In A Beautiful Ferocity, the second instalment of the Cullen's Celtic Cabaret Series, we're taken on a thrilling ride through the Roaring Twenties as Ireland fights for her freedom. Peter Cullen leads his troupe of eclectic performers through the troubled country, in a daring new direction, entertaining audiences who've had enough of the old ways. When their cabaret is threatened, the performers must fight to keep their dream alive, treading the dangerous line between propriety and entertainment.

When outside forces intervene, and put not just their livelihoods in danger, but their lives, loyalty, friendship and even the bonds of love are tested to the edge of endurance.

'A beautifully written historical novel with characters who linger long after the last page is turned.' Hazel Gaynor, New York Times bestselling author of The Girl Who Came Home

Society said they shouldn't fall in love...

It's 1828, and Ireland is in turmoil as Irish tenants protest against their upper-class English landlords.

Nineteen-year-old Bridget Muldowney is thrilled to return to the estate in Carlow she'll inherit when she comes of age. But since she left for Dublin seven years earlier, the tomboy has become a refined young lady, engaged to be married to a dashing English gentleman.

Cormac McGovern, now a stable hand on the estate, has missed his childhood friend. He and Bridget had once been thick as thieves, running wild around the countryside together.

When Bridget and Cormac meet again their friendship begins to rekindle, but it's different now that they are adults. Bridget's overbearing mother, determined to enforce the employer-servant boundaries, conspires with Bridget's fiancé to keep the pair apart.

With the odds stacked against them, can Bridget and Cormac's childhood attachment blossom into something more?

A Class Apart is the first book in Susie Murphy's historical fiction series A Matter of Class. The story continues in the second book, A Class Entwined.

Praise for A Class Apart:

'Susie Murphy writes with intelligence and assurance and has a real talent for capturing an authentic sense of time and place. I look forward to reading more from this bright new voice in historical fiction.' Hazel Gaynor, New York Times bestselling author of The Girl Who Came Home

'I am completely blown away by this series...Simply outstanding.' Book Reviews for U, book reviewer

'Excellent characters and an interesting plot...The chemistry and romance between the two was well written and believable.' The Lit Bitch, book reviewer

'Romance, drama, suspense, and beautiful scenery reign supreme in A Class Apart...The story encompasses the real truths that the people in Ireland had to face in their time, weaving a heartrending tale that's impossible not to read.' Ashley O'Melia, author and freelance writer

'A richly detailed, historical tale of love against all odds...As you read this story you will fall deeper and deeper into the history of Ireland at the time, into the characters themselves, and into the emotions that are so vividly described that you cannot help but be caught up in it all too.' Books Of All Kinds, book reviewer

'For those of you who like Historical Fiction, you are in for a real treat...I devoured this book.' Coffee, Books and China Cups, book reviewer

What readers are saying:

★★★★★ 'The Irish Downton Abbey! Fabulous.'

★★★★★ 'If it was possible to give 100 stars to this book, I would!'

★★★★★ 'An absolute page turner.'

★★★★★ 'I loved the book from start to finish.'

★★★★★ 'A brilliant love story.'

★★★★★ 'A hugely satisfying read.'

★★★★★ 'Get ready to fall in love!'

★★★★★ 'This is going to be a fantastic series of novels.'

★★★★★ 'Superbly written.'

★★★★★ 'I am already itching to read the next book in the series!'

'Susie Murphy...is an absolute HIT...This is another excellent installment to a beautiful series.' The Lit Bitch, book reviewer

Their choices have shackled her dreams...

It's 1836, and Bridget and Cormac have arrived, full of hope, to the city of Boston with their growing family. However, as they adjust to domestic life together for the first time, they face anti-Irish sentiment from the local Americans, as well as a threat to their happiness from a much closer source.

Cormac undertakes the challenging search for his missing sister, Bronagh. He is determined to do all he can to put the broken pieces of his family back together, but the appalling truth he uncovers will shake him to his core.

Meanwhile, as Emily grows up in this new country, she realises how her parents' past actions will affect her entire future and she begins to covet that which is no longer within her reach. When she receives an unexpected proposition, will she be able to resist its temptation, despite the untrustworthy nature of the person behind it?

