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Queenstown #2
The West's Awake
Queenstown, Co Cork. Ireland. 1916
Sixteen-year-old Harp Devereaux is growing up in a country in turmoil. Her mother Rose is struggling to navigate single parenthood, run the Cliff House, and stay out of the way of the authorities. Harp's uncle, Ralph Devereaux, has only one thing on his mind. The port of Queenstown bustles with activity as people traverse the Atlantic either in search of new lives on foreign shores or returning to old familiar ones in Ireland. The Cliff House is fast gaining a reputation as a wonderful place to stay, and the business is going from strength to strength. Rose and Harp have turned their fortunes around and for the first time they are prosperous and independent. But all is not well. Civil and military unrest across the country in the wake of the Easter Rising is threatening to bubble over, and everyone is on edge. The British soldiers are making their presence felt in unpleasant ways, and the return of Ralph Devereaux to what he sees as his ancestral home is poses a serious threat. Just as they are managing the situation, a series of unforeseen events places both Harp and her mother in grave peril. Ralph suddenly holds all the power and is not afraid to wield it. They desperately need help, and there's only one place they can go to get it.
From a tense Queenstown to the vibrant Irish community in Boston, from wartime Liverpool, to the streets of Dublin seething with revolution, The West's Awake continues the spellbinding Queenstown Story.
Sixteen-year-old Harp Devereaux is growing up in a country in turmoil. Her mother Rose is struggling to navigate single parenthood, run the Cliff House, and stay out of the way of the authorities. Harp's uncle, Ralph Devereaux, has only one thing on his mind. The port of Queenstown bustles with activity as people traverse the Atlantic either in search of new lives on foreign shores or returning to old familiar ones in Ireland. The Cliff House is fast gaining a reputation as a wonderful place to stay, and the business is going from strength to strength. Rose and Harp have turned their fortunes around and for the first time they are prosperous and independent. But all is not well. Civil and military unrest across the country in the wake of the Easter Rising is threatening to bubble over, and everyone is on edge. The British soldiers are making their presence felt in unpleasant ways, and the return of Ralph Devereaux to what he sees as his ancestral home is poses a serious threat. Just as they are managing the situation, a series of unforeseen events places both Harp and her mother in grave peril. Ralph suddenly holds all the power and is not afraid to wield it. They desperately need help, and there's only one place they can go to get it.
From a tense Queenstown to the vibrant Irish community in Boston, from wartime Liverpool, to the streets of Dublin seething with revolution, The West's Awake continues the spellbinding Queenstown Story.
278 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 13, 2021
3605 people are currently reading
529 people want to read
About the author
Jean Grainger
93 books1,630 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 186 reviews
June 14, 2021
Jean Grainger is a favorite writer of mine, and as others have said, her writing often reminds me a bit of Maeve Binchy, another favorite Irish author. This novel continues the saga of Rose Delaney and her daughter Harp Devereux, as well as Cliff House, the boarding house bequeathed to Harp by her claimed father and mentor Henry. There is much story and background here about the Easter Rising and the Irish republican movement afterwards, which I knew little about—despite having Irish ancestors. It is well-portrayed here. Part of this engaging storyline covers Harp’s own gradual involvement in the women’s support arm of the Irish freedom movement, her trip to see the Rafferty’s and JohnJoe in Boston, and her developing love for JohnJoe. Their love story is beautifully described. The return of Ralph Devereux to England and his evil attempts to control Rose, are compelling. The epilogue is stunning, and I can’t wait to read the final book of the series when it comes out. Sincere thanks to the author for an advance copy. Highly recommend to all.
November 22, 2024
The West’s Awake (Queensland Series #2) by Jean Grainger (Audiobook Read On Everand app)
Harp and her mother are still running the Cliff house but now they have a very unwelcome new guest, Harps uncle Ralph. He is content to eat their food, sleep in his room, and act as if they are his servants. There is no end to his scheming ways! but he’s in for a rude awakening when he tries to bully Rose too far, Harp with the help of their friends locally and in America rush to help them. Showing the true meaning of loyalty, friendship and overall a love for Ireland.
