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Irish Born Trilogy #2
Born in Ice
The second novel in the Irish Born Trilogy from the #1 New York Times bestselling author of Born In Fire .
Brianna Concannon is the kind of innkeeper who doesn’t mind the harsh winters of Ireland—and the empty bed-and-breakfast that comes with them. But this year, a famous American author needs a quiet place to stay while writing his next book.
A charmer whose easy smiles mask a guarded past, Grayson Thane plans to spend the cold winter alone. But his lovely landlady adds a complication he never expected. She’s exactly what he’s looking for in his heroine. And soon Grayson and Brianna will learn that sometimes fate has a plan of its own. Sometimes, fire can be born in ice...
Don't miss the other books in the Irish Born Trilogy
Born in Fire
Born in Shame
Brianna Concannon is the kind of innkeeper who doesn’t mind the harsh winters of Ireland—and the empty bed-and-breakfast that comes with them. But this year, a famous American author needs a quiet place to stay while writing his next book.
A charmer whose easy smiles mask a guarded past, Grayson Thane plans to spend the cold winter alone. But his lovely landlady adds a complication he never expected. She’s exactly what he’s looking for in his heroine. And soon Grayson and Brianna will learn that sometimes fate has a plan of its own. Sometimes, fire can be born in ice...
Don't miss the other books in the Irish Born Trilogy
Born in Fire
Born in Shame
369 pages, Paperback
First published August 1, 1995
About the author
Nora Roberts
1,770 books55k followersNora Roberts is the #1 New York Times bestselling author of more than 200 novels, including Hideaway, Under Currents, Come Sundown, The Awakening, Legacy, and coming in November 2021 -- The Becoming -- the second book in The Dragon Heart Legacy. She is also the author of the futuristic suspense In Death series written under the pen name J.D. Robb. There are more than 500 million copies of her books in print.
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 1,017 reviews
May 16, 2012
Loved it! This is the second in the series, but it could easily be read as a stand alone (enough back story is given.) This is a simple and very romantic story of a young Irish woman, Brianna, who runs her own B&B in a remote area of Ireland. In the dead of winter, she takes on an extended guest -- a famous author, Grayson, who plans to stay a few months and write his next novel. He quickly becomes enchanted by her and involved in the lives of those in the village. It was such a beautiful love story, and I welled up with happy tears towards the end. I can see why this book is considered one of her best, and it is listed as a top 100 on the AAR website (likebooks.com). For those who like their romance with some steam, the sensuality and passion between hero/heroine was paletable. Plenty of beautiful bedroom scenes, not overly graphic but very sensual. Grayson was an amazing hero and Brianna was so likable. I can't find one negative thing to say about this one.
June 9, 2020
ReRead June 2020
November 20, 2017
So I see that many people enjoyed this book even more than Born In Fire, but alpha male Grayson Thane really wasn't my cup of tea. I shall get to that a little later on.
Born in Ice takes readers back to Ireland, this time to tell us Brianna's story. During the Irish winter, Brianna receives news that a mystery writer from America, Grayson Thane will be staying at her inn for a month. This worries sister Maggie, now six months pregnant, that her innocent sister will be in a house alone with a man. Yes, the virginal female protagonist has once again emerged from the ashes of 70's romance. But that is not all the Concannon sisters have to contend with in this story. Brianna stumbles upon letters written to her father that reveal a well kept secret. Both sisters decide they need to know more and ask Rogan to hire a detective. A mini mystery emerges, but this book is about romance so...
Enter American Grayson Thane. An established writer sporting a ponytail( EEK this really was written in the 90's) that begins to lust after his innkeeper after spying her in her flannel nightgown. Sparks fly and there will be a trip to New York City before all is done. But let's get some perspective. If Rogan Sweeney had me rolling my eyes, Grayson made mutter angrily as I was reading. This guy had MAJOR issues relating to his anger and I really didn't like the way he treated Brianna at times. But the girl took it like an insecure gal would and nobody around her seems to take notice of his less than outstanding performance. If I was playing a drinking game, I could have gotten quite wasted on the number of times Grayson says " Sorry" and Brianna is all "It's okay" and" I will just make you a meal, make your bed, iron your clothes..." SERIOUSLY!!!
I am settling on a 3 star because despite the fact that I didn't care for the leading man, this book held my attention and I just couldn't put it down.
Born in Ice takes readers back to Ireland, this time to tell us Brianna's story. During the Irish winter, Brianna receives news that a mystery writer from America, Grayson Thane will be staying at her inn for a month. This worries sister Maggie, now six months pregnant, that her innocent sister will be in a house alone with a man. Yes, the virginal female protagonist has once again emerged from the ashes of 70's romance. But that is not all the Concannon sisters have to contend with in this story. Brianna stumbles upon letters written to her father that reveal a well kept secret. Both sisters decide they need to know more and ask Rogan to hire a detective. A mini mystery emerges, but this book is about romance so...
Enter American Grayson Thane. An established writer sporting a ponytail( EEK this really was written in the 90's) that begins to lust after his innkeeper after spying her in her flannel nightgown. Sparks fly and there will be a trip to New York City before all is done. But let's get some perspective. If Rogan Sweeney had me rolling my eyes, Grayson made mutter angrily as I was reading. This guy had MAJOR issues relating to his anger and I really didn't like the way he treated Brianna at times. But the girl took it like an insecure gal would and nobody around her seems to take notice of his less than outstanding performance. If I was playing a drinking game, I could have gotten quite wasted on the number of times Grayson says " Sorry" and Brianna is all "It's okay" and" I will just make you a meal, make your bed, iron your clothes..." SERIOUSLY!!!
I am settling on a 3 star because despite the fact that I didn't care for the leading man, this book held my attention and I just couldn't put it down.
September 14, 2022
4 Estrellitas. Sigo con las hermanas Concannon y éste segundo libro me ha gustado mucho. Admito que el libro de Maggie me dejó con el listón alto y este segundo puede que me haya gustado más.
