New novel brings Kathy McGloin’s Bundoran story to life
The Belfast-born writer’s book tells the story of a girl who escapes to Bundoran in the hope of finding a fresh start
Kathy McGloin celebrated the launch of her new book in Bundoran earlier this week.
The launch of Second Chances by the Sea was held at Bundoran Community Centre on Wednesday, September 9.
The well-attended event marked an important milestone for the Belfast-born author, whose own connection with Bundoran stretches back to the early 1970s.
Speaking to those gathered, Kathy recalled growing up in Belfast and first coming to Bundoran with her family for summer holidays, staying in a caravan in the popular seaside town. Those childhood visits began a relationship with Bundoran that would ultimately shape much of her life.
Kathy later settled in the town with her husband James, where they raised their two sons, Oisin and Micheal. More than 50 years after those first summer visits, Bundoran now also provides the setting for her first novel.
Second Chances by the Sea tells the story of Erin, whose life in Belfast is shattered by a devastating betrayal. Seeking distance from the life she thought she was building, she escapes to Bundoran on Ireland’s west coast in the hope of finding a fresh start and a little Peace.
During the launch, Kathy spoke about the journey that led to the publication of the book and paid tribute to her mum and dad, to whom Second Chances by the Sea is dedicated. Guests were then treated to a reading from the novel, with Kathy choosing an excerpt that offered the audience a glimpse into the story and its characters.
The reading was followed by a book signing, giving those attending an opportunity to meet Kathy, have their copies signed and congratulate her on the publication of her first novel. The evening then continued in a relaxed atmosphere as guests mingled and enjoyed light Refreshments.
Bundoran Community Centre proved an excellent venue for the occasion, and Kathy and her family extended particular thanks to Teresa, Barry and Christy for their help, hospitality and support in making the launch such a success.
The strong turnout was especially fitting for a novel so closely connected with the town. Bundoran has long held a special place for generations of visitors from Belfast and across Northern Ireland, many of whom first came to the resort on childhood summer holidays and continued returning throughout their lives.
With the formalities completed, books signed and conversations continuing around the room, the evening became a warm community celebration of a significant personal achievement.
Second Chances by the Sea is now available to purchase locally from The Wishing Chair and McGovern’s Newsagents in Bundoran, A Novel Idea in Ballyshannon, Liber Bookshop in Sligo and The Four Masters Bookshop in Donegal Town.