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Irish hope

Donna Fletcher

First published 2001 · 378 pages

A spirited journey through historical Ireland where a clever disguise sparks a slow-burn romance built on proximity and hidden truths.

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What it feels like

This historical romance delivers a brisk, adventurous journey steeped in the sweeping atmosphere of early Ireland. The narrative thrives on the delicious, yearning tension of the hidden identity trope, placing a spirited, rebellious heroine in close proximity with a charming protector. As they travel together, the mood shifts from playful deception to deep, earnest passion, capturing the emotional weight of choosing true love over societal duty. The prose focuses on the intimate, simmering connection between the leads, balancing the rugged historical setting with tender emotional stakes. It is a perfect read for those who devour classic romance tropes, delighting in the slow unraveling of secrets and the irresistible pull of a love that defies expectations.

Mood: sweeping
yearning
spirited
Tone: romantic
earnest
adventurous
passionate
Pace: brisk
Themes: hidden identities · defying expectations · the tension of proximity · choosing love over duty
The writing: Traditional historical romance prose that balances sweeping historical atmosphere with intimate, tension-filled character interactions.
The arc: Moves from restless rebellion and playful deception to deep, yearning vulnerability and the courage to risk one's heart.
Who it's for: Readers who love classic historical romances featuring spirited heroines, road-trip proximity, and the delicious tension of a disguise trope.

Content notes

arranged marriage
deception

About the book

Hope is a privileged ancestor of the high king, but she's impetuous and adventurous to a fault. Rather than settle for an arranged marriage, she strikes out on her own, disguised as a young boy, desperate to experience life and love-no matter the risk...

It falls to Colin of Shanekill to find Hope. He can best any man in battle and charm any woman in bed, but he has never known true love. During his search he takes a young boy under his protection, never realizing that the woman for whom he searches walks beside him. As they travel, Hope comes to love Colin as no woman has. Desire tests her resolve and her deception becomes more difficult to maintain. Now, as she approaches her destination, she faces a choice: reveal her true self to Colin, or deny her passion and risk losing her only chance at love...

Description from Open Library.

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