Laois writer launches debut novel next week

A romantic debut novel titled The Christmas Market by Mountmellick native and former librarian Linda McEvoy will be released on Thursday 26 September which can be pre-ordered online and in good bookshops.

Debut novels create opportunities for new authors to make an impact on the publishing industry. Linda certainly achieved that with her first novel being picked up by well-known agent, Nicky Lovick with WGM Atlantic Talent and Literary Group on its first draft and published by London based Bedford Square Publishers.

The former librarian of 30 years who managed Skibbereen Library in Cork, spoke about her book for the Laois Nationalist in Mountmellick Library recently.

She said: “I returned to my hometown of Mountmellick two years ago following early retirement. I love Christmas and always came home every year for the festive season.

“In November 2022, a writing prompt from an online writing course ‘the walls were covered with ivy’ coincided with my walks in Emo Court and the seeds of The Christmas Market were sown.

"My lead character Jas has a mind of her own and practically wrote herself while I laughed along or tore my hair out, depending on what she chose to do next!

“I've done my best to give a very positive image of life and community in my fictional town. My editor, Carolyn, said the writing made her want to pack her bags and move to whatever town inspired the location in my book!

"In The Christmas Market, Jas leaves Galway and a bad relationship returning to her small-town midlands home, hoping to sort out her life. She has ten weeks to start her vintage hat-making business and save the Christmas market! She has a witch of a childhood nemesis to overcome and definitely no time for romance. But it's Christmas and there's mistletoe, twinkling lights, a beautiful French angel and Niall! Sometimes magic happens when you least expect it and all you really need to do is believe!” The book has been described by various romance authors as 'magical', 'quirky', 'romantic', and 'full of warmth and Irish humour with a sparky main character in a charming town full of community, heart, and hope'. Multi award-winning author and Chair of The Romantic Novelists’ Association, Catherine Tinley, described Linda as 'a wonderful new voice'.

The Christmas Market is available to order in local bookshops, including Bookmark in Laois Shopping Centre and All Books, Lyster Square.

The official launch of The Christmas Market will take place in Mountmellick Library at 7pm on Tuesday 15 October. Everyone is welcome to attend.

The talented writer will sign copies, read from her book and take part in a question-and-answer session at the launch. Linda’s London-based agent, Nicky Lovick told her that she “wouldn’t miss the launch for the world!” Copies are available locally in All Books and The Bookmark in Portlaoise priced at €13. The Bookmark will attend the launch and have copies for sale on the night.

Linda McEvoy Writer is on Facebook. Her Instagram page is @lindamcevoywriter.