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30 July 2015

Diana Reviews IRISH MEADOWS By Susan Anne Mason


Reviewed By Diana Flowers (No Spoilers!)
5 stars ~
Double The Romance!

In this mesmerizing Irish family saga, author Susan Anne Mason sweeps the reader away to a lovely and affluent estate—the O'Leary stables in 1911 Long Island, New York. After three long years, Gil Whelan is glad to be back home again. He had come to Irish Meadows as a small child where he had been taken in by the O'Leary family and treated as the patriarch's own son. Now he has come back to repay the debt and start his own farm.

Two beautiful O'Leary sisters as different as night and day; the coquettish and manipulative Colleen, and sweet, green-eyed Brianna must marry well to help save their father, James O'Leary's opulent horse farm. When Rylan Montgomery, a handsome, charming young priest arrives at Irish Meadows as well—a journey of angst-filled, entangling romance begins, throwing a wrench into James' plans to save his farm. Will Brianna, Colleen, and even Gil all become as puppets dancing to Papa O'Leary's tune or will their own plans and matters of the heart take over? And will Colleen ever mend her scheming, conniving ways?

I am definitely a new fan of Susan Anne Mason's amazing writing! I was pleasantly surprised at her ability to tell a story with exciting plot twists and complicated, seemingly impossible romantic situations interspersed with humor and heartaches by the number! The realistic characters are not sugar coated and struggle with a distorted sense of loyalty and obligation to Mr. O'Leary, trust issues, and childhood trauma resulting in shame and a lack of self-esteem. However, each must painstakingly work their way through these presumably insurmountable issues and ooh, the drama that ensues! An enchanting tale with two romances for the price of one (!) and a beautiful story of God's redemption and inner healing...Irish Meadows is definitely one not to be missed! I absolutely loved it!

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Thanks to Net Galley for a copy of this novel in exchange for my honest opinion.
This book may be purchased through BAM, Amazon, CBD, and your local bookstore.
GIVEAWAY: Susan Mason has graciously offered a paperback copy of Irish Meadows to one blessed commenter! US entrants only in this particular giveaway.


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65 comments:

  1. Carrie Fancett PagelsJuly 30, 2015 at 7:12 AM

    Wow, this sounds like a great book, Diana! Thanks so much for reading, reviewing, and recommending this novel on OWG blog! Hugs!!!

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    1. Diana FlowersJuly 30, 2015 at 7:24 AM

      Thank you, CARRIE! It was my pleasure to do so and I hope everyone gets a chance to read it! It'll make you laugh AND cry!

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  2. Caryl KaneJuly 30, 2015 at 8:50 AM

    Diana, I am absolutely GIDDY over reading your review! I've been wanting to read this one for a while. Thank you for the excellent review.

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    1. Diana FlowersJuly 30, 2015 at 9:02 AM

      Thank you so much for your kind words, CARYL! The whole book made me giddy (perfect choice of words!) Lol And although I didn't put this in my review for readers who aren't crazy about stories with horses, they take a back seat to the characters. The book isn't all horses for sure. Very little actually...

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  3. LilianJuly 30, 2015 at 8:56 AM

    lovely review, love your blog too !!!

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    1. Diana FlowersJuly 30, 2015 at 9:03 AM

      Thank you, LILIAN! We love our viewers, too, and enjoy promoting good Christian fiction! Thx for coming by!

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  4. UnknownJuly 30, 2015 at 8:59 AM

    I'm with CARYL above!! :-) What an incredible review, Diana! I absolutely HAVE to read this now!! I have to admit, you sorta had me at 'double the romance' lol, but the rest of what you wrote definitely cinched the deal! :)

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    1. Diana FlowersJuly 30, 2015 at 9:06 AM

      Thanks for your kind words, NOELA! Yep, double the romance, double the drama, er...fun that is! ;)

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  5. Delores LiesnerJuly 30, 2015 at 9:13 AM

    This does sound like a very intriguing story. I also enjoyed getting to know you all through your pictures and bios. Very nice site.

