We need more J. Ahern’s in this world…smart, irreverent, sassy and deeply dedicated to her wisdom and the natural encouragement of intuition in all children. Her fictional novel portrays her understanding of the psychic world woven around a magical mystery. - Litany Burns, "The Sixth Sense of Children" & "Develop Your Psychic Abilities"

No matter what June writes, her work is colorful, entertaining and insightful. She has a gift for holding the reader’s attention. I’ve enjoyed her writing in all its forms – books, columns, studies - since 1988 and it only gets better. "Suzette Martinez Standring The Art of Column Writing"

I wasn't sure what to expect when I began reading "The Skye in June." I soon found myself caught up in June's life. J. Ahern has a talent for vivid characters and out-of-the ordinary plots. "The Skye in June" is fraught with emotions: sadness, laughter, tearfulness, anger. I was left wanting more. I want to know more about June's life. What happens next in the MacDonald family? If I could have given this book a 10, I would. Debra Gaynor book reviewer Goodreads.com

This story is a moving and ultimately believable one, not merely for its credible handling of intuitive abilities, but also for its convincing portrayal of a family in which growth only come by squarely facing the past and accepting all of its truths. This is not a story of paganism and psychic affairs parading as literary work, rather it's a beautifully story, set over a course of several years. The author writes in a rather minimalist style that fits well with telling the story.  Staff Reviewer, Indiereader. com (Full review at Indie site)

If you enjoyed Armistead Maupin and his "Tales of the City", you will love sitting down with "The Skye in June." The author, J. Ahern, has an enchanting way of taking you up and down the hills of San Francisco. Madeleine P., Paris, Amazon - France (more below)

Very highly recommended and a great gift for all book lovers. The story is set both in Scotland and San Francisco and is about the adventures of a Scottish family who move to USA to change their life. The story unfolds in Glasgow, the author's birthplace, where the MacDonald family live. The author is very skillful at her descriptions of the setting and the Scottish culture, thus making this novel vivid and real.  This novel is a wonderful story. Lia Metal book reviewer 

Overwhelming Five Stars on Amazon.com (U.S. 54 reviews, Scotland, 1 France 1) and Goodreads.com. Readers are saying: It Should Be a Movie, A Scottish Magic, Wonderfully Delightful, A Great Summer and Winter Read!, Truly a Must Read, A Heartwarming Story on Self Discovery and Enlightenment, Captivating, Brings Back Memories, Charming Page Turner, A San Francisco Truth, Wonderful Read, Unable to Put Down, and more.

"This book is different than any book I have read before, which is such a plus in this day of cookie cutter mass market paperbacks." - Jessica, Goodreads.com

Write your review on Amazon or Goodreads
Now a Kindle Book on Amazon or Ebook coming soon  through this website.

Other readers sent these comments:

You could hear the clacking rosary beads of the religious penguins, feel your lace mantilla tickling your shoulders and recall the nausea from the heavy incense of the Stations of the Cross. If you weren't lucky enough to experience the live San Francisco Sound, flower power of the pungent smell of patchouli oil and marijuana on the streets of "Baghdad by the Bay" or the "City that know how", June will take you there. She will also give you the strength to stand up for your beliefs, get in touch with your intuitive powers, appreciate the love and force of family, but most importantly, accept and embrace that which makes one a unique individual. I wait with impatience for a sequel. Madeleine P., Paris, France

This is a wee sensation of a book. I wouldn't usually read this style of book. I like thrillers but I thoroughly enjoyed it. Although the author is U.S. based, her writing skills are that of the U.K. You don't have to re-read sentences, the story rolls off the page. It's an easy read with lots of colourful characters and places.  So much so, I'm looking forward to the sequel.   As soon as I finished it, I thought, it would make a great T.V. production, a kind of Scottish Dallas! -  T. F. Bree, Glasgow, Scotland. Amazon.com GB

The story reflects being a square pagan peg in a round Catholic hole. First-time novelist, June Ahern, has created a most enjoyable read where the theme of being true to oneself plays out against the changing tapestry of 20th century Scotland and California.The narrative slowly gathers momentum as this effective storyteller reaches her comfort zone in exploring the dynamics of family relationships, loyalties and conflicts.  The characters visually come to life thorough the anguish of sectarian rivalry, the warmth of new year Hogmanay traditions, the humor of the iconic Glasgow "steamies" laundries, the reality of immigrant children as outsiders. As the denouement unfolds its truth and honesty, which triumphs in an original and atmospheric tale from this talented writer. - Helena B., Ayr, Scotland. 

A pal of mine is related to the author and when she said she was ordering some books, (and we could get a shipping discount,) I joined in. The use of  the Scottish language (some from days gone by) was an excellent way to start I thought, for the Scottish readers. The relationships in the family like the grandparents being over the house a lot and how the grandmother naturally took over cooking and caring for the children reminded me of own Granny and Granda. That part pulled me into the story emotionally. As the story progressed I especially enjoyed learning about San Francisco, a place I've always wanted to visit. Since the author immigrated there, I believe she gave me a true image of it. I really found The Skye in June engaging and would like to talk to the author. When you coming home, hen? Doris K, Glasgow, Scotland

