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The Wild Atlantic Murders #1
The Clew Bay Detective
Welcome to Westport, where the wild beauty of Ireland’s western coast hides deadly secrets…
Reeling from a devastating breakup, landscape gardener Ali Brennan escapes to the small coastal town of Westport, hoping its rugged shoreline and quiet rhythms will help her rebuild her life. But peace is short lived when wealthy landowner John Clifford-Murphy is found dead on a remote island in Clew Bay – alone, and inexplicably without his phone or vital medication.
The local Gardaí are quick to rule the death an accident. Ali isn’t so sure… especially when Clifford-Murphy’s widow begs her to look more closely. Joined by her enthusiastic college-dropout nephew, Gav, Ali begins to ask questions the tight-knit community would rather leave unanswered. And when her ex-boyfriend, Detective Aidan Cahill, turns up to inform her that her life is under threat, Ali is forced to confront the past she thought she’d left behind.
As secrets surface, the danger escalates. When Ali herself becomes a target – waking terrified and alone on the shores of nearby lake Doo Lough – it’s clear the investigation has drawn her into something far darker than she ever imagined. Can Ali uncover the truth before the killer strikes again?
Perfect for fans of Emylia Hall, LJ Ross and Carlene O’Connor.
Reeling from a devastating breakup, landscape gardener Ali Brennan escapes to the small coastal town of Westport, hoping its rugged shoreline and quiet rhythms will help her rebuild her life. But peace is short lived when wealthy landowner John Clifford-Murphy is found dead on a remote island in Clew Bay – alone, and inexplicably without his phone or vital medication.
The local Gardaí are quick to rule the death an accident. Ali isn’t so sure… especially when Clifford-Murphy’s widow begs her to look more closely. Joined by her enthusiastic college-dropout nephew, Gav, Ali begins to ask questions the tight-knit community would rather leave unanswered. And when her ex-boyfriend, Detective Aidan Cahill, turns up to inform her that her life is under threat, Ali is forced to confront the past she thought she’d left behind.
As secrets surface, the danger escalates. When Ali herself becomes a target – waking terrified and alone on the shores of nearby lake Doo Lough – it’s clear the investigation has drawn her into something far darker than she ever imagined. Can Ali uncover the truth before the killer strikes again?
Perfect for fans of Emylia Hall, LJ Ross and Carlene O’Connor.
316 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 16, 2026
About the author
Pam Lecky
19 books310 followersPam is an Irish author of historical and contemporary crime and mystery, published by Storm Publishing and Avon Books UK (Harper Collins).
Pam's Victorian murder mystery series features Lucy Lawrence, along with her trusty maid, Mary, and the enigmatic investigator, Phineas Stone. Lucy solves some nasty crimes along the way and although she is often a magnet for trouble, she invariably comes good in the end. The books are set in the UK and Europe during the late Victorian period.
The Sarah Gillespie espionage series (trilogy) features an Irish woman working for MI5 during WW2. Pam has also written a standalone WW2 murder mystery, Under A Lightning Sky, set during the Blitz.
The Bowes Inheritance, Pam’s debut novel, was awarded the B.R.A.G. Medallion; was shortlisted for the Carousel Aware Prize 2016; made 'Editor's Choice' by the Historical Novel Society; long-listed for the Historical Novel Society 2016 Indie Award; and chosen as a Discovered Diamond in 2017.
Pam’s current project is The Wild Atlantic Murders series, a contemporary Irish crime series (cozy crime with a bit of an edge!), the first book of which will be published on June 16th 2026. The Clew Bay Detectives is set in Co. Mayo and features a landscape designer, Ali Brennan, who discovers she has a surprising talent for solving crime.
Pam is represented by Thérèse Coen at Susanna Lea Associates Literary Agency, London. Pam is a member of the Historical Novel Society, The Crime Writers' Association and the Society of Authors.
Pam's Victorian murder mystery series features Lucy Lawrence, along with her trusty maid, Mary, and the enigmatic investigator, Phineas Stone. Lucy solves some nasty crimes along the way and although she is often a magnet for trouble, she invariably comes good in the end. The books are set in the UK and Europe during the late Victorian period.
The Sarah Gillespie espionage series (trilogy) features an Irish woman working for MI5 during WW2. Pam has also written a standalone WW2 murder mystery, Under A Lightning Sky, set during the Blitz.
The Bowes Inheritance, Pam’s debut novel, was awarded the B.R.A.G. Medallion; was shortlisted for the Carousel Aware Prize 2016; made 'Editor's Choice' by the Historical Novel Society; long-listed for the Historical Novel Society 2016 Indie Award; and chosen as a Discovered Diamond in 2017.
Pam’s current project is The Wild Atlantic Murders series, a contemporary Irish crime series (cozy crime with a bit of an edge!), the first book of which will be published on June 16th 2026. The Clew Bay Detectives is set in Co. Mayo and features a landscape designer, Ali Brennan, who discovers she has a surprising talent for solving crime.
Pam is represented by Thérèse Coen at Susanna Lea Associates Literary Agency, London. Pam is a member of the Historical Novel Society, The Crime Writers' Association and the Society of Authors.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 76 reviews
June 30, 2026
Clever cosy mystery.
