5.0 out of 5 starsA special place in my heart
As a Marine wife with a husband suffering from PTSD this book hit home. I laughed.. I cried a lot... but reading this story unfold, filled my heart with hope, love, and thanks.
This book has definitely became one of my all time favorites.
5.0 out of 5 stars Heartstrings Plucked Like a Pawn Shop Guitar
Byalion November 10, 2016
Wow. As someone from Jacksonville, NC, this pulled on the heartstrings. I was weary about moving on from the first book, not wanting to let go of Michael and Brannah, but book 2 did not disappoint. When is the 3rd one coming out and when are we going to be graced by a movie-please and thank you.
As a Marine wife with a husband suffering from PTSD this book hit home. I laughed.. I cried a lot... but reading this story unfold, filled my heart with hope, love, and thanks.
This book has definitely became one of my all time favorites.
5.0 out of 5 stars Heartstrings Plucked Like a Pawn Shop Guitar
Byalion November 10, 2016
Wow. As someone from Jacksonville, NC, this pulled on the heartstrings. I was weary about moving on from the first book, not wanting to let go of Michael and Brannah, but book 2 did not disappoint. When is the 3rd one coming out and when are we going to be graced by a movie-please and thank you.
THIS REVIEW CONTAINS A SMALL SPOILER
*****5 out of 5 stars! The second installment of the O'Brien Clan Tales is the story of Aidan and Alanna. This author blew me away with her first book, and I must confess to wondering how she'd top it, but dare I say she pulled it off. We saw these two characters meet at the end of the Raven of the Sea, and the book sparks flew, but in A Lantern in the Dark, those sparks take hold and burn oh-so-hot.
When Aidan is sent to Camp Lejeune to train as part of an exchange program, he stays at his new sister-in-law's place on the beach...in the same duplex as Alanna. Their first "hello" after several months since that first introduction is met with a Louisville Slugger, but there's no denying the chemistry. We are introduced to a team of Marines that leaves you laughing, families that leave you crying, but we meet some characters, such as Mo, that I hope get their own book and HEA as this series continues. One of the characters I really enjoyed seeing more of in this book was Seany Jr. The youngest O'Brien visits his brother in the States, and it was so good to see they amazing young man he is becoming.
Ms. Reynolds also uses her story to shine a light on two very important issues with this book: PTSD and TBIs suffered by our military veterans, and without giving too much away...stalking. Both characters have their demons to battle, both are stubborn and refuse help but both long for a better life free of those demons, and together they learn that it's better to wage such a battle with a little help and support from the one person meant to be by your side. It was pure joy to watch Aidan and Alanna's friendship grow and develop into the kind of love and commitment that's meant to last a lifetime.
I hope you love this book as much as I did. It'll definitely be one I re-read over and over in the years to come. Laugh, cry, or process the emotions she'll invoke however you must, this book will not disappoint.
*****5 out of 5 stars! The second installment of the O'Brien Clan Tales is the story of Aidan and Alanna. This author blew me away with her first book, and I must confess to wondering how she'd top it, but dare I say she pulled it off. We saw these two characters meet at the end of the Raven of the Sea, and the book sparks flew, but in A Lantern in the Dark, those sparks take hold and burn oh-so-hot.
When Aidan is sent to Camp Lejeune to train as part of an exchange program, he stays at his new sister-in-law's place on the beach...in the same duplex as Alanna. Their first "hello" after several months since that first introduction is met with a Louisville Slugger, but there's no denying the chemistry. We are introduced to a team of Marines that leaves you laughing, families that leave you crying, but we meet some characters, such as Mo, that I hope get their own book and HEA as this series continues. One of the characters I really enjoyed seeing more of in this book was Seany Jr. The youngest O'Brien visits his brother in the States, and it was so good to see they amazing young man he is becoming.
Ms. Reynolds also uses her story to shine a light on two very important issues with this book: PTSD and TBIs suffered by our military veterans, and without giving too much away...stalking. Both characters have their demons to battle, both are stubborn and refuse help but both long for a better life free of those demons, and together they learn that it's better to wage such a battle with a little help and support from the one person meant to be by your side. It was pure joy to watch Aidan and Alanna's friendship grow and develop into the kind of love and commitment that's meant to last a lifetime.
I hope you love this book as much as I did. It'll definitely be one I re-read over and over in the years to come. Laugh, cry, or process the emotions she'll invoke however you must, this book will not disappoint.
I have fallen in love!!!!
