This book is a celebration of over 30 of Ireland's most beautiful and historic buildings, many of which appear in print for the first time. Essays from curator William Laffan and interiors and conservation consultant Deirdre Conroy provide a fascinating introduction while over 200 colour photographs make it a gorgeous for a gander. The story of the contrasting fortunes of the houses and their families sets it apart from your average architectural digest. This more human side to the history of the buildings - such as the fact that the hunting lodges of Belvedere inspired Charlotte Bronte's Jane Eyre, or that the atmosphere and aesthetic appeal of Lissadell moved WB Yeats to write some of his most significant poetry - make it more than just a pretty picture book.
