THIS GIVEAWAY IS NOW CLOSED.
The Irish have produced a good many of the English language’s best writers: Joyce, Wilde, Yeats, Shaw…the list goes on. In the late twentieth and early twenty-first century, Irish women authors have really come into their own, both in popular and critical opinion. Think Maeve Binchy, Sheila O’Flanagan and Marian Keyes. Keyes is well known as a very smart, funny and warm Irish women’s fiction author with a flair for drawing compelling characters and addictive, feel-good plots. Her new novel, The Brightest Star in the Sky, will be released on November 7, 2009.
So how would you like to read it before it’s even released in stores?
It sounds impossible, but our generous partners at Penguin have offered us fifteen review copies of Keyes’ new novel to give away to fifteen lucky urbanmoms.ca members! Review copies are pretty much exactly what you’d think – they’re versions of soon-to-be-released books that are sent to reviewers, so they can read the book and go to press with their reviews on the book’s release date. Review copies are just like “real” books – they’re very well done and contain the exact text of the actual book, except that they’re produced in paperback and they’re available before the book even comes out in stores!
So then: who wants to win one of our fifteen review copies of Marian Keyes’ The Brightest Star in the Sky? To enter, all you need to do is enter a comment below – tell us why you love Irish women’s novels and we’ll enter your name in our draw. But remember, you need to be an urbanmoms.ca member to be eligible to win, so please sign in to UM when you comment. Not a member yet? Join now, it’s easy and free. If you’d like to find out more about Penguin, click here.
Critical Acclaim for Marian Keyes:
A writer who pips Maeve Binchy in Irish bestseller lists, Marian Keyes is chick lit’s class act.’
The Independent
‘There’s no question that she’s hot property’
Heat
‘The reigning queen of romantic fiction’
The Times
‘The doyenne of satire’
Daily Mail
‘Marian Keyes is the queen of feel-good fiction…the hottest young female writer in Britain and the voice of a generation’
Mirror
‘Her writing sparkles and the world is a better place for her books’
Irish Tatler
Book Description:
At 66 Star Street in Dublin someone is watching over the lives of the people living in its flats. But no one is aware of it–yet… One of them is ready to take the plunge and fall in love; another is torn between two very different lovers. For some, secrets they want to stay buried will come to light and for others, the unveiling of those secrets will have tragic consequences. Fate is on its way to Star Street, bringing with it love and tragedy, friendship and heartbreak, and the power to change their lives in the most unexpected of ways…
Marian Keyes is the international bestselling author of Watermelon, Lucy Sullivan is Getting Married, Rachel’s Holiday, Last Chance Saloon, Sushi for Beginners, Angels, and, most recently The Other Side of the Story, a Sunday Times Number One Bestseller. She is published in twenty-nine different languages. A collection of her journalism, called Under the Duvet, is also available in Penguin. Marian lives in Dublin with her husband.
November 7, 2009│THE BRIGHTEST STAR IN THE SKY│By Marian Keyes
Penguin│ISBN 9780718149864│Hardcover; $34.00
Marian Keyes is one of my favorite authors!! I love her writing style, her wit, and her ability to create characters that leave you wanting more!! I have read all of her books, and loved every one of them!! Under the Duvet was an amazing collection and it literally had me laughing and crying every time I picked it up! She is a proud Irish woman, and it shows in all of her books! Someday I wish to visit the gorgeous land she writes about, and there is no doubt in my mind that the images her words have provoked in my imagination will be beyond accurate!! Cannot wait for this next great read!!!
Irish writers offer a different prespective on daily life – but one that is totally relatable and lovely. Thanks!
I love Irish women’s books because they take me away to a land I’ve never seen and let me escape from my dull existence.
Love the humor in Irish women’s books, as well as the fact that it’s much more “real” than the sickeningly sweet happily ever after you find in a lot of books.
After reading the description of this book I really want to read it. I am sure there will be a long wait list at the library for it. Having my own copy would be great and then I could pass it along to family and friends.
I’m a Canadian girl married to an Irish man. When I lived in Galway, I was continually in awe of the glamour and girly-ness of Irish women. They get dressed up to go out, they buy lovely accessories, they wear heels to go shopping. I loved it. Irish women’s novels capture some of that Irish woman mystique. It makes me long to be back and inspires me to get dressed up a bit when I go to Tim Horton’s for my morning coffee!!
I love Irish women writers because I am an Irish Woman and I can so easily get their sense of humour especially Marians. I have read all of her books and love them all. Watermelon was my favourite for a long time and I hope that this one will take its place on my number one spot! I adore the way the Irish women write, their turn of phrase and their sense of humour.
