“Ever the Twain Shall Meet” by Michael Connolly
Set against the turbulent backdrop of 1930s and 1940s Maine and America, local Portland author Michael C. Connolly’s latest novel takes readers on a journey of love, survival, and cultural clashes. The story of the Yankee Twitchells and the Irish Folans explores whether Rudyard Kipling’s famous words—“East is East, and West is West, and never the twain shall meet”—hold true. As these two families face obstacles with respect, determination, and hope, Connolly paints a vivid portrait of Portland’s Irish heritage and the challenges of the era. Praised for its engaging narrative and rich local history, Ever The Twain Shall Meet is more than a love story—it’s a message for our times. Dive into this captivating tale that reminds us we can bridge divides through understanding and perseverance.
Critics are calling it “a deeply moving novel” and “vibrant, colorful, and engaging.” Connolly once again captures the essence of Maine’s past while offering reflections for today’s world.
$19.95
In stock
Is it possible that Rudyard Kipling was correct when he penned the famous words, “East is East, and West is West, and never the twain shall meet“?
In this historical novel, a Maine survival story, two opposites do attract. Singly and together, they confront Kipling’s skeptical viewpoint. Against the backdrop of Maine and America in the 1930s and 1940s, the Yankee Twitchells and the Irish Folans forge their own paths forward. They overcome significant obstacles and challenges by the power of their respect, toleration, and determination. We seek hope, we seek love; combine the two, as in this love story, and you understand Norma and Mike. In our current time of discord and partisanship, like them we can surely do better.
“Connolly draws fascinating links between Maine and the world at large while weaving together a thoroughly readable tale of murder, marriage, and vivid local life in Portland and beyond in the first half of the 20th century.” -Eric C. Brown, Ph.D., Executive Director, Maine Irish Heritage Center
“It is a deeply moving novel and the characters will earn a place in readers’ hearts. Connolly is a stylistic storyteller and it was a real treat to read the novel.” -Severin Beliveau, Portland Attorney and son of Albert Beliveau
“Vibrant, colorful and engaging. Michael Connolly is a master at describing the Irish heritage and culture of 1930s Portland! Ever The Twain Shall Meet is a wonderful read!” -Connie Brennan, wife of Governor Joe Brennan and Munjoy Hill