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    1. Diana FlowersJuly 30, 2015 at 9:21 AM

      I'm so glad you stopped by OWG, DELORES! Thank you and I'm looking forward to you coming back week after week (lotsa great reviews and book giveaways here), so that I may enjoy getting to know you! Bless you! P.S. Hmm...wondering if I need to update that bio now. ;)

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  6. Carrie TuranskyJuly 30, 2015 at 9:14 AM

    I've been watching for this book to come out. I love the cover, and the now that I've read your review I am eager to read the story. How exciting for Susan Mason to see her debut book receive such a great review! Thanks for sharing, Diana!!

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    1. Diana FlowersJuly 30, 2015 at 9:55 AM

      Oh, CARRIE! What a delight to see you here! Thank you for your kind words, and I so hope you get the chance to read this ASAP. It's hard to believe this is a debut book!

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  7. NancyJuly 30, 2015 at 9:18 AM

    I love historical fiction and this book sounds like one I'd love to read (or have written!). Thanks for the review to bring it to my attention.

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    1. Diana FlowersJuly 30, 2015 at 9:52 AM

      You're welcome, NANCY! I had a hard time putting it down! I just had to see how or IF it all worked out!

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  8. Diane EstrellaJuly 30, 2015 at 9:32 AM

    Five stars!!!! Awesome! I would love to read this book. Thanks for the review.

    Diane
    dianemestrella at gmail dot com

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    1. Diana FlowersJuly 30, 2015 at 9:50 AM

      Oh, I hope you get the chance, DIANE! It was so good!!

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  9. KavJuly 30, 2015 at 10:39 AM

    Excellent review -- you captured the toe-curling thrill of Irish Meadows perfectly. I near swoon just thinking about that story and I read it a month ago!

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    1. Diana FlowersJuly 30, 2015 at 10:57 AM

      Thank you, KAV! I forgot to use the "toe-curling phrase" in this one...what's wrong with me!? This book is everything a book should be IMO!

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  10. spangldladyJuly 30, 2015 at 10:41 AM

    I'd love to read it!!! I'd love to win it!!! I'm in.

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    1. Diana FlowersJuly 30, 2015 at 10:59 AM

      Yes, you are in, SPANGLDLADY! The luck of the Irish to you!

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  11. AnonymousJuly 30, 2015 at 10:58 AM

    Ohhhhhhh Diana,
    Your review is five stars for sure !
    I have heard of this book but your review is tops ! You know after reading your review I just have to read this ! Don't you just love the cover ? It really has drawn me in ! Being Irish myself I am drawn to these types of books ! Thanks for the great post and giveaway opportunity!
    Deanne
    cnnamongirl at aol dot com

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    1. Diana FlowersJuly 30, 2015 at 11:36 AM

      DEANNE, your sweet words really made my day! I feel you'll really love this one then...sounds right up your alley! The cover is awesome, I agree! The luck of the Irish to you, my friend! Since you're Irish it has to be, right?? :)

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  12. BettiJuly 30, 2015 at 11:10 AM

    This one sounds like a wonderful book to read, Diana. I would love to win :)

    bettimace at gmail dot com

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    1. Diana FlowersJuly 30, 2015 at 11:38 AM

      Thx for coming by, BETTI! I hope you get the chance to read it! It IS a wonderful book indeed!

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  13. AnonymousJuly 30, 2015 at 12:51 PM

    I was waiting for the toe-curling romance comment. ;-) You have a way with words Diana. Write a book and I'll read it!
    Luke

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    1. Diana FlowersJuly 30, 2015 at 12:56 PM

      I forgot (snapping my fingers!) I'll remember that someday and make you suffer through pages of toe-curling romance! Thank you for your kind words BTW!

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    2. AnonymousJuly 30, 2015 at 1:03 PM

      Haha. I look forward to it. I'm a romantic guy at heart. ;-)

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  14. Marian BaayJuly 30, 2015 at 2:45 PM

    Great review, mdh. :) Sounds like a wonderful read!

