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Irish Village Mystery #10
Murder at an Irish Chipper
A belated honeymoon turns into a busman’s holiday when gardas Siobhán and Macdara Flannery find themselves investigating a dead body found in a fish and chips shop . . .
Siobhán’s brother Eoin’s new family restaurant, The O’Sullivan Six, is so close to opening—but waiting on the necessary permits plus the heat of July in the village of Kilbane in County Cork is driving everyone a bit mad. Macdara Flannery comes to the rescue with a plan—take a holiday by the sea and stuff themselves with fish and chips to support the struggling business of the aptly named Mrs. Chipper.
But when they arrive, a crowd is gathered in front of the closed shop: a local fisherman with a fresh cod delivery, a food critic, Mrs. Chipper’s ex-husband who’s opening a competing fish and chips shop directly across the street, and a repairman to fix the vent for the deep fryer. With Siobhán and Macdara as witnesses, a local handyman gets the locked door open, only to find the proprietor lying dead and covered in flour at the base of a ladder, its rungs coated in slippery fat. Clearly this was not an accidental tragedy . . .
Even as the local garda take over the murder investigation, Siobhán and Macdara can’t help themselves from placing their long-delayed honeymoon on hold—at least until they can help apprehend an elusive killer.
Siobhán’s brother Eoin’s new family restaurant, The O’Sullivan Six, is so close to opening—but waiting on the necessary permits plus the heat of July in the village of Kilbane in County Cork is driving everyone a bit mad. Macdara Flannery comes to the rescue with a plan—take a holiday by the sea and stuff themselves with fish and chips to support the struggling business of the aptly named Mrs. Chipper.
But when they arrive, a crowd is gathered in front of the closed shop: a local fisherman with a fresh cod delivery, a food critic, Mrs. Chipper’s ex-husband who’s opening a competing fish and chips shop directly across the street, and a repairman to fix the vent for the deep fryer. With Siobhán and Macdara as witnesses, a local handyman gets the locked door open, only to find the proprietor lying dead and covered in flour at the base of a ladder, its rungs coated in slippery fat. Clearly this was not an accidental tragedy . . .
Even as the local garda take over the murder investigation, Siobhán and Macdara can’t help themselves from placing their long-delayed honeymoon on hold—at least until they can help apprehend an elusive killer.
304 pages, Hardcover
Published February 20, 2024
396 people are currently reading
6,736 people want to read
About the author
Carlene O'Connor
27books2,382followersCarlene O’Connor is the USA Today Bestselling author of The Irish Village Mystery Series, (8 books so far), The Home to Ireland Series (2-books), and the upcoming (2022) County Kerry Mystery series. She comes from a long line of Irish storytellers. Her great-grandmother emigrated from Ireland to America and the stories have been flowing ever since. 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.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 265 reviews
February 20, 2024
EXCERPT: He was late. You absolutely could not count on anyone these days, especially husbands and repairmen. Forty years of marriage and Corman leaves her with the same dingy chipper, only to open a brand-new one across the street. Brand New! The nerve.
ABOUT 'MURDER AT AN IRISH CHIPPER': Siobhán’s brother Eoin’s new family restaurant, The O’Sullivan Six, is so close to opening—but waiting on the necessary permits plus the heat of July in the village of Kilbane in County Cork is driving everyone a bit mad. Macdara Flannery comes to the rescue with a plan—take a holiday by the sea and stuff themselves with fish and chips to support the struggling business of the aptly named Mrs. Chipper.
But when they arrive, a crowd is gathered in front of the closed chipper - a local fisherman with a fresh cod delivery, a food critic, Mrs. Chipper’s ex-husband who’s opening a competing fish and chips shop directly across the street, and a repairman to fix the vent for the deep fryer. With Siobhán and Macdara as witnesses, a local handyman gets the locked door open, only to find the proprietor lying dead and covered in flour at the base of a ladder, its rungs coated in slippery fat. Clearly this was not an accidental tragedy . . .
Even as the local garda take over the murder investigation, Siobhán and Macdara can’t help themselves from placing their long-delayed honeymoon on hold—at least until they can help apprehend an elusive killer.
MY THOUGHTS: Only Siobhan O'Sullivan would take her whole family on honeymoon with her! The seaside town of Lahinch has no idea what is in store for it, starting, of course, with a murder. A locked room (or should that be chipper?) murder.
Vera (Mrs Chips) could be the subject of a country and western ballad except for the fact that she doesn't have a truck or a trusty dog. But her husband has done her wrong with her now ex-best friend and feelings are running deep in the town about how she has been treated. But wait! It's Vera who has been murdered, not her cheating husband or ex-best friend. Why?
There's a lot of strange and puzzling situations in this episode of the Irish Village Mysteries and I was kept wondering until the very last page. There is a serious attempt on Siobhan's life, a will changed at the last moment, the O'Sullivan family dog goes missing, and some decidedly shady goings on in Lahinch.
By the end of the book, there's a change in circumstance for some members of the family who won't be going home with the rest of the O'Sullivan-Flannery clan, and I can't help but wonder what this is going to mean for future books.
Entertaining and amusing, as always.
⭐⭐⭐⭐.2
#MurderatanIrishChipper #NetGalley
THE AUTHOR: An admitted wanderer, Carlene spends as much time in Ireland as possible while currently residing in California and Chicago.
DISCLOSURE: Thank you to Kensington Books, Kensington cosies, via NetGalley for providing a digital ARC of Murder at an Irish Chipper by Carlene O'Connor for review. All opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own personal opinions.
ABOUT 'MURDER AT AN IRISH CHIPPER': Siobhán’s brother Eoin’s new family restaurant, The O’Sullivan Six, is so close to opening—but waiting on the necessary permits plus the heat of July in the village of Kilbane in County Cork is driving everyone a bit mad. Macdara Flannery comes to the rescue with a plan—take a holiday by the sea and stuff themselves with fish and chips to support the struggling business of the aptly named Mrs. Chipper.