Beautifully written book but I would recommend reading book one in the series first. This book definitely needs the backstory to full appreciate it.
Harp and her mother are still running the Cliff house but now they have a very unwelcome new guest, Harps uncle Ralph. He is content to eat their food, sleep in his room, and act as if they are his servants. There is no end to his scheming ways! but he’s in for a rude awakening when he tries to bully Rose too far, Harp with the help of their friends locally and in America rush to help them. Showing the true meaning of loyalty, friendship and overall a love for Ireland.
Beautifully written book but I would recommend reading book one in the series first. This book definitely needs the backstory to full appreciate it.
July 29, 2025
Second in the series. Harp and her mother are living quietly and successfully running their boarding house in Queenstown Ireland but her creepy biological father has come to town and threatens their peaceful life. WWI and Ireland’s uprising is also starting to threaten their daily lives. Harp takes an opportunity to travel to America for a short visit and while she is gone things go awry at home. Good series but I’ll have to take a break as it feels like somethings I’ve read in the past. I’ll come back to the series.
May 11, 2022
Another great novel in the Queenstown series by Jean Grainger. The book takes place 4 years after the 1st book in the series and Harp is now 16 years old. There is a lot happening in this novel for Harp and Rose. Harp becomes involved with a group fighting for Irish independence and makes a trip to Boston where she is reunited with JohnJoe. However, right before her trip, a horrible event takes place that has long lasting repercussions for both Rose and Harp. Ralph Devereau also shows up again and becomes even more of a threat to Harp and Rose. I won't go any further in summarizing the plot to avoid spoiling it for others.
My favorite parts of the novel are the descriptions of Harp and her own realizations about herself. She is a marvelous character!
I read this as a kindle book and there was a sample of the next book in the series included. It definitely set the stage for more troubles in the future for Rose and Harp.
My favorite parts of the novel are the descriptions of Harp and her own realizations about herself. She is a marvelous character!
I read this as a kindle book and there was a sample of the next book in the series included. It definitely set the stage for more troubles in the future for Rose and Harp.
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October 12, 2021Irish Heritage
As a second generation American, I knew very little about Irish history before reading this novel. Loved the story as well. Hub
As a second generation American, I knew very little about Irish history before reading this novel. Loved the story as well. Hub
October 27, 2021
Good continuation of Harp's story with enough to keep one hooked and turning the pages.
June 29, 2022
I love this series! Book 2 was even better than book 1. Can’t wait to dive into book 3.
February 23, 2024
This is book two following The Last Port of Call and it tied up many plot points left unfinished from the first book. My curiosities have been answered and as much as I love the protagonist, Harp, I will not read the next in the series. Too many contrived lazy plot points here.
March 17, 2024
The epilogue brings with it a lot of suspense and prompts me to immediately want to read book 3. World War I is being fought and women’s domination is being fought and so is Irish independence. There is a lot going on and it’s all fascinating. And I finished reading this on Saint Paddy‘s day. How about that?
September 17, 2025
can't put it down.
November 7, 2024
I really love this series! The characters are complicated and it has plot twists that made me want to keep reading. Can’t wait to start the next book in the series.
July 26, 2021
The West's Awake the second in Jean Grainger's Queenstown series, is the continuation of the story of Rose and her daughter Harp who have faught to keep the Cliff House hotel afloat. Just as things seem to be going well, the manipulative Ralph Devereaux attempts to seize an opportunity to gain control over the house that Rose and Harp both love. In addition, things in Queenstown are in turmoil as England rages war on Germany, and the people of Ireland wish to gain independence from England. I was happy that characters from the first novel, especially JohnJoe and Danny were brought back. Harp's trip to Boston showed both her innocence and her bravery. The only thing that made me give the novelO a 4 instead of 5 star rating is that Molly O'Brien's character from the first novel was mentioned a number of times, and then it was like she was just forgotten. She was one of my favorites from the last novel, so I was hoping to read more about her. I hope that there is more about her in the third novel. I can't wait for it to come out, especially after reading the epilogue!
