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Make Yourself at Home
Marianne left home when she was fifteen following a family tragedy, one that changed all their lives. She never planned to return. But when her carefully controlled life falls apart, she has no choice but to return to Ancaire, the ramshackle house overlooking the Irish Sea, where her mother, Rita, a flamboyant artist and recovering alcoholic still lives. As her mother invites her to pull up a chair and make herself at home, alongside the friends, family and neighbours who wander its rooms. Marianne discovers that sometimes home isn’t a house, it’s a place in your heart. Set on the wild Irish coast, with an unforgettable cast of characters, this deeply emotional novel is full of Ciara Geraghty’s trademark heart and poignancy.
432 pages, Paperback
Published September 6, 2022
97 people are currently reading
244 people want to read
About the author
Ciara Geraghty
16 books203 followersCiara Geraghty is an Irish bestselling author. She lives in Dublin with one husband and three children.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 52 reviews
March 5, 2021
I received this book from Harper Collins Ireland in exchange for an honest review.
When Marianne's husband leaves her for another woman, and she ends up shoplifting (she only does it when she's stressed!) which results in her losing her job, she has to move back to her childhood home. Now she's forced to get involved with her mother Rita's wacky antics which include running a group called the Get Well Soon Club (a more eccentric version of AA), and Marianne soon finds herself enjoying her days at home instead of mourning the loss of her old, organised life.
This book was just what I needed this week, and made a bad start to the week into a lovely finish! It felt like a tonic due to the weird and wonderful characters I was introduced to though Marianne's integration into the Get Well Soon Club, and by the end I felt like Ethel, Shirley, Freddy, and Bartholomew were my friends. The book was full of joy and laughter and while there were moments of sadness in there too, it was still tinged with love and warmth.
Marianne was a great character and though she's written as merely socially awkward, I would definitely feel like she would also be on the spectrum. I love how she slowly got involved with the group and warmed up to everyone and how they all loved her and she loved them back.
The way the group interacted, loved and depended on each other reminded me of The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society.
Really recommend this book!
When Marianne's husband leaves her for another woman, and she ends up shoplifting (she only does it when she's stressed!) which results in her losing her job, she has to move back to her childhood home. Now she's forced to get involved with her mother Rita's wacky antics which include running a group called the Get Well Soon Club (a more eccentric version of AA), and Marianne soon finds herself enjoying her days at home instead of mourning the loss of her old, organised life.
This book was just what I needed this week, and made a bad start to the week into a lovely finish! It felt like a tonic due to the weird and wonderful characters I was introduced to though Marianne's integration into the Get Well Soon Club, and by the end I felt like Ethel, Shirley, Freddy, and Bartholomew were my friends. The book was full of joy and laughter and while there were moments of sadness in there too, it was still tinged with love and warmth.
Marianne was a great character and though she's written as merely socially awkward, I would definitely feel like she would also be on the spectrum. I love how she slowly got involved with the group and warmed up to everyone and how they all loved her and she loved them back.
The way the group interacted, loved and depended on each other reminded me of The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society.
Really recommend this book!
January 31, 2021
This book really draws you in- wanting to find out how the story unfolds and more about the wonderful characters. Marianne has to return to her childhood home after her well ordered life unravels. Her mum is a real character- eccentric but with a heart of gold. After a difficult time , she has turned her issues into a crusade to help other people with a drink problem. Marriane had a strained relationship with Rita, due to the issues with drink when she was a child. There are some heartwarming moments where they slowly get to rebuild their relationship and come to an understanding. Marriane resists her mums efforts to start emerging from her old life- but Rita doesn't accept no.
The house setting sounds idyllic, right on the beach which has it's own healing properties. i was so sad to come to the end of this book.
The house setting sounds idyllic, right on the beach which has it's own healing properties. i was so sad to come to the end of this book.
November 29, 2021
A life affirming read, especially if you've ever felt a little bit different in your life. Or have tried to hard to fit.
The lively characters stole my heart, and I loved all their quirks and individual back stories. The main character, Marianne, is a shell of a person at the start of the book, her life has crashed around her, and she has to return home to live with her eccentric mother. Which is a disaster for her, as she hates home and ran hard from there as soon as she could. Her mother lives life to her own rules, and Marianne just wants to live life according to what the world expects.
But slowly as the layers are peeled back, we learn what made her that way and watch her rebuild a more satisfying life. I turned the pages, silently cheering her on in my heart. And fell in love with the setting, the dog, and every misfit in the book along the way.
Highly recommended, especially if you love unique characters and poignant plotlines (with lots of humour thrown in the mix too).
Thanks to Harper Collins for giving me a copy of this book for review consideration. As always, no matter what the source of the book, you get my honest, unbiased opinion.
The lively characters stole my heart, and I loved all their quirks and individual back stories. The main character, Marianne, is a shell of a person at the start of the book, her life has crashed around her, and she has to return home to live with her eccentric mother. Which is a disaster for her, as she hates home and ran hard from there as soon as she could. Her mother lives life to her own rules, and Marianne just wants to live life according to what the world expects.
But slowly as the layers are peeled back, we learn what made her that way and watch her rebuild a more satisfying life. I turned the pages, silently cheering her on in my heart. And fell in love with the setting, the dog, and every misfit in the book along the way.
Highly recommended, especially if you love unique characters and poignant plotlines (with lots of humour thrown in the mix too).
Thanks to Harper Collins for giving me a copy of this book for review consideration. As always, no matter what the source of the book, you get my honest, unbiased opinion.
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March 27, 2021I couldn’t get into this book at all! I loved all of Ciara Geraghtys other books. I’m a bit disappointed I couldn’t get into the story or warm to the characters but hey you call them win them all!
I will still be keeping an eye out for her books.
I will still be keeping an eye out for her books.
October 13, 2021
This book was just meh - I didn’t dislike it but I wouldn’t lick up again. Generally made me feel sad
February 9, 2021
Make Yourself at Home by Ciara Geraghty was just published February 4th with Harper Collins Ireland and is described as ‘the new most emotional and uplifting book of 2021’ It is very much a story about self-discovery, and about finding out what is really important in life, as seen through the eyes of Marianne Cross after her perfect and ordered life comes off the tracks.
