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Review: The Lost Daughter's Irishman - Our House on Sycamore Street #12

The Lost Daughter's Irishman book cover on blue background

What a fun title to say! The Lost Daughter's Irishman by Carolyn Miller releases on October 11, 2024 and has been a great introduction to the Our House on Sycamore Street series for me.

Many thanks to the author for providing a complimentary copy of this book for review consideration. All opinions are my own.

Book Synopsis

She wants to find a way to live again; he wants to close a deal and move on. Until sparks fly and these opposites attract in this contemporary romance filled with heart and humour.

For Kara Browne, hiding out in Eden Cove provides a chance to heal after her life fell apart. Now, without a family or career, she juggles jobs while trying to find her feet again, thankful for this tiny community that has taken her to their heart. When a handsome Irishman appears in Eden Cove with his plans to take over the local luxury hotel where she works, his obvious wealth combined with a series of unfortunate events convince her that they’re worlds apart. Which they soon will be, seeing she’s already booked her ticket to the other side of the planet.

For Colin Fairall, his time in Eden Cove was supposed to be about closing a deal on a hotel to add to his family’s portfolio. He didn’t expect to become intrigued by a snarky barista who moonlights as a hotel cleaner and a barmaid, who obviously doesn’t care about his money or connections. He recognizes that she’s been bruised by life and wants to help her smile again. But despite shared faith and a fondness for 80s music trivia, Kara has plans for a fresh start on the other side of the world – unless he can convince her to trust him with her heart…

Source: Amazon

Book Thoughts

This insta-love story is a charming Sycamore Street introduction to Kara and Colin, who find themselves with a less than stellar beginning. Despite their first impressions, a sweet love starts to blossom and it is easy to root for them to truly open up to each other. The surrounding characters are lovely, protective, and everything that embodies a Christian community that cares for its neighbours. I appreciated the kindness that emanated from so many townspeople, making Eden Cove a gem of a setting.

The spiritual themes of trusting in God and walking in love over fear gradually develop over time and it is especially gratifying to witness spiritual growth. Colin and his family are sweethearts and their deep love for one another makes me want to keep reading on. Readers looking for an escape to this idyllic street where the neighbours look out for each other and even perform a little bit of matchmaking will like getting to meet Kara and Colin as they look to God to overcome their present circumstances.

Book Summary

  • Format of book: 📱
  • Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
  • Recommendation: 👍

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