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Irish Village Mystery #8
Murder on an Irish Farm
In this enchanting new read in the fan-favorite series from a USA Today bestselling author, garda of County Cork, Ireland, Siobhán O’Sullivan and Macdaras Flannery, are about to get married at last. But just as the rowdy O’Sullivan brood and all the regulars of the local bistro have gathered at the church, the nuptials come to an abrupt halt when the discovery of an unidentified skeleton puts the wedding on pause…
If only her mother could be here! The entire O’Sullivan brood—not to mention the regulars from Naomi’s Bistro—have gathered at St. Mary’s Church for the wedding of Siobhán and Macdara. It’s not every day you see two garda marrying each other. Only Siobhán’s brother James is missing. They can’t start without him.
But when James finally comes racing in, he’s covered in dirt and babbling he’s found a human skeleton in the old slurry pit at the farmhouse. What farmhouse? Macdara sheepishly admits he was saving it as a wedding surprise: he purchased an abandoned dairy farm. Duty calls, so the engaged garda decide to put the wedding on hold to investigate.
James leads them to a skeleton clothed in rags that resemble a tattered tuxedo. As an elderly neighbor approaches, she cries out that these must be the remains of her one true love who never showed up on their wedding day, fifty years ago. The garda have a cold case on their hands, which heats up the following day when a fresh corpse appears on top of the bridegroom’s bones. With a killer at large, they need to watch their backs—or the nearly wedded couple may be parted by death before they’ve even taken their vows. . .
If only her mother could be here! The entire O’Sullivan brood—not to mention the regulars from Naomi’s Bistro—have gathered at St. Mary’s Church for the wedding of Siobhán and Macdara. It’s not every day you see two garda marrying each other. Only Siobhán’s brother James is missing. They can’t start without him.
But when James finally comes racing in, he’s covered in dirt and babbling he’s found a human skeleton in the old slurry pit at the farmhouse. What farmhouse? Macdara sheepishly admits he was saving it as a wedding surprise: he purchased an abandoned dairy farm. Duty calls, so the engaged garda decide to put the wedding on hold to investigate.
James leads them to a skeleton clothed in rags that resemble a tattered tuxedo. As an elderly neighbor approaches, she cries out that these must be the remains of her one true love who never showed up on their wedding day, fifty years ago. The garda have a cold case on their hands, which heats up the following day when a fresh corpse appears on top of the bridegroom’s bones. With a killer at large, they need to watch their backs—or the nearly wedded couple may be parted by death before they’ve even taken their vows. . .
304 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 22, 2022
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About the author
Carlene O'Connor
37 books2,637 followersCarlene O’Connor is the USA Today Bestselling author of The Irish Village Mystery Series, The Home to Ireland Series and the County Kerry Mystery series. The first in the County Kerry Series, NO STRANGERS HERE received a starred review from Kirkus and was the Mystery Pick of the Month at Barnes and Noble in September of 2023. Of all the places across the pond she’s wandered, she fell most in love with a walled town in County Limerick and was inspired to create the town of Kilbane, County Cork. She currently lives in New Mexico.
https://carleneoconnor.net/
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 474 reviews
December 26, 2021
I joined this series at book 7 and am following it up here with book 8. I am enjoying the books without having read the earlier ones although, since the series is so family based, I have a feeling that starting at the beginning would make it even more special.
Murder on an Irish Farm opens with a wedding which is interrupted by the discovery of a human skeleton, which leads to a murder enquiry and another murder. This all keeps DS Macdara Flannery and Garda Siobhan O'Sullivan very busy. They make an excellent team and the banter between them is entertaining.
It is a fast paced, funny book with a fairly complicated mystery. All loose ends are tied up satisfyingly and we still have a wedding to look forward to. One of these days I must make time to go back to book 1!
Thanks to Netgalley for the opportunity to read and review this book.
Murder on an Irish Farm opens with a wedding which is interrupted by the discovery of a human skeleton, which leads to a murder enquiry and another murder. This all keeps DS Macdara Flannery and Garda Siobhan O'Sullivan very busy. They make an excellent team and the banter between them is entertaining.
It is a fast paced, funny book with a fairly complicated mystery. All loose ends are tied up satisfyingly and we still have a wedding to look forward to. One of these days I must make time to go back to book 1!
Thanks to Netgalley for the opportunity to read and review this book.
January 8, 2023
A Christmas gift! First read of 2023! Great fun read that kept me hoping back and forth trying to guess who murdered two in a barn slurry pit. Was it one or two people? Will Siobhan and Macdura get married? What’s going on with this hawk place? What fascinating information on hawks! What’s going on with this new farm? What’s going on with this priest and nun? Whose to be trusted? Anyone? Such a fun read!
February 22, 2022
This is Carlene O'Connor's eighth book in the Irish Village Mystery series. Well rounded characters in a charming Irish village-- too bad there are murders afoot! The central characters, Garda Siobhán O'Sullivan and Detective Sergeant Macdara Flannery, take us through multiple twists and turns as they attempt to solve the case.
This is my first entry into this series and I enjoyed it. Maybe a little too sentimental for my particular taste, but a quick and enjoyable read. 3.5 of 5. Thank you Kensington Books and NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review. #MurderOnAnIrishFarm #NetGalley
This is my first entry into this series and I enjoyed it. Maybe a little too sentimental for my particular taste, but a quick and enjoyable read. 3.5 of 5. Thank you Kensington Books and NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review. #MurderOnAnIrishFarm #NetGalley
February 25, 2022
Murder on an Irish Farm is the eighth of An Irish Village Series. I have read all of them. This book was really enjoyable with all it's twists and turns. The book takes place in Kilbane, County Cork. The main character, Siobhan O'Sullivan, along with her family, is the main character of this story. She is a Garda and her fiancé, Macdara Flannery is her boss. The other supporting characters add to the suspense of the story. The story opens with the marriage of Siobhan and Macdara. It is interrupted when her brother James runs into the church telling them that he has found a body in a slurry pit in a dairy barn on the farm that Macdara has brought as a surprise for Siobhan. This announcement postpones the continuation of the service. They go to the farm to investigate. The body of Tommy Caffrey, who disappeared 50 years ago and was to marry Gladys has been found. Gladys always believed that Tommy had decided not to marry her and ran away. There is also the mystery of the disappearance of a satchel of money at the time Tommy disappeared. Gladys has married Benji Burns, Tommy's best friend. They along with the rest of their family live under one roof. As you get to know these characters the story line takes the reader to wondering who in this family killed Tommy and why. The reader does not know who the killer is until the end of the story. Siobhan and Macdara do finally marry with much celebration and the knowledge that the family will continue to stay together on the farm.
I look forward to the next of the series with the rebuilding of the barn which Eoin wants to have a Farm to Table restaurant there as well as Siobhan and Macdara's next adventure.
Thank you NetGalley and Kensington Publishing Corporation for this ARC.
I look forward to the next of the series with the rebuilding of the barn which Eoin wants to have a Farm to Table restaurant there as well as Siobhan and Macdara's next adventure.
Thank you NetGalley and Kensington Publishing Corporation for this ARC.
