Title: The Last Bride in Ballymuir
Author: Dorien Kelly
First published March 1, 2003
416 pages, Mass Market Paperback
ISBN: 9780743464581 (ISBN10: 0743464583)
Rating: 3.66
Overview
Dorien Kelly’s captivating contemporary novel takes readers on a journey to the picturesque village of Ballymuir, Ireland. Miss Kylie O’Shea is a dedicated teacher at the Gaelic school, a helpful neighbor, and a devoted volunteer.
Despite her good nature, she keeps the local lads at bay, leaving everyone in the village wondering if she’ll become the last bride in Ballymuir. When Michael Kilbride, a mysterious stranger, arrives in town, wild rumors begin to spread about him.
However, Kylie is drawn to Michael’s intense passions and finds herself exploring her own dreams and desires, even if it means uncovering the darkest secrets of her beloved village and her own past. Steeped in the age-old beauty and traditions of Ireland, this enchanting novel will transport you to a world where passions run deep and love knows no bounds.
Editoral Review
The Last Bride in Ballymuir by Dorien Kelly is an Irish romance novel that was first published on March 1, 2003. Kelly’s book takes readers on a journey through the picturesque countryside of Ireland, highlighting the beauty of the land along with its rich culture and traditions.
The book is a captivating story that explores themes of love, family, and forgiveness in a way that has kept readers coming back for more. Set in the charming town of Ballymuir, The Last Bride tells the story of Claire Elliot, an American with her own secrets, who comes to Ireland to settle her estranged father’s estate.
Once there, Claire meets Liam Hennessey, the charming local pub owner with a quick wit and a heart of gold. As sparks fly between them, the community becomes embroiled in a heated debate over the sale of a local castle, threatening to divide the community and put those Claire and Liam love at risk.
The Last Bride in Ballymuir is a well-written novel that captures the essence of the Irish countryside and its people with vivid detail. Kelly’s prose is both vivid and poetic, making it easy for readers to visualize the landscape and the people who inhabit it.
The story is engaging and keeps the reader hooked until the very last page. Kelly has skillfully crafted her main characters to be multi-dimensional and relatable.
Both Claire and Liam come from different worlds, and their journeys are intertwined in ways that are meaningful and genuine. The pacing of the book is well-placed, with just enough action to keep the reader engaged, but not so much that it becomes overwhelming.
The Last Bride in Ballymuir also delves into important cultural and social issues relevant to the contemporary world. The book focuses on themes such as heritage, identity, personal freedom, and the importance of community.
The exploration of these themes is enriched by the author’s sensitivity and understanding of the human experience. One of the few critiques of the book is that its characters are sometimes too predictable.
Some readers may find themselves anticipating certain plot points well in advance. However, this is a minor criticism in a book that overwhelmingly delivers on its promises.
Overall, The Last Bride in Ballymuir is a masterful work of Irish romantic fiction that will delight fans of the genre with its stunning landscape, richly drawn characters, and heartwarming story. Kelly’s book is a testament to the power of storytelling, and a must-read for anyone who loves a good romance novel.
I give this book a rating of 4.5 stars out of 5 stars.
