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Queenstown #1
Last Port of Call
Queenstown, County Cork, Ireland
April 1912
Twelve-year-old Harp Delaney is an unusual child, quiet and intelligent far beyond her years. She would rather spend her days in the library of the grand Georgian house that she sees as her home than playing on the streets with other children.
Her mother, Rose, is the reserved and ladylike housekeeper at the Cliff House. The local women envy her grace and poise while the men admire her beauty. She behaves not as a servant should, but as someone who belongs at the ancestral home of eccentric loner Henry Devereaux.
Nobody ever visits the Cliff House, but Harp, Rose and Henry have a happy life together, each accepting the idiosyncrasies of the others.
The day Titanic sails from Queenstown, taking with it the hopes and dreams of so many, Harp’s life too is devastated. The small port town is shaken to its foundations at the loss of the unsinkable ship, but the revelation of a long-held secret means that Harp and Rose have a much more pressing issue to solve, one that could destroy them if they cannot find a solution.
Unexpectedly, fate takes a hand, and mother and daughter find themselves thrown a lifeline, one that inextricably links them to the stories of men, women and children for whom Queenstown was the last-ever sight of Ireland as they sailed away to new lands and new lives.
Last Port of Call is the first book in The Queenstown Series.
April 1912
Twelve-year-old Harp Delaney is an unusual child, quiet and intelligent far beyond her years. She would rather spend her days in the library of the grand Georgian house that she sees as her home than playing on the streets with other children.
Her mother, Rose, is the reserved and ladylike housekeeper at the Cliff House. The local women envy her grace and poise while the men admire her beauty. She behaves not as a servant should, but as someone who belongs at the ancestral home of eccentric loner Henry Devereaux.
Nobody ever visits the Cliff House, but Harp, Rose and Henry have a happy life together, each accepting the idiosyncrasies of the others.
The day Titanic sails from Queenstown, taking with it the hopes and dreams of so many, Harp’s life too is devastated. The small port town is shaken to its foundations at the loss of the unsinkable ship, but the revelation of a long-held secret means that Harp and Rose have a much more pressing issue to solve, one that could destroy them if they cannot find a solution.
Unexpectedly, fate takes a hand, and mother and daughter find themselves thrown a lifeline, one that inextricably links them to the stories of men, women and children for whom Queenstown was the last-ever sight of Ireland as they sailed away to new lands and new lives.
Last Port of Call is the first book in The Queenstown Series.
1 pages, Audio CD
First published February 18, 2021
5521 people are currently reading
4202 people want to read
About the author
Jean Grainger
73books1,452followersJean Grainger was born in Cork, Ireland. She has been a tour guide of her beloved home country, a teacher, a university lecturer and a playwright. She began writing fiction at the suggestion of her clients on tours, many of whom were sure all the stories she told them would make for a great book. Her first book, The Tour, has become a Number 1 bestseller on Amazon. It tells the story of a disparate group of American visitors to Ireland, who, along with their Irish tour guide have a life changing experience in the magical Emerald Isle.
Her second book, So Much Owed, is a family saga set during the Second World War. The story centres on the Buckley family of West Cork and how their lives are pulled in different directions as they become embroiled in the war. It is a sweeping family saga of intrigue and romance against the background of occupied Europe.
In her third novel, Shadow of a Century, she tells a tale of a battered old flag found in New York in 2016, a century after it was used during the Easter Rising, when Ireland made her final bid for freedom from Great Britain. This tells the story of a journalist who uncovers a story, one with much more to it than a flag.
Her fourth novel, due out in Spring 2016, Under Heaven’s Shining Stars, is set in the 1970s in Cork, Ireland and is a novel about friendship. Three boys, Liam, Patrick and Hugo, though from very different backgrounds are united in a deep but often times challenging friendship. As their lives progress, only by staying strong, can they prevail. Or fail.
Her novella, Letters of Freedom, tells the story of Carmel, stuck in a pointless marriage, when a figure from her past emerges and changes everything with a ‘like� on Facebook. This quick read will touch your heart.
She lives in Cork with her husband and her two youngest children. The older two come home occasionally with laundry and to raid the fridge.
Her second book, So Much Owed, is a family saga set during the Second World War. The story centres on the Buckley family of West Cork and how their lives are pulled in different directions as they become embroiled in the war. It is a sweeping family saga of intrigue and romance against the background of occupied Europe.
In her third novel, Shadow of a Century, she tells a tale of a battered old flag found in New York in 2016, a century after it was used during the Easter Rising, when Ireland made her final bid for freedom from Great Britain. This tells the story of a journalist who uncovers a story, one with much more to it than a flag.
