Connie Maguire has always lived in the shadows. Battling low self-esteem, she has spent her life prioritising her only child — and he has flourished, becoming Ireland's newest rugby star.

On the day of her milestone birthday, with Liam's career about to soar, Connie finally believes she might achieve some happiness.

Then tragedy strikes in the dark of night, changing everything.

On Ireland's rugged west coast, the past refuses to stay buried, and Connie must finally confront the devastating truth of what happened on the night that destroyed so many lives.

This powerful exploration of motherhood, guilt and redemption questions whether we can truly be free from the mistakes of our past.

New from 2025 Travel Extra Travel Journalist of the Year Domhnall O’Donoghue, The (Wonderful) Life of Connie Maguire is perfect for fans of Liz Nugent, Adele Parks and Shari Lapena.

'Exquisitely plotted and sensitively written' - Áine Toner, BELFAST TELEGRAPH

'A stunning page-turner' - Nicola Bardon, THE SUN

"'Exquisitely plotted and sensitively written, Domhnall ably welcomes readers into a life fractured by tragedy. Always astute and emotionally intelligent, Connie is a character whom you won’t be able to forget. Expect to run a range of emotions as the realities of maternal love and self-understanding are continually put to the test. I defy you not to finish this absorbing, intense novel without your heart in your mouth or a tear in your eye.'" - Belfast Telegraph

"'A stunning page-turner that will grip you and leave you wondering 'what if?' The book highlights how everything can change in just one night - no matter how "wonderful" your life is.'" - The Sun