February 28, 2025
Another Grainger series that has me hooked! Easy to read after a long day (or before a long day) at work, with lovable characters, an interesting plot, all settled in the context of the burgeoning Irish battle for independence from Britain (a new era of historical fiction I am obsessed with lately). Onto book 3!
July 5, 2021
The West’s Awake: The Queenstown Series Book 2 is by Jean Grainger. This second book of the series is wonderful. It keeps you reading until the very end. The only complaint I might have is that I easily figured out what happened on the train so the information in the epilogue was not really needed. This is the only time I have been able to figure out what was going to happen before it did. Luckily, it didn’t affect the majority of the book.
Harp and her Mother, Rose, have taken Cliff House which Harp inherited from Henry Devereaux who stated in his will that Harp was his daughter, and turned it into a boarding house. They intended to appeal to the middle-class travelers who came to Queenstown to catch a ship usually to America. They didn’t interfere with the hotel which catered to the well-to-do- travelers nor to the boarding house which catered to the lower-class passengers. They were doing quite well although what profits they made were going back into the house for improvements. The only problem they really had was when Ralph Devereaux came home from India and insisted on staying in his family home. Since Ralph was really Harp’s Father and Ralph didn’t know that he was, Rose felt it necessary to let him stay there for no charge. However, this time, he was back earlier than normal and seemed to intend to stay much longer. Harp did her best to stay away from Ralph as well as the British officers who also stayed there.
Feelings were very high against the British since the Easter Uprising and the subsequent hanging of the Irish ringleaders. Harp wants to do something and with the help of the Devlin sisters, signs on to the ladies rebellion group to help. She is chosen to go to America to meet with the Irish there and bring back the funds they are raising for the rebellion. At sixteen, her Mother isn’t for this; but she is talked into it because Harp is going to stay with friends there and see the Irish flutist, Francis O’Neill. Meeting him on the first night she is in America makes her trip worthwhile. She even gets to play the harp and accompany him. Instead of the two weeks she intends to stay, she ends up cutting it short because she gets a letter telling her that her Mother is going to marry Ralph Devereaux. Instantly, she knows he had to be blackmailing her and she needs to get home to stop him.
It seems as if when one problem is close to being solved, another one pops up. The action just keeps going. This is another book which is very difficult to put down before you finish. Ironically, this book deals with Irish Independence and I sat down to read it on our Independence Day, July 4. I definitely had lots of time to just read and not have to stop. Now I am waiting patiently for the next book to come out in August.
Harp and her Mother, Rose, have taken Cliff House which Harp inherited from Henry Devereaux who stated in his will that Harp was his daughter, and turned it into a boarding house. They intended to appeal to the middle-class travelers who came to Queenstown to catch a ship usually to America. They didn’t interfere with the hotel which catered to the well-to-do- travelers nor to the boarding house which catered to the lower-class passengers. They were doing quite well although what profits they made were going back into the house for improvements. The only problem they really had was when Ralph Devereaux came home from India and insisted on staying in his family home. Since Ralph was really Harp’s Father and Ralph didn’t know that he was, Rose felt it necessary to let him stay there for no charge. However, this time, he was back earlier than normal and seemed to intend to stay much longer. Harp did her best to stay away from Ralph as well as the British officers who also stayed there.
Feelings were very high against the British since the Easter Uprising and the subsequent hanging of the Irish ringleaders. Harp wants to do something and with the help of the Devlin sisters, signs on to the ladies rebellion group to help. She is chosen to go to America to meet with the Irish there and bring back the funds they are raising for the rebellion. At sixteen, her Mother isn’t for this; but she is talked into it because Harp is going to stay with friends there and see the Irish flutist, Francis O’Neill. Meeting him on the first night she is in America makes her trip worthwhile. She even gets to play the harp and accompany him. Instead of the two weeks she intends to stay, she ends up cutting it short because she gets a letter telling her that her Mother is going to marry Ralph Devereaux. Instantly, she knows he had to be blackmailing her and she needs to get home to stop him.
It seems as if when one problem is close to being solved, another one pops up. The action just keeps going. This is another book which is very difficult to put down before you finish. Ironically, this book deals with Irish Independence and I sat down to read it on our Independence Day, July 4. I definitely had lots of time to just read and not have to stop. Now I am waiting patiently for the next book to come out in August.