Brianna Concannon es la menor de las dos hermanas, la más cálida y hogareña, sin ése carácter tormentoso y temperamental que tenía Maggie. A la muerte del padre, éste le dejó a Brie la casona donde se criaron, y esta ha convertido ésa gran casa en un hotel rural muy cuco, donde ella misma cuida, lava, cocina y administra con mucho cariño.
Es temporada baja y una fría tarde de invierno en que Brie no tiene huéspedes, decide subir a limpiar al desván para más adelante convertirlo en otra habitación. Entre polvo y cajas, Brie descubre varios secretos sobre su padre, unas extrañas inversiones y unas misteriosas cartas de una mujer con la que tuvo una relación y a la que dejó con algo.
En medio de éste descubrimiento llega al hotel un huésped al que no esperaba hasta dentro de unos días. Grayson Thane, el escritor yanki, un americano muy sexy, con mucha labia y que escribe novela negra.
Grayson Thane es un alma solitaria, es un hombre con un oscuro pasado al que se le ha dado muy bien juntar letras y publicar best sellers que le dan la vida de una auténtica celebridad. Grey viaja a Irlanda en busca de inspiración para su próxima novela, y ha alquilado una de las habitaciones de Brie para los próximos meses, mientras esté inmerso en su trabajo.
La química entre ambos personajes se palpa en el ambiente desde el principio, y no es sólo porque Brie sea una excelente cocinera, Gray se prenda de ella desde el principio y a ella le atrae mucho el americano. El problema con Brie es que no quiere volver a sufrir. Años atrás amó a otro hombre que la abandonó, y desde entonces Brie se ha convertido en una mujer muy fría en el amor (de ahí el título del libro).
Pero como dije más arriba, Gray es un hombre con mucha labia y encanto y hará lo inimaginable para llegar a Brie. Quizás lo que ha podido fastidiar el romance de ellos es que Gray está de paso, no tiene un hogar fijo y nunca se ha comprometido en serio con nada ni con nadie y no está dispuesto a hacerlo ahora. ¿Cómo soportará Brie que otro hombre al que ama la abandone?
El romance me ha gustado, aunque admito que Gray ha tenido una serie de detalles muy feos que me han sobrado. Creo que aquí se nota que ésta serie de Nora es viejilla y los caracteres de ellos son más machistas.
Pese a ello, Nora Roberts ha creado una atmósfera bellísima de Irlanda, y me ha mantenido pegada a sus páginas con la historia de trasfondo, que no ha sido sólo el romance, si no dos búsquedas: la de las inversiones de su padre, que le dará más de un quebradero de cabeza, y buscar a la otra mujer de la que se enamoró su padre.
Éste último secreto será el que enlace con el libro que cierra la trilogía, y que ahora mismo me tiene muy intrigada, pues quiero conocer qué fue lo que pasó con la nueva hermana desaparecida. En definitiva, ésta está siendo una trilogía muy entretenida.
Brianna Concannon es la menor de las dos hermanas, la más cálida y hogareña, sin ése carácter tormentoso y temperamental que tenía Maggie. A la muerte del padre, éste le dejó a Brie la casona donde se criaron, y esta ha convertido ésa gran casa en un hotel rural muy cuco, donde ella misma cuida, lava, cocina y administra con mucho cariño.
Es temporada baja y una fría tarde de invierno en que Brie no tiene huéspedes, decide subir a limpiar al desván para más adelante convertirlo en otra habitación. Entre polvo y cajas, Brie descubre varios secretos sobre su padre, unas extrañas inversiones y unas misteriosas cartas de una mujer con la que tuvo una relación y a la que dejó con algo.
En medio de éste descubrimiento llega al hotel un huésped al que no esperaba hasta dentro de unos días. Grayson Thane, el escritor yanki, un americano muy sexy, con mucha labia y que escribe novela negra.
Grayson Thane es un alma solitaria, es un hombre con un oscuro pasado al que se le ha dado muy bien juntar letras y publicar best sellers que le dan la vida de una auténtica celebridad. Grey viaja a Irlanda en busca de inspiración para su próxima novela, y ha alquilado una de las habitaciones de Brie para los próximos meses, mientras esté inmerso en su trabajo.
La química entre ambos personajes se palpa en el ambiente desde el principio, y no es sólo porque Brie sea una excelente cocinera, Gray se prenda de ella desde el principio y a ella le atrae mucho el americano. El problema con Brie es que no quiere volver a sufrir. Años atrás amó a otro hombre que la abandonó, y desde entonces Brie se ha convertido en una mujer muy fría en el amor (de ahí el título del libro).
Pero como dije más arriba, Gray es un hombre con mucha labia y encanto y hará lo inimaginable para llegar a Brie. Quizás lo que ha podido fastidiar el romance de ellos es que Gray está de paso, no tiene un hogar fijo y nunca se ha comprometido en serio con nada ni con nadie y no está dispuesto a hacerlo ahora. ¿Cómo soportará Brie que otro hombre al que ama la abandone?
El romance me ha gustado, aunque admito que Gray ha tenido una serie de detalles muy feos que me han sobrado. Creo que aquí se nota que ésta serie de Nora es viejilla y los caracteres de ellos son más machistas.
Pese a ello, Nora Roberts ha creado una atmósfera bellísima de Irlanda, y me ha mantenido pegada a sus páginas con la historia de trasfondo, que no ha sido sólo el romance, si no dos búsquedas: la de las inversiones de su padre, que le dará más de un quebradero de cabeza, y buscar a la otra mujer de la que se enamoró su padre.
Éste último secreto será el que enlace con el libro que cierra la trilogía, y que ahora mismo me tiene muy intrigada, pues quiero conocer qué fue lo que pasó con la nueva hermana desaparecida. En definitiva, ésta está siendo una trilogía muy entretenida.
March 22, 2018
When you have a...
...a writer...
...and Ireland...
then you'll definitely have a romance!
This is the second time I read this book, so the following review is older. I am not going to change it because I loved it again!
