Nobody writes an Irish historical fiction novel like Emily Hourican
As we get closer to the autumn months, our reading list is filling up more than ever. There are dozens of new books being released in the coming months, but there’s one Irish novel I cannot wait to sink my teeth into.
Emily Hourican has long been one of my favourite historical fiction authors, and her upcoming release, A House in Winter, is one of my most anticipated releases of the year.
Set in January 1965, A House in Winter tells the story of the visit of Princess Margaret and Lord Snowden to his sister’s home in Abbeyleix, Ireland, when they faced local opposition and IRA petrol bomb attacks that confined them, without electricity, for 48 fraught hours. As well as the conflict outside the walls, there’s plenty within, with Margaret’s difficult mother-in-law gleefully contributing to her disintegrating marriage.
Meanwhile, in the nearby village, local woman Cait has struggles of her own, unable to escape family responsibilities and small-town life.
Inspired by true events, A House in Winter has been described as “an atmospheric and richly observed novel about duty, marriage and the different forms of captivity.”
If you’re looking for an Irish novel you won’t be able to put down with history, heart and an addictive plot, then this is the book for you.
This is one Irish novel you need to put on your reading list in September. Louise O’Neill has described this novel as “atmospheric, evocative and beautifully told,” which makes us even more excited.
A House in Winter will be published on September 3rd.