A Class Coveted is the fourth book in Susie Murphy's historical fiction series A Matter of Class. The story continues in the fifth book, A Class Reunited.

Praise for A Class Coveted:

'A Class Coveted is author Susie Murphy's BEST book yet...An outstanding read that I just didn't want to end.' Book Reviews for U, book reviewer

'Simply superb storytelling...a story of love and family to savor. Strongly recommended.' Historical Novel Society (May 2022 issue Historical Novels Review)

'Once again, Susie Murphy has created a page-turning and beautifully paced novel...Her observations on class and culture blend seamlessly with the narrative.' Lisa Reads Books, book reviewer

'It's Outlander without the time travel, except that I'm absolutely traveling back in time while I read it.' Ashley O'Melia, author and freelance writer

'It felt like meeting up with old friends, and I couldn't read it fast enough.' Coffee, Books and China Cups, book reviewer

'Each book keeps getting better and better...Susie Murphy wields her pen in her usual style, making the reader both cheer and weep for her characters.' Kelsey Gietl, author of the War Across Waters duology

What readers are saying:

★★★★★ 'The story keeps getting better and better!'

★★★★★ 'Of all the books in the series, this was my favorite.'

★★★★★ 'I absolutely could not put this book down.'

★★★★★ 'Well worth the wait!'

★★★★★ 'A must read for those who love historical family sagas.'

★★★★★ 'Heartfelt and tender and heartbreaking and uplifting.'

★★★★★ 'Wow! Another great read in this wonderful series.'

★★★★★ 'Well paced and gripping, with an exciting finish.'

★★★★★ 'I love following the characters through their triumphs and turmoil.'

★★★★★ 'I can't wait for the next book.'

EDITORS' CHOICE, HISTORICAL NOVEL SOCIETY

'This series keeps getting better...Once I started reading this book, it was so hard to stop...Such evocative writing.' Elizabeth Bell, author of the Lazare Family Saga

His past could destroy their future...

Having escaped capture in London, Bridget and Cormac flee to Ireland with their daughter, Emily. Their homecoming is bittersweet as they embark upon the daunting task of searching for Cormac's family who have been missing for over seven years.

Their journey takes them back to the familiar surroundings of the Oakleigh Estate in Carlow but their childhood home has become a different place to the one they remember. As they confront the consequences of Bridget's embittered mother's actions, they must also come to terms with an agonising choice between family and duty.

And when Cormac's murky past catches up with him, endangering the ones he loves, will the threat be great enough to crush the hopeful future he and Bridget have envisioned together?

A Class Forsaken is the third book in Susie Murphy's historical fiction series A Matter of Class. The story continues in the fourth book, A Class Coveted.

Praise for A Class Forsaken:

'Fast-paced and full of obstacles and adventure. Highly recommended for fans of historical romance and Irish history.' Editors' Choice, Historical Novel Society (February 2021 issue Historical Novels Review)

'Not only are Murphy's characters well developed, interesting, and genuine, but their love story is epic...These books have been wonderful reads and capture the essence of sweeping saga.' The Lit Bitch, book reviewer

'Susie writes this third instalment to the series with such love for her characters. Her work is so beautifully written, her attention to detail superb...You will love it if you enjoy historical fiction.' Book Reviews for U, book reviewer

'I loved how rich in detail the scenes were...I just flew through the pages...With adventure and drama and romance, this is a series I'll continue to recommend left, right and centre.' Between My Lines, book reviewer

'Susie Murphy's writing is powerful, romantic and absolutely page turning. Once again I was pulled into the story by the powerful storytelling and the carefully crafted and fully rounded characters.' Lisa Reads Books, book reviewer

'Murphy must own a time machine, or else she couldn't possibly do such a good job of sucking a modern-day reader completely back into 1800s Ireland. The story of Bridget and Cormac comes vividly to life in this sweeping tale of romance.' Ashley O'Melia, author and freelance writer

'Susie Murphy is an exceptional writer, with a keen ability for creating memorable characters and sweeping settings...Settle in for your new favorite book series.' Pursuing Stacie, book reviewer

What readers are saying:

★★★★★ 'This is a fantastic saga! I am completely hooked!'

★★★★★ 'Wonderful continuation of an epic love story.'

