Jennifer Deibel is inviting readers back to Ireland with her new novel The Lady of Galway Manor. While technically a historical fiction, I feel it would be more accurate say this tale focuses more on highlighting its romantic aspects than historical exposition.
The two characters at the center of this tale are Englishwoman Annabeth DeLacey, eldest daughter of Lord DeLacey, recently arrived in Galway as the new English landlords. Stephen Jennings, on the other hand, is a Galway jeweler and keeper of the Claddagh, who has given up on love and letting others in. He's also Annabeth's new teacher in jewelry making.
So, first of all, I've always had a fondness for the Claddagh design so when I heard that it was going to feature in this book I knew I had to take a look. I loved how Deibel worked the legend throughout the pages, hinted toward the skill and strength it takes to craft them, and used it to work her faith elements into the storyline in a way that felt so true to the characters. This book so rekindled my love of this traditional design that I'm pretty sure my internet search algorithms are going to be giving my Claddagh images and lore for weeks (and I'm okay with this).
As far as characters go, there's not much unexpected from Anna or Stephen. I feel like fans of the genre will enjoy Anna's thirst for a more substantial life, her quick mind, and open heart. Likewise, Stephen's wrestling with his grief and loss also feels familiar within the genre but is tempered by how real and alive his relationship is with his father. That said, Seamus is my hands down favourite character in this whole book. Honestly, I would accept an offer to tea with him in a heartbeat. I love how Deibel made him jump off the pages with his wisdom, warmth, and humour.
Another character that really came to life for me was Ireland herself. You can really feel Deibel's love for and experience in the country in the way she writes her scenes. Paddy's fish and chips, the seisiun, even the care Deibel takes to write Anna's first real observations walking to the shop, the fact that Ireland has a piece of Deibel's heart is clear.
Readers looking for indepth historical action would probably feel more comfortable in another tale. While Deibel does draw on the events of 1920s Galway in the book, she admits most was altered or generalized for the sake of the story. It really comes down to what you're expecting of the book.
If you're a fan of romance, Ireland, and happy endings I recommend giving The Lady of Galway Manor a peek.
4 out of 5 stars.
I received an advanced copy of this book in exchange for my honest opinion. All thoughts are my own.