February 15, 2026
The guest house is doing very well with British soldiers and land travelers filling in for the diminishing ship trade. Ship travel was reduced due to war activity in the area.
John Joe has been writing to Harp for four years since he moved to Boston to live with his aunt Cathy. He has become a handsome young man. Molly O'Reilly requested him to visit her at the convent. She has lost weight and seems unhealthy. She was always a large woman. He admitted that he is pining for Harp. John Joe has been helping in Boston with the Irish fight against British oppression.
Matt the undertaker, and Rose work together and seem romantically inclined. His son Brian and Harp are friends, but when he tried to kiss her, she pulled away in confusion. He fought with his father and told him that he had joined the army. Harp has repeatedly written to him but he never answered. They don't know if he is okay.
One of Ralph's obnoxious friends Captain Pennington has been saying provocative things to harass Harp. One night he came to her bedroom to rape her. She hit him with a statue and he died. Rose asked Matt Quinn to help and he buried the body in an empty grave. The British would have no leniency for an Irish girl.
Ralph comes frequently from India to stay in the best guest room. He demands service but never pays anything. He acts imperiously towards both women and they tolerate him out of fear that he will find out that Harp is not her uncle Henry's daughter so his will was invalid. Ralph may be an informer for the British against the Irish. He seems to always be broke, but they give him money and things.
Ralph is becoming a problem. He overheard Rose and Harp the night of her rape and he has blackmailed Rose into marrying him or he will report Pennington's murder to the British. Harp has been visiting John Joe and Danny in Boston. When she hears about the impending marriage, she decides to return to Ireland in order to prevent the marriage.
Harp meets some Boston IRA supporters who raise money for weapons. She is asked to hide the money in the lining of a fur coat to bring it to the IRA in Ireland.
Danny and John Joe travel with Harp to protect her and end up shooting Ralph and throwing him off the train. Everyone is relieved because Ralph was beating Rose and stealing their hard-earned money.
In the epilogue, a badly injured Ralph has gone back to India full of the desire for revenge.
John Joe has been writing to Harp for four years since he moved to Boston to live with his aunt Cathy. He has become a handsome young man. Molly O'Reilly requested him to visit her at the convent. She has lost weight and seems unhealthy. She was always a large woman. He admitted that he is pining for Harp. John Joe has been helping in Boston with the Irish fight against British oppression.
Matt the undertaker, and Rose work together and seem romantically inclined. His son Brian and Harp are friends, but when he tried to kiss her, she pulled away in confusion. He fought with his father and told him that he had joined the army. Harp has repeatedly written to him but he never answered. They don't know if he is okay.
One of Ralph's obnoxious friends Captain Pennington has been saying provocative things to harass Harp. One night he came to her bedroom to rape her. She hit him with a statue and he died. Rose asked Matt Quinn to help and he buried the body in an empty grave. The British would have no leniency for an Irish girl.
Ralph comes frequently from India to stay in the best guest room. He demands service but never pays anything. He acts imperiously towards both women and they tolerate him out of fear that he will find out that Harp is not her uncle Henry's daughter so his will was invalid. Ralph may be an informer for the British against the Irish. He seems to always be broke, but they give him money and things.
Ralph is becoming a problem. He overheard Rose and Harp the night of her rape and he has blackmailed Rose into marrying him or he will report Pennington's murder to the British. Harp has been visiting John Joe and Danny in Boston. When she hears about the impending marriage, she decides to return to Ireland in order to prevent the marriage.
Harp meets some Boston IRA supporters who raise money for weapons. She is asked to hide the money in the lining of a fur coat to bring it to the IRA in Ireland.
Danny and John Joe travel with Harp to protect her and end up shooting Ralph and throwing him off the train. Everyone is relieved because Ralph was beating Rose and stealing their hard-earned money.
In the epilogue, a badly injured Ralph has gone back to India full of the desire for revenge.