June 17, 2026
The Clew Bay Detectives by Pam Lecky is a new cozy mystery series, The Wild Atlantic Murders, and looks to be a hit. Ali Brennan owns a landscape design business in Dublin with her brother. She is expanding the business away from Dublin and to a town on the opposite cost named Glenfinn. Things were moving slowly and now her sister was sending her “wayward” son, Gavan, to work with Ali, hoping he might find a place. The book opens with a man dying from his blood sugar dropping; he was diabetic. We lived his death with him. When the police finally found his body, on a remote island, they declared it an accident. His wife didn’t agree and called Ali. Not because she was a detective, she was not. But, rather because she was an outsider. She and her husband had not been popular and they all thought she was nuts. She and Gavan dove in as they had nothing better to do.
The characters are interesting, both the permanent and the ones related to this death. Ali is clever and creative, as well as curious. Gavan rose to the occasion, not being a bad kid, just at that age, not living up to his parents’ expectations. It gets complicated when she discovers her ex-partner, a police detective, is back in Ireland and was nearby. The overwhelming investigation he had been working on it for several years, was coming to a head, and spilled out over to Ali. The local garda was someone that Ali knew and liked. Her cousin, Jacinta, a little odd, owned the local hotel and the cottage Ali and Gavan were living in. Their closest neighbor is a fisherman, well, more than that, really. Terrific group. Looking to see more of them. The plot was good. Murder without touching the dead man, making it look like and accident. Then there was another.the same people kept showing up. Looking forward to the next.
I was invited to read The Clew Bay Detectives by Storm Publishing. All thoughts and opinions are mine. #Netgalley #StormPublishing #PamLecky #TheClewBayDetectives
The characters are interesting, both the permanent and the ones related to this death. Ali is clever and creative, as well as curious. Gavan rose to the occasion, not being a bad kid, just at that age, not living up to his parents’ expectations. It gets complicated when she discovers her ex-partner, a police detective, is back in Ireland and was nearby. The overwhelming investigation he had been working on it for several years, was coming to a head, and spilled out over to Ali. The local garda was someone that Ali knew and liked. Her cousin, Jacinta, a little odd, owned the local hotel and the cottage Ali and Gavan were living in. Their closest neighbor is a fisherman, well, more than that, really. Terrific group. Looking to see more of them. The plot was good. Murder without touching the dead man, making it look like and accident. Then there was another.the same people kept showing up. Looking forward to the next.
I was invited to read The Clew Bay Detectives by Storm Publishing. All thoughts and opinions are mine. #Netgalley #StormPublishing #PamLecky #TheClewBayDetectives
June 17, 2026
The Clew Bay Detectives follows Ali Brennan, a landscape designer, as her nephew, Gavan, comes to live with her and help her set up her business in Glenfinn, a small town in Ireland. After a contentious figure in the town turns up dead, and his widow asks Ali to look into his murder as a fellow outsider to the town, Ali and Gavan get involved in a mystery more convoluted than they imagined.
I really enjoyed this mystery. Ali is a fun, sometimes hotheaded character who's very good at putting together details. I also really enjoyed Gavan and their banter. The mystery itself was also very fun, providing several suspects and clues to throw you off. I also really enjoyed the setting, you get a lot of descriptions of the seaside of Ireland and a look into the homey vibe of a small town with its quirky characters. Overall this was very well written with a lot of fun characters and I can't wait for book 2!
Thank you to NetGalley and Storm Publishing for the ARC!
I really enjoyed this mystery. Ali is a fun, sometimes hotheaded character who's very good at putting together details. I also really enjoyed Gavan and their banter. The mystery itself was also very fun, providing several suspects and clues to throw you off. I also really enjoyed the setting, you get a lot of descriptions of the seaside of Ireland and a look into the homey vibe of a small town with its quirky characters. Overall this was very well written with a lot of fun characters and I can't wait for book 2!
Thank you to NetGalley and Storm Publishing for the ARC!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
The Clew Bay Detectives by Pam Lecky
Synopsis /
Welcome to Westport, where the wild beauty of Ireland’s western coast hides deadly secrets…
Reeling from a devastating breakup, landscape gardener Ali Brennan escapes to the small coastal town of Westport, hoping its rugged shoreline and quiet rhythms will help her rebuild her life. But peace is short lived when wealthy landowner John Clifford-Murphy is found dead on a remote island in Clew Bay – alone, and inexplicably without his phone or vital medication.
The local Gardaí are quick to rule the death an accident. Ali isn’t so sure… especially when Clifford-Murphy’s widow begs her to look more closely. Joined by her enthusiastic college-dropout nephew, Gav, Ali begins to ask questions the tight-knit community would rather leave unanswered. And when her ex-boyfriend, Detective Aidan Cahill, turns up to inform her that her life is under threat, Ali is forced to confront the past she thought she’d left behind.
As secrets surface, the danger escalates. When Ali herself becomes a target – waking terrified and alone on the shores of nearby lake Doo Lough – it’s clear the investigation has drawn her into something far darker than she ever imagined. Can Ali uncover the truth before the killer strikes again?
My Thoughts /
First and foremost, a huge THANK YOU to NetGalley, Storm Publishing and author, Pam Lecky for providing me with a copy of this publication, which allows me to provide you with an unbiased review.
The Clew Bay Detective is the first book in The Wild Atlantic Murders series. As a huge fan of Lecky's Lucy Lawrence Mysteries series, I was quick to hit that request button when finding out a new series was added to her repertoire.
In a nutshell, the plot follows female protagonist, Ali Brennan, a landscape gardener who relocates to the quiet coastal town of Westport, County Mayo, to rebuild her life after a difficult breakup. The peace of the quiet coastal town is shattered when wealthy landowner John Clifford-Murphy is found dead on a remote island in Clew Bay.
