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Sandy Cove #2
Sisters of Willow House
A heart-warming novel about the bond between sisters, set along Ireland’s windswept shores, where romance beckons and secrets unfold…
Roisin McKenna and her husband Cian are taking time apart. Unsure of what she wants, Roisin’s prayers are answered when she receives a call from her sister Maeve who is desperate for her help.
Roisin heads to Sandy Cove to help Maeve restore their aunt’s gorgeous tumbledown mansion Willow House and soon all she has time to focus on are its crumbling walls. Despite a shocking announcement from Maeve and hidden secrets in the house’s rafters, Roisin begins to feel a sense of self she’s been missing for years.
The ties that bind Roisin to her husband seem to be unfurling in the Irish wind, when she unexpectedly stumbles into a mysterious man on the beach. Suddenly, she’s swept up in the idea of another life she could lead…
The restoration may have brought the sisters back together, but as a storm rolls over the coast Roisin feels sure she must make a choice. Will her time at Willow House teach her the precious lessons she needs to return home or has the cove called to her in ways she’d never imagined it could?
Roisin McKenna and her husband Cian are taking time apart. Unsure of what she wants, Roisin’s prayers are answered when she receives a call from her sister Maeve who is desperate for her help.
Roisin heads to Sandy Cove to help Maeve restore their aunt’s gorgeous tumbledown mansion Willow House and soon all she has time to focus on are its crumbling walls. Despite a shocking announcement from Maeve and hidden secrets in the house’s rafters, Roisin begins to feel a sense of self she’s been missing for years.
The ties that bind Roisin to her husband seem to be unfurling in the Irish wind, when she unexpectedly stumbles into a mysterious man on the beach. Suddenly, she’s swept up in the idea of another life she could lead…
The restoration may have brought the sisters back together, but as a storm rolls over the coast Roisin feels sure she must make a choice. Will her time at Willow House teach her the precious lessons she needs to return home or has the cove called to her in ways she’d never imagined it could?
276 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 26, 2019
3727 people are currently reading
621 people want to read
About the author
Susanne O'Leary
57 books380 followersSusanne O’Leary is the bestselling author of more than 30 novels, mainly romantic fiction set in Ireland. Her many books set in County Kerry have been hugely popular with readers all over the world. She shares her time between Dublin and Kerry, where she and her husband have a little cottage near the beach. The wild, beautiful landscape, the small villages and the friendly people of that county have inspired her to write her feel-good stories. She's been inspired to represent people of all ages and walks of life, with lots of romance, and more than a dash of humour.
When she is not writing or reading by the fire, Susanne loves heading for the great outdoors, walking on the beaches or scaling the green hills of her favourite county.
When she is not writing or reading by the fire, Susanne loves heading for the great outdoors, walking on the beaches or scaling the green hills of her favourite county.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 97 reviews
September 30, 2019
Sisters of Willow House by Susanne O’Leary is the second book in the contemporary Sandy Cove series. This second book of the series has changed it’s main character and features her own story so it could be read as a standalone if choosing to do so. However, for those that have read from the beginning you will notice the previous books characters are still here as secondary characters and get updates on where their story has gone since the end of the first book.
Roisin McKenna is the sister of Maeve McKenna who readers may have met in Sandy Cove’s first book. Maeve had come to visit their elderly aunt for a little vacation from her hectic job and instead found herself staying in Sandy Cove after finding love. Now in the middle of restoring Willow House Maeve is more than thankful to have her sister’s help.
Roisin is at a point in her life where she is unsure of her future and now unsure of her marriage. Roisin’s husband had come up with the grand plan of seeing the world in a camper van, not Roisin’s ideal trip, so the two decided on separate vacations when Roisin hears her sister need’s her help.
The first book of this series was way more into the romantic side than the second is but that was completely OK seeing how this was more family focused with some self discovery. The setting is just as beautiful along with some great secondary characters so this was just as enjoyable of a read as different as it was. If there is a book three I’d just request more of Aunt Philomena’s involvement.
I received an advance copy from the publisher via NetGalley.
For more reviews please visit https://carriesbookreviews.com/
Roisin McKenna is the sister of Maeve McKenna who readers may have met in Sandy Cove’s first book. Maeve had come to visit their elderly aunt for a little vacation from her hectic job and instead found herself staying in Sandy Cove after finding love. Now in the middle of restoring Willow House Maeve is more than thankful to have her sister’s help.
Roisin is at a point in her life where she is unsure of her future and now unsure of her marriage. Roisin’s husband had come up with the grand plan of seeing the world in a camper van, not Roisin’s ideal trip, so the two decided on separate vacations when Roisin hears her sister need’s her help.
The first book of this series was way more into the romantic side than the second is but that was completely OK seeing how this was more family focused with some self discovery. The setting is just as beautiful along with some great secondary characters so this was just as enjoyable of a read as different as it was. If there is a book three I’d just request more of Aunt Philomena’s involvement.
I received an advance copy from the publisher via NetGalley.
For more reviews please visit https://carriesbookreviews.com/
July 25, 2019
Having read the first book in the series, it was easy for me to get into the spirit of book 2. This was Roisin's story.
When her husband Cian got the camper van as a romantic getaway and named it Rita, his ex-girlfriend (an absolute no-no!!), she knew that things were at a breakpoint where her husband did not know what she wanted. They decided to go on a break with each other. He went off in the camper van with his best friend, and she moved to Sandy Cove to help her pregnant sister Maeve with the renovations of Willow House. But then came a complication known as Declan and Cian came back and Roisin had to decide what she wanted from her life.
Sussane O'Leary has written another beautiful book filled with emotions and turmoil. It was fun to see the ebb and flow between the two sisters. Roisin was an interesting character, I liked the way she was a bit bossy, a bit insecure but a whole lot of fun. There was a bit of mystery too when her personal life was splashed in media, and she had to get to the bottom of it. It brought a twist to the story too.
Susanne has done a beautiful job in describing Sandy Cove, I found myself constantly drawn to it. The relationships and friendships shown were quite heartwarming. This was a beautiful story of family, friendship, and marriage. It was a light read, but it was still filled with loads of emotions which touched my heart.
