The novel spans four years, culminating in the hotel's grand opening, which ends in an unexpected and dramatic fashion. Key Characters

Patrick's American mistress, whose presence complicates local social norms.

A serious accident at the construction site involving Kate Ryan changes the town's dynamic forever, leading to legal battles and deep-seated guilt.

The story is set in the quiet village of . The peace is disrupted when Patrick O'Neill , a wealthy Irish-American, arrives with a grand ambition: to rebuild the ruined local manor, Fernscourt, into a luxury hotel.

The warm but wary owners of the local pub.

Binchy is celebrated for her "gossipy," conversational style that makes readers feel like they are having coffee with a friend. Critics often note that while this novel deals with heavy topics like , it maintains a sense of realism and gentle humor. Firefly Summer – Maeve Binchy | The Captive Reader