January 25, 2022
What a great author. I couldn't put this book down. What a great series. Each series gets better. I hope Carlene O'Connor continues this wonderful series. Siobhan and Macdara are finally heading to the alter. But before they can say I do, they find out a body was discovered on the land that Macdara bought to surprise his new bride. This news puts the wedding on hold for awhile. When a second body is found in the same spot, they really need to ramp things up because they won’t get married until this case is solved. But will they say I do, or will the killer prevent the marriage from taking place. The mystery part of the book, it’s a whodunit to its core. I had an inkling throughout the entire book about who the killer was, but it was hard to pinpoint exactly who it was until the very end. I love books that make you keep guessing and trying to solve right along with the main characters. Carlene O’Connor knows mystery! And best of all, she knows her characters and how to flow them into a great story. It’s a must read! Well done!
October 30, 2021
Murder on an Irish Farm by Carlene O’Connor is an excellent cozy mystery that is the 8th book in one of my favorite series ever: Irish Village Mystery.
I have read every book in this series, and I truly still feel as if they keep getting better and better. I always love visiting the small, quirky, and endearing village of Kilbane in County Cork. The full cast of characters make it feel like home. I also adore Siobhan O’ Sullivan and her partner in crime (or in this case law enforcement and fiancé as well ) Macdara Flannery. The chemistry is there, they work so well together, and the one-liners are entertaining.
This time Dara and Siobhan are finally going to get married (Yay!!!!!). But of course before they can say their vows, James ends up being late for the event due to finding a deceased person on what is to be the property of a surprise for Siobhan. ( I will leave it there detail wise so as not spoil anything for others.)
Their detective drive is too much to continue the day and the investigation has begun. The following murder/mystery plot is complicated by twists, turns, and arson. I enjoyed following along as the duo (along with their family and colleagues) get down to business to solve the crime before they become the next victims themselves.
As always, I loved everything about this book, and I also loved the last chapter, the reveals, and the ending. It was so sweet and I really like where this series is now going. It is going to be good!
5/5 stars
Thank you NG and Kensington for this wonderful arc and in return I am submitting my unbiased and voluntary review and opinion.
I am posting this review to my GR and Bookbub accounts immediately and will post it to my Amazon, Instagram, and B&N accounts upon publication on 2/22/22.
I have read every book in this series, and I truly still feel as if they keep getting better and better. I always love visiting the small, quirky, and endearing village of Kilbane in County Cork. The full cast of characters make it feel like home. I also adore Siobhan O’ Sullivan and her partner in crime (or in this case law enforcement and fiancé as well ) Macdara Flannery. The chemistry is there, they work so well together, and the one-liners are entertaining.
This time Dara and Siobhan are finally going to get married (Yay!!!!!). But of course before they can say their vows, James ends up being late for the event due to finding a deceased person on what is to be the property of a surprise for Siobhan. ( I will leave it there detail wise so as not spoil anything for others.)
Their detective drive is too much to continue the day and the investigation has begun. The following murder/mystery plot is complicated by twists, turns, and arson. I enjoyed following along as the duo (along with their family and colleagues) get down to business to solve the crime before they become the next victims themselves.
As always, I loved everything about this book, and I also loved the last chapter, the reveals, and the ending. It was so sweet and I really like where this series is now going. It is going to be good!
5/5 stars
Thank you NG and Kensington for this wonderful arc and in return I am submitting my unbiased and voluntary review and opinion.
I am posting this review to my GR and Bookbub accounts immediately and will post it to my Amazon, Instagram, and B&N accounts upon publication on 2/22/22.
February 1, 2022
Murder on an Irish Farm is the eighth book in the Irish Village Mystery and I haven't missed a book in this series. I love returning to Kilbane Ireland with each new book and watching the O'Sullivan six grow and develop into the people they are supposed to be. This series is, at its heart, about family. The O'Sullivan siblings are great characters and have such diversity that there is plenty for every reader to enjoy. Their strength, love, and a strong sense of family continue to carry them, even through difficult times. One of the strengths of this series is the protagonist -Siobhan O'Sullivan. She is an intelligent, strong female protagonist that is able to handle herself in most situations. She is complemented by a partner (both on the force and in life) that recognizes all of this in her and tries to help her continue to grow.
In this book, Ms. O'Connor has plenty of changes in store for the O'Sullivan siblings. The most obvious change is the marriage of Siobhan to Dara. It is what many readers have been waiting for and I applaud Ms. O'Connor for allowing their relationship to progress at a natural pace until it felt right for them to take the next step and marry. However, everything does not go as planned and when James discovers a dead body on a nearby farm that Dara bought as a wedding present, the wedding is put on hold until the murder can be solved.
Ms. O'Connor delights her readers with not one, but two murders - one which occurred in the past and another very recent murder. Siobhan and Dara must figure out if they are related and if so, are they dealing with one killer or more. This mystery was well-plotted. It moved along at a great pace and the author provided the reader with plenty of suspects to ponder. There were twists and turns to keep the reader on their toes and for me a killer that was not even on my radar.
This is a terrific series that has everything a cozy mystery reader could want - a charming/idyllic setting, terrific characters, and mysteries that make the reader think while keeping them engaged. Each new book in this series is a must-read for me.
I voluntarily read a digital advanced reader copy provided to me by the publisher, Kensington, through NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own and are in no way influenced by the manner in which I received this book.
In this book, Ms. O'Connor has plenty of changes in store for the O'Sullivan siblings. The most obvious change is the marriage of Siobhan to Dara. It is what many readers have been waiting for and I applaud Ms. O'Connor for allowing their relationship to progress at a natural pace until it felt right for them to take the next step and marry. However, everything does not go as planned and when James discovers a dead body on a nearby farm that Dara bought as a wedding present, the wedding is put on hold until the murder can be solved.
Ms. O'Connor delights her readers with not one, but two murders - one which occurred in the past and another very recent murder. Siobhan and Dara must figure out if they are related and if so, are they dealing with one killer or more. This mystery was well-plotted. It moved along at a great pace and the author provided the reader with plenty of suspects to ponder. There were twists and turns to keep the reader on their toes and for me a killer that was not even on my radar.
This is a terrific series that has everything a cozy mystery reader could want - a charming/idyllic setting, terrific characters, and mysteries that make the reader think while keeping them engaged. Each new book in this series is a must-read for me.
I voluntarily read a digital advanced reader copy provided to me by the publisher, Kensington, through NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own and are in no way influenced by the manner in which I received this book.
March 24, 2022
Thanks to Charlene O'Connor and Kensington Publishing Corp. for the ARC. Apologies for taking so long and not getting a review before the publication date.
I have loved this entire Irish Village Mystery series and in the Audible versions the narrator, Caroline Lennon, does a grand job of it.
This mystery starts out on Siobhán O’Sullivan and Macdaras Flannery's wedding day. Abundant laughs as the bride's sister is trying to get her ready for her wedding.
Unfortunately, not long into the book, standing at the altar and down to the "I Do" part, the plot went south for me. After all the ups and downs this couple has had they can't take the time to "I Do" before going to check out a murder? Sorry, that does not ring true. And if my husband had done that to me I would have thought, well I see where his priorities lay, and that would be that. Then throughout the entire book, Siobhán keeps having doubts about marriage. I'm sure this happens but you should never even start planning your wedding if there are any doubts.
Book 8 had unrealistic twists and turns throughout. The author was able to wind the story up in a way that gave me some satisfaction but still left me scratching my head with many of the explanations, i.e. how can a 12-year-old ever be mistaken for a 5-yr-old and then grow up to be a normal-sized man?? (Gary Coleman comes to mind here.)