When her husband Cian got the camper van as a romantic getaway and named it Rita, his ex-girlfriend (an absolute no-no!!), she knew that things were at a breakpoint where her husband did not know what she wanted. They decided to go on a break with each other. He went off in the camper van with his best friend, and she moved to Sandy Cove to help her pregnant sister Maeve with the renovations of Willow House. But then came a complication known as Declan and Cian came back and Roisin had to decide what she wanted from her life.
Sussane O'Leary has written another beautiful book filled with emotions and turmoil. It was fun to see the ebb and flow between the two sisters. Roisin was an interesting character, I liked the way she was a bit bossy, a bit insecure but a whole lot of fun. There was a bit of mystery too when her personal life was splashed in media, and she had to get to the bottom of it. It brought a twist to the story too.
Susanne has done a beautiful job in describing Sandy Cove, I found myself constantly drawn to it. The relationships and friendships shown were quite heartwarming. This was a beautiful story of family, friendship, and marriage. It was a light read, but it was still filled with loads of emotions which touched my heart.
May 23, 2025
Sisters of Willow House #2 Sandy Cove
4.5 ✨
Roisins story
4.5 ✨
Roisins story
June 28, 2019
Actual rating: 3.5 stars
I received an ARC from the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Opinions are my own.
It was great fun to go back to Sandy Cove and spend some more time with the McKenna sisters in beautiful county Kerry. Having been to Killarney and Kenmare myself, makes reading this so much more fun. I only wish there'd been more of aunt Phil, though.
And I have to say, I liked the first book in the series a bit better. Maybe Maeve's story resonated more with me than Roisin's did. I really liked her, but she was a bit too naive and self-centered for my taste. She got really mad at her husband when she saw a picture of him with a pretty girl while she herself was going out to a fancy party with a handsome journalist that also happened to be her tv-hero. Even though Maeve told her not to let it drag on, she still did - and it cause lots of problems.
Declan (the journalist) on the other hand... him I disliked from the get-go. I had a bad feeling about him and the fact that he showed up everywhere, bumping into Roisin by accident, really irked me. I was kind of weary as to where the story was headed at first, but I know I should've trusted Susanne with this. The ending was very fitting and true to the characters, which made me smile. The epilogue did feel like the other book did; a warm hug. The way feel-good novels are supposed to be.
This is a story about love in all kinds of ways, it's about friendship and loyalty, about reconciliation and finding yourself. It was a very enjoyable read and I can highly recommend it to anyone who wants to dream away and find themselves in beautiful Ireland, surrounded by friendly townfolk, enjoying a cup of tea and a brilliant slice of lemon sponge from the Two Mary's Café.
I do hope Susanne will go back to Sandy Cove in a third novel. Maybe there can be a story about cousin Cordelia discovering her Irish roots? It would be lovely to see all the characters again. And I really want to know how things have turned out for both McKenna sisters.
I received an ARC from the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Opinions are my own.
It was great fun to go back to Sandy Cove and spend some more time with the McKenna sisters in beautiful county Kerry. Having been to Killarney and Kenmare myself, makes reading this so much more fun. I only wish there'd been more of aunt Phil, though.
And I have to say, I liked the first book in the series a bit better. Maybe Maeve's story resonated more with me than Roisin's did. I really liked her, but she was a bit too naive and self-centered for my taste. She got really mad at her husband when she saw a picture of him with a pretty girl while she herself was going out to a fancy party with a handsome journalist that also happened to be her tv-hero. Even though Maeve told her not to let it drag on, she still did - and it cause lots of problems.
Declan (the journalist) on the other hand... him I disliked from the get-go. I had a bad feeling about him and the fact that he showed up everywhere, bumping into Roisin by accident, really irked me. I was kind of weary as to where the story was headed at first, but I know I should've trusted Susanne with this. The ending was very fitting and true to the characters, which made me smile. The epilogue did feel like the other book did; a warm hug. The way feel-good novels are supposed to be.
This is a story about love in all kinds of ways, it's about friendship and loyalty, about reconciliation and finding yourself. It was a very enjoyable read and I can highly recommend it to anyone who wants to dream away and find themselves in beautiful Ireland, surrounded by friendly townfolk, enjoying a cup of tea and a brilliant slice of lemon sponge from the Two Mary's Café.
I do hope Susanne will go back to Sandy Cove in a third novel. Maybe there can be a story about cousin Cordelia discovering her Irish roots? It would be lovely to see all the characters again. And I really want to know how things have turned out for both McKenna sisters.
June 29, 2019
It was lovely to return to Willow House and catch up with what has been happening with Maeve since the previous book.
However the thrust of this book was the story between Roisin, Maeve's sister and Cian and how they are going to adjust to a new phase in their life. Their children are at boarding school, they have sold their joint business and come into an inheritance but things just seem awkward between them.
I really didn't have many feelings towards Cian at all, although key to the story he was also barely in most of the book. He had bought a camper van and gone off around the coast of Ireland in it with his best friend, while Roisin moves down to Sandy Cove to help Maeve with the renovations to Willow House.
So that all seems simple enough, married couple having an agreed break to discover new things about themselves, however things in fiction and in real life never go quiet according to plan, and there are other temptations at play.
I loved seeing Roisin arguing with the Kerry builders and trying to get building work to progress on Willow House. I also really enjoyed seeing the sister's dynamic up close - and this book is set a few years after the events of the previous one.
It can though easily be read as a standalone without much problem, as the main characters are different.
This is another enjoyable story from Susanne O'Leary, and I loved getting to know just what makes the area of Kerry in Ireland so different from the rest of the country!
Thank you to Bookouture for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily,
However the thrust of this book was the story between Roisin, Maeve's sister and Cian and how they are going to adjust to a new phase in their life. Their children are at boarding school, they have sold their joint business and come into an inheritance but things just seem awkward between them.
I really didn't have many feelings towards Cian at all, although key to the story he was also barely in most of the book. He had bought a camper van and gone off around the coast of Ireland in it with his best friend, while Roisin moves down to Sandy Cove to help Maeve with the renovations to Willow House.
So that all seems simple enough, married couple having an agreed break to discover new things about themselves, however things in fiction and in real life never go quiet according to plan, and there are other temptations at play.
I loved seeing Roisin arguing with the Kerry builders and trying to get building work to progress on Willow House. I also really enjoyed seeing the sister's dynamic up close - and this book is set a few years after the events of the previous one.
