential, but between a lukewarm main character, the fact that you keep getting the feeling people use English like foreigners would, and different problems with the text makes me think I won't be picking up the sequel to this story.
It's a good story, don't get me wrong, just not great.
Okay, so.
The story itself has some good foundation and good bones - the idea is VERY sound. A woman falls in love with a guy who then becomes a ghost so they need to overcome that if they want to be together.
That's all well and good, but there's a lot of additional plotholes along the way.
Plotlines seem to just disappear into thin air occasionally, or things are mentioned once but never again after, and the main character isn't exactly the most likeable person either, which is a shame. Mary HAD the makings of a really great character, but she was basically a pushover who let Paul boss her around and couldn't stand up for herself no matter what, not until the end in any event.
And the kicker here is that she KNOWS all the time that Paul is basically a creep and a possessive idiot, yet her excuse is that he's nice to her.
No, woman, no. That's him luring you in, how stupid can you get?
But aside from that, my issue with the book is more the writing style and the grammatical errors all around. I think it must be because this was an ARC not a published copy, because as I understand it, the author is an English major, which means they have a good grasp on the language, but there were errors in the use of tense, gender occasionally, words were missing, or parts of sentences would be missing. The editor had their work cut out for them, I think.
Also, I don't know why, but a lot of what was said or done in this book reminded me strongly of what you might see on television, in a rom-com, where things abruptly end or turn around, or someone says something and then the action or sequence cuts because it's such a witty line. I don't know if it was intentional, but it came across as a little bit weak in terms of the written medium, to me at least.
So all in all, this HAD potential, but between a lukewarm main character, the fact that you keep getting the feeling people use English like foreigners would, and different problems with the text makes me think I won't be picking up the sequel to this story.
It's a good story, don't get me wrong, just not great.
December 11, 2017
An interesting love story
This is the time I've read Carol Maschke, and I don't know that I'll remember this novel. As a voracious reader, something has to be amazing to stick with me. This was neither horribly wrong or so good that I'll buy copies for everyone I know. The premise was sound and the characters had good foundations but I felt there were to many unanswered questions and plot holes left when I turned the last page. I can see what the author was trying to do by straddling the paranormal line without being overly in your face about it, but I think it leaves the story flat on both the romantic and paranormal sides. I did love how descriptive the author was when it came to Ireland and the lives of those who live there. It sounds like a very special place for the author. While this isn't my personal favorite, it's worth the read, it definitely got me thinking!
I was given an advanced readers copy and volunteered to review.
This is the time I've read Carol Maschke, and I don't know that I'll remember this novel. As a voracious reader, something has to be amazing to stick with me. This was neither horribly wrong or so good that I'll buy copies for everyone I know. The premise was sound and the characters had good foundations but I felt there were to many unanswered questions and plot holes left when I turned the last page. I can see what the author was trying to do by straddling the paranormal line without being overly in your face about it, but I think it leaves the story flat on both the romantic and paranormal sides. I did love how descriptive the author was when it came to Ireland and the lives of those who live there. It sounds like a very special place for the author. While this isn't my personal favorite, it's worth the read, it definitely got me thinking!
I was given an advanced readers copy and volunteered to review.
June 26, 2018
Liked the idea of the story, but it dragged on. I found Mary to be very immature and didn’t care for her character until 2/3 through the book. Being an English major, I found countless grammatical errors. I think with some editing, this story could be amazing.
July 20, 2022
When Mary moves to Ireland and finds the man of her dreams, literally, will they prove true love conquers all? Or will the find themselves torn asunder by poor communication and evil exes?
When Mary and her best friend Amy head off to Ireland for an extended assignment, Mary falls in love with the country and a certain red-head named Sean. Unfortunately, Sean has, for very good reason, sworn off relationships since he is separated, but not divorced from his wife, who is a real witch. Of course, Sean's marital status turns out to also be a huge issue for Mary.
I really wanted to love this book and enjoyed the bones of the story. I am curious to see where the author takes it, because she covered a LOT of ground in this complex tale of love and magic.
While I loved the main characters, Sean was often a total idjit. So, to counter-balance the stupidity, the author snuck in an awesome supporting cast. Like Mary's best friend Amy - who is truly a ride or die bestie and her fiancee Rob who is the big brother we all want. Also, I am a sucker for old ladies who see and understand far more than they let on and can't wait to meet Sean's Mam more.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
When Mary and her best friend Amy head off to Ireland for an extended assignment, Mary falls in love with the country and a certain red-head named Sean. Unfortunately, Sean has, for very good reason, sworn off relationships since he is separated, but not divorced from his wife, who is a real witch. Of course, Sean's marital status turns out to also be a huge issue for Mary.
I really wanted to love this book and enjoyed the bones of the story. I am curious to see where the author takes it, because she covered a LOT of ground in this complex tale of love and magic.