I LOVED this book so much. It is very well written and excellent for my English. I couldn't put it down and stayed up late reading.  It was as though I was near June all the time. I could hear her replying to my endless questions such as wanting to hear all those Scottish words that I discovered. They made me giggle. I wanted to know more about the religious conflicts going on in Scotland in those days and how June could live with such strict ways her father brought her up by. Tears came to my eyes on several occasions. I did not find the book funny like perhaps some other readers would. I was inhibited by June's sorrows and loneliness. Luckily she also had a lot of cheerfulness, was full of resources and could be a mischief. - Francoise, Paris France

J. Ahern captivates the reader's interest in the first chapter. As a woman you feel the main character's pain, apprehension and lonelinesss as the birthing process progresses. You are held in suspense and this motivates you to keep reading to find the treasured outcome. The reader becomes a member of the MacDonald Family, traveling with them through life's sorrows, tragedies and joys. The Catholic Scottish background was an important element. The history of Scottish people is intertwined in the storyline making an informative read.  Learning unique Scottish terms and special holidays was a special delight. The book taught me to appreciate people who are different and brave enough to share their true being and special gifts. It ended too soon. Hopefully there will be a sequel.  - Pamela B, Caro, MI

This is a wonderful story of a woman's journey in life and shows the impact she has on her daughters. It is an exciting read that grips the readers' attention from the start to the past pages. This novel is certainly a work of art on the issues of Scottish culture and language. The author is very skillful at her descriptions of the setting thus making this novel vivid and real. The colloquialism throughout the story adds to the plot and ample cultural aspects enrich the story. It caters to everyone loving family stories, mystery and learning about the spiritual world. It's a worth read and a great gift for all book lovers. Lia Metal, author, Greece - Complete book review

Everyone wants to hit the lottery and The Skye in June has accomplished it as J. Ahern weaves us through life in a Catholic school and Scottish family living in Eureka Valley (now known as The Castro.)  Her eye for detail lets us experience what it was like and how to remain calm between the storms. The struggle to remain independent and true to oneself is the strength of this wonderful read. - Karen A, Eureka Valley, San Francisco, CA 

"The Skye in June" was difficult for me to read at first because I do not enjoy stories with a religious them and also, the main character June's life and my life had similar parallels. However, the more I read, the more I learned and became comfortable with the story. Many emotions were stirred up in me. I kept reminding myself that this is how people lived and thought in the 1950 & 60's, and things that were shameful then, are commonly accepted now. In my mind, if a story does not cause an emotional response then it is not worth reading. This story is definitely worth reading. Stephanie, New Hazelton, Canada. Goodreads.com reader

I have to tell you, I picked up your book the other day and LOVED IT. I couldn't put it down! I read 250 pages in one sitting and didn't want it to end.  I am truly impressed. Jean, West Palm Beach, Fl 

The Skye in June is a unique story of June MacDonald born in Scotland in the 1950's. She is not the average girl; June has "visions" and "dreams" that she does not understand and of which her father is not happy with saying she's doomed to hell and her mother is afraid of them. Ms. Ahern blends Scottish tradition in Catholicism with a new twist. A challenge to the traditional religious beliefs, with that of psychic ability and a touch of witchraft. She brings about family loyalty and love in a fascinating memorable story. I look forward to more from this talented author. - Sheri W, Sandwich, Il

I read truly enjoyed J. Ahern's novel. The insight of the struggles 
that Catholics suffered after World War II in Glasgow, Scotland
was informative.  The flavor of her descriptions drew me into the
raw emotions of the MacDonald family and their relatives.  I  enjoyed the Glaswegian burr of their dialogue. But the best part  was the immigration to San Francisco and all the complexities of that  adaption with such unique characters.  I also grew up in San Francisco and it thrilled me to go down memory lane of the  1950's & 1960's. I laughed, I cried, I could not put the book down.  The only good thing about having a summer flu was that I had The  Skye in June in bed with me!! Can't wait for the sequel. MAC, Corte Madera, CA

Couldn't put it down and I am a reader, just loved it, hope there will be many more to follow. Was really interesting.  Loved reading about different places there in SF. - Gail, Delray Beach, Fl

I met this author at a book reading and bought her book. The Skye in June is such a thought-provoking, interesting, and kind of sad book. Actually it brought up a lot of emotions in me as I read it -- humor, frustration, anger, resignation, joy, sorrow -- are the ones that come to mind immediately.  I will probably think about it more  from time to time.  Lin, Pacifica CA

I read this book in three days. I just couldn't stop. The story compelled me, it never lagged, seemed to start and end at precise slices of life, so it didn't really begin, or end. It was just a revealed segment of life, holographic with history, personal issues sociological and metaphysical issues with deeply spiritual realities––very visual, visceral, heartfelt, beautiful and memorable. I just love the accuracy of life in SF in the 50's and 60's. I could relate because I was there! The places, the products, the TV shows, the dress, the conversations and figures of speech. I loved every word. I hope that people read this book are empowered in their own sense of themselves. - Patricia, Santa Rosa, CA

Intriguing, captivating. Hard to put down. J. Ahern did an exceptional job of drawing the reader into this family’s day-to-day life. She has the wonderful insight to keep you visually engaged and turning each page thirsting for more. At the end of the book you wonder will there be another and when? MF, SF, CA 

I absolutely loved this book. It's one of the best books I've read in a while. When's the sequel?  - Suzie, Pacifica, CA

What a wonderful story. I could hardly put it down! It reminded me so much of my family. The characters are so real to me; the sister fights and the Catholic nuns. I can't wait for the sequel.  - Lavonne, San Francisco, CA

Submit your review and it can appear here. Contact us