Quentin's

Maeve Binchy delivers a timely and topical tale on the fickle nature of docu-soaps in Quentin's. In an age in which everyday people are becoming overnight celebrities via the medium of television, Ella Brady is a documentary film-maker who wants to bring the tale of the eponymous Dublin restaurant to the screen. Quentin's has had its fair share of ups and downs over the years and has become the meeting point for a lot of characters, including some familiar faces from previous Binchy novels. As Ella makes more and more headway with her documentary, the secrets, betrayals and stories of love that emerge make her question whether or not she wants to bring the tale of Quentin's to the screen after all; especially as she is also forced to confront a devastating dilemma from her own past.

Regarded by many as the true queen of the romantic Irish drama, Binchy has once again produced another fine novel that will please her army of loyal fans and, we hope, win her many more. She has a real eye for character and exploring the often painful choices people are forced to make in their everyday lives.

This is a tale of normal people - ordinary folk - and the heartaches that have made them who they are. Fans will welcome the return of some familiar Binchy characters, and Ella is a strong, likeable heroine, a woman who, in exploring the lives of these people, is forced to consider some choices she has made. So make a reservation at Quentin's, sit back, and relax - you'll be in very good company.

©2007 Maeve Binchy (P)2010 BBC Audiobooks Ltd