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It's That Time of Year
It's the day before the wedding ...
Three strangers arrive home to Ireland to the house that gave each of them refuge when they needed it most. They are there to celebrate the winter wedding of their beloved Annie, the woman who fostered them in their childhoods.
Now Julia is a world-famous singer living in luxury in Paris and Eddie is a chef in London, while Steph spends her days on a remote Greek island, running a writers' retreat with her older lover.
All three have moved on from the past, but as the wedding celebrations get underway, certain truths come to light. It turns out that some hurts last longer than others ...
As Annie says 'I do', with an unexpected twist for her wedding party, will Julia, Eddie and Steph discover their own happy-ever-afters in time for the big day?
A spellbinding, warm-hearted novel from one of Ireland's best-loved writers.
Three strangers arrive home to Ireland to the house that gave each of them refuge when they needed it most. They are there to celebrate the winter wedding of their beloved Annie, the woman who fostered them in their childhoods.
Now Julia is a world-famous singer living in luxury in Paris and Eddie is a chef in London, while Steph spends her days on a remote Greek island, running a writers' retreat with her older lover.
All three have moved on from the past, but as the wedding celebrations get underway, certain truths come to light. It turns out that some hurts last longer than others ...
As Annie says 'I do', with an unexpected twist for her wedding party, will Julia, Eddie and Steph discover their own happy-ever-afters in time for the big day?
A spellbinding, warm-hearted novel from one of Ireland's best-loved writers.
296 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 27, 2020
420 people are currently reading
415 people want to read
About the author
Roisin Meaney
42 books382 followersBorn on 3rd September.
A published author of twenty books for adults and three for children, Roisin worked as an advertising copywriter for a number of years, and brings a vast amount of experience to the editing team. Her first novel, The Daisy Picker, won a Write a Bestseller competition. Her third novel, The Last Week of May reached number one on the Irish bestseller list and her fourth, The People Next Door reached number two. Her books have been translated into several languages, and two, Semi-Sweet and Life Drawing for Beginners, have been published in the US. She is currently working on her next book, which is scheduled for publication in autumn 2023. She is also plotting another children's book - shhhhh.
A published author of twenty books for adults and three for children, Roisin worked as an advertising copywriter for a number of years, and brings a vast amount of experience to the editing team. Her first novel, The Daisy Picker, won a Write a Bestseller competition. Her third novel, The Last Week of May reached number one on the Irish bestseller list and her fourth, The People Next Door reached number two. Her books have been translated into several languages, and two, Semi-Sweet and Life Drawing for Beginners, have been published in the US. She is currently working on her next book, which is scheduled for publication in autumn 2023. She is also plotting another children's book - shhhhh.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 110 reviews
October 2, 2020
If you are looking for a book to make you feel good, this is the one for you. With the election, the virus and the fires I just needed something bright and hopeful and found it in this book of cheer by famed Irish author. I simply devoured this book because I needed something to remind me there was goodness in the world and I found it.
Annie is at age 60 marrying her childhood friend, Matt. For years Annie has been taking in foster kids and giving them a home, love and security. Three of her very her favorites are making the trip to Ireland as they remember nothing but good about her. There's Julie M, famed international singer, Eddie, a chef in London and Steph living in a remote Greek island running a writers retreat with her lover and working in a pottery shop.
The three come together to celebrate the woman who gave them stability. Everything that could go wrong with this wedding does but yet Annie and Matt's love shines through. What happens to these characters just makes you feel good.
This is the perfect book for when you need something special to get you through the day. It's easy to read and reminds you just how wonderful humans can be. Thanks to NetGalley for a copy of this book in exchange for a fair review.
Annie is at age 60 marrying her childhood friend, Matt. For years Annie has been taking in foster kids and giving them a home, love and security. Three of her very her favorites are making the trip to Ireland as they remember nothing but good about her. There's Julie M, famed international singer, Eddie, a chef in London and Steph living in a remote Greek island running a writers retreat with her lover and working in a pottery shop.
The three come together to celebrate the woman who gave them stability. Everything that could go wrong with this wedding does but yet Annie and Matt's love shines through. What happens to these characters just makes you feel good.
This is the perfect book for when you need something special to get you through the day. It's easy to read and reminds you just how wonderful humans can be. Thanks to NetGalley for a copy of this book in exchange for a fair review.
December 28, 2020
I thought this one worked the best out of the three Meaney books I read. It was a great book to read around the Christmas holiday too. It's typical Meaney following multiple characters throughout the book. She does something different though, one character gets a "before" and "now" third person point of view. It shakes things up slightly and I liked it. I honestly think that if Meaney had just focused on that one person that would have been enough for me. But I think that for once the other characters actually dove tailed nicely together.
