What readers think of Saoirse, plus links to write your own review.

Charleen Hurtubise is a novelist and artist of some renown in the UK and Ireland. Saoirse is her North American debut and it is a stunner. Told in alternating timelines and clever narrative shifts, the novel moves among Sarah/Saoirse's harrowing childhood in Michigan, her escape to Ireland with a new identity after devastating traumatic events, and the "present day" (1999), when she is living as an artist in Ireland with her partner and children. The success of her artistic career brings out the media and unwanted attention to the careful and quiet life that Saoirse has carved out, and she must fight to clear her name and protect her family. This novel is suspenseful, beautifully written, and deeply moving. Highly recommend. I will be eagerly watching for Hurtubise's next novel.

Narrated by Róisín Rankin

A character-driven novel that lingers in mood and emotion.

Saoirse is a quietly told, character-driven novel with emotional nuance. It follows a young woman from Michigan with a deeply disturbing childhood who retreats to a remote Irish island in search of freedom and a fresh start. As Saoirse settles into island life, long-buried secrets and unresolved trauma begin to surface.

Themes of identity, accountability, silence, and the weight of the past guide the story. This is not a fast-moving, plot-driven novel, but one that favors atmosphere, introspection, and emotional depth. The suspense is subtle and woven throughout the narrative, driven more by character than action.

This will appeal to readers who enjoy literary fiction focused on character, atmosphere, and emotional depth.

I especially appreciated the development of Saoirse and how the story portrays an unprotected child and young woman struggling to understand herself and find her identity. Significant time is spent in her thoughts and emotions, which enhanced my connection to the story.

I combined the digital ARC with the audiobook, and Róisín Rankin’s narration fit the story beautifully. She captured the understated tension and emotional layers, making the quieter moments feel authentic and engaging.

The writing is beautifully done, and the remote Irish island setting was a highlight for me. I was impressed by this being the author’s first U.S. debut, and I’m always excited to discover a new author. I look forward to reading more from Charleen Hurtubise.

Thank you to NetGalley and Macmillan Audio for the ALC, and Celadon Books for the eARC.