The police rule Clifford-Murphy's death accidental – he was an insulin dependent diabetic and was found alone on the island with no phone, food, water, or medication. But the victim's widow is adamant that her husband would never go anywhere without his life-saving medication and pleads with Ali to look into her husband's death.
The mystery unfolds slowly but deliberately, with Lecky introducing key characters and contextual clues exactly when needed.
The characters are likable and generally, well-written. However, Ali is portrayed as a strong-willed and persistent protagonist, preferring to make her own decisions rather than rely on others' guidance, which at times became her undoing, and this reader found it to be one of her more frustrating characteristics.
Where the book truly shines is in Lecky's vivid prose which perfectly captures the Irish coast, transporting me straight onto those windy, desolate shores. Woven with local expressions and cultural texture, the narrative carries a uniquely authentic Irish atmosphere.
As with her Lucy Lawrence Mysteries series, I think this reader will come to enjoy Ali Brennan in books to come.
With thanks to NetGalley and especially to one of my favourite publishers, Storm Publishing 💗 for the much appreciated arc in return for an honest review. All opinions expressed in this review are my own. The publication date is currently set for June 16, 2026.
Synopsis /
Welcome to Westport, where the wild beauty of Ireland’s western coast hides deadly secrets…
Reeling from a devastating breakup, landscape gardener Ali Brennan escapes to the small coastal town of Westport, hoping its rugged shoreline and quiet rhythms will help her rebuild her life. But peace is short lived when wealthy landowner John Clifford-Murphy is found dead on a remote island in Clew Bay – alone, and inexplicably without his phone or vital medication.
The local Gardaí are quick to rule the death an accident. Ali isn’t so sure… especially when Clifford-Murphy’s widow begs her to look more closely. Joined by her enthusiastic college-dropout nephew, Gav, Ali begins to ask questions the tight-knit community would rather leave unanswered. And when her ex-boyfriend, Detective Aidan Cahill, turns up to inform her that her life is under threat, Ali is forced to confront the past she thought she’d left behind.
As secrets surface, the danger escalates. When Ali herself becomes a target – waking terrified and alone on the shores of nearby lake Doo Lough – it’s clear the investigation has drawn her into something far darker than she ever imagined. Can Ali uncover the truth before the killer strikes again?
My Thoughts /
First and foremost, a huge THANK YOU to NetGalley, Storm Publishing and author, Pam Lecky for providing me with a copy of this publication, which allows me to provide you with an unbiased review.
The Clew Bay Detective is the first book in The Wild Atlantic Murders series. As a huge fan of Lecky's Lucy Lawrence Mysteries series, I was quick to hit that request button when finding out a new series was added to her repertoire.
In a nutshell, the plot follows female protagonist, Ali Brennan, a landscape gardener who relocates to the quiet coastal town of Westport, County Mayo, to rebuild her life after a difficult breakup. The peace of the quiet coastal town is shattered when wealthy landowner John Clifford-Murphy is found dead on a remote island in Clew Bay.
The police rule Clifford-Murphy's death accidental – he was an insulin dependent diabetic and was found alone on the island with no phone, food, water, or medication. But the victim's widow is adamant that her husband would never go anywhere without his life-saving medication and pleads with Ali to look into her husband's death.
The mystery unfolds slowly but deliberately, with Lecky introducing key characters and contextual clues exactly when needed.
The characters are likable and generally, well-written. However, Ali is portrayed as a strong-willed and persistent protagonist, preferring to make her own decisions rather than rely on others' guidance, which at times became her undoing, and this reader found it to be one of her more frustrating characteristics.
Where the book truly shines is in Lecky's vivid prose which perfectly captures the Irish coast, transporting me straight onto those windy, desolate shores. Woven with local expressions and cultural texture, the narrative carries a uniquely authentic Irish atmosphere.
As with her Lucy Lawrence Mysteries series, I think this reader will come to enjoy Ali Brennan in books to come.
With thanks to NetGalley and especially to one of my favourite publishers, Storm Publishing 💗 for the much appreciated arc in return for an honest review. All opinions expressed in this review are my own. The publication date is currently set for June 16, 2026.
June 21, 2026
Three and a half stars.
Ali Brennan left Dublin and her job in a thriving landscape gardening business to set up a satellite office in Westport on Ireland's west coast after she broke up with her boyfriend. He was a police officer and never home, but the final straw was when he decided to apply for a job abroad with Interpol without consulting her and just blithely assumed Ali would either be happy with a long-distance relationship or give up her career to move to a foreign country where she would presumably see even less of him than ever. Unfortunately Aidan had become part of the family and Ali's brother and sister are alternating between helicoptering her to make sure she is okay and bringing Aidan up in conversation as often as possible.
While Ali is trying to set up the business she is staying in a cottage in the grounds of her aunt's hotel free of charge in return for doing a bit of DIY. Whilst visiting her aunt at the hotel and getting a tour of the grounds Ali runs into John Clifford-Murphy, a wealthy Londoner who has recently moved to Westport, and his second wife, who Ali knew whilst she was at college.
Not long after their meeting, the small town is rocked by the news that John, a diabetic has gone missing and his wife is worried that without his insulin he could die. A few days later they discover the worst has happened, John's body has been found in a derelict shack on an uninhabited island in Clew Bay. John was an enthusiastic amateur photographer and had gone to the island to photograph seals, the police assume he either forgot his insulin or perhaps lost it alongside his phone and suffered a fatal hypo attack.
