I love a cozy read, especially a book set in Ireland with heartwarming themes, just perfect for a Maeve Binchy fan like me.
Today, I'm delighted to introduce you to Patricia Scanlan, the #1 internationally bestselling author, and her newest novel about the complexities of lifelong friendship.
I'm also thrilled to offer you an opportunity to win a copy of A Time For Friends, graciously offered by Atria Books (a division of Simon & Schuster) as a prize for one of Irish American Mom's readers.
But before I share details of how to enter this little giveaway, let's first explore the comforting themes of this new Irish novel.
Table of Contents
A Time For Friends
When are the boundaries of friendship pushed too far, and when is it time to stop flying over oceans for someone who wouldn’t jump over a puddle for you?
There comes a time when Hilary Hammond has to make that call.
Hilary and Colette O’Mahony have been friends since childhood, but when irrepressible Jonathan Harpur breezes into Hilary’s life and goes into business with her, Colette is not pleased.
After their first encounter, Colette thinks he’s a “pushy upstart” while he thinks she’s “a snobby little diva.” And so the battle lines are drawn—and Hilary is square in the middle.
But as the years roll by and each of them is faced with difficult times and tough decisions, one thing is clear: to have a friend you must be a friend.
About The Author: Patricia Scanlan
Patricia Scanlan is the author of Forgive and Forget, Happy Ever After, and Love and Marriage, all international bestsellers. Her books have sold worldwide and have been translated into many languages.
Patricia is the series editor and a contributing author to the Open Door series. She also teaches creative writing to second-level students and is involved in adult literacy programs. She lives in Dublin.
International Praise for Patricia's Writing
Praise for Patricia's writing abounds. Here are some words of commendation worthy of sharing....
“There’s something wonderfully enjoyable about Scanlan’s books, which somehow manage to be deliciously escapist and grounded in real, recognisable ordinary life at the same time.”
~ The Irish Independent
“Utterly magical and wonderful...
.... warmth and compassion shine through”
~ Marian Keyes, bestselling author of The Woman Who Stole My Life
“Like being enfolded in a hug from the great writer herself:
warm, comforting and full of love”
~ Cathy Kelly, author of It Started in Paris
“There can be little doubt that Patricia Scanlan
is the prolific queen of contemporary Irish popular fiction”
~Sunday Times
“There is a heartbreaking authenticity in her observations”
~ Irish Times
The Giveaway
To enter just leave a comment on this blog post by noon on Wednesday, October 28th, 2015.
Any comment will do. What you write does not affect your chance of winning, but if you need inspiration for your entry why not tell us about your favorite Irish book or author.
A winning comment will be chosen randomly. Remember to leave your e-mail so that I can contact you should you win. Your e-mail won’t be published or shared, just used to contact our lucky contestant.
Winners will be announced on Wednesday October 28th, 2015, at the bottom of this blog post.
You may check out Irish American Mom’s complete terms and conditions for sweepstakes entries by clicking here.
A big thank you to Atria Publishing for sponsoring this wonderful prize.
Winner Chosen
Good news. Our winner have been chosen using the random “Pick Giveaway Winner” WordPress plug-in.
Congratulations to …..
Annetje
I’ll send you a quick e-mail, Annetje, to let you know you are our prize winner.
Thanks to everyone who joined in and entered this little giveaway.
And a big thank you to Atria Publishing for sponsoring this wonderful prize and for introducing Patricia Scanlan's writing.
Other Books Set
If you're interested in other books set in Ireland or featuring the Irish in America, here are a few more recommendations to check out...
Dermot O'Hara Detective Series
Kathryn Guare - Irish American Author
Thanks for following my recipes and ramblings.
Slán agus beannacht,
(Goodbye and blessings)
Mairéad -Irish American Mom
Pronunciation - slawn ah-gus ban-ock-th
Mairéad - rhymes with parade
If you enjoyed this post here are some other stories and tributes you might enjoy.
Eulogy For An Irish American Mother
Between The Jigs And The Reels
Cheryl Barker
Would love to read this book set in Ireland, Mairead. Thanks for the giveaway!
Andrea Graves
Sounds like a wonderful story! I'd love to read this novel.
Pat Fordyce
I would love to read this book......I'm a huge Maeve Binchey fan, I think one of my favorites was Light a Penny Candle!
