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Mags Munroe #4
Closer than you think
Mags Munroe is juggling a lot. A Gen Z new Garda recruit who lectures everyone on political correctness, teenage daughters who are determined to fill the house with unruly animals, a mother-in-law that is not improving with age, and a husband with a loud new hobby.
So, when an eccentric old couple move to Ballycarrick, claiming to be a witch and a warlock, she thinks why not? What harm could they do? But their presence is fascinating some and infuriating others, and both sides want her involved.
Her husband’s old girlfriend is back in town, and the rumour mill starts turning, and relationships Mags has relied on all her life seem suddenly precarious.
Just when she's at boiling point, she finds herself faced with a professional situation so unlikely it’s almost laughable, but as things unfold, what seemed like a joke is no longer funny, as sinister influences take a keen interest in Ballycarrick, but why?
So, when an eccentric old couple move to Ballycarrick, claiming to be a witch and a warlock, she thinks why not? What harm could they do? But their presence is fascinating some and infuriating others, and both sides want her involved.
Her husband’s old girlfriend is back in town, and the rumour mill starts turning, and relationships Mags has relied on all her life seem suddenly precarious.
Just when she's at boiling point, she finds herself faced with a professional situation so unlikely it’s almost laughable, but as things unfold, what seemed like a joke is no longer funny, as sinister influences take a keen interest in Ballycarrick, but why?
272 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 24, 2024
1211 people are currently reading
138 people want to read
About the author
Jean Grainger
87 books1,548 followersJean Grainger was born in Cork, Ireland. She has been a tour guide of her beloved home country, a teacher, a university lecturer and a playwright. She began writing fiction at the suggestion of her clients on tours, many of whom were sure all the stories she told them would make for a great book. Her first book, The Tour, has become a Number 1 bestseller on Amazon. It tells the story of a disparate group of American visitors to Ireland, who, along with their Irish tour guide have a life changing experience in the magical Emerald Isle.
Her second book, So Much Owed, is a family saga set during the Second World War. The story centres on the Buckley family of West Cork and how their lives are pulled in different directions as they become embroiled in the war. It is a sweeping family saga of intrigue and romance against the background of occupied Europe.
In her third novel, Shadow of a Century, she tells a tale of a battered old flag found in New York in 2016, a century after it was used during the Easter Rising, when Ireland made her final bid for freedom from Great Britain. This tells the story of a journalist who uncovers a story, one with much more to it than a flag.
Her fourth novel, due out in Spring 2016, Under Heaven’s Shining Stars, is set in the 1970s in Cork, Ireland and is a novel about friendship. Three boys, Liam, Patrick and Hugo, though from very different backgrounds are united in a deep but often times challenging friendship. As their lives progress, only by staying strong, can they prevail. Or fail.
Her novella, Letters of Freedom, tells the story of Carmel, stuck in a pointless marriage, when a figure from her past emerges and changes everything with a ‘like’ on Facebook. This quick read will touch your heart.
She lives in Cork with her husband and her two youngest children. The older two come home occasionally with laundry and to raid the fridge.
Her second book, So Much Owed, is a family saga set during the Second World War. The story centres on the Buckley family of West Cork and how their lives are pulled in different directions as they become embroiled in the war. It is a sweeping family saga of intrigue and romance against the background of occupied Europe.
In her third novel, Shadow of a Century, she tells a tale of a battered old flag found in New York in 2016, a century after it was used during the Easter Rising, when Ireland made her final bid for freedom from Great Britain. This tells the story of a journalist who uncovers a story, one with much more to it than a flag.
Her fourth novel, due out in Spring 2016, Under Heaven’s Shining Stars, is set in the 1970s in Cork, Ireland and is a novel about friendship. Three boys, Liam, Patrick and Hugo, though from very different backgrounds are united in a deep but often times challenging friendship. As their lives progress, only by staying strong, can they prevail. Or fail.
Her novella, Letters of Freedom, tells the story of Carmel, stuck in a pointless marriage, when a figure from her past emerges and changes everything with a ‘like’ on Facebook. This quick read will touch your heart.