However, John's widow is not convinced. John had suffered a hypo once previously and it had made him ultra-vigilant about carrying his insulin, she claims he would never have forgotten to take it with him and he always put it in his camera bag when out photographing wildlife. So she turns to Ali and begs her to investigate John's death. Now here's the bit I don't understand, why Ali? True the local police have ruled it death by misadventure and the widow doesn't really know anyone in Westport very well but other than remembering Ali from a decade ago, what qualifications does Ali have?
Anyway, aside from that niggle there are plenty of suspects to choose from. John was not well-liked, not least because of his autocratic nature, his decision to withdraw fishing rights from the locals to sell as part of a plan to set up a fishing holiday business. He also had a reputation of being a letch. Then of course there is his first wife's mother, his son and daughter, and of course the widow - they possibly all had motives.
But just as Ali is getting stuck into detecting, aided by her nephew, who has been sent by Ali's sister to intern with Ali for the summer, and a local policewoman who used to work with Ali's ex, Aidan himself turns up ordering Ali back to Dublin and claiming that she has put her own life in danger by acting irresponsibly.
I enjoyed this, there were lots of suspects, a bit of suspense, but it also felt that there were too many plots, Aidan's investigation, their relationship, Ali's investigation, other secrets that emerged etc.
I received an ARC from the publisher via NetGalley.
Available on Kindle Unlimited.
Ali Brennan left Dublin and her job in a thriving landscape gardening business to set up a satellite office in Westport on Ireland's west coast after she broke up with her boyfriend. He was a police officer and never home, but the final straw was when he decided to apply for a job abroad with Interpol without consulting her and just blithely assumed Ali would either be happy with a long-distance relationship or give up her career to move to a foreign country where she would presumably see even less of him than ever. Unfortunately Aidan had become part of the family and Ali's brother and sister are alternating between helicoptering her to make sure she is okay and bringing Aidan up in conversation as often as possible.
While Ali is trying to set up the business she is staying in a cottage in the grounds of her aunt's hotel free of charge in return for doing a bit of DIY. Whilst visiting her aunt at the hotel and getting a tour of the grounds Ali runs into John Clifford-Murphy, a wealthy Londoner who has recently moved to Westport, and his second wife, who Ali knew whilst she was at college.
Not long after their meeting, the small town is rocked by the news that John, a diabetic has gone missing and his wife is worried that without his insulin he could die. A few days later they discover the worst has happened, John's body has been found in a derelict shack on an uninhabited island in Clew Bay. John was an enthusiastic amateur photographer and had gone to the island to photograph seals, the police assume he either forgot his insulin or perhaps lost it alongside his phone and suffered a fatal hypo attack.
However, John's widow is not convinced. John had suffered a hypo once previously and it had made him ultra-vigilant about carrying his insulin, she claims he would never have forgotten to take it with him and he always put it in his camera bag when out photographing wildlife. So she turns to Ali and begs her to investigate John's death. Now here's the bit I don't understand, why Ali? True the local police have ruled it death by misadventure and the widow doesn't really know anyone in Westport very well but other than remembering Ali from a decade ago, what qualifications does Ali have?
Anyway, aside from that niggle there are plenty of suspects to choose from. John was not well-liked, not least because of his autocratic nature, his decision to withdraw fishing rights from the locals to sell as part of a plan to set up a fishing holiday business. He also had a reputation of being a letch. Then of course there is his first wife's mother, his son and daughter, and of course the widow - they possibly all had motives.
But just as Ali is getting stuck into detecting, aided by her nephew, who has been sent by Ali's sister to intern with Ali for the summer, and a local policewoman who used to work with Ali's ex, Aidan himself turns up ordering Ali back to Dublin and claiming that she has put her own life in danger by acting irresponsibly.
I enjoyed this, there were lots of suspects, a bit of suspense, but it also felt that there were too many plots, Aidan's investigation, their relationship, Ali's investigation, other secrets that emerged etc.
I received an ARC from the publisher via NetGalley.
Available on Kindle Unlimited.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Synopsis:
After a devastating breakup, landscape gardener Ali Brennan retreats to the seaside town of Westport, hoping the rugged shoreline and quiet charm will help her start over. But her fresh beginning is shattered when wealthy landowner John Clifford-Murphy is found dead on a remote island in Clew Bay — alone, without his phone, and missing the medication he desperately needed to survive.
The local Gardaí are quick to call it a tragic accident. Ali isn’t convinced, especially when the dead man’s widow pleads with her to investigate. With the help of her sharp-witted, college-dropout nephew Gav, Ali begins uncovering secrets the tight-knit community would rather keep buried.
Then Detective Aidan Cahill — the ex Ali has tried hard to forget — arrives with a chilling warning: someone wants her dead.
As the investigation deepens, so does the danger. When Ali wakes terrified and disoriented on the desolate shores of Doo Lough, it becomes clear she’s stumbled into something far darker than a suspicious death.
Now, with the truth closing in and a killer watching her every move, Ali must uncover what really happened before she becomes the next victim.
Review:
The Clew Bay Detectives is a slow-burning, cozy mystery that relies heavily on atmosphere and suspense rather than fast-paced action. The story is told exclusively from Ali’s point of view, which helps keep the events clear and focused while also highlighting what a strong, independent protagonist she is. Ali is capable and determined, making her easy to follow throughout the investigation.
One aspect that stretched believability for me was the premise of someone asking Ali — essentially a stranger with no investigative background — to investigate the death of a husband. It felt far-fetched at times and required a fair amount of suspension of disbelief.