It can though easily be read as a standalone without much problem, as the main characters are different.
This is another enjoyable story from Susanne O'Leary, and I loved getting to know just what makes the area of Kerry in Ireland so different from the rest of the country!
Thank you to Bookouture for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily,
July 26, 2019
I thoroughly enjoyed the first book where the author tells Maeve's story. In this one the focus is on Maeve's sister Roisin.
Everybody's life changes through the years. It can be in your professional or private life or in both at the same time. Is it a bad thing? Of course not because finally you can do what you always wanted to but could not find the time for. And now time is on your side and you don't seem to find your feet.
You do not want to do something your heart is not into just to please someone else and vice versa. Why not do somehing on your own then? Is that a bad thing? Of course not. It gives you the chance to find out what you really want to do next.
There is a saying : When there are no photos, it did not happen, but does is necessarily mean that it happend when there are photos ...???
The bottom line is clear : true love conquers all!
The author wrote, once again, a very entertaining story. 5 stars.
Thank you, Susanne O'Leary, Bookouture and Netgalley.
https://bforbookreview.wordpress.com
Everybody's life changes through the years. It can be in your professional or private life or in both at the same time. Is it a bad thing? Of course not because finally you can do what you always wanted to but could not find the time for. And now time is on your side and you don't seem to find your feet.
You do not want to do something your heart is not into just to please someone else and vice versa. Why not do somehing on your own then? Is that a bad thing? Of course not. It gives you the chance to find out what you really want to do next.
There is a saying : When there are no photos, it did not happen, but does is necessarily mean that it happend when there are photos ...???
The bottom line is clear : true love conquers all!
The author wrote, once again, a very entertaining story. 5 stars.
Thank you, Susanne O'Leary, Bookouture and Netgalley.
https://bforbookreview.wordpress.com
July 26, 2019
My Rating: 4.5 Stars
Roisin McKenna and husband Cian married young and have three robust teenage boys who are currently in boarding school. Cian has hopes of traveling about in an his new campervan for months to give the couple a chance to reignite their love for one another. Roisin wants nothing of the sort and has told this to Cian many times. When her sister Maeve requests her help in a restoration project, Roisin jumps at the chance.
Maeve has been restoring their aunt's mansion, Willow House, but she is now pregnant and has been told to take it easy. There is a lot of work to be done and with their aunt on a book tour, Maeve needs a lot of help. Roisin gladly agrees to help and she and Cian look at this as an opportunity to spend time apart. Maybe Cian can have his traveling dream, while Roisin can use this time to help Maeve.
Roisin hopes that their sons can make Willow House their home base during school breaks, and is certain that she and Cian will see one another soon. When Roisin arrives in Sandy Cove, she quickly learns that the house is in really bad shape and she must contend with the unreliable builder. At the same time, there is a man that she meets who is also working with the same builder, and he and Roisin become very good friends.
Sisters of Willow House is the second book in the Sandy Cove series and it has a bit of everything. For starters, Roisin develops a strong bond with Declan O'Mahoney, the man she met with whom she has the contractor in common. In Roisin's mind, she was just on a break with Cian, so, despite how close she got to Declan, she strove to remain honorable. Meanwhile, Roisin and Maeve get to spend a lot of time together, and this goes a long way to strengthen their sisterly bond. As expected, Maeve shows proper concern for Roisin when it comes to Declan and this does add some tension between them.
There are misunderstandings along the way, especially when gossip enters into matters. I loved the journey that was set before readers of this delightful book and especially enjoyed how everything was resolved. Factor in the beauty of the setting in Sandy Cove and the people of Kerry and it all came together to make this a wonderful book. This is my third read by Susanne O'Leary and I absolutely loved it just as I have the previous titles that I read by her.
Many thanks to Bookouture and to NetGalley for this ARC to review in exchange for my honest opinion.
Roisin McKenna and husband Cian married young and have three robust teenage boys who are currently in boarding school. Cian has hopes of traveling about in an his new campervan for months to give the couple a chance to reignite their love for one another. Roisin wants nothing of the sort and has told this to Cian many times. When her sister Maeve requests her help in a restoration project, Roisin jumps at the chance.
Maeve has been restoring their aunt's mansion, Willow House, but she is now pregnant and has been told to take it easy. There is a lot of work to be done and with their aunt on a book tour, Maeve needs a lot of help. Roisin gladly agrees to help and she and Cian look at this as an opportunity to spend time apart. Maybe Cian can have his traveling dream, while Roisin can use this time to help Maeve.
Roisin hopes that their sons can make Willow House their home base during school breaks, and is certain that she and Cian will see one another soon. When Roisin arrives in Sandy Cove, she quickly learns that the house is in really bad shape and she must contend with the unreliable builder. At the same time, there is a man that she meets who is also working with the same builder, and he and Roisin become very good friends.
Sisters of Willow House is the second book in the Sandy Cove series and it has a bit of everything. For starters, Roisin develops a strong bond with Declan O'Mahoney, the man she met with whom she has the contractor in common. In Roisin's mind, she was just on a break with Cian, so, despite how close she got to Declan, she strove to remain honorable. Meanwhile, Roisin and Maeve get to spend a lot of time together, and this goes a long way to strengthen their sisterly bond. As expected, Maeve shows proper concern for Roisin when it comes to Declan and this does add some tension between them.
There are misunderstandings along the way, especially when gossip enters into matters. I loved the journey that was set before readers of this delightful book and especially enjoyed how everything was resolved. Factor in the beauty of the setting in Sandy Cove and the people of Kerry and it all came together to make this a wonderful book. This is my third read by Susanne O'Leary and I absolutely loved it just as I have the previous titles that I read by her.
Many thanks to Bookouture and to NetGalley for this ARC to review in exchange for my honest opinion.
November 19, 2019
After reading the first book in this series (the third book just came out), I wanted to return to the wonderful setting of Sandy Cove. I enjoyed this book which features Roisin as the main character, but I missed Phil. I kept wishing to see more of Maeve as well.
July 28, 2024
I really wanted to slap some sense into Roisin quite a few times. We don't hear about HER trying to keep in touch with her husband, but she's upset that he doesn't contact her! I don't have a whole lot of sympathy.
