Whitethorn Woods

When a new highway threatens to bypass the town of Rossmore and cut through Whitethorn Woods, everyone has a passionate opinion about whether the town will benefit or suffer. But young Father Flynn is most concerned with the fate of St. Ann’s Well, which is set at the edge of the woods and slated for destruction. People have been coming to St. Ann’s for generations to share their dreams and fears, and speak their prayers. Some believe it to be a place of true spiritual power, demanding protection; others think it’s a mere magnet for superstitions, easily sacrificed.

Father Flynn listens to all those caught up in the conflict, as the men and women of Whitethorn Woods must decide between the traditions of the past and the promises of the future.

Maeve Binchy is the author of Nights of Rain and Stars, Scarlet Feather, Quentins, Light a Penny Candle, Circle of Friends, and Tara Road (An Oprah Book Club Selection) and many other bestselling books. Maeve has now retired as a journalist and columnist for the Irish Times and lives in Dalkey, Ireland and London with her husband, writer Gordon Snell. She is a welcome visitor to the U.S. and an honorary citizen of Chicago where she was celebrated by having her own float in their St. Patrick's Day Parade.