Marianne was a very successful accountant, a hard worker and married to Brian. But at thirty five, her life came crashing down. Brian left her for another woman, Marianne lost her job, defaulted on her mortgage and, with her professional reputation in tatters, had no option but to return to the home of her childhood, Ancaire, where her mother Rita lived. Marianne had not lived with her mother since she was fifteen, having left for boarding school and never returning. Marianne’s path had changed forever following an incident in her teens, one that had a huge impact on her choices and the trajectory of her life. Marianne studied hard and kept herself to herself developing a reputation as a loner through her subsequent college years. Finishing top of the class, she could have had the pick of jobs but Marianne chose one that allowed her the luxury of working from home. Marianne did not like the company of others. Structure was very important to her and locking herself away from the outside world as much as possible helped to protect Marianne from any potential hurt and pain. When her company brought all their workers back into the office, Marianne had to succumb and it was there that she met Brian. He was a like-minded spirit and it made sense for them to connect up. They lived a very ordered life which Marianne thought suited Brian but, one day, Brian decided he wanted more. Suddenly Marianne was left with no choice but to return to Ancaire.
Ancaire was a crumbling home located very close to a cliff edge off the east coast of Ireland. Marianne had lived there with her tempestuous and eccentric parents and her younger sister Flo. Her parents partied hard and fought even harder with a passion that left very little room for anything else. But now Rita, Marianne’s mother, although still an eccentric, has given up the drink and runs an alcoholic anonymous group from her home, the Get Well Soon programme. A small number of regular attendees come to meetings daily, all soaking up the positivity that Rita now exudes. Her home is a haven, a place these people can do a variety of activities and be comforted by others who are all suffering in life.
Marianne wants absolutely nothing to do with this rather eclectic bunch of people. She is only back living in Ancaire while she figures out her next move. But what is it out of life that Marianne really wants? Marianne is a wonderfully drawn character. She is socially awkward following years of introverted behaviour. Her relationship with Rita is cracked, scarred from those early childhood years but Rita attempts to fill those cracks and repair some of the damage caused. But is it too little too late?
Make Yourself at Home is a beautiful uplifting read with a host of personalities that will warm your heart. It was very easy to get caught up in the story of all their lives, gradually getting to know them all a little better. Rita’s history as a mother leaves a lot to be desired so not only does she need to convince Marianne that she has changed, she also has to convince the reader. Rita is a recovering alcoholic who wants to make amends for her previous ways. Aware that Marianne’s visit to Ancaire may only be fleeting, she sets about doing her best to involve Marianne, to open her up and break that shell that is a permanent fixture of protection surrounding Marianne. Their relationship is very fragile and as they tentatively step into each other's bubble, the world opens up a little. Ciara Geraghty is very much drawn to the sea and her passion for it shines through in the stunning descriptions of the wildness of an Irish beach no matter the season. The saltiness emanates off the pages as does the tantalising smells from the kitchen. Rita is an avid cook who loves nothing more than feeding anyone who arrives through her front door. There is a gorgeous treat for all readers at the back of the book so get ready to shake out your aprons and dust off your sieves!
Make Yourself at Home is a heart-warming and emotional read that you will get lost in. A bewitching cast of characters and a wonderful storyline, Ciara Geraghty has written another stellar read that will capture your heart as you root for Marianne and Rita and hope they find the peace and the love they both so crave. Packed with humour and many thought-provoking moments, Make Yourself at Home is a truly beautiful read, a feel-good read.
Marianne was a very successful accountant, a hard worker and married to Brian. But at thirty five, her life came crashing down. Brian left her for another woman, Marianne lost her job, defaulted on her mortgage and, with her professional reputation in tatters, had no option but to return to the home of her childhood, Ancaire, where her mother Rita lived. Marianne had not lived with her mother since she was fifteen, having left for boarding school and never returning. Marianne’s path had changed forever following an incident in her teens, one that had a huge impact on her choices and the trajectory of her life. Marianne studied hard and kept herself to herself developing a reputation as a loner through her subsequent college years. Finishing top of the class, she could have had the pick of jobs but Marianne chose one that allowed her the luxury of working from home. Marianne did not like the company of others. Structure was very important to her and locking herself away from the outside world as much as possible helped to protect Marianne from any potential hurt and pain. When her company brought all their workers back into the office, Marianne had to succumb and it was there that she met Brian. He was a like-minded spirit and it made sense for them to connect up. They lived a very ordered life which Marianne thought suited Brian but, one day, Brian decided he wanted more. Suddenly Marianne was left with no choice but to return to Ancaire.
Ancaire was a crumbling home located very close to a cliff edge off the east coast of Ireland. Marianne had lived there with her tempestuous and eccentric parents and her younger sister Flo. Her parents partied hard and fought even harder with a passion that left very little room for anything else. But now Rita, Marianne’s mother, although still an eccentric, has given up the drink and runs an alcoholic anonymous group from her home, the Get Well Soon programme. A small number of regular attendees come to meetings daily, all soaking up the positivity that Rita now exudes. Her home is a haven, a place these people can do a variety of activities and be comforted by others who are all suffering in life.
Marianne wants absolutely nothing to do with this rather eclectic bunch of people. She is only back living in Ancaire while she figures out her next move. But what is it out of life that Marianne really wants? Marianne is a wonderfully drawn character. She is socially awkward following years of introverted behaviour. Her relationship with Rita is cracked, scarred from those early childhood years but Rita attempts to fill those cracks and repair some of the damage caused. But is it too little too late?
Make Yourself at Home is a beautiful uplifting read with a host of personalities that will warm your heart. It was very easy to get caught up in the story of all their lives, gradually getting to know them all a little better. Rita’s history as a mother leaves a lot to be desired so not only does she need to convince Marianne that she has changed, she also has to convince the reader. Rita is a recovering alcoholic who wants to make amends for her previous ways. Aware that Marianne’s visit to Ancaire may only be fleeting, she sets about doing her best to involve Marianne, to open her up and break that shell that is a permanent fixture of protection surrounding Marianne. Their relationship is very fragile and as they tentatively step into each other's bubble, the world opens up a little. Ciara Geraghty is very much drawn to the sea and her passion for it shines through in the stunning descriptions of the wildness of an Irish beach no matter the season. The saltiness emanates off the pages as does the tantalising smells from the kitchen. Rita is an avid cook who loves nothing more than feeding anyone who arrives through her front door. There is a gorgeous treat for all readers at the back of the book so get ready to shake out your aprons and dust off your sieves!