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January 9, 2023Wow! The West’s Awake is an incredible story that focuses on Irish independence (and private independence for certain women). I felt I learned a fair bit of what if must have been like to live under the British rule in Ireland. And how hard it was also for women at that time. I was deeply sympathetic to the characters and their challenges. I was pulled into the setting and story as though I was there!
In book two, Harp Devereaux really blossoms into a young woman who is very mature for her sixteen years. Also, her heart awakens to passion and love. As far as education, Henry’s influence continues to surface in her. The amount of literature she has learned through him is obvious but it further expands even in his absence. I love how she quotes passages from so many novels, plays, poems and other literary gems and applies them to circumstances she finds herself and others battling.
The plot thickens and events surrounding Ralph Devereaux heat up to a feverish pitch. Rose finds herself in more difficult predicaments and beholding to a man she hates. While Mr. Quinn, the one she cares for (and who deeply cares for her) continues to protect her as best he can.
In this novel, part way through, the setting shifts briefly from Ireland to Boston when Harp must make a potentially perilous journey. This passage was equally well described and fascinating. Plus, we get to see JJ and Danny from the first book and meet the generous aunt and uncle who took them in.
I really don’t want to give anything away as this story deserves far more praise than I can give it. It kept me pinned to the pages and on the edge of my seat with all the twists and turns. Jean Grainger has written a powerful story that is filled with heart, courage and determination and it challenges the meaning of moral code. Is killing ever right? Even while fighting for rights and during self-defence? I suppose that is the dilemma everyone faces with war and being under attack. Book two really ramps up the tension, mystery and mayhem and I am anxious to see what unfolds for this family and their friends in the next instalment. I loved this novel and highly recommend it. 5 Stars
In book two, Harp Devereaux really blossoms into a young woman who is very mature for her sixteen years. Also, her heart awakens to passion and love. As far as education, Henry’s influence continues to surface in her. The amount of literature she has learned through him is obvious but it further expands even in his absence. I love how she quotes passages from so many novels, plays, poems and other literary gems and applies them to circumstances she finds herself and others battling.
The plot thickens and events surrounding Ralph Devereaux heat up to a feverish pitch. Rose finds herself in more difficult predicaments and beholding to a man she hates. While Mr. Quinn, the one she cares for (and who deeply cares for her) continues to protect her as best he can.
In this novel, part way through, the setting shifts briefly from Ireland to Boston when Harp must make a potentially perilous journey. This passage was equally well described and fascinating. Plus, we get to see JJ and Danny from the first book and meet the generous aunt and uncle who took them in.
I really don’t want to give anything away as this story deserves far more praise than I can give it. It kept me pinned to the pages and on the edge of my seat with all the twists and turns. Jean Grainger has written a powerful story that is filled with heart, courage and determination and it challenges the meaning of moral code. Is killing ever right? Even while fighting for rights and during self-defence? I suppose that is the dilemma everyone faces with war and being under attack. Book two really ramps up the tension, mystery and mayhem and I am anxious to see what unfolds for this family and their friends in the next instalment. I loved this novel and highly recommend it. 5 Stars
August 23, 2022
Book two in the series continues with Ireland's struggle to be free from England. The title suggests the support of the Irish living in the west (United States).
