Nora Webster

A Novel

By: Colm Toibin

Narrated by: Fiona Shaw

2015 Audie Award Finalist for Literary Fiction

From one of contemporary literature’s bestselling, critically acclaimed, and beloved authors: a “luminous” novel (Jennifer Egan, The New York Times Book Review) about a fiercely compelling young widow navigating grief, fear, and longing, and finding her own voice—“heartrendingly transcendent” (The New York Times).

At forty, Nora Webster is newly widowed, left with four children and not nearly enough money. Maurice, the love of her life, had once saved her from a stifling existence—but now he's gone, and Nora fears she may be pulled back into a world she fought hard to leave behind. In a small Irish town where privacy is a luxury, Nora tries to keep her sorrow private—even as her young sons silently mourn the father they barely understand is missing.

As she wrestles with fear, anger, and identity, Nora reveals a complex interior life—wounded and secretive, yet capable of astonishing empathy and strength. When she rediscovers her passion for singing, Nora begins a quiet transformation, finding solace, connection, and a sense of self that she had long buried.

Shortlisted for the 2016 Audie Award for Literary Fiction and celebrated as “a perfect work of fiction” (Los Angeles Times), Nora Webster is a powerful and intimate look at grief, motherhood, and female independence. For fans of Brooklyn, The Testament of Mary, and Vinegar Hill, this novel is a deeply moving addition to the best of Irish literary fiction and an unforgettable story for book clubs and lovers of emotionally resonant stories.

“Miraculous…Tóibín portrays Nora with tremendous sympathy and understanding” (The Washington Post). Nora Webster is a masterpiece of quiet power, perfect for fans of character-driven fiction and literary explorations of personal transformation.

beautiful and simple

The description of a woman's life unfolding after being suddenly widowed. The circumscription of a small Irish town in the 1970's and the many subtle ways we watch her grow into herself as an individual, with family yet, as we all are, alone.
Beautiful. This book puts me in mind of the many novels by Edna O'Brian.

Not really sure about this book by one of my favorite authors.

Like the stories about ‘the troubles” between the 2 halves of Ireland. Wasn’t sure what I thought about the story.

Liked Aunt Josie.

A favorite

Beautifully written, intimate and subtle. A simply gorgeous book. The reader’s talent is as astonishing as the writer’s.

Over too soon, but a great snapshot of her life.

Fiona Shaw is absolutely incredible, as I expected. Any performance of hers is completely flawless.

Couldn't finish it, I just didn't care

Would you try another book from Colm Toibin and/or Fiona Shaw?

Fiona Shaw was an excellent narrator. The problem was the story. It was boring and depressing and I never felt compelled to care about Nora. I finally just gave up. I gave it three stars only because he narration was good.

Would you ever listen to anything by Colm Toibin again?

I might, some reviews say his other books are much better but then many reviewers loved this book. People praise the excellent writing. I guess I am a reader that is more concerned with the story. Everyone likes something different. This just wasn't for me.

What reaction did this book spark in you? Anger, sadness, disappointment?

Disappointment!