The suspense surrounding the crime boss lingering in the background added a steady sense of danger to the story and helped maintain tension even during the slower moments. However, the pacing overall felt sluggish in places and occasionally dragged, making it harder to stay fully engaged.
The characters are likable and generally well written, but they lacked the emotional depth needed to make me truly invested in them. I never found myself strongly rooting for or against anyone, which made some of the emotional moments feel less impactful.
I was also disappointed that the author glossed over certain details of the crimes with phrases like “You can guess the rest” or “She won’t tell us what she did.” In a mystery novel, avoiding those specifics felt unsatisfying and left parts of the story feeling incomplete.
Where the book truly shines is in its setting. The author does an excellent job creating an authentic Irish atmosphere through vivid environmental descriptions, coastal scenery, and natural Irish inflections in the dialogue. The setting becomes one of the strongest aspects of the novel.
Overall, this is a good choice for fans of atmospheric Irish mysteries and gripping coastal suspense, particularly readers who enjoy immersive settings and slow-burn storytelling.
Thank you to Storm Publishing and NetGalley for the advanced copy in exchange for my honest review.
After a devastating breakup, landscape gardener Ali Brennan retreats to the seaside town of Westport, hoping the rugged shoreline and quiet charm will help her start over. But her fresh beginning is shattered when wealthy landowner John Clifford-Murphy is found dead on a remote island in Clew Bay — alone, without his phone, and missing the medication he desperately needed to survive.
The local Gardaí are quick to call it a tragic accident. Ali isn’t convinced, especially when the dead man’s widow pleads with her to investigate. With the help of her sharp-witted, college-dropout nephew Gav, Ali begins uncovering secrets the tight-knit community would rather keep buried.
Then Detective Aidan Cahill — the ex Ali has tried hard to forget — arrives with a chilling warning: someone wants her dead.
As the investigation deepens, so does the danger. When Ali wakes terrified and disoriented on the desolate shores of Doo Lough, it becomes clear she’s stumbled into something far darker than a suspicious death.
Now, with the truth closing in and a killer watching her every move, Ali must uncover what really happened before she becomes the next victim.
Review:
The Clew Bay Detectives is a slow-burning, cozy mystery that relies heavily on atmosphere and suspense rather than fast-paced action. The story is told exclusively from Ali’s point of view, which helps keep the events clear and focused while also highlighting what a strong, independent protagonist she is. Ali is capable and determined, making her easy to follow throughout the investigation.
One aspect that stretched believability for me was the premise of someone asking Ali — essentially a stranger with no investigative background — to investigate the death of a husband. It felt far-fetched at times and required a fair amount of suspension of disbelief.
The suspense surrounding the crime boss lingering in the background added a steady sense of danger to the story and helped maintain tension even during the slower moments. However, the pacing overall felt sluggish in places and occasionally dragged, making it harder to stay fully engaged.
The characters are likable and generally well written, but they lacked the emotional depth needed to make me truly invested in them. I never found myself strongly rooting for or against anyone, which made some of the emotional moments feel less impactful.
I was also disappointed that the author glossed over certain details of the crimes with phrases like “You can guess the rest” or “She won’t tell us what she did.” In a mystery novel, avoiding those specifics felt unsatisfying and left parts of the story feeling incomplete.
Where the book truly shines is in its setting. The author does an excellent job creating an authentic Irish atmosphere through vivid environmental descriptions, coastal scenery, and natural Irish inflections in the dialogue. The setting becomes one of the strongest aspects of the novel.
Overall, this is a good choice for fans of atmospheric Irish mysteries and gripping coastal suspense, particularly readers who enjoy immersive settings and slow-burn storytelling.
Thank you to Storm Publishing and NetGalley for the advanced copy in exchange for my honest review.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This book opens with a man, lying in a ruin on a small island in Clew Bay, off the coast of County Mayo, Ireland, aware that his death is imminent, and reflecting on his life. The action then moves to the Westport area, where readers meet master gardener and landscape designer Ali Brennan. Ali is new to the area, having moved there from Dublin after leaving a long-term relationship. She and her brother had been wanting to expand their business and this seemed like the perfect time and place. Ali's cousin, Jacinta Burke, owner of Burke's Hotel, has a holiday let that needs some refurbishment so Ali moves in there, paying a reduced rent in exchange for some work on the cottage. Ali's nephew, Gavan, soon arrives. He's at a bit of a loose end since he dropped out of Trinity College. He's there to get some part time work and to room with Ali. Little do they know they'll soon be working together as amateur detectives. As Ali tries to get the word out about her business and find her way in rural Ireland, she meets locals, learns about feuds and small town rivalries, and unwittingly becomes involved in an international crime investigation. Then she's asked by his widow to find out what happened to the guy on the island. She reluctantly agrees and she and Gavan find themselves investigating what law enforcement thinks is a case of natural death. Are they right or is something more sinister going on? There are other aspects to the intertwined stories, but I won't say anything more here because I don't want to give anything away.
When I saw that this book is set on the Wild Atlantic Way, I knew I wanted to read it. I've lived on the Wild Atlantic Way for several years, albeit further north. I haven't spent much time in the area where this book is set, although a town I lived in when I first got to Ireland is mentioned a couple of times in passing. The author's note stated that there will be at least two more books in the series and it'd be fun for me if one was set up here in Donegal, but it seems like the areas she's most familiar with are further south. No matter. I will look for the next books and happily read them. I enjoyed this one a lot. I think the author captured the setting beautifully--the landscape, the interpersonal relations in the rural area, the feuds, and the friendliness and willingness to help a newcomer all rang quite true to me. The plot was very well crafted and the story unfolded at just the right pace--as Ali and Gavan learned more about what was going on at the dead man's home, readers began to understand why it could be that someone wanted him dead, while at the same time, the possibility of a natural death was kept open. The mystery at the heart of the book was well done and pretty unique. The ending was satisfying with loose ends in the various plotlines tied up well, but with one ongoing. All in all, I'd say that this is an excellent cozy mystery--one that I thoroughly enjoyed spending time with. I'm thrilled that this will be a series and I look forward to reading the next one.
Thanks to NetGalley, the publisher and the author for a digital review copy.
When I saw that this book is set on the Wild Atlantic Way, I knew I wanted to read it. I've lived on the Wild Atlantic Way for several years, albeit further north. I haven't spent much time in the area where this book is set, although a town I lived in when I first got to Ireland is mentioned a couple of times in passing. The author's note stated that there will be at least two more books in the series and it'd be fun for me if one was set up here in Donegal, but it seems like the areas she's most familiar with are further south. No matter. I will look for the next books and happily read them. I enjoyed this one a lot. I think the author captured the setting beautifully--the landscape, the interpersonal relations in the rural area, the feuds, and the friendliness and willingness to help a newcomer all rang quite true to me. The plot was very well crafted and the story unfolded at just the right pace--as Ali and Gavan learned more about what was going on at the dead man's home, readers began to understand why it could be that someone wanted him dead, while at the same time, the possibility of a natural death was kept open. The mystery at the heart of the book was well done and pretty unique. The ending was satisfying with loose ends in the various plotlines tied up well, but with one ongoing. All in all, I'd say that this is an excellent cozy mystery--one that I thoroughly enjoyed spending time with. I'm thrilled that this will be a series and I look forward to reading the next one.
Thanks to NetGalley, the publisher and the author for a digital review copy.
July 7, 2026
A man goes missing, only to be found dead a few days later. At first glance it appears that his death was from natural causes, but his widow is convinced otherwise. She recruits Ali Brennan, a recent arrival in the town to investigate and find the truth of the matter - and things definitely aren't as straightforward as they seem. But was it murder, or an unfortunate set of circumstances?
This was an odd one - it started really strongly and my hopes were sky high; but the further into the book I got the less it delivered.
There were things I absolutely loved about this book. The setting is stunning - the wild, rugged Irish coast with its isolated nature and beauty is the perfect place for a murder mystery. The book feels authentically Irish too, people aren't just written with an affected accent; the turns of phrase throughout the book and the perspectives of the characters as well as their speech were genuinely Irish and helped me to immerse myself in the location. This is a great advertisement for a trip to Glenfinn and the surrounding areas. I also really liked that there was enough plausible evidence to suggest a suspect rather than it being a leap.
The plot had a lot of good ideas in it, but the wheels did feel like they came off somewhat. On the one string we have Ali, who has moved to the area following a breakup - she's establishing a branch of her family gardening business when she gets pulled into the mystery. On the other, an organised crime plotline providing some grit and peril. Unfortunately that sort of means the book doesn't manage to be a cosy murder mystery or a gritty thriller - sitting on the fence between the two instead.
The characters weren't that well developed. Gavan - Ali's nephew - is probably the best one in the book; he seems like nice kid, slightly lost but smart and a good egg. Ali comes across as unnecessarily stubborn, Aidan is condescending, Jacinta has a heart of gold but is a gossip, the counsellor is just objectionable...everyone is very 2 dimensional which made it quite hard to care about them. We end up knowing nothing about the killer, their motive comes utterly out of the blue...it's just not that well put together in the end.
My biggest issue with this is how much happens off page. There were genuinely moments when I scrolled back to see if I'd missed a chapter because there were some big jumps in the plot, and most of the crucial scenes in the book are ones we don't actually get shown, we're just told about them later.
Not sure if this is a series I would return to - possibly? It's not a bad book, but I would have preferred it to be a little more...convincing.
- Thanks to NetGalley for granting me this ARC in exchange for an honest review -
This was an odd one - it started really strongly and my hopes were sky high; but the further into the book I got the less it delivered.
There were things I absolutely loved about this book. The setting is stunning - the wild, rugged Irish coast with its isolated nature and beauty is the perfect place for a murder mystery. The book feels authentically Irish too, people aren't just written with an affected accent; the turns of phrase throughout the book and the perspectives of the characters as well as their speech were genuinely Irish and helped me to immerse myself in the location. This is a great advertisement for a trip to Glenfinn and the surrounding areas. I also really liked that there was enough plausible evidence to suggest a suspect rather than it being a leap.
The plot had a lot of good ideas in it, but the wheels did feel like they came off somewhat. On the one string we have Ali, who has moved to the area following a breakup - she's establishing a branch of her family gardening business when she gets pulled into the mystery. On the other, an organised crime plotline providing some grit and peril. Unfortunately that sort of means the book doesn't manage to be a cosy murder mystery or a gritty thriller - sitting on the fence between the two instead.
The characters weren't that well developed. Gavan - Ali's nephew - is probably the best one in the book; he seems like nice kid, slightly lost but smart and a good egg. Ali comes across as unnecessarily stubborn, Aidan is condescending, Jacinta has a heart of gold but is a gossip, the counsellor is just objectionable...everyone is very 2 dimensional which made it quite hard to care about them. We end up knowing nothing about the killer, their motive comes utterly out of the blue...it's just not that well put together in the end.
