Tipperary - Frank Delaney

Tipperary
By: Frank Delaney
Published: 2007
Audiobook Read by: Frank Delaney
My rating: Great








This was another random selection that turned out to be a wonderful choice!

Michael Nugent has a tale to tell, one that in the beginning simply appealed to his curiosity about Irish history, but in the end he finds that he himself is deeply entwined with the story!

Charles O'Brien grew up near Tipperary Castle and never tired of imagining himself as it's lord and master. As an adult his fantasy took a new turn when he met the apparent heir to the estate, the lovely, young, April Burke. But destiny did not seem to be on his side when April flatly and cruelly rebuffed his advances. Charles was not one to give up so easily. Despite twenty years of failure, he never gave up on his love of April.

Not only is this a story of love, but it is a story of Ireland's struggle for independence. We follow Charles and April as they feel the devastating effects of war. They love their country and are willing to sacrifice for it. However, the question is not will they sacrifice, but rather how much will they sacrifice?

This was a fascinating look at the Irish culture of the early 1900s. I was fascinated by the tale of revolution and the story of men and women who gave so much of themselves to win freedom. Even though the book itself is fiction, it draws much from true history and piqued my curiosity to learn more about this chaotic time in Ireland. I love stories about Ireland and the picture of life there. This book is full of love and laughter, fear and tragedy, sacrifice and courage, and a cast of characters who captured my imagination and carried me away to that long ago time and place!

I also loved the description of Tipperary castle and the enormous task of restoring it to it's former magnificence! I have always loved old buildings and the idea of an ancient castle with all the trimmings was a joy for me!

I listened to the audiobook read by Frank Delaney who turned out to be a wonderful exception to my conclusion that authors should not read their own books. Frank was absolutely wonderful! I loved his accent and he did a phenomenal job with all of the different characters!

Overall this was a great book and I would recommend it to anyone who has an interest in history. It will also appeal to anyone who loves a good romance but don't expect your normal love story!