"It's That Time of Year" follows 60 year old Annie who is marrying long-time friend and neighbor Matt. Annie we find out was a foster mother for decades and now that she is marrying, invites three of her charges to her wedding. She invites the first child who came to her, Julie. The child who came to her as a baby, Eddie. And the child who tugged on her hearstrings the most it seems, Steph. The book follows Annie when she was "before" and who she is now that is she marrying and preparing to move on from the house she has called home since she was a young woman.
I have to say that everyone's stories in this one grabs you. Meaney focused the most on Annie (which makes sense) and her story is the one that you need to know the most about in order to find out why she never married until now and how she came to open a foster home in her village.
Julie is dealing with a lot in her life and we find out that she's become a world renowned musician who just wants one man who can't give her what she really wants.
Eddie is still dealing with not really being a part of her family's life and knowing that his father still blames him decades later for causing his mother's death. Eddie lives in London chasing his dream of being a famous chef.
Steph lives on a small island in Greece and tells herself that her life with a moody writer is perfect. But something causes her to live one day to make sure she can be there for Annie's wedding.
Meaney definitely sets the mood with all of the characters. Sometimes they all move easily together, and sometimes there's tension.
The setting of the village and the house that at one time everyone lived in really came together I thought. It felt magical and special.
The ending I thought worked and I liked how all of the story-lines were resolved.
"It's That Time of Year" follows 60 year old Annie who is marrying long-time friend and neighbor Matt. Annie we find out was a foster mother for decades and now that she is marrying, invites three of her charges to her wedding. She invites the first child who came to her, Julie. The child who came to her as a baby, Eddie. And the child who tugged on her hearstrings the most it seems, Steph. The book follows Annie when she was "before" and who she is now that is she marrying and preparing to move on from the house she has called home since she was a young woman.
I have to say that everyone's stories in this one grabs you. Meaney focused the most on Annie (which makes sense) and her story is the one that you need to know the most about in order to find out why she never married until now and how she came to open a foster home in her village.
Julie is dealing with a lot in her life and we find out that she's become a world renowned musician who just wants one man who can't give her what she really wants.
Eddie is still dealing with not really being a part of her family's life and knowing that his father still blames him decades later for causing his mother's death. Eddie lives in London chasing his dream of being a famous chef.
Steph lives on a small island in Greece and tells herself that her life with a moody writer is perfect. But something causes her to live one day to make sure she can be there for Annie's wedding.
Meaney definitely sets the mood with all of the characters. Sometimes they all move easily together, and sometimes there's tension.
The setting of the village and the house that at one time everyone lived in really came together I thought. It felt magical and special.
The ending I thought worked and I liked how all of the story-lines were resolved.
December 17, 2022
Such a great Christmas story. Annie and her family are great people.
September 7, 2020
A feel-good story about Annie who has fostered children in a small village in Ireland. As you get into the book, you find out that her life and that of her fostered children is not all sweetness and light, but there are solutions. A story of love and friendship which is easy to read . Written from the point of view of Annie , both in present times and in the past and 3 of her foster children , it is not a book that you have to think too deeply about, but it left me with a good feeling.
Thank you to Net Galley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review
Thank you to Net Galley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review
September 10, 2020
I received an ARC from NetGalley, the author, and the publisher for an honest review. I love a story that takes place in Ireland. Annie was a foster Mom to over 100 foster children and she was getting married at age 60. She decided to invite 3 of the children she had. As we meet them, we learn of their struggles, their choices, and how their lives were going. We learn why she chose the ones she did and having over 100 children throughout her life, we find out if they had even met each other before. The author weaves everything together, with sprinkles of Ireland, the making of tea, and the hominess of the kitchen. I wished I was there, it just flowed so smoothly. When I finished the book, there were no loose ends but I was sad to see it was the end. This was the first book I have read of Roisin Meaney but I will be reading more of her books.
November 19, 2021
I absolutely loved this book!
The story is told from the perspective of Annie and her 3 foster children and switches from the past to the present day. This allows the reader to get a better insight into each character, made for a fast paced read and made me fall in love with Annie, she was just lovely!
Each character had a story to tell within the book and made the story have many layers to it, which I enjoyed as it wasn't solely focused on one thing. The ending was perfect and I adored how everyone came together one year later with each character finding happiness. I loved the whole concept of the book and this was just the perfect Christmas read and left my heart full of joy, I just loved it.
The story is told from the perspective of Annie and her 3 foster children and switches from the past to the present day. This allows the reader to get a better insight into each character, made for a fast paced read and made me fall in love with Annie, she was just lovely!
