A review by romonko
Whitethorn Woods by Maeve Binchy

emotional funny hopeful inspiring reflective relaxing slow-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Character
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

5.0

It's been quite awhile since I read a Maeve Binchy book, but I had this one on my shelf, and I felt the need of some nice cozy fiction during the cold snap we're currently experiencing.  It did not take me long to realize how much I enjoy Maeve Binchy's books, even though I haven't read one for a long time.  This was like reading a book similar to the television series,  Midsomer Murders.  Only in this it is a small Irish village called Rossmore that we visit.  The characters in the book are truly spectacular.  I fell in love with everyone of them, and believe me, there are quite a few recurring characters in this book.  The story is woven around the small village, and the possibility of a huge road going in beside their town, and through a famous old well called St. Ann's Well where people have gone for years to have their wishes granted.  We meet Brian Flynn, the village curate, and we meet Neddy Nolan, and many others.  We find out about their  adolescent years as well as their adult lives, and we are part of all the trials and tribulations that each of the families have gone through.  Each story has been woven into the fabric  of this book to make an utterly believable whole.  I was so taken with the book that I am going to read the Maeve Binchy books that I haven't read before.  I look forward to this journey because I know I will love everyone as much as I loved this one.