My biggest issue with this is how much happens off page. There were genuinely moments when I scrolled back to see if I'd missed a chapter because there were some big jumps in the plot, and most of the crucial scenes in the book are ones we don't actually get shown, we're just told about them later.
Not sure if this is a series I would return to - possibly? It's not a bad book, but I would have preferred it to be a little more...convincing.
- Thanks to NetGalley for granting me this ARC in exchange for an honest review -
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
⭐⭐ A Beautiful Irish Setting in a Mystery That Was Too Cozy for Me
I received The Clew Bay Detectives by Pam Lecky as an ARC from NetGalley, and the extremely beautiful cover immediately caught my attention. I love a good murder mystery, and the Irish coastal setting made this seem like a book I would enjoy. The strongest part of the novel is easily the sense of place. Clew Bay and the surrounding Irish landscape felt vivid enough that I found myself checking Google Maps and looking into the history of the area because I wanted to understand the geography more clearly. The Irish language, expressions, and cultural texture also gave the book a distinct atmosphere. Unfortunately, even with that beautiful setting, this was dreadfully boring for me.
The main issue is that the book was far too cozy and gentle for my taste. I now realize that cozy mysteries may not be my preferred type of crime fiction because I need more urgency, tension, and investigative momentum. Much of the book felt like it was setting up a future series rather than fully pulling me into this mystery, especially since the next installment is already expected later this year. The mystery itself was decent enough, but it took too long to develop, and parts of the setup did not feel especially convincing to me. Gavan was probably the most memorable character because he read like a young man simply living his best life, and I can see how his growth could be interesting in future books.
Overall, this was a difficult reading experience because I found myself bored to the point of falling asleep multiple times while reading. The mystery was not bad, but it did not appeal to me in the way I hoped it would. I can see this working much better for readers who enjoy cozy mysteries, gentle crime stories, Irish settings, and series that take time to build their world and characters. I also think the author and publisher would do right by readers by pushing for an Irish audiobook because the setting, expressions, rhythm, and atmosphere could come alive beautifully with the right narrator. For me, though, this confirmed that I need more tension and investigative force in my mysteries.
Thank you to NetGalley, author Pam Lecky, and Storm Publishing for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
#TheClewBayDetectives #NetGalley
I received The Clew Bay Detectives by Pam Lecky as an ARC from NetGalley, and the extremely beautiful cover immediately caught my attention. I love a good murder mystery, and the Irish coastal setting made this seem like a book I would enjoy. The strongest part of the novel is easily the sense of place. Clew Bay and the surrounding Irish landscape felt vivid enough that I found myself checking Google Maps and looking into the history of the area because I wanted to understand the geography more clearly. The Irish language, expressions, and cultural texture also gave the book a distinct atmosphere. Unfortunately, even with that beautiful setting, this was dreadfully boring for me.
The main issue is that the book was far too cozy and gentle for my taste. I now realize that cozy mysteries may not be my preferred type of crime fiction because I need more urgency, tension, and investigative momentum. Much of the book felt like it was setting up a future series rather than fully pulling me into this mystery, especially since the next installment is already expected later this year. The mystery itself was decent enough, but it took too long to develop, and parts of the setup did not feel especially convincing to me. Gavan was probably the most memorable character because he read like a young man simply living his best life, and I can see how his growth could be interesting in future books.
Overall, this was a difficult reading experience because I found myself bored to the point of falling asleep multiple times while reading. The mystery was not bad, but it did not appeal to me in the way I hoped it would. I can see this working much better for readers who enjoy cozy mysteries, gentle crime stories, Irish settings, and series that take time to build their world and characters. I also think the author and publisher would do right by readers by pushing for an Irish audiobook because the setting, expressions, rhythm, and atmosphere could come alive beautifully with the right narrator. For me, though, this confirmed that I need more tension and investigative force in my mysteries.
Thank you to NetGalley, author Pam Lecky, and Storm Publishing for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
#TheClewBayDetectives #NetGalley
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Bug thanks to NetGalley, Storm Publishing, and author Pam Lecky for the ARC.
3.5 stars rounded down to 3.
After breaking up her 3-year relationship, Ali Brennan moves to the small coastal town of Westport to find the peace of mind and quiet she desperately needs. However, it does not last long as wealthy landowner John Clifford-Murphy is found dead on a remote island in Clew Bay, and his widow is sure that it was not a tragic accident, as the Gardaí ruled it out to be. When nobody listens to her pleas, she turns to Ali for help. Ali starts her investigation together with her brilliant college-dropout nephew, Gavan. When her investigation makes her a target and puts her life in danger, it is her ex, Detective Inspector Aidan Cahill, who shows up to keep things in check. Despite being aware of the scale of the threat, Ali refuses to run away and is determined to unearth the truth before the killer strikes again.
This cozy mystery has a big advantage: its atmospheric setting. Combined with the author's masterful descriptions, it envelops the reader immediately and makes it easier to get immersed in the story. I was able to draw vivid pictures of each setting in my mind, which made me feel like I was shadowing Ali as she moved around town to get answers to her questions.
While it has some cozy elements, I would not say that this book is a complete cozy mystery. It leans more into being an amateur sleuth murder mystery, and I really appreciated that. Being the daughter of a well-known detective, it did not surprise me to see Ali asking the right questions and coming up with multiple deductions that may solve the case.