Each character had a story to tell within the book and made the story have many layers to it, which I enjoyed as it wasn't solely focused on one thing. The ending was perfect and I adored how everyone came together one year later with each character finding happiness. I loved the whole concept of the book and this was just the perfect Christmas read and left my heart full of joy, I just loved it.
December 10, 2020
Perfect Christmas reading
While I'm not the best with words, I have to say how much I enjoyed this book. The characters are so believable. The Christmas theme really works and lets you get away from today's problems
While I'm not the best with words, I have to say how much I enjoyed this book. The characters are so believable. The Christmas theme really works and lets you get away from today's problems
December 8, 2024
I quite enjoyed this book despite my 3 stars. I’m a sucker for midday Christmas movies and it just felt like the plot line of one of the cheesy Christmas movies that I indulge myself in every December. A really easy read, not overly descriptive, however made me smile
December 15, 2020
It is the eve of two important days for Annie. Her 60th birthday, and her wedding day. She has invited three of her past foster children to share the excitement.
Out of hundreds of children she has fostered over the years, why has she chosen these three? Well in the beautiful interwoven story we find out.
This was a dream to read. I loved every word and didn’t want the story to end.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Out of hundreds of children she has fostered over the years, why has she chosen these three? Well in the beautiful interwoven story we find out.
This was a dream to read. I loved every word and didn’t want the story to end.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
December 13, 2020
A beautiful story of Annie (then and now). Annie then was starting college life when the unexpected ended in tragedy, leading her to a lasting gift. Annie now is 60, getting married, foster mother to many including three special ones and wondering how to let go of the past. The story is heartwarming (yes a little predictable at times in the “now” section) and a nice light read.
January 20, 2021
Heartwarming, easy to read, predictable story. Exactly what's needed when the weather's shit and you're in the middle of a global pandemic.
February 3, 2022
A feel good heartwarming book that I really enjoyed. Annie is an incredible character that I loved from the beginning of the novel to the end. I liked learning her backstory in conjunction with her present day story. The book got a bit confusing though as it switched perspective between four different characters and it switched between present and past. Overall I’d highly recommend if you are looking for a cozy and fun story filled with romance, friendship, conflict, and lots of snow.
November 30, 2024
I am so happy that I have found another great author. I found this book very hard to put down because I absolutely loved it.
December 16, 2024
This book gives you all the feels if a hallmark Christmas movie 🎄💖
August 30, 2020
I absolutely LOVED this book. A brilliant read that wasn't all happiness - I have to admit it also had me in tears a few times, the ultimate emotional rollercoaster.
Our main character is Annie and we meet her just before her 60th birthday, the same day as she is getting married. We also learn that she was a foster carer and has invited 3 of her former foster children - why those 3 we will learn later in the book.
I loved many elements about this book. We learn about the younger Annie in flashbacks to her younger days. One of my favourite characters was her best friend Cora, everybody needs a Cora in their life!
Another aspect was the story telling from the 3 foster kids (now adults). Their descriptions of their journeys to Annie's and how they intertwined were lovely.
Annie's house sounded so inviting, As a reader you could definitely see yourself in the kitchen, having a coffee and catching up on the news!
Overall a lovely read that I will definitely be recommending to others. Congratulations Roisin, this book will be staying with me for a long time.
Our main character is Annie and we meet her just before her 60th birthday, the same day as she is getting married. We also learn that she was a foster carer and has invited 3 of her former foster children - why those 3 we will learn later in the book.
I loved many elements about this book. We learn about the younger Annie in flashbacks to her younger days. One of my favourite characters was her best friend Cora, everybody needs a Cora in their life!
Another aspect was the story telling from the 3 foster kids (now adults). Their descriptions of their journeys to Annie's and how they intertwined were lovely.
Annie's house sounded so inviting, As a reader you could definitely see yourself in the kitchen, having a coffee and catching up on the news!
Overall a lovely read that I will definitely be recommending to others. Congratulations Roisin, this book will be staying with me for a long time.
October 4, 2020
Loved it!!! Love Annie. She is the heart of the book. She was so sweet and a wonderful mother to all the children she fostered. I was sad to see the book end. I wanted to keep reading about Annie, Julia, Steph and Eddie and see what they were up to. My favorite part of the book was reading about Annie in the past and how she ended up fostering so many children. She had such a wonderful friendship with Cora. They would do anything for each other. It was a beautiful story. The wedding ended up being perfect, even though it wasn't what they expected or planned for.