While I loved the main characters, Sean was often a total idjit. So, to counter-balance the stupidity, the author snuck in an awesome supporting cast. Like Mary's best friend Amy - who is truly a ride or die bestie and her fiancee Rob who is the big brother we all want. Also, I am a sucker for old ladies who see and understand far more than they let on and can't wait to meet Sean's Mam more.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
December 24, 2017
Ghost of the Gaelic Moon by Carol Maschke
What a wonderful story this was! I could not put it down but had to as dinner was put before me and my kindle taken out of my hands. Oh this story had me liking some of the characters a good deal and disliking immensely a few others. That shows what a well written novel it truly is. It takes place in Ireland and was as mystical and magic as I believe Ireland to be. There were many surprises along the way as I learned more about the characters.
I cannot possibly do justice in a few sentences but I can tell you that I truly enjoyed my time reading about this adventure as it unwound in Ireland including visits to the Gaelic Moon pub.
I received this book for free and voluntarily reviewed it. I hope many others are tempted to read this fantastic book as well, and run across the title or review while looking for something to read. You won't regret choosing this book.
What a wonderful story this was! I could not put it down but had to as dinner was put before me and my kindle taken out of my hands. Oh this story had me liking some of the characters a good deal and disliking immensely a few others. That shows what a well written novel it truly is. It takes place in Ireland and was as mystical and magic as I believe Ireland to be. There were many surprises along the way as I learned more about the characters.
I cannot possibly do justice in a few sentences but I can tell you that I truly enjoyed my time reading about this adventure as it unwound in Ireland including visits to the Gaelic Moon pub.
I received this book for free and voluntarily reviewed it. I hope many others are tempted to read this fantastic book as well, and run across the title or review while looking for something to read. You won't regret choosing this book.
May 5, 2023
I absolutely loved Ghost of the Gaelic Moon. Even though it is not advertised in the Gothic category I found it to have the flavor of my much loved seventies Gothic novels. In my opinion it is reminiscent of the gothic novels of Victoria Holt and Phyllis Whitney which are two of my all time favorite authors. I wish I could think of more modern day authors to compare with but until now I have not run across a really good gothic novel.
The setting appears to be modern day Ireland taking place in Dublin and a small Irish village. The supernatural aspect seems connected with an Irish pub called The Gaelic Moon which seems to be more than it appears. The descriptions are vivid. The characters are wonderful. The story slowly builds up to a captivating everlasting love affair. I am definitely reading the follow up story soon.
I did receive a review copy of this book which in no way influenced my opinion which is voluntarily given.
The setting appears to be modern day Ireland taking place in Dublin and a small Irish village. The supernatural aspect seems connected with an Irish pub called The Gaelic Moon which seems to be more than it appears. The descriptions are vivid. The characters are wonderful. The story slowly builds up to a captivating everlasting love affair. I am definitely reading the follow up story soon.
I did receive a review copy of this book which in no way influenced my opinion which is voluntarily given.
May 22, 2022
Better as it goes on
I had a bit of a hard time with the start of this book. Mary Kelley to me came across as a bit spoiled and whiney. As I got further into the story, she became more tolerable. The story has her as and IT director, and she and her co-worker and friend are sent to Ireland to work on a project for their company. The two get a flat to share and start going out in the evenings. While at a pub, Mary meets Sean Calhoun. The two seem to form a connection, but of course nothing is as it seems. For me the story got better at about the halfway point. The two main characters didn’t change much, but the story became more interesting, and the ending was very good. No grammatical errors, and well written, if you like a ghost or two in your reading, this book might be good for you. I probably will read the second book, and hope that the 2 main characters have grown up by then. I was given and ARC of the book by BookSirens, and this is my honest opinion.
I had a bit of a hard time with the start of this book. Mary Kelley to me came across as a bit spoiled and whiney. As I got further into the story, she became more tolerable. The story has her as and IT director, and she and her co-worker and friend are sent to Ireland to work on a project for their company. The two get a flat to share and start going out in the evenings. While at a pub, Mary meets Sean Calhoun. The two seem to form a connection, but of course nothing is as it seems. For me the story got better at about the halfway point. The two main characters didn’t change much, but the story became more interesting, and the ending was very good. No grammatical errors, and well written, if you like a ghost or two in your reading, this book might be good for you. I probably will read the second book, and hope that the 2 main characters have grown up by then. I was given and ARC of the book by BookSirens, and this is my honest opinion.
December 14, 2017
Gaelic moon
A fantastic love story full of spirits,good and evil. An American on assignment in Ireland falls for a local guy. Problem is there are multiple complications that keep throwing wrenches into their lives. The story is never dull and the characters are ones that are easy to like and easy to get mad at. So glad I read this book and I voluntarily review it. Enjoy reading this book.
A fantastic love story full of spirits,good and evil. An American on assignment in Ireland falls for a local guy. Problem is there are multiple complications that keep throwing wrenches into their lives. The story is never dull and the characters are ones that are easy to like and easy to get mad at. So glad I read this book and I voluntarily review it. Enjoy reading this book.
February 24, 2018
Loved this book! What a unique story about true love. Mary and her friend Amy are sent to Ireland to spend a few months working. Amy urges her friend to have a fling while she's there. In walks Sean and the magic begins! In the background, Sean's evil estranged wife, Maggie is doing all she can to get him back. I don't want to spoil the book by telling to much, but it has wonderful characters and a great story line. Well worth reading!