Her fourth novel, due out in Spring 2016, Under Heaven’s Shining Stars, is set in the 1970s in Cork, Ireland and is a novel about friendship. Three boys, Liam, Patrick and Hugo, though from very different backgrounds are united in a deep but often times challenging friendship. As their lives progress, only by staying strong, can they prevail. Or fail.
Her novella, Letters of Freedom, tells the story of Carmel, stuck in a pointless marriage, when a figure from her past emerges and changes everything with a ‘like� on Facebook. This quick read will touch your heart.
She lives in Cork with her husband and her two youngest children. The older two come home occasionally with laundry and to raid the fridge.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 378 reviews
April 12, 2021
I have been a Jean Grainger fan from the first book of hers that I read. Now 22 books later my admiration for her work is boundless. I am astounded by the talent which she has and her willingness to share it with us. With each selection I read I become more fully convinced that visiting Ireland belongs at the top of my bucket list. With the beginning of this new series we meet a new cast of characters with whom I fell in love almost from the outset. One of my pet peeves when reading is when you can tell, just by the way the story is laid out that there will be another volume to come. With this series, although she has made it known before you even open the book, never did I feel that this was the intent of how she developed the story. Had I not known beforehand, I wouldn't have known until I was literally on the last page, that there is more yet to come. I eagerly look forward to the continuation of the story of Rose and Harp Delaney. Now, if anyone in the movie or television industry is reading this, please consider filming some, if not all, of Grainger's books for others to enjoy.
February 22, 2021
I have read all of Jean Grainger’s books and have enjoyed all of them. I found Jean after a trip to Ireland. I have learned so much more about the country, the history, the people, and daily life across Ireland from her books. Whenever I read books set in other countries, I am reminded that at the core we are more alike than different. While I loved the second half of the book, the first half was harder for me to get into. The story of how Rose and Harp came to the Devereaux house, and how they turned it into an inn had more repetition than needed. I’m glad I stuck it out, though, because the second half drew me in with the descriptions and stories of the travelers who stayed at their inn while waiting to sail to a new life in America. I am already looking forward to the next book in the series.
I received this book as an ARC, but the review is my own.
I received this book as an ARC, but the review is my own.
February 22, 2021
I really liked this book! The beginning of a series, so there's a lot to look forward to :)
November 29, 2022
This novel opens with the Titanic leaving for its transatlantic crossing, filled with hopeful excited passengers. The port town depends on these large liners for their income. Up above the town in a large dilapidated house, a widow and her young daughter try to survive by operating a small hotel. Their first customers are a disparate group with widely differing backgrounds. The story makes for an interesting read.
Shawn Callon author of The Simon Montfort Spy Series wrote this review
Shawn Callon author of The Simon Montfort Spy Series wrote this review
December 28, 2021
Many, many typos. Took place in 1912 Ireland but you wouldn’t know that bc there is very little historical context. This is the first book in a series and the sole purpose of this book was to establish the characters for the next book. Nothing happened in this book. So. Boring. The character development is horrible. I’m not the least bit interested in reading the next book. I skimmed the second half of the book.
February 13, 2022
The first part of the book was a good build up and I was interested in the main chapters enough to continue reading despite being unsure about the language quality. Even with the new characters introduced rather awkwardly in the middle - it was still good, they actually made me curious. And then it started to fall apart. The language became too simply, despite good dramatic build up for all of the characters� stories, the narrative became too ‘cute� and flat for a rather serious subject. Only some small aspects allowed to consider that you are reading about Ireland in 1912 with all its turmoil and uncertainties and that was one of the biggest disappointments.
November 29, 2022
Interesting story with the backdrop of the Titanic's infamous voyage. The story is intriguing. The characters are well developed and real. I found it easy to relate to many of the characters.
I was not a fan of the ending. I know this is the first book in a series, but I don't feel compelled to read further, except that Harp and Rose's story did not end. The author ended on a cliffhanger but not one that demands I continue.
The story was easy to read. It felt like a YA novel but I don't believe it is marketed as such. I enjoyed it but I will likely not read the rest of the series.
I was not a fan of the ending. I know this is the first book in a series, but I don't feel compelled to read further, except that Harp and Rose's story did not end. The author ended on a cliffhanger but not one that demands I continue.
The story was easy to read. It felt like a YA novel but I don't believe it is marketed as such. I enjoyed it but I will likely not read the rest of the series.
December 30, 2022
Interesting premise.
The whole time I was reading this, I felt that it must be a book for a young person. The text was simple, the people all one dimensional.