Definitely recommend the book. Loved the story, characters (even though Steph was really hard to like) and the writing style. The book was full of love, friendship, forgiveness and so much more. Look forward to reading more books by the author.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Hachette Books Ireland through NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Definitely recommend the book. Loved the story, characters (even though Steph was really hard to like) and the writing style. The book was full of love, friendship, forgiveness and so much more. Look forward to reading more books by the author.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Hachette Books Ireland through NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
November 1, 2020
With thanks to Netgalley and the publishers for the arc, which I have enjoyed reading.
It’s That Time of Year by Roisin Meaney is a delightful book to read, it’s a hot chocolate drink with marshmallows or a cosy blanket to wrap yourself up in, it makes you feel warm and cosy. It is the story of Annie, Matt, Cora and Dan and then Julia, Steph and Eddie whom Annie looked after. The storyline is of people growing up, the love and laughter, sadness and tears which are all part and parcel of life.
The story begins with the wedding of Annie and Matt on the day of Annie’s 60th birthday and the life and times that began before that day.
Highly recommended.
It’s That Time of Year by Roisin Meaney is a delightful book to read, it’s a hot chocolate drink with marshmallows or a cosy blanket to wrap yourself up in, it makes you feel warm and cosy. It is the story of Annie, Matt, Cora and Dan and then Julia, Steph and Eddie whom Annie looked after. The storyline is of people growing up, the love and laughter, sadness and tears which are all part and parcel of life.
The story begins with the wedding of Annie and Matt on the day of Annie’s 60th birthday and the life and times that began before that day.
Highly recommended.
December 15, 2020
Set at Christmas but not a Christmas story as such 'It's That Time of Year' is a wonderful tale of one past life and four present lives woven together in usual Meaney fashion.
Annie is turning 60, getting married to Matt and has invited three very special people to share her wedding day. Very special people to Annie but strangers to each other.
Roisin Meaney has become a must buy author for me and this book is among my favourites of her work to date. It gave me real Roone vibes and felt like it had been set on the island like some of her other stories. The only problem I had was that it was too short!
Annie is turning 60, getting married to Matt and has invited three very special people to share her wedding day. Very special people to Annie but strangers to each other.
Roisin Meaney has become a must buy author for me and this book is among my favourites of her work to date. It gave me real Roone vibes and felt like it had been set on the island like some of her other stories. The only problem I had was that it was too short!
October 12, 2020
Thanks to Roisin Meaney for the escapism with this book over the weekend. Nice reminder that no matter how bad things get it’s the hope that things will get better that gets us through it.
Although there was a lot of hugs going on in it so now I just want to meet up with all of my friends for a hug fest 🤣😊😀
Nice easy read, if you've enjoyed Graham Norton's books then this is the book for you too!
Although there was a lot of hugs going on in it so now I just want to meet up with all of my friends for a hug fest 🤣😊😀
Nice easy read, if you've enjoyed Graham Norton's books then this is the book for you too!
January 11, 2022
This is my first book by this Author and I can safely say it will not be my last.
Annie is the main character, this story is about her life and brings us through her past up to the present day for her. A story of friendship and love. A lovely easy feel good read.
Annie is the main character, this story is about her life and brings us through her past up to the present day for her. A story of friendship and love. A lovely easy feel good read.
December 29, 2022
Different people and different stories that come together and help each other in their difficulties, quite a nice read!
January 5, 2021
The wonderful Roisin Meaney had already brought us the brilliant The Restaurant in the Summer of 2020 and towards the tail end of the year she published It’s That Time of Year. It was a real treat of a read, perfect to curl up on the couch with on a cold winter’s day. It’s not a Christmas book as such although it does take place in the days preceding the big day. It’s a warm and cosy read following Annie as she prepares for her wedding. It is to be a small event, just the way she wants it, but she has asked several of her foster children to return to the small village in Clare where she lives so they can join in the celebrations. But the three people out of the many she fostered over the years are all battling with their own demons and emotions. Will there be unity and cause for joy and happiness or will what they are grappling with threaten to ruin the big day alongside a snowstorm?
It’s That Time of Year is a slow and comforting read and I definitely felt it was giving off Maeve Binchy vibes as it reminded me so much of her novels. Maeve was an author beloved by so many so to get that same feeling from Roisin’s book was amazing. I felt the story had a lovely, natural, engaging flow to it and that the characters were allowed to just share their stories at the most perfect pace. There was a sense that Annie was a very wise woman. One who offered comfort, hope and support to those who needed it the most. She never put pressure or unnecessary force on people to share their burdens but would always be there at just the right time when someone felt the need to let go and share their troubles and issues. Annie was the matriarch of the story, although not connected by blood to the three people who she has asked specifically to come to her big day, still she was their mother figure in the absence of one.