I LOVED IT! Every single page of this book was great! The author describes both the scenery and the characters with beautiful details and the reader feels comfortable with them. Of course, I am a huge fan of everything Irish but it’s not the only reason that I liked this book. The main reason is the fact that the characters seems the real deal. They made bad and good decisions, they have regrets and they’re not afraid of admitting what they want at the end.
This is the story of Brianna. I have to admit that she seemed kind of boring in the first book but I am glad that she wasn’t boring at all in this one. Yeah, the truth is that she’s a shy one and very quiet but she’s not boring.
Brianna lived all her life with her mother (or The Snake as I want to address her) but not that she lives alone and managing her B&B she’s very happy. Or at least, she pretends she is because the truth is that she’s very lonely. She craves to be loved and love in return. She wants to have a big family because she’s the kind of woman who loves to take care of other people. She is shy and she doesn’t want to be a bother for anyone. Sometimes she acts like she doesn’t matter much but the truth is that everyone loves her because of her kind nature.
Grayson Thane is an author who lived like a gypsy, without having a permanent home. He went to Brianna’s B&B because he needed to write his new book in this location. He’s the kind of man who didn’t want any ties with anyone and, of course, love wasn’t in his plans. But there, in this small Ireland town, he found both love and a home. I liked him a lot because he was funny and kind. I realized that he wasn’t a loner by nature, but because he was afraid.
I loved this book not only because it had a great plot and an amazing couple, but because we can learn secrets from the past that can change the life of the sisters. I won’t say anything because I don’t want to write any spoilers but I guarantee that all the fans of this genre will love it!
...a writer...
...and Ireland...
then you'll definitely have a romance!
This is the second time I read this book, so the following review is older. I am not going to change it because I loved it again!
I LOVED IT! Every single page of this book was great! The author describes both the scenery and the characters with beautiful details and the reader feels comfortable with them. Of course, I am a huge fan of everything Irish but it’s not the only reason that I liked this book. The main reason is the fact that the characters seems the real deal. They made bad and good decisions, they have regrets and they’re not afraid of admitting what they want at the end.
This is the story of Brianna. I have to admit that she seemed kind of boring in the first book but I am glad that she wasn’t boring at all in this one. Yeah, the truth is that she’s a shy one and very quiet but she’s not boring.
Brianna lived all her life with her mother (or The Snake as I want to address her) but not that she lives alone and managing her B&B she’s very happy. Or at least, she pretends she is because the truth is that she’s very lonely. She craves to be loved and love in return. She wants to have a big family because she’s the kind of woman who loves to take care of other people. She is shy and she doesn’t want to be a bother for anyone. Sometimes she acts like she doesn’t matter much but the truth is that everyone loves her because of her kind nature.
Grayson Thane is an author who lived like a gypsy, without having a permanent home. He went to Brianna’s B&B because he needed to write his new book in this location. He’s the kind of man who didn’t want any ties with anyone and, of course, love wasn’t in his plans. But there, in this small Ireland town, he found both love and a home. I liked him a lot because he was funny and kind. I realized that he wasn’t a loner by nature, but because he was afraid.
I loved this book not only because it had a great plot and an amazing couple, but because we can learn secrets from the past that can change the life of the sisters. I won’t say anything because I don’t want to write any spoilers but I guarantee that all the fans of this genre will love it!
May 14, 2024
Happy Plot
As usual, this Nora Roberts book is exceptionally good. Like mostRobert books, it is full of interesting and easy to relate to characters.
The plot is light with a predictable twist at the end.
I need books like this in my life once in a while, especially after I have had an experience with one that’s not so good.
I highly recommend.
As usual, this Nora Roberts book is exceptionally good. Like mostRobert books, it is full of interesting and easy to relate to characters.
The plot is light with a predictable twist at the end.
I need books like this in my life once in a while, especially after I have had an experience with one that’s not so good.
I highly recommend.
May 17, 2021
I loved the second book in this series. When it first came out I remember waiting on bated breath for it to get released. I practically dragged my mother to the mall and went to Books-A-Million (remember that place?) and grabbed this and who knows what else. I just recall going home and curling up in bed and happily starting Brianna's story. I loved Brianna since she was the ice to Maggie's fire. I really do wish that Roberts had just did a duology, cause the third book just doesn't gel with the other two at all.
"Born in Ice" follows Brianna Concannon who is happily running her B and B. When a mystery writer named Grayson Thane comes to stay at the B and B she finds herself falling for him. I loved the two of them together honestly. This was a slow burn but no less wonderful romance. We have Maggie and Rogan still here. Brianna and Maggie are still focused on finding their half sibling (and honestly this was the worst sub-plot ever in all of the books).
"Born in Ice" follows Brianna Concannon who is happily running her B and B. When a mystery writer named Grayson Thane comes to stay at the B and B she finds herself falling for him. I loved the two of them together honestly. This was a slow burn but no less wonderful romance. We have Maggie and Rogan still here. Brianna and Maggie are still focused on finding their half sibling (and honestly this was the worst sub-plot ever in all of the books).
May 8, 2009
This book brought Grayson Thane into my life. I will forever be single until I find the real life incarnation of this man.
Read
July 17, 2018I knew it would happen one day: I found my least favorite Nora Roberts novel. I was particularly disappointed because I really loved the first book of this trilogy, but Gray's jerkishness was souring, and Brianna's niceness fell into doormat territory too often. I loved the moments she stood up for herself (against her mother, and when Gray tries to manipulate her into being angry at him), but I think it's a personal thing: I want a more assertive heroine who goes for what she wants. The old adage might go, "If you love someone, set them free," but my personal preference is to read about a heroine unwilling to be passive.
Gray didn't work for me. I didn't get a good sense of him loving Brianna as a person as opposed to the idea of her, her quaint little inn in her quaint little village, that he wrote in his head. It's never a good sign when I'm thinking, "You could do better" at the end of a romance, but I thought Brianna could do better. His acts of kindness were too often bewildering or patronizing to balance out the times I thought he was jerkish, self-centered and stuck in his head, and inconsiderate.
