The Lady of Galway Manor ~ Review

The Lady of Galway Manor

By Jennifer Deibel

Annabeth De Lacy has been groomed for a life in the British Court and when her father moves the family to the family estate in Galway boredom soon moves in. Annabeth's artistic leanings have her taking an apprenticeship in the jewelry shop of the Jennings family. The Jennings family has long been known for their workmanship and the Claddagh Ring. 

But the legend surrounding the ring and its tale of love has soured Stephen Jennings to its charm and even his life in Galway. Seeking to escape the pain of his past and his anger at the British, Stephen is less than pleased to discover that he will be training an apprentice. What's worse his apprentice is a  British lady and the daughter of their landlord!

1920's Galway is a place of unrest, simmering just below the surface. Ireland seeks its independence from British rule. Stephen harbors anger at what the British have taken from him. Anna has been taught that her refinement, her gentility, her Britishness, her presence will be a light among the Irish, who are little more than savages. Both are in for an eye-opening, heart-changing experience as they work together. But the past is not easily forgotten and both are Stephen and Anna caught in its grip, a grip that seeks to rob them of the future they both desire and fear.        

The Lady of Galway Manor is a delightfully engaging read. One is given a glimpse into the differing viewpoints on the Irish/British conflict concerning Irish independence. The characters are multifaceted with layers of depth that are slowly revealed as the story unfolds. I have to admit that I was a little surprised at Annabeth's situation in regards to a marriage match and the lack of say she really has in the matter. And then there is Stephen trapped in a life of making and selling a ring that symbolizes love's promise, a promise he no longer believes is true. I really liked Seamus, Stephen's father, who is a voice of reason amid all the chaos and upheaval that occurs during this somewhat volatile period. 

If you are love historical romances with depth, anything set in Ireland, and post WWI fiction you have found your next read. Jennifer Deibel has created a world that will come to life as soon as you lift the cover. And the cover is just a glimpse of what is to come so you know you will love what comes next.

I was provided a complimentary copy of this book with no expectation but that I provide my honest opinion. All thoughts expressed are my own.

About the Book:

In 1920, Annabeth De Lacy's father is appointed landlord of Galway Parish in Ireland. Bored without all the trappings of the British Court, Annabeth convinces her father to arrange an apprenticeship for her with the Jennings family--descendants of the creator of the famed Claddagh Ring.

Stephen Jennings longs to do anything other than run his family's jewelry shop. Having had his heart broken, he no longer believes in love and is weary of peddling the lies the Claddagh Ring promises.

Meanwhile, as the war for Irish independence gains strength, many locals resent the De Lacys and decide to take things into their own hands to display their displeasure. As events take a dangerous turn for Annabeth and her family, she and Stephen begin to see that perhaps the "other side" isn't quite as barbaric and uncultured as they'd been led to believe--and that the bonds of friendship, love, and loyalty are only made stronger when put through the refiner's fire.

Travel to the Emerald Isle for another poignant and romantic story from the enchanted pen of Jennifer Deibel.