Annie is a doer and a helper. She always helps people out be it driving the meals on wheels van, reading in the church or aiding any community endeavour. You can sure count on Annie. She is 60 and this milestone birthday sees her facing big changes in her life as she is going to have to sell the farmhouse where she fostered so many and where endless special memories were created. It’s too big for her and for another reason alluded to throughout the story she will have to move in with her new husband Matt. Annie was a wonderful character written with such empathy and simple understanding. We see the decisions she is silently wrestling with but yet pushes these to one side as Julia, Eddie and Steph return to their safety net but will it remain intact for them or will their concerns, anxieties and difficulties prove to be too much?
Julia is 40 and has spent the past 25 years living in Paris. She is a singer who has had success but is now struggling to write new material. She has been having an affair with Jean Luc and wishes that it could come out in the open and their love can be shared for all to see. Julia shares a real emotional connection with Annie as she lost her parents when she was 3. Annie stepped in and was there for her until she chose to leave the nest. Yet she can always rely on Annie for words of wisdom and a shoulder to cry on. The reader can sense that at this point in time Julia is not truly happy in her own skin, it’s like there is a shadow hanging over her. She is not comfortable with the amount of fame she has attracted and she feels an enormous pressure to conform to what a celebrity should be. She wears a haunted look and is worn out from being in the spotlight and despite such acclaim she is desperately lonely. Will returning for Annie’s wedding help her to feel protected and safe and finally aid her in confronting what is tormenting her? Can she just be plain old Julia Murphy instead of a famous singer and a mistress?
Steph was the most messed up out of the three Annie has invited. She was a tearaway as a teenager and caused endless trouble for her foster mother. This will be the first time she has returned to see Annie since she left. There’s is a fractured history as Steph has been an absolute horror with truancy disappearances and just a general standoffish mood full of defiance. She seemed to have a huge chip on her shoulder in relation to her family history but Annie could see she was suffering. She kept asking her to do something which could see Steph have some sort of resolution and acceptance but she firmly resolved not to do this. Steph is a wanderer but for some time she has settled on a Greek island with an author and they run writing retreats but from the way she talks and the experiences she describes the reader can tell she is not living a contented life in the sun.
It was easy to see what Steph needed to do with her life but she comes back just the same as ever and appears not to have grown and changed. Did she just endlessly move about her problems from one place to another not seeing any way out or what direction she should go in? Honestly, I couldn’t warm to Steph. Yes, I could see that she was damaged but she just seemed too woe is me and there was no get up and go about her. She was just miserable and yes I know she was experiencing a tough time but Annie was always on her side she just never chose to fully let her in.
Eddie is the final person chosen to come to Annie’s wedding. He has been living in London for the last 8 years and makes out he has the best chef job in the world and has worked in top quality restaurants. He allows this illusion to keep going when in reality he works in a normal run of the mill restaurant. He is no closer to realising his dreams. He spent a brief time with Annie as he returned to his family aged 5 but yet a huge gulf still exists between Eddie and his family members. Are the demons of the past just that too difficult too quash one and for all.? For me Eddie was the most under developed character, I wanted to know more about him. His inner workings, thoughts and opinions. I felt we barely scratched the surface of him whereas I felt more of a pull to Annie, Julia and Steph.
As well as getting to know the three foster children returning as adults, every few chapters or so we get a glimpse into Annie’s past life and I loved these sections of the book. It really helped to gain such a deeper understanding of Annie as to what really motivated her in spending so much of her life helping children in need. I loved how we saw her life long friendship with Cora begin, develop and mature and you just wish that you yourself could have such a lasting and solid friendship to see you through life. Delving into Annie’s past gave us such a deep and special insight into all aspects of her character and this also allowed me to appreciate her even more. It showed she was a special and unique person who always saw the bigger picture when others could not and she knew just what they needed when they couldn’t see the wood for the trees in the darkest of times. I hoped she would have the special and most memorable day that she deserved but there were numerous obstacles in her path not to mention all the soul searching and angst that each and every character was experiencing.
It’s That Time of Year was a gorgeous, comforting read and it was an absolute delight to have a second new book from Roisin in the space of a few months. This book was special and I loved how the threads all wove together coming towards the end. I’m already looking forward to The Book Club which is due to be published in June.
It’s That Time of Year is a slow and comforting read and I definitely felt it was giving off Maeve Binchy vibes as it reminded me so much of her novels. Maeve was an author beloved by so many so to get that same feeling from Roisin’s book was amazing. I felt the story had a lovely, natural, engaging flow to it and that the characters were allowed to just share their stories at the most perfect pace. There was a sense that Annie was a very wise woman. One who offered comfort, hope and support to those who needed it the most. She never put pressure or unnecessary force on people to share their burdens but would always be there at just the right time when someone felt the need to let go and share their troubles and issues. Annie was the matriarch of the story, although not connected by blood to the three people who she has asked specifically to come to her big day, still she was their mother figure in the absence of one.
