The title tells it all. This nostalgic, sentimental story set in 1967, is filled with love. Love of country, love of its people, its lakes, rivers, countryside, and the characters who inhabit this slice of Northern Ireland, Ballybucklebo, County Down.
In his preface, author Paul Taylor explains that even though this is the eleventh book in his series, Irish Country Doctor,the first-time reader, of which I am one, need not worry.
“You can start and enjoy this series in any one of the books.”
This story revolves around the doctors of Number One Main Street. Doctor Fingal Flahertie O’Reilly and his associates Dr. Barry Laverty and Doctor Nonie Stevenson minister to the local folk of the area. They are true country doctors who must diagnose and treat all symptoms and ailments.
The readers follow the characters as they face the daily challenges of their lives. Dr. O’Reilly trying to squeeze out time to be with his lovely wife nurse Kitty O’Reilly. Dr. Laverty and his fiance Sue Nolan making plans for their wedding. Dr. Stevenson dealing with an unexpected, personal health crisis. As these story lines unfold, a careening truck crashes into Number One Main Street causing damage to the front room of the building. Now the town council must decide whether to reroute traffic around the town or tear down Number One and the neighboring building.
This is not a story about earth-shaking events. It is a simple tale of loving people in a quiet, pastoral setting. Taylor’s affection for his native country is evident as he tells a simple story set in a simpler time.
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