Review of 'The Book of Irish Secrets' by Susanne O'Leary
Release date: August 29th, 2025
Publisher: Bookouture
REVIEW
‘Sometimes you have to sacrifice things you love for the greater good.’
I absolutely adored The Book of Irish Secrets for many reasons. For one, it is a story about searching your family roots. (Something I enjoy doing as well with my own Irish ancestry.) In this case, getting answers to some troubling questions to the reasons behind a Fleury scandal. In the background of this powerful Irish family is lurking a shocking secret. But one member feels the need to make things right. To heal a rift between two branches. To restore unity; to bring everyone together for a happier future.
Since this is part of a series, those who have read the previous editions, have met some of the characters before. So it was a real joy to revisit their lives again and see what has transpired. Plus we meet a few new faces. The story focuses on forty-nine year old Claire Fleury who lives in Dublin and wants to run away from home. It is her birthday and someone has sent her a gift. Her mind rolls back to the last present she received. It was from her ex-husband. A letter of his actions to leave her and move to Spain. This announcement was a shock, even though she knew their relationship was not great. This time, her unexpected gift is a welcomed surprised. A package from her late Auntie Rachel, handled by her estate’s solicitor. What she finds within, is a diary created by her aunt that contains some valuable information that will send her on a journey that will change her life.
This mission is just what she needs after dealing with rejection issues, due to her failed marriage with her ex-husband Hugh. Her self-confidence has been shaken, therefore making her a bit timid in how she will approach the task at hand. She knows it won’t take much adversity to expose her insecurities. But armed with a dash of courage and her Aunt Rachel’s diary containing the Fleury history, she heads towards her destination to get answers and hopefully have a fresh start.
When a job advert lands in her inbox (sent by her best friend Finola), she gets excited as it suits her interests perfectly. She writes a ‘mad’ cover letter fuelled by her new freedom, sends it in with her CV and then continues on her journey to Kerry. With her parents now dead, she contemplates, ‘How can feuds and bad blood be so persistent through so many generations?’ This inquisitive thread runs through the storyline and is cleverly handled by the author. I enjoyed Claire’s journey and desire to reunite the two branches of her family. Along the way, she becomes close to a special man, who will be part of her future. Yes, a quiet romance filters through the plot adding a happy direction for Claire who has been through a lot.
Once again Susanne O’Leary’s writing skills and her descriptions of Kerry, dazzled and uplifted my heart. This is a moving romantic ancestral mystery that made me feel many emotions. And yes, there is a villain, a bit tamer than some! But Claire handles his attempt at controlling her like a true Fleury woman with skill, strength and a bit of bossiness! Loved, loved, loved The Book of Irish Secrets and highly recommend it. This story filled with enthralling Irish charm is another winner! And I look forward to the next chapter of the Fleury family saga! 5 Happy Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Thanks to Bookouture and Netgalley for the ARC.