Annie is a doer and a helper. She always helps people out be it driving the meals on wheels van, reading in the church or aiding any community endeavour. You can sure count on Annie. She is 60 and this milestone birthday sees her facing big changes in her life as she is going to have to sell the farmhouse where she fostered so many and where endless special memories were created. It’s too big for her and for another reason alluded to throughout the story she will have to move in with her new husband Matt. Annie was a wonderful character written with such empathy and simple understanding. We see the decisions she is silently wrestling with but yet pushes these to one side as Julia, Eddie and Steph return to their safety net but will it remain intact for them or will their concerns, anxieties and difficulties prove to be too much?
Julia is 40 and has spent the past 25 years living in Paris. She is a singer who has had success but is now struggling to write new material. She has been having an affair with Jean Luc and wishes that it could come out in the open and their love can be shared for all to see. Julia shares a real emotional connection with Annie as she lost her parents when she was 3. Annie stepped in and was there for her until she chose to leave the nest. Yet she can always rely on Annie for words of wisdom and a shoulder to cry on. The reader can sense that at this point in time Julia is not truly happy in her own skin, it’s like there is a shadow hanging over her. She is not comfortable with the amount of fame she has attracted and she feels an enormous pressure to conform to what a celebrity should be. She wears a haunted look and is worn out from being in the spotlight and despite such acclaim she is desperately lonely. Will returning for Annie’s wedding help her to feel protected and safe and finally aid her in confronting what is tormenting her? Can she just be plain old Julia Murphy instead of a famous singer and a mistress?
Steph was the most messed up out of the three Annie has invited. She was a tearaway as a teenager and caused endless trouble for her foster mother. This will be the first time she has returned to see Annie since she left. There’s is a fractured history as Steph has been an absolute horror with truancy disappearances and just a general standoffish mood full of defiance. She seemed to have a huge chip on her shoulder in relation to her family history but Annie could see she was suffering. She kept asking her to do something which could see Steph have some sort of resolution and acceptance but she firmly resolved not to do this. Steph is a wanderer but for some time she has settled on a Greek island with an author and they run writing retreats but from the way she talks and the experiences she describes the reader can tell she is not living a contented life in the sun.
It was easy to see what Steph needed to do with her life but she comes back just the same as ever and appears not to have grown and changed. Did she just endlessly move about her problems from one place to another not seeing any way out or what direction she should go in? Honestly, I couldn’t warm to Steph. Yes, I could see that she was damaged but she just seemed too woe is me and there was no get up and go about her. She was just miserable and yes I know she was experiencing a tough time but Annie was always on her side she just never chose to fully let her in.
Eddie is the final person chosen to come to Annie’s wedding. He has been living in London for the last 8 years and makes out he has the best chef job in the world and has worked in top quality restaurants. He allows this illusion to keep going when in reality he works in a normal run of the mill restaurant. He is no closer to realising his dreams. He spent a brief time with Annie as he returned to his family aged 5 but yet a huge gulf still exists between Eddie and his family members. Are the demons of the past just that too difficult too quash one and for all.? For me Eddie was the most under developed character, I wanted to know more about him. His inner workings, thoughts and opinions. I felt we barely scratched the surface of him whereas I felt more of a pull to Annie, Julia and Steph.
As well as getting to know the three foster children returning as adults, every few chapters or so we get a glimpse into Annie’s past life and I loved these sections of the book. It really helped to gain such a deeper understanding of Annie as to what really motivated her in spending so much of her life helping children in need. I loved how we saw her life long friendship with Cora begin, develop and mature and you just wish that you yourself could have such a lasting and solid friendship to see you through life. Delving into Annie’s past gave us such a deep and special insight into all aspects of her character and this also allowed me to appreciate her even more. It showed she was a special and unique person who always saw the bigger picture when others could not and she knew just what they needed when they couldn’t see the wood for the trees in the darkest of times. I hoped she would have the special and most memorable day that she deserved but there were numerous obstacles in her path not to mention all the soul searching and angst that each and every character was experiencing.
It’s That Time of Year was a gorgeous, comforting read and it was an absolute delight to have a second new book from Roisin in the space of a few months. This book was special and I loved how the threads all wove together coming towards the end. I’m already looking forward to The Book Club which is due to be published in June.
September 29, 2020
Christmas is coming, an exciting time every year but this December Annie is turning sixty and she's getting married to her beloved Matt. In the past Annie was a foster parent, over 100 children needing some love and safety crossed her threshold as she welcomed them into her home.
