Higgins has written a blockbuster of a book, a love letter to Upstate New York. Much of it takes place in towns and villages we’ve driven through all our lives but never really knew their histories.

For those who haven’t yet read “Dreams of Freedom,” her debut novel, you’re in for a treat. Or, if you’re like me, who read and loved it when it first came out and picked it up to read again, you’ll enjoy it even more the second time around.

My guest is Marilyn Higgins. She was the Chief Economic Development Officer for National Grid and later, Syracuse University. She's with me today because she's just published a new novel, it’s her first book titled, "Dreams of Freedom: An Irishwoman's Story of Love, Justice, and a Young Nation Coming Apart". Marilyn has also been involved in a number of philanthropic endeavors that are related to the period of upstate history that she's writing about. Marilyn, welcome to the program and congratulations on the book.

On Thursday, March 6, at 6 p.m., the Cazenovia Public Library will host a book talk with Canastota resident Marilyn Higgins, author of “Dreams of Freedom.”

“I love Central New York,” Marilyn Higgins announced during our interview at her charming Canastota Village home a couple of weeks ago. Marilyn had always wanted to write a novel, and when she finished Dreams of Freedom: An Irish Woman’s Story of Love, Justice, and a Young Nation Coming Apart, one of the things she was most excited about was how well it featured towns”

“On this episode of Destination on the Left, I talk with novelist Marilyn Higgins and explore how fiction can make history more accessible and relevant, shedding light on how 19th-century issues echo in today’s world. We also discuss the growing trend of novel tourism, where travelers experience destinations through the lens of stories and literature.

This trend sparks new ways to experience and celebrate unique places through the magic of narrative and place-based journeys.”

“A local woman has brought her passion for the Erie Canal to life in a book inspired by her father, her love of New York state, and her Irish descent.”

“Local author Marilyn Higgins will visit the Oswego Public Library May 10 at 2 p.m. to discuss her debut novel, “Dreams of Freedom.”

“Author Marilyn Higgins will discuss her debut novel, “Dreams of Freedom” at 6 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 4, the Old Forge Library, 220 Crosby Blvd.”