"Queenstown, Co Cork. Ireland. 1916
Sixteen-year-old Harp Devereaux is growing up in a country in turmoil. Her mother Rose is struggling to navigate single parenthood, run the Cliff House, and stay out of the way of the authorities.Harp’s uncle, Ralph Devereaux, has only one thing on his mind.The port of Queenstown bustles with activity as people traverse the Atlantic either in search of new lives on foreign shores or returning to old familiar ones in Ireland. The Cliff House is fast gaining a reputation as a wonderful place to stay, and the business is going from strength to strength. Rose and Harp have turned their fortunes around and for the first time they are prosperous and independent. But all is not well. Civil and military unrest across the country in the wake of the Easter Rising is threatening to bubble over, and everyone is on edge. The British soldiers are making their presence felt in unpleasant ways, and the return of Ralph Devereaux to what he sees as his ancestral home is poses a serious threat.Just as they are managing the situation, a series of unforeseen events places both Harp and her mother in grave peril. Ralph suddenly holds all the power and is not afraid to wield it. They desperately need help, and there’s only one place they can go to get it.From a tense Queenstown to the vibrant Irish community in Boston, from wartime Liverpool, to the streets of Dublin seething with revolution, The West’s Awake continues the spellbinding Queenstown Story." synopsis copied
"Queenstown, Co Cork. Ireland. 1916
Sixteen-year-old Harp Devereaux is growing up in a country in turmoil. Her mother Rose is struggling to navigate single parenthood, run the Cliff House, and stay out of the way of the authorities.Harp’s uncle, Ralph Devereaux, has only one thing on his mind.The port of Queenstown bustles with activity as people traverse the Atlantic either in search of new lives on foreign shores or returning to old familiar ones in Ireland. The Cliff House is fast gaining a reputation as a wonderful place to stay, and the business is going from strength to strength. Rose and Harp have turned their fortunes around and for the first time they are prosperous and independent. But all is not well. Civil and military unrest across the country in the wake of the Easter Rising is threatening to bubble over, and everyone is on edge. The British soldiers are making their presence felt in unpleasant ways, and the return of Ralph Devereaux to what he sees as his ancestral home is poses a serious threat.Just as they are managing the situation, a series of unforeseen events places both Harp and her mother in grave peril. Ralph suddenly holds all the power and is not afraid to wield it. They desperately need help, and there’s only one place they can go to get it.From a tense Queenstown to the vibrant Irish community in Boston, from wartime Liverpool, to the streets of Dublin seething with revolution, The West’s Awake continues the spellbinding Queenstown Story." synopsis copied
June 9, 2021
The West’s Awake is another brilliant book the second in the Queensland trilogy. Harp is growing up. She is so intelligent and aware of what's going on around her and in the wider world. She lives in troubled times of Ireland. The British soldiers are everywhere and have a supercillous, arrogant attitude where the Irish people are concerned. Harp through very surprising channels and her contact with JohnJoe gets to travel to the USA where she is met with fantastic warmth and is drawn into JJs new family. However the reappearance of Ralph Devereaux has blighted the lives of Harp and her mother Rose and things begin to get rather worrying.
There are so many rich characters in this book, all vividly cast by Jean Grainger. I was up till the early hours to finish the book and must say I anticipated an ending which would lead us into Book 3 which it does.
Oh my, so much more to come. I am very lucky to be part of the AR group and now wait with bated breath for the final instalment.
Thank you Jean for the ongoing pleasure you bring to your readers and all my prayers go with you for the future.
I highly recommend that you read this great story.
There are so many rich characters in this book, all vividly cast by Jean Grainger. I was up till the early hours to finish the book and must say I anticipated an ending which would lead us into Book 3 which it does.
Oh my, so much more to come. I am very lucky to be part of the AR group and now wait with bated breath for the final instalment.
Thank you Jean for the ongoing pleasure you bring to your readers and all my prayers go with you for the future.
I highly recommend that you read this great story.
June 12, 2021
What??? You won't believe it! Jean Grainger has become a criminal. She has resorted to killing off her characters - only the nasty ones, of course, to protect the ones we all love. Now there is a country or two who better beware, as they may be the next to go.
In this delightful story, we get to spend some more time with the delightful Harp and her lovely mother, Rose. We see how they are progressing while making their world, their home, their lifestyle and the lifestyles of their friends into a better place. They are welcoming to the travellers passing through their Cliff House Inn - making contacts and keeping in touch with them as they go on to America searching for better lives. Young Harp is now a beautiful young woman and getting ready for higher education. I am excited to see where this will take her, and I love all her book quotes from the 'greats' of our past. Exciting, Surprising, sometimes Shocking, but never boring, the story pulls you in.
I received this story as an ARC and I am at liberty to voice my own opinions.
In this delightful story, we get to spend some more time with the delightful Harp and her lovely mother, Rose. We see how they are progressing while making their world, their home, their lifestyle and the lifestyles of their friends into a better place. They are welcoming to the travellers passing through their Cliff House Inn - making contacts and keeping in touch with them as they go on to America searching for better lives. Young Harp is now a beautiful young woman and getting ready for higher education. I am excited to see where this will take her, and I love all her book quotes from the 'greats' of our past. Exciting, Surprising, sometimes Shocking, but never boring, the story pulls you in.