★★★★★ 'I enjoyed every minute of it.'

★★★★★ 'Characters that truly stay with you.'

★★★★★ 'Fabulous book, as gripping as the first two!'

★★★★★ 'If you love romance and historical regency then this series is for you.'

★★★★★ 'I just couldn't put it down.'

★★★★★ 'The continued storyline is a page turner.'

★★★★★ 'Highly recommended for any lover of Irish history and romance novels.'

★★★★★ 'I can't wait for the next book in the series!'

'There's something that happens at the end of every Susie Murphy book that I read; I absolutely cannot wait for the next one.' Kelsey Gietl, author of the War Across Waters duology

They'll do anything to protect their children...

Having taken matters into her own hands, a triumphant Emily is travelling towards a brighter future. The only thorn in her side is her mulish companion, Rory, who insists upon aggravating her at every opportunity. She believes she has become mistress of her own destiny but a monumental betrayal dashes her hopes and leaves her in a highly precarious position.

Back in Boston, the family she left behind are reeling from the impact of her rash actions. Faced with a difficult decision, they find themselves pulled in different directions. In the midst of fear and uncertainty, further peril befalls them, putting their sons at terrible risk too.

How far will Cormac and Bridget go to save their children? And will their once-happy family ever be whole again?

A Class Reunited is the fifth book in Susie Murphy's historical fiction series A Matter of Class. The story will continue in the sixth book, A Class Inherited.

Praise for A Class Reunited:

'Compulsively readable...full of heartfelt drama and character growth.' Elizabeth Bell, author of the Lazare Family Saga

'Susie Murphy...has done an incredible job writing a nuanced and sweeping historical saga...Another wonderful read.' The Lit Bitch, book reviewer

'Outstanding...If you have not yet read this wonderful series then you have a treat in store.' Lisa Reads Books, book reviewer

'Another fantastic foray into the past, with danger, adventure, love, and terror around every corner... Susie Murphy is a truly gifted writer.' Ashley O'Melia, author and freelance writer

What readers are saying:

★★★★★ 'The best yet...I was on the edge of my seat.'

★★★★★ 'Another super read from a favorite author.'

★★★★★ 'Did not want to put this down!'

★★★★★ 'This series just captivates you.'

★★★★★ 'The storyline keeps getting better!'

★★★★★ 'You almost feel like you're in the book.'

★★★★★ 'Just WOW...such an emotional rollercoaster.'

★★★★★ 'Murphy hits a home run again!'

★★★★★ 'The characters in this series are so well drawn.'

★★★★★ 'Susie Murphy is a one-of-a-kind author.'

Dublin, Ireland 1915

Eighteen-year-old May Gallagher is beautiful but restless, and longs for the freedom to live her own life, to decide her own destiny. Mollycoddled as the only remaining child of middle-class parents in the suburbs, she sneaks out to the theatre when she can. She is mesmerised by the captivating actor Peter Cullen, and wishes she could enjoy a more bohemian life.

The Great War is taking all the boys away, and the promise that it will all be over by Christmas is ringing more hollow with each passing month.

Her parents would be appalled if they knew she'd befriended the enigmatic Peter, who was from the wrong side of the city, but there is something about him that intrigues May.

When catastrophe strikes Peter, it's to May that he turns, and in that moment she knows her life will never be the same again.

Harriet is an intriguing and original "take" on Jane Austen's immortal Emma, by Publishers Weekly's 2021 BookLife Prize Quarterfinalist, Alice McVeigh.

Emma, a privileged young heiress, decides to mentor Harriet Smith, a pretty boarding-school pupil, and to matchmake her as eligibly as she can... But how is she to guess that Harriet has a secret?

Meanwhile, the brilliant, penniless Jane Fairfax consents to a clandestine engagement with Frank Churchill - though not daring to confess, even to him, that she is being relentlessly pursued by her best friend's husband.

Harriet sidelines Emma herself in favour of the ingenious Harriet and the fascinating Jane Fairfax. It is Emma - but an Emma with a surprisingly believable twist in its tail.