And, not gonna lie, the nightgown fetish was baffling.
Gray and Brianna just weren't for me. I would have given the book 2 stars, because I did enjoy a nice little jaunt into life owning a B&B, but...
Forgiving someone who ransacked and robbed your B&B (your home and your place of work!) and violated your trust? I'm sure it's a nice thing to do, but it was presented in far too cutesy of a manner for me to not be horrified.
I'm probably just a little cynical and cold-hearted to enjoy this novel. I'm still looking forward to reading the third book, because I know Maggie's reactions to Shannon ought to be interesting. (That, and I wanted to know if Maggie still brought the ceramic cow home to Rogan. Yeah, I know, that really wasn't the point of that plot, but that just goes to show how uninvested I was in Brianna and Gray.)
Gray didn't work for me. I didn't get a good sense of him loving Brianna as a person as opposed to the idea of her, her quaint little inn in her quaint little village, that he wrote in his head. It's never a good sign when I'm thinking, "You could do better" at the end of a romance, but I thought Brianna could do better. His acts of kindness were too often bewildering or patronizing to balance out the times I thought he was jerkish, self-centered and stuck in his head, and inconsiderate.
And, not gonna lie, the nightgown fetish was baffling.
Gray and Brianna just weren't for me. I would have given the book 2 stars, because I did enjoy a nice little jaunt into life owning a B&B, but...
Forgiving someone who ransacked and robbed your B&B (your home and your place of work!) and violated your trust? I'm sure it's a nice thing to do, but it was presented in far too cutesy of a manner for me to not be horrified.
I'm probably just a little cynical and cold-hearted to enjoy this novel. I'm still looking forward to reading the third book, because I know Maggie's reactions to Shannon ought to be interesting. (That, and I wanted to know if Maggie still brought the ceramic cow home to Rogan. Yeah, I know, that really wasn't the point of that plot, but that just goes to show how uninvested I was in Brianna and Gray.)
February 15, 2022
Brianna Concannon has turned her family home into a bed and breakfast, happy to invite others in for good food and a warm bed. But winter is not the tourist season and she is grateful to get a guest who wants to stay for at least a month. American writer Grayson Thane has no family and no roots and likes it that way. He moves from place to place, looking for inspiration for his books. Gray takes one look at the beautiful innkeeper and wants to get to know her. He loves her cooking, her quiet nature and her loyalty to her family. Brianna is drawn to Gray, but knows that he is a nomad and not a person who would stay permanently.
This is the second book in Roberts' Concannon Sisters trilogy. I absolutely loved both Brianna and Gray. Both are slightly wounded by the past, but have made better lives for themselves. And, they are both lonely, looking for that something that will make them complete. This is my favorite story in this wonderful series and I highly recommend it. My rating: 5 Stars.
2022 Re-read: I am listening to the audiobooks this time around. Still love this book.
This is the second book in Roberts' Concannon Sisters trilogy. I absolutely loved both Brianna and Gray. Both are slightly wounded by the past, but have made better lives for themselves. And, they are both lonely, looking for that something that will make them complete. This is my favorite story in this wonderful series and I highly recommend it. My rating: 5 Stars.
2022 Re-read: I am listening to the audiobooks this time around. Still love this book.
April 15, 2017
Book two of "Born In" Trilogy, born in Ice was the story of Brianna and Grayson.
And what a sweet sweet love story it was.
Brianna is the shy and introverted owner of her own B&B, Blackthorn. When during the lone winter months, her deserted home is invaded by a recluse crime writer, he brings a wave of fresh air into her life.
It's difficult not to love Brianna. The tender, sensitive, caring young lady- suppressed by her own mother, past and circumstances- yearning for some happiness. And she has so much love to give. Yet she's strong. And you feel her strength as the story progresses.
Grayson, our hero; the loner who has been scarred by his childhood- growing up in foster homes and living his adult life as a gypsy- restlessly moving from place to place- yet finally finding a home in Brianna. He fights his feelings tooth and nail, but the love and trust Brianna has for him finally gradually seeps in.
The chemistry between the leads is explosive, beautiful love scenes. There is a good dose of tear-inducing angst too- which totally made me cry (yay!).
Brianna dealt with his various moods; and he gradually learned to sense hers in return
It was great to see Maggie and Rogan enjoying their HEA; an update upon the always unhappy mother; and a secret potential relative that is active searched for in this book.
The story keeps you on your toes- despite your heart knowing they'll be together in the end- and there are so many feels for the h and H. They totally deserve each other.
FLOVED it.
Safe
5/5
And what a sweet sweet love story it was.
Brianna is the shy and introverted owner of her own B&B, Blackthorn. When during the lone winter months, her deserted home is invaded by a recluse crime writer, he brings a wave of fresh air into her life.
It's difficult not to love Brianna. The tender, sensitive, caring young lady- suppressed by her own mother, past and circumstances- yearning for some happiness. And she has so much love to give. Yet she's strong. And you feel her strength as the story progresses.
Grayson, our hero; the loner who has been scarred by his childhood- growing up in foster homes and living his adult life as a gypsy- restlessly moving from place to place- yet finally finding a home in Brianna. He fights his feelings tooth and nail, but the love and trust Brianna has for him finally gradually seeps in.
The chemistry between the leads is explosive, beautiful love scenes. There is a good dose of tear-inducing angst too- which totally made me cry (yay!).
Brianna dealt with his various moods; and he gradually learned to sense hers in return
It was great to see Maggie and Rogan enjoying their HEA; an update upon the always unhappy mother; and a secret potential relative that is active searched for in this book.
The story keeps you on your toes- despite your heart knowing they'll be together in the end- and there are so many feels for the h and H. They totally deserve each other.
FLOVED it.
Safe
5/5
January 9, 2022
I loved both the hero and the heroine in this book from the start. The heroine, Brianna, is the peacemaker in the family. She has always tried to smooth over difficulties, but this book shows how she has been affected by the discord between her parents and the resulting familial difficulties. Despite, or perhaps because of this, Brianna has sought to make a peaceful domestic atmosphere that she has translated into her small business of her inn. We learn the secrets in her past which result her re-evaluating her life. Into that disruption comes Gray who pushes Brianna from her safe space. Gray is a man who is so scarred by his past, yet he has built a great life, but with few personal connections. He sees this as a kind of freedom, but he is challenged by Brianna and the town where she lives. A man who insists that he will not stay. When he starts an affair, he might seem callous, but Gray is so open and honest and caring that you understand him as a troubled individual rather than the jerk he sometimes come across as. Nora Roberts descriptions of the people and the small Irish village is like taking a trip to the Emerald Isle.
September 19, 2021
Me ha gustado muchísimo, y lo esperaba demasiado porque el anterior no me convenció. Gray y Brie son sensacionales, y me he divertido mucho con la sub trama de las acciones.
October 17, 2020
3.5⭐'s
I went to our local Habitat for Humanity charity store and there on the floor of the book section marked "Steal of the Day" was a box of Nora Roberts paperbacks. For $2! 35 books. I kid you not. I had never read anything from her, but of course I'd heard of her. I mean, who hasn't? So I snatched that thing up and checked out fast, figuring at the least I could just re-donate (is that even a word?). The first one I read was about Alaska and it was an emotional 5 star read, so my expectations were really high. But...this one just didn't quite make it for me. It's more romance than suspense and I agree with another poster that said her earlier stuff was more romance and most people either like early or later. So far, I'm liking the later. I'm definitely keeping that first one and it more than pays for the $2 price tag. She can really write though, and it feels silly to even give her a star rating based on how the story didn't quite please me, lol, bc reading her books are such a pleasure for her writing ability alone. I think I'm going to be quite the J.D. Robb fan.
I went to our local Habitat for Humanity charity store and there on the floor of the book section marked "Steal of the Day" was a box of Nora Roberts paperbacks. For $2! 35 books. I kid you not. I had never read anything from her, but of course I'd heard of her. I mean, who hasn't? So I snatched that thing up and checked out fast, figuring at the least I could just re-donate (is that even a word?). The first one I read was about Alaska and it was an emotional 5 star read, so my expectations were really high. But...this one just didn't quite make it for me. It's more romance than suspense and I agree with another poster that said her earlier stuff was more romance and most people either like early or later. So far, I'm liking the later. I'm definitely keeping that first one and it more than pays for the $2 price tag. She can really write though, and it feels silly to even give her a star rating based on how the story didn't quite please me, lol, bc reading her books are such a pleasure for her writing ability alone. I think I'm going to be quite the J.D. Robb fan.
February 16, 2020
Classic Nora Roberts. Just terrific! I even shed a few tears at the end. Happy tears! ;)
November 13, 2021
Loved it!!!
October 11, 2012
SYNOPSIS: Born In Fire, continues the romantic Irish saga--the story of the Concannon sisters, three modern women bound by the timeless spirit of their land.
When the harsh storms of winter descended upon western Ireland, the locals stayed indoors--and visitors stayed away. Brianna Concannon's bed-and-breakfast became a cold and empty place. But that was fine with Brianna. She enjoyed the peace and quiet, even when the icy winds howled at her window. But this year she's expecting an unusual guest--mystery writer Grayson Thane from America. A restless wanderer with a painful past, he plans to spend the cold winter alone. But sometimes fate has a plan of its own. Sometimes a fire can be born in ice...
Born in Ice, the 2nd book in the Born In Nora Robert’s trilogy and once again I am transported into the world of the Concannon sisters and the magic of Ireland.
Brianna, the younger sister of Maggie from Born in Fire http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/33... is kind, beautiful, caring, warm-hearted and the one who keeps the peace in her family.
She runs a bed-and-breakfast which she set up in her family home, Blackthorne Cottage that has become well-known for her cooking and baking. Having set up her bitter-filled mother in a place in the village, she longs to find someone to give all the love she has in her and have her own family like her sister, who is now pregnant.
Grayson Thane, a famous American writer, has booked into the b&b to write his next novel which takes place in Ireland. He’s a loner and with a painful past is not a man that is interested in making commitments with any woman. He finds himself drawn to Brianna but has to face his demons before he realizes his love for her.
The growing relationship is a delightful and sweet. Seeing them come together, an absolute joy. She’s not afraid to admit her love for Grayson and their interaction and dialogue is really fabulous.
There are many secrets, some which Brianna discovers and perhaps understanding the reason for her mother’s unhappiness and bitterness.
Loved meeting up with Maggie and Rogan and have a “peep” into their lives. And Murphy….such an enigmatic and so interesting..and not forgetting….gorgeous Irish man.
The characters are so likeable, making you feel part of their lives. Another thing I love about the series, is the vivid descriptions of the Irish setting – soaring cliffs, flower-filled meadows, quaint villages and villagers, castles, the wildness of the sea – so real to me.
Yet another great book by Nora Roberts that I more than just like……I LOVE IT.
When the harsh storms of winter descended upon western Ireland, the locals stayed indoors--and visitors stayed away. Brianna Concannon's bed-and-breakfast became a cold and empty place. But that was fine with Brianna. She enjoyed the peace and quiet, even when the icy winds howled at her window. But this year she's expecting an unusual guest--mystery writer Grayson Thane from America. A restless wanderer with a painful past, he plans to spend the cold winter alone. But sometimes fate has a plan of its own. Sometimes a fire can be born in ice...
Born in Ice, the 2nd book in the Born In Nora Robert’s trilogy and once again I am transported into the world of the Concannon sisters and the magic of Ireland.
Brianna, the younger sister of Maggie from Born in Fire http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/33... is kind, beautiful, caring, warm-hearted and the one who keeps the peace in her family.