The young heroine wiser than any of the adults she encountered with the exception of the former owner of the house, goes about delivering her solutions or advice to all her guests. Everyone's dilemmas get solved except her own.
It was clearly a setup for a series, which I am not compelled to read.
The whole time I was reading this, I felt that it must be a book for a young person. The text was simple, the people all one dimensional.
The young heroine wiser than any of the adults she encountered with the exception of the former owner of the house, goes about delivering her solutions or advice to all her guests. Everyone's dilemmas get solved except her own.
It was clearly a setup for a series, which I am not compelled to read.
April 23, 2022
4.5 stars rounded to 5 stars. I really enjoyed this book set in Ireland in the early 1900's. The story revolves around a 12 year old girl named Harp. At the beginning of the novel, she and her mother live with Henry Devereaux in an old mansion and her mother works as housekeeper---the only servant at this time. Harp is very different from other children her age. She has no interest in the usual childhood pastimes but loves to read and learn. She is 'old' for her age in both her maturity and intelligence. At the beginning of the novel, she believes her father died because that is what her mother told her. She has no friends and is bullied at school.
The only other person of importance in her life is Henry Devereaux, the elderly man who owns and lives at the mansion. He is also a loner and he and Harp have formed a close friendship. Henry has not left the house in years but he also loves to learn and has a huge library of books which Harp is invited to use. Henry has no one else who he is close to beside Harp. Then one day Henry informs Harp that she is a Devereaux---not Harp Delaney as she had grown up believing. Unfortunately, that same day Henry dies of a heart attack. The Titanic ship also sinks that same day---an event of special interest since the town in Ireland where Harp and her mother Rose live is where the Titanic departed from before sinking.
At first it looks like Harp and Rose will end up losing everything---the home they have lived in and Rose's only source of income. However, then they find out that Henry had legally declared Harp to be his daughter (which she is not) and has left the mansion to her. Harp and Rose decided to turn the mansion into a guest house in order to have enough money to maintain it.
Then the novel goes on to tell the stories of the first people who come to stay at the guest house before embarking on a ship to America. Harp forms a special friendship with one of the guests---JoeJohn, a boy about 2 years older than her. I won't go any further to avoid spoiling the story for others.
Grainger has a real gift for developing the characters of the story and I especially enjoyed the character of Harp. I am really looking forward to reading the next novel in the series.
The only other person of importance in her life is Henry Devereaux, the elderly man who owns and lives at the mansion. He is also a loner and he and Harp have formed a close friendship. Henry has not left the house in years but he also loves to learn and has a huge library of books which Harp is invited to use. Henry has no one else who he is close to beside Harp. Then one day Henry informs Harp that she is a Devereaux---not Harp Delaney as she had grown up believing. Unfortunately, that same day Henry dies of a heart attack. The Titanic ship also sinks that same day---an event of special interest since the town in Ireland where Harp and her mother Rose live is where the Titanic departed from before sinking.
At first it looks like Harp and Rose will end up losing everything---the home they have lived in and Rose's only source of income. However, then they find out that Henry had legally declared Harp to be his daughter (which she is not) and has left the mansion to her. Harp and Rose decided to turn the mansion into a guest house in order to have enough money to maintain it.
Then the novel goes on to tell the stories of the first people who come to stay at the guest house before embarking on a ship to America. Harp forms a special friendship with one of the guests---JoeJohn, a boy about 2 years older than her. I won't go any further to avoid spoiling the story for others.
Grainger has a real gift for developing the characters of the story and I especially enjoyed the character of Harp. I am really looking forward to reading the next novel in the series.
June 12, 2021
I do love all of Ms. Grainger's stories. She is such a wonder weaver of stories and magic and I always feel like I am leaving a dear friend's house after a heartwarming visit when I finish one of her tales. The new series set in Queenstown, Ireland, is no exception. Although the first part of the book starts out a little slow, the tale picks up momentum when the lodgers of the first night at the guest house are introduced and their varied stories unfold. Like The Tour series of books, this book brings together a set of different people with very disparate backgrounds and joins them together in the end as fast friends. Each character has things in their life that need to be sorted out and by the end of the story they seem to find their way in the world. It leaves the reader feeling warm and it provokes some good thoughts and feelings in the end. Her books leave you thinking about them for day later. I especially love the unusual 12 year-old girl Harp and the strong relationship she has with her mother. Two against the world at times but their lives take them to some unexpected places in the book. And a truly dark character looms in the background that is sure to surface in the second book. I can't wait!
