By Kerry Hardie
Little, Brown and Company
Hardcover

Fifty-two-year-old Hannie seems to be just who she is. She seems to paint a clear picture with her actions and her words.

A Winter Marriage Excerpt "We could go someplace else," she said neutrally. "And have you think me a cheapskate?" He made an effort, smiled self consciously. She raised an eyebrow, not returning the smile. "What do you want, Hannie?" Ned asked her. The waiter was approaching. She picked up the menu. "Whatever's most expensive." "Is it a test?" She nodded, not looking up. The waiter was standing there, silently waiting. She ordered the lobster. ©2002 Kerry Hardie Published with permission from Little, Brown & Co.

Hannie is daring, bold, blunt and sometimes a bit crude, but seems to be true to herself. She has made a career of marrying for money and security for both herself and her fourteen-year-old son, Joss.

She now finds herself, again, in need of a husband and attends a wedding in hopes of finding one. Ned appears on the scene, not as obvious, but also in need of a marriage partner.

Hannie and Ned marry and he takes her to his farm in Ireland where they discover the hidden truths about each other. Their lives are brought forth in shades of gray as well as that of friends and family.

Hannie keeps Joss a mystery, wanting him to be loved and cared for, but not sure how to keep him safe from the world, or even keep the world safe from him. The mystery weaves itself throughout the story and it is not until the very end that your curiosity is satisfied.

All the while there is the background of other interesting characters in their lives, such as Danno the taxidermist, who befriends Hannie and allows her to bring her burdens to him. There is Alison, who Hannie doesn't particularly like, but finds herself confiding in her. And Niamh, the struggling artist that lives in Ned's cottage and leaves a profound mark on all.

Bookworm's Briefing
Kerry Hardie has written a book that encompasses a woman coming into her older years with an understanding and a clarity that is unashamed. Her descriptions of Ireland fill all your senses and carry the story as it moves through their lives.

Hardie is a prize-winning poet. This is her first novel. She lives in County Kilkenny, Ireland with her husband, Sean, whom she lovingly devoted this book to.