October 7, 2019
Sisters of Willow House: Sandy Cove Book 2 is written by Suzanne O’Leary. This book, like book one, is set in Ireland in a small town in Kerry. The descriptions of Ireland and the Kerry region are exactly right and make the reader want to visit this section of Ireland as well as follow the Ring of Kerry. The characters are very realistic and are so realistic they seem as if they are neighbors and friends. The struggle in the latter years of marriage are detailed in such a way that those who have been married longer can remember those days. The struggles are real and the options given are real options.
Roisin and Cian Moriarty had been married for 20 years and had three sons. They sold their business and upon their boys�� wishes had sent them to boarding school. For the first time in 20 years, they were alone and free. They had different ideas on how to spend the next years of their lives. Cian bought a campervan and intended to take off on a tour of Ireland and over to Europe. This had been a dream of his for years; but Roisin didn’t like camping at all. She wanted something different; but didn’t’ know what. A phone call from her sister, Maeve, telling her she was pregnant and that Maeve needed her help with the redoing of Willow House. The solution for Roisin and Cian was to separate for a while. He would take a long trip with his campervan with his best friend and Roisin would go to Kerry to help Maeve. So, for the first time in their marriage, they were going in different directions. Was this a mistake?
Roisin set about immediately taking charge of Willow House and attempting to get the contractor, Johnny O’Shea, to finish the house. Instead, he wanted to work on a new build. Eventually, he would return to Willow House; but not when Roisin wanted him. With the help of Declan O’ Mahony, another man needing Johnny to finish a job, she sets out to get Johnny to finish both their projects immediately. Would she be successful? Where would her friendship with Declan O’Mahony lead her?
This book is really good and keeps your interest throughout the book. Trying to figure out what Roisin is going to do next is interesting. How will she get out of the trouble she gets into?
Roisin and Cian Moriarty had been married for 20 years and had three sons. They sold their business and upon their boys�� wishes had sent them to boarding school. For the first time in 20 years, they were alone and free. They had different ideas on how to spend the next years of their lives. Cian bought a campervan and intended to take off on a tour of Ireland and over to Europe. This had been a dream of his for years; but Roisin didn’t like camping at all. She wanted something different; but didn’t’ know what. A phone call from her sister, Maeve, telling her she was pregnant and that Maeve needed her help with the redoing of Willow House. The solution for Roisin and Cian was to separate for a while. He would take a long trip with his campervan with his best friend and Roisin would go to Kerry to help Maeve. So, for the first time in their marriage, they were going in different directions. Was this a mistake?
Roisin set about immediately taking charge of Willow House and attempting to get the contractor, Johnny O’Shea, to finish the house. Instead, he wanted to work on a new build. Eventually, he would return to Willow House; but not when Roisin wanted him. With the help of Declan O’ Mahony, another man needing Johnny to finish a job, she sets out to get Johnny to finish both their projects immediately. Would she be successful? Where would her friendship with Declan O’Mahony lead her?
This book is really good and keeps your interest throughout the book. Trying to figure out what Roisin is going to do next is interesting. How will she get out of the trouble she gets into?
July 15, 2023
Shelved this 36% of way through. This book just didn't do it for me. Usually at this point, I'm hooked and can't stop reading but Roisins story still hasn't unfolded and the house renovation drama (if that's what you want to call it) is truly boring me. While Secrets of Willow House was a decent read, this one was unfortunately not my cup of tea. Maybe I'll try again at a later time because I would like to read all 6 books in the series. For now, I'm putting this on the back burner.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 21, 2019
Thanks to Netgalley for the advanced copy...
Aww, what a nice about the cool characters in the story...
Looking forward to read more book series from this author soon
Aww, what a nice about the cool characters in the story...
Looking forward to read more book series from this author soon
July 20, 2023
Excellent book!
July 29, 2019
Many years ago when I lived in Ireland the only books I read was from Irish authors. This is a great story that brought me back to those amazing authors.
Maeve asks her sister Roisin to help her restore their aunts mansion Willow House. Is a break from her husband what Roisin needs?
Great story with some really likeable characters. A feel good holiday read that I’ll certainly be recommending to others. I’m looking forward to reading more from this author.
Maeve asks her sister Roisin to help her restore their aunts mansion Willow House. Is a break from her husband what Roisin needs?
Great story with some really likeable characters. A feel good holiday read that I’ll certainly be recommending to others. I’m looking forward to reading more from this author.
December 11, 2022
Not as good as the first book in this series. Hope the next one is a little more exciting. Childish emotions and behaivour is not my idea of good reading…sorry on this one.
February 25, 2020
This book was not my cup of tea in the slightest. The plot was not engaging, the style of the prose was amateur, and I found the overall reading experience boring.
August 5, 2019
Roisin and Cian were married during university, and now with three teenaged sons, selling up their very successful business and an unexpected inheritance have plenty of time on their hands and enough disposable income to take a break. It’s been non-stop work and organization for the past twenty or so years, and while both needed a break – they are getting under one another’s feet. The extra money allowed for the boys to go to the boarding school they wanted, and the allure of “ladies who lunch” falls flat at Roisin’s feet. But, shortly after the new year, Cian arrives with his dream idea – a new campervan and plans to travel up the west coast of Ireland (a trip they have never done), while living ‘glamorously rough’. One problem: Roisin hates camping and since Cian had never told her about the plan for the campervan, and then named it Rita after his first girlfriend, her nose is most certainly out of joint. But relief comes in the form of Maeve, living at Sandy Cove with her husband Paschal and overseeing the renovations at Willow House while Aunt Phil is on a book tour in the states. Maeve is now pregnant, much to their delight, and he doctors have told her to stay off her feet and stay away from stress.
The renovations are the perfect project for Roisin to get stuck into: her penchant for timelines, deadlines and spreadsheets, and her ability to get people working to those deadlines will be the key to having the house completed. But Cian isn’t so keen. They decide that he and his friend Andrew will go off and explore the wilds of Ireland, seeing the sights while Roisin goes to Sandy Cove to manage construction and look after Maeve. And here things go left – as Sandy Cove villagers are more attuned to the goings on in town than one would expect, and Roisin has to both chase down the builder and find a way to get him to actually show up. With a new arrival in town: Declan, former RTE investigative reporter now under a cloud of ‘shame’ due to his expose on government officials. A favorite of Roisin’s – the two have an instant spark, which she passes off as friendship – Declan is interested in what she has to say, listens, challenges and intrigues her. And while he claims to only want friendship – she’s happy to fill that void.