By montanagal12 on August 15, 2016
I just finished first time author Stacey Reynold's book Raven of the Sea and I have fallen in love!! Not only with Stacey's writing style, which is crisp, witty, raw and heartfelt, but also with the richly built characters. I have fallen in love with the old guys, the young guys and even Branna herself! Strong women characters and a deep respect for our military is a common theme throughout the book. And the romance??? Hot, hot, hot!!! I honestly felt transported to Ireland ever time I picked up this book! Stacey did her research in regards to all the little details that encouraged me to escape to a land rich with history, music and tradition with every turn of the page. HIGHLY RECOMMEND ans can't wait for the next one!!!!
By montanagal12 on August 15, 2016
I just finished first time author Stacey Reynold's book Raven of the Sea and I have fallen in love!! Not only with Stacey's writing style, which is crisp, witty, raw and heartfelt, but also with the richly built characters. I have fallen in love with the old guys, the young guys and even Branna herself! Strong women characters and a deep respect for our military is a common theme throughout the book. And the romance??? Hot, hot, hot!!! I honestly felt transported to Ireland ever time I picked up this book! Stacey did her research in regards to all the little details that encouraged me to escape to a land rich with history, music and tradition with every turn of the page. HIGHLY RECOMMEND ans can't wait for the next one!!!!
5.0 out of 5 starsTotally Hooked On This Debut Novel! MUST READ!
By Kindle Customer on July 1, 2016
Verified Purchase
In her debut novel author, Stacey Reynolds, takes us across the pond to Ireland, the place where magic happens and love can grow.
After the loss of her mother, and years after the tragic loss of her father, our heroine, Branna, packs it all up and moves home to the country of her ancestors. Having managed her parents' rental properties for several years, she knows all the ins and outs of buying and managing property, so she thinks she's dotted all her i's and crossed all her t's when she buys a lovely cottage, sight unseen, in a small coastal village in Ireland. Little does she know until she arrives that it won't be quite that easy.
Enter our hero of the story, Michael. As the second eldest son of Sean and Sorcha O'Brien owning the little cottage has been his goal and dream for as long as he can remember, so you can imagine his shock and upset when he learns it's been sold out from under him to an American. Then he learns he still may have a chance at his dream, even if that means living with Branna to do it. But don't worry, he discovers that's not quite the hardship he anticipated.
Ms. Reynolds sets a beautiful scene against the Cliffs of Moher, and introduces us to cast of characters I found to be fully developed and engaging. To keep it real, they'll make you laugh out loud, and, well, they made me cry, too. Sometimes both at the same damn time.
Branna is the daughter of a US Marine, killed in action in Fallujah, a mother who dies of breast cancer, and an only child of only children. She has no family to speak of. She doesn't have any real roots. Michael is from a large Irish Catholic family and a rescue swimmer with the Irish Coast Guard, and his roots When these two come together the sparks fly!
So many times when you read a contemporary romance, it's almost this "insta-love" situation. You won't find that in this book. What you will find with "Raven of the Sea" is that these characters have an attraction from the first, but throughout the course of the book it grows and develops, building on a strong foundation of friendship, and well mutual trials and aggravation. And it doesn't hurt that when they finally come together, the sex is HAWT! Let me just tell you, after reading this, you'll want to run out and buy a freestanding butcher block for your kitchen, too. HAHA!
I found Branna to be likable, although I wanted to knock her upside her head a time or two, but I also understood a bit of her struggle. She's still grieving the loss of her parents, and she's sorting through some residual anger at her mother. She finds it comforting to be welcomed into this loving O'Brien clan, first as a friend, and later as more, but she often feels like an intruder. I absolutely fell in love with Michael. He's definitely in my personal "Book Boyfriends Hall of Fame." He's fresh from a bad relationship, but there's nothing he wants more than to love his family and maybe one day have his own. He wants what his parents have, but his ex left a bad taste in his mouth, and at first, he's not sure what to do with the spitfire that is Branna, but he's got a pretty good idea of what he'd like to do.
Aside from the hero and heroine of the story, you'll be introduced to an entire cast of characters that totally leaving you wanting more of them. I was so excited to learn that this book is the first in a series of books about the O'Brien clan, and that Ms. Reynolds will definitely be giving us more of big brother Aidan, cousin Tadgh, and all the rest.
For a debut novel, Ms. Reynolds knocks it out of the park! I loved watching these two characters grow as individuals and come together to not only love each other, but grow together as a couple. There's no cliffhanger, but that doesn't mean you won't be left anxious for the next installment. I know I can't wait!
5.0 out of 5 starsTotally Hooked On This Debut Novel! MUST READ!