I received this story as an ARC and I am at liberty to voice my own opinions.
June 10, 2021
Half way through WW1 and Ireland is in troubled times. Harp is an intelligent girl approaching womanhood who is both aware and naive. She has to come to terms with her past, deal with the reality of the present and hold on to her dreams of the future.
In this book Jean Grainger explores gender inequality and violence towards women, turbulent politics, restorative justice as opposed to the law while at the same time developing memorable characters that the reader becomes invested in. This is a serious book with accurate historical details of the period told in the author’s inimitable conversational style, lightened throughout with observations on the fashions of the day, literary gems and not least, the love interests of the protagonists. I’m really pleased to be an AR and am happy that the story is to continue in the near future.
In this book Jean Grainger explores gender inequality and violence towards women, turbulent politics, restorative justice as opposed to the law while at the same time developing memorable characters that the reader becomes invested in. This is a serious book with accurate historical details of the period told in the author’s inimitable conversational style, lightened throughout with observations on the fashions of the day, literary gems and not least, the love interests of the protagonists. I’m really pleased to be an AR and am happy that the story is to continue in the near future.
June 5, 2021
The West’s Awake is the second book in Jean Grainger’s Queensland trilogy. Harp is growing up. Now almost 16 she is very aware that the world is changing. The quest for Irish independence from Britain rages wherever patriotic Irish gather, as does the idea among women for the vote and emancipation from the mores of subservience. Harp wants to contribute. Things really get dicey when Ralph Devereaux returns. Ever a pompous freeloader, what additional trouble can he cause for Rose? Irish author, Jean Grainger’s books always are educational as they entertain which is why they are must reads in this reader’s opinion. I voluntarily reviewed an advance copy of this book. Most highly recommend.
December 4, 2023
Well I really enjoy the writing but don't love this book. In the first so many characters were introduced and I thought we would follow their stories but it seems to be Harp and Rose and Ireland. This is too dragged out for me. I want the baddie to get his comeuppance but looks like that doesn't happen till book 4. The characters seem more a backdrop to Ireland's story and I would prefer the focus on the characters. And it feels just a tad preachy. And Harp going on about how she's so bad for killing her attacker was tedious. Ok if she's worried about getting caught but does she have to be so good that she can't see the gray in the act of defending herself? Maybe I'll check out a stand alone book by this author
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 14, 2021
I will fully admit that Jean Grainger is one of my favourite authors. I love how I can just sink into her writing, and be immersed in the story and entranced by the characters. I find there are always characters that I relate directly to, and characters that I wish I had the good fortune to meet in real life. I really enjoyed the mother daughter relationship of Rose and Harp, and loved to live vicariously through Harp's passion and determination. I am grateful for the hours of escape and enjoyment that this book afforded me. This book can be (and was) read as a stand alone book, and I have now purchased book 1 so that I can catch up with Harp in her younger years.
June 15, 2021
Harp Devereaux is back in book two of the Queenstown Series. Four years have passed since last we heard from her and so much has happened in the interim. Jean Grainger kept me reading too long into the night because I just had to read one more chapter it was so good. As with everything else she has written Grainger is meticulous in her details as she weaves a truly engaging story. Long time fans of this author will certainly feel like they've just reconnected with an old friend and newbies will feel that they've just made a new friend. Can't say enough about the tales which come from this talented author. Now, I'm looking forward to the third book in the seies.
July 25, 2021
I dearly love Jean Grainger's writing and this book is no exception. She has written a most intriguing story with very rich characters. She is a master storyteller, and I love how easy it is to get lost in the pages of her books. Rose and her daughter Harp find themselves in a very distressing situation involving the death of a guest at their Inn. To protect herself from prosecution, Harp boards a ship bound for America and becomes involved in an underground resistance movement to free her beloved Ireland from invasion. If you have not read any of this series, I highly recommend starting with the first book to gain a better understanding of the storyline; you won't be disappointed!
