Circle of friends Book

The charm of a Mave Binchy as a writer is her ability to draw the reader in with familiar characters and stories that are relatable and compelling and Circle of Friends is one of those books that has host of well imagined characters whose stories and dramas make for entertaining and easy reading.

I read this book when it first came out and really enjoyed it and when I happened upon it while doing a "Maria Condo" on my bookshelves I felt a strong pull for a cosy fireside read and this one sure did not disappoint second time around.

Childhood friends Benny and Eve, grew up together in the Irish village of Knockglen where the pace of life is slow and opportunitys for romance slim., and when they start University in the big city the girls make new friends, and enjoy romance and freedom that Universary life offers. While city life has its excitement they must return to the Village at the weekends. Benny the only child, yearning to break free from her adoring parents while Eve the orphaned offspring of a convent handyman and a rebellious blueblood, abandoned by her mother's wealthy family to be raised by nuns. Eve and Benny they knew the sins and secrets behind every villager's lace curtains...except their own

I really enjoyed the novel, it has a slow pace but perfectly rounded characters and a great plot. Binchy's prose is light and easy and you find yourself caring about the characters and what happens to them. I probably read this novel 25 years ago and it works as well today as it did back then. I love the sense of Irishness about this one too without it being too twee.

An easy and entertaining read and readers who enjoy novels by Diane Chamberlain or Kristin Hannah may well enjoy Maeve Binchy novels tool.