By Michelle Crean

A local author, who released her debut novel earlier this year, has thanked the public for their support.

Killarney author Máire O'Leary, who penned 'Freewheeling to Love', said she has seen fantastic support from Irish libraries.

Her book, which was released in February, is available in all Kerry libraries and in almost 60 libraries nationwide.

"I am blown away by the support from libraries throughout Ireland," Máire said.

"As a child I was a frequent visitor to Bantry Library and that is where my love of reading grew. I now love to visit Killarney Library with my boys. I feel libraries are special places that make reading assessable to all."

'Freewheeling to Love' is a contemporary cycling themed romance set in Killarney, South Kerry and West Cork. After reading 'Freewheeling to Love" you would be forgiven for hopping on the computer to book your holiday in Killarney, she added.

"It was described by one book blogger as a "love letter to Kerry" but it is so much more than that."

Beautifully weaved through the cycling themed romantic drama are the deeper societal issues of consent, fertility, paternity, jealousy and mental health. All three lead characters Saoirse, Oisin and Donal have their strengths and vulnerabilities and at different stages of the story your love and loyalty to them may be tested.

Máire is also really grateful to all the local Killarney retailers, the independent bookshops, in particular Eason, Eagers and O'Connors Killarney, and the international booksellers.

"All you have to do now is Google it and you will find it anywhere in the world."