December 16, 2022
Not sure exactly why but, though I enjoyed the first book set in this series, this one left me feeling kind of blah. It's the same setting as before, but 4 years later. So 1916, just after the Easter Uprising. There are British troops in the town, and some staying at Cliff House. Harp's is accepted as the daughter of Henry Devereaux but her biological father Ralph has turned up and things are not easy. Her mother hates him but he seems to have a hold. And then Harp decides to make a visit to the US to see some of the guests from that first week of running their guest house -- and to bring back money collected for the Irish independence cause. And that's as far as I got. A DNF for me.
May 17, 2024
The West’s Awake
Book 2 is about Rose, Harp, Matt, JohnJoe, Danny, Pat Rafferty and Aunt Kathy their adopted parents in Boston. Cissy, Liz Devlin. Harp’s trip to and from America.
Finding JohnJoe’s sisters Kitty and Joan all living in Queenstown. because of the war it wasn’t safe for Danny and JohnJoe to get on a ship to go home to Boston.
Ralph Devereaux is a piece of work / bully wants people to support him, technically he’s Harp’s biological father, but before Henry Devereaux died he had a will claiming Harp was his daughter, gave her the house when he passed away. Ralph hates Harp, Rose because they own the house.
Book 2 is about Rose, Harp, Matt, JohnJoe, Danny, Pat Rafferty and Aunt Kathy their adopted parents in Boston. Cissy, Liz Devlin. Harp’s trip to and from America.
Finding JohnJoe’s sisters Kitty and Joan all living in Queenstown. because of the war it wasn’t safe for Danny and JohnJoe to get on a ship to go home to Boston.
Ralph Devereaux is a piece of work / bully wants people to support him, technically he’s Harp’s biological father, but before Henry Devereaux died he had a will claiming Harp was his daughter, gave her the house when he passed away. Ralph hates Harp, Rose because they own the house.
June 21, 2025
The story of Harp and her mother, Rose, continues as they run the guesthouse they inherited from Harp's uncle. Rather than featuring guests of the lodging house, this one more prominently features a past guest, JohnJoe, and his Irish-American family. It also brings back Ralph, Harp's biological father, who is as evil as ever. The political tensions are running high with the Irish uprisings and the start of WWI. Even though I am not a fan of socialist talk and support, it was a real thing during this time in Irish history. No sex or profanity. A not-altogether surprising development at the end sets up the next book in the series.
June 10, 2021
This is a truly interesting series. Book 2 (The West's Awake) takes place in both Ireland and America with Harp traveling between the two. Her evil uncle is of course in the book and just as threatening as in Last Port of Call.
There are some great glimpses into the lives of Irish women who fought against England's subjugation of their country, both on the front lines and behind the scenes. Anyone interested in that period of history would find much to like about this book. Can't wait for the last of the trilogy!
I read an advance copy of this as a reader/editor of the book.
There are some great glimpses into the lives of Irish women who fought against England's subjugation of their country, both on the front lines and behind the scenes. Anyone interested in that period of history would find much to like about this book. Can't wait for the last of the trilogy!
I read an advance copy of this as a reader/editor of the book.
August 31, 2021
Five stars aren't enough!
I went willingly, head first into the story Jean Grainger wrote and I hate it's come to an end. Ten stars wouldn't do it justice. I'm not going to write about the characters and the details of the book. Others have done that much better than I. Instead I'll say that I'm willing to go where Jean is leading me. She writes so beautifully that your world ceases to exist, her world envelopes you and what a world it is. Name almost any emotion and you'll have it. Read her books. Dive headfirst into her world. You won't regret it.
I went willingly, head first into the story Jean Grainger wrote and I hate it's come to an end. Ten stars wouldn't do it justice. I'm not going to write about the characters and the details of the book. Others have done that much better than I. Instead I'll say that I'm willing to go where Jean is leading me. She writes so beautifully that your world ceases to exist, her world envelopes you and what a world it is. Name almost any emotion and you'll have it. Read her books. Dive headfirst into her world. You won't regret it.
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