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    1. Diana FlowersJuly 30, 2015 at 3:00 PM

      Thank you, MARIAN! I hope you get the chance to read it! Best put it at the top of your teetering pile of TBRs. ;)

      Delete
  15. PattyJuly 30, 2015 at 4:20 PM

    Two romances for the price of one, sounds good to me!

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    1. Diana FlowersJuly 30, 2015 at 4:33 PM

      Indeed it does, PATTY! LOL! And what stormy romances they are! Good luck in the drawing!

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  16. Melanie BackusJuly 30, 2015 at 4:33 PM

    Thank you for a great review! I would love to read Irish Meadows!

    mauback55 at gmail dot com

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    1. Diana FlowersJuly 30, 2015 at 4:34 PM

      You're welcome, MELANIE! Am hoping you get the opportunity soon!

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  17. Trixi July 30, 2015 at 4:33 PM

    I've already won this book on another blog, so no need to enter me in this one. I just wanted to chime in and say that I really enjoyed your review & know I am in for a treat with this book :-) I always appreciate your take on books!

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    1. Diana FlowersJuly 30, 2015 at 4:36 PM

      TRIXI, what a thoughtful thing to do! Thank you for sharing that! Yes, you are in for a real treat with this one!

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  18. Trixi July 30, 2015 at 4:41 PM

    And I should add....this is one of THE MOST gorgeous covers I've seen!! It truly is a beauty, pictures just don't do it justice :-) I have serious cover love, ha-ha!

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    1. Diana FlowersJuly 30, 2015 at 5:48 PM

      You and me both, TRIXI! I wanted this one before I ever read what it was about! Lol Love Bethany House's covers! GORGEOUS indeed!

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  19. Mary LouJuly 30, 2015 at 5:54 PM

    Marian, you sure wrote a wonderful review of this wonderful sounding novel. I like the idea of "twists and turns" and especially the whole Christian aspect to this book. Hoping to win!
    flowersmarylou85(at)gmail(dot)com

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    1. Diana FlowersJuly 30, 2015 at 6:26 PM

      MARIAN must be thinking about you, MARY LOU. Lol Because you wrote her name instead of mine. But it's quite alright -- I'm glad you enjoyed my review. The luck of the Irish to you, my dear!

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  20. Bonnie RoofJuly 30, 2015 at 6:23 PM

    I've had my eye on this book for a couple of weeks now, after reading such glowing reports - your beautiful review sold me, Diana!! Sounds like lots of romance, dysfunction and God's healing in 'Irish Meadows' - my fave story line!! Have seen the author, Susan Anne Mason, around on the Seekerville blog for quite some time now, however, your review inspired me to do a little further research. 'Irish Meadows' ( her first historical book), has a sequel coming out in Dec., she has also had 3 contemporary books published within the last year. Looks like even more wonderful reading ahead!!

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    1. Diana FlowersJuly 30, 2015 at 6:29 PM

      Thank you, BONNIE, for that info! Yes, unfortunately not everyone got redeemed in Irish Meadows and can't wait to read her/his story next!

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  21. scatteredleavesJuly 30, 2015 at 7:01 PM

    It looks really good.

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    1. Diana FlowersJuly 30, 2015 at 7:19 PM

      It is indeed, POETRYINLEAVES! Thx for stopping by!