She runs a bed-and-breakfast which she set up in her family home, Blackthorne Cottage that has become well-known for her cooking and baking. Having set up her bitter-filled mother in a place in the village, she longs to find someone to give all the love she has in her and have her own family like her sister, who is now pregnant.
Grayson Thane, a famous American writer, has booked into the b&b to write his next novel which takes place in Ireland. He’s a loner and with a painful past is not a man that is interested in making commitments with any woman. He finds himself drawn to Brianna but has to face his demons before he realizes his love for her.
The growing relationship is a delightful and sweet. Seeing them come together, an absolute joy. She’s not afraid to admit her love for Grayson and their interaction and dialogue is really fabulous.
There are many secrets, some which Brianna discovers and perhaps understanding the reason for her mother’s unhappiness and bitterness.
Loved meeting up with Maggie and Rogan and have a “peep” into their lives. And Murphy….such an enigmatic and so interesting..and not forgetting….gorgeous Irish man.
The characters are so likeable, making you feel part of their lives. Another thing I love about the series, is the vivid descriptions of the Irish setting – soaring cliffs, flower-filled meadows, quaint villages and villagers, castles, the wildness of the sea – so real to me.
Yet another great book by Nora Roberts that I more than just like……I LOVE IT.
January 17, 2019
This book made me cry a little bit towards the end officially this book is the first book that I almost cried to
April 5, 2019
Много ми е на сърце тази поредица. Отдавна не съм плакала и смяла на глас от една книга в рамките на 15 минути 💗 Толкова много любов има в тези книги, любов към земята на Ирландия, към традициите им, от един баща-мечтател към двете му така различни дъщери, любовта между Маги и Бри и без да е на последно място любовта на двама много силни мъже към жените, които преобръщат живота им.
Двете истории колкото си приличат, толкова и се различават, четат се като приказка и ти се иска да си там, да чуеш океана, да видиш цветята на Бри и да опиташ тортите й, да докоснеш стъклото на Маги /без да ти счупи ръцете 😃/ и да се загубиш в цветовете на изкуството й.
Третата книга е малко по-мистична отколкото харесвам, но все пак е добър финал на историята и за всички има ... И заживели щастливо 😍
Двете истории колкото си приличат, толкова и се различават, четат се като приказка и ти се иска да си там, да чуеш океана, да видиш цветята на Бри и да опиташ тортите й, да докоснеш стъклото на Маги /без да ти счупи ръцете 😃/ и да се загубиш в цветовете на изкуството й.
Третата книга е малко по-мистична отколкото харесвам, но все пак е добър финал на историята и за всички има ... И заживели щастливо 😍
July 9, 2012
Brianna Concannon is one of nature's true homemakers—someone who finds joy and comfort in seeing to the needs of those under her care. While this leaves her open to mischief-makers like her mother, it also draws her into the hearts of those who care for her.
I was prepared to like Brianna going into this book, and that didn't disappoint. I wish I could have liked Grayson Thane, more, though. He has depth as a character and you can understand his odd mixture of open-handed kindness and gruff, isolating, independence. That doesn't mean I have to like it, though. And I particularly didn't like him as a romantic interest for Brie. Yes, he's great for her once he gets over himself. But then, you could say that of anybody who finally loved Brie and would support her.
I also wasn't a fan of some of the trappings of this story. There were a few too many plot threads that hared off on weird tangents, too many random events at just the right moment, and too many situations where Gray just happened to have a skill or knowledge for the situation. It felt cobbled-together and a little strained.
In the end, there was enough humor and good story-telling that I'll bump it to three stars rather than the mere two I was headed for. I laughed out loud a time or two and that's valuable entertainment, right there. Still, I thought this was Roberts batting below her average.
A note about the narrator: Grayson is an American in Ireland. As such, his dialogue really should have stood out from the surrounding characters. Fiacre Douglas started off really rocky with the American accent, doing that thing some across the pond do where they fake the American twang by talking out of their nose. I think that this evened out as the book progressed, and I don't think it was just me getting used to it. Still, with Gray taking up so much of the novel, it was sad that a stronger talent with accents didn't have the reading of it.
A note about steamy: This book is a touch steamier than Roberts' standard. There are at least three explicit sex scenes and they aren't short. Also, I strongly dislike when virgins don't have even a twinge of pain because their lovers are just so expert, the moment is exactly right, and/or they are so very ready. Yeah, the sex scenes are supposed to be idealized in these books, but that seems like stretching things a bit too far...
I was prepared to like Brianna going into this book, and that didn't disappoint. I wish I could have liked Grayson Thane, more, though. He has depth as a character and you can understand his odd mixture of open-handed kindness and gruff, isolating, independence. That doesn't mean I have to like it, though. And I particularly didn't like him as a romantic interest for Brie. Yes, he's great for her once he gets over himself. But then, you could say that of anybody who finally loved Brie and would support her.
I also wasn't a fan of some of the trappings of this story. There were a few too many plot threads that hared off on weird tangents, too many random events at just the right moment, and too many situations where Gray just happened to have a skill or knowledge for the situation. It felt cobbled-together and a little strained.
In the end, there was enough humor and good story-telling that I'll bump it to three stars rather than the mere two I was headed for. I laughed out loud a time or two and that's valuable entertainment, right there. Still, I thought this was Roberts batting below her average.
A note about the narrator: Grayson is an American in Ireland. As such, his dialogue really should have stood out from the surrounding characters. Fiacre Douglas started off really rocky with the American accent, doing that thing some across the pond do where they fake the American twang by talking out of their nose. I think that this evened out as the book progressed, and I don't think it was just me getting used to it. Still, with Gray taking up so much of the novel, it was sad that a stronger talent with accents didn't have the reading of it.
A note about steamy: This book is a touch steamier than Roberts' standard. There are at least three explicit sex scenes and they aren't short. Also, I strongly dislike when virgins don't have even a twinge of pain because their lovers are just so expert, the moment is exactly right, and/or they are so very ready. Yeah, the sex scenes are supposed to be idealized in these books, but that seems like stretching things a bit too far...
