The Ladies' Midnight Swimming Club

This character-driven novel takes you to a small community in Ireland where everybody knows everyone but is supportive and rich in spirit.

Lucy a single mother, recently divorced is tired of her busy job as a Doctor in her local A&E department at the hospital. Her son is away at boarding school and spends most of his time gaming when he is home. She decides to have a ‘break' from it all and goes to visit her mother in her hometown of Ballycove.

Jo is delighted in welcoming her daughter and grandson to Ballycove and fusses over them as any mother/grandmother would. Although, Jo realises she needs to admit the truth to her daughter (and herself) about her health, as she has been in denial for a while now.

Elizabeth, a recent widow, finds herself learning to cope after the death of her husband and coming to terms with his secrets that could shatter and pull her under.

These women show bravery, determination and support one another through their hardships. Along the way they find laughter, love and acceptance. It was hard not to get caught up in the lives of these three women and although there were moments of heartbreak and sadness in the book there was also the power of friendship and human kindness. Ballycove really was the place with a big heart and an idyllic place to live.

I loved the concept of the ‘Midnight Swimming Club' that Jo inspired the women to participate in although there would be no way I would venture into the Irish Sea at any time of day let alone at midnight! This coming together, stripping back the day's stresses and just being in the moment provided a rawness of emotions which made for a powerful read.

Hogan's writing is poignant, gentle and touching. I got swept along with the plot, the characters and the beautiful setting. Although there is some sadness it also had a feel-good feel to the novel which I thoroughly enjoyed.