THE GRACES OF BALLYKEEN

by Una Troy ‧ RELEASE DATE: Jan. 4, 1959

Structurally, and in its intended meanings, this is a pretty good, trim, well-populated light novel. Unfortunately, the writing is so determinedly light-hearted that it often becomes arch, sometimes merely dull, or in the few serious moments, embarrassingly inadequate. The story concerns two amusing old nuns (the ""Graces"" of the title), named Peter and Paul, whose tenure as caretakers of the Ballykeen work-house, already unexpectedly extended by the fact that its last inhabitant is still around and celebrating her 104th birthday, is destined for an early end. The Reverend Mother, however, tired of waiting for Sarah to die, tries to force Peter and Paul back to their convent prematurely, and the two nuns, who have enjoyed their freedom, appeal to the town for help... and find themselves helping, in turn, to smooth the romance of a singularly gauche cub reporter and his girl, to nip a murder in the making, to rescue Jane, a precocious and exceedingly vocal child, from agnostic parents, and to smuggle Mickey, the deserving son of a thief, off to a new life in America. It is neither the town, nor these praise-worthy efforts, however, which finally save the nuns and their Workhouse, but an ingenious and appropriate Act of God. Many readers, tired of sex, violence and problems, will find this book- despite its shortcomings- pleasant, innocuous and frequently entertaining.

Pub Date: Jan. 4, 1959

ISBN: N/A

Page Count: -

Publisher: Dutton

Review Posted Online: N/A

Kirkus Reviews Issue: Jan. 1, 1959

Categories: FICTION