February 12, 2022
Born in Ice
4 Stars
The product of a loveless marriage and a broken engagement, Brianna Concannon conceals her yearning for love and family beneath a cool, calm, and detached facade. Brie channels all of her energy into making her cozy B&B a warm and welcoming haven for travelers. But all of Brie's hidden desires are awakened when sexy American author Grayson Thane comes to stay. With secrets of his own and a strong aversion to forming attachments, Gray is, nevertheless, irrevocably drawn to Brie. Can this unlikely couple overcome their differences and have a future together?
This is classic Nora Roberts. While some of the tropes, the heroine as a domestic goddess and the hero as an overbearing surly commitment-phobe, are outdated, Brianna and Gray are sweet together and their opposites-attract romance is entertaining overall.
As the peacemaker in her family, Brianna keeps her stronger emotions to herself. While she does thaw somewhat for Gray, her "icy" demeanor and almost nonchalant reactions are a little off-putting at times. Moreover, the fact that she is annoying.
The revelations concerning Gray's past go a long way toward explaining his relationship issues. While it is clear that he honestly loves Brie, his 180 change in attitude with regarding to settling down is never fully explained.
In sum, it is always a concern that favorite reads from years past will not hold-up well to the ravages of time and the changes in themes and tropes. Brie and Gray's story is mostly successful in this regard and I can only hope that Murphy and Shannon's will too.
4 Stars
The product of a loveless marriage and a broken engagement, Brianna Concannon conceals her yearning for love and family beneath a cool, calm, and detached facade. Brie channels all of her energy into making her cozy B&B a warm and welcoming haven for travelers. But all of Brie's hidden desires are awakened when sexy American author Grayson Thane comes to stay. With secrets of his own and a strong aversion to forming attachments, Gray is, nevertheless, irrevocably drawn to Brie. Can this unlikely couple overcome their differences and have a future together?
This is classic Nora Roberts. While some of the tropes, the heroine as a domestic goddess and the hero as an overbearing surly commitment-phobe, are outdated, Brianna and Gray are sweet together and their opposites-attract romance is entertaining overall.
As the peacemaker in her family, Brianna keeps her stronger emotions to herself. While she does thaw somewhat for Gray, her "icy" demeanor and almost nonchalant reactions are a little off-putting at times. Moreover, the fact that she is annoying.
The revelations concerning Gray's past go a long way toward explaining his relationship issues. While it is clear that he honestly loves Brie, his 180 change in attitude with regarding to settling down is never fully explained.
In sum, it is always a concern that favorite reads from years past will not hold-up well to the ravages of time and the changes in themes and tropes. Brie and Gray's story is mostly successful in this regard and I can only hope that Murphy and Shannon's will too.
February 28, 2016
Al parecer la señora Roberts y yo nos hemos convertido en grandes amigas, y solo hicieron falta unos cuantos intentos para enamorarme de su estilo. Es lo que pasa a veces, que necesitamos encontrar "el libro" que nos llega al corazón para poder apreciar el talento de un autor y ver su trabajo desde otra óptica. En mi caso, "el libro" que me llevó a disfrutar de la narrativa de Nora fue Nacida del fuego, la primera parte de esta trilogía, y fue tanta mi adoración que decidí continuar con este tan pronto como pude. La historia de Brianna y Gray, de Nacida del hielo, es sencillamente preciosa. Brianna es un personaje adorable y encantador con un mundo interior mucho más complejo de lo que aparenta; me ha recordado a Jane Bennet, de Orgullo y prejuicio, tan noble y generosa es; habrá quien crea que demasiado, pero en mi opinión y experiencia, el mundo necesita de personas como ella, sencillamente buenas. Gray es también un personaje interesante, un tanto cabezota y cerrado a veces, pero es comprensible con el fardo que carga, ambos se complementan de forma perfecta y su romance es creíble y muy hermoso. Ha sido un placer leer esta historia, volver a "ver" a tantos personajes de Nacida del fuego que me robaron el corazón; tengo muchos deseos de leer Nacida de la vergüenza, el último.
July 20, 2019
3.5 stars
The heroine was a goody-two shoes and perfect at basically everything. Still decent.
The heroine was a goody-two shoes and perfect at basically everything. Still decent.
December 16, 2018
I like this nearly as much as the first book, but something about it is just too nice, I think? I love their trip to New York, though, I deeply feel Brianna's awe of the city. And Grayson is about as generous a hero as you can find in romance. Good reread.
August 6, 2016
Rarely have I read a trilogy where the second book is better that the first. This one is. As a pure romance it ticks all my boxes and is just a lovely story. This older NR does not show its' age and is a timeless story of a hero wanderer who never had a home and a firmly rooted heroine who never wished to be anywhere else.
April 11, 2023
4,5 estrellas me ha gustado más que el anterior, Brianna me ha gustado mucho más que Maggie y Grayson me ha gustado pero para mi gusto se ha hecho mucho de rogar, no me ha gustado tanto como Rogan, hemos sabido más de la vida de los personajes del primer libro y hemos sabido de la tercera hermana.
Brianna si que es contenida es dulce pero sabe ser fria de ahí el nombre del libro, me ha sorprendido que fuera tan inocente Nora Roberts no suele tener a protagonistas Virgenes tan mayores la historia me ha parecido más compleja que el primer libro de hecho tiene casi 100 páginas más, me ha gustado como narraba lo buena que es Brianna con la cocina me daba hambre cada vez que preparaba algo me ha parecido a diferencia de Maggie que era desordenada y temperamental, Brianna me ha parecido todo lo contrario organizada, dulce y templada y Grayson todo lo contrario de Rogan con un pasado turbio, en esta novela es el el que no quiere comprometerse ni aceptar que la ama debido a su pasado y se hace de rogar, aunque también se nota que estás novelas son antiguas que ya tienen casi 30 años porque los protagonistas son más dominantes y " machistas" por decirlo de alguna manera aunque a mí eso no me molesta, en esta ocasión en vez de narrarte cómo se fabrica el vidrio la autora explica el proceso de escribir un libro seguramente aquí la autora ha hablado de su propia experiencia, como siempre nos ha narrado la vida cotidiana del condado de Clare hemos profundizado más en algunos personajes como Murphy, la madre de ellas Maeve y sabemos cómo les ha ido a Maggie y Rogan apunto de ser padres y luego con su hijo, la abuela de Rogan Christine y el tío abuelo de ellas Niall que se casan en este libro, me ha gustado saber de los personajes secundarios del primer libro aunque sea con pinceladas en fin es un libro muy ameno y a mí se me ha hecho más entretenido que el primero con más enjundia lo recomiendo mucho para mí mejor que el primero.