It was nice to read about the main characters and books 1-7 really are good reads. I would rate this the lowest in the series and that is too bad because now I'm hesitant to read a number 9 if it comes along.
I have loved this entire Irish Village Mystery series and in the Audible versions the narrator, Caroline Lennon, does a grand job of it.
This mystery starts out on Siobhán O’Sullivan and Macdaras Flannery's wedding day. Abundant laughs as the bride's sister is trying to get her ready for her wedding.
Unfortunately, not long into the book, standing at the altar and down to the "I Do" part, the plot went south for me. After all the ups and downs this couple has had they can't take the time to "I Do" before going to check out a murder? Sorry, that does not ring true. And if my husband had done that to me I would have thought, well I see where his priorities lay, and that would be that. Then throughout the entire book, Siobhán keeps having doubts about marriage. I'm sure this happens but you should never even start planning your wedding if there are any doubts.
Book 8 had unrealistic twists and turns throughout. The author was able to wind the story up in a way that gave me some satisfaction but still left me scratching my head with many of the explanations, i.e. how can a 12-year-old ever be mistaken for a 5-yr-old and then grow up to be a normal-sized man?? (Gary Coleman comes to mind here.)
It was nice to read about the main characters and books 1-7 really are good reads. I would rate this the lowest in the series and that is too bad because now I'm hesitant to read a number 9 if it comes along.
January 24, 2022
It's time for the big wedding, but things go off the rails and it looks like the O'Sullivan-Flannery union may not end up getting made after all when a cold case becomes very hot after many years dormant! This series is so outstanding! I absolutely love all the characters and the interactions between them. The female lead is strong, intelligent and able to defend herself while complimenting her partner in life and the guarda! The author weaves plots that keep you intrigued and entertained while you attempt to unravel the clues along with the sleuths as you are brought along on their investigation. If you haven't started this series, you absolutely should as you are completely missing out!
February 17, 2022
Barbara’s rating: 5 of 5 Stars
Series: Irish Village Mystery #8
Publication Date: 2/22/22
Period: Contemporary Kilbane village in County Cork, Ireland
Number of Pages: 304
Ah! What a delightfully satisfying read! We start with the wedding that wasn’t, end with the wedding that was, and everything between was absolutely wonderful. The mystery was interesting with a plethora of murder suspects for Dara and Siobhan to sort through and not one, but two murders to solve. Are the murders related even though they are fifty years apart? Who knows – you’ll have to read the book to find out.
Garda Siobhan O’Sullivan and Detective Sergeant Macdara Flannery are at the altar saying their vows when her older brother, James, flies through the door with news of a body having been found – on their new property. They postpone the wedding and the investigation begins and what a twisted mess it is. The body, it appears, has been in that pit for years – and that proves to be correct. Now, everybody knows what happened to Tommy Caffrey on his wedding day fifty years earlier. He didn’t skip out on the wedding; he was lying dead in a cow pit. Before Dara and Siobhan can get the first body cleared there is another body. This time it is Alan O’Leary, the man who would have become Tommy’s brother-in-law. Alan’s body was discovered directly on top of Tommy’s bones. Surely the two murders are connected – or are they?
I absolutely love the way Dara and Siobhan work together – their love and support for one another is very special and their complementary skills assure the villains will be caught. When you add in Siobhan’s brood of brothers and sisters, you have an absolutely delightful cast of characters to accompany an equally delightful mystery.
This is the eighth book in the series, and I have read and adored all eight of them. I highly recommend both the book and the series. You could read this as a standalone, but if you want to understand the complete dynamic of all of the relationships, you really need to read all of the books in order. The characters have grown so far and it was such a delight to see that growth happen from book to book.
I highly recommend this well-written mystery filled with delightful support characters and vile villains – and goodness, there are even trained hawks to pique your interest. Happy reading!
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy (ARC) of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Series: Irish Village Mystery #8
Publication Date: 2/22/22
Period: Contemporary Kilbane village in County Cork, Ireland
Number of Pages: 304
Ah! What a delightfully satisfying read! We start with the wedding that wasn’t, end with the wedding that was, and everything between was absolutely wonderful. The mystery was interesting with a plethora of murder suspects for Dara and Siobhan to sort through and not one, but two murders to solve. Are the murders related even though they are fifty years apart? Who knows – you’ll have to read the book to find out.
Garda Siobhan O’Sullivan and Detective Sergeant Macdara Flannery are at the altar saying their vows when her older brother, James, flies through the door with news of a body having been found – on their new property. They postpone the wedding and the investigation begins and what a twisted mess it is. The body, it appears, has been in that pit for years – and that proves to be correct. Now, everybody knows what happened to Tommy Caffrey on his wedding day fifty years earlier. He didn’t skip out on the wedding; he was lying dead in a cow pit. Before Dara and Siobhan can get the first body cleared there is another body. This time it is Alan O’Leary, the man who would have become Tommy’s brother-in-law. Alan’s body was discovered directly on top of Tommy’s bones. Surely the two murders are connected – or are they?
I absolutely love the way Dara and Siobhan work together – their love and support for one another is very special and their complementary skills assure the villains will be caught. When you add in Siobhan’s brood of brothers and sisters, you have an absolutely delightful cast of characters to accompany an equally delightful mystery.
This is the eighth book in the series, and I have read and adored all eight of them. I highly recommend both the book and the series. You could read this as a standalone, but if you want to understand the complete dynamic of all of the relationships, you really need to read all of the books in order. The characters have grown so far and it was such a delight to see that growth happen from book to book.
I highly recommend this well-written mystery filled with delightful support characters and vile villains – and goodness, there are even trained hawks to pique your interest. Happy reading!
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy (ARC) of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
June 16, 2022
Generally, books that I want to rate 3 stars have a decent premise but then the characters/writing/etc. have things that took me out of the experience. This one's a bit different -- for me, personally, this book's characters and writing style and such are solid enough, but I just...could not. get over. the framing.
The whole time as I read this, I was SEETHING over the logistics of a cancelled wedding. They cancel this entire ceremony with catering and rented venues and friends who surely flew in from out of town to spend time with the couple ONLY because they saw James look disheveled. They had no reason yet to believe (without spoiling too much) that we needed to take cover immediately because people are in danger as an emergency -- James just looked scared and dirty. They called the wedding off BEFORE asking him what was up. Unfortunately, in my opinion, that threw off my ability to tell which things are high-stakes and what things aren't for the rest of the book. This case wasn't an emergency, nobody knew yet how it'd escalate, and yet THIS nuclear response is what they had... so I spent the rest of the book rolling my eyes when the family was sitting together eating at their bistro, having picnics, taking their time. Where's that urgency from before that made cancelling the wedding worth it? I couldn't ever trust anyone's responses to high-stakes issues.
I think the reason why this bugs me so much, why I didn't just get over it and get into the meat of the story, is because the characters often revisit the wedding stuff too in, somehow, at the same time, constantly-nagging and yet deeply-underplayed ways. I can't tell what we're going for here -- is it that Siobhan was second-guessing whether she wanted to be married? Did she simply not want a ceremony anyway? The thing is, I actually really LIKE the way that Siobhan watches the elderly couple bicker and it causes her to question what the definition of marriage will be for her. This is a super interesting thing for her character. But there wasn't much -before- they just up and cancelled everything that showed she wasn't confident in being married. It's just...all really hard to follow, and makes me question what these characters are learning/growing from.
I think this might simply not be for me... it's hard, because there ARE a lot of great things about this book. I love learning about Irish culture and these characters' personalities are fun. The descriptive writing is nice and there's some really clever dialogue such as "putting out to pasture" in reference to the dairy farm that made me chuckle out loud. I would definitely recommend this to anyone with a different level of suspension of disbelief than I have, but for me personally, man, I was so distracted the whole time and couldn't get into the stuff that SHOULD matter most: the mystery and the connecting themes.
The whole time as I read this, I was SEETHING over the logistics of a cancelled wedding. They cancel this entire ceremony with catering and rented venues and friends who surely flew in from out of town to spend time with the couple ONLY because they saw James look disheveled. They had no reason yet to believe (without spoiling too much) that we needed to take cover immediately because people are in danger as an emergency -- James just looked scared and dirty. They called the wedding off BEFORE asking him what was up. Unfortunately, in my opinion, that threw off my ability to tell which things are high-stakes and what things aren't for the rest of the book. This case wasn't an emergency, nobody knew yet how it'd escalate, and yet THIS nuclear response is what they had... so I spent the rest of the book rolling my eyes when the family was sitting together eating at their bistro, having picnics, taking their time. Where's that urgency from before that made cancelling the wedding worth it? I couldn't ever trust anyone's responses to high-stakes issues.
I think the reason why this bugs me so much, why I didn't just get over it and get into the meat of the story, is because the characters often revisit the wedding stuff too in, somehow, at the same time, constantly-nagging and yet deeply-underplayed ways. I can't tell what we're going for here -- is it that Siobhan was second-guessing whether she wanted to be married? Did she simply not want a ceremony anyway? The thing is, I actually really LIKE the way that Siobhan watches the elderly couple bicker and it causes her to question what the definition of marriage will be for her. This is a super interesting thing for her character. But there wasn't much -before- they just up and cancelled everything that showed she wasn't confident in being married. It's just...all really hard to follow, and makes me question what these characters are learning/growing from.
I think this might simply not be for me... it's hard, because there ARE a lot of great things about this book. I love learning about Irish culture and these characters' personalities are fun. The descriptive writing is nice and there's some really clever dialogue such as "putting out to pasture" in reference to the dairy farm that made me chuckle out loud. I would definitely recommend this to anyone with a different level of suspension of disbelief than I have, but for me personally, man, I was so distracted the whole time and couldn't get into the stuff that SHOULD matter most: the mystery and the connecting themes.
December 14, 2021
Thank you to Kensington Books for randomly selecting me to receive an ARC of the latest Irish Village Mystery, Murder on an Irish Farm by Carlene O'Connor. This is a new series and author for me and I enjoyed it. Kudos to the author for a nicely put together murder mystery. While this is the eighth book in a series, those of us who have not read the first seven books will still find it a good story. Obviously she references past events and the connections between characters, they do not overshadow the storyline of this particular book. Well done. 3.5* for me.
March 15, 2022
MURDER ON AN IRISH FARM is the eighth book in the Irish Village Mysteries by Carlene O’Connor. This newest addition to a delightful series can easily be read as a standalone, however, it’s been a huge pleasure watching the characters develop over the years from the very first book. The protagonist, Siobhán O’Sullivan, isn’t your usual amateur sleuth. Instead, she’s an Irish garda and has the necessary skills to investigate crimes in their village. Despite her occupation, she has a deep caring side for those in need, especially when it comes to her orphaned siblings, whom she’s mothered over the years after the unexpected death of their parents. I greatly enjoy seeing their interaction and while there might be a lot of teasing and sometimes annoyance, you can feel their genuine love for each other. Siobhán garda partner and soon-to-be husband, Macdaras Flannery, fits into her and her siblings’ life perfectly. I appreciate that he doesn’t try to minimize Siobhán’s commitment to her siblings but instead, embraces it and pitches in where needed. Ms. O’Connor flavors the book with Irish colloquialisms and her descriptive voice brings the village and surrounding countryside to life. It made me yearn to revisit Ireland and experience the delightful people and country in person again.
When an old skeleton is found on the farm Macdaras purchased for Siobhán as a wedding present, the couple postpone their vows and try to determine who the victim was and who might have wanted to kill him. When a new victim shows up in the same location, the stakes turn even higher. I enjoyed the way the author effectively ties in the old murder with the new one. As the clues unfolded, the story turned in directions I hadn’t anticipated and kept me glued to the pages. She also includes clues involving falconry and a slurry pit. It’s quite obvious that a lot of research was done on both subjects and I appreciated the realistic details woven into the story. Those details never slowed down the fast-paced plot and only added to the enjoyment of the book.
When an old skeleton is found on the farm Macdaras purchased for Siobhán as a wedding present, the couple postpone their vows and try to determine who the victim was and who might have wanted to kill him. When a new victim shows up in the same location, the stakes turn even higher. I enjoyed the way the author effectively ties in the old murder with the new one. As the clues unfolded, the story turned in directions I hadn’t anticipated and kept me glued to the pages. She also includes clues involving falconry and a slurry pit. It’s quite obvious that a lot of research was done on both subjects and I appreciated the realistic details woven into the story. Those details never slowed down the fast-paced plot and only added to the enjoyment of the book.
February 10, 2022
“Murder on an Irish Farm” the 8th instalment in the "Irish Village" Mystery series by Carlene O’Connor. This is one of my many favourite cozy series and I loved this story!
The long-engaged garda of County Cork, Ireland, Siobhán O’Sullivan and Macdaras Flannery, are about to get married at last. But just as the rowdy O’Sullivan brood and all the regulars of the local bistro have gathered at the church, the nuptials come to an abrupt halt when the discovery of an unidentified skeleton puts the wedding on pause…
I always love visiting the village of Kilbane in County Cork and the O'Sullivan Six. Siobhán is getting married to Macdara finally but best man James hasn’t shown up yet. Now Siobhan is worrying what could of happened to him as he wouldn’t miss her big day. I love the characters which are well developed, plus we were introduced to her new neighbours the O’Learys.
The mystery is super interesting and well plotted, and loaded with red herrings. I kept guessing and second-guessing myself on whodunnit right to the very end.
I highly recommend this book to all my cozy loving friends.
I requested and received an advance reader copy of this book from Kensington Books and Netgalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
The long-engaged garda of County Cork, Ireland, Siobhán O’Sullivan and Macdaras Flannery, are about to get married at last. But just as the rowdy O’Sullivan brood and all the regulars of the local bistro have gathered at the church, the nuptials come to an abrupt halt when the discovery of an unidentified skeleton puts the wedding on pause…
I always love visiting the village of Kilbane in County Cork and the O'Sullivan Six. Siobhán is getting married to Macdara finally but best man James hasn’t shown up yet. Now Siobhan is worrying what could of happened to him as he wouldn’t miss her big day. I love the characters which are well developed, plus we were introduced to her new neighbours the O’Learys.
The mystery is super interesting and well plotted, and loaded with red herrings. I kept guessing and second-guessing myself on whodunnit right to the very end.
I highly recommend this book to all my cozy loving friends.
I requested and received an advance reader copy of this book from Kensington Books and Netgalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
November 17, 2021
It's the day we've all been waiting for. Siobhan and Macdara are finally saying I Do, well, maybe in a typical book, but not in Murder on an Irish Farm.
Sadly, Siobhan and Dara have to postpone their nuptials, after all, a dead body requires immediate attention.