I really enjoyed the banter between Ali and Gav. Their banter definitely took the edge off at the right times. Occasionally, Gav became an anchor for Ali, steering her in the right direction and even holding her back when she got carried away, ignoring the warnings of the professionals.
The mystery surrounding the death of Clifford-Murphy kept me guessing and built the right amount of tension throughout the book without dragging too much or, on the contrary, being overwhelming.
Overall, it was a pleasant, atmospheric, and immersive read and I am thankful for the opportunity to read the ARC. I would recommend it to readers who are looking for a mystery that is easy to follow with a vivid Irish backdrop.
3.5 stars rounded down to 3.
After breaking up her 3-year relationship, Ali Brennan moves to the small coastal town of Westport to find the peace of mind and quiet she desperately needs. However, it does not last long as wealthy landowner John Clifford-Murphy is found dead on a remote island in Clew Bay, and his widow is sure that it was not a tragic accident, as the Gardaí ruled it out to be. When nobody listens to her pleas, she turns to Ali for help. Ali starts her investigation together with her brilliant college-dropout nephew, Gavan. When her investigation makes her a target and puts her life in danger, it is her ex, Detective Inspector Aidan Cahill, who shows up to keep things in check. Despite being aware of the scale of the threat, Ali refuses to run away and is determined to unearth the truth before the killer strikes again.
This cozy mystery has a big advantage: its atmospheric setting. Combined with the author's masterful descriptions, it envelops the reader immediately and makes it easier to get immersed in the story. I was able to draw vivid pictures of each setting in my mind, which made me feel like I was shadowing Ali as she moved around town to get answers to her questions.
While it has some cozy elements, I would not say that this book is a complete cozy mystery. It leans more into being an amateur sleuth murder mystery, and I really appreciated that. Being the daughter of a well-known detective, it did not surprise me to see Ali asking the right questions and coming up with multiple deductions that may solve the case.
I really enjoyed the banter between Ali and Gav. Their banter definitely took the edge off at the right times. Occasionally, Gav became an anchor for Ali, steering her in the right direction and even holding her back when she got carried away, ignoring the warnings of the professionals.
The mystery surrounding the death of Clifford-Murphy kept me guessing and built the right amount of tension throughout the book without dragging too much or, on the contrary, being overwhelming.
Overall, it was a pleasant, atmospheric, and immersive read and I am thankful for the opportunity to read the ARC. I would recommend it to readers who are looking for a mystery that is easy to follow with a vivid Irish backdrop.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
The Clew Bay Detectives is the first book in The Wild Atlantic Murders series by Pam Lecky, and it was one of my favorite reads this year so far and I strongly recommend this book in this new series.
Ali Brennan convinces her brother Dominic to set up a branch of their landscape business in Westport, Ireland near Clew Bay. Fortunately for her, she is not alone in this new adventure because her cousin Jacinta lives there and owns a hotel. Her nephew Gav joins her as her intern. As she is still recovering from the breakup of a three-year relationship with her boyfriend, Detective Aidan Cahill, this is an ideal situation for her.
Ali is trying to get her business off the ground, when for some reason Judith, the widow of John Clifford-Murphy, asks her to investigate his death, which has been ruled an accident due to his diabetes. This is strange because Ali and Judith only have a passing acquaintance 12 years previously.
As Ali starts questioning people about John, Aidan shows up to warn her that her life is in danger, and she should move back to Dublin. This is because she had unwittingly gone to a home to bid on landscaping that ended up being owned by a crime boss that Aidan has been investigating for two years. Of course, she stands her ground, which she will eventually regret.
There is a lot going on here with her snooping into John’s death and being worried about the threat to her personally and reconnecting with Aidan. There are plenty of twists and turns to keep a reader engaged in the story and I could not put it down!
Gav is an absolute delight in this story, and while he should go to college, I’d love to see him stay and work in the business and be Ali’s sidekick. I’m sure every reader is rooting for an Ali and Aidan reunion, and hopefully they can fix what went wrong with their relationship. The description of Ali’s location as she navigates her new home makes it easy to envision it in your mind and makes me want to go explore the western side of Ireland.
Thank you NetGalley and Storm Publishing for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Ali Brennan convinces her brother Dominic to set up a branch of their landscape business in Westport, Ireland near Clew Bay. Fortunately for her, she is not alone in this new adventure because her cousin Jacinta lives there and owns a hotel. Her nephew Gav joins her as her intern. As she is still recovering from the breakup of a three-year relationship with her boyfriend, Detective Aidan Cahill, this is an ideal situation for her.
Ali is trying to get her business off the ground, when for some reason Judith, the widow of John Clifford-Murphy, asks her to investigate his death, which has been ruled an accident due to his diabetes. This is strange because Ali and Judith only have a passing acquaintance 12 years previously.
As Ali starts questioning people about John, Aidan shows up to warn her that her life is in danger, and she should move back to Dublin. This is because she had unwittingly gone to a home to bid on landscaping that ended up being owned by a crime boss that Aidan has been investigating for two years. Of course, she stands her ground, which she will eventually regret.
There is a lot going on here with her snooping into John’s death and being worried about the threat to her personally and reconnecting with Aidan. There are plenty of twists and turns to keep a reader engaged in the story and I could not put it down!
Gav is an absolute delight in this story, and while he should go to college, I’d love to see him stay and work in the business and be Ali’s sidekick. I’m sure every reader is rooting for an Ali and Aidan reunion, and hopefully they can fