2024 is going to be an interesting year from a reading perspective! The literary world is brimming with anticipation for the release of lots of exciting new fiction. From established authors to promising debutants, it promises to be a year filled with captivating stories, diverse voices, and unforgettable characters.

Here’s a heads-up on some of the upcoming releases that are already generating a buzz! Many of the authors below are Irish, born and raised, and some have chosen to make the land of saints and scholars their home. Supporting our authors is a fantastic way to ensure that our legacy of producing fantastic novels and prose continues to live on for future generations to enjoy!

 

Long Island by Colm Tóibín

Release Date: 23rd May

Colm Tóibín is the critically acclaimed author of eleven novels, including "Brooklyn," "The Master," and "Nora Webster." A recipient of numerous awards, including the Costa Book Award and the Los Angeles Times Book Prize, Tóibín is renowned for his exquisite prose and profound storytelling. "Long Island" is a testament to his skill as a writer, offering readers a moving and intense exploration of one woman's journey to rediscover herself amidst the complexities of love and longing.

In the book, Colm Tóibín reunites readers with Eilis Lacey, the beloved heroine of "Brooklyn," two decades later. Living with her husband, Tony Fiorello, and their children in Long Island, Eilis finds herself confronted with a shocking revelation that propels her back to Ireland, forcing her to re-evaluate her past choices and confront the longings she thought she had left behind.

"Long Island" explores themes of secrecy, misunderstanding, and love as Eilis navigates the complexities of her life in 1970s America. Set against the backdrop of a close-knit Italian American family, Tóibín skillfully depicts Eilis's internal struggles and the bonds that tie her to her homeland. As she grapples with the consequences of her actions, Eilis discovers a newfound resilience and strength, ultimately finding solace in the people and places she thought she would never see again.

There probably isn’t a family in Ireland that hasn’t endured separation and sadness through emigration, along with the freedom and independence that moving countries also offers. So the themes, as well as the characters in this story will feel very familiar to many readers.

 

Glorious Exploits by Ferdia Lennon

Release Date: 18th January

If you want to escape to a completely different setting, Ferdia Lennon's "Glorious Exploits" transports readers to 412 BC Athens, offering a gripping narrative set against the backdrop of war and art. Lampo and Gelon, two potters, embark on a daring mission to stage a performance of Euripides' "Medea" in a quarry filled with Athenian prisoners.

As alliances blur and ambitions collide, the novel explores themes of brotherhood, war, and the enduring power of art. That’s quite a lot to cover in one book but this one makes for compulsive reading……

 

Wild Houses by Colin Barrett

Release Date: 25th January

 

Colin Barrett's "Wild Houses" takes readers to the heart of Ballina, where a feud between a small-time dealer and fraternal enforcers escalates into violence. Against this backdrop, characters like Dev and Nicky navigate a world on the brink of chaos, offering a beautifully crafted exploration of friendship, love, and resilience. A story of our times, that gives an inside view on difficult relationships in difficult times.

 

The Playdate by Clara Dillon

Release Date: 22nd February

 

Clara Dillon's "The Playdate" immerses readers in the complexities of motherhood and social dynamics. When a simple misunderstanding between two mothers leads to a catastrophic event, Sara finds herself entangled in a web of suspicion and betrayal. The novel delves into the lengths a mother will go to protect her child, even as allegiances shift, and secrets unravel.

 

The Hunter by Tana French

Release Date: 7th March

 

Tana French's "The Hunter" transports readers to a blazing summer in a village where two men arrive, bringing trouble in their wake. Cal Hooper, a former detective seeking peace, finds himself entangled in a web of deception and revenge when one of the men turns out to be the father of a teenager he cares deeply about. A book full of intrigue, and a great read to look forward to.

 

Free Therapy by Rebecca Ivory

Release Date: 14th March

 

Rebecca Ivory's "Free Therapy" offers a poignant exploration of desire and self-discovery through interconnected stories. From teenage competition to marital strife, the characters grapple with the complexities of modern life, revealing the vulnerabilities that lie beneath their facades.

 

Girl in the Making by Anna Fitzgerald

Release Date: 21st March

 

Anna Fitzgerald's "Girl in the Making" follows Jean Kennedy, a perceptive girl navigating the challenges of suburban Dublin in the 1970s and '80s. Through Jean's voice, the novel captures the dreams and terrors of girlhood in a world fraught with hypocrisy and danger.

 

Quickly, While They Still Have Horses by Jan Carson

Release Date: 4th April

 

Jan Carson's "Quickly, While They Still Have Horses" offers a collection of sixteen stories that sparkle with wit and imagination. From distracted parents to rumour-spreading chaos, Carson's narratives explore the quirks and foibles of human nature with warmth and compassion.

 

My Favourite Mistake by Marian Keyes

Release Date: 11th April

 

Marian Keyes' "My Favourite Mistake" introduces readers to Anna Walsh, whose dream life in New York comes crashing down, leading her on a journey of self-discovery in the tiny town of Maumtully. With her trademark humour and insight, Keyes delivers a poignant tale of love, loss, and second chances. Marian is as prolific as she is popular, and this book will be on the shelves in time for your summer holidays; pop it in the suitcase!

 

The Boy Next Door by Jenny Ireland

Release Date: 11th April

 

Jenny Ireland's "The Boy Next Door" explores the complexities of friendship and love as childhood friends Fin and Molly navigate the challenges of adolescence. Set against the backdrop of small-town life, the novel offers a heartfelt portrayal of growing up and finding oneself.

 

Earth by John Boyne

Release Date: 2nd May

 

John Boyne's "Earth" delves into the complexities of identity and justice as protagonist Evan Keogh grapples with the aftermath of a trial that threatens to unravel his life. With his usual masterful storytelling, Boyne navigates themes of guilt, redemption, and the search for truth in a world fraught with moral ambiguity.

 

When We Were Silent by Fiona McPhillips

Release Date: 2nd May

 

Fiona McPhillips' "When We Were Silent" offers a gripping tale of intrigue and betrayal set against the backdrop of Dublin's elite private school scene; an urban bubble that both protects and entraps the students.

As secrets unravel and allegiances are tested, protagonist Lou Manson must confront her past and uncover the truth before it's too late.

 

Reality Check by Vicki Notaro

Release Date: 9th May

 

If you’re looking for a laugh, check out Vicki Notaro's "Reality Check" which delves into the world of social media and celebrity culture, offering a satirical take on fame and fortune. With sharp wit and keen observation, Notaro explores the lengths people will go to in pursuit of validation and recognition in the digital age.

 

These are just a few of the fiction books and writers to watch out for in 2024. With an eclectic mix of genres, styles, and voices, there's something for every reader to discover and enjoy in the coming year. Irish authors are once again coming out swinging, as we continue to punch well above our weight in the literary domain. So mark your calendars, reserve your copies, and get ready to embark on a literary journey like no other.

 

And don’t forget to bookmark this page as we’ll be updating it throughout the year!