"A dynamic take on a revered classic. This is still Austen's Emma-but the story that unfolds through the recollections of these two 'side' characters feels remarkably fresh... With or without an understanding of Emma, Harriet contains a fully-formed narrative that should satisfy even the choosiest Austen fans... Readers will rarely find the words 'page-turner' and 'Jane Austen' in the same sentence, but McVeigh's impeccably written Harriet certainly fits the bill." (IndieReader)

"A highly engrossing novel that captures the spirit of Austen and celebrates all the best qualities of her work from new and innovative angles... The characters are vibrant and full of life - McVeigh hits the mark spot-on." (Readers Favorite editorial review)

"An enchanting recreation of Austen's world" (James Conroyd Martin)

"McVeigh puts a unique spin on this fresh take of one of Jane Austen's most popular works. The characters are vibrant and full of life. McVeigh hits the mark spot-on, capturing the essence of Jane Austen's work and providing a rare glimpse into the headspace of some of her most popular secondary characters. I can honestly say that I didn't foresee the twist towards the end, yet in hindsight, it felt satisfying. Any fan of character-driven novels should grab a copy. (Readers Favorite Editorial review)

Classic regency fiction in the tradition of Pride and Prejudice: Harriet will appeal to Jane Austen groupies, Bridgerton fans and Georgette Heyer lovers alike.

When Conor's dream for Castle Dysert is facing ruin by circumstances outside his control he refuses to be beaten. Surely there must be a way to save everything they've worked so hard for? Then, as all hope seems lost, a solution in the form of a reality TV show called 'Grandma says we're Irish' presents itself. In the final book in the Tour series, Conor finds himself stuck in the middle of something that even he can't manage.

Carmel, a 40-year-old Irish woman, is living a life that's fine, not exciting or awful, just fine. She has a house, a husband, it's all okay. She never had kids, but that's just life, right? She knows she should be grateful. She's better off than a lot of people.

Then one day, out of the blue, she gets a Facebook message from a total stranger with information that could transform her life, for better or for much worse. It could be a scam. It could be malicious. It could be a crazy person.

But what if what they say is true?

Her finger hovers over the screen. Delete or reply?

In this gripping story, Carmel begins a journey of discovery that takes her back to a time long before she was born when love and loyalty, betrayals and secrets decided her fate. The reality of her true story is both shocking and heartwarming, and Carmel learns that in order to go forward, she must first make peace with her past.

The only man she's ever loved is seeing her sister.

And now they have to save her together.

Sally Hanan's sublime debut mixes the prose of Sue Monk Kidd with the dialogue of Maeve Binchy. With captivating warmth, she pulls us in to how it felt to live and love in Ireland's changing culture of the '80s, and how it often made a woman's decisions for her.

"I can't bear to keep walking. But you can't keep a secret in this town unless you leave with it."

Kept apart by their love for one man, two sisters embark on their own paths towards survival, love, and understanding, until all three finally meet again in the worst of circumstances. And the reality might break them all.

My Heart Went Walking is a heartbreakingly beautiful novel that sweeps from the small Irish town of Donegal to the "big smoke" of Dublin City; a book that celebrates the pull of family and the chance of redemption. It is a novel for everyone who feels connected to the Irish approach to life-that of grit and laughter-and also for everyone who loves an overriding message of hope and restoration in all things.

When Cullen's Celtic Cabaret rolls into a sleepy Irish seaside town, their eccentric and theatrical presence stirs up a flurry of excitement-the public clamouring to buy tickets for the greatest show in Ireland.

Set against the backdrop of a relentless war for Ireland's freedom, the stakes are higher than ever for Peter Cullen and his troupe as they try to stay out of the conflict. But as they soon discover, that's a luxury nobody can afford. As well as fighting the forces of occupation, some people are using this time of chaos to settle old scores, and it seems the cabaret has gathered some sinister enemies. With danger lurking around every corner, Peter must fight to protect all he's worked so hard to build.

Rivers of Wrath is the third book in the Cullen's Celtic Cabaret Series.

As someone raised in an orphanage, Carmel knows she should be grateful for a roof over her head and a respectable family, but she would love nothing more than to escape Birr, Co Offaly and get away from her husband, the monosyllabic Bill and his horrible sister forever.

