Fans who, like us, were saddened by Maeve Binchy’s death this summer, can take solace in the fact that she had a finished novel waiting in the wings. Her American publisher, Knopf, has scheduled it for release in February (UK readers can get their fix in November). The Telegraph reports that it is dedicated to her husband of 35 years: “To Gordon—who makes life great every single day.”
The description sounds like classic Binchy:
Stoneyville is a small town on the coast of Ireland where all the families know each other. When Chicky decides to take an old decaying mansion, Stone House, and turn it into a restful place for a holiday by the sea, the town thinks she is crazy. She is helped by Rigger (a bad boy turned good who is handy around the place) and her niece Orla (a whiz at business). Finally the first week of paying guests arrive: John, the American movie star thinks he has arrived incognito; Winnie and Lillian, forced into taking a holiday together; Nuala and Henry, husband and wife , both doctors who have been shaken by seeing too much death; Anders, the Swedish boy, hates his father’s business, but has a real talent for music; Miss Nell Howe, a retired school teacher, who criticizes everything and leaves a day early, much to everyone’s relief; the Walls who have entered in 200 contests (and won everything from a microwave oven to velvet curtains, including the week at Stone House); and Freda, the psychic who is afraid of her own visions. You will laugh and cry as you spend the week with this odd group who share their secrets and might even have some of their dreams come true.
Will you read it?
I was so sorry to hear about Maeve Binchy’s passing…I enjoyed her books and will be looking forward to reading A Week in Winter.
Cannot wait to read this. Unfortunately, must wait until Feb. 2013 but I will purchase as soon as it is available. Love all Maeve’s books that I have read. She is truly missed by many. Lovely woman.
Love Maeve’s writing style and human touch. Always look forward to her next book release. I’ll wait for this one in February with sadness in my heart, as it will be the last. You will be missed by many, Maeve!!!!
i was first introduced to Mave Binchy by “Evening Classes” and fell in love with her books. I was very saddened when I heard of her passing, but when I need a fix with one of her books, I will re-read one of my favorites. I am anxiously waiting for the release of her new book in Feb 2013. Thanks for all the memories Maeve Binchy! and God Bless.
I just posted the announcement of A Week in Winter on my Facebook page before I read your comment. My comment to the share is almost identical to your comment. We Maeve Binchy book lovers must think alike
Maeve will always be my favourite author, I am waiting for ‘A Week In Winter to’ arrive in the mail.
Will I read it? Of course I will read it! With gratitude for all the hours of pleasure Maeve Binchy gave me over the years! I look forward to this last of her books!! Thank you Maeve for the hours of leisure you have given me (and many others!).
Hers ,,Tara Road,, was my first book on english and it was read at one breath.Lovely writer!
I’ve had the pleasure of reading every book written by this wonderful writer. Felt ever so sad to hear of her passing but huge relief to hear of a last book. I’ll certainly miss your book Maeve Binchy.
I still can’t write about Maeve’s passing without getting choked up. Her books have always meant so very much to me. I carry each like a treasure.
cant wait to read maeve new book have got everyone for her books. Iwill miss her may she RIP.
Maeve took me away so many times to a land i hope
to visit! Thank you Meave, may you rest in peace. Love
to your family,i will read this new book with a heavy heart.
Sincerely Virginia
iam sad that my favorite author has passed also that i have to waite to feb. to read a week in winter. sad
Can’t wait to read this book…sad to hear of Ms. Binchey passing. She was one of my favorite authors.
When will Canadians be able to download this masterpiece?
RIP my favourite author. Gin
Maeve’s books always made you feel like you were part of the story. I always wanted to meet the people she wrote about. Each and every one of her stories are a gift to her readers. I will truly miss her writing, and look forward to purchasing her last book to add to my collection. It too will be read, and read again and again. Thank you Maeve, for all your wonderful gifts.
Please tell me where and when I can purchase Ms. Binhcy last book…I’ve been a loyal fan for a long time and have read everything she has written…
May she rest in peace and I’m so glad God allow me to be introduced to her books…
Yes, I can’t wait to read this latest one by Maeve Binchy. Didn’t know she died this year. Her books are what I call ‘good reading with the cat, tea and a blankie’ novels. Patsy
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Maeve Binchy was unique!!! There aren’t adequate words to describe her talent and its meaning in my life! If I’m ever blue or upset in some way, all I need is to grab up one of my books by her. I have them all!