Brianna si que es contenida es dulce pero sabe ser fria de ahí el nombre del libro, me ha sorprendido que fuera tan inocente Nora Roberts no suele tener a protagonistas Virgenes tan mayores la historia me ha parecido más compleja que el primer libro de hecho tiene casi 100 páginas más, me ha gustado como narraba lo buena que es Brianna con la cocina me daba hambre cada vez que preparaba algo me ha parecido a diferencia de Maggie que era desordenada y temperamental, Brianna me ha parecido todo lo contrario organizada, dulce y templada y Grayson todo lo contrario de Rogan con un pasado turbio, en esta novela es el el que no quiere comprometerse ni aceptar que la ama debido a su pasado y se hace de rogar, aunque también se nota que estás novelas son antiguas que ya tienen casi 30 años porque los protagonistas son más dominantes y " machistas" por decirlo de alguna manera aunque a mí eso no me molesta, en esta ocasión en vez de narrarte cómo se fabrica el vidrio la autora explica el proceso de escribir un libro seguramente aquí la autora ha hablado de su propia experiencia, como siempre nos ha narrado la vida cotidiana del condado de Clare hemos profundizado más en algunos personajes como Murphy, la madre de ellas Maeve y sabemos cómo les ha ido a Maggie y Rogan apunto de ser padres y luego con su hijo, la abuela de Rogan Christine y el tío abuelo de ellas Niall que se casan en este libro, me ha gustado saber de los personajes secundarios del primer libro aunque sea con pinceladas en fin es un libro muy ameno y a mí se me ha hecho más entretenido que el primero con más enjundia lo recomiendo mucho para mí mejor que el primero.
May 28, 2017
Fue precioso, supongo que me gustó aún mucho más porque leí el primero y se nota el contraste entre las dos hermanas. Dónde Maggie es fuego, Brie es hielo.
"—Estoy enamorada de ti, Grayson. —Sacó otra sábana y empezó tranquilamente la misma rutina—. Lo que sin lugar a dudas me convierte en una imbécil, por amar a un hombre tan cobarde que le teme a sus propios sentimientos. Tiene miedo de amar porque no tuvo amor cuando era un niño. Y tiene miedo de tener un hogar porque nunca ha tenido uno."
Born in Ice nos cuenta ésta vez la historia de Brie junto a su huesped Grayson, que llega en una noche tempestosa e interrumpe su vida, se cuela en su rutina por seis meses mientras ella poco a poco se va metiendo bajo su piel. A ella ya le han roto el corazón, a él le da miedo amar porque no sabe como hacerlo. Ellos también son opuestos, él va a su propio ritmo, como el artista que es, es temperamental y malhumorado, e incluso diría bipolar, mientras ella es la calma personificada.
Pero ella le da algo que nadie le ha dado... le da un hogar.
November 1, 2021
Como todos los libros de Nora Roberts es un libro que he disfrutado leyendo y me ha tenido enganchada.
La protagonista femenina me ha gustado bastante más que la del primer libro, pero el protagonista masculino no me ha gustado para nada. Sus cambios de humor, su agresividad y en general su comportamiento desmedido y exagerado no me ha gustado.
Además, creo que ha habido algunos elementos que realmente no eran necesarios para la historia pero en los que se ha dado muchas vueltas para al final quedar en nada.
Un final algo apresurado. Tengo ganas de descubrir a la protagonista del tercer libro y saber cómo va a aparecer por el pueblo…
La protagonista femenina me ha gustado bastante más que la del primer libro, pero el protagonista masculino no me ha gustado para nada. Sus cambios de humor, su agresividad y en general su comportamiento desmedido y exagerado no me ha gustado.
Además, creo que ha habido algunos elementos que realmente no eran necesarios para la historia pero en los que se ha dado muchas vueltas para al final quedar en nada.
Un final algo apresurado. Tengo ganas de descubrir a la protagonista del tercer libro y saber cómo va a aparecer por el pueblo…
April 12, 2024
Rating: 5 Stars!!
Review:
This was only the 5th Series ive read by Nora and even tho some of her others were iffy for me, this one is a CLOSE 2ND Favorite behind The Bride Quartet Series.
I think this is My Favorite Book in this series so far mainly because i love that its set at a Bed and Breakfast in Ireland.
The Characters were fun and enjoyable to read about. It was hard to pick a favorite since i still seem to like all the characters.
The Setting was beautifully described which made me feel like i was actually in Ireland while reading especially when the scenery was described.
Overall a Phenomenally Beautifully Written Book 2 in this Contemporary Romance Series. Can't wait to read more by Nora in the future!!
Review:
This was only the 5th Series ive read by Nora and even tho some of her others were iffy for me, this one is a CLOSE 2ND Favorite behind The Bride Quartet Series.
I think this is My Favorite Book in this series so far mainly because i love that its set at a Bed and Breakfast in Ireland.
The Characters were fun and enjoyable to read about. It was hard to pick a favorite since i still seem to like all the characters.
The Setting was beautifully described which made me feel like i was actually in Ireland while reading especially when the scenery was described.
Overall a Phenomenally Beautifully Written Book 2 in this Contemporary Romance Series. Can't wait to read more by Nora in the future!!
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