Ballyhornan author Roisin in line for prestigious award

Ballyhornan author Roisin in line for prestigious award

22 January 2025

A BALLYHORNAN author has been shortlisted for a prestigious book award.

Roisin Maguire’s novel Night Swimmers is one of four books shortlisted for the annual Kate O’Brien Award, which celebrates new Irish writing by a female author.

The winner will be announced as part of the 41st annual Limerick Literary Festival next month, and will be awarded a €2,000 cash prize.

Roisin, who has been a successful short story writer for many years, had her debut novel published last year, which uses the Covid-19 pandemic as a back to address universal themes of grief, recovery, guilt and connection.

The novel is set in the fictional village of Ballybrady, but is based on Ballyhornan, and those who read the book may pick up on references to the village.

Speaking about being shortlisted, Roisin said: “It means a lot. I’ve been aware of this award for many years, so it’s very validating.”

She believes the novel’s exploration of disability and the capability for healing in times of crisis appealed to the judges. 

Roisin is also a hypnotherapist based in Downpatrick helping those who suffer from depression and anxiety, and believes both of her pursuits complement each other as they both explore the unpredictability of people. 

Shortlisting judge Vivienne McKechnie commented on the high standard of all this year’s submissions to the Kate O’Brien Award. 

“It is wonderful to see such talent emerging and to read the excellent debut novels and short stories produced by Irish female writers. 

“It was a difficult task to come up with a shortlist and I would like to congratulate all 16 writers for well-written, thought-provoking books on a wide range of themes.” 

She added: “We look forward to a lively discussion with the shortlisted authors at the Festival in a special event on Sunday, February 23. This is an opportunity to meet these writers at the beginning of their careers and to listen to their stories.”

The judges for this year’s award are committee member Marie Hackett, poet and committee member Vivienne McKechnie, writer and children’s book buyer for Kenny’s Bookshop Grainne O’Brien, Director of Narrative 4 James Lawlor and novelist Dan Mooney.

Roisin’s novel will be available to buy in paperback from next month.