Anne Ireton from Courtown said the launch was an “outstanding success”, and said the library was filled with support from the Gorey community. “The buzz and sense of enthusiasm from the attendees of the book launch was palpable, and everyone really enjoyed the evening.”
Mick O Callaghan with Anne Ireton at Anne Ireton’s Book Launch of her new book Bohemian Whirlpools at The Gorey Library. PHOTO: Sabrina Ffrench
An official launch took place on Thursday, October 16 at Gorey Library, where the novel was launched by Jackie Hayden, and Mick O’Callaghan, who acted as master of ceremonies.
Bohemian Whirlpools is a follow-up novel which enables fans to follow the beloved characters explored in her debut novel, Kaleidoscopic Times, which was released in 2023. The story follows the colourful music scene of the 1990s, while also clashing with the spirit world, which Anne said will captivate readers.
“It enables fans to follow the further adventures of the unconventional cast of characters who enlivened that book, including Fiachra, Flaps, Sinead, Austin, Aisling and Voodoo, as they continue to live their lives out there on the edge,” Anne said.
Speaking about the writing process, Anne said it was “wonderfully rewarding” to put the novel together. “It enabled me to explore issues of addiction and to reflect on the theme of secrets and lies within families and society in Ireland.”
Wally O Neill, Carmel Conroy, Mary Kilhanson, Anne Ireton, Veronica Lombart, Anne Colgan and Odhran Somers attending Anne Ireton’s Book Launch of her new book Bohemian Whirlpools at The Gorey Library. PHOTO: Sabrina Ffrench
She said the atmosphere was filled with support from friends and the wider community the celebrated the growing writing scene in Gorey. “The atmosphere was filled with camaraderie, support and excitement about Bohemian Whirlpools going out into the world.
“It was a celebration of Gorey’s literary world as well and many of the writers around Gorey were in attendance to help celebrate the emergence of Bohemian Whirlpools,” she added.
On the evening, readings from by Veronica Lombard, Mary Keogh Hansen and Anne Colgan and Odhran Somers. While the owner of Redbooks Wally O’Neill was also in attendance.
“It was an evening to be remembered,” Anne said.
Anita Carroll, Anne Ireton and Regina Redmond at Anne Ireton’s Book Launch of her new book Bohemian Whirlpools at The Gorey Library. PHOTO: Sabrina Ffrench
Bohemian Whirlpools has been published with Redbooks in Wexford town, and has been edited by Wexford author, Alanna Hammel. As publisher, Redbooks held an official launch on Saturday, October 11 to celebrate Anne’s sophomore novel.
Currently, Anne leads the Wordsmiths writers’ group at Gorey Library, where local writers meet to support and encourage creative writing in the community. She previously published two collections of poems and short stories and contributed to the Gorey Writers Group anthology Taking Flight.
Bohemian Whirlpools is now available for purchase online and at Redbooks in Wexford town.