I love reading books by Irish women authors because I find their writing to be intelligent, descriptive and full of imagination. To me, they are the most downn to earth authors with a great story to tell.
Marian Keyes is one of my favourite authors. Irish women (especially Keyes) manage to write for women in ways that are both humourous and honest (and not condescending.) I can’t wait for her new book!
This sounds like a very good book. Thank you for the contest.
I have not read any of her books yet. But receiving this book will be a great start for me.
Thanks!
Would love to read this one.
This sounds like a great book to read. Would love to win it!
I have read a few of her other books and am really looking forward to reading this one, there is just something about the Irish culture that I love.
I love not only irish writers but british, scottish, etc. They write such witty humor, it’s much more entertaining than north american writing, they are my favorites for sure – would love to read this new novel – I gobble up boks so quickly I’m always looking for a new one!
I really enjoy reading books, that talk about real everyday life happening.
I will be honest. I have not read a book by an Irish female author. However, judging by the synopsis of this book, I would love to start. This book sounds like it has an intelligent and intricate plot, which is the best kind. It sounds like it will suck you right in and leave you turning page after page, unable to stop until the book is finished. The kind of book that makes you rush to complete everything else so you can get back to it, and pick it up to read even a few words every chance you get. So I would love to get a copy!!
I really enjoy reading her books, and I am looking forward to reading this one.
I have not read any of her books but have heard they are great.
A co-worker of mine is from Belfast and she loaned me a book written by Marian Keyes and I really enjoyed it and now we swap books back and forth. This would be great to win and I could surprise her that we have another book to share.
I’m a lover of books that take me back in the twentieth century ..just like i went back in time with them ..would be a honor to read this book if i was to win .thanks alot
I am Irish !! And A woman !!! Whoot Whoot !! Girl Power !!
The stories are real and funny. They don’t have the unreal drama and sappiness of many other women’s writers.
I love the folklore and everything. Make the novels very interesting and intriguing.
I LOVE Irish women writers because they are so clever, witty and their stories are easy to relate to! I love Marian Keyes!!!
This sounds like it would be a great read.
I love Irish women writers bc I am Irish and a woman! Also they have great senses of humor!
I would love to read this
I’m always interested by the Irish setting and lifestyle portrayed by Irish writers and I frequently find the viewpoints as illuminating as they are intriguing. I have read Marian Keyes before and love her work!
All her books are great but this one looks fab
The only woman Irish writer that I know of is Maeve Binchy. I have read a few of her books and enjoyed them a lot. I also like Irish folklore, leprechauns and fairies, that sort of thing.
I have yet to read a book by Marian Keyes but if I am a lucky winner this will be on top of my oh so little “me time” to do list. Thanks for a great giveaway!
stories about irish womaen showcase their strengh and determination…I love reading about characters like this!
Irish novels allways make me cry.
Irish women are lucky to come from such a beautiful country, full of inspiration.
Irish women are fantastic writers because of the beautiful inspiration of their country!
I love the books written by Irish Women as they are so entertaining. They are so good that i finish reading them so quickly!
I love Irish women writers as they come across as very smart, funny and warm when they write their novels. There is no one quite like our Irish women novels who weave novels with compelling plots and characters.
I love reading books by Irish women because i think they are so witty! The stories are so believable and laughable!
I love reading books written by Irish Women as they are very witty and almost make you feel like the story is happening at that moment.
I love Maeve Binchy. When I read her books, I feel like I’m transported to the place and time of the story. My sister has a collection of Marian Keyes’ books and I’ve been meaning to borrow them.
Hi,
I have never read a novel by an ‘Irish Author’
I can only assume that she has a different style than our North American writers and I am excited to give her book a try!~
( I rarely go out to buy a book, because I rarely have time to read one, but lately, I have been taking more ‘ME time’ after getting the 3 darlings off to bed at night and it would be great to relax with a book written by an author getting so many raves.)
Thanks so much for the offer to try and win one!!!
I love female Irish writers because they are so humurous and descriptive, they pull you into the story and into the landscape. Ive never actually been to ireland but ive traveled there so many times thru their stories
I love Irish women writers because their writing is beautifully descriptive. In person I love their accents and envy them because they come from a amazing country!!! Thanks for the great giveaway:)
I have never read this author before, but the book sounds great!
love this writer and her books, i just cannot put them down. Irish women writers have a way with humor that I also don’t find in other novels. Sounds like a great book to read! Can’t wait to read it!
i love irish women authors because they give great descriptions of the country and the landscape.
I have some of Maeve Binchy’s books in my library(my husband and i both read a lot and keep some of the better books).I would love to read this book and see maybe add it to our collection.
Why I love Irish women’s novels.
