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10 Books by Irish Authors You Need to Read

If you’re a fan of Irish authors, this list is for you. I’ve put together ten books by Irish writers that you won’t want to miss.

Whether it’s the rich history, unforgettable characters, or gripping stories, these books offer something for everyone.

There are so many fantastic novels by Irish authors but these are just a few of my favourites.

Disclosure: This post may include affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases

The Heart’s Invisible Furies

Genre: Literary Fiction

Author: John Boyne

Buy: Amazon | Waterstones

Published: 2017

One of my favourite books of all time, The Heart’s Invisible Furies is an epic saga spanning seven decades in the life of Cyril Avery.

It’s such a beautifully written, poignant story. The characters really stay with you, and it has such a great balance of humour and heartbreak.

The Heart’s Invisible Furies Review

Normal People

Genre: Literary Fiction

Author: Sally Rooney

Buy: Amazon | Waterstones

Published: 2018

Sally Rooney’s exquisite prose and keen insights into human relationships shine in this modern-day love story.

Normal People is easily my favourite Sally Rooney novel and follows Connell and Marianne as they navigate the challenges of friendship, romance, and growing up.

Normal People Book Review.

Small Things Like These

Genre: Literary Fiction

Author: Claire Keegan

Buy: Amazon | Waterstones

Published: 2021

In this beautifully crafted novella, Claire Keegan explores the quiet moments of everyday life with grace and sensitivity.

Set in rural Ireland, the story follows a man’s journey to reconcile the past with the present amidst the backdrop of a changing world.

Small Things Like These book review.

Snowflake

Genre: Literary Fiction

Author: Louise Nealon

Buy: Amazon | Waterstones

Published: 2021

Louise Nealon’s debut novel is a breath of fresh air, blending humour and heartache in equal measure.

Follow Debbie as she navigates the challenges of adolescence, family dynamics, and self-discovery against the backdrop of a dysfunctional farm in rural Ireland.

Snowflake book review.

The Pull of the Stars

Genre: Historical Fiction

Author: Emma Donoghue

Buy: Amazon | Waterstones

Published: 2020

Set during the 1918 Spanish flu pandemic, Emma Donoghue’s gripping novel is set inside a Dublin maternity ward where Nurse Julia Power cares for expectant mothers amidst the chaos of a world ravaged by disease.

A compelling tale of resilience and compassion in the face of adversity.

Pull of the Stars review.

The Rachel Incident

Genre: Literary Fiction

Author: Caroline O’Donoghue

Buy: Amazon | Waterstones

Published: 2023

Caroline O’Donoghue delivers a sharp and witty exploration of modern womanhood in this darkly comedic novel.

When Rachel’s life is upended by a scandalous incident, she must navigate the fallout while confronting uncomfortable truths about herself and those around her.

The Rachel Incident Review.

Soldier Sailor

Genre: Literary Fiction

Author: Claire Kilroy

Buy: Amazon | Waterstones

Published: 2023

Claire Kilroy offers a raw and honest portrayal of early motherhood in this powerful novel.

Through the lens of Soldier’s journey, Kilroy delves into the joys, challenges, and overwhelming love that accompany the transition to parenthood.

Soldier Sailor book review.

Old God’s Time

Genre: Literary Fiction

Author: Sebastian Barry

Buy: Amazon | Waterstones

Published: 2023

Transport yourself to rural Ireland in the early 20th century with Sebastian Barry’s Old God’s Time.

This novel is a haunting exploration of family, faith, and the enduring bond between a mother and son against the backdrop of a changing world.

Find out more.

Milkman

Genre: Literary Fiction

Author: Anna Burns

Buy: Amazon | Waterstones

Published: 2018

Winner of the 2018 Man Booker Prize, Anna Burns’s Milkman is a literary tour de force.

Set in Northern Ireland during the Troubles, the novel follows an unnamed narrator as she navigates the complexities of life in a divided society where rumours and whispers carry dangerous consequences.

Find out more.

Brooklyn

Genre: Historical Fiction

Author: Colm Tóibín

Buy: Amazon | Waterstones

Published: 2009

Colm Tóibín’s Brooklyn is a poignant tale of love and exile.

The story follows Eilis Lacey as she leaves her small Irish town for the promise of a new life in America, only to find herself torn between two worlds and two loves.

Find out more.

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