Title: Irish Thoroughbred
Author: Nora Roberts
First published May 1, 1981
189 pages, Mass Market Paperback
ISBN: 9780671570811 (ISBN10: 0671570811)
Rating: 3.94
Overview
“LEAVE YOUR HOMELAND AND FIND LOVE IN AMERICA.” That was the message Adelia Cunnane received from her uncle, inviting her to join him on his splendid horse farm in Maryland. Adelia was thrilled to arrive at the farm, but she was not prepared for the enigmatic Travis Grant, the owner of the farm.
Despite his commanding presence and his ability to handle the strongest horses, Adelia remained cautious of Travis. As she witnessed the birth of a foal, she saw a softer side of him.
However, when Travis’s lips met hers, Adelia hesitated to give in to his demands. She needed to hear the words she had been longing for before she could submit to Travis’s love.
About the Author
Nora Roberts has written over 200 novels, many of which have become New York Times bestsellers. Some of her most popular works include Hideaway, Under Currents, Come Sundown, The Awakening, and Legacy.
She is set to release her next book, The Becoming, in November of 2021, which is the second installment in The Dragon Heart Legacy series. Additionally, Roberts is known for her futuristic suspense novels written under the pen name J.D. Robb.
Collectively, her books have sold over 500 million copies worldwide.
Editoral Review
In her debut novel Irish Thoroughbred, bestselling author Nora Roberts delivers a captivating romance set amidst the lush green hills of Ireland. First published on May 1, 1981, the book is a perfect example of Roberts’ distinctive style and themes.
The story follows the life of Adelia “Dee” Cunnane, a young girl from rural Ireland who dreams of a bigger and better life. After getting a chance to work at a horse farm in America, Dee lands in Maryland, where she meets Travis Grant, the handsome and wealthy owner of the stable.
Sparks fly between them, and Dee finds herself drawn to Travis despite their differences in background and temperament. As they navigate their growing attraction, they also face obstacles from others who disapprove of their relationship.
Roberts sets the scene of 1980s America and Ireland with vivid descriptions of the countryside, the horse stables, and the people who inhabit these places. Through Dee and Travis, she explores themes of family, class, and identity, particularly as they relate to the immigrant experience.
Roberts also delves into the world of horse racing, using it as a backdrop for the unfolding love story. One of the strengths of the book is Roberts’ masterful character development.
Dee and Travis are fully-realized individuals, each with their own quirks, flaws, and strengths. Their interactions are often humorous, poignant, and believable, and readers will find themselves rooting for their success.
The pacing of the novel is steady, with just enough tension to keep readers engaged without feeling overwhelmed. However, there are some weaknesses in the book.
The conflicts that arise feel somewhat predictable and familiar, and readers may find themselves wishing for more surprise and complexity in the story. Additionally, some of the dialogue between characters can feel a bit stilted and unnatural, particularly when the characters are expressing their deepest feelings.
Despite these limitations, Irish Thoroughbred remains an enjoyable and engaging read, particularly for fans of romance novels and those interested in the immigrant experience. It is a heartwarming and uplifting story that speaks to the universal desire for love and belonging.
Overall, I would give Irish Thoroughbred a rating of 3.5 out of 5 stars. Although it is not without its flaws, the book is well-written and engaging, with memorable characters and themes that resonate with readers.
I would recommend it to those who enjoy romance novels, particularly those set in exotic locales, and those who appreciate the power of love to transcend cultural and class boundaries.