February 22, 2021
As usual Jean Grainger writes a wonderful story. Rose and her daughter Harp are new characters and their life saga is going to be superb. So far we have met so many lovely and interesting people who are sailing to America to start a new life. These passengers check into Rose’s hotel for a night or two until their ship sets sail from Queenstown. We get to know these guests and I hope we will hear about them in future books in this series. Rose has had a hard start in life but her daughter Harp is a joy and blessing. Unfortunately towards the end of the book the horrible, heartless Ralph turns up and I know in book two he is going to cause Rose and Harp many problems and worries. I can hardly wait for Jean Grainger to write the next book as I am desperate to find out what happens to them and also meet their new guests. I highly recommend this book and couldn’t put it down
February 23, 2021
I was so excited to read Jean Grainger's newest Irish Adventure! The story takes place in Queenstown around the time when the Titanic sailed. Grainger does a marvelous job telling an engaging story about a unusual young girl, her hard working mother and their life together. The characters are complex and lovable inviting the reader into their lives. Soon enough a tragedy occurs revealing the beginnings of a mystery. Along the way, we meet several interesting characters whose stories weave together creating a fascinating tale. The plot twists keep readers guessing and turning pages to see how it all turns out. The ending is both satisfying and intriguing because it hints at things to come in the next book. Lovers of Irish stories and historical fiction will be delighted with Grainger's latest book.
February 22, 2021
Last Port of Call. Author Jean Grainger describes this book as a story about a mother and daughter, but it is so much more. Taking place in 1912, the story highlights class differences, religious differences, expectations and individual dreams of the characters. The prose is beautifully descriptive, drawing the reader inside the story and the mindsets of a diverse set of supporting characters that have gathered in a B&B for one last night before boarding a ship to America. This reader is excited that this is the first book of a planned trilogy. I voluntarily reviewed an advance copy of this book. Most highly recommend.
February 21, 2021
This is a truly wonderful, heartwarming book set in Queenstown, Ireland, and centered around a mother, Rose, and daughter Harp. At the outset of the book, Rose works as housekeeper for Mr. Henry Devereux, a dear, reclusive booklover who suffers fragile health. Mr. Devereux and Harp have a special friendship and are much alike in character. After Mr. Devereux sadly passes and Harp unexpectedly inherits the Cliff House, which is sadly in need of repairs, Rose and Harp labor hard to support themselves and open a guesthouse for those embarking from Queenstown.
I received an advance copy from the author, whose books I always enjoy, and can’t wait for the next book in this series.
I received an advance copy from the author, whose books I always enjoy, and can’t wait for the next book in this series.
February 22, 2021
Great start to a new series!
I was drawn into the story from the first page. The characters, scenery and atmosphere come alive. Queenstown in Co Cork was the last place in Ireland to be seen by many emigrants each of whom had their own heartfelt stories to tell. Skilfully woven together through a young girl and her mother whose lives and livelihoods are put in jeopardy by unexpected circumstances, we learn about lives, loves, joy and sadness in Ireland before WW1. This author never fails to deliver and delight.
I was drawn into the story from the first page. The characters, scenery and atmosphere come alive. Queenstown in Co Cork was the last place in Ireland to be seen by many emigrants each of whom had their own heartfelt stories to tell. Skilfully woven together through a young girl and her mother whose lives and livelihoods are put in jeopardy by unexpected circumstances, we learn about lives, loves, joy and sadness in Ireland before WW1. This author never fails to deliver and delight.
February 22, 2021
Every time I read and review one of Ms. Grainger"s books I find myself including a sentence about the feeling of coming home. This story is no exception. My father was born in Ireland in 1906 and traveled to America when he was 12 years old. This author told me through her words and excellent research what my father"s life may have been like early in his life. Thank you, Ms. Grainger!
July 26, 2022
3-1/2 stars
Set in Ireland. A pretty decent tale overall. Several interesting characters, good storyline with a satisfying ending.
I erroneously selected the Kindle edition, but this was an audiobook for me, and I thought the narrator did a great job with the different voices.
Set in Ireland. A pretty decent tale overall. Several interesting characters, good storyline with a satisfying ending.
I erroneously selected the Kindle edition, but this was an audiobook for me, and I thought the narrator did a great job with the different voices.
February 15, 2021
Jean Grainger has a decidedly good method of bringing us historical information in a much more acceptable form than those dusty old textbooks i was forced to read in school. She fascinates me with her attention to detail and interesting facts.
She weaves details of the launch of the Titanic into this small town's history to pique our interest in oceanliner travel. She creates distinct individual characters with avocations one doesn't see in a typical novel these days.
She uses the old mansion on the hill to show us how people lived a century or more ago. And she uses loving characters to show us a better way to live. Some of the shader characters don't make it all the way through the book. Other left me wondering if they were early mobsters. Guess I'll never know.
I do recommend that you check out this book.
She weaves details of the launch of the Titanic into this small town's history to pique our interest in oceanliner travel. She creates distinct individual characters with avocations one doesn't see in a typical novel these days.
She uses the old mansion on the hill to show us how people lived a century or more ago. And she uses loving characters to show us a better way to live. Some of the shader characters don't make it all the way through the book. Other left me wondering if they were early mobsters. Guess I'll never know.
I do recommend that you check out this book.
February 22, 2021
This is a perfectly delightful book with endearing characters and an intriguing, original plot. I couldn't put it down and can't wait for the sequel! Jean Grainger keeps getting better and better!
April 30, 2022
Rich Characters & Drama
Love these Irish historical novels with wonderful drama & more characters added to the mix. Twists & turns keep the interest from one chapter to the next.
Love these Irish historical novels with wonderful drama & more characters added to the mix. Twists & turns keep the interest from one chapter to the next.
February 15, 2022
A beautiful and heartwarming story. Looking forward to reading the rest in this series.
June 17, 2023
Having recently visited Cobh, which was the former harborfront town of Queenstown, I thought this book might be worth a read - especially because of all the high ratings. Overall it wasn't bad, per se, but it also wasn't great.
I thought the story started out pretty well, with interesting characters and a bit of intrigue. But then in the middle, more characters were introduced which weren't as well-developed and it made me wonder if this series was just going to be a revolving door of guests at the Inn, which could be appealing depending on how the story was told. That was when the writing fell apart for me. The dialogue became really elementary, and Harp's unusual wisdom and zen-like ability to solve challenging life-problems for strangers became a bit eye-rolling. The cliff-hanger was definitely predictable, and ended the story abruptly.
It should be noted that although the blurb makes it sound like this novel has something to do with the Titanic, the only connection is that it begins the day the Titanic set sail from Queenstown. Nothing else. And, I really had hoped there would be more mention of the town itself and its features, but as of the end of this novel, that aspect was a bit slim.
Despite the way the story ended, I'm actually not sure if I'm interested enough to continue the series. Maybe someday, if I've got nothing else to read.
I thought the story started out pretty well, with interesting characters and a bit of intrigue. But then in the middle, more characters were introduced which weren't as well-developed and it made me wonder if this series was just going to be a revolving door of guests at the Inn, which could be appealing depending on how the story was told. That was when the writing fell apart for me. The dialogue became really elementary, and Harp's unusual wisdom and zen-like ability to solve challenging life-problems for strangers became a bit eye-rolling. The cliff-hanger was definitely predictable, and ended the story abruptly.
It should be noted that although the blurb makes it sound like this novel has something to do with the Titanic, the only connection is that it begins the day the Titanic set sail from Queenstown. Nothing else. And, I really had hoped there would be more mention of the town itself and its features, but as of the end of this novel, that aspect was a bit slim.
Despite the way the story ended, I'm actually not sure if I'm interested enough to continue the series. Maybe someday, if I've got nothing else to read.
February 28, 2021
I have read all of Jean Grainger's books. The Last Port of Call is the greatest in my opinion for so many reasons. The setting is very familiar to me having visited Queenstown, the Catholic Church on the hill and my knowledge about the departure point of so many Irish men and women.
The mother and daughter protagonists are brilliantly written. I loved the story from beginning to end. It brings a new dimension to Grainger's series of wonderful books with the development of new characters who face a myriad of challenges on both a survival and personal level. Rose and Harp are brought to light with detail and ingenious style. You will admire them immediately!
All of the characters are flushed out leaving the reader satisfied. What a wonderful story and bravo to Jean Grainger for her tribute to women and courage. I couldn't put this novel down and I look forward to #2 in this series.
The mother and daughter protagonists are brilliantly written. I loved the story from beginning to end. It brings a new dimension to Grainger's series of wonderful books with the development of new characters who face a myriad of challenges on both a survival and personal level. Rose and Harp are brought to light with detail and ingenious style. You will admire them immediately!
All of the characters are flushed out leaving the reader satisfied. What a wonderful story and bravo to Jean Grainger for her tribute to women and courage. I couldn't put this novel down and I look forward to #2 in this series.
March 11, 2021
Proofreading!
This has a delightful story line and interesting characters. Mr. Devereaux was a fascinating character. However, the book was so poorly proofed the missing words, misspelled words, and incomplete sentences were a constant distraction to me. Some of the sentences I had to reword to make sense. It read in some spots like a first draft. Clean it up and it's a charming book.
This has a delightful story line and interesting characters. Mr. Devereaux was a fascinating character. However, the book was so poorly proofed the missing words, misspelled words, and incomplete sentences were a constant distraction to me. Some of the sentences I had to reword to make sense. It read in some spots like a first draft. Clean it up and it's a charming book.
March 3, 2021
Written in the life-affirming style of the author, Last Port of Call was hard to put down and I deeply enjoyed it. It felt less substantial to some extent than other books from the author that I've read recently, but the ending definitely promises much for the next volume which I plan to get and read asap.
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March 7, 2021Last Port of Call is by Jean Grainger. This is the first in a new series by Grainger and if it is any indication, the series will be great. It took me just a few pages to get into it simply because I was expecting a continuation of one of the series she has already written, although from the information I had, I knew it wasn’t. It didn’t take long to get me totally involved and I read the book in a single sitting because I couldn’t put it down. I can hardly wait until the next book in the series.
This book takes place in Queensland, Ireland. This is where the Titanic made her last landfall before heading to sea and a date with her disaster. Of course, not knowing of her destiny, the people of Ireland had gathered to see her off and to be able to say they had seen the unsinkable ship. Others were gathered to take their places aboard the ship and sail to New York and their destinies to make their way in the new world. The book centers around the boarding house run by Harp Delaney Deveraux and her Mother. Harp had grown up in the Cliff House because her Mother was the housekeeper. Harp had the run of the house because Mr. Henry Deveraux allowed it. The two had a special relationship and would spend hours in his study reading. Her Mother had been working in the house since she was a child so knew Mr. Henry and his younger brother Ralph since they were children. Upon his death, they learned that Henry had claimed Harp as his daughter and left Cliff House to her. She and her Mother turned it into a boarding house that fit in the space between the very expensive hotel in town and the very inexpensive place on the other side of town. Their hotel was modest and just right for middle class Irishmen.
The story revolves around their first guests and their stories of why they are here to meet the Titanic. Their individual stories are a cross sampling of the types of people who really sailed on the ship and other ships that left Ireland for the United States. Future boarders will take future ships
The stories are cute and adventurous and keep you on your toes as you read them. The boarding house reminds me of the B&B’s I stayed in when I was in Ireland. They were quaint, the owners were very professional and yet very friendly, and the guests were more like friends than strangers.
This book takes place in Queensland, Ireland. This is where the Titanic made her last landfall before heading to sea and a date with her disaster. Of course, not knowing of her destiny, the people of Ireland had gathered to see her off and to be able to say they had seen the unsinkable ship. Others were gathered to take their places aboard the ship and sail to New York and their destinies to make their way in the new world. The book centers around the boarding house run by Harp Delaney Deveraux and her Mother. Harp had grown up in the Cliff House because her Mother was the housekeeper. Harp had the run of the house because Mr. Henry Deveraux allowed it. The two had a special relationship and would spend hours in his study reading. Her Mother had been working in the house since she was a child so knew Mr. Henry and his younger brother Ralph since they were children. Upon his death, they learned that Henry had claimed Harp as his daughter and left Cliff House to her. She and her Mother turned it into a boarding house that fit in the space between the very expensive hotel in town and the very inexpensive place on the other side of town. Their hotel was modest and just right for middle class Irishmen.
The story revolves around their first guests and their stories of why they are here to meet the Titanic. Their individual stories are a cross sampling of the types of people who really sailed on the ship and other ships that left Ireland for the United States. Future boarders will take future ships
The stories are cute and adventurous and keep you on your toes as you read them. The boarding house reminds me of the B&B’s I stayed in when I was in Ireland. They were quaint, the owners were very professional and yet very friendly, and the guests were more like friends than strangers.
May 5, 2025
В началото на Май обърнах внимание на една книга, която доста време чакаше реда си. Сред свежите нюанси на зеленото навсякъде около мен може би беше точния момент за нея. Заведе ме на пристанището, от което потегля злощастния кораб " Титаник " - Куинстаун, графство Корк, Ирландия през април 1912 г. Коув или Куинстаун, както някога е наричан, се е смятал за най-тъжният град в Ирландия, поради връзката му с ирландската имиграция. А историята , която Jean Grainger разказва в първата си книга от поредицата Queenstown е пропита със съдбите на хора от различни прослойки на обществото. Английската корона е владяла Ирландия така , както и всяка друга колония - извличайки максимална полза от земя, население и природни дадености. Борбите на ирландците за независимост никога не са отслабвали, но мнозина са намирали за единствена възможност да оцелеят, напускайки любимия си остров, дома си и семейството. И всички, качващи се на борда на кораби за Америка , са виждали за последно пристанището на Куинстаун с кацналата на хълм, известна катедрала Сейнт Колман . Това кътче от Ирландия е изпратило в емиграция по света почти 3 милиона ирландци.
Last Port of Call носи стила и атмосферата на класиките на Дикенс и Остин. Тъгата се носи като мъгла от морето, на Jean Grainger успява да внесе и много други емоции. Малката Харп с цялата си страст към книгите, с интелигентността и сдържаноста си е истинският образ на една стара душа в младо тяло. И дори неочакваните загуби и трудни решения идват с някакво решение, което е отворен прозорец , когато съдбата затваря една врата . Наистина е вярно, че понякога страха ни от неизвестното пред нас е по - голям от реалността, когато тя настъпи. Има възможности пред всеки човек. Просто трябва да се познава добре. Да знае , че " трябва да се насилваш, да се караш да правиш неща, които са плашещи. Единственият начин да създадеш нещо оригинално е да не се страхуваш да грешиш. "
* " Well, it’s either let them down or let yourself down. "
* " You can’t protect or control children forever. There comes a time when parents have to realise they created this person but the child has his or her own life path to pursue, and trying to stop them, even if it is to keep them safe, is a waste of time.�
Last Port of Call носи стила и атмосферата на класиките на Дикенс и Остин. Тъгата се носи като мъгла от морето, на Jean Grainger успява да внесе и много други емоции. Малката Харп с цялата си страст към книгите, с интелигентността и сдържаноста си е истинският образ на една стара душа в младо тяло. И дори неочакваните загуби и трудни решения идват с някакво решение, което е отворен прозорец , когато съдбата затваря една врата . Наистина е вярно, че понякога страха ни от неизвестното пред нас е по - голям от реалността, когато тя настъпи. Има възможности пред всеки човек. Просто трябва да се познава добре. Да знае , че " трябва да се насилваш, да се караш да правиш неща, които са плашещи. Единственият начин да създадеш нещо оригинално е да не се страхуваш да грешиш. "
* " Well, it’s either let them down or let yourself down. "
* " You can’t protect or control children forever. There comes a time when parents have to realise they created this person but the child has his or her own life path to pursue, and trying to stop them, even if it is to keep them safe, is a waste of time.�
January 7, 2023
Oh my, what a wonderful story! I absolutely loved The Last Port of Call! I am so happy to have discovered this author's books. This is only the first one I have read but I am confident the rest of the Queenstown series will be equally promising.
This warm and wonderful tale of a mother, daughter journey made my heart sing. Their closeness is so refreshing and how they stick together through the challenges they face. Rose is an amazing woman who has endured some terrible hardships but her resilience and determination help her rise above her trials. Her love for her daughter, Harp, is really the fire that spurs her on. And Harp is an exceptional child who is smart, talented musically and a lover of great literature. She is a delightful character for so many reasons.
I recently did some research on Queenstown/Cobh and Jean really whisked me away to that mesmerising location with her beautiful descriptions making me feel I was really there in the early 1900s. This famous town seaport in Ireland is well known for its incredible history and Jean has utilised it wonderfully (even Titanic's connection) and therefore the story's fabric is spun from a rich tapestry.
The plot is absolutely fascinating and kept me pinned to the pages. It has a great ending, too, that made me ready for the next book. The writing style has a smooth continuous flow that is dotted with lively characters and events that carried me on its tide of surprises. I look forward to continuing my reading journey of the rest of the series and can see why this author's work is so popular. Everything about Last Port of Call was authentic and heart stirring. I was charmed and captivated by this exceptional Irish family story. I highly recommend it and give it a triumphant 5 Star rating! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This warm and wonderful tale of a mother, daughter journey made my heart sing. Their closeness is so refreshing and how they stick together through the challenges they face. Rose is an amazing woman who has endured some terrible hardships but her resilience and determination help her rise above her trials. Her love for her daughter, Harp, is really the fire that spurs her on. And Harp is an exceptional child who is smart, talented musically and a lover of great literature. She is a delightful character for so many reasons.
I recently did some research on Queenstown/Cobh and Jean really whisked me away to that mesmerising location with her beautiful descriptions making me feel I was really there in the early 1900s. This famous town seaport in Ireland is well known for its incredible history and Jean has utilised it wonderfully (even Titanic's connection) and therefore the story's fabric is spun from a rich tapestry.