I love Irish women’s novels because they are more real and true to life than other novels. I don’t swoon in the presence of a man like in American novels, I’d be more likely to pick up a man at a bar when I was way too drunk. Irish women writers have a way with humor that I also don’t find in other novels. They can take the most heart wrenching situations and find the humour in them. I have read all of Marian Keyes novels and was waiting with baited breath for her to write a new one. I can’t wait to read the newest edition to her collection. Please send me a copy!
Thanks,
Cathy Mahar
OMG what a great give away. I hope I am one of the lucky few. I have read a couple of Marian Keyes books and enjoyed every last word. She is one of the names I look for when book shopping.
I love Irish women’s novels because of their wit and ability to make laugh!
I have always read book by Irish women writers. I have always wanted to visit Ireland and am fascinated by a lot of the old traditions and culture. (and yes, the ghost stories too)
I LOVE Marian Keyes. I find many of the female Irish authors have a wonderful way of presenting and developing their characters. They are also very witty. Their stories are so rich and interesting.
Can’t wait to read her latest!
I’ve not read any of Marian Keyes books, but if she’s anything like Maeve Binchy then I know I will fall in love with her books.
I love Marian Keyes and have most of her books. She’s one of the original “Chick Lit” authors, but has stood the test of time because her books aren’t just about men and shopping. She covers, loss, grief and addiction and makes her characters flawed but lovable.
A wonderful author, I’ve read two of her previous books, both excellent. Warm, but also with humour thrown in (what Irish person do you know doesn’t have a great sense of humour??)
I absolutely love all Irish authors because of their unique way of presenting characters and plot, and the local dialect used in their stories. Some of my favourties are Maeve Brennan, Catherine Dunne and M. J. Farrell (Molly Keane). I am particularly fond of Marian Keyes and have read several of her books including Angels and Sushi for Beginners.
I am really excited to read this latest book and hope that I am chosen as one of the winners.
Leave a comment
I love Irish women’s novels because my background is Irish and I had two quirky, strong Irish grandmothers who I’m reminded of when I read these novels.
Can’t wait to read it!
Sounds like a great book to read!
I love Marian Keyes’ books because she tackles serious topics but at the same time is so, so funny! I can hear her “talking” as I’m reading the books and often I am laughing out loud!
I love to read books from authors I have not had the opportunity to read yet.
I ‘ve always enjoyed Maeve Binchy’s works and would look forward to reading Marian Keyes’ new novel.
I long to go to Ireland – the home of my paternal grandmother who I never met. Reading Irish women’s novels takes me to Ireland & helps to to imagine my grandmother and my father who died when I was 9.
I’m always surprised when I sit down to read a new book only to discover I’ve picked another book based in Ireland. I’ve read all Maeve Binchy. I am now working my way through Marian Keyes. I would really enjoy to read this one.
I love Marian Keyes. She writes such wonderful characters that make me laugh and tug at my heart at the same time.
The Irish “flavour” makes the books even better. I can hear the accents in my head, and yet she doesn’t use so much local slang that I need to hit Google to understand.
I love these women. . .full of spunk and definitely entertaining!
Marian Keyes is one of my must read light fiction Irish authors.
The first Marian Keyes book I read; Is Anybody Out There was one of those don’t put down books. If you like Sophie Kinsella or yes Meave Binchy then you will enjoy Marian’s light, funny reads.
Irish fiction, although can sometimes take on a dark aspect of the rough Irish history, most carry the wit and the humour of the Irish. Between that and my ancestoral roots I am typically drawn to authors like Marian Keyes, Meave Binchy & even Edward Rutherford & Malachy McCourt.
So looking forward to Marian’s newest publication!
‘The Brightest Star in the Sky’ – who wouldn’t want to be one (literally), especially from Marian Keyes. Would love to read this one.
I have found that Irish authors inject a certain element of rich cultural Celtic history and traditions into their literature. Growing up with fantastic myths, legends and folk lore must give these authors great basis to weave their own tales. For me, this makes the work deeply interesting and personal – so much so that I have a difficult time putting the books down!
Marian’s books are so descriptive you feel like you are there.
I really enjoy Irish women’s novels… It gives me a chance to visit a real-life, mystical land, if only through the pages of their books!
I regularly read books by Irish women (as I am one too). The books are consistently well written and the writers have a great sense of humor!
Marian Keyes is an author I discovered years ago and to this day is still the author that made me lose my breath from laughing so hard. The book was “Watermelon”. I have read all her books. She is funny but manages to make you think. Talks about life when it is great and life when you walk around with your zipper open. Her real life stories tell the reader that she is human and just a doofus like the rest of us.
