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Literary Friday: Books Set In Ireland Round-Up

Friday, March 2, 2018


Happy Literary Friday, My Lovelies!  Did March roar in like a Lion or frolic in like a lamb where you live?  

We had a little rain and a few storms yesterday, and it's going to be downright cold here in Central Alabama over the weekend.

Today I want to share with you a few of my favorite books set in Ireland.







First I'd like to share a couple of books by Frank Delaney.  The individual book covers are affiliate links to IndieBound should you like to purchase them.


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This is one of my all-time favorite books.  This novel chronologically shares Ireland's history through the art of storytelling. The "framework" story in this book is that of a young man named Ronan O'Mara, whose life is drastically changed forever when a Seanchai, or a traveling storyteller, visits his home when Ronan is nine years old.  Ronan travels all over the country collecting these stories, and the way they're told is mesmerizing.  Click HERE for my review.



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Also by Frank Delaney, this book is about Robert Shannon, a young American hero of the Great War suffering from shell shock.  He's sent to Ireland by his mentor to find his family roots along the river of his family's namesake.  Unbeknownst to Robert, a safety net has been put in place for him to guide him on his quest.  There are several unforgettable characters in this book, and you'll be charmed by the beauty of Ireland, her people, and her lore.







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Kate Robinson, a 26 year old fashion designer, flees to Ireland after her heart was broken.  In Glenmara, she befriends members of the lace-making society.  This is the perfect outlet for Kate as she and the ladies design a beautiful lingerie line together.  Definitely character driven with just enough romance to keep it interesting, The Lace Makers of Glenmara is a fun yet sweet read.



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I've read almost all of Maeve Binchy's books.  What a treasure she was!  If you haven't read Circle of Friends yet, you really should or at the very least watch the movie.  Quentins is a favorite of mine because several unforgettable characters from her other books make appearances, but it isn't necessary to read them first.  Quentins is a Dublin pub that's been in business since the 1970's, and filmmaker Ella Brady believes it's possible to tell the story of a generation through the history of a restaurant.  







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This is the story of the transformation of Sheila McGee, a Northern Ireland mill worker who strives to become The Linen Queen and better her life.  This is a historical novel about Northern Ireland's role during World War II (Ireland remained neutral), and there's also a whole lot of family drama and IRA suspense that captivates the reader.  I couldn't put this one down.  Read my full review HERE.



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The Yellow House is also set in Northern Ireland, but at the turn of the last century.  Eileen O'Neill is determined to reclaim her family's yellow house lost due to a family tragedy.  This one has one of the most dramatic love triangles ever, and although Eileen's character grated on me at first, she also transforms and grows.  You can read my full review HERE.







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If you like mysteries, then this Tana French series might be to your liking.  In the Woods has plenty of spookiness and suspense as a cold case of two girls' murders is connected to another case twenty years later.  If your book club enjoys reading mysteries from time to time, then pick this book because it's a perfect selection for discussion.  










Do you have any favorite books set in Ireland?  Please either email me or leave a comment below.  


Until next time...

Happy reading!
Ricki Jill

12 comments

  1. Oh, you always mention books I want to read! I don't think I've ever read any by Tana French...they sound good! I thought of Frank McCourt. His first book Angela's Ashes was an all time favorite for me. I'll never forget parts of it! Enjoy your afternoon! Hugs!

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  2. What a great collection, RJ. "Shannon" sounds particularly good to me. And I've not read Maeve Binchy but everyone tells me I'd love her!

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  3. Wish I had anyone of these for this weekend. Turning out to be colder than expected so no outdoor activities and yes, March came in with like a lion! Been to Ireland once and maybe a return trip someday. Hope you are enjoying a wonderful weekend.

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  4. I have read many books on Michael Collins. Your list sounds like books I will be looking into.
    Marion

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  5. I like the books you have listed. Will look into them. i have read many books that are in Ireland. Two are 1916 and 1921. Thanks for the information.

    Joan

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  6. I read "The Lion Of Ireland" by Morgan Llewlyn, "The Book of Kells", and many books on Micheal Collins.
    Marilyn

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  7. I love Maeve Binchy, and haven't read Quentins yet, must do! Thanks RJ!
    Jenna

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  8. Definitely roaring lion here! I spent a good part of the morning snow blowing our place and neighbors' places, but am I ever grateful for a snowblower. We can't complain much because January and February were dry and warm - which never happens.
    I have been telling my sister that I want to do a cruise around Ireland and Scotland sometime soon, so these books would be perfect for me! Hooray!

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  9. Ooh, I do want to read The Lace Makers of Glenmara! And I've always been curious about Tana French's books. Wonderful post Ricki!

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  10. It's always fun to see what you are reading! I listen to audio-books, because reading anything more than a short article puts me to sleep. I just downloaded "Simple Courage" and "Tipperary" by Frank Delaney. I have also listened to "In the Woods" by Tana French and really enjoyed it. I've recently found out I am 30% Irish and was completely blown away...had no idea! I have a new view of St. Patrick's Day!

    Warm hugs, Carol

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  11. I read one of Maeve Binchy’s books, but I can’t remember the title. Thank you for all your recommendations. Ricki Jill. I do love Rosamunde Pilcher, but hers are set in Scotland. Her characters just draw me in.

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I'm Ricki Jill. Welcome! I'm honored that you're reading my blog. I enjoy sharing my creative lifestyle @ The Bookish Dilettante. For more information about my blog, please read the Start Here page. Thank-you for stopping by, and I hope you'll consider following me via email.

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