The plot is absolutely fascinating and kept me pinned to the pages. It has a great ending, too, that made me ready for the next book. The writing style has a smooth continuous flow that is dotted with lively characters and events that carried me on its tide of surprises. I look forward to continuing my reading journey of the rest of the series and can see why this author's work is so popular. Everything about Last Port of Call was authentic and heart stirring. I was charmed and captivated by this exceptional Irish family story. I highly recommend it and give it a triumphant 5 Star rating! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
August 15, 2022
This is the first book of the Queenstown series. The setting is Ireland in the early 1900's where ships set said for America.
Queenstown, County Cork, Ireland.
April 1912
"Twelve-year-old Harp Delaney is an unusual child, quiet and intelligent far beyond her years. She would rather spend her days in the library of the grand Georgian house that she sees as her home than playing on the streets with other children. Her mother, Rose, is the reserved and ladylike housekeeper at the Cliff House. The local women envy her grace and poise while the men admire her beauty. She behaves not as a servant should, but as someone who belongs at the ancestral home of eccentric loner Henry Devereaux. Nobody ever visits the Cliff House, but Harp, Rose and Henry have a happy life together, each accepting the idiosyncrasies of the others. The day Titanic sails from Queenstown, taking with it the hopes and dreams of so many, Harp’s life too is devastated. The small port town is shaken to its foundations at the loss of the unsinkable ship, but the revelation of a long-held secret means that Harp and Rose have a much more pressing issue to solve, one that could destroy them if they cannot find a solution. Unexpectedly, fate takes a hand, and mother and daughter find themselves thrown a lifeline, one that inextricably links them to the stories of men, women and children for whom Queenstown was the last-ever sight of Ireland as they sailed away to new lands and new lives. Last Port of Call is the first book in The Queenstown Series." synopsis copied
I am looking forward to starting the next book.
Queenstown, County Cork, Ireland.
April 1912
"Twelve-year-old Harp Delaney is an unusual child, quiet and intelligent far beyond her years. She would rather spend her days in the library of the grand Georgian house that she sees as her home than playing on the streets with other children. Her mother, Rose, is the reserved and ladylike housekeeper at the Cliff House. The local women envy her grace and poise while the men admire her beauty. She behaves not as a servant should, but as someone who belongs at the ancestral home of eccentric loner Henry Devereaux. Nobody ever visits the Cliff House, but Harp, Rose and Henry have a happy life together, each accepting the idiosyncrasies of the others. The day Titanic sails from Queenstown, taking with it the hopes and dreams of so many, Harp’s life too is devastated. The small port town is shaken to its foundations at the loss of the unsinkable ship, but the revelation of a long-held secret means that Harp and Rose have a much more pressing issue to solve, one that could destroy them if they cannot find a solution. Unexpectedly, fate takes a hand, and mother and daughter find themselves thrown a lifeline, one that inextricably links them to the stories of men, women and children for whom Queenstown was the last-ever sight of Ireland as they sailed away to new lands and new lives. Last Port of Call is the first book in The Queenstown Series." synopsis copied
I am looking forward to starting the next book.
February 26, 2021
Starting a new series is kind of like the first day of school...you're excited yet a little nervous. Will I like the people and places I encounter? Will I enjoy the experience? Will I learn something new? With Jean Grainger as the author, the answer is a resounding YES to all questions above! She has started a new series with new characters in a new location, and the book is every bit as much as I hoped it would be and then some
I really enjoyed the three main characters Rose, her daughter Harp, and the mysterious Mr. Devereux. Who is he, and what part does he have in this story? What connection does he have to Rose and Harp? The other characters that appear later in the story, JohnJoe, Danny, Sean, Molly...all of those are great characters as well. The eclectic mix of personalities reminds me somewhat of her book The Tour. One would think that a group of strangers with a variety of personalities coming together in one location would be cause to see some interesting things happen. And you would suppose right. If you've never read a Jean Grainger book before, trust men it is well worth your time!
I really enjoyed the three main characters Rose, her daughter Harp, and the mysterious Mr. Devereux. Who is he, and what part does he have in this story? What connection does he have to Rose and Harp? The other characters that appear later in the story, JohnJoe, Danny, Sean, Molly...all of those are great characters as well. The eclectic mix of personalities reminds me somewhat of her book The Tour. One would think that a group of strangers with a variety of personalities coming together in one location would be cause to see some interesting things happen. And you would suppose right. If you've never read a Jean Grainger book before, trust men it is well worth your time!
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