By Kindle Customer on July 1, 2016
Verified Purchase
In her debut novel author, Stacey Reynolds, takes us across the pond to Ireland, the place where magic happens and love can grow.
After the loss of her mother, and years after the tragic loss of her father, our heroine, Branna, packs it all up and moves home to the country of her ancestors. Having managed her parents' rental properties for several years, she knows all the ins and outs of buying and managing property, so she thinks she's dotted all her i's and crossed all her t's when she buys a lovely cottage, sight unseen, in a small coastal village in Ireland. Little does she know until she arrives that it won't be quite that easy.
Enter our hero of the story, Michael. As the second eldest son of Sean and Sorcha O'Brien owning the little cottage has been his goal and dream for as long as he can remember, so you can imagine his shock and upset when he learns it's been sold out from under him to an American. Then he learns he still may have a chance at his dream, even if that means living with Branna to do it. But don't worry, he discovers that's not quite the hardship he anticipated.
Ms. Reynolds sets a beautiful scene against the Cliffs of Moher, and introduces us to cast of characters I found to be fully developed and engaging. To keep it real, they'll make you laugh out loud, and, well, they made me cry, too. Sometimes both at the same damn time.
Branna is the daughter of a US Marine, killed in action in Fallujah, a mother who dies of breast cancer, and an only child of only children. She has no family to speak of. She doesn't have any real roots. Michael is from a large Irish Catholic family and a rescue swimmer with the Irish Coast Guard, and his roots When these two come together the sparks fly!
So many times when you read a contemporary romance, it's almost this "insta-love" situation. You won't find that in this book. What you will find with "Raven of the Sea" is that these characters have an attraction from the first, but throughout the course of the book it grows and develops, building on a strong foundation of friendship, and well mutual trials and aggravation. And it doesn't hurt that when they finally come together, the sex is HAWT! Let me just tell you, after reading this, you'll want to run out and buy a freestanding butcher block for your kitchen, too. HAHA!
I found Branna to be likable, although I wanted to knock her upside her head a time or two, but I also understood a bit of her struggle. She's still grieving the loss of her parents, and she's sorting through some residual anger at her mother. She finds it comforting to be welcomed into this loving O'Brien clan, first as a friend, and later as more, but she often feels like an intruder. I absolutely fell in love with Michael. He's definitely in my personal "Book Boyfriends Hall of Fame." He's fresh from a bad relationship, but there's nothing he wants more than to love his family and maybe one day have his own. He wants what his parents have, but his ex left a bad taste in his mouth, and at first, he's not sure what to do with the spitfire that is Branna, but he's got a pretty good idea of what he'd like to do.
Aside from the hero and heroine of the story, you'll be introduced to an entire cast of characters that totally leaving you wanting more of them. I was so excited to learn that this book is the first in a series of books about the O'Brien clan, and that Ms. Reynolds will definitely be giving us more of big brother Aidan, cousin Tadgh, and all the rest.
For a debut novel, Ms. Reynolds knocks it out of the park! I loved watching these two characters grow as individuals and come together to not only love each other, but grow together as a couple. There's no cliffhanger, but that doesn't mean you won't be left anxious for the next installment. I know I can't wait!
5.0 out of 5 stars I can function as a human again-, July 21, 2016
By ali
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This review is from: Raven of the Sea: An O'Brien Tale (The O'Brien Tales Book 1) (Kindle Edition)
Because I can finally put this book down! This book was very satisfying. The imagery, music references and characters were all beyond enjoyable to become immersed and partially obsessed with. Not to mention to homage to the military services that both important men in my life serve in (USMC & USCG). Well done, I am waiting not-so patiently for the second one! You're excused Christian Grey, hello Michael O'Brien!
By ali
Verified Purchase(What's this?)
This review is from: Raven of the Sea: An O'Brien Tale (The O'Brien Tales Book 1) (Kindle Edition)
Because I can finally put this book down! This book was very satisfying. The imagery, music references and characters were all beyond enjoyable to become immersed and partially obsessed with. Not to mention to homage to the military services that both important men in my life serve in (USMC & USCG). Well done, I am waiting not-so patiently for the second one! You're excused Christian Grey, hello Michael O'Brien!
5.0 out of 5 starsBuy this book NOW!
By S. Ukeiley on July 5, 2016
Verified Purchase
Full disclosure: the author is a good friend and I was one of her beta readers. That being said, we have the type of friendship where I would not lie and tell you this book is awesome if it wasn't. Because it is. There is a lot to choose from in the contemporary romance genre, but so much of it is not nearly as well written as Stacey's book. The woman is a master of the slow burn ... the sexual tension built up for so long that if I was a guy I would have had blue balls! But when she finally delivered, it was gooooood! So do yourself a favor and buy this book. You won't be disappointed.
