The Great Dempseys

The Great Dempseys is a gorgeously written, multi-layered novel that succeeds on every level—as a romance, a family saga, a social critique, and a deeply moving character study. It’s no surprise this book has taken home multiple literary awards; it’s intelligent, heartfelt, and utterly gripping. For readers who enjoy The Summer I Turned Pretty, Little Fires Everywhere, or The Disreputable History of Frankie Landau-Banks, this novel will feel like home—full of beauty, heartbreak, and the uncomfortable truths that come with growing up and finding one’s voice amid powerful legacies. Brianna MacMahon has not just written a book—she’s launched a series with the emotional depth and literary integrity to span generations. And this is only the beginning.

Romance, especially between teens, can be overpowering between first loves. Audrey Nielsen and Bobby Dempsey have found a bond that only strengthens as time progresses. Bobby is the heir apparent to a fortune, whereas Audrey attends the same prestigious private high school on a scholarship. Both come from different worlds, which causes the family's concerns. Life would be so much easier for both if their upbringing were similar. From age 15 into their senior year, everything seems golden until dark family secrets bubble to the surface, which will likely cause the Dempsey dynasty to crumple and impact Audrey and Bobby's future together. This is a fantastic teenage romance that needs to be savored. All characters are well developed, so you genuinely believe their emotions as depicted—a great read to be added to your home library.

Audrey is a fiercely relatable protagonist. I love that it is set in Upper East Side during the 70-80s. If you’re looking for a story that blends heartfelt romance with real-life challenges, The Great Dempseys is the book for you. Highly recommended for anyone who loves compelling characters and stories that linger long after the final chapter!

Ah forbidden love and abusive parents. Bobby’s from one of those upper crust type of families (the Great Dempseys), Audrey’s attending their exclusive private school on scholarship. They meet, become friends, then more…and then Mr Dempsey shows up. And rich dad doesn’t approve. And we begin to see the ugliness behind the veneer. The secrets Bobby has to hide - even from his mother. This was a well-executed storyline with sweet main characters trying to find their way to the future at the same time dealing with the shadows from their past.

I just finished The Great Dempseys by Brianna MacMahon, and let me tell you—this book delivers. Family drama? Check. Class tension? Check. A first love that has you internally screaming just kiss already? Oh, absolutely. Set in 1970s New York, it gives all the nostalgic, cinematic vibes while pulling you deep into Audrey and Bobby’s complicated, messy, and totally addictive world. The writing flows effortlessly, making it one of those books where you look up and realize you've been reading for three hours straight. The characters feel real—like the kind you could argue with over coffee—and the story had me fully invested from start to finish. If you love a coming-of-age romance with depth, secrets, and that impossible to put down feeling, this one’s for you!

The Great Dempseys by Brianna MacMahon is a captivating romantic coming-of-age story filled with drama, suspense, and rich character development. The book follows Audrey Nielsen, a scholarship student at an elite private high school, as she navigates a complex relationship with Bobby Dempsey, the heir to a powerful family fortune. Their love story, set against the backdrop of ambition, privilege, and family expectations, is both heartwarming and heartbreaking. The author beautifully explores themes of identity, family secrets, and class differences, with a perfect blend of romance and social commentary. Audrey and Bobby's journey is one of self-discovery, sacrifice, and emotional growth, making this a must-read for fans of new adult fiction.

This was such a great read! The character and world-building are really well done, and you get to follow Audrey and Bobby through all the ups and downs of their lives in a way that feels so relatable. There are plenty of emotional moments, and I found myself rooting for their young love, even when the challenges felt overwhelming. The writing is polished and flows effortlessly, making it an absolute joy to read. It’s a beautiful mix of romance and a coming-of-age story that I thoroughly enjoyed.

Bobby and Audrey are a match made in heaven. But then it was a match from hell due to their families. Their love is Romeo and Juliet. This teen romance is a page turner. Great book.

MacMahon’s prose strikes a delicate balance between romance and social commentary, offering a rich exploration of privilege, identity, and the way societal structures shape personal lives. The narrative shines in its ability to blend heartfelt emotions with sharp observations about class and family dynamics. The tension between the allure of wealth and the struggles of personal growth is palpable throughout, creating a layered story that is both engaging and thought-provoking.

"The Great Dempseys" by Brianna MacMahon is a compelling coming-of-age romance set in the late 1970s. The novel follows Audrey Nielsen, a scholarship student from a working-class family, as she navigates the elite world of Great Gray private school in New York. There, she meets Bobby Dempsey, heir to a vast corporate empire, and their relationship blossoms despite their differing backgrounds. McMahon skilfully portrays the complexities of young love, societal expectations, and personal growth. Audrey's relatable apprehensions and Bobby's struggle with familial obligations are depicted with depth and authenticity. The narrative spans several years, allowing readers to witness the characters' development and the evolution of their relationship. Overall, "The Great Dempseys" is a well-crafted narrative that explores themes of love, privilege, and self-discovery, making it a recommended read for fans of romance and coming-of-age stories.