Niamh Ní Mhaoileoin

A year today since we launched Ordinary Saints and I am reflecting and counting many many blessings. And also, for the week that's in it, feeling quite proud of being a more visible lesbian than I've ever been before. Didn't know that light could come further out from under the bushel, but here we are and I love it. 

Anyway, I remember when the first few positive reader reviews started coming in before publication and thinking: 'this is enough. If ten people really love it, it will have been worth it.' Now, when I think about the number of people who have read and loved it, I basically start to cry immediately. Then I remind myself that some people also really hate it, but as long as they're funny we still appreciate them for playing! 

It's wild to me that since publication Ordinary Saints has been nominated for the Waterstones Debut Fiction Prize, the Dublin Literary Award, the Books Are My Bag Awards, the Kate O'Brien Award and the Kerry Group Irish Writer of the Year Award. No one writes to get on shortlists but still - this kind of recognition is an insane honour. Thankfully losing every single one of them is keeping me humble.

Most importantly, this book has brought so many great people into my life. That will always be my favourite thing about it. Thank you to all the old and new friends who've supported me through this year, and to my agent and publishing team, especially @sophiemorme and @clarekelly.pr

I will be skiting around talking about saints a bit more, but mainly I'm working on the next one now. Okay love you all bye.