But when they arrive, a crowd is gathered in front of the closed chipper - a local fisherman with a fresh cod delivery, a food critic, Mrs. Chipper’s ex-husband who’s opening a competing fish and chips shop directly across the street, and a repairman to fix the vent for the deep fryer. With Siobhán and Macdara as witnesses, a local handyman gets the locked door open, only to find the proprietor lying dead and covered in flour at the base of a ladder, its rungs coated in slippery fat. Clearly this was not an accidental tragedy . . .
Even as the local garda take over the murder investigation, Siobhán and Macdara can’t help themselves from placing their long-delayed honeymoon on hold—at least until they can help apprehend an elusive killer.
MY THOUGHTS: Only Siobhan O'Sullivan would take her whole family on honeymoon with her! The seaside town of Lahinch has no idea what is in store for it, starting, of course, with a murder. A locked room (or should that be chipper?) murder.
Vera (Mrs Chips) could be the subject of a country and western ballad except for the fact that she doesn't have a truck or a trusty dog. But her husband has done her wrong with her now ex-best friend and feelings are running deep in the town about how she has been treated. But wait! It's Vera who has been murdered, not her cheating husband or ex-best friend. Why?
There's a lot of strange and puzzling situations in this episode of the Irish Village Mysteries and I was kept wondering until the very last page. There is a serious attempt on Siobhan's life, a will changed at the last moment, the O'Sullivan family dog goes missing, and some decidedly shady goings on in Lahinch.
By the end of the book, there's a change in circumstance for some members of the family who won't be going home with the rest of the O'Sullivan-Flannery clan, and I can't help but wonder what this is going to mean for future books.
Entertaining and amusing, as always.
⭐⭐⭐⭐.2
#MurderatanIrishChipper #NetGalley
THE AUTHOR: An admitted wanderer, Carlene spends as much time in Ireland as possible while currently residing in California and Chicago.
DISCLOSURE: Thank you to Kensington Books, Kensington cosies, via NetGalley for providing a digital ARC of Murder at an Irish Chipper by Carlene O'Connor for review. All opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own personal opinions.
November 3, 2023
Murder at an Irish Chipper is the 10th book in An Irish Viillage Mysteries series. I have read all from the beginning. Siobhan O'Sullivan is the main character and a Garda. Her husband, Macdara Flannery is a detective sargeant. They live in the town of Kilbane. Macdara and Siobhan decide to go to the town of Lahinch, a resort town for their honeymoon vacation. They decide to take all of her brother's and sister's with them. They want to check out Mrs. Chip's shop that is in financial trouble. Upon arriving they see a long line outside the shop as it is not open. After much discussion they decide to call a locksmith to come and open the shop as they are concerned. John Healy, the local handyman, locksmith and owner of Healy's Seaside Inn arrives and opens the shop. They are all staying at the Inn, When Siobhan and Macdara go in they find Mrs. Chips (Vera Cowley) on the floor dead on the floor with flour all over her and a message on her head saying "fried" along with a bottle of vinegar next to her head. She has been in a fight with her ex, Corman Cowley, who opened a Mr. Chips shop across the street from hers. Tara Fllaherty, who use to be her best friend, works for him as well as in a relationship with him. Detective Sargeant Healy is in charge of the investigation. He is John Healy's grandson, and John is later poisoned.
This is where the story takes off and there is too much to relate. I will leave it to the reader to enjoy and figure out who killed Vera and John. The story takes all kinds of twists and turns with a long list of who might be the murderer. to the exciting and unexpected ending.
Thank you NetGalley and Kensington Publishing Corp. for this ARC.
This is where the story takes off and there is too much to relate. I will leave it to the reader to enjoy and figure out who killed Vera and John. The story takes all kinds of twists and turns with a long list of who might be the murderer. to the exciting and unexpected ending.
Thank you NetGalley and Kensington Publishing Corp. for this ARC.
February 21, 2024
This is book 10 in the Irish Village Mystery series, and while I haven’t read them all I have read and enjoyed several. I think this author has a great voice and writes good mysteries. I love the Irish setting and this book followed that with a great seaside “vacation.� Our main protagonist, Siobhan, has no skill with how to vacation so when she, her husband, and the rest of her family take a belated “honeymoon� to taste some fish and chips they had heard about she tries. But of course on the first day she stumbles into a murder and can’t help but offer her assistance. Being asked to back off doesn’t deter her from asking questions and learning more about this small town and murder, but when a second murder happens that compromises the lead investigator she and her husband are officially on the case. The mystery was good and the red herrings were believable. Definitely a fun working holiday to Ireland that I recommend whether you’ve read the whole series or as a standalone.
February 12, 2024
Every time a new book in this series comes out, I read it and think this is the best book in the series....then I read the next book and once again that thought pops into my head when I finish the book. Well, here we are once again visiting with Garda Siobahn O'Sullivan and her husband, Macdara Flannery, have taken Siobahn's siblings with them on a vacation to the coast only to get caught up in a local murder that needs solved and fast because things aren't adding up and a few of the siblings are getting tangled in the net surrounding this murder. The characters are absolutely lovable and relatable making you want to dive headfirst into the book the second you can get your hands on it! The plot is intricately woven and leads you to the right conclusion although it does take you through a few twists and turns where you believe you are following a route to a different suspect. So yes, once again, I have concluded a book in this series thinking that this one is the best yet, but now I am anxiously awaiting the next book to see if the author can keep pulling that same thought out of my head! Do you like a good cozy mystery? Then you'll love this book or rather this series! You absolutely do need to start with the first book in the series as each book builds the personalities of the characters and you watch them all grow up and become young adults as their oldest sister becomes a garda, Irish police officer, and falls in love with Detective Sargent Flannery while solving a multitude of mysteries. You are in for hours of entertainment that will have you devouring each book and reaching for the next. Just don't read too fast or you'll end up where I am, anxiously awaiting the author to write a new book in the series!