Make Yourself at Home is a heart-warming and emotional read that you will get lost in. A bewitching cast of characters and a wonderful storyline, Ciara Geraghty has written another stellar read that will capture your heart as you root for Marianne and Rita and hope they find the peace and the love they both so crave. Packed with humour and many thought-provoking moments, Make Yourself at Home is a truly beautiful read, a feel-good read.
October 3, 2021
A cast of eccentric characters find being unique has challenges but learning to overcome obstacles and be accepting to themselves and others make for a happier life.
April 2, 2022
A new Author for me.
3🌟’s A feel good light on the drama story which matches my mood for reading lately. The story line was good, just took me a while to get into the story itself.
3🌟’s A feel good light on the drama story which matches my mood for reading lately. The story line was good, just took me a while to get into the story itself.
July 16, 2021
Marianne left home and family at fifteen, she ran away to forget everything and everyone except her little sister who died in an accident.
This Marianne never forgave her mother, Rita, eccentric artist, out of the box, non-conformist and alcohol addicted.
Marianne hated the house on the cliff, in Ancaire, where she grew up, her parents' eccentricities and friends, their lifestyle, even their taste in furniture.
And most of all, the kids who came into the house in temporary foster care, and even more so Patrick, one of those kids, who stayed and became part of the family.
So she threw everything behind her, run away from everything, started all over again. She planned her whole future and she achieved it: a job as an accountant, a beautiful house in the middle of "civilization", a husband who does not ask for children nor a simple "I love you" and the thing is mutual, so, it's fine.
But not so well, in reality, because all Marianne's demons are concentrated in an addiction, kleptomania, because of which she lost her good name and her job, and her husband, Brian, left her to chase the dream of those children and of that "I love you" that Marianne never said by the side of another woman.
All in a sudden Marianne loses everything, job, home, husband, she has nowhere to go, she doesn't know what to do with her life, she no longer has any security.
All she has left is to fall back on that house on the cliff that she has always hated, where her mother, the aunt and Patrick live and where everything reminds her of her little sister Flo.
Now her mother has come out of the alcoholic tunnel and is doing her best to help other people in need like her, she even has a group of "survivors" who occupy their house almost all day long.
And then...and then I won't tell you any more...read it and find it out 😄.
As is the case with many in life, preconceptions and certainties are often swept away in a moment to make way for something good and will be the same for Marianne.
Marianne will understand that "home" is not a place you want others to admire, recognizing your abilities to let it stand out, home is a place in your heart.
This Marianne never forgave her mother, Rita, eccentric artist, out of the box, non-conformist and alcohol addicted.
Marianne hated the house on the cliff, in Ancaire, where she grew up, her parents' eccentricities and friends, their lifestyle, even their taste in furniture.
And most of all, the kids who came into the house in temporary foster care, and even more so Patrick, one of those kids, who stayed and became part of the family.
So she threw everything behind her, run away from everything, started all over again. She planned her whole future and she achieved it: a job as an accountant, a beautiful house in the middle of "civilization", a husband who does not ask for children nor a simple "I love you" and the thing is mutual, so, it's fine.
But not so well, in reality, because all Marianne's demons are concentrated in an addiction, kleptomania, because of which she lost her good name and her job, and her husband, Brian, left her to chase the dream of those children and of that "I love you" that Marianne never said by the side of another woman.
All in a sudden Marianne loses everything, job, home, husband, she has nowhere to go, she doesn't know what to do with her life, she no longer has any security.
All she has left is to fall back on that house on the cliff that she has always hated, where her mother, the aunt and Patrick live and where everything reminds her of her little sister Flo.
Now her mother has come out of the alcoholic tunnel and is doing her best to help other people in need like her, she even has a group of "survivors" who occupy their house almost all day long.
And then...and then I won't tell you any more...read it and find it out 😄.
As is the case with many in life, preconceptions and certainties are often swept away in a moment to make way for something good and will be the same for Marianne.
Marianne will understand that "home" is not a place you want others to admire, recognizing your abilities to let it stand out, home is a place in your heart.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 15, 2021
3.5 stars
Fleeing an upbringing of chaotic trauma, with fighting alcoholic parents and foster children in and out Marianne now lives a life of controlled order. A successful accountant, married, with both not wanting children and living in a new build house in a respectable area.
Then her husband leaves her for another woman going against their plans by having the audacity to have children with her and Marianne’s life falls apart. Mortgaged to the hilt and losing her job due to getting caught shoplifting, it’s being repossessed. So with her meagre possessions she goes back to where she fled from so many years before. Ancaire her crumbling childhood home perched on a cliff edge.
The first page was such a clever insight into Marianne, by using numbers to lay out her life it pulled me in straight away. I wasn’t entirely sure if I liked her but I understood her and her need for order. Her mother Rita however I adored instantly and it was difficult to see how they could possibly be related as they were so very different.
Her mother is now a recovering alcoholic and deciding she didn’t like the AA approach to recovery has set up her own group The Get Well Sooners. They seem to have set up residence and along with Aunt Pearl, Patrick the foster kid who never left and a giant taxi driver called Hugh this colourful cast of characters worm their way into Marianne’s heart as well as the readers.
The setting is so evocative, the coldness and the decaying of the house perfectly represented the mother daughter relationship. Food plays a big part too with Rita using it as a way to approach her daughter and welcome others, so it was really nice to see some recipes added at the end. I will definitely be making Aunt Pearl’s soup.
The author has lightly penned some heavy topics and created a book that manages to bring warmth despite the cold.
Fleeing an upbringing of chaotic trauma, with fighting alcoholic parents and foster children in and out Marianne now lives a life of controlled order. A successful accountant, married, with both not wanting children and living in a new build house in a respectable area.
Then her husband leaves her for another woman going against their plans by having the audacity to have children with her and Marianne’s life falls apart. Mortgaged to the hilt and losing her job due to getting caught shoplifting, it’s being repossessed. So with her meagre possessions she goes back to where she fled from so many years before. Ancaire her crumbling childhood home perched on a cliff edge.
The first page was such a clever insight into Marianne, by using numbers to lay out her life it pulled me in straight away. I wasn’t entirely sure if I liked her but I understood her and her need for order. Her mother Rita however I adored instantly and it was difficult to see how they could possibly be related as they were so very different.