October 8, 2020
Mary Kelley, an American international IT director, goes to Ireland for work and immediately feels like this is where she belongs. At a pub she meets the lovely Sean Calhoun, an Irishman, who has a past he ignores sharing. Of course they fall in love, but witchcraft performed by Sean's ex-wife Maggie keeps interfering. Since I'm not into paranormal or witchcraft, I speed read through the book which had been lent to me.
November 24, 2025
I have taken a break from this book. I honestly did not finish this book. It was okay in the beginning. A fluffy romance develops between an Irish man and a woman who travels from Minnesota, USA to Ireland for work. But of course, there was something standing in the way of their relationship. I feel like this book just sort of drags on. I like the book up until the ghost part. That is sadly where I lost interest. I have it on pause, hoping I will try to finish it up someday.
April 12, 2022
This was a fantastic story! I just love ghost stories then add in a love element and you have a terrific mix of events that create an enjoyable book from page 1 till the end. I really enjoyed reading this book.
February 22, 2023
Emotionally tumultuous, Powerful, impactful, memorable.... It felt like I was reading beautiful poetry. This story is Intense, Riveting, unique, the writing is beautiful, Raw, poetic and soul crushing!.
November 28, 2017
This is a wonderful book.If you like ghost stories or love stories this is the book for you.
January 24, 2023
This was a new series that I just came across. I got to reading about Mary and her friends, their trip to Ireland for business, her sleazy boyfriend wanna be (you know the type, thinks all women want him and his $$ - NOT). Then she means Sean in Ireland - a couple meant to be. but boy, do they have problems!! Some funny, some sad, some scary... but all great writing.
Looking forward to next book in series :)
Looking forward to next book in series :)
April 11, 2022
This story was not what I expected! I thought I had it figured out, but then it twisted in a way I didn’t expect.
I enjoyed it very much! The ending was satisfying but left me asking questions. It had a good setup for future books.
I enjoyed it very much! The ending was satisfying but left me asking questions. It had a good setup for future books.
June 10, 2022
This is a romantic read with a paranormal twist. It is the second book in this series which I did not realize until I started reading it. It probably would have helped beginning with the first book to get a little bit better take on the characters and previous plot.
Sean is the ghost of Mary's recently deceased husband. A ghost she and her son can see but not touch. This seems to be a big sticking point in the story. Sean "goes away" to train how to be spirit, find out what his abilities may be and how to become corporeal so he can touch his family again.
In the mean time, Mary decides she is going to rebuild the pub that burned down in the human world but is still intact on the spiritual side - a sort of portal for ghosts. Her son is struggling at school and becoming unruly. Then the ghostly bartender/caretaker of the pub tells her she is a witch and he must train her.
This is where I got a little lost. It seemed as if ideas just kept getting thrown into the story as a afterthought. Mary can see and speak to ghosts...oh, and now she's a witch...huh? Maybe if I started with the first book, there may have been something in there hinting at this. I don't know.
The characters interactions seemed stilted...basic conversation, didn't always flow well and was repetitive at times. Also, I didn't really feel a connection to Sean and Mary. She spends most of the story complaining that he's away and she has to "do everything herself". Um...he died...at least she CAN see and speak to him. I get the struggles of single parenting but she came off as whiny instead of strong to me. I spent most of the book feeling sorry for Sean.
There is some drama with another witch, Sean's sister and brother-in-law, and curses that does add some intrigue to the story. Just what are all these curses and when will they appear? And the mysterious Bailey could have a good story behind him.
Overall, this light romantic read has its appeal and left the door open for more intrigue. Entertaining, but I would have liked a little more depth.
I received an ARC and am voluntarily leaving a review
Sean is the ghost of Mary's recently deceased husband. A ghost she and her son can see but not touch. This seems to be a big sticking point in the story. Sean "goes away" to train how to be spirit, find out what his abilities may be and how to become corporeal so he can touch his family again.
In the mean time, Mary decides she is going to rebuild the pub that burned down in the human world but is still intact on the spiritual side - a sort of portal for ghosts. Her son is struggling at school and becoming unruly. Then the ghostly bartender/caretaker of the pub tells her she is a witch and he must train her.
This is where I got a little lost. It seemed as if ideas just kept getting thrown into the story as a afterthought. Mary can see and speak to ghosts...oh, and now she's a witch...huh? Maybe if I started with the first book, there may have been something in there hinting at this. I don't know.
The characters interactions seemed stilted...basic conversation, didn't always flow well and was repetitive at times. Also, I didn't really feel a connection to Sean and Mary. She spends most of the story complaining that he's away and she has to "do everything herself". Um...he died...at least she CAN see and speak to him. I get the struggles of single parenting but she came off as whiny instead of strong to me. I spent most of the book feeling sorry for Sean.
There is some drama with another witch, Sean's sister and brother-in-law, and curses that does add some intrigue to the story. Just what are all these curses and when will they appear? And the mysterious Bailey could have a good story behind him.
Overall, this light romantic read has its appeal and left the door open for more intrigue. Entertaining, but I would have liked a little more depth.
I received an ARC and am voluntarily leaving a review
Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews