Husband of beloved Limerick author to unveil her final book

A TRIBUTE to beloved Limerick author Lorraine O’Byrne (née Barry) will take place this weekend at the unveiling of her final book.

Lorraine, who passed away last February after battling with breast cancer, grew up in Dromkeen, Co Limerick.

Her final book, I Will Find You, will be launched this Saturday, November 18 at 6.30pm at the Killaloe Hotel, where her husband and guest speakers will pay tribute to her work.

A donation from the sale of the book will be contributed to Milford Care Centre.

Inspired by Disney and animals, Lorraine, saw her passion for writing blossom during her childhood. Her children’s stories featured talking animals and a host of magical creatures. Lorraine consistently emphasised the importance of nurturing children’s reading habits and the incredible value of using their own imaginations.

In 2002, she met her husband, Donal. Their shared interests and deep connection forged an inseparable bond. With persuasive charm, Lorraine convinced him to embark on journeys, and together, they explored 16 countries.

Their home quickly became a sanctuary for an assortment of animals, including chickens, ducks, cats, dogs and a horse.

Lorraine’s compassion for animals shone through, even in her final days, when she attempted to rescue a dog at Kilfinane Animal Welfare.

In 2004, she published her first adult fiction book, The Wrath of Voodoo, followed by the release of her debut children’s book, The Hippity Dippity Witch in 2012.

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With her final creation, Lorraine delved back into the realm of adult fiction. I Will Find You tells the story of a young Irish woman, Louisa, compelled into the Galway Magdalene Laundries Asylum nuns due to the societal scandal of unwanted pregnancy. Her newborn daughter is unjustly taken from her, prompting her lifelong quest to find and reunite with her child.

Decades later, real estate agent Carrie feels lost. But soon, she discovers the heartbreaking truth about her parents and what they kept from her.

Inspired by the heartbreaking reality of life for unmarried mothers in Ireland, this gripping novel will capture your heart and leave you longing for more. ‘I Will Find You’ tells the story of how one woman’s determination leads to the other’s salvation.

Lorraine had a personal connection to this story, as she was close to an elderly lady who had lived through this traumatic chapter of Irish history.

Despite facing a terminal illness, Lorraine successfully completed her Masters in Creative Writing at the University of Limerick with first class honours in 2021.

Her tutor during this program was the author Donal Ryan, who will be a guest speaker at the book launch.

Right to the very end, Lorraine's determination and enthusiasm served as a powerful testament to her resilience and a profound inspiration for all who knew her.

While this is the final chapter of Lorraine’s writing career, her inspiration and books will live on forever, continuing to touch the hearts and minds of many.