Her mother is now a recovering alcoholic and deciding she didn’t like the AA approach to recovery has set up her own group The Get Well Sooners. They seem to have set up residence and along with Aunt Pearl, Patrick the foster kid who never left and a giant taxi driver called Hugh this colourful cast of characters worm their way into Marianne’s heart as well as the readers.
The setting is so evocative, the coldness and the decaying of the house perfectly represented the mother daughter relationship. Food plays a big part too with Rita using it as a way to approach her daughter and welcome others, so it was really nice to see some recipes added at the end. I will definitely be making Aunt Pearl’s soup.
The author has lightly penned some heavy topics and created a book that manages to bring warmth despite the cold.
March 9, 2021
Ancaire, Marianne's family home, is as much a character as any of the people who appear in Geraghty's latest novel. There is something magical, mysterious, and inviting about this ramshackle house set on the Irish east coast that draws the reader in. Marianne, on the other hand, hates it. It harbours nothing but difficult memories of her childhood and the tragic death of her younger sister.
Poor Marianne is after having a desperate run of it. Her fella has left her for someone else, she can't stop shoplifting, which lands her in court, and eventually, the bank takes her house.
She slinks home to live with her eccentric, recovering alcoholic mother Rita, her formidable and zero craic aunt, and her not-quite-brother-but-pretty-much-brother, just until she gets herself sorted mind you.
What follows is Marianne's heartwarming recovery surrounded by entertaining characters, mostly members of Rita's DIY AA group. I feel the little mentions of Marianne's accountant-like habits, or quirks is worth a nod. They made me smile more than once!
I went to bed at 9.30pm to get an early night and finished this book four hours later. So that's a thumbs up from me! It was a welcome change of pace from my last few reads. Yes, it borders on cheesy at times but overall it's an easy read with enjoyable characters.
Poor Marianne is after having a desperate run of it. Her fella has left her for someone else, she can't stop shoplifting, which lands her in court, and eventually, the bank takes her house.
She slinks home to live with her eccentric, recovering alcoholic mother Rita, her formidable and zero craic aunt, and her not-quite-brother-but-pretty-much-brother, just until she gets herself sorted mind you.
What follows is Marianne's heartwarming recovery surrounded by entertaining characters, mostly members of Rita's DIY AA group. I feel the little mentions of Marianne's accountant-like habits, or quirks is worth a nod. They made me smile more than once!
I went to bed at 9.30pm to get an early night and finished this book four hours later. So that's a thumbs up from me! It was a welcome change of pace from my last few reads. Yes, it borders on cheesy at times but overall it's an easy read with enjoyable characters.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 23, 2021
I cannot tell you how much I loved this book, I mean I really, really loved this book! Marianne and her mum Rita could not be more different. Marianne is careful, overthinks everything and takes life very seriously. Rita flies through life on a wing and a prayer, her wardrobe is outstandingly glam and she runs a Get Well Soon programme for recuperation from alcoholism (she didn’t think that AA was upbeat enough).
Marianne and Rita are just two characters in a cast of exceptional and wonderful characters. This book features an ensemble of people I grew to love, care about and am now dying to hang out with. It’s rare for me to read a book where I like all the characters, but with this one I truly did. I laughed alongside them (out loud, like a lunatic), I cheered with them (fist bumping the air) and I cried with them (tears dribbling on the pages) I always know a book is special when it can provoke such reactions from me.
Make Yourself at Home will warm the coldest depths of any heart, it’s a great big cuddle in book form. It’s an uplifting, beautiful read and I was bereft when it finished. Ciara Geraghty is a superb writer with a wicked sense of humour and an incredible ability to bring her characters to life. This is a big fat must read!
Marianne and Rita are just two characters in a cast of exceptional and wonderful characters. This book features an ensemble of people I grew to love, care about and am now dying to hang out with. It’s rare for me to read a book where I like all the characters, but with this one I truly did. I laughed alongside them (out loud, like a lunatic), I cheered with them (fist bumping the air) and I cried with them (tears dribbling on the pages) I always know a book is special when it can provoke such reactions from me.
Make Yourself at Home will warm the coldest depths of any heart, it’s a great big cuddle in book form. It’s an uplifting, beautiful read and I was bereft when it finished. Ciara Geraghty is a superb writer with a wicked sense of humour and an incredible ability to bring her characters to life. This is a big fat must read!
September 2, 2021
An uptight and rather intolerant Marianne has been forced to return to her childhood home after her marriage collapses and she loses her job and her home. This is the last place she wants to be having never had a happy relationship with her parents who drank and fought their way through her formative years. She left aged fifteen never expecting to return.
Her mother, Rita, now a widow has given up the booze and set up a support group, Get Well Soon, for fellow addicts. Marianne wants as little as possible to do with any of them. What she doesn't realise is that this rag, tag and bobtail group may be just what she needs as she comes to terms with her new life.
This was a really heartwarming read, beautifully written with wonderful characters who go straight to your heart. Their humanity just leaps off the pages. There is humour and sadness in this exploration of addiction, love, renegotiation of relationships and self realisation. It is ultimately an uplifting novel I recommend it very highly.
Thank you to NetGalley and Harper Fiction for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Her mother, Rita, now a widow has given up the booze and set up a support group, Get Well Soon, for fellow addicts. Marianne wants as little as possible to do with any of them. What she doesn't realise is that this rag, tag and bobtail group may be just what she needs as she comes to terms with her new life.
This was a really heartwarming read, beautifully written with wonderful characters who go straight to your heart. Their humanity just leaps off the pages. There is humour and sadness in this exploration of addiction, love, renegotiation of relationships and self realisation. It is ultimately an uplifting novel I recommend it very highly.
Thank you to NetGalley and Harper Fiction for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
July 11, 2023
Didn't like this much at all. The main character, through her own faults, has to move back in with her mother whom she blames for her sister's death twenty five years prior to the events of the book. The main character, Marianne, is an absolute troll to everyone she meets and has little to no redeeming traits.
July 24, 2021
Chick lit. Easy light story..
February 18, 2021
Marianne used to be married and a successful accountant but then, at thirty – five, her world has been turned upside down. Brian, her husband, has left her for another woman and then Marianne has lost her job and, with no financial support, lost her house as well. There is no other option for her – even though she has left her childhood home in Ancaire at fifteen after a tragic accident, promising never to come back there – she must go home, to her mother. Marianne has never got a good relationship with her parents who have partied hard and fought hard. Now, Rita, Marianne’s mother, has given up the drink and is running an alcoholic anonymous group, the Get Well Soon programme, direct from her home. Marianne wants nothing to do with this eclectic and troubled people – but what if they want to have something to do with her?
The characters were really wonderful – I think. All of them, the main and background ones had great personalities and every single one of them had their own story that was full of depth and real problems. What I really liked is that they never lost hope and moved on and how they were taking others with them on this journey in their difficult times, almost never taking no for an answer. It needs a lot of self - denial and I really admired this in them.
Marianne was a very complex character and even though I couldn’t so completely warm to her, I could appreciate where she was coming from and her development. The incident that happened when she was a teenager, has impacted her in a huge way and it burdens her still, all the time. She’s rather a loner and doesn’t need the company of other people, this is why the Get – Well – Sooners are such a shock to her. Her mum, after my initial issues, turned out to be an eccentric with a heart of gold, who, after fighting her own plenty battles, decided to help other people with drinking problem. The relationship between Marianne and Rita was a very complex and complicated one, filled with misunderstandings and regrets and the author has really, really well captured it, bringing the dynamics to life, showing it in its true light. There were some poignant and heartwarming moments as well when they were trying to rebuild their broken relationship. Did they manage? With Marianne determined to stay in her shell and Rita not taking no for an answer?
The setting is gorgeous and idyllic, with a beach close to the house. The house itself was a character on its own, being so old and crumbled, staying very close to a cliff edge. The desriptions of the sea are gorgoeus and the smells from the kitchen jump off the pages. There is also a brilliant humour added to the story and some of the moments and dialouges made me chuckling to myself as it was very easy to imagine those situations – this all thanks to the writing style that was very rich.
I am not sure why but the way the book was built didn’t work for me. I mean, it was a brilliant, thought – provoking and moving story but I had a feeling I am smothered with words, that I’m talked at instead of being shown. I’ve never been drawn into the story, never felt captivated by the characters and what’s going to happen with them – I am really, truly sad about this because I had huge expectations, although I suppose it was me this time and not the book. I just wanted to make it hurry, for something to happen, though it is not this kind of book, it is more about individual development and self – discovery, about finding your two feet again. It’s for sure a beautiful story and it pains me that I didn’t appreciate it as I should have.
It’s a story dealing with and exploring many deep issues: grief, drink and mental problems, theft to name only a few – and they are dealt with understanding, patience, in a subtle way but also with humour.
I am sure you’re going to love and appreciate this book more than I did, as it is a heart – warming, emotional read that will tug at your heart – strings. It’s poignant and witty, packed with thought – provoking moments and tons of heart.
Copy provided by the publisher in return for an honest review.
The characters were really wonderful – I think. All of them, the main and background ones had great personalities and every single one of them had their own story that was full of depth and real problems. What I really liked is that they never lost hope and moved on and how they were taking others with them on this journey in their difficult times, almost never taking no for an answer. It needs a lot of self - denial and I really admired this in them.
Marianne was a very complex character and even though I couldn’t so completely warm to her, I could appreciate where she was coming from and her development. The incident that happened when she was a teenager, has impacted her in a huge way and it burdens her still, all the time. She’s rather a loner and doesn’t need the company of other people, this is why the Get – Well – Sooners are such a shock to her. Her mum, after my initial issues, turned out to be an eccentric with a heart of gold, who, after fighting her own plenty battles, decided to help other people with drinking problem. The relationship between Marianne and Rita was a very complex and complicated one, filled with misunderstandings and regrets and the author has really, really well captured it, bringing the dynamics to life, showing it in its true light. There were some poignant and heartwarming moments as well when they were trying to rebuild their broken relationship. Did they manage? With Marianne determined to stay in her shell and Rita not taking no for an answer?
The setting is gorgeous and idyllic, with a beach close to the house. The house itself was a character on its own, being so old and crumbled, staying very close to a cliff edge. The desriptions of the sea are gorgoeus and the smells from the kitchen jump off the pages. There is also a brilliant humour added to the story and some of the moments and dialouges made me chuckling to myself as it was very easy to imagine those situations – this all thanks to the writing style that was very rich.
I am not sure why but the way the book was built didn’t work for me. I mean, it was a brilliant, thought – provoking and moving story but I had a feeling I am smothered with words, that I’m talked at instead of being shown. I’ve never been drawn into the story, never felt captivated by the characters and what’s going to happen with them – I am really, truly sad about this because I had huge expectations, although I suppose it was me this time and not the book. I just wanted to make it hurry, for something to happen, though it is not this kind of book, it is more about individual development and self – discovery, about finding your two feet again. It’s for sure a beautiful story and it pains me that I didn’t appreciate it as I should have.
It’s a story dealing with and exploring many deep issues: grief, drink and mental problems, theft to name only a few – and they are dealt with understanding, patience, in a subtle way but also with humour.
I am sure you’re going to love and appreciate this book more than I did, as it is a heart – warming, emotional read that will tug at your heart – strings. It’s poignant and witty, packed with thought – provoking moments and tons of heart.
Copy provided by the publisher in return for an honest review.
June 8, 2021
Having read and enjoyed Ciara Geraghty’s books in the past, I went into this story fully expecting to love it too. I was not prepared for how much Marianne’s tale would capture me, keep me enthralled, and make me think.
On the surface, this is the story about a woman coming to terms with the unexpected demise of her marriage and the troubled relationship with her mother, and that would have made an interesting story.
Scratch that surface just a little, and you’ll find so much more. Marianne put her feelings on hold when she was a teenager. From that moment forward her decisions have been based on practical considerations rather than emotions. It was safe and, for some time, her distant approach to life and connections worked. She seemed to have it all: a practical husband who appeared to be as eager as she was to keep emotions at bay, a good and safe job, a beautiful house, furnished to her exact and unexciting standards. She’s created an environment in which she can pretend she is fine, her life is good, and the past is an ugly but distant memory.
When her house of cards falls apart, Marianne crumbles too. With all her securities torn away she has no choice but to return to the past, the house, and the mother, she’s avoided for more than half her life.
Going home for Marianne is like returning to the setting of a nightmare. Back at Ancaire (Anker—such an appropriate name), Marianne doesn’t try to be nice or take care of herself. She resents others trying to take care of her and puts as much distance between herself and her mother’s life as she can, given they’re sharing a house and her mother’s full-on approach to life.
Between Rita’s joie de vivre, the mixed bag of characters that make up Rita’s group of recovering alcoholics, and a persistent dog, Marianne appears to be coming back from the brink. Almost against her wishes, Marianne finds herself getting involved with causes and interested in people again. Until a shocking discovery throws her back to what appears to be square one.
This story packs a punch, yet it is written so well and so smoothly that the reader could almost miss that rather than an angry and selfish woman, Marianne is a lost soul who has struggled with depression ever since she was fifteen—for so long, in fact, that she doesn’t recognise her actions and reactions as a mental health issue.
For a very long time, Marianne reads as an unsympathetic main character whereas her mother appears to be a bundle of joy. And that’s where the beauty of this story comes fully to light. Because nothing is that simple and, just as Marianne is pulled out of her self-isolation almost against her wishes and in barely perceptible steps, I was surprised to find myself first sympathising with her and then understanding her actions and thoughts. This story and the characters in it are real and raw. They crawled their way under my skin. I wasn’t just interested in how their story might end, I was invested in their journey and its outcome.
I love that the book didn’t end on miracles. Instead, we’re given a scattering of possibilities, glimmers of hope, and potential futures. And while the above may make you think that Make Yourself at Home is a heavy and possibly depressing read, the opposite is through. Marianne’s darkest moments are balanced by the very mixed and mostly unfiltered company she keeps. For every painful experience, there is at least one laugh-out-loud moment. And Marianne’s journey is not only beautiful to behold but inspirational too.
Long story short: Make Yourself at Home is an amazing read. It will make you think and feel, but most of all, it will ultimately lift you up and leave you with a satisfied smile on your face. This book is exactly what I needed to fight my 18-month long reading slump.
On the surface, this is the story about a woman coming to terms with the unexpected demise of her marriage and the troubled relationship with her mother, and that would have made an interesting story.
Scratch that surface just a little, and you’ll find so much more. Marianne put her feelings on hold when she was a teenager. From that moment forward her decisions have been based on practical considerations rather than emotions. It was safe and, for some time, her distant approach to life and connections worked. She seemed to have it all: a practical husband who appeared to be as eager as she was to keep emotions at bay, a good and safe job, a beautiful house, furnished to her exact and unexciting standards. She’s created an environment in which she can pretend she is fine, her life is good, and the past is an ugly but distant memory.
When her house of cards falls apart, Marianne crumbles too. With all her securities torn away she has no choice but to return to the past, the house, and the mother, she’s avoided for more than half her life.
Going home for Marianne is like returning to the setting of a nightmare. Back at Ancaire (Anker—such an appropriate name), Marianne doesn’t try to be nice or take care of herself. She resents others trying to take care of her and puts as much distance between herself and her mother’s life as she can, given they’re sharing a house and her mother’s full-on approach to life.
Between Rita’s joie de vivre, the mixed bag of characters that make up Rita’s group of recovering alcoholics, and a persistent dog, Marianne appears to be coming back from the brink. Almost against her wishes, Marianne finds herself getting involved with causes and interested in people again. Until a shocking discovery throws her back to what appears to be square one.
This story packs a punch, yet it is written so well and so smoothly that the reader could almost miss that rather than an angry and selfish woman, Marianne is a lost soul who has struggled with depression ever since she was fifteen—for so long, in fact, that she doesn’t recognise her actions and reactions as a mental health issue.
For a very long time, Marianne reads as an unsympathetic main character whereas her mother appears to be a bundle of joy. And that’s where the beauty of this story comes fully to light. Because nothing is that simple and, just as Marianne is pulled out of her self-isolation almost against her wishes and in barely perceptible steps, I was surprised to find myself first sympathising with her and then understanding her actions and thoughts. This story and the characters in it are real and raw. They crawled their way under my skin. I wasn’t just interested in how their story might end, I was invested in their journey and its outcome.
I love that the book didn’t end on miracles. Instead, we’re given a scattering of possibilities, glimmers of hope, and potential futures. And while the above may make you think that Make Yourself at Home is a heavy and possibly depressing read, the opposite is through. Marianne’s darkest moments are balanced by the very mixed and mostly unfiltered company she keeps. For every painful experience, there is at least one laugh-out-loud moment. And Marianne’s journey is not only beautiful to behold but inspirational too.
Long story short: Make Yourself at Home is an amazing read. It will make you think and feel, but most of all, it will ultimately lift you up and leave you with a satisfied smile on your face. This book is exactly what I needed to fight my 18-month long reading slump.
September 13, 2021
Marianne is a numbers person. She wants routine, predictability and order. Her marriage was based on it - she met Brian at work, they were suited in their love of order, she organised their home and life with calm efficiency. When things go wrong she has to return to the family home, a ramshackle building full of memories and, it emerges, people. Everything and everyone seems like a challenge to a woman who likes order, but will the people her remarkable mother Rita introduces her to become important in her life?
This is a book which has a lot of gentle humour which mainly emerges from the fantastic characters that appear throughout the novel. From the colourful Rita who runs a group called Get Well Soon which tackles addiction in a positive way, through Aunt Pearl who has strict views and a secret passion for romantic novels, to the huge Hugh, Scottish immigrant to the the wild coastal area of Ireland where Marianne and Rita’s family home is situated. The house is called Ancaire and almost becomes another character in the novel, with its many rooms, coldness and space which welcomes so many people. This is a novel that looks at the relationships between mother and daughter, friends and family, memories and how life can be more than what people expect. I was pleased to have the opportunity to read and review this entertaining contemporary novel.
When Marianne arrives at Ancaire she has lost her husband who has a new partner with twins on the way, her home which she filled with carefully chosen furniture, and her job owing to her tendency to shoplift. The house is cold, her mother’s offers of food are unwanted, and she despairs of the strange assortment of people that seem to turn up. The house seems haunted by memories of a younger sister who Marianne seemed to be especially close to, especially when Rita and their father were both excitable artists who enjoyed alcohol and parties far more than family life. Now Rita is sober, and is trying to help others take a positive view of life. There is also Patrick, to whom Rita seems very close, a foster son who seems to care deeply for Marianne’s mother. Marianne is convinced that she wants nothing to do with the unusual setup in her family home, but knows that she has no alternative, no plans for her future, and no choice but stay put. Will the memories, the people and the house itself be enough to change everything for Marianne, or is the past just too powerful?
This is a deceptively deep novel of family love and the importance of friendships. Marianne is a well drawn character, who knows her limitations too well, and does not see her way out of her current predicament. The remarkable house is an important element in the house, especially with its proximity to the beach. The clothes that people wear, from the tracksuit bottoms that Marianne adopts for warmth and comfort, the kilt which Hugh wears right through to Rita’s “rig outs” have so much to say about the characters. This is a cleverly written book in which the author seems to enjoy creating and developing characters who are so distinctive. I enjoyed this book and appreciated its depth as well as its humour, its characters and so much else.
This is a book which has a lot of gentle humour which mainly emerges from the fantastic characters that appear throughout the novel. From the colourful Rita who runs a group called Get Well Soon which tackles addiction in a positive way, through Aunt Pearl who has strict views and a secret passion for romantic novels, to the huge Hugh, Scottish immigrant to the the wild coastal area of Ireland where Marianne and Rita’s family home is situated. The house is called Ancaire and almost becomes another character in the novel, with its many rooms, coldness and space which welcomes so many people. This is a novel that looks at the relationships between mother and daughter, friends and family, memories and how life can be more than what people expect. I was pleased to have the opportunity to read and review this entertaining contemporary novel.
When Marianne arrives at Ancaire she has lost her husband who has a new partner with twins on the way, her home which she filled with carefully chosen furniture, and her job owing to her tendency to shoplift. The house is cold, her mother’s offers of food are unwanted, and she despairs of the strange assortment of people that seem to turn up. The house seems haunted by memories of a younger sister who Marianne seemed to be especially close to, especially when Rita and their father were both excitable artists who enjoyed alcohol and parties far more than family life. Now Rita is sober, and is trying to help others take a positive view of life. There is also Patrick, to whom Rita seems very close, a foster son who seems to care deeply for Marianne’s mother. Marianne is convinced that she wants nothing to do with the unusual setup in her family home, but knows that she has no alternative, no plans for her future, and no choice but stay put. Will the memories, the people and the house itself be enough to change everything for Marianne, or is the past just too powerful?
This is a deceptively deep novel of family love and the importance of friendships. Marianne is a well drawn character, who knows her limitations too well, and does not see her way out of her current predicament. The remarkable house is an important element in the house, especially with its proximity to the beach. The clothes that people wear, from the tracksuit bottoms that Marianne adopts for warmth and comfort, the kilt which Hugh wears right through to Rita’s “rig outs” have so much to say about the characters. This is a cleverly written book in which the author seems to enjoy creating and developing characters who are so distinctive. I enjoyed this book and appreciated its depth as well as its humour, its characters and so much else.
September 9, 2021
Thank you to NetGalley and Harper Collins UK for the opportunity to read and review a copy of Make Yourself at Home by Ciara Geraghty.
Marianne’s life has fallen apart, her husband has left her, she has no home, no job, and nothing to look forward to and she begrudgingly has no choice but to move back in with her Mum. Rita lives in an old, dilapidated house placed precariously on a cliff-top, overlooking the Irish Sea, and lives for her Get-Well-Sooners, a motley bunch of recovering alcoholics who she is intent on helping to regain their lives.
As the story progresses, Marianne transforms from a lonely young woman with no friends and a bleak future, to the heart and soul of Ancaire, the childhood house she used to call home. She forges friendships that will last a lifetime and might even find a little love along the way.
Geraghty has written an awesome story and takes the readers deep into the hearts of her characters, along with some sad memories and traumatic moments comes forgiveness, happiness, and most of all, acceptance. This makes the reader appreciate we should all accept our family and friends for who they are and how they will be influential in helping you become the person you want to be.
For readers who enjoy Sheila O’Flanagan and Marian Keyes, Make Yourself at Home will worm its way into your soul and stay there.
Marianne’s life has fallen apart, her husband has left her, she has no home, no job, and nothing to look forward to and she begrudgingly has no choice but to move back in with her Mum. Rita lives in an old, dilapidated house placed precariously on a cliff-top, overlooking the Irish Sea, and lives for her Get-Well-Sooners, a motley bunch of recovering alcoholics who she is intent on helping to regain their lives.
As the story progresses, Marianne transforms from a lonely young woman with no friends and a bleak future, to the heart and soul of Ancaire, the childhood house she used to call home. She forges friendships that will last a lifetime and might even find a little love along the way.
Geraghty has written an awesome story and takes the readers deep into the hearts of her characters, along with some sad memories and traumatic moments comes forgiveness, happiness, and most of all, acceptance. This makes the reader appreciate we should all accept our family and friends for who they are and how they will be influential in helping you become the person you want to be.
For readers who enjoy Sheila O’Flanagan and Marian Keyes, Make Yourself at Home will worm its way into your soul and stay there.
October 17, 2021
Ciara Geraghty is fast becoming one of my top three favourite Irish Authors! This book is gentle, extremely well described and the characters are developed so well. The pace picks up just over halfway through and I found myself wanting to get to the conclusion and see how the story unravelled but at the same time I didn’t want to stop reading. I was lost in the settings and dramas described. Once again Ciara has dealt with some very difficult issues – in an extremely sensitive way.
The best way to describe this book is that the characters feel like friends. There are many uplifting and heart-warming moments and equally emotional ones. You will find yourselves rooting hard for Marianne and Rita to get where they want to be and you’ll maybe even have a few laughs along the way as the humour sprinkled throughout offsets the underlying seriousness.
Beautiful, warm and unique in style, this is a book you don’t want to miss out on.
The best way to describe this book is that the characters feel like friends. There are many uplifting and heart-warming moments and equally emotional ones. You will find yourselves rooting hard for Marianne and Rita to get where they want to be and you’ll maybe even have a few laughs along the way as the humour sprinkled throughout offsets the underlying seriousness.
Beautiful, warm and unique in style, this is a book you don’t want to miss out on.
September 1, 2021
Marianne’s life seems to falling apart, her husband has left her to have babies with another woman, she has been convicted of shoplifting and consequently has had her home repossessed by the bank. So with nowhere else left to go she returns to live with her mother. There is an unfolding story here of loss, - of a sister, of a mother, of self but this a hopeful tale of rebuilt relationships, of learning to live again and of redemption. It took me a while to get my teeth into this book, but I reached the point where I cared about Marianne and her relationship with her mother and was hooked in to this gentle and often funny story. The recipes at the end were a real bonus - I love books that include recipes! Thank you to #netgalley and #Harpercollins for a review copy in exchange for an honest review.
September 3, 2021
The author had a certain way to make you so inquisitive about what is going to happen that it definitely keeps you hooked on it . This is the first book I have read by this author and I can safely say it will not be my last !
The book featured great characters , not just the main character Marianne but the others featured all add a little something too the story , the book is set on the Irish coast , I might not have even been there but the way the author describes the setting makes it feel as though I have been there .
The storyline itself is one that takes you on a whirlwind of emotions , you feel what the characters feel , go through the ups and downs of Marianne and her mother Rita , through her past trying to fix her future.
A wonderful book to read and a wonderful author to become a fan of!
The book featured great characters , not just the main character Marianne but the others featured all add a little something too the story , the book is set on the Irish coast , I might not have even been there but the way the author describes the setting makes it feel as though I have been there .
The storyline itself is one that takes you on a whirlwind of emotions , you feel what the characters feel , go through the ups and downs of Marianne and her mother Rita , through her past trying to fix her future.
A wonderful book to read and a wonderful author to become a fan of!
February 22, 2021
So many issues are gently but comprehensively covered in this gorgeous story of Marianne and Rita. Marianne's relationship with Brian has fallen apart and she ends up back with her mother, Rita. A complicated childhood, alcoholism and deep-seated regrets all lead to a dancing of sorts between Rita and Marianne. How can these two women possible live together, even briefly?
A random assortment of people collected by Rita have a surprising impact on Marianne as she tries to sort her life out. Rita is quirky and secretive. Marianne is explosive and spontaneous. This combination leads to Marianne learning that all is not what it seems and she does in fact need people after all.
Ciara Geraghty weaves an emotional tale and this is a gem.
A random assortment of people collected by Rita have a surprising impact on Marianne as she tries to sort her life out. Rita is quirky and secretive. Marianne is explosive and spontaneous. This combination leads to Marianne learning that all is not what it seems and she does in fact need people after all.
Ciara Geraghty weaves an emotional tale and this is a gem.
September 5, 2021
This is the first book I have read by Ciara Geraghty and I received a proof copy from HarperCollins. I loved it, it's emotional, funny and completely devours you. There is a diverse mix of characters which all belong to the "Get well sooners" club. The protagonist Marianne has to move back into her mum's house after a run of bad luck, she meets some delightful members of the club and she slowly becomes a beloved member even though she want's nothing to do with them and that's when the fun starts. It's really sad in parts but it's also very uplifting and makes you laugh and smile. I will definitely be buying more books from this author.
November 17, 2023
"She had resolved never to come back and yet here she was.
That's what rock bottom really meant.
No place else to go."
The last thing Marianne wanted at forty years old was to be back in her childhood home with her eccentric, larger than life mother. But maybe that is just what she needs.
I am a big fan of an unlikely friendship group full of quirky characters and this book delivered. A heartfelt story about family and regrets and reconciliation as well as friendship and the basic human need for other humans who understand us (and even if they do not understand, still support us).
That's what rock bottom really meant.
No place else to go."
The last thing Marianne wanted at forty years old was to be back in her childhood home with her eccentric, larger than life mother. But maybe that is just what she needs.
I am a big fan of an unlikely friendship group full of quirky characters and this book delivered. A heartfelt story about family and regrets and reconciliation as well as friendship and the basic human need for other humans who understand us (and even if they do not understand, still support us).
May 24, 2024
The characters in this book are fascinating. The version I have had some errors in it but it was readable. It also has some Irish and Scottish slang that was sometimes confusing. Be aware that it also has curse words and 2 people who are gay and some mild sexual scenes.
Saying all of that, I thoroughly enjoyed it. The plot is around 2 main characters- Rita, the mother and Marianne, the adult daughter. The book focuses on themes of addiction in a very light and sometimes funny way, loss and gain of love, regret, and the unpredictable weather. Heavy themes but handled in a very light and humorous way. I was sorry it was over.
Saying all of that, I thoroughly enjoyed it. The plot is around 2 main characters- Rita, the mother and Marianne, the adult daughter. The book focuses on themes of addiction in a very light and sometimes funny way, loss and gain of love, regret, and the unpredictable weather. Heavy themes but handled in a very light and humorous way. I was sorry it was over.
August 13, 2025
I have very little positive things to say about this (long) book.
Some of the characters were enjoyable and there was moments that were humorous.
But overall it definitely didn't impress me.
Why does the author (Ciara Geraghty) use the word 'instead' endlessly, sometimes three times in one page.
I had to use my Kindle dictionary ALL the time for very confusing words like "incarnation" 'apocalyptic" (even my dictionary was unable to explain that word) "camphor" "febrile" "fontonelle" "penchant"
I could go on and on and on.
I don't think I'll make myself endure another book by Ciara Geraghty.
More than enough already
Some of the characters were enjoyable and there was moments that were humorous.
But overall it definitely didn't impress me.
Why does the author (Ciara Geraghty) use the word 'instead' endlessly, sometimes three times in one page.
I had to use my Kindle dictionary ALL the time for very confusing words like "incarnation" 'apocalyptic" (even my dictionary was unable to explain that word) "camphor" "febrile" "fontonelle" "penchant"
I could go on and on and on.
I don't think I'll make myself endure another book by Ciara Geraghty.
More than enough already
September 3, 2021
This was an enjoyable read, Marianne really did remind me of Eleanor Oliphant! She wasn’t much of a people person, her husband left her, she got fired from her job for shop lifting and everything just falls apart.
The thing that was a big high for me on this story was the characters. They were all so lovely and formed such a wonderful community of support. From learning about Marianne’s mother running a self help group called ‘The Get Well Sooners’ - knowing more about the characters and their life and also that self help group definitely impacted on Marianne despite that she wasn’t a part of that group. Seeing her open up from her shell, letting go of the barriers, just becoming herself and accepting herself for who she is was wonderful.
3.5stars rounded up
The thing that was a big high for me on this story was the characters. They were all so lovely and formed such a wonderful community of support. From learning about Marianne’s mother running a self help group called ‘The Get Well Sooners’ - knowing more about the characters and their life and also that self help group definitely impacted on Marianne despite that she wasn’t a part of that group. Seeing her open up from her shell, letting go of the barriers, just becoming herself and accepting herself for who she is was wonderful.
3.5stars rounded up
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