5.0 out of 5 starsBuy this book NOW!
By S. Ukeiley on July 5, 2016
Verified Purchase
Full disclosure: the author is a good friend and I was one of her beta readers. That being said, we have the type of friendship where I would not lie and tell you this book is awesome if it wasn't. Because it is. There is a lot to choose from in the contemporary romance genre, but so much of it is not nearly as well written as Stacey's book. The woman is a master of the slow burn ... the sexual tension built up for so long that if I was a guy I would have had blue balls! But when she finally delivered, it was gooooood! So do yourself a favor and buy this book. You won't be disappointed.
5.0 out of 5 starsA Fantastic Book You Can't Put Down
By Danielle T on July 6, 2016
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I can not say enough great things about this book. I was not able to put it down and wound up finishing it in 3 days, which is amazing for me. The writing is absolutely beautiful and the story keeps you guessing and entertained through the entire book. The author wrote from the heart and did her research when writing, which is evident in the writing. It is very hard to believe that this is a debut book and I can mot wait to read more of the author's work.
5.0 out of 5 starsA Fantastic Book You Can't Put Down
By Danielle T on July 6, 2016
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I can not say enough great things about this book. I was not able to put it down and wound up finishing it in 3 days, which is amazing for me. The writing is absolutely beautiful and the story keeps you guessing and entertained through the entire book. The author wrote from the heart and did her research when writing, which is evident in the writing. It is very hard to believe that this is a debut book and I can mot wait to read more of the author's work.
5.0 out of 5 starsSpellbinding
ByM. Kaskelaon July 4, 2016
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This book is absolutely enchanting. It made me laugh, cry, and become flush. From the very beginning, I was enthralled in the story of these captivating characters. I could not put the book down and am beyond excited for the next installment to come out so I can find out what happens to the rest of the clan.
5.0 out of 5 starsWow......
ByErin R. Smithon July 2, 2016
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The characters, the scenery, the food...the family. All so very real as I read and couldn't put this book down. I look forward to many more O'Brien tales!!
5.0 out of 5 starsMust Read!
By Leah M Hanson on July 7, 2016
Format: Kindle Edition Verified Purchase
I was hooked from the very beginning of this book. I did not want to miss a single word as I could easily envision the setting and experiences through the writing and descriptions. I experienced every emotion possible while reading this amazing story; pure joy and out-loud laughter, frustration and anger, and sadness that wet my face. I loved that the main characters developed a friendship and foundation for their growing love for each other. The anticipation for these characters to acknowledge their feelings was real and when they finally did, it was amazingly explosive. I look forward to reading the future O'Brien family adventures!
By Leah M Hanson on July 7, 2016
Format: Kindle Edition Verified Purchase
I was hooked from the very beginning of this book. I did not want to miss a single word as I could easily envision the setting and experiences through the writing and descriptions. I experienced every emotion possible while reading this amazing story; pure joy and out-loud laughter, frustration and anger, and sadness that wet my face. I loved that the main characters developed a friendship and foundation for their growing love for each other. The anticipation for these characters to acknowledge their feelings was real and when they finally did, it was amazingly explosive. I look forward to reading the future O'Brien family adventures!
5.0 out of 5 starsAwesome read
By Carrie A. on July 7, 2016
Format: Kindle Edition Verified Purchase
A true romantic story set in Ireland. First novel for this author but you would never have guessed it! Well written, great, lovable characters and a fresh storyline that you don't see everyday makes for a great read! I will be following this author to see what she comes up with next.
5.0 out of 5 starsAwesome read
By Carrie A. on July 7, 2016
Format: Kindle Edition Verified Purchase
A true romantic story set in Ireland. First novel for this author but you would never have guessed it! Well written, great, lovable characters and a fresh storyline that you don't see everyday makes for a great read! I will be following this author to see what she comes up with next.
5.0 out of 5 starsCaptivating
Bynmayuleon July 7, 2016
Format: Kindle Edition|Verified Purchase
This was a captivating book! I could hardly put it down. Beautifully written. I can't wait for more!
... but I just finished the book last night and LOVED IT!, July 9, 2016
By
Amazon Customer
Verified Purchase(What's this?)
This review is from: Raven of the Sea: An O'Brien Tale (The O'Brien Tales Book 1) (Kindle Edition)
I don't typically leave reviews and I am not the most eloquent writer myself but I just finished the book last night and LOVED IT!! The novel is well written and I found myself immersed in the story within a couple of chapters. The characters were authentic and vibrant. I am so excited to read the next book.
... but I just finished the book last night and LOVED IT!, July 9, 2016
By
Amazon Customer
Verified Purchase(What's this?)
This review is from: Raven of the Sea: An O'Brien Tale (The O'Brien Tales Book 1) (Kindle Edition)
I don't typically leave reviews and I am not the most eloquent writer myself but I just finished the book last night and LOVED IT!! The novel is well written and I found myself immersed in the story within a couple of chapters. The characters were authentic and vibrant. I am so excited to read the next book.
5.0 out of 5 starsA great read for a trip to the beach, a weekend at home or just because.
By Amazon Customer on July 9, 2016
Format: Kindle Edition Verified Purchase
Beautifully written. The story takes you along on a journey from America to the coasts of Ireland. As a reader, I was pulled into the love and excitement that guided the stories of this book. Being the daughter of Marines and the wife of a Coast Guardsman, I connected with Branna's story. I'm excited to find out what comes next for Branna, Michael, and the rest of the O'Briens.
5.0 out of 5 starsA great read for a trip to the beach, a weekend at home or just because.
By Amazon Customer on July 9, 2016
Format: Kindle Edition Verified Purchase
Beautifully written. The story takes you along on a journey from America to the coasts of Ireland. As a reader, I was pulled into the love and excitement that guided the stories of this book. Being the daughter of Marines and the wife of a Coast Guardsman, I connected with Branna's story. I'm excited to find out what comes next for Branna, Michael, and the rest of the O'Briens.
5.0 out of 5 starsFantastic debut novel. Hurry up with Book 2 please!!!!!
By Al Z. on July 10, 2016
Format: Kindle Edition Verified Purchase
Simply amazing! I could not put this book down!! Coming from a large Irish Catholic family myself, I can truthfully say Reynolds really nails the large family dynamic. Lots of one liners and jabs that only siblings can get away with. I had to remind myself that these were not real people. I really loved how the characters weren't always who they seemed to be. The description of the scenery, the pubs, and the museums make me want to take a trip to the homeland! Oh, and it is quite steamy...several times I had to close the kindle when other people came into the room. I am dying for book 2.
5.0 out of 5 starsFantastic debut novel. Hurry up with Book 2 please!!!!!
By Al Z. on July 10, 2016
Format: Kindle Edition Verified Purchase
Simply amazing! I could not put this book down!! Coming from a large Irish Catholic family myself, I can truthfully say Reynolds really nails the large family dynamic. Lots of one liners and jabs that only siblings can get away with. I had to remind myself that these were not real people. I really loved how the characters weren't always who they seemed to be. The description of the scenery, the pubs, and the museums make me want to take a trip to the homeland! Oh, and it is quite steamy...several times I had to close the kindle when other people came into the room. I am dying for book 2.
5.0 out of 5 starsCharacters worth getting to know! Definite Page Turner!!
ByCynthia M.on July 11, 2016
Format: Kindle Edition|Verified Purchase
It was a great story. I couldn't put it down. I fell in love with the characters!!! I cannot wait for the next 2 installments!
5.0 out of 5 starsWelcome to the O'Brien family!
ByMiKMarineon July 10, 2016
Format: Kindle Edition|Verified Purchase
If you loved the Frasers, you are going to really connect with the O'Briens! LOVED this story! Cannot wait to see what Stacey comes up with next! Absorbing and heartwarming, this first novel lavishly evokes the land and lore of Ireland, quickening both with realistic characters and a well-researched historical & military perspective. I predict a bright future for this talented author! Watch out Diana G! https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01GVTGRPA/ref=docs-os-doi_0
ByCynthia M.on July 11, 2016
Format: Kindle Edition|Verified Purchase
It was a great story. I couldn't put it down. I fell in love with the characters!!! I cannot wait for the next 2 installments!
5.0 out of 5 starsWelcome to the O'Brien family!
ByMiKMarineon July 10, 2016
Format: Kindle Edition|Verified Purchase
If you loved the Frasers, you are going to really connect with the O'Briens! LOVED this story! Cannot wait to see what Stacey comes up with next! Absorbing and heartwarming, this first novel lavishly evokes the land and lore of Ireland, quickening both with realistic characters and a well-researched historical & military perspective. I predict a bright future for this talented author! Watch out Diana G! https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01GVTGRPA/ref=docs-os-doi_0