The first installment in local author Leigh Ebberwein’s Savannah-based romance series, The Saints of Savannah, will be on the shelves soon as the author releases her debut novel, "The Blessing of the Celtic Curse." 

A book signing and early release party will be held from 3:30-5:30 p.m. on Wednesday, Oct. 27, at Saints & Shamrocks at 309 Bull St. During the event, Ebberwein will read excerpts, have books available for purchase and sign books upon request. The event is open to the public at no charge, and Saints & Shamrocks will provide complimentary refreshments.

“This book is based on my experiences of growing up in Savannah and pulling from my Irish heritage," said Ebberwein.  "‘The Blessing of the Celtic Curse' weaves an uplifting and powerful tale of the cross-generational impact of reckless choices, the redeeming power of love, the importance of having a sisterhood of friends and the unbreakable bond of family."

Ebberwein, who is a native of Savannah, is an alumna of St. Vincent's Academy and a Georgia Southern University graduate. Two years ago, she picked up a pen and began writing in a marble back composition book that belonged to one of her children. "It was like magic. I had always enjoyed storytelling, but it wasn't until that moment that I realized that I was being called to write those stories down." 

"‘The Blessing of the Celtic Curse' reinforces the idea that you must know where you came from before you can understand where you’re going. But most importantly, it’s about two of the most beautiful places in the world: Savannah and Ireland," continued Ebberwein. 

The official release date of "The Blessing of the Celtic Curse" is Monday, Nov. 1, which fittingly is All Saints Day. 

Ebberwein’s publisher is Old Fort Press. Her books are available through independent bookstores and online at Amazon, Barnes & Noble and other outlets in paperback and e-book versions.  

For more information, visit www.leighebberwein.com.