She lives in Cork with her husband and her two youngest children. The older two come home occasionally with laundry and to raid the fridge.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 144 reviews
April 1, 2024
The lovable Mags Munroe is back again doing the best that she can to keep peace and harmony in Ballycarrick. Little does she know that she's going to again get herself into a situation which will likely cause her husband Kieran anxiety and some sleepless nights. I've become so enamored with this series that I hope it doesn't end anytime soon. When you sit down to read this I suggest finding a quiet place where you can be alone and undisturbed. Then, turn off your phone, put up a do not disturb sign, and settle in for a few hours of enjoyable escape to the beautiful Emerald Isle. It will certainly be time well spent and likely much enjoyed.
July 6, 2024
This has been one of my favorite series, particularly enjoying the audiobooks narrated by Siobhan Waring. I purchased this "next in series" the day it came out, not realizing that the author narrated this one. I was really excited to listen to a comfort read, but boy was I disappointed! The author's narration did not stand up. She had this tendency to wobble from loud to soft, making it jarring in some instances and very difficult to hear in others. This really distracted me and I had a hard time enjoying this one. Too bad!!
June 18, 2024
I love this series of books about the feisty Garda Sergeant Mags Munroe and her family and village. In this book, the first half was about things going on in the community and Mags' family and I wondered if anything was going to happen to engage the police. It helps if you have read the previous books because there are a lot of characters to catch up on. But finally in the second half an interesting plot develops and Mags is caught up in the intrigue. There are some good villains and people not to like, especially Mags' mother-in-law Nora who is a real piece of...work. Mags' daughters and husband have prominent roles and the family life and their marriage are great elements of the books. There is even a gay wedding and a visit to Connor and his castle from The Tour. A quick and fun and interesting read.
January 4, 2025
I love this series! Mags Munroe is as always so very busy taking care of her family, her staff, and her community. Her thoughts are so revealing about life in a small Irish town and the pressures they face. Some of it everyday and some of it unusual. She isn’t comfortable with racism or sexism and though she finds it difficult to deal w/Gen Zs she really tries and she wants only the best for her family and pets. As a JRT owner they can be very sensitive and I was so glad that she tries very hard to get Rollo to be comfortable w/her. I listened to it and had to speed up the narration a little bit.
May 14, 2024
Always good
You can’t go wrong with the Mags Monroe series! A very relaxing read but still intriguing and a page turner.
You can’t go wrong with the Mags Monroe series! A very relaxing read but still intriguing and a page turner.
November 21, 2024
I have loved every book on this series and I’m sad there’s only one more. I’m going to miss all these people.
May 21, 2025
I had settled nicely into this cozy series during the first three books, but this one was a disappointment to me. Changing the narrator for one book was the first mistake. It just didn’t read the same in a different voice, the recording was poor quality, and there were multiple errors that weren’t edited out.
I felt the mystery was overshadowed by the personal drama, and almost felt like an aside. It was slow to develop, and lacked any suspense.
The biggest disappointment to me was the inconsistency on some of the details from the first three books. It was as if the author didn’t write the book herself (which was strange since she narrated it), or that she completely forgot her character development from the rest of the series. Examples: The backstory on Martha’s son suddenly became that he was Annette’s son. In a previous book, the traveler tradition of burning their caravan and possessions was observed when Daisy died, but now Jerome and his wife are living in it. There were several other inaccuracies, but I’m curious if anyone else noticed and was as bothered by them?
Here’s to hoping the final book in the series redeems this one. I’ve otherwise found it an easy, light, enjoyable series prior to this book.
I felt the mystery was overshadowed by the personal drama, and almost felt like an aside. It was slow to develop, and lacked any suspense.
The biggest disappointment to me was the inconsistency on some of the details from the first three books. It was as if the author didn’t write the book herself (which was strange since she narrated it), or that she completely forgot her character development from the rest of the series. Examples: The backstory on Martha’s son suddenly became that he was Annette’s son. In a previous book, the traveler tradition of burning their caravan and possessions was observed when Daisy died, but now Jerome and his wife are living in it. There were several other inaccuracies, but I’m curious if anyone else noticed and was as bothered by them?
Here’s to hoping the final book in the series redeems this one. I’ve otherwise found it an easy, light, enjoyable series prior to this book.
November 15, 2024
Where in the world does Jean get her ideas for new stories? She just doesn't seem to be running out of ideas. Of course, she does have her two daughters and husband to help her.
It seems Maggie Munroe is drawn into a conflicts specific for her town. Join Maggie and her family as in another adventure.