Life as Mrs Sheehan should be bearable, all she had to do was look after the house and cook Bill's meals. She didn't even need to speak to him, in fact, he preferred that she didn't.

But, as her fortieth birthday approaches, Carmel knows the change must be now or never. Her birth mother has offered her a lifeline from beyond the grave in the form of handsome, charming and kind Dr Sharif Khan.

He's offering her a new life in London, one he assures her that her birth mother Dolly would want her to take, but the decision must be hers. A life filled with joy, friendship and the legacy of her mother's enduring love for her awaits.

But can Carmel do it and scandalise the parish? Can she finally realise her own worth and live her life on her own terms?

The Future's Not Ours to See is the next book in the Carmel Sheehan Story.

The opportunity of a lifetime lands in Peter Cullen's lap and nothing is going to stop him taking full advantage, not even the misgivings of his wife. Cullen's Celtic Cabaret has been flying high, but the real goal, the secret desire of Peter's heart, America, is finally, incredibly, looking like a reality.

The troupe are not at all prepared for what awaits them in prohibition era Atlantic City and they are dazzled by the bright lights. Keeping discipline and ensuring everyone remains focused drives Peter to the edge of his patience, but he soon realises that this is the least of his problems, as the gloss and sheen of the New Jersey shore reveals a dark side, and somehow his cabaret has fallen foul of it.

What begins as a summer of fun, looks to be taking a sinister turn, and Peter is in way over his head. He can possibly survive, all he needs now is the luck of the Irish.

If you enjoyed The Great Gatsby or Boardwalk Empire, you'll love The Gem of Ireland's Crown, the latest instalment of Cullen's Celtic Cabaret.

A luxury stay in an Irish castle, a handsome, experienced tour guide, and a secret that has never been revealed.

Life as manager of the magnificent resort of Castle Dysert on Ireland's wild Atlantic coast is never dull, and Conor O'Shea's life to date has taught him to be prepared for the unexpected.

Even he however, is not ready for the gang from Bubbles O'Leary's bar in New York. A motley crew, from spinster sisters of a certain age, to exhausted social workers, they are all in Ireland for one reason.

The fact that this bunch of unusual people arrive during Ireland's biggest matchmaking festival just adds to the intrigue. But is everyone who they say they are? Are all their motives pure?

Conor is ready to do his best to show the visitors his beloved Ireland, but his personal life takes a devastating turn and he finds himself torn, unsure how to proceed. Is the past best left there, or is there redemption to be found in opening old wounds?

“…a women’s fiction novel of epic proportions…undoubtedly one of the best novels I have read this year.” —Heather Osborne for Readers' Favorite

As a girl on the brink of womanhood in 1960s India, Shanti Bamzai has big dreams. Rather than enter into an arranged marriage like her sister, Shanti embarks on a journey into the unknown, leaving her family home behind for an education and a chance to chart her own destiny. While India experiences an upheaval of cultural and societal changes as old-world traditions collide with the modern global era, Shanti navigates college, a marriage of her own choosing, and motherhood, fighting a constant battle between the pressures of traditional expectations and her own burning desire to be an artist and an independent woman. A move to America presents exciting new opportunities, but Shanti is disappointed to find herself still hemmed in by the restrictions of her Indian upbringing. As her children become adults and her marriage becomes a shell of what it once was, Shanti must find the courage to step out of her husband's shadow and into the life she's always dreamed of.

More Reviews & Awards:

2017 Indie Excellence Books Award Multicultural Finalist

2017 Winner Next Generation Indie Book Award Multicultural Finalist

2017 Readers’ Favorite Award, 5 Stars

"The novel is rich in content and the writing is exceptional…An excellent book, providing a rich and authentic look into Indian society and culture., and I highly recommend it." —Gisela Dixon for Readers' Favorite

“In her debut novel, The Immigrant Wife, Madhu B. Wangu brings to life a mysterious time and place. Wangu creates rich, dynamic images of India, comparable to her watercolors, evoking every sense. The indigenous sights, sounds, and smells are so vivid that I swear I could find my way to Shanti’s home. Wangu’s style is gentle and quiet like the protagonist, and deeply powerful. This tale of love and nurturing, loss and growth, and transformation will stay with readers long after they finish the novel.” —Kathleen Shoop, award-winning author of The Last Letter and After the Fog

 “This book is an experience worth treasuring. Readers who are fascinated by Indian culture, or who wish to challenge the biased traditions of a society, would enjoy Madhu’s work.” —Ankita Shukla for Readers’ Favorite

Author Bio:
Founder of the Mindful Writes Groups and Retreats, Madhu Bazaz Wangu is an author and meditation instructor. Her CDs, Meditations for Mindful Writers I & II guide and inspire writers of all levels to tap  into their creative flow and delve deeper into their writing. Her essays on Hindu and Buddhist art have appeared in anthologies in India and the United States.

