What Once Was True: An Irish WW2 Story (The Robinswood Story Book 1) Kindle Edition

As an aging American women of Irish and English heritage, I found this book extremely enthralling and educational. Ms. Grainger knows how to weave a story that grasps one's attention. A tale of upper class prejudice and working class pride; young love and mature marital love; painful loss; terror inflicted by fledgling IRA members; early years of WWII; espionage and more. I recommend this book without reservation! Now it's on to the next book in the series....

From the first page this book was so interesting. I loved the spunkiest and bond between many characters. As the book got closer to the middle there was way less banter and more seriousness. Many characters lost the personality traits I loved. That’s why I gave it 4stars. It became more of a serious, war story.

Wonderfully written and draws you into their lives!

Loved the characters, the setting, and learning a bit of history to boot. As with all of Ms Grainger’s series, leaves the reader satisfied but looking forward to more.

When I first stated the story I thought it isn't as good as the Queen town's series, but it turned into a really great story, although the Queen town series is still my favourite.

Not wonderful, yet not bad. No surprise, rather bland. Not anything that has not been part of other novels and explored in various ways.

I have so enjoyed the offerings of Jean Grainger. There is so much terrible history of WWII. It is good to have this depiction of people just making due, getting along, and accepting people for who they are.

The novel has well defined characters who move the story with complex emotions. Love and intrigue abound, I very much enjoyed this book

wonderful book. recommend it

Beautifully written.The plot was also delightful. Combining WW2 and the Irish story was really wonderful.Will definitely read more of her books.

This took me back to all those gorgeous period pieces British TV does so well, like Foyle’s War, The Halcyon, Land Girls and especially Downton Abbey. The three sisters are all worthy of taking the lead and, as usual, Ms Grainger’s gentle prose puts the reader right in the middle of the action, feeling every feel. Totally realistic settings from a charming Irish community to the war-torn streets of London - the level of detail transported me miles (and years). Such endearing characters, you are rooting for them at every turn, and the twist at the end took me completely by surprise. But who doesn’t love it when nasty bullies get their come-uppance. Oops - is that a spoiler? I hope not.

A great storyline, well written and with fully developed characters. Such an interesting read that gets you so involved you feel part of it. Ordering book 2 now.

A believable story of changing society and the inability of elders to accept loss of traditions ; , comparison with younger generation who weren’t influenced by class structure and traditional ways, chose love over societal expectations ., adapted to post war times .I’m planning to read the sequel ie the next generation reviving the estate at Robinswood .i was surprised to learn that this Estate remains open today for private parties , vacations ,etc,,,,,remarkable story by a prolific Irish author , Jean Grainger . Love it, Bev Macdougall