The second in a three-part series about the wealthy O’Donovan family, Corrib Red takes place in 1880’s Ireland and centers on 15-year-old Grace and her elder sister, Deirdre. The girls were always close in the past, but now Grace senses an inexplicable distance between them since her sister’s return from a year away at finishing school in Switzerland. Set against a climate of unrest and struggle for home rule in Ireland, romance and suspense merge in this emotionally charged story. Though the plot unfolds gradually at first, it accelerates in the second half of the book and grips the reader with several shocking turns that have life-and-death consequences. The characters and descriptions of the countryside’s beauty and charm leave a lasting impression.

For lovers of historical fiction, Patricia Hopper delivers with Corrib Red. Threading through the story is the escalating political tensions for Irish Home Rule. Her work is infused with the authentic flavor of Ireland. From the peat bogs and cottages of the commoners to mansions and finery of the gentry, Hopper deftly weaves a story of love, betrayal, deceit, family ties, and the distinction between the classes. Corrib Red stands alone as a wonderful story steeped in Ireland’s history and culture.

I finished reading Corrib Red. I can’t wait until book three is finished. Patricia weaved Kilpara and Corrib Red nicely together. Once I began reading Corrib Red, I could not put it down. It was a good read and at times, suspenseful. Now I am anxious to hear what happens with the rest of the story.