"You must come at once if you want to stop the suttee from happening again..." This phone message summons Kumud Kuthiyala back to Neela Nagar, the blue town of her youth, and the shackled life she thought she had left behind forever... As a nine-year-old, Kumud witnessed the brutal and horrifying suttee ritual when her beloved aunt immolated herself on the burning pyre of her dead husband. Years later, Kumud summoned the courage to escape the isolated and primitive town of her youth to start a new life in Ambayu, a metropolitan city. She began as office help at Save Girls Soul Orphanage Center and progressed to become its director. At SGSO Center, she becomes a warrior for women's education and equal rights. She teaches young women to protect themselves from outmoded practices and rituals that victimize women. Then a phone call informs Kumud that the suttee of a sixteen-year-old is inevitable. She has vowed that she will never let it happen again. Still haunted by her aunt's suttee, she leaves everything behind, including her love, Shekhar Roy, to end the barbaric custom that scarred her for life, and to save the young bride from committing suttee. As Kumud travels back to the town of her youth, long-buried memories resurface and force her to remember the life from which she fled. The town that greets her is full of contradictions. It has electricity and clean water, and a new school is open to low castes, yet superstition and prejudice abound. How can she convince the town that their centuries-old tradition is cruel and barbaric, that a widowed young woman deserves the right to live? Can she change the minds of the townspeople and the Five Elders before it's too late?

In this story collection, we meet ordinary people who grapple with extraordinary challenges-a precarious balance between the love of life, the inevitability of death and the connection between humans and nature. Some tales hover between reality and fantasy, while others make a comment about customs and tradition, social prejudice, altruism and kindness, ambitions and failures, and failures resulting in transformation. The stories come alive with characters of Indian descent, their American friends, and people living all around the globe.

As long as Carmel stays in London, nothing can happen to shatter her perfect life. But something is pulling her home. Should she resist?

She has a wonderful marriage, a rewarding career and a great bunch of friends. As far as she's concerned, the sadness of her past can stay back in Ireland, where it belongs.

For Carmel, Ireland only means misery, loneliness and fear and she never wants to return. The new, confident and happy version of her only exists on the cosmopolitan streets of Britain's capital. If she ever was forced to return, she fears she would revert to the mousey downtrodden woman she once was.

But when her beloved father suggests a family road trip along Ireland's famous Wild Atlantic Way, she hasn't the heart to turn him down. She tells herself that Sharif will be by her side, and that maybe her father is right and Ireland isn't the terrible place she's made it out to be. But trouble is brewing once more for Carmel and everything she struggled to build looks like it is disintegrating.

As Carmel returns to the land of her birth, she discovers that she cannot fully embrace her future, until she makes peace with her past, and with her country.

A heartwarming story of families, love and loyalty, set against the backdrop of Ireland.

What Will Be, is the final book in the Carmel Sheehan Story.

Massachusetts, 1861. The American Civil War has been raging for almost a year when Emmett joins the 28th Massachusetts Infantry with the promise of serving his country under the green flag of the Irish Brigade. But soon he finds himself struggling to reconcile the piles of dead Irishmen with his own motivations for fighting.

In Lowell, Rosaleen seizes the opportunity to write for a newspaper funded by Boston's business elite. She needs to convince the Irish of Massachusetts that emancipating the slaves is inevitable and just. When letters from Emmett stop coming, Rosaleen cuts a deal with a powerful businessman that will take her deep into the underbelly of wartime economics in New Orleans.

Told from dual perspectives, the third book in The Paddy Series is the story of a family forced to choose between what they thought was right and what they know is irreplaceable.