The Ward of the Castle

The O'Brien Tales, Book 10

By: Stacey Reynolds

Narrated by: Justine Eyre

Spanning two decades, from the wild coast of a Tasmanian penal colony to the west coast of Ireland, an exiled rebel’s betrayal precedes his return to his homeland.

In mid-nineteenth-century Ireland, a small girl arrives on the same dock her mother departed from six years earlier. Laoise Hogan is alone, traumatized, and bearing letters from her mother addressed to the man who abandoned them. Sir Lucius O’Brien, 5th Baronet, 13th Baron Inchiquin, is summoned to Dublin by an orphan society. He finds himself face to face with a small girl whose haunted face looks eerily similar to his brother's.

Phelan McCrohan and his cousin Pearl have enjoyed a simple and safe childhood on Inishean, nestled away from the harsh realities of mainland Ireland. Now grown, they must leave the protection of their island home to widen their social opportunities and further their education. As Phelan and his friend Jefferson finish school and seek employment, Phelan finds himself in service to Sir Lucius O’Brien. As he settles into his life in Co. Clare, the last thing he needs is to be distracted by the lovely and mysterious ward of the castle, Laoise O’Brien.

Centered around Dromoland Castle and the political turmoil of post-famine Ireland, four young people learn the value of friendship and the power of true love.

©2023 Stacey Reynolds (P)2023 Podium Audio

I’ve listened to all of the O’Brien books

Waited patiently (or really impatiently) for this one. It was really good but I can’t quite tie it in with the others in the series. I thought maybe there would be some “time hopping” but there wasn’t. Now I’ll have to go back and re-listen to the others to see exactly where Liesha fits in. The narrator did a great job on almost all of the characters. Just 1-2 minor ones didn’t sound “right”. Will there be another in the series?

Grand Altogether!

Loved the backstory of the O’Brien and Ryan clans. If you’ve read The O’Brien Tales, this is a must read. Ms. Reynolds has woven history and family intriguingly together once again. I am so glad Ms. Eyre continues the narration. Congratulations Stacey, you knocked this one out of the park.

Family story

This series is wonderful. I look forward to each book and am sad when the book is over

Hope and Joy

Stacey Reynolds knocked it out of the ballpark with another O'Brien tale! I don't think I will ever get tired of the compelling stories of this family or of Justine Eyre's beautiful and expressive voice.

I love how the author ties previous books together, weaving history and family trials, loves and adventures together into a lovely tapestry tied up with a blue/grey bow! I can't wait for the next adventure!

Another Stellar Tale!

I've always enjoyed the way the author builds your connection with the characters and makes you feel what they feel--this was definitely the case in this most recent installment of her series. The build-up to the main character's relationship, the tenderness & care between the two, yhe sweet friendships forged between the three ladies, the tie back to The Keeper toward the end--all of these aspects brought so much joy in this story. Highly recommend & will patiently await Stacey's next masterpiece :) Happy reading, All!