Anne Griffin’s debut novel tells the story of Maurice Hannigan, a rich 84-year-old man who spends an evening in the Rainsford House Hotel in County Meath, reflecting on his life.

Over the course of five toasts, and five anecdotes – each related to an important person in his life – Maurice weighs up his own character against that of the people he’s loved, trusted, slighted or abandoned. Told in stark, unadorned detail, Griffin’s story is one of sins and the possibility of forgiveness. It’s a sweeping tale, vividly recounted, with more than enough emotional impact to leave you completely in tears. A fine debut from a writer of searing potential and with an impressive ear for character and setting.

Hodder & Staughton

Peter McGoran