Beyond Derrynane: A Novel of Eighteenth Century Europe: 1 (Derrynane Saga) - Tapa blanda

“This was such a wonderful novel . . . a family saga and the first in a series, It starts with Eileen’s arranged marriage and then sweeps across Europe where (she and her sister, Abigail) find themselves in the Habsburg court . . .the story is very captivating, I loved getting to know Eileen and Abby as . . . the waves of their life took them. The book was wonderfully researched and descriptive. It’s full of history and family drama . . . just what I love in historical fiction . . . I really can’t wait to see what happens next with the family . . . Superb.” – © The Mistress of the Dark, A Chick Who Reads

"Beyond Derrynane is the first novel of a very compelling new historical fiction series. Overall, I really enjoyed this book. Mr. O’Connell took us to Ireland, France and Austria and each place seemed so very real and wonderful. The characters are alive and vibrant. Eileen is a strong woman who never forgets who she is and will never be taken for granted.' – © Kinx’s Book Nook

“Beyond Derrynane is one of those historical fiction stories that you hate to put down. A novel written about a family as large as the O'Connells is an especially interesting read as it is somewhat based on fact. Mr. O'Connell definitely has the Irish trait of being able to tell an interesting story.” – © Kathleen Kelly, A Celtic Lady Reviews

“Rich. Inviting. And vividly detailed in the time, people and the activities around them. This journey of two Irish sisters, Abigail and Eileen, was filled with court life, intrigue, drama, choices, plotting, love, romance, family, and more. This was just the first of a four-book series of the Derrynane Saga. This first book was captivating with historical facts and recounting events that may or may not have occurred.” – © The Book Junkie Reads

“This book is the story of Eileen O’Connell for the most part. It is the first in a (saga) about the O’Connell family of Derrynane, Ireland – a family that lived (lives) from a place that exists . . . . I found the life of this young woman to be very interesting and it’s a point of view not usually seen in the books that I read. I’ll look forward to the next . . . two books in the (saga)." - © Patricia Woodland, Broken Teepee

"“Well researched, exceptionally detailed and highly informative! . . . This story takes us back into the 1760s, when women were considered mere objects and independence was unheard of, and gives us an in-depth look into the life and loves of the author’s ancestors. . .It is ultimately a story about family relationships, betrayal, wealth, adventure, self discovery, fulfillment and love. . .The writing is well done with beautiful imagery. . . the plot unfolds chronologically with a good mix of historical fact, authentic dialogue, and heartfelt emotion that keeps the story flowing from start to finish . . ." © What's Better Than Books

“This was an interesting read. Eileen was an interesting character and I am curious to follow her story further. Abigail was entertaining; I think I liked Abigail more than I liked Eileen honestly... when the ending came, I was upset, I wanted it to keep going. I really want to see what is next for Eileen and her sister. . .an excellent opening book to the saga. . . the characters were interesting and the story was addicting . . .” © Carole’s Ramblings, The Book Girl of Mur-y-Castell