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  22. Susan Anne MasonJuly 30, 2015 at 8:49 PM

    Hi everyone! I SO appreciate all your kind comments! And I hope you all get to read Irish Meadows.
    Thank you again, Diana, for your wonderful review and for helping spread the word about my story!
    Warmest wishes,
    Susan

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    1. Diana FlowersJuly 30, 2015 at 9:00 PM

      You're very welcome, SUSAN! I'll be waiting on your next book with baited breath! Lol

      Delete
  23. Sydney AndersonJuly 31, 2015 at 12:06 AM

    This book is totally on my TBR shelf. I have seen it popping up on blogs for the past while and I would love to win and read this. Thanks for the giveaway!! :D

    sydneyjames68[at]gmail[dot]com

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    1. Diana FlowersJuly 31, 2015 at 9:17 AM

      SYDNEY, hoping you get the chance to read it asap! The book is as wonderful as the cover! I know, hard to believe! lol

      Delete
  24. Anne PayneJuly 31, 2015 at 4:05 AM

    Okay, DIANA. I skipped reading the review because there is just something so compelling about this cover, I don't want to know anything about the book. I just want to READ it!!! Seriously, it is calling my name. I am Irish, baby. :)

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    1. Diana FlowersJuly 31, 2015 at 9:23 AM

      But ANNE, you know you can't judge a book by its cover! :o Well, in this case you can. I put "No Spoilers" on the review even, just for you! Well for everybody, but OK, the luck of the Irish to you, baby! ;)

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  25. AlexaJuly 31, 2015 at 9:20 AM

    This book seems to be awesome. I'd really like to read it, too!

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    1. Diana FlowersJuly 31, 2015 at 9:27 AM

      Hi, ALEXA! I just got done looking at a book on my shelf and the heroine's name is Alexa. Such a pretty name! It is an awesome book and well worth ordering if you happen not to win the drawing. Good luck!

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  26. kim hansenJuly 31, 2015 at 9:34 AM

    This a fantastic read.

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  27. Ginger SolomonJuly 31, 2015 at 9:39 AM

    This is my first time at this site. It's lovely. The book looks great.

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    1. Diana FlowersJuly 31, 2015 at 9:51 AM

      GINGER, welcome to OWG! I hope it won't be your last. :) We have weekly giveaways and review only the best books IMO! Thank you for your kind words and good luck in the drawing!

      Delete
  28. joyJuly 31, 2015 at 9:59 AM

    Athens first thing that grabs my interest in a book is t he cover. I love this cover! And as a first. Time visitor. To t his site, I love it also. If I should win this book, I would read and review then donate to my church's new library still in the process of building.

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    1. Diana FlowersJuly 31, 2015 at 10:26 AM

      I'm so glad you love the blog, JOY, and hope you'll come back often! We have reviews and giveaways each week and would love to see you! I'm sure you and your church members will be delighted to read this book!

      Delete
  29. joyJuly 31, 2015 at 10:00 AM

    Auto check..ugh! *the first thing

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    1. Diana FlowersJuly 31, 2015 at 10:28 AM

      UGH is right. Sometimes auto correct is a good thing, but many times it can be a real pain. lol

      Delete
  30. LitleteacherladyJuly 31, 2015 at 10:02 AM

    Immediately adding Irish Meadows to my To Be Read list! Can't wait to read it

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    1. Diana FlowersJuly 31, 2015 at 10:19 AM

      Hi, CAROL! Welcome to OWG! Tossed your name in my cyberhat! ;)

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  31. AnonymousJuly 31, 2015 at 6:07 PM

    A really interesting review Diana. As usual, making us want to start reading the book right now.Sounds like a lot of action going on in this story. Please put my name in. And (((Hugs))) to my OWG gals. love you all. GOD bless you.
    Maxie > mac262(at)me(dot)com <

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  32. Diana FlowersJuly 31, 2015 at 6:40 PM

    Aww...thanks, MAXIE. A lot of action. And a whole lot of angst. Lol Hugs and love right back atcha, dear MAXIE! God bless.

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  33. Loraine NunleyAugust 1, 2015 at 7:47 AM

    This one is on my TBR list. I really like reading series books about families. I am reading Dani Pettrey's Alaskan Courage series right now. Thanks for the review and giveaway!

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    1. Diana FlowersAugust 1, 2015 at 10:42 AM

      And Dani's are on my TBR list, LORAINE! Lol This is one awesome book and hope you get the chance to read it!!!

      Delete

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