February 22, 2024
This is my favorite in the series so far. I said this about the last one but it has since been replaced. I have really enjoyed all the books in this series as there is a lot of growth in the characters as the series goes on. It’s not just Siobhan and Macdara, but her siblings as well, continue to grow and have lives of their own. The mystery in this one was very well-paced and I enjoyed following along as Siobhan investigated while being on vacation. The ending was surprising and I can’t wait to see how this series evolves in the next one.
I received a copy from #NetGalley and #KensingtonBooks for an honest review.
I received a copy from #NetGalley and #KensingtonBooks for an honest review.
August 13, 2024
A good Irish mystery, did not see it coming!
March 2, 2024
Siobhan is on vacation with her new husband and has also brought along all of her siblings, to a small, resort town. They're planning to relax, sit in the sun, and eat. But a woman is found dead, the proprietor of the very restaurant where they had planned to eat. Siobhan can't help herself and has to jump into the investigation. Everyone gives her a hard time because she apparently does not know how to relax. But it's lucky she's on the case because a killer is on the loose and small town residents don't like to reveal their many secrets. I love this series and this one was fantastic, incorporating the entire family in an entertaining mystery.
October 31, 2023
Murder at an Irish Chipper is the tenth book in the Irish Village mystery series. Garda's Siobhan and Macdara Flannery take a belated honeymoon by the Sea, accompanied by all of Siobhan's younger siblings, of course. Before they even get unpacked, they stumble upon a murder at the local fish and chips place and their vacation soon turns into a double murder investigation. I love the Irish setting and the loving family dynamics in this series. This was a fast paced mystery with plenty of twists and turns to keep you guessing. I liked how Siobhan and Macdara rounded up all the suspects at the end to suss out a killer. I admit I was surprised by who the murderer turned out to be. I love this series and can't wait to read the next book in this delightful series.
November 28, 2023
Murder at an Irish Chipper is book 10 of the Irish Village Mystery Series.
In this installment, Siobhán’s brother Eoin’s new family restaurant, The O’Sullivan Six, is so close to opening—but waiting on the necessary permits plus the heat of July in the village of Kilbane in County Cork is driving everyone a bit mad.
Macdara Flannery comes to the rescue with a plan—take a holiday by the sea and stuff themselves with fish and chips to support the struggling business of the aptly named Mrs. Chipper.
Their plans get interrupted when a dead body is discovered. Now, with a honeymoon on hold, Siobhán’s and Macdara are hot on the trail of a killer.
In this installment, Siobhán’s brother Eoin’s new family restaurant, The O’Sullivan Six, is so close to opening—but waiting on the necessary permits plus the heat of July in the village of Kilbane in County Cork is driving everyone a bit mad.
Macdara Flannery comes to the rescue with a plan—take a holiday by the sea and stuff themselves with fish and chips to support the struggling business of the aptly named Mrs. Chipper.
Their plans get interrupted when a dead body is discovered. Now, with a honeymoon on hold, Siobhán’s and Macdara are hot on the trail of a killer.
January 6, 2024
#MurderatanIrishChipper #NetGalley is the newest book in this series.
While Siobhan and her family are on vacation, A local resident is found dead, and she can't help but to ask questions, opening up a huge can of worms.
The suspect list is long and before long, she and her husband begin putting the pieces together to find out who the killer is.
I was really surprised at the reveal, and the story kept me guessing until the end.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for selecting me to read an advanced copy of the book.
While Siobhan and her family are on vacation, A local resident is found dead, and she can't help but to ask questions, opening up a huge can of worms.
The suspect list is long and before long, she and her husband begin putting the pieces together to find out who the killer is.
I was really surprised at the reveal, and the story kept me guessing until the end.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for selecting me to read an advanced copy of the book.
February 18, 2024
I don't think you can call yourself a cozy mystery lover if your library does not have more than a few titles by Carlene O'Connor. The mysteries keep you guessing whodunit while we get a good look at the shenanigins Siobhan and Macdara find while on their honeymoon. This is book #10 in the Irish Village Mystery series but each book is a complete mystery and can be read as stand alones. The genre may be cozy, but you'll find good old fashioned murder at the heart of each one.
November 20, 2023
“Murder at an Irish Chipper� the tenth book in Carlene O'Connor’s Irish Village cozy mystery series, finds gardas Siobhán and Macdara Flannery on a belated honeymoon � with her brothers and sisters in tow. Although they are supposed to be relaxing, when a body is found at a fish and chips store, Siobhan can’t help getting involved in solving the mystery. But she needs to be careful or she’ll place herself and her family in very real danger.
“Murder at an Irish Chipper� is a nicely done cozy mystery. I love this series and Macdara, Siobhan, and her family � all have grown as characters throughout the course of the series. I’m always a bit nervous about reading books that take characters away from their normal setting but I was pulled into the story from the very beginning. The mystery is well done � almost Agatha Christie-like � with plenty of suspects. Truthfully, I did figure out early on who the killer was but not why the murder was committed and something happened halfway through the book that took me off-guard and had me questioning my guess as to who the killer was. Even with my figuring out who the killer was, I still enjoyed this book and was sad when my visit with Siobhan and family ended.
I received a copy of this book from NetGalley.
“Murder at an Irish Chipper� is a nicely done cozy mystery. I love this series and Macdara, Siobhan, and her family � all have grown as characters throughout the course of the series. I’m always a bit nervous about reading books that take characters away from their normal setting but I was pulled into the story from the very beginning. The mystery is well done � almost Agatha Christie-like � with plenty of suspects. Truthfully, I did figure out early on who the killer was but not why the murder was committed and something happened halfway through the book that took me off-guard and had me questioning my guess as to who the killer was. Even with my figuring out who the killer was, I still enjoyed this book and was sad when my visit with Siobhan and family ended.
I received a copy of this book from NetGalley.
September 12, 2024
3.5 stars.
A fun read of a comfortable book.
A fun read of a comfortable book.
March 25, 2024
I have been such a fan of this series from the beginning. Siobhan was fresh and interesting as a FMC and I loved her brood of siblings. When Macdara became part of the group, I welcomed him too. Unfortunately, it seems to be (for me) that it's the addition of Macdara that has worn me thin with Siobhan.
This is the tenth installment in the Irish Village Mystery series, and Siobhan hasn't really grown or changed. She still can't keep her gob shut, even when her words endanger both the case she's working and the well-being of those she loves. You'd think after all these years she could control herself a little more and not still run off at the mouth like a teenager.
In all these years, Macdara also hasn't gotten much smarter than when we first met him. He's the Detective Sergeant, but he still needs Siobhan to figure everything out for him--and explain it to him in minute detail. This aspect of the stories has bugged me for a while, and in this book it might have tipped me over the edge. I'm not sure I'll be up for more of this series.
That makes me sad because I still care about all the characters. I also really enjoyed the growth we saw in Siobhan's sibs in this book. I'm curious to see where the next chapter takes them, even if I'm caring less and less about Siobhan and Macdara. I've bought all these books, but when the next one comes out, I may see if the library has it and borrow it instead.
The mystery in this story wasn't super interesting. I think I missed Kilbane and the assorted cast of the town's characters. I didn't care about the victims this time or about the murderer(s).
If you haven't read any of this series, please don't start with this one. Go back to the beginning and spend time getting to know the O'Sullivan Six. I'm thinking of reacquainting myself with them.
One note on Caroline Lennon's narration: I absolutely love her Irish accent. It's musical and authentic. BUT ... she does pause after almost every sentence and in places where there just shouldn't be pauses. It's distracting, and I'm noticing it more and more as I keep listening to her (both in this series and other books as well). I wish someone would direct her not to do that because she has such a great voice.
This is the tenth installment in the Irish Village Mystery series, and Siobhan hasn't really grown or changed. She still can't keep her gob shut, even when her words endanger both the case she's working and the well-being of those she loves. You'd think after all these years she could control herself a little more and not still run off at the mouth like a teenager.
In all these years, Macdara also hasn't gotten much smarter than when we first met him. He's the Detective Sergeant, but he still needs Siobhan to figure everything out for him--and explain it to him in minute detail. This aspect of the stories has bugged me for a while, and in this book it might have tipped me over the edge. I'm not sure I'll be up for more of this series.
That makes me sad because I still care about all the characters. I also really enjoyed the growth we saw in Siobhan's sibs in this book. I'm curious to see where the next chapter takes them, even if I'm caring less and less about Siobhan and Macdara. I've bought all these books, but when the next one comes out, I may see if the library has it and borrow it instead.
The mystery in this story wasn't super interesting. I think I missed Kilbane and the assorted cast of the town's characters. I didn't care about the victims this time or about the murderer(s).
If you haven't read any of this series, please don't start with this one. Go back to the beginning and spend time getting to know the O'Sullivan Six. I'm thinking of reacquainting myself with them.
One note on Caroline Lennon's narration: I absolutely love her Irish accent. It's musical and authentic. BUT ... she does pause after almost every sentence and in places where there just shouldn't be pauses. It's distracting, and I'm noticing it more and more as I keep listening to her (both in this series and other books as well). I wish someone would direct her not to do that because she has such a great voice.
January 8, 2024
I enjoyed most of this book. I found that the first past of the book is a bit annoying as everyone kept telling Siobhan that she was on holiday & shouldn’t be investigating the murder but after she & her husband were put in charge the story really starts moving forward. It gets more interesting & we get to hear all facets of the investigation. There’s definitely some interesting twists. After some of the facts came out I did definitely suspect who the killer is and got it right. It’ll be interesting to see how the family does with hem being in different places. #MurderatanIrishChipper #NetGalley
October 5, 2023
Only Siobhan and Macdara would go on their honeymoon with the entire O’Sullivan crew…and only Shiobhan would find herself immersed in solving a murder on the same trip. While Macdara picked the destination after reading an article about a chipper, Siobahn’s favorite, the sea air will do them all good for a respite from life in Kilbane.
When the family arrives in town, they head to the chipper for lunch, only to find a closed chipper and a long line of people waiting outside. It turns out that Shioban and Macdara have found a body in the chipper…and Shiobahn just can’t let it go. Once a guard, always a guard. While trying to enjoy some family time, the family becomes immersed in a second death and the duo are brought into the case officially. Can they solve the case before the leave, whether by their choice or they killer’s?
I adore this series. I love that the Sullivan’s are so tight knit and that Siobhan stepped up and became their mother of the brood when she herself was young and orphaned. And even more so that Macdara marries into the family as it is. The mystery in each book is so well thought out and planned that I am often still guessing when the final clue is revealed. A trip to Ireland is always a treat with the O’Sullivan-Flannery gang.
When the family arrives in town, they head to the chipper for lunch, only to find a closed chipper and a long line of people waiting outside. It turns out that Shioban and Macdara have found a body in the chipper…and Shiobahn just can’t let it go. Once a guard, always a guard. While trying to enjoy some family time, the family becomes immersed in a second death and the duo are brought into the case officially. Can they solve the case before the leave, whether by their choice or they killer’s?
I adore this series. I love that the Sullivan’s are so tight knit and that Siobhan stepped up and became their mother of the brood when she herself was young and orphaned. And even more so that Macdara marries into the family as it is. The mystery in each book is so well thought out and planned that I am often still guessing when the final clue is revealed. A trip to Ireland is always a treat with the O’Sullivan-Flannery gang.
June 24, 2024
I generally enjoy this series but this book has me questioning if I’ll read any future books.
Siobahn brings all of her siblings on her honeymoon? Absolutely not. This was the first thing that bothered me and it got worse from there.
The final nail in the coffin is the timeline. At the end of Chapter 27, Kevin Casey states that John Healy changed the beneficiary of his will to Grainne O’Sullivan the day before Vera Crowley was murdered. The O’Sullivans didn’t arrive until the day of Vera’s murder.
How would John and Liam know Grainne’s name? Were all the names for the entire party listed at the time of booking the inn? How did he know Grainne would be old enough to date, or that she wasn’t married into the O’Sullivan name? He would have to know these things prior to meeting them in order to change his will prior to their arriving for it to be plausible.
This whole book is a mess and multiple times I had to put it down and walk away. I am a fan of cutesy easy-to-read cozy mysteries, and I understand that I must limit my expectations and suspend reality for them, but this one was absolutely off the walls bonkers.
Siobahn brings all of her siblings on her honeymoon? Absolutely not. This was the first thing that bothered me and it got worse from there.
The final nail in the coffin is the timeline. At the end of Chapter 27, Kevin Casey states that John Healy changed the beneficiary of his will to Grainne O’Sullivan the day before Vera Crowley was murdered. The O’Sullivans didn’t arrive until the day of Vera’s murder.
How would John and Liam know Grainne’s name? Were all the names for the entire party listed at the time of booking the inn? How did he know Grainne would be old enough to date, or that she wasn’t married into the O’Sullivan name? He would have to know these things prior to meeting them in order to change his will prior to their arriving for it to be plausible.
This whole book is a mess and multiple times I had to put it down and walk away. I am a fan of cutesy easy-to-read cozy mysteries, and I understand that I must limit my expectations and suspend reality for them, but this one was absolutely off the walls bonkers.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 5, 2024
I received this book as one of my giveaway prizes. I'm glad I didn't have to waste my money buying it!
I didn't find the characters at all likable, nor in many instances/situations did I find their actions realistic.
There were so many errors with content, continuity, consistency that it marred any enjoyment of the story. Not sure if this was the author's fault or the editor's mistakes, but there were too many to forgive
With some tweaking, this could be a cute murder/mystery, but as it stands now, it is NOT
I didn't find the characters at all likable, nor in many instances/situations did I find their actions realistic.
There were so many errors with content, continuity, consistency that it marred any enjoyment of the story. Not sure if this was the author's fault or the editor's mistakes, but there were too many to forgive
With some tweaking, this could be a cute murder/mystery, but as it stands now, it is NOT
April 20, 2024
The first couple of chapters are slow and not fun, but it picks up once they actually discover the body. However, it quickly drags again. The plot is bogged down with way too many underdeveloped side characters, suspects, and unrelated adventure subplots. It is trite and repetitive and badly needed an editor.
What is the point of Siobhan's constantly blurting privileged information about the case and clumsily questioning suspects, even going so far as to openly write down the things one of the suspect tells her on a casual walk? She's been a working garda for several years. It is not realistic that she'd be so unprofessional at this stage in her career. The best parts of the book are when Siobhan is actually being a competent detective. And we're well along in the series; it's justified at this stage in her character development. Especially since she's a professional, not an amateur! This is her actual job!
Macdara doesn't add anything to the story, and the romantic passages are soppy, cliché, and uninteresting. It feels redundant to have two main detectives. This works in a traditional cozy because the protagonist is an amateur detective, whereas the police officer is the professional. You have that juxtaposition of "main character chats casually with suspects and sometimes does questionably legal things" and "police officer gathers evidence and inspects the crime scene." Here, both of the detectives are garda, and there's nothing to distinguish Siobhan's abilities from Macdara, other than the fact that Siobhan is apparently a giant blabbermouth.
The grumpy character, McGee, has a point. Siobhan can't have it both ways: she can't be "just having a chat" and trying to get information out of a suspect. I think this is a misstep on the author's part and goes back to the fact that Siobhan is written as an amateur detective while actually being part of the police. The plot of "ohhhh noooo, Siobhan's investigating again" is tiresome and too drawn-out. Siobhan judges Sheila, a suspect, for being angry and defensive in ripping up Siobhan's notes, but Sheila has a point: "The words out of me mouth are private property too." She points out that she lives in a small community and would be shunned if they found out she was talking about them. Again, Siobhan's professional-but-not detective status just doesn't work here, and I'm not inclined to take her side about anything. This happens several times throughout the book: Siobhan inappropriately questions a suspect and then gets upset and defensive when they justifiably get angry and call her on it. I CHEERED when their host kicked them out of the inn.
And of courrrrrrse Siobhan has to have unruly auburn hair, because she is a Clumsy Quirky Cozy Mystery Protagonist. I am so sick of lazy authors choosing "messy red hair" to denote that their protagonist is Sooooo Unique. Siobhan is an interesting character on her own. She doesn't need all the lazy tropes that characterize cozy mystery protagonists.
The "Irish-isms" don't ring quite true, although I can't say for sure. "I've been fishing since I was a colleen" doesn't sound like something an Irish person would say.
I hate to say it, but the siblings are *annoying.* The "O'Sullivan Six" moniker underscores the fact that the sibling set, aside from Siobhan, is functionally one character. It feels self-indulgent on the part of the author to have so many sibling characters for Siobhan. They don't add anything to the mystery except filler, and it's not amusing to read about their antics and bickering. It's not necessary to have paragraphs dedicated to exactly which siblings got what foods when going out to eat. They really should all have been left at home. They often act very stereotypically: flirty, annoying, or immature, as the plot requires. One or two is fine, but five bogs down the story. And they're all horny for their love interests. I know it's a way to reinforce the "Siobhan is their big sister and wants to look out for her stupid younger siblings despite them all growing up", but there's way too much focus on it. Someone says something flirtatious. Siobhan judges them or the object of their affections. Rinse and repeat. They are constantly talking about who's in love with whom, and Siobhan is constantly monologuing about how silly they're being and how unsuitable the love interest is. There's nothing shameful about age-appropriate romance.
I don't remember James' alcoholism being a plot point in previous installments? I could be wrong, but it would have been nice to explore that. The "oh, no, he's in love with a suspect" subplot is terribly trite. It's not interesting to read, and it's lazy characterization.
We really have to push the "butch lesbian" stereotype? "Siobhan wondered about Ann's sexual orientation, not because she was athletic or uninterested in clothes, makeup, and boys." Great, so why even bring it up? You list a perfectly logical reason for why she should be interested in women, because she "lights up" when she talks about certain girls. That's all you need.
There are WAY too many suspects. This would be a good series, but the author seriously needs to pare down her character count and focus on developing them more fully. Or at least have a "cast of characters" in the beginning of the book.
I despise the "needling" type of friendship. "Oh, you don't like exercising at five in the morning? I'll make it 4:30!" No thanks. If I were Siobhan I wouldn't have gone. But of course, it's a cozy mystery, so it's illegal for our heroine to have any sort of backbone. Describing exercise as "tortuous" is outdated. Find something that works for you and makes you happy. Exercise is not a punishment. Just another one of those tired, tired cozy mystery tropes: evil "unhealthy" food and evil "torture" exercise. Please make it go away. The " evil tasty beef drippings vs heart-healthy, less-tasty vegetable oil" is inaccurate and boring. Properly rendered non-hydrogenated animal fat is not the devil that everyone in this book is making it out to be.
Honestly, I only made it halfway through this book before I tapped out. The scene of Siobhan getting them all kicked out of the inn was so incredibly satisfying, and I wanted to end the mystery on a good note. I might go back and read the end to find out who did it, but I might run into some mediocre drawn-out TSTL final showdown, so I think I'll pass for now.
What is the point of Siobhan's constantly blurting privileged information about the case and clumsily questioning suspects, even going so far as to openly write down the things one of the suspect tells her on a casual walk? She's been a working garda for several years. It is not realistic that she'd be so unprofessional at this stage in her career. The best parts of the book are when Siobhan is actually being a competent detective. And we're well along in the series; it's justified at this stage in her character development. Especially since she's a professional, not an amateur! This is her actual job!
Macdara doesn't add anything to the story, and the romantic passages are soppy, cliché, and uninteresting. It feels redundant to have two main detectives. This works in a traditional cozy because the protagonist is an amateur detective, whereas the police officer is the professional. You have that juxtaposition of "main character chats casually with suspects and sometimes does questionably legal things" and "police officer gathers evidence and inspects the crime scene." Here, both of the detectives are garda, and there's nothing to distinguish Siobhan's abilities from Macdara, other than the fact that Siobhan is apparently a giant blabbermouth.
The grumpy character, McGee, has a point. Siobhan can't have it both ways: she can't be "just having a chat" and trying to get information out of a suspect. I think this is a misstep on the author's part and goes back to the fact that Siobhan is written as an amateur detective while actually being part of the police. The plot of "ohhhh noooo, Siobhan's investigating again" is tiresome and too drawn-out. Siobhan judges Sheila, a suspect, for being angry and defensive in ripping up Siobhan's notes, but Sheila has a point: "The words out of me mouth are private property too." She points out that she lives in a small community and would be shunned if they found out she was talking about them. Again, Siobhan's professional-but-not detective status just doesn't work here, and I'm not inclined to take her side about anything. This happens several times throughout the book: Siobhan inappropriately questions a suspect and then gets upset and defensive when they justifiably get angry and call her on it. I CHEERED when their host kicked them out of the inn.
And of courrrrrrse Siobhan has to have unruly auburn hair, because she is a Clumsy Quirky Cozy Mystery Protagonist. I am so sick of lazy authors choosing "messy red hair" to denote that their protagonist is Sooooo Unique. Siobhan is an interesting character on her own. She doesn't need all the lazy tropes that characterize cozy mystery protagonists.
The "Irish-isms" don't ring quite true, although I can't say for sure. "I've been fishing since I was a colleen" doesn't sound like something an Irish person would say.
I hate to say it, but the siblings are *annoying.* The "O'Sullivan Six" moniker underscores the fact that the sibling set, aside from Siobhan, is functionally one character. It feels self-indulgent on the part of the author to have so many sibling characters for Siobhan. They don't add anything to the mystery except filler, and it's not amusing to read about their antics and bickering. It's not necessary to have paragraphs dedicated to exactly which siblings got what foods when going out to eat. They really should all have been left at home. They often act very stereotypically: flirty, annoying, or immature, as the plot requires. One or two is fine, but five bogs down the story. And they're all horny for their love interests. I know it's a way to reinforce the "Siobhan is their big sister and wants to look out for her stupid younger siblings despite them all growing up", but there's way too much focus on it. Someone says something flirtatious. Siobhan judges them or the object of their affections. Rinse and repeat. They are constantly talking about who's in love with whom, and Siobhan is constantly monologuing about how silly they're being and how unsuitable the love interest is. There's nothing shameful about age-appropriate romance.
