The 2026 Kerry Group Irish Novel of the Year Winner – Reading Matters
Well, thank goodness for that! The only book I managed to read from this year’s longlist for the Kerry Group Irish Novel of the Year has taken out the prize!
Congratulations to Gráinne O’Hare, whose novel Thirst Trap, was named winner at the opening night of the 55th anniversary of Listowel Writers’ Week.
It’s a wonderful novel deserving of the prize.
In my review, I described it as “fabulously immersive”, a book that is “full of wit and warmth, the kind of story that deftly balances humour with pathos”.
Kerry Group’s Chief Corporate Affairs Officer, Catherine Keogh, said: “It is especially encouraging to see such a distinctive new voice emerge, continuing the remarkable tradition of Irish authors celebrated through Listowel Writers’ Week. All this year’s nominees were outstanding, and as Kerry marks 30 years of sponsoring this award, we are proud to support original Irish voices and the enduring impact of Irish storytelling.”
You can read more about the win here and here.
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