Of course, there is no such thing as privacy when the paparazzi are around, and soon photos of Declan and Roisin, as well as the story of her ‘split’ with Cian and being in the company of womanizer Declan all lead to some sketchy stories and plenty of angst. Actually enough angst to have Cian contacting her for the first time in a while, although maintaining contact with his sons. A nasty winter storm, the boys on half-term break and Declan declaring both his interest and Roisin discovering his secrets, she’s feeling pretty low. Until the surprise arrival of Cian, a long talk, and ideas that flow like water as the two realize that the break they had, added to a rediscovering of their own needs, desires and commitment as a couple give them a lovely second chance at life. When you add in the ‘discovery’ of a new and unknown cousin, the imminent arrival of Maeve and Paschal’s baby, and the soon to be open boutique B & B at Willow House, the story held all of the charm of Ireland and family as the first, and promises so much more to come in the future.
I received an eArc copy of the title from the publisher via NetGalley for purpose of honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility.
Review first appeared at I am, Indeed
The renovations are the perfect project for Roisin to get stuck into: her penchant for timelines, deadlines and spreadsheets, and her ability to get people working to those deadlines will be the key to having the house completed. But Cian isn’t so keen. They decide that he and his friend Andrew will go off and explore the wilds of Ireland, seeing the sights while Roisin goes to Sandy Cove to manage construction and look after Maeve. And here things go left – as Sandy Cove villagers are more attuned to the goings on in town than one would expect, and Roisin has to both chase down the builder and find a way to get him to actually show up. With a new arrival in town: Declan, former RTE investigative reporter now under a cloud of ‘shame’ due to his expose on government officials. A favorite of Roisin’s – the two have an instant spark, which she passes off as friendship – Declan is interested in what she has to say, listens, challenges and intrigues her. And while he claims to only want friendship – she’s happy to fill that void.
Of course, there is no such thing as privacy when the paparazzi are around, and soon photos of Declan and Roisin, as well as the story of her ‘split’ with Cian and being in the company of womanizer Declan all lead to some sketchy stories and plenty of angst. Actually enough angst to have Cian contacting her for the first time in a while, although maintaining contact with his sons. A nasty winter storm, the boys on half-term break and Declan declaring both his interest and Roisin discovering his secrets, she’s feeling pretty low. Until the surprise arrival of Cian, a long talk, and ideas that flow like water as the two realize that the break they had, added to a rediscovering of their own needs, desires and commitment as a couple give them a lovely second chance at life. When you add in the ‘discovery’ of a new and unknown cousin, the imminent arrival of Maeve and Paschal’s baby, and the soon to be open boutique B & B at Willow House, the story held all of the charm of Ireland and family as the first, and promises so much more to come in the future.
I received an eArc copy of the title from the publisher via NetGalley for purpose of honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility.
Review first appeared at I am, Indeed
August 2, 2019
I read, reviewed and loved the first book in the Willow House series, which is called ‘Secrets Of Willow House’. I couldn’t wait to get hold of the next book in the series. Well the wait is over because ‘Sisters Of Willow House’ was released on 26th July 2019. It is a read and a half, which I adored but more about that in a bit.
I loved the characters in this book. The main focus of the story is Roisin. She is married although she and her husband are having marital problems. They agree to take some time out from each other. He takes off with his best friend and travel in a camper van, that he helpfully named after one of his ex-girlfriends. I mean how stupid is that. Anyway back to Roisin. She receives a call from her sister and before she knows what’s what, Roisin is on her way to help her pregnant sister, Maeve, with preparing for the baby and with renovating Willow House. Complications arise and suddenly Roisin has to decide what she wants to do with herself and who does she want to be with? Well for the answer to that question and more you are just going to have to read the book for yourselves to find out as I am not going to tell you.
It didn’t take me long at all to warm to Roisin and Maeve and in fact reading this book did make me feel as though I was reuniting with old friends. It didn’t take me long to get into the story either. I soon became addicted to reading this beautiful story and I couldn’t turn those pages fast enough. The more I read, the more I wanted to read and the quicker the pages seemed to turn as my desperation to find out what happened increased. All too quickly I reached the end of the story, which I was so disappointed about. I don’t mean that I was disappointed with the way in which the story ended, but I was enjoying the author’s writing, the characters and the storylines so much that I just wanted the book to continue.
‘Sisters Of Willow House’ is beautifully and brilliantly written but then I wouldn’t expect anything else from Susanne O’Leary. She draws you into the story from the first word and she dangles enough bait in front of your nose to keep your interest all the way through the book. You could say that the book had developed a hold over me and it was a hold that I didn’t want to break. The author uses such powerful and vivid descriptions that the characters seemed to spring to life and leap off the page as it were. I was completely taken with the story and I began to ‘live’ it as if it were real.
Reading this book did take me on a bit of an emotional rollercoaster ride with all the highs, lows, ups, downs and well you get the picture. It got to the stage where I was experiencing the different emotions of the various characters, at the same time that they were experiencing them. I hope that makes sense.
In short, I thoroughly enjoyed reading ‘Sisters Of Willow House’ and I would definitely recommend it to other readers. Susanne has done it again and written one hell of a read, which is sure to soar to the top of the bestsellers chart. I can’t wait to read what she comes up with next. The score on the Ginger Book Geek board is a very well deserved 5* out of 5*.
I loved the characters in this book. The main focus of the story is Roisin. She is married although she and her husband are having marital problems. They agree to take some time out from each other. He takes off with his best friend and travel in a camper van, that he helpfully named after one of his ex-girlfriends. I mean how stupid is that. Anyway back to Roisin. She receives a call from her sister and before she knows what’s what, Roisin is on her way to help her pregnant sister, Maeve, with preparing for the baby and with renovating Willow House. Complications arise and suddenly Roisin has to decide what she wants to do with herself and who does she want to be with? Well for the answer to that question and more you are just going to have to read the book for yourselves to find out as I am not going to tell you.
It didn’t take me long at all to warm to Roisin and Maeve and in fact reading this book did make me feel as though I was reuniting with old friends. It didn’t take me long to get into the story either. I soon became addicted to reading this beautiful story and I couldn’t turn those pages fast enough. The more I read, the more I wanted to read and the quicker the pages seemed to turn as my desperation to find out what happened increased. All too quickly I reached the end of the story, which I was so disappointed about. I don’t mean that I was disappointed with the way in which the story ended, but I was enjoying the author’s writing, the characters and the storylines so much that I just wanted the book to continue.
‘Sisters Of Willow House’ is beautifully and brilliantly written but then I wouldn’t expect anything else from Susanne O’Leary. She draws you into the story from the first word and she dangles enough bait in front of your nose to keep your interest all the way through the book. You could say that the book had developed a hold over me and it was a hold that I didn’t want to break. The author uses such powerful and vivid descriptions that the characters seemed to spring to life and leap off the page as it were. I was completely taken with the story and I began to ‘live’ it as if it were real.
Reading this book did take me on a bit of an emotional rollercoaster ride with all the highs, lows, ups, downs and well you get the picture. It got to the stage where I was experiencing the different emotions of the various characters, at the same time that they were experiencing them. I hope that makes sense.
In short, I thoroughly enjoyed reading ‘Sisters Of Willow House’ and I would definitely recommend it to other readers. Susanne has done it again and written one hell of a read, which is sure to soar to the top of the bestsellers chart. I can’t wait to read what she comes up with next. The score on the Ginger Book Geek board is a very well deserved 5* out of 5*.
July 15, 2019
Roisin and Cian find themselves at a loose end after they sell their successful business. With the children all happy in boarding school they are looking for their next project, something they can enjoy together now they have the time. Or so Roisin thought, until Cian came home with a Campervan that he named Rita after his first girlfriend. With Cian wanting to go travelling (something that fills Roisin with dread) and Roisin wanting to go to her aunt’s house to help her sister oversee the renovations, they decide the best thing to do is for them to each do what they want and have a little space.
Sisters of Willow House is the second book in the series, but you won’t have any trouble following this one if you have not read the first one. Roisin is quite a feisty character and really does like to take charge of things, so she has been struggling with not having anything to focus on. Despite this she does sometimes have bouts of self-doubt especially when it comes to Cian and the current state of their marriage. Her relationship with her sister is a very close one, however despite this even she challenges Roisin on the state of her marriage and questions if her new friendship with ex reporter Declan was as platonic as she tells everyone. As her personal life explodes onto the local press, you do have to wonder who is behind it all and the culprit may surprise you. The only good thing about it is that it gives Cian the kick up the backside needed to curtail his travels and finally meet up with his wife to sort out their lives once and for all.
As Roisin tackles everything head on she manages to re connect with old friends and make new ones that are certainly quite colourful but have her back when it matters most. The community of Sandy Cove certainly take care of their own and are quick to protect them from gossip.
Although this is the fist book in this series, I have read it is not the first one by this author. Once again, I was drawn into the beautiful locations within the book. Susanne O’Leary has a way of drawing you in to the characters and the settings making the books even more enjoyable. This one certainly explores friendships, family and what happens to a relationship when you start taking things for granted. This is definitely an enjoyable read and one that I would recommend.
Sisters of Willow House is the second book in the series, but you won’t have any trouble following this one if you have not read the first one. Roisin is quite a feisty character and really does like to take charge of things, so she has been struggling with not having anything to focus on. Despite this she does sometimes have bouts of self-doubt especially when it comes to Cian and the current state of their marriage. Her relationship with her sister is a very close one, however despite this even she challenges Roisin on the state of her marriage and questions if her new friendship with ex reporter Declan was as platonic as she tells everyone. As her personal life explodes onto the local press, you do have to wonder who is behind it all and the culprit may surprise you. The only good thing about it is that it gives Cian the kick up the backside needed to curtail his travels and finally meet up with his wife to sort out their lives once and for all.
As Roisin tackles everything head on she manages to re connect with old friends and make new ones that are certainly quite colourful but have her back when it matters most. The community of Sandy Cove certainly take care of their own and are quick to protect them from gossip.
Although this is the fist book in this series, I have read it is not the first one by this author. Once again, I was drawn into the beautiful locations within the book. Susanne O’Leary has a way of drawing you in to the characters and the settings making the books even more enjoyable. This one certainly explores friendships, family and what happens to a relationship when you start taking things for granted. This is definitely an enjoyable read and one that I would recommend.
July 24, 2019
Sisters of Willow House is a gentle and enjoyable story. The sisters of the title are Roisin and Maeve. Roisin and her husband Cian are at a bit of a crossroads in their relationship. At a relatively young age, they have sold their business making quite a lot of money in the process and their sons at all at boarding school. To be honest, they are both a little lost with no real idea what to do with their lives. Cian decides to fulfil an ambition of his, one which Maeve does not share. Instead, she goes to help her sister renovate Willow House, a rambling old house in Kerry which belongs to their aunt. While there she begins to question her marriage and what she wants in life.
I enjoyed the setting of the south west of Ireland and could easily imagine walking on the beautiful, windswept beaches and walking in the hills. When I was reading this was when we had quite violent overnight thunderstorms in mid-July so the description of the really wild storm that struck seemed all too real!
Roisin was a character who I warmed to. I liked her determination to persuade the builders that they really did need to get a move on with renovations! She did make some mistakes in her friendship with journalist Declan but it was really naivety and all spiralled a bit out of control. Olga the Russian plumber is worthy of a mention with her mistakes with the English language raising a smile on more than one occasion! I also really liked Maeve and the lovely relationship she had with her husband Paschal. I believe the first book in this series, Secrets of Willow House, focused on her.
Sisters of Willow House is about family and friendship and deciding what matters in life. It is a sweet and heart-warming read. I said above that it is the second in a series. I'm not sure if it is actually planned to be a series but I hope that the author will write more as I would like to know what happens next for the sisters, their aunt and Willow House.
I enjoyed the setting of the south west of Ireland and could easily imagine walking on the beautiful, windswept beaches and walking in the hills. When I was reading this was when we had quite violent overnight thunderstorms in mid-July so the description of the really wild storm that struck seemed all too real!
Roisin was a character who I warmed to. I liked her determination to persuade the builders that they really did need to get a move on with renovations! She did make some mistakes in her friendship with journalist Declan but it was really naivety and all spiralled a bit out of control. Olga the Russian plumber is worthy of a mention with her mistakes with the English language raising a smile on more than one occasion! I also really liked Maeve and the lovely relationship she had with her husband Paschal. I believe the first book in this series, Secrets of Willow House, focused on her.