Three of them were extra special and it is they who have been invited to join Annie, Matt and their other guests. Her first foster child, Julia, has become a famous singer and lives in Paris but doesn't hesitate to head to Ireland for the weekend. Eddie is a chef now, well known in London, and making a name for himself elsewhere, while working in a top city restaurant. Steph on the other hand lives a more remote life on a Greek island with her partner helping with his writing retreats.
So, everyone is happy, everyone is content, and excited to be part of such a wonderful occasion, well, not exactly. Cracks appear, old resentments rear their ugly heads and the season of goodwill may not live up to its hype.
This is a lovely book, it will make you laugh and cry, just like real life. The characterisation was excellent and I am so glad I read it. This is the first novel I have tried by this author, I am certain it won't be the last.
I was able to read an advanced copy of this thanks to NetGalley and the publishers in exchange for an unbiased review and would recommend it to anyone who enjoys a slightly different seasonal tale, it is definitely worth reading.
Three of them were extra special and it is they who have been invited to join Annie, Matt and their other guests. Her first foster child, Julia, has become a famous singer and lives in Paris but doesn't hesitate to head to Ireland for the weekend. Eddie is a chef now, well known in London, and making a name for himself elsewhere, while working in a top city restaurant. Steph on the other hand lives a more remote life on a Greek island with her partner helping with his writing retreats.
So, everyone is happy, everyone is content, and excited to be part of such a wonderful occasion, well, not exactly. Cracks appear, old resentments rear their ugly heads and the season of goodwill may not live up to its hype.
This is a lovely book, it will make you laugh and cry, just like real life. The characterisation was excellent and I am so glad I read it. This is the first novel I have tried by this author, I am certain it won't be the last.
I was able to read an advanced copy of this thanks to NetGalley and the publishers in exchange for an unbiased review and would recommend it to anyone who enjoys a slightly different seasonal tale, it is definitely worth reading.
October 14, 2020
It’s That Time of Year by Roisin Meaney takes readers to Ireland where a special wedding will take place. Annie will be turning sixty years old and marrying her longtime friend, Matt on the same day. I enjoy reading stories where the characters find love later in their life (it gives me hope). It’s That Time of Year gives us Annie’s story along with that of Steph, Julia, and Eddie. It switches between Annie’s present life and what led up to her wedding to Matt. It takes us back to when Annie went off to college to become a teacher and how her journey toward that goal got diverted. We also get the story from Steph, Eddie, and Julia’s point-of-view. We learn how each of them came to live with Annie and what happened to them after they left her house. With the switching around of POV and time-period, I found it difficult to get into this book. I read the book, but I never became immersed in the story. There are some longwinded descriptions (like those regarding food) that were unneeded, and the pacing is varied. While I found the story lacking in some areas, there were some good sections. I enjoyed the depictions of Ireland as well as the humor interspersed throughout the tale. I like how Annie rolled with the punches on her wedding day. There is fun and festive celebrating while everyone rejoices in Annie and Matt’s nuptials. It’s That Time of Year is a sweet, heartwarming story about love, secrets, and second chances.
December 16, 2020
I hate to say it, but I just didn't get along with this book at all. I desperately wanted to, as it sounded exactly like the sort of book I would normally love, but I just couldn't get into it, and I really struggled to engage with either the characters or the plot. It's hard to describe, as there's nothing wrong with the book itself. It's a lovely story, but I just couldn't connect with it, and it was only the fact that I was provided with an advance copy from the publisher that stopped me from bailing out and adding it to the DNF pile.
So yeah, sadly this one wasn't for me. However, like I said, there's nothing wrong with the book itself, and instead it's likely just a case of me being the wrong reader, if that makes sense? After all, it has overwhelmingly positive reviews, so I think if you're already a fan of the author, you'll likely love it. If you've never read her before (like me), I would maybe recommend looking for another of her books with slightly quicker pacing to help you get into it and connect with the story.
Disclaimer - I was fortunate enough to be provided with an advance reading copy of this book by NetGalley. This has not affected my review in any way, and all opinions are my own.
So yeah, sadly this one wasn't for me. However, like I said, there's nothing wrong with the book itself, and instead it's likely just a case of me being the wrong reader, if that makes sense? After all, it has overwhelmingly positive reviews, so I think if you're already a fan of the author, you'll likely love it. If you've never read her before (like me), I would maybe recommend looking for another of her books with slightly quicker pacing to help you get into it and connect with the story.
Disclaimer - I was fortunate enough to be provided with an advance reading copy of this book by NetGalley. This has not affected my review in any way, and all opinions are my own.
August 26, 2020
This is my first Roisin read but definitely not my last.