This book is fantastic and I love the relationships among all the characters in the story.
This one is a real whodunit and I found myself shocked at the reveal. The story is cunning and as the mystery unravels, we find out the shocking truth.
I am happy to recommend this book to all readers.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for selecting me to read an advanced copy of this book.
#MurderonanIrishFarm #NetGalley
Sadly, Siobhan and Dara have to postpone their nuptials, after all, a dead body requires immediate attention.
This book is fantastic and I love the relationships among all the characters in the story.
This one is a real whodunit and I found myself shocked at the reveal. The story is cunning and as the mystery unravels, we find out the shocking truth.
I am happy to recommend this book to all readers.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for selecting me to read an advanced copy of this book.
#MurderonanIrishFarm #NetGalley
February 11, 2023
This is the day Siobhán O’Sullivan is to be
married to Detective Sergeant Macdara
Flannery.
What could possibly interfere with this
upcoming union?
How about the finding of a dead body by
Siobhán’s brother just as the wedding is
beginning.
The characters were well fleshed, intriguing
and very creative. I found it interesting being
able to follow the characters backstories in
depth along with the present.
The author’s descriptions were colorful and
detailed putting the reader right in Ireland.
I volunteered to read Murder on an Irish Farm.
Thanks to Goodreads for the opportunity.
My opinion is voluntary and my own.
married to Detective Sergeant Macdara
Flannery.
What could possibly interfere with this
upcoming union?
How about the finding of a dead body by
Siobhán’s brother just as the wedding is
beginning.
The characters were well fleshed, intriguing
and very creative. I found it interesting being
able to follow the characters backstories in
depth along with the present.
The author’s descriptions were colorful and
detailed putting the reader right in Ireland.
I volunteered to read Murder on an Irish Farm.
Thanks to Goodreads for the opportunity.
My opinion is voluntary and my own.
April 24, 2023
Murder on an Irish Farm is the 8th book in the Irish Village Mystery series and the best one yet in my opinion. Although the mystery is self-contained in this book, reading the full series will give you a full understanding of the characters and their development over the last 7 books. The relationship between Siobhán and Macdara is an overall story arc. This book begins with Siobhán's and Macdara's wedding getting started, but her brother James, who is walking her down the aisle is not there. One of her other brothers walks her down, but before their vows are complete, James shows up and lets them know that he has found a dead body. With the wedding coming to a stop, they are off to investigate. It turns out that the skeleton that is from a missing person case from 50 years earlier is found in the slurry at the farmhouse that Macdara has purchased as a wedding surprise for Siobhán. As evidence is found, the old case investigated and questions are answered, the case unfolds, but the suspect it begins to point to was too young at the time to have killed anyone. The second body that shows up in the slurry, heats the case up quickly.
I have enjoyed this series from the beginning and was thinking it was winding down, but this book ramped up my interest quickly. This was a very interesting case with few suspects (50 years ago), but a lot of questions. There is some missing money and note but are those red herrings or do they point to the killer. I enjoyed seeing new Garda Aretta Dabiri play a larger role in this story, including having a personal connection to the family. The more they investigate, the more questions they have. I really love seeing the process and how both Siobhán's and Aretta's minds work. This was a twisty mystery, having to tie both murders together and determine what really happened 50 years ago. I didn't figure this one out, but has some suspicions. When the reveal came, I was able to think back and see all the clues as they were sprinkled throughout the story. I really enjoy seeing Siobhán's family grow and change along the way, and with the addition of a new husband (maybe), Garda Siobhán O'Sullivan seems to be headed into a new life. Once again I did a read/listen to this book, but more listen as I really enjoyed the narration. Caroline Lennon does a wonderful job with her voices, expression and emotion. Using accents and tone, she gives all the characters their own personality. If you enjoy audiobooks, then this series is a good one to listen to, but any of the formats would be an enjoyable experience.
I have enjoyed this series from the beginning and was thinking it was winding down, but this book ramped up my interest quickly. This was a very interesting case with few suspects (50 years ago), but a lot of questions. There is some missing money and note but are those red herrings or do they point to the killer. I enjoyed seeing new Garda Aretta Dabiri play a larger role in this story, including having a personal connection to the family. The more they investigate, the more questions they have. I really love seeing the process and how both Siobhán's and Aretta's minds work. This was a twisty mystery, having to tie both murders together and determine what really happened 50 years ago. I didn't figure this one out, but has some suspicions. When the reveal came, I was able to think back and see all the clues as they were sprinkled throughout the story. I really enjoy seeing Siobhán's family grow and change along the way, and with the addition of a new husband (maybe), Garda Siobhán O'Sullivan seems to be headed into a new life. Once again I did a read/listen to this book, but more listen as I really enjoyed the narration. Caroline Lennon does a wonderful job with her voices, expression and emotion. Using accents and tone, she gives all the characters their own personality. If you enjoy audiobooks, then this series is a good one to listen to, but any of the formats would be an enjoyable experience.
February 27, 2022
This is a charming light mystery ,a series of mysteries .I found it quite funny and i loved the setting ,I would read others. I cannot resist a book by an Irish Author or set in Ireland I dream of going there someday-
February 2, 2022
Siobhán’s wedding day, and her brother, James, is late. She doesn’t want to marry without him, but it isn’t fair to Macdara or the guests. So, even though she has a bad feeling about everything, she walks down the aisle. As usual, her instincts are correct, and just as they are about to exchange their vows, James comes running into the church. It only takes this Irish bride a second to realize her brother is panicked and the wedding is a bust. In Murder On An Irish Farm, the death of a groom many years ago becomes a gross slurry of a mess and an uninvited guest at the wedding of two of the county’s favorite Garda.
The characters in this series are always good to spend time with. I adore Siobhán’s siblings. Other characters are equal parts delightful and grumbly but always intriguing. This time, the wedding of Siobhán takes a turn for the macabre when a skeleton turns up in the slurry pit of the farm Macdara bought as a surprise wedding gift. Within minutes a neighbor is screaming to the rafters that the skeleton can be none other than her missing groom, that she was supposed to marry on that very day fifty years earlier. It doesn’t take long to figure out the dead groom was murdered, and it is up to Siobhán and Macdara to figure out the who, why, and when of it all.
Suspects are gathered, with plenty of motive. Evidence is collected and examined. And before long, a new body shows up, fresh as a daisy. There is a bit of wondering from the reader's point of view as to whether or not Siobhán is finding ways of putting off the wedding out of fear, and using the murder(s) as the excuse. The fact that Macdara bought a farm with a slurry pit without asking Siobhán bothers me a bit, it seems way to presumptuous of him. I like the controversy over the bistro and the solution to the issue.
Of course, the murderer is caught, and the wedding proceeds. The farm is accepted and loved by everyone, the slurry pit filled in, and the bistro issue is resolved. There is plenty of action for readers to enjoy, and the characters are as always entertaining. The Irish setting is lovely and makes readers want to visit. Overall, Murder On An Irish Farm is a delightful story that readers will love. I look forward to the next installment in this series.
The characters in this series are always good to spend time with. I adore Siobhán’s siblings. Other characters are equal parts delightful and grumbly but always intriguing. This time, the wedding of Siobhán takes a turn for the macabre when a skeleton turns up in the slurry pit of the farm Macdara bought as a surprise wedding gift. Within minutes a neighbor is screaming to the rafters that the skeleton can be none other than her missing groom, that she was supposed to marry on that very day fifty years earlier. It doesn’t take long to figure out the dead groom was murdered, and it is up to Siobhán and Macdara to figure out the who, why, and when of it all.
Suspects are gathered, with plenty of motive. Evidence is collected and examined. And before long, a new body shows up, fresh as a daisy. There is a bit of wondering from the reader's point of view as to whether or not Siobhán is finding ways of putting off the wedding out of fear, and using the murder(s) as the excuse. The fact that Macdara bought a farm with a slurry pit without asking Siobhán bothers me a bit, it seems way to presumptuous of him. I like the controversy over the bistro and the solution to the issue.
Of course, the murderer is caught, and the wedding proceeds. The farm is accepted and loved by everyone, the slurry pit filled in, and the bistro issue is resolved. There is plenty of action for readers to enjoy, and the characters are as always entertaining. The Irish setting is lovely and makes readers want to visit. Overall, Murder On An Irish Farm is a delightful story that readers will love. I look forward to the next installment in this series.
December 1, 2021
This ARC was provided to me via Kindle by Kensington Books and #NetGalley for my honest opinion. Opinions expressed are completely my own.
Eighth in the series, you don’t have to read the others first to follow along- I didn’t. Fast paced and enjoyable a delightful cozy mystery fun story with warm characters.
Eighth in the series, you don’t have to read the others first to follow along- I didn’t. Fast paced and enjoyable a delightful cozy mystery fun story with warm characters.
February 21, 2022
Murder on an Irish Farm is the 8th book in the Cozy Irish Murder Mystery series by Carlene O'Connor. I picked up this series with Murder at an Irish Christmas (book 6) which I thoroughly enjoyed, and I'm very keen to read books 1 through to 5.
In this instalment, Garda Siobhán O'Sullivan is being kept busy on the force of Garda Aretta Dabiri and is all set for her wedding to fiancé, Detective Sergeant Macdara Flannery. Everyone is at the church and the couple is close to saying "I do" when there is a sudden announcement from a missing key guest about a dead body having been found in a farmhouse slurry pit.
This is an extremely intriguing tale and protagonist Garda Siobhán O'Sullivan is a great character. She is smart and fiery and has sound reasoning for her thoughts and actions. There are suspects aplenty in this gripping mystery, the details of the plot are very well executed, and the story is amusing and easy to follow. Carlene O'Connor wowed me again with her fluid writing; I was kept guessing until the very end and really enjoyed this cleverly crafted cosy. I thoroughly enjoyed being back with the O'Sullivan crowd. Unravelling the mystery in the pockets of Siobhán was lots of fun and I absolutely love the way Dara and Siobhan work together. Their love and support for one another are wonderful and their combined skills ensure success. I found the pacing perfect for the story. Loaded with red herrings and with many humorous one-liners, Murder on an Irish Farm is a highly recommended five star read and a fabulous story that will be of interest to many cozy readers. Right up until the surprising conclusion, I just had to keep turning those pages and I didn’t figure out the identity of the perpetrator in this mystery, although I had them on my plausible suspect list. I’m certainly game to see what shenanigans Siobhán and the Kilbane rabble get into next.
I received a complimentary copy of this novel at my request from Kensington Books via NetGalley and this review is my own unbiased opinion.
In this instalment, Garda Siobhán O'Sullivan is being kept busy on the force of Garda Aretta Dabiri and is all set for her wedding to fiancé, Detective Sergeant Macdara Flannery. Everyone is at the church and the couple is close to saying "I do" when there is a sudden announcement from a missing key guest about a dead body having been found in a farmhouse slurry pit.
This is an extremely intriguing tale and protagonist Garda Siobhán O'Sullivan is a great character. She is smart and fiery and has sound reasoning for her thoughts and actions. There are suspects aplenty in this gripping mystery, the details of the plot are very well executed, and the story is amusing and easy to follow. Carlene O'Connor wowed me again with her fluid writing; I was kept guessing until the very end and really enjoyed this cleverly crafted cosy. I thoroughly enjoyed being back with the O'Sullivan crowd. Unravelling the mystery in the pockets of Siobhán was lots of fun and I absolutely love the way Dara and Siobhan work together. Their love and support for one another are wonderful and their combined skills ensure success. I found the pacing perfect for the story. Loaded with red herrings and with many humorous one-liners, Murder on an Irish Farm is a highly recommended five star read and a fabulous story that will be of interest to many cozy readers. Right up until the surprising conclusion, I just had to keep turning those pages and I didn’t figure out the identity of the perpetrator in this mystery, although I had them on my plausible suspect list. I’m certainly game to see what shenanigans Siobhán and the Kilbane rabble get into next.
I received a complimentary copy of this novel at my request from Kensington Books via NetGalley and this review is my own unbiased opinion.
January 16, 2026
It took a bit to follow certain plot points but the answer to the mystery was quite surprising. I would read more in this series
February 28, 2022
Of course Siobhan and Macdara couldn't have a wedding without murder! lol What a grand addition to the Irish Village Mystery series. Solid mystery plots paired with humour and O'Sullivan family antics makes this a series I keep coming back to. And I absolutely adore the narrator -- Caroline Lennon. This is definitely a series I will always listen to rather then read.
September 15, 2024
Finally! In this eighth in series book, Garda Siobhán O'Sullivan and her beloved Detective Sergeant MacDara Flannery are about to tie the knot. Of course those plans are derailed when her brother bursts into the church and announces that he's encountered a dead body in a barn's slurry pit. Yeah, that same barn on the property of the O'Sullivan-Flannery recently purchased marital home. Oh wait, that was supposed to be a surprise wedding gift from MacDara to Siobhán. Oops! So much for that. It turns out that it's the body of someone who was believed to have absconded with €30,000.00 on his own wedding day - the exact same day (but 50 years previously), leaving the bride jilted at the altar. Hmm, amazing coincidence which Siobhán doesn't believe for a moment. Well, no wedding bells until Siobhán and MacDara get to the bottom of this mystery and solve two murders and hopefuly avoid getting themselves murdered in the process.
Even though these books can stand on their own, the personal stories which unfold around the various mysteries is well worth reading them in their order. As cozy mysteries go, this is one of the most enjoyable series for its charm, wit and warmth. Although considered a "cozy" mystery, the protagonist is a member of the local constabulary (and not an amateur sleuth) which gives the book an element of believability and a touch more gravitas.
Publisher: Kensington Books
Publication date: February 22, 2022
Number of Pages: 402
ISBN: 1496730836
Even though these books can stand on their own, the personal stories which unfold around the various mysteries is well worth reading them in their order. As cozy mysteries go, this is one of the most enjoyable series for its charm, wit and warmth. Although considered a "cozy" mystery, the protagonist is a member of the local constabulary (and not an amateur sleuth) which gives the book an element of believability and a touch more gravitas.
Publisher: Kensington Books
Publication date: February 22, 2022
Number of Pages: 402
ISBN: 1496730836
January 16, 2022
As an avid mystery reader, I enjoyed the ride in reading this book. Thank you Penguin Random House and Goodreads for the opportunity. It was a cozy mystery I not only found entertaining but educational. I liked the characters. No body annoyed me. The book also had elements I thought were great:
1. Senior citizens accounting for their "drama filled youth"/ secrets from the past
2. The not too romantic couple. The two main investigating police officers called Guards who are engaged to each other were not sickenly romantic. This is a murder mystery after all.
3. The creepy/ menacing kid that grows up to be a lunatic adult.
This mystery satisfied me from beginning to end. It was a fun read.
1. Senior citizens accounting for their "drama filled youth"/ secrets from the past
2. The not too romantic couple. The two main investigating police officers called Guards who are engaged to each other were not sickenly romantic. This is a murder mystery after all.
3. The creepy/ menacing kid that grows up to be a lunatic adult.
This mystery satisfied me from beginning to end. It was a fun read.
November 2, 2021
Siobhán O'Sullivan is preparing for her wedding to fellow garda Detective Macdara Flannery. But her brother James, who is to give her away, is missing. After learning that they must be married soon, she proceeds down the aisle with her brother Eoin at her arm. Yet before the ceremony begins, James enters, covered in mud, and, knowing it's important or he wouldn't show up that way, the wedding is postponed. Now the two have a major problem: there's a skeleton in the slurry pit of the farm that Macdara had purchased as a wedding surprise.
But when it's discovered that the body is Tommy Caffrey, who was thought to have run away the day of his own wedding fifty years before -- to the day -- along with thirty thousand quid, the two garda have a mystery to solve. Who killed Tommy? And when they arrive the next morning at the farm to further investigate, there is a crowd gathered and the once-jilted bride is crying, because now her own brother Alan lies on top of the skeleton.
With two bodies, and two murders, and many more suspects, how are they supposed to figure out if it's one murderer or two? But Siobhán has her own methods of looking at cases, as does Macdara, and together they vow to find out the truth. Unless, of course, the murderer decides to continue killing...
Siobhán is finally marrying her own one true love, Macdara, and is just as nervous as any bride would be. But it's not to be on this day, because she discovers something more important, in the form of finding out who wanted to kill Tommy Caffrey and why. But when she starts asking questions and digging into the murder, she discovers Tommy wasn't the saint his would-be bride, now married to his best friend, made him out to be.
She discovers secrets, lies, and treachery, things which may be common in a murder investigation; but how have they been held all of these fifty years? Someone isn't telling the truth, and it's her job to find out who. But what she doesn't count on is that more than one person is is lying, and it might put her in danger to keep on.
Still, as a garda, she needs to do so. But there is more afoot when she's informed by the parish priest of another issue that might change the lives of all the O'Sullivans. This she needs to put on the back burner while she tries to find a killer, but it nonetheless wears on her. Meanwhile, her fiancé Madara is trying to eat his way through Ireland and cracking jokes every chance he gets to lighten her mood. But is it going to be enough? And will she be able to figure out the case using her instincts, which have not failed her thus far?
This is the eighth book in the series, and can be read as a standalone. The books keep getting better, and while I will admit that I did struggle a bit through the first one (sometimes I have that problem with the first in a series) I am glad that I stuck with it. I had a suspicion of who the murderer was the minute that person stepped onto the page, and I am glad that I was right; but then again, I read a lot of mysteries so I am pretty good at picking up clues early on. Still, for the most part, there were plenty of red herrings, and if you haven't read a lot of mysteries, you might be steered into another direction, which is what mysteries do best.
Keep on with the book as the ending might surprise you, and Ms. O'Connor is such a delightful writer that I also read another series she authors; she has a way with descriptions and words that draw you into the story and the pictures fly right off the page. The books stay with you awhile, and that is exactly what they are supposed to do.
When the ending comes and the killer is revealed, the reasons why they killed are very sad as well as being twisted, but it all comes together nicely and the final pages are enjoyable and give us something to look forward to in the next book. Highly recommended.
I received an advance copy from the publisher and NetGalley but this in no way influenced my review.
But when it's discovered that the body is Tommy Caffrey, who was thought to have run away the day of his own wedding fifty years before -- to the day -- along with thirty thousand quid, the two garda have a mystery to solve. Who killed Tommy? And when they arrive the next morning at the farm to further investigate, there is a crowd gathered and the once-jilted bride is crying, because now her own brother Alan lies on top of the skeleton.
With two bodies, and two murders, and many more suspects, how are they supposed to figure out if it's one murderer or two? But Siobhán has her own methods of looking at cases, as does Macdara, and together they vow to find out the truth. Unless, of course, the murderer decides to continue killing...
Siobhán is finally marrying her own one true love, Macdara, and is just as nervous as any bride would be. But it's not to be on this day, because she discovers something more important, in the form of finding out who wanted to kill Tommy Caffrey and why. But when she starts asking questions and digging into the murder, she discovers Tommy wasn't the saint his would-be bride, now married to his best friend, made him out to be.
She discovers secrets, lies, and treachery, things which may be common in a murder investigation; but how have they been held all of these fifty years? Someone isn't telling the truth, and it's her job to find out who. But what she doesn't count on is that more than one person is is lying, and it might put her in danger to keep on.
Still, as a garda, she needs to do so. But there is more afoot when she's informed by the parish priest of another issue that might change the lives of all the O'Sullivans. This she needs to put on the back burner while she tries to find a killer, but it nonetheless wears on her. Meanwhile, her fiancé Madara is trying to eat his way through Ireland and cracking jokes every chance he gets to lighten her mood. But is it going to be enough? And will she be able to figure out the case using her instincts, which have not failed her thus far?
This is the eighth book in the series, and can be read as a standalone. The books keep getting better, and while I will admit that I did struggle a bit through the first one (sometimes I have that problem with the first in a series) I am glad that I stuck with it. I had a suspicion of who the murderer was the minute that person stepped onto the page, and I am glad that I was right; but then again, I read a lot of mysteries so I am pretty good at picking up clues early on. Still, for the most part, there were plenty of red herrings, and if you haven't read a lot of mysteries, you might be steered into another direction, which is what mysteries do best.
Keep on with the book as the ending might surprise you, and Ms. O'Connor is such a delightful writer that I also read another series she authors; she has a way with descriptions and words that draw you into the story and the pictures fly right off the page. The books stay with you awhile, and that is exactly what they are supposed to do.
When the ending comes and the killer is revealed, the reasons why they killed are very sad as well as being twisted, but it all comes together nicely and the final pages are enjoyable and give us something to look forward to in the next book. Highly recommended.
I received an advance copy from the publisher and NetGalley but this in no way influenced my review.
November 16, 2024
Love the setting. Like the characters. Quick and easy read. But I do think they need a better proof reader. People standing in areas that they already left, fires crackling in the background that didn’t exist just a sentence ago. But it’s a pleasant enough way to spend a gray rainy day.
May 2, 2022
The best laid plans...
As MURDER ON AN IRISH FARM (the 8th book in the Irish Village mystery series by Carlene O'Connor) opens, it is the wedding day for Siobhan O'Sullivan and Macdara Flannery. But following the cliche of nothing is ever easy, Siobhan's brother James is late and there's a priest champing at the bit because of another occasion he has to officiate.
But as the wedding gets started, James shows up in the middle of the ceremony. Looking quite the mess, he lets the not quite wedded couple know he's discovered a body on a nearby farm. That's the first surprise of the day. But with Siobhan and Macdara the only cops on hand that can investigate, they postpone the ceremony and head off to the farm to investigate.
Sure enough, they find the skeleton in a pit and soon find themselves digging through a murder that stretches back 50 years...to the day. The body is that of a man who disappeared on his own wedding day. Back then, everyone assumed the man had run off, cold feet and all.
With the identity confirmed, Siobhan, Macdara and the trainee cop Aretta find themselves with a pool of suspects who not only have more than enough motive to have wanted the victim dead, but dish out half-truths and outright lies when questioned. Things take an even darker turn when another victim shows up...in the same pit where the first skeleton was found.
Along with the murder investigation, Siobhan has to deal with news that affects her whole family while trying to catch a killer and make her way at long last to the altar. But all of her worries may be for naught because as she gets closer and closer to the truth, she becomes a target for a killer who has no problem disposing of those who get in their way.
Given the incredible amount of twists and turns in the murder plot, I found it pretty hard to figure out just who the killer was. Everybody lies, but in Kilbane, Ireland the numerous suspects raise lying to an artform.
As for the subplots, I loved the way Carlene O'Connor continues to develop each of the characters. Siobhan's inner dialogue with herself, the personality quirk that is revealed with Macdara and the continuing mystery that is Aretta. And the possible status quo shakeup for the O'Sullivan family was quite a revelation as well.
MURDER ON AN IRISH FARM has a taut whodunnit and great character moments that will make readers eager to see each new development in the story. It's part and parcel of why this the Irish Village mystery series continues to be one of the most anticipated releases for me each year. This is just a flat out great read!
As MURDER ON AN IRISH FARM (the 8th book in the Irish Village mystery series by Carlene O'Connor) opens, it is the wedding day for Siobhan O'Sullivan and Macdara Flannery. But following the cliche of nothing is ever easy, Siobhan's brother James is late and there's a priest champing at the bit because of another occasion he has to officiate.
But as the wedding gets started, James shows up in the middle of the ceremony. Looking quite the mess, he lets the not quite wedded couple know he's discovered a body on a nearby farm. That's the first surprise of the day. But with Siobhan and Macdara the only cops on hand that can investigate, they postpone the ceremony and head off to the farm to investigate.
Sure enough, they find the skeleton in a pit and soon find themselves digging through a murder that stretches back 50 years...to the day. The body is that of a man who disappeared on his own wedding day. Back then, everyone assumed the man had run off, cold feet and all.
With the identity confirmed, Siobhan, Macdara and the trainee cop Aretta find themselves with a pool of suspects who not only have more than enough motive to have wanted the victim dead, but dish out half-truths and outright lies when questioned. Things take an even darker turn when another victim shows up...in the same pit where the first skeleton was found.
Along with the murder investigation, Siobhan has to deal with news that affects her whole family while trying to catch a killer and make her way at long last to the altar. But all of her worries may be for naught because as she gets closer and closer to the truth, she becomes a target for a killer who has no problem disposing of those who get in their way.
Given the incredible amount of twists and turns in the murder plot, I found it pretty hard to figure out just who the killer was. Everybody lies, but in Kilbane, Ireland the numerous suspects raise lying to an artform.
As for the subplots, I loved the way Carlene O'Connor continues to develop each of the characters. Siobhan's inner dialogue with herself, the personality quirk that is revealed with Macdara and the continuing mystery that is Aretta. And the possible status quo shakeup for the O'Sullivan family was quite a revelation as well.
MURDER ON AN IRISH FARM has a taut whodunnit and great character moments that will make readers eager to see each new development in the story. It's part and parcel of why this the Irish Village mystery series continues to be one of the most anticipated releases for me each year. This is just a flat out great read!
March 3, 2022
Originally posted on my blog: Nonstop Reader.
Murder on an Irish Farm is the 8th Irish Village cozy mystery by Carlene O'Connor. Released 22nd Feb 2022 by Kensington, it's 336 pages and is available in hardcover, audio, and ebook formats. It's worth noting that the ebook format has a handy interactive table of contents as well as interactive links. I've really become enamored of ebooks with interactive formats lately.
This is such a well written and engaging mystery, set in Ireland. Despite being the 8th book in the series, I had no trouble at all following the story or keeping the characters straight. It works very well as a standalone and it's written well enough that I'm inclined to seek out the earlier books whilst waiting for the next installment.
The book opens dramatically enough with one of the MC's brothers, who should be the best man in her wedding bursting into the church, already late for the actual nuptials, exclaiming that he's found a (long dead) body in a slurry pit on a dairy farm. The MC and her fiance are both law enforcement, detective sergeant (him) and garda officer (her). The plot revolves around the unraveling of the cold case disappearance/murder from 50 years ago, alongside the modern crimes which occur as fallout.
A strong subplot element has to do with falconry and birds of prey and I found those aspects really fascinating. The author is either involved with rehab/birds of prey or has really good research resources. Either way, it's fascinating to read and added a lot of atmosphere.
Although the author is apparently American, the dialogue, spelling, and vernacular are Irish standard (torch, lorry, crisps, chipper (note, not chippy)). It shouldn't present any problems in context for readers outside the UK/Ireland.
Four and a half stars. Entertaining and well written. A diverting read for fans of the genre.
Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes.
Murder on an Irish Farm is the 8th Irish Village cozy mystery by Carlene O'Connor. Released 22nd Feb 2022 by Kensington, it's 336 pages and is available in hardcover, audio, and ebook formats. It's worth noting that the ebook format has a handy interactive table of contents as well as interactive links. I've really become enamored of ebooks with interactive formats lately.
This is such a well written and engaging mystery, set in Ireland. Despite being the 8th book in the series, I had no trouble at all following the story or keeping the characters straight. It works very well as a standalone and it's written well enough that I'm inclined to seek out the earlier books whilst waiting for the next installment.
The book opens dramatically enough with one of the MC's brothers, who should be the best man in her wedding bursting into the church, already late for the actual nuptials, exclaiming that he's found a (long dead) body in a slurry pit on a dairy farm. The MC and her fiance are both law enforcement, detective sergeant (him) and garda officer (her). The plot revolves around the unraveling of the cold case disappearance/murder from 50 years ago, alongside the modern crimes which occur as fallout.
A strong subplot element has to do with falconry and birds of prey and I found those aspects really fascinating. The author is either involved with rehab/birds of prey or has really good research resources. Either way, it's fascinating to read and added a lot of atmosphere.
Although the author is apparently American, the dialogue, spelling, and vernacular are Irish standard (torch, lorry, crisps, chipper (note, not chippy)). It shouldn't present any problems in context for readers outside the UK/Ireland.
Four and a half stars. Entertaining and well written. A diverting read for fans of the genre.
Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes.
March 30, 2022
This is book 8 of one of my favorite series. Here, Siobhan and Macdara are finally getting married...but the service is interrupted by the appearance of Siobhan's brother James, with the news that a body has been discovered on a farm property that Macdara has bought as a surprise wedding present for Siobhan. The body is that of a man who supposedly left his fiancee at the altar exactly 50 years earlier. Before the body can be removed from the slurry pit it was found in, another body is found on top of the first. Are they murders or accidents? If murders, are they related? Siobhan and Macdara want to solve this case before rescheduling their wedding. (Who wants to start married life with a couple of bodies on their property?)
Most of the story is centered on the mystery, but there is still interaction with the rest of the O'Sullivan clan. The family provides a lot of the humor and warmth of this series, so I am always happy to revisit them with each book.
Thank you to Kensington press for providing me with an ARC for review.
Most of the story is centered on the mystery, but there is still interaction with the rest of the O'Sullivan clan. The family provides a lot of the humor and warmth of this series, so I am always happy to revisit them with each book.
Thank you to Kensington press for providing me with an ARC for review.
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