Sisters of Willow House is about family and friendship and deciding what matters in life. It is a sweet and heart-warming read. I said above that it is the second in a series. I'm not sure if it is actually planned to be a series but I hope that the author will write more as I would like to know what happens next for the sisters, their aunt and Willow House.
August 2, 2019
I don't know what it is about books that are set in Ireland, but I haven't found many that I haven't thoroughly enjoyed. What is even better is if said book is written by an Irish author. I swear, storytelling is in their DNA and I love their turn of phrase!
Roisin is married to Cian, and when he comes home one day with a motorhome and wants to go exploring the countryside in it, she decides that they need a bit of a break and she goes to help her sister, Maeve, with the renovations of Willow House. Along the way, she meets some interesting characters and has to contend with searching her heart to figure out what she really wants. After 20 years of marriage, running a business, bringing up three boys etc, what direction is her life going in?
This was a lovely book, full of great descriptions of the Irish countryside (Kerry in particular) and a bit of a thinker. I mean, when you get to a certain stage of your life, have you achieved what you set out to achieve? Are you fulfilled? What does that mean, anyway?
I loved the characters and even though I read the first book in the series as well, this book can easily be read as a standalone. Highly recommended.
4.5 stars from me.
Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture.
Roisin is married to Cian, and when he comes home one day with a motorhome and wants to go exploring the countryside in it, she decides that they need a bit of a break and she goes to help her sister, Maeve, with the renovations of Willow House. Along the way, she meets some interesting characters and has to contend with searching her heart to figure out what she really wants. After 20 years of marriage, running a business, bringing up three boys etc, what direction is her life going in?
This was a lovely book, full of great descriptions of the Irish countryside (Kerry in particular) and a bit of a thinker. I mean, when you get to a certain stage of your life, have you achieved what you set out to achieve? Are you fulfilled? What does that mean, anyway?
I loved the characters and even though I read the first book in the series as well, this book can easily be read as a standalone. Highly recommended.
4.5 stars from me.
Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture.
May 15, 2024
The author is amazing! She continues to provide stories of people, some related, from Sandy Cove. These stories are unique and totally delightful! I highly recommend this series and this author.
Amazon synopsis:
Roisin McKenna and her husband Cian are taking time apart. Unsure of what she wants, Roisin’s prayers are answered when she receives a call from her sister Maeve who is desperate for her help.
Roisin heads to Sandy Cove to help Maeve restore their aunt’s gorgeous tumbledown mansion Willow House and soon all she has time to focus on are its crumbling walls. Despite a shocking announcement from Maeve and hidden secrets in the house’s rafters, Roisin begins to feel a sense of self she’s been missing for years.
The ties that bind Roisin to her husband seem to be unfurling in the Irish wind, when she unexpectedly stumbles into a mysterious man on the beach. Suddenly, she’s swept up in the idea of another life she could lead…
The restoration may have brought the sisters back together, but as a storm rolls over the coast Roisin feels sure she must make a choice. Will her time at Willow House teach her the precious lessons she needs to return home or has the cove called to her in ways she’d never imagined it could?
Amazon synopsis:
Roisin McKenna and her husband Cian are taking time apart. Unsure of what she wants, Roisin’s prayers are answered when she receives a call from her sister Maeve who is desperate for her help.
Roisin heads to Sandy Cove to help Maeve restore their aunt’s gorgeous tumbledown mansion Willow House and soon all she has time to focus on are its crumbling walls. Despite a shocking announcement from Maeve and hidden secrets in the house’s rafters, Roisin begins to feel a sense of self she’s been missing for years.
The ties that bind Roisin to her husband seem to be unfurling in the Irish wind, when she unexpectedly stumbles into a mysterious man on the beach. Suddenly, she’s swept up in the idea of another life she could lead…
The restoration may have brought the sisters back together, but as a storm rolls over the coast Roisin feels sure she must make a choice. Will her time at Willow House teach her the precious lessons she needs to return home or has the cove called to her in ways she’d never imagined it could?
June 25, 2019
Sisters of Willow House by Susanne O'Leary is the second in the Sandy Cove series. The delightful story is about family, loyalty, and commitments with a lot of romance. Roisin and her husband Cian seem to be at loose ends after selling their company and sending their teenaged sons to boarding school. Cian surprises Roisin with a huge camper van/ motorhome and tells her they are going touring and camping for the next few months. Roisin is appalled because she hates camping and refuses to agree with these new travel plans. So, they negotiate a compromise and Cian takes a buddy with him and starts on his camping adventure. Roisin's sister Maeve calls and asks her to please come help with the restoration project of Willow House. Roisin thinks this is the perfect solution for her empty days and heads to Sandy Cove. Soon Roisin is faced with more than she bargained for as problems with the building project begin to surface. Oh-No! More trouble shows up when Roisin begins an unexpected friendship with Declan O'Mahony and suddenly becomes the talk of the town!
Publication Date: July 26, 2019
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review this book.
Publication Date: July 26, 2019
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review this book.
May 26, 2020
Roisin and her husband Cian have sold their family business, rented out their home and shipped their three sons off to boarding school. With lots of time on their hands they decide to spend some of it pursuing their individual interests, separately. Cian and a buddy go off to tour the coast of Ireland in a brand new campervan. Roisin's newly pregnant sister Maeve has called, asking for Roisin's help with the remodeling of their aunt's home, The Willow House. Roisin loves a good project and she is in her element as she begins the supervision of this remodeling. Unfortunately, the builder takes some cajoling and sweet-talking to get certain things done and in the process of the cajoling, Roisin meets someone she's always admired from afar. Thus begins a brief, but enlightening journey of self-discovery for Roisin.
This was a pleasant read. The story is entertaining, somewhat predictable and the characters are only occasionally a bit ridiculous. A good beach read.
Thank you to Netgalley, the author Susanne O'Leary, and the publisher Bookouture for my free ARC in return for an honest review.
This was a pleasant read. The story is entertaining, somewhat predictable and the characters are only occasionally a bit ridiculous. A good beach read.