I was expecting a real Christmassy book but this is set at Christmas with foster mum Annie in her 60s leading up to her wedding to Matt.
She invites 3 out of over 100 previous foster children who are now all grown up. Why just those,? You will have to read to find out, as I don't want to spoil it for you.
When I first started reading this book I struggled a little as there were so many characters I couldn’t keep up with who was who, each of the chapters is set with Steph, Julia, Eddie and Annie before and now so it took me a while to find out about all the relationships, but I was soon drawn in and absorbed in the story.
As time went on I really enjoyed this book, a perfect little cosy winter treat to devour by the warm fire with a hot chocolate.
Worth a read and looking forward to reading more from Roisin.
Thank you Hachette Books for this ARC.
I was expecting a real Christmassy book but this is set at Christmas with foster mum Annie in her 60s leading up to her wedding to Matt.
She invites 3 out of over 100 previous foster children who are now all grown up. Why just those,? You will have to read to find out, as I don't want to spoil it for you.
When I first started reading this book I struggled a little as there were so many characters I couldn’t keep up with who was who, each of the chapters is set with Steph, Julia, Eddie and Annie before and now so it took me a while to find out about all the relationships, but I was soon drawn in and absorbed in the story.
As time went on I really enjoyed this book, a perfect little cosy winter treat to devour by the warm fire with a hot chocolate.
Worth a read and looking forward to reading more from Roisin.
Thank you Hachette Books for this ARC.
October 25, 2020
Sometimes a book enters your life at exactly the right moment. Yes, for me, when I read a book my life becomes that book and the characters could be in the same room as me
Well not for all books
Definitely for this one
This author has a very unique talent at storytelling. I adored the characters, especially Steph and found myself willing her on. I wanted her to be grounded. Julia to be true to herself and Eddie to realise his dreams. I loved the lifelong friendship between Annie and Cora with Matt just always there
In these days of strange times this book will uplift the reader and will make the days brighter
I am happy to recommend this to everyone who wants some brightness in their lives
Well not for all books
Definitely for this one
This author has a very unique talent at storytelling. I adored the characters, especially Steph and found myself willing her on. I wanted her to be grounded. Julia to be true to herself and Eddie to realise his dreams. I loved the lifelong friendship between Annie and Cora with Matt just always there
In these days of strange times this book will uplift the reader and will make the days brighter
I am happy to recommend this to everyone who wants some brightness in their lives
December 28, 2020
This is the story of Annie, a woman whose life took an unexpected turn, who is getting married and invited three of her former foster children to attend. Julia was her first and is now a famous singer. Eddie was the her first baby. Steph was one of her last fosters. None of them know how this wedding will change them all.
This story was very touching yet still tackles some difficult topics. You come to care about all the main characters quickly and I think that is because of the way the author, Roisin Meaney, conveys Annie's love for them all. This was the first book of Roisin's I have read and it will not be the last.
This story was very touching yet still tackles some difficult topics. You come to care about all the main characters quickly and I think that is because of the way the author, Roisin Meaney, conveys Annie's love for them all. This was the first book of Roisin's I have read and it will not be the last.
November 25, 2021
This is my first book by Roisin Meaney and I wasn't disappointed. Loved Annie's story of times gone by and how she came about fostering some many children. Especially Julia, Steph and Eddie and seeing what they were all up to.
Also the beautiful friendship Annie had with Cora and how they were there for each other through thick and thin .
The book was beautifully written, full of love, friendships, forgiveness and so much more. Looking forward to reading more books by the author. Thank you Roisin for letting me share Annie's life, it was such an honour.
Also the beautiful friendship Annie had with Cora and how they were there for each other through thick and thin .
The book was beautifully written, full of love, friendships, forgiveness and so much more. Looking forward to reading more books by the author. Thank you Roisin for letting me share Annie's life, it was such an honour.
February 6, 2024
Some Books are Meant to Reach You
Showing up at a highly volatile time in my life, this book affirmed so many of my decisions, simply through synchronicity.
An Irish story, a beautiful story of one woman's life as it touched so many others, with just enough real life to not be cheesy and all the magic needed to keep the escape of reading rewarding. As it's set around foster care, not what I thought a single Mom would enjoy reading, but the stories that collide remind you that, truly, anything is possible. Thank you for writing this, Roisin Meaney
Showing up at a highly volatile time in my life, this book affirmed so many of my decisions, simply through synchronicity.
An Irish story, a beautiful story of one woman's life as it touched so many others, with just enough real life to not be cheesy and all the magic needed to keep the escape of reading rewarding. As it's set around foster care, not what I thought a single Mom would enjoy reading, but the stories that collide remind you that, truly, anything is possible. Thank you for writing this, Roisin Meaney
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