I don't remember James' alcoholism being a plot point in previous installments? I could be wrong, but it would have been nice to explore that. The "oh, no, he's in love with a suspect" subplot is terribly trite. It's not interesting to read, and it's lazy characterization.
We really have to push the "butch lesbian" stereotype? "Siobhan wondered about Ann's sexual orientation, not because she was athletic or uninterested in clothes, makeup, and boys." Great, so why even bring it up? You list a perfectly logical reason for why she should be interested in women, because she "lights up" when she talks about certain girls. That's all you need.
There are WAY too many suspects. This would be a good series, but the author seriously needs to pare down her character count and focus on developing them more fully. Or at least have a "cast of characters" in the beginning of the book.
I despise the "needling" type of friendship. "Oh, you don't like exercising at five in the morning? I'll make it 4:30!" No thanks. If I were Siobhan I wouldn't have gone. But of course, it's a cozy mystery, so it's illegal for our heroine to have any sort of backbone. Describing exercise as "tortuous" is outdated. Find something that works for you and makes you happy. Exercise is not a punishment. Just another one of those tired, tired cozy mystery tropes: evil "unhealthy" food and evil "torture" exercise. Please make it go away. The " evil tasty beef drippings vs heart-healthy, less-tasty vegetable oil" is inaccurate and boring. Properly rendered non-hydrogenated animal fat is not the devil that everyone in this book is making it out to be.
Honestly, I only made it halfway through this book before I tapped out. The scene of Siobhan getting them all kicked out of the inn was so incredibly satisfying, and I wanted to end the mystery on a good note. I might go back and read the end to find out who did it, but I might run into some mediocre drawn-out TSTL final showdown, so I think I'll pass for now.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 22, 2025
The MC goes on vacation with her family and stumbles upon a murder. She can't stay away from the investigation causing some interesting twists and turns. An excellent murder mystery, it keeps a reader guessing right up until the end. I've enjoyed the series, up to this point, and I'm looking forward to a future book along this story line.
March 9, 2024
Who takes their siblings on their honeymoon? Her husband is a saint
April 21, 2024
i randomly found this and it sounded fun and it was fun!! i always rate based on enjoyment level so i give a 3.75, the plot twist was good :)
January 18, 2025
Murder at an Irish Chipper is the 10th book in the Irish Village Mystery series and another interesting story for the armchair sleuth to try and solve. It's July and hot in the Village of Kilbane in County Cork, so Macdara suggests the family go on holiday and it can be his and Siobhan's belated honeymoon by the sea. Shortly after arriving they stumble upon a woman, Mrs. Chipper, dead on the floor of her Fish and Chip shop. Was it an accident or murder? Did her recently divorced husband who opened another Fish and Chip shop across the street have something to do with it? Macdara and Siobhan can't help but get involved even thought the local garda are on the case.
4.5 stars: The O’Sullivan family are close knit and often to things together, that means all going on the honeymoon. They are staying at a local B&B run by an older man who is also the taxi driver and local handyman. His son is the local garda, and he is not happy with Siobhan for questioning him in the murder. When he is poisoned, Siobhan has to turn her suspicions elsewhere. There were several suspects, but proving who was responsible isn't easy. Meanwhile, the family gets involved in the community and we meet many of the secondary characters through them. As Siobhan gets closer to solving the mystery, she knows she is going to hurt someone they have come to care about. I didn't figure this one out until Carlene O'Connor was ready to reveal it to us. There was not big showdown with this story, but it was tied up nicely and the culprit was one that had been on my radar at one time. If you enjoy a good mystery, cozy and with a family storyline, then pick this one up, or any in this series. Caroline Lennon has been narrating this series and I have enjoyed any that I've listened to. She gives voice to the characters and adds enough expression to bring the story to life.
4.5 stars: The O’Sullivan family are close knit and often to things together, that means all going on the honeymoon. They are staying at a local B&B run by an older man who is also the taxi driver and local handyman. His son is the local garda, and he is not happy with Siobhan for questioning him in the murder. When he is poisoned, Siobhan has to turn her suspicions elsewhere. There were several suspects, but proving who was responsible isn't easy. Meanwhile, the family gets involved in the community and we meet many of the secondary characters through them. As Siobhan gets closer to solving the mystery, she knows she is going to hurt someone they have come to care about. I didn't figure this one out until Carlene O'Connor was ready to reveal it to us. There was not big showdown with this story, but it was tied up nicely and the culprit was one that had been on my radar at one time. If you enjoy a good mystery, cozy and with a family storyline, then pick this one up, or any in this series. Caroline Lennon has been narrating this series and I have enjoyed any that I've listened to. She gives voice to the characters and adds enough expression to bring the story to life.
October 17, 2024
Siobhán O’Sullivan stumbles upon yet another surprise murder that she must solve while she’s on her honeymoon with her husband (who she never spends time with unless they’re working), her five siblings (for some reason?), and her puppy� who is mentioned once in a very confusing, not fully fleshed out side plot. Siobhán takes a really weird angle of believing the local cop can’t solve the murder because he’s too close to the townsfolk, even though that’s the plot of the other 9 book as Siobhan suspects childhood acquaintances of cold-blooded murder. Siobhan hasn’t gotten through a single book without commenting on her good friend’s weight, appearance, and diet and exercise regimen. Siobhan takes an unhealthy interest in her siblings dating life, getting weirdly jealous and upset when ALL FIVE siblings find a love interest on this week-long vacation. Siobhan and her husband take an aggravatingly long time to understand very simple clues but at the same time, Siobhan makes several prophecy-like predictions about the case that she has no basis for, and admits having no reason for thinking so, but she is 100% right on each of them (I guess it’s to move the plot along without having to do the work of figuring it out from clues). Lastly, I guessed who the killer was from the first time they were mentioned. Five stars.
October 13, 2024
Our beloved protagonist, Garda Siobhán O'Sullivan and detective Macdara Flannery, have just started their long overdue honeymoon. Nothing says "romantic seaside getaway" more than bringing the entire O'Sullivan brood with you to the Lahinch seashore in County Clare. The inn is a perfect spot for all of them to call home and the innkeeper - a good old salt.
"
While on a walkabout in Lahinch, Siobhán gets a hankering for chips and there are two chipper facing each other - one which is a bit dog worn and the other, brand spanking new. Opting for the older one with a long queue down the sidewalk, they're curious why the shop's closed at noon when it's supposed to open at 11:00 AM. It isn't long before a body is discovered and Siobhán struggles to remain in "tourist-on-honeymoon" mode. She and Macdara have no jurisdiction here. Yet, when the local detective sergeant is on scene, he is grateful for the assistance. Far be it for Siobhán to withhold assistance. Actually, you couldn't keep her from the case if you tried. So much for the relaxing seaside honeymoon.
This tenth book of the Irish Village Mystery series, is a charming cozy mystery, set in the rich and colorful seaside town of Lahinch. Author Carlene O'Connor has done a lovely job of laying out the seaside village's streets with all the colorful buildings thereof. One can easily imagine the cries of gulls and smell the tangy salty air. The writing flows well; the dialogue is at times amusing yet also endearing; and the characters are well developed - each with their own demons and virtues. The best character of them all is that of Siobhán. She's bright, intelligent, plucky, caring and highly intuitive. Nothing gets past her. There are also a fair number of red herrings planted throughout the story. It's a well spun yarn which all comes to a satisfying conclusion. It's definitely among the better cozies I've read.
Although this tenth book in series can stand on its own, the series is perhaps best enjoyed starting from the beginning as each book builds upon the last. If you enjoy a good cozy mysteries with an Irish lilt, then this is a series which I can easily commend to you.
Publisher: � Kensington Cozies
Publication Date: February 20, 2024
Number of Pages: 304
ISBN-13:� 978-1496744449
"
While on a walkabout in Lahinch, Siobhán gets a hankering for chips and there are two chipper facing each other - one which is a bit dog worn and the other, brand spanking new. Opting for the older one with a long queue down the sidewalk, they're curious why the shop's closed at noon when it's supposed to open at 11:00 AM. It isn't long before a body is discovered and Siobhán struggles to remain in "tourist-on-honeymoon" mode. She and Macdara have no jurisdiction here. Yet, when the local detective sergeant is on scene, he is grateful for the assistance. Far be it for Siobhán to withhold assistance. Actually, you couldn't keep her from the case if you tried. So much for the relaxing seaside honeymoon.
This tenth book of the Irish Village Mystery series, is a charming cozy mystery, set in the rich and colorful seaside town of Lahinch. Author Carlene O'Connor has done a lovely job of laying out the seaside village's streets with all the colorful buildings thereof. One can easily imagine the cries of gulls and smell the tangy salty air. The writing flows well; the dialogue is at times amusing yet also endearing; and the characters are well developed - each with their own demons and virtues. The best character of them all is that of Siobhán. She's bright, intelligent, plucky, caring and highly intuitive. Nothing gets past her. There are also a fair number of red herrings planted throughout the story. It's a well spun yarn which all comes to a satisfying conclusion. It's definitely among the better cozies I've read.
Although this tenth book in series can stand on its own, the series is perhaps best enjoyed starting from the beginning as each book builds upon the last. If you enjoy a good cozy mysteries with an Irish lilt, then this is a series which I can easily commend to you.
Publisher: � Kensington Cozies
Publication Date: February 20, 2024
Number of Pages: 304
ISBN-13:� 978-1496744449
April 19, 2024
4.5 stars. This is book 10 in the series, and I am still enjoying them. The author presents a pleasant picture of Ireland and its citizens that makes me wish I could visit.
These books are about a close family of six siblings whose parents have died, with the oldest sibling, Siobhan, taking care of the others. However, they are growing up and beginning to move away and live their separate lives, so I wonder whether Ms O'Connor will continue the series much longer. Still, I've enjoyed every one of the books and most likely will continue as long as they are written.
These books are about a close family of six siblings whose parents have died, with the oldest sibling, Siobhan, taking care of the others. However, they are growing up and beginning to move away and live their separate lives, so I wonder whether Ms O'Connor will continue the series much longer. Still, I've enjoyed every one of the books and most likely will continue as long as they are written.
March 17, 2024
There are lots of colorful suspects in this vacation under mystery set in Ireland. I love this series, and this one has an intricate plot and plenty of twists but not my favorite one. I thought it started a little slow, spinning wheels but it picked up the pace and ended well. I do love the O'Sullivan family and McBarra.
January 8, 2025
As someone who literally rates most books 4 stars this was honestly really bad.
You are given a hard to miss hint early on on the main culprit and it only gets blatantly more obvious as you go.
The main characters literally have to act dumb for the story to not end at points.
There's literally evidence tampered with at one point and instead of questioning who could possibly have access to do this , they essentially shrug their shoulders and no joke go to bed 🤣🤣
You are given a hard to miss hint early on on the main culprit and it only gets blatantly more obvious as you go.
The main characters literally have to act dumb for the story to not end at points.
There's literally evidence tampered with at one point and instead of questioning who could possibly have access to do this , they essentially shrug their shoulders and no joke go to bed 🤣🤣
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 19, 2024
Another cozy mystery story with the the O'Sullivan Six! I always look forward to reading these stories and seeing what everyone in the family is up to. There were some new colorful characters and a new town too!
April 16, 2024
She approached this book so differently and I really enjoyed it! I figured out the killer about a chapter before they revealed it. I highly enjoyed this book!
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