For somewhere in Dublin, a young man named Seamus Sullivan is also on a search, dreaming of being reunited with his own first love, the only "family" he's ever known. They'd been inseparable growing up together at St. Augustine's Children's Home, until Kathleen Murphy's parents claimed her and she vanished across the sea to America. Now, in a Newport mansion, that very girl, grown to womanhood, works as a maid and waits with a faith that defies all reason for the miracle that will bring back the only boy she's ever loved.
That miracle is at hand, but, like most miracles, it can come only after the darkest of nights and the deepest of heartbreaks. For life can be as precarious as a walk along a cliff, its greatest rewards reached only by those who dare to risk everything for what matters most.
©2007 Luanne Rice; (P)2007 Books on Tape
Addicted to Audible!
"A Pure Love Story"
In the top 20
That's the great thing about What Matters Most, there isn't one that compares.
The sweetness of the characters, and the accents.
True love never dies
"Heartwrenching!"
Having grown up in an institution run by nuns I felt a close kinship with the characters. The deepest love, hate and angst is revealed in each character as they strive to make sense of their lives. The role the Church played in Bernadette's decision to give up her child and become a nun, the decision made by Kathleen to go with her parents and leave James behind and the choice Tom Kelly made to be close to Bernadette without the pleasure of having her marry him made the characters real, vulnerable and heartbreakingly believable. I cried for them and couldn't stop listening to the book.
Great story, great narration.
I love listening to a variety of books while working out and even listen to the ones I like more than once. When I read them I never went back to read again so this is great.
"Loved, Loved, Loved this book."
I wanted more...
Bernadette. I want to be like her.
Easy to listen to.
What matters most, a must read.
Beautiful setting
"My Favorite"
I completely enjoyed listening to this book. Miss Rice is one of my favorite authors. I enjoyed the way it was read. The narrator was able to add an Irish accent when needed. I didn't want the book to end. I especially like how Miss Rice includes characters from other books. One book is not the continuation of another, the connection is subtle but yet there. It makes me feel like I really know the characters. I also like the way she describes the setting. It makes me want to go to Connecticut or Rhode Island and see the area for myself. I look forward to listening to many more of her books.
"Good Read!"
I enjoyed this book thouroughly. The reader was pleasing and the book lent itself well to be read without losing my interest. I would recommend it.
"Very Enjoyable"
I very much enjoyed this book. The writer does a great job keeping you on edge as you listen -- you fall in love with the characters, and you can't wait to get back to the book. The narrator does a great job.
Highly recommend.
"A satisfying conclusion!"
"What Matters Most" is a satisfying conclusion to Sister Bernadette's story. The conflict / angst amongst the three principles in this story, the personal tension between man and woman, and the very personal struggle within Sister Bernadette, makes for a riveting listen. Thoroughly enjoyable!
"Outstanding"
What Matters Most is a wonderful story of family, love, friendship and the importance of taking advantage of every moment in life. The story ebbs and flows, revolving around 2 couples who end up related in a most engaging and provocative manner. A wonderful read and highly recommended.