Cozy Mystery Review: Murder in an Irish Churchyard by Carlene O'Connor

   

Hello, Fellow Book Worms and Book Dragons,

    Just when I thought I could not love a cozy mystery more, I opened another Irish Village Mystery. This series so far has been delightful with a quirky blend of characters solving mysteries in their village of Kilbane. I loved Murder in an Irish Village and Murder at an Irish Wedding. Thankfully I have a few more to go with this group of characters. 

  Murder in an Irish Churchyard is written by Carlene O'Connor and is published by Kensington Books. In this third novel in her Irish Village mystery series, we are introduced to Garda Siobhan O'Sullivan. It has been two years since she decided to join law enforcement. Now she is ready for her first day on the job. A graduate at the top of her class, Siobhan has a lot to prove. But she is bothered by the departure of her love, Macdara, who was less than happy with her decision to become a Gard. 

  Then one morning a body is found in the old churchyard cemetery. The corpse lies cold on the ground with a finger pointing to an old tombstone. Siobhan is the first on the scene but is not given access to the case per her superior's request. Her "green" status on the force leaves her on the outside looking in. But the town of Kilbane knows that when a mystery arises, Siobhan O'Sullivan is the one that will get to the bottom of the case. A cryptic message. A mysterious old woman is seen fleeing from the cemetery. And the missing socks of old Mr. Dunne are enough to keep Siobhan busy. But will she be the next body left on the cold ground of the churchyard cemetery?

  Murder in an Irish Churchyard was a delightful story that kept me intrigued and smiling ear-to-ear. The story was well thought out and the twists kept coming. The eccentric citizens of Kilbane did not disappoint, especially Siobhan's siblings, who are always eager to help with a case. O'Connor also added an often hysterical and dysfunctional family to the mix, revealing their connection to the deceased. The chemistry between Macdara and Siobhan was heartwarming and kept the fires of romance alive as the discovery of the murderer was revealed. 

  Once again Caroline Lennon adds her excellent narration to the series' latest adventure. Having read books one and two, it was nice to hear her return to read the latest. She also has managed to mature the younger O'Sullivans quite well. And her hilarious reading of old man Dunne was so funny I laughed out loud several times. Another excellent presentation.

  Murder in an Irish Churchyard was the best of the series so far. I loved every page of this four-star cozy mystery. It is a wonderful book to curl up with and enjoy your time in. Stay happy and healthy, my friends.

 

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