Thank you to Netgalley, the author Susanne O'Leary, and the publisher Bookouture for my free ARC in return for an honest review.
July 8, 2019
Roisin and her husband Cian have sold their business and are looking forward to the next phase of their life. Unfortunately they have different opinions about what comes next. When Cian comes home with a camper and plans to travel in it, Roisin isn’t to keep on it. After Roisin receives a call from her sister, Maeve, asking for her to help with the remodel of their Aunt’s house in Sandy Cove, Roisin decides it’s best if her husband does the camper trip with his best friend while she goes Sandy Cove.
Unfortunately, taking a break doesn’t always work out the way it was intended, as Roisin and Cian find out. Does love and family truly conquer all? Only Roisin and Cian can make that decision and life will change for their family no matter the outcome.
This was a truly sweet story and one that many women who have been married for such a long time can relate to. Sometimes the grass isn’t greener on the other side and we don’t always realize that until we lose what we had. Great setting for the story and an enjoyable read.
Unfortunately, taking a break doesn’t always work out the way it was intended, as Roisin and Cian find out. Does love and family truly conquer all? Only Roisin and Cian can make that decision and life will change for their family no matter the outcome.
This was a truly sweet story and one that many women who have been married for such a long time can relate to. Sometimes the grass isn’t greener on the other side and we don’t always realize that until we lose what we had. Great setting for the story and an enjoyable read.
November 20, 2022
Book 2 in the new series:
"Roisin McKenna and her husband Cian are taking time apart. Unsure of what she wants, Roisin’s prayers are answered when she receives a call from her sister Maeve who is desperate for her help.
Roisin heads to Sandy Cove to help Maeve restore their aunt’s gorgeous tumbledown mansion Willow House and soon all she has time to focus on are its crumbling walls. Despite a shocking announcement from Maeve and hidden secrets in the house’s rafters, Roisin begins to feel a sense of self she’s been missing for years.
The ties that bind Roisin to her husband seem to be unfurling in the Irish wind, when she unexpectedly stumbles into a mysterious man on the beach. Suddenly, she’s swept up in the idea of another life she could lead…
The restoration may have brought the sisters back together, but as a storm rolls over the coast Roisin feels sure she must make a choice. Will her time at Willow House teach her the precious lessons she needs to return home or has the cove called to her in ways she’d never imagined it could?"
synopsis copied
"Roisin McKenna and her husband Cian are taking time apart. Unsure of what she wants, Roisin’s prayers are answered when she receives a call from her sister Maeve who is desperate for her help.
Roisin heads to Sandy Cove to help Maeve restore their aunt’s gorgeous tumbledown mansion Willow House and soon all she has time to focus on are its crumbling walls. Despite a shocking announcement from Maeve and hidden secrets in the house’s rafters, Roisin begins to feel a sense of self she’s been missing for years.
The ties that bind Roisin to her husband seem to be unfurling in the Irish wind, when she unexpectedly stumbles into a mysterious man on the beach. Suddenly, she’s swept up in the idea of another life she could lead…
The restoration may have brought the sisters back together, but as a storm rolls over the coast Roisin feels sure she must make a choice. Will her time at Willow House teach her the precious lessons she needs to return home or has the cove called to her in ways she’d never imagined it could?"
synopsis copied
July 23, 2019
Roisin and her husband Cian are at loose ends- they are empty nesters AND they've sold their business. AND, how would you feel if your husband bought a camper, named it after his ex-girlfriend, and took off with a buddy? The time is right for Roisin to head to Sandy Cove to help her sister Maeve with the renovation of Willow House. If you read the first book, you know what Maeve has been dealing with but don't worry if you didn't because O'Leary will catch you up. There's some fun interaction between Roisin and the people who are supposed to be doing the work but better is the relationship between Maeve and Roisin. Declan seems like an interesting guy to Roisin, especially when she's down about Cian, but is it a wise idea to get close (really close) to him? He's a tad creepy to my mind but you have to let the characters find things out for themselves! Thanks to Netgalley for the ARC. A good read and I'd like to spend more time with these sisters.
April 17, 2020
Roisin is at a crossroads in her life, she and her husband Cian have sold their business, their sons are away at boarding school and she is feeling lost and without direction. Cian buys a camper van and wants her to go off with him in it but it is her worst nightmare and so they decide to spend some time apart and Roisin decides to go and help her sister Maeve in Sandy Cove renovating their aunt's beautiful old Willow House. How will the separation go though will it bring them back together or drive them apart..... and what about the gorgeous Declan will he throw a spanner in the works?
Great to be back in Sandy Cove and to catch up with Maeve, this is another good story bringing in more lovely characters and all set around the beautiful old house. Definitely a series that I recommend.
Great to be back in Sandy Cove and to catch up with Maeve, this is another good story bringing in more lovely characters and all set around the beautiful old house. Definitely a series that I recommend.
October 13, 2019
This is book 2 in the Sandy Cove series and can be read as a stand alone. Roisin is heading to Sandy Cove to help her sister, Maeve, restore their aunt's decaying home to its former glory. Set on the Irish Coast this is a story of family ties. Roisin and her husband have decided to take some time apart. He's just retired and has bought an RV so they can travel. Roisin hates the idea so he heads out alone while she's in Sandy Cove. I love the sisters and their interaction. Roisin's husband was sort of blah and a minor character that had a big role in the outcome of the story. Susanne O'Leary always writes about strong women and unusual settings. I received a copy of this ARC in exchange for a fair and honest review.
July 22, 2019
Roisin and her husband Cian are taking a break from their marriage when she gets in touch with the sister Mauve who needs help.
The goes back to Sandy Cove to help her save their aunts mansion Willow House.. While there secrets
surface and a new man shows in her life. She soon has to decide whether to go back and save her marriage or move on and make a new start.
Very heart warming book. This is the second book but can be read as a stand alone. I found it to be well written and the writer was able to make you visualize it in your mind wonderfully. Loved the characters and storyline. Worth reading.
The goes back to Sandy Cove to help her save their aunts mansion Willow House.. While there secrets
surface and a new man shows in her life. She soon has to decide whether to go back and save her marriage or move on and make a new start.
Very heart warming book. This is the second book but can be read as a stand alone. I found it to be well written and the writer was able to make you visualize it in your mind wonderfully. Loved the characters and storyline. Worth reading.
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