I love all of Marian Keyes’ novels – Maeve Binchy’s too – I also like Marian Keyes’ more autobiographical stuff. I don’t what it is about Irish Women writers but they definitely can do chick lit that’s got more depth to it.
I find Irish authors write in a different tone.. I don’t know how to explain it. Perhaps it’s the twing of irish blood in my veins or my sisterinlaw who’s from ireland.
Anything that comes out of Ireland is beautiful; it’s people, music, stories, et cetera.
Love Maeve Binchey novels they tell a very compelling, interesting story with great believable, likeable dialogue and characters. Have only read one Marian Keyes as of yet but have also enjoyed that immensely
As an Irish woman myself, I have great respect for all authors but Irish – more so:) Marian is one of my very favourites.
THANKS for the contest.
Kay
I love Irish authors! Maeve Binchy is currently my fave. Would love to read this book.
love this writer and her books, i just cannot put them down. also, every time I read one of her books, it reminds me of my time spent in lovely ireland with its wonderful people!!
I’ve signed up for UM.
I love Irish women’s novels because I am part Irish.
I am a fan of Maeve Binchy’s books mostly for the pictures they paint of my ancestral birthplace. I am new to Marian Keyes but her new novel does sound like it would be an excellent read full of Irish life, love, and the human condition.
Marian Keyes is a writer with warmth and style and I’d love a chance to read the trade version of her newest book! Thanks for the opportunity!
I have to say that I´ve never read any Irish woman novel, so it´s about time to start!
Would definitely love to read this book. Have read a couple of her books before, wonderful writer.
There is a special warmth in Irish women’s novels. The lovely lilt of the language comes through on paper.
Love to read this book for sure!
sounds like a great book to read
AFTER READING HER FIRST BOOK I’D ABSOLUTELY LOVE TO GET MY HANDS ON THIS ONE!
Really enjoy reading her books
My next door neighbor is Irish and she got me started on Marian Keyes. The characters are always rich and her descriptions are outstanding
I would love to read a book written by an Irish author because I am from Irish descent. One of my cousins currently lives in Belfast and hopefully one day I will get the chance to visit the Emerald Isle.
Irish culture is much more enticing than what you typically read in other cultures. I just love anything irish, plus well reading you get to think in all those handsome irish accents.
I love reading Irish novels it reminds me of my Irish roots !
Books by Irish writers are my favourite novels to read as they have such great backgound about lovely Ireland, makes you feel like you are in ireland when reading
I love Irish women’s novels because they are so intriguing and keep you engaged in the story until the end.
I love her books for their quirkiness and they’re nice easy reads after a long day!!
Humour… great story… imagining sexy accents… who can resist!
marian keynes, maeve binchy … they all seem to write about pretty real people. with a touch of whacky in marian keynes’ case, which is great!
I love Irish women writers because they get to love the handsome Irish men and then tell us about their adventures
Irish women speak from a different perspective than our own, yet with a similar background.
I haven’t missed a single Marian Keyes book! I find the humour in Irish novels is a little different, it strikes me as incredibly funny. And Keyes seems to always capture the emotional side of things just right – maybe a little exaggerated, but we all have an inner drama queen.
I love Irish Womens novels, and Marian Keyes is soon to be a household name I am sure, great authour!! Would love to get a sneak peak at her next book so add me in please!!
Maeve Binchy is one of my favourite writers. I love stories about (Irish) women, they usually are quite inspiring.
I love a good book – a book that leaves me feeling good. I really enjoy books of other countries and cultures as it broadens my horizons and help me see how similar and yet different we all are. Would love to read this book.
I’ve never read anything like this and would love to get a book
reading this book before its release will give me bragging rights
I love anything that comes out of Ireland. They’re music is wonderful and their books are great! I look forward to reading this new book Marian Keyes! The description sounds terrific!
There is something fresh, funny and touching about Marian Keyes’ novels. Her Irish sensibility and identity adds an intensity and delight to her writing.
I read her first book and could not put it down. What a great writer. I would love to read her new book.
I loved all of her books and would really love to read this one
I have not read a book by an Irish author, however, this win will
give me a good start. I would love to win this book.
I follow by email.
Thank you for hosting this great giveaway and Penguin books.
Sounds like a great read!
I love Irish women writers because the stories they tell are intricate and intelligent! I love the mix of old-time tradition and modern ideas that writers like Binchy and Keyes use in all their stories. They are both great tellers of family sagas and tales around important milestones in womens’ lives. I loved Rachel’s Holiday and plan to read all of Marian Keyes titles! Can’t wait for this new one!
I love Irish women’s novels,especially Maeve Binchy. I have read all her books and find them hard to put down once I start reading. Such good story lines.