Ann Docherty
I do miss Maeve Binchy! Patricia Scanlan may fill the void. 🙂
Mairéad
Happy Thursday 🙂
JB Green
This one looks really good, thanks for the opportunity!!
Mary Sullivan
Sounds like a great book. I can't wait to read it. 🙂
Kim
I would love a new read
Laura
I would love to win this book and possibly use it for my pick for my book club. We always do a theme and I'd love to do an Irish theme!!!
Kelly
I love reading and what better reads than those set in Ireland. Thank you for the opportunity for a chance to win what sounds like a really great book! And...I love your salutations- Slán agus beannacht,
Kelly
Mary
Would really like to read this book,
karen fratantaro
I love Ireland and would love to read this book.
Lene Tereyla
I'd love to try a new author, especially someone who writes of relationships between women. Thanks for the opportunity to enter to win the book!
Diane Adams
The book sounds wonderful and I love the cover!
Lynda Leahy Stallworth
I'm looking forward to reading this book. Love so many Irish storytellers: Maeve Binchy, Nuala 0'Faolain, William Trevor, Brendan O'Carroll, Frank Delaney (just to name a few)!
Sheila McTeague
I'm an avid reader. I'm always looking for stories especially from authors that have a background of creative writing since I do a bit of writing myself. I like stories of friendship. They always give hope. And reading about Ireland makes me think of wanting to go back.
Barbara Alldis
Would love to read this book. I am an avid reader and like so many others really enjoyed Maeve Binchy.
Will have to keep my eye out for Patricia Scanlan in the future. Hope she is picked up by our public libraries.
Carla Moser
I'd love to win this book. It sounds like a good read.
Sandra Newman
Looks like a great read.
Emer
My favourite author was and always will be Maeve Binchy xx
claire fullerton
Put my hat in the ring for this giveaway!
Claudia
I would love to read this novel!
Deborah Ogden
Great giveaway! Love anything Irish
Krystal
I would love to win a copy of your novel A Time For Friends. Thank you.
Kay Cleere
Maeve Binchy was my favourite author and now that sadly she has passed on, my niece introduced me to Patricia Scanlan. Her books are in the same vein as Maeve Binchy and I am reading one of her books at the moment - Divided Loyalties.
Marla
I'd love to read this book!
Renee Rousseau
A trip to Ireland is on my bucket list. I'm sure reading "A Time for Friends" would move it up the list!
Anne
With winter coming, having a good book(s) is just what I need. A book set in Ireland is the best way to spend some time by the fire as the snow flies here in New England. Thank you for the sweepstakes opportunity!
Maggie Torcello
I am not looking forward to winter, but reading a good book mames it more bearable 🙂
Maura
I love books that are set in Ireland.. Brings me back home! Looks like a great read!
Terri
This would be a great read for a long, cold Canadian winter!
Barb
I would love to read this author. She sounds great and I enjoy reading all books set in Ireland. It's the next best thing to traveling there in person. Taking a trip in your imagination!
aislingH
I've been hoping to get into a nice read when I start to light my fireplace.. this is it.
Elaine
I have learned over the years just how valuable friendships are. I would love the opportunity to read this book.
Carole
I am a big fan of Patrician Scanlon's work, and have been trying to purchase them here in the US without success. Can't wait to read her latest!
Sheryl Garcia
I wish all books from these wonderful Irish authors were readily available here!
LindaPiotrowski
I'm learning more and more about Ireland and my Irish heritage from your website. Thanks for the giveaway and your website.
Christine Brennan
If she is like Maeve Binchy I am in!
Rhonda
Perfect book for me ?
JJT
Sounds great!
Cassandra Early
Will put all aside to read a Irish Book. Then will need to get a bowl of popcorn to have with it.
Gina
My favorite Irish author is Oscar Wilde.
maggie
I have all of your books and have enjoyed everyone of them and am sure will enjoy this one.
Margie
Would love to read this book.
Maureen N.
Would love to win the book. However, will try to get it anyway. My friend and I have been friends since we were 12 years old, and both pretty well on now! Nothing like a heart-to-heart with a treasured friend.
Thank you for the introduction to this writer.
Maureen
Barbara Quinlan
Sounds great I have not read a Patricia Scanlon in a long time.
Mary Miner
Friendship that last through the years is cherished in one's heart a lifetime.
John Ongena
sounds like a great read for a cold evening and a little rehab!!!
Marjorie toomey west
Sounds like a great book to share with friends and book club!
Annetje
Would be great to win the book!