This book is even better the second time I read it. Jean Grainger does draw you into the story and then Maggie Monroe takes over. It is fascinating. One children's author once told me that the characters in her book had lived with her for years. They were everywhere and kept reminding her that they were there. After all, they were mischievous. Finally, after at least 10 years if not more, she finally wrote a second book with them in it. They then disappeared from her home until the next time. I think Maggie does this to Jean.
It seems Maggie Munroe is drawn into a conflicts specific for her town. Join Maggie and her family as in another adventure.
This book is even better the second time I read it. Jean Grainger does draw you into the story and then Maggie Monroe takes over. It is fascinating. One children's author once told me that the characters in her book had lived with her for years. They were everywhere and kept reminding her that they were there. After all, they were mischievous. Finally, after at least 10 years if not more, she finally wrote a second book with them in it. They then disappeared from her home until the next time. I think Maggie does this to Jean.
April 22, 2024
Things are not always what they seem....this proves to be the theme of several characters and events in this book.
Mags' new recruit, Zoe, is the epitome of Gen Z and is a true enigma to Mags. However, Zoe shapes up to be more than she first appears and becomes a valued member of the local Garda.
Two new comers, Millie and Neal, an eccentric couple who claim to be a witch and warlock, cause havoc with some of the townspeople of Ballycarrick. Are they just a harmless old couple who like to perform readings and cleanse auras, or is there more there than meets the eye?
Mags' husband Kieran finds himself helping an old girlfriend when Roisin and her husband Joel move back to Ireland from New York and need repairs on the old house they purchased. This is just an innocent situation of helping an old friend, right? Surely Mags can trust her husband despite the fact that Roisin seems to still have a "thing" for Kieran.
We also see some old friends in this book. Kieran's brother is getting married and the wedding is set at Castle Dysert! We briefly get to reconnect with Connor and Ana and find they are doing well.
I would highly recommend this 4th installment of the Mags Munroe series to anyone who enjoys reading fun mysteries. Although it can be read as a standalone book, I would recommend reading from book 1 to get the full scope of the story and characters. Jean Grainger is a great storyteller that you will not want to miss!
Mags' new recruit, Zoe, is the epitome of Gen Z and is a true enigma to Mags. However, Zoe shapes up to be more than she first appears and becomes a valued member of the local Garda.
Two new comers, Millie and Neal, an eccentric couple who claim to be a witch and warlock, cause havoc with some of the townspeople of Ballycarrick. Are they just a harmless old couple who like to perform readings and cleanse auras, or is there more there than meets the eye?
Mags' husband Kieran finds himself helping an old girlfriend when Roisin and her husband Joel move back to Ireland from New York and need repairs on the old house they purchased. This is just an innocent situation of helping an old friend, right? Surely Mags can trust her husband despite the fact that Roisin seems to still have a "thing" for Kieran.
We also see some old friends in this book. Kieran's brother is getting married and the wedding is set at Castle Dysert! We briefly get to reconnect with Connor and Ana and find they are doing well.
I would highly recommend this 4th installment of the Mags Munroe series to anyone who enjoys reading fun mysteries. Although it can be read as a standalone book, I would recommend reading from book 1 to get the full scope of the story and characters. Jean Grainger is a great storyteller that you will not want to miss!
April 12, 2024
Our intrepid heroine Sgt Mags Munroe is back for a 4th time. Wow, what a woman! She has so much to deal with apart from her job as Sergeant, lively daughters with a penchant for bringing lonely unruly pets into the house, a husband with a new hobby as well as the monster in law ( her words) from hell!
Things come to a climax when out of the blue, Kieran's ex girlfriend Roisin and husband decide to relocate back to Ireland where she was brought up.
Mags' friend Sharon is suspicious of Roisin which causes some friction but Mags remains calm and tries to include her back into their life but Roisin is not easily deterred. Anyway things unfurl and Mags has to take a firmer stance as does Kieran.
Back on the work front, Mags is called to Dublin by her old friend Ronan and is somewhat shocked to find that she is needed in a top secret project much to 'Duckie's' (a senior officer) disgust.
An old favourite makes an appearance too which is a bonus!!
I love that these stories are written in the first person as though Mags is holding a personal conversation with the reader and Jean never fails to keep us on the edge of our seat, or up all hours until we get to the end.
Jean's writing is brilliant and every book is as good, or better than the last.
Thank you for the pleasure you bring to your readers. Please keep on writing ✍️ these brilliant stories!
Things come to a climax when out of the blue, Kieran's ex girlfriend Roisin and husband decide to relocate back to Ireland where she was brought up.
Mags' friend Sharon is suspicious of Roisin which causes some friction but Mags remains calm and tries to include her back into their life but Roisin is not easily deterred. Anyway things unfurl and Mags has to take a firmer stance as does Kieran.
Back on the work front, Mags is called to Dublin by her old friend Ronan and is somewhat shocked to find that she is needed in a top secret project much to 'Duckie's' (a senior officer) disgust.
An old favourite makes an appearance too which is a bonus!!
I love that these stories are written in the first person as though Mags is holding a personal conversation with the reader and Jean never fails to keep us on the edge of our seat, or up all hours until we get to the end.
Jean's writing is brilliant and every book is as good, or better than the last.
Thank you for the pleasure you bring to your readers. Please keep on writing ✍️ these brilliant stories!
April 16, 2024
Read my full review on Rosepoint Publishing.
There’s always a lot going on in the little village of Ballycarrick, Cork, Ireland. Mags Munroe, the Garda Chief, and her husband Kieran juggle the station and the local townspeople. The author has that special blarney gift for spinning tales and this series is particularly endearing.
In this installment is the unusual introduction of a witch and warlock creating conflict with the Travellers, an ex of Kieran’s, and on a more serious note possible espionage.
Easy to engage in a Mags Munroe, never a dull moment in her world. Mags never shies away from following the leads where they take her—which has gotten her in a lot of trouble before and does so again.
These are generally fast, easy, and fun reads. Her family quickly become familiar friends and the plots are generally more complex than would seem on the surface. Usually satisfied in the conclusion, each can be read as a standalone, but as this is Book 4 of this series you may wish to start back at Book 1. 4.5 stars
I received a complimentary review copy of this book from the author that in no way influenced this review. These are my honest thoughts.
There’s always a lot going on in the little village of Ballycarrick, Cork, Ireland. Mags Munroe, the Garda Chief, and her husband Kieran juggle the station and the local townspeople. The author has that special blarney gift for spinning tales and this series is particularly endearing.
In this installment is the unusual introduction of a witch and warlock creating conflict with the Travellers, an ex of Kieran’s, and on a more serious note possible espionage.
Easy to engage in a Mags Munroe, never a dull moment in her world. Mags never shies away from following the leads where they take her—which has gotten her in a lot of trouble before and does so again.
These are generally fast, easy, and fun reads. Her family quickly become familiar friends and the plots are generally more complex than would seem on the surface. Usually satisfied in the conclusion, each can be read as a standalone, but as this is Book 4 of this series you may wish to start back at Book 1. 4.5 stars
I received a complimentary review copy of this book from the author that in no way influenced this review. These are my honest thoughts.
May 15, 2024
The 4th book about Mags Munroe did not disappoint.
There was all the humour, antics, family issues, new pets, as well as Mags trying to be an excellent sergeant and role model in the Irish Garde, stationed at a small village.
Mags is just an ordinary woman who doubts herself sometimes, comparing herself to some of the glamorous women in her life, including the ex girlfriend of her husband Kieran. Kieran has his own plumbing business, and he loves Mags more than anything.
As it is in small villages, tongue's start to wag and stories created that are completely wrong, things are misconstrued and this creates great angst for Mags.
Her mother is on a cruise with her new husband, so she does not have her to turn to. Her best friend is believing some of the stories about Kieran as well.
Jean weaves in characters and places from previous novels, which makes one feel part of the story.
Once again in crime fighting, Mags finds herself in a very tricky situation, which n is quite funny even though frightening even though Mags saves the day, with help from Kieran who rescues her.
Another great read from Jean Grainger that I could not put down. Then when I finished it, I felt lost
.
There was all the humour, antics, family issues, new pets, as well as Mags trying to be an excellent sergeant and role model in the Irish Garde, stationed at a small village.
Mags is just an ordinary woman who doubts herself sometimes, comparing herself to some of the glamorous women in her life, including the ex girlfriend of her husband Kieran. Kieran has his own plumbing business, and he loves Mags more than anything.
As it is in small villages, tongue's start to wag and stories created that are completely wrong, things are misconstrued and this creates great angst for Mags.
Her mother is on a cruise with her new husband, so she does not have her to turn to. Her best friend is believing some of the stories about Kieran as well.
Jean weaves in characters and places from previous novels, which makes one feel part of the story.
Once again in crime fighting, Mags finds herself in a very tricky situation, which n is quite funny even though frightening even though Mags saves the day, with help from Kieran who rescues her.
Another great read from Jean Grainger that I could not put down. Then when I finished it, I felt lost
.
April 18, 2024
Another great story full of relatable characters. Mags, being a working mother with two daughters, is close to my heart, and continues to show the challenges of balancing work and home life, duty and personal desires, community and family, and friendships. I think it's a talent to get glimpses of characters from past books, and to see a different facet of Mags's life. As well, I appreciate how the police matters are described but not excessively detailed, as this series is not a crime series, but a character based series involving a woman who works in the Garda. Thought provoking without being preachy, the story hits points both personal, local, and global, with satisfying character and plot development. I won't give away any spoilers, but with some laugh out loud parts, as well as some poignant and touching sections, if you want a book that in the end just feels "good" this is a great choice.
September 20, 2024
Amazing
The Mags Munroe series is so real and spot on. Jean Grainger spotlights current world events in her books with relatable characters and scenarios. She is a master storyteller. I get so caught up in the telling of the story that I forget that Mags is a fictional character, especially when I find myself identifying with her emotions and points of view. Mags brings out Grainger's character and sense of humor. I would recommend this series as well as all the books she has written. Jean Grainger is a rare talent, and I feel better educated about Irish life as she gives me insights into the history and character of Ireland and Irish peoples. Not only do I have Irish ancestry, but I have had the good fortune to have visited her beautiful country and experienced the character of her people. The Irish people are not only friendly, but gracious and truly lovely.
The Mags Munroe series is so real and spot on. Jean Grainger spotlights current world events in her books with relatable characters and scenarios. She is a master storyteller. I get so caught up in the telling of the story that I forget that Mags is a fictional character, especially when I find myself identifying with her emotions and points of view. Mags brings out Grainger's character and sense of humor. I would recommend this series as well as all the books she has written. Jean Grainger is a rare talent, and I feel better educated about Irish life as she gives me insights into the history and character of Ireland and Irish peoples. Not only do I have Irish ancestry, but I have had the good fortune to have visited her beautiful country and experienced the character of her people. The Irish people are not only friendly, but gracious and truly lovely.
April 10, 2024
Mags is back, and time is bringing changes as it passes. Life with a teenager is a challenge, especially with a mother-in-law as overbearing as Mags’. Cultural changes are affecting Mags’ relationship with the Travellers. Pets in the house are a problem she didn’t expect. There’s a new face in the Garda station. And to top it all off, Kiernan’s old flame is back and has her eyes set on him. All in all, Mags has her hands full.
Jean Grainger is an excellent writer whose characters come more alive on every page. This book does not fall short of previous efforts. It is an indication of the realism of her characters when the reader gets excited to see someone from an older series. This one sure did.
Jean Grainger is an excellent writer whose characters come more alive on every page. This book does not fall short of previous efforts. It is an indication of the realism of her characters when the reader gets excited to see someone from an older series. This one sure did.
April 6, 2024
Another fun story about Mags Monroe and the unusual town of Ballycarrick, Cork, ireland. Mags, the local Garda Chief and her lovely husband, Kieran, are the delight of the town. They are likeable, trustworthy and reliable, and the author's description of all the local townspeople, including Mags' own daughters, will keep readers coming back for more.
This particular story includes the local Travellers, immigration and housing problems, a witch and a warlock, espionsage. attempts to claim lost love, and dangerous heroics by our beloved Mags.
An easy fun read which you will not want to put down until the end. I gladly read this as an ARC, and am happy to review it for other readers.
This particular story includes the local Travellers, immigration and housing problems, a witch and a warlock, espionsage. attempts to claim lost love, and dangerous heroics by our beloved Mags.
An easy fun read which you will not want to put down until the end. I gladly read this as an ARC, and am happy to review it for other readers.
April 25, 2024
In Closer Than You Think Mags Munroe is juggling more than usual. Her family has acquired three pets, new residents of Ballycarrick are causing turmoil with older members of the community, Mags has a special hush-hush assignment to keep a transmission cable safe, and Kieran’s old flame Roisin has returned to live after decades in America. Ms. Grainger’s well written books always enchant me. I love the detail and the ordinariness of so much of Mag’s life. There is also a lot of drama and some serious peril involved. I could not sleep until I reached the end!
April 28, 2024
Best one yet!
Really loved this Mags book. She is so relatable as always. This felt like a reunion with friends I've been missing. The twists and turns involving criminals kept me up reading all night. I would just like to know if the family sock drawer was manifested from domestic practices in the author's own life since she did
admit that she and Mags have much in common!? Brilliant idea that I plan to borrow.
Please bring Mags back soon for another visit. I miss her already .
Really loved this Mags book. She is so relatable as always. This felt like a reunion with friends I've been missing. The twists and turns involving criminals kept me up reading all night. I would just like to know if the family sock drawer was manifested from domestic practices in the author's own life since she did
admit that she and Mags have much in common!? Brilliant idea that I plan to borrow.
Please bring Mags back soon for another visit. I miss her already .
July 11, 2024
Think this author makes me laugh. Her main character, Mags, has a self-deprecating character that makes everyone in her Irish village love her, especially her husband, Kieran, and her two daughters. She has developed the characters and their back stories well. We know what to expect from Nora, her terrible monster-in-law and from her friend, Sharon, and from Dickie, the pompous ass police officer for the neighboring town. This one involves Russian spies who pretend to be a witch and a warlock. It also introduces us to Roisin, Kieran’s old girlfriend, who causes some trouble.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 9, 2025
Good book
I love the characters, plot and setting. It is most of the things I enjoy reading, interesting but not too stressful. I always enjoy learning new info. My only gripe is when smart characters do risky and foolish stuff to create a crisis for the plot. It has not been a problem for me in the author's other books in this series. Accidentally being at risk, in my mind, is not a problem for plots, but a clever protagonist deciding to do a clearly dangerous thing, without letting anyone know, irks my reading enjoyment so one less star on a good book.
I love the characters, plot and setting. It is most of the things I enjoy reading, interesting but not too stressful. I always enjoy learning new info. My only gripe is when smart characters do risky and foolish stuff to create a crisis for the plot. It has not been a problem for me in the author's other books in this series. Accidentally being at risk, in my mind, is not a problem for plots, but a clever protagonist deciding to do a clearly dangerous thing, without letting anyone know, irks my reading enjoyment so one less star on a good book.
June 12, 2025
Closer than you think is the fourth Mags Monroe book. It can be read as a stand-alone although the family dynamics are formed across the series as a whole.
Mags is a wife, mum, Garda and genuinely nice person. Ballycarrick has new people who are not as they seem. This together with the return of her husband’s ex girlfriend gives Mags plenty to do.
I enjoyed this book, loved the surprise crossover, and definitely recommend it to anyone looking for a good, easy read that will keep you turning the pages.
Mags is a wife, mum, Garda and genuinely nice person. Ballycarrick has new people who are not as they seem. This together with the return of her husband’s ex girlfriend gives Mags plenty to do.
I enjoyed this book, loved the surprise crossover, and definitely recommend it to anyone looking for a good, easy read that will keep you turning the pages.
June 30, 2025
Not quite a 5 star for me like some of her others.
I still liked it but it was not a book I just had to keep listening to or really wanted to get back to. There seemed to be a lot going on with a lot of different characters. With this book you got to know the townspeople a bit more in depth but not a lot of Mags' police work until nearer to the end of the book.
But I still enjoy reading about Mags Munroe and am not yet bored with the series. Already have the next one purchased and downloaded for listening.
As always, the audio was very good.
I still liked it but it was not a book I just had to keep listening to or really wanted to get back to. There seemed to be a lot going on with a lot of different characters. With this book you got to know the townspeople a bit more in depth but not a lot of Mags' police work until nearer to the end of the book.
But I still enjoy reading about Mags Munroe and am not yet bored with the series. Already have the next one purchased and downloaded for listening.
As always, the audio was very good.
July 16, 2025
I tore through Book 4 of the Mags Munroe series. I know I will regret reading them so quickly. I feel so at home in the Munroe family. The girls are getting older and behaving like teenagers. Mags still needs her shapewear for dress up occasions. This book had an international spy plot which required Mags to be part of a task force. The wedding of officers Darren and Delia is coming with neither family thrilled. Roisin, former girlfriend of Kieran, tries mightily to steal him back from Mags, with much drama. A satisfying read!
April 28, 2024
Series was a great read!
Great characters! Very believable descriptions of the relationships between spouses & children. The everyday ordinary life in a small community is so interestingly written about. I could picture the traveller group, the petty politics in the police station, and all the different shop keepers. I especially liked the way current events were woven into the story of the small town giving g the whole series a much broader scope of the world.
Well done!
Great characters! Very believable descriptions of the relationships between spouses & children. The everyday ordinary life in a small community is so interestingly written about. I could picture the traveller group, the petty politics in the police station, and all the different shop keepers. I especially liked the way current events were woven into the story of the small town giving g the whole series a much broader scope of the world.
Well done!
May 4, 2024
A Delightful Mystery!
Loved it!
The day to day life of Mags Munroe rings true for anyone who’s Irish or lives among us!
There are plenty of smiles tucked in around the trials and tribulations of a small town in Ireland and mysteries aplenty. Mags manages the police department, the quirky townsfolk, and her own household (including some unusual house pets), while dealing with possible international intrigue, and a snarky mother-in-law.
Very enjoyable read!
Loved it!
The day to day life of Mags Munroe rings true for anyone who’s Irish or lives among us!
There are plenty of smiles tucked in around the trials and tribulations of a small town in Ireland and mysteries aplenty. Mags manages the police department, the quirky townsfolk, and her own household (including some unusual house pets), while dealing with possible international intrigue, and a snarky mother-in-law.
Very enjoyable read!
May 18, 2024
Adore this series
This is a wonderful series, and I'm hoping there are more to come. I love an author who can take small town life and infuse it with wonderful and interesting characters and a plot that moves along briskly without sacrificing juicy details. I'm enchanted. And kudos to Ms. Grainger for giving us a heroine who is middle aged, menopausal, and a bit overweight, and brilliant at her job. Mags is a hero we can all relate to. BRAVA!
This is a wonderful series, and I'm hoping there are more to come. I love an author who can take small town life and infuse it with wonderful and interesting characters and a plot that moves along briskly without sacrificing juicy details. I'm enchanted. And kudos to Ms. Grainger for giving us a heroine who is middle aged, menopausal, and a bit overweight, and brilliant at her job. Mags is a hero we can all relate to. BRAVA!
July 6, 2024
Mags the super hero.
This book was so well done it kept you wanting more as each opened to another great story. I like the fact that there is no vulgarity and that the story is filled with true love and drama all at the same time. I like the antagonist Nora she is a great asset to the story. I hope one day she will really see her daughter in law for all she is to the family. I love this series, it is a great fun read.
This book was so well done it kept you wanting more as each opened to another great story. I like the fact that there is no vulgarity and that the story is filled with true love and drama all at the same time. I like the antagonist Nora she is a great asset to the story. I hope one day she will really see her daughter in law for all she is to the family. I love this series, it is a great fun read.
October 3, 2024
Real life in a cozy Irish village
I have thoroughly enjoyed the whole Mags Monroe series so far. I enjoyed the genuine nature of the characters. The relationship between Mags and Kieran is what many people aspire to. They stick together through thick and thin and seem to listen to each others needs and act on them without being asked. So settle in with your cuppa tea or glass of wine and get ready for a good ride.
I have thoroughly enjoyed the whole Mags Monroe series so far. I enjoyed the genuine nature of the characters. The relationship between Mags and Kieran is what many people aspire to. They stick together through thick and thin and seem to listen to each others needs and act on them without being asked. So settle in with your cuppa tea or glass of wine and get ready for a good ride.
October 29, 2024
The best Mags Monroe installment yet. As a Sargent in the Irish Garde, Mags keeps a close eye on the townspeople of Ballycarrick. This includes settling feuds, enforcing the law around minor infractions and also keeping her own family, especially her monster-in-law Nora, in line. But what happens when she is chosen for a special mission to watch for any suspicious characters new to town who may be Russian spies bent on destroying communication lines along the Irish coast?
April 24, 2024
Jean Grainger is one of my favorite authors. Her characters are real, as if I’ve stepped into their world or they into mine. I said in another review that Mags is everywoman, and so she remains.
The blurb says all that I would have said, so I’ll keep this short. Read the book. You’ll be glad you did.
The blurb says all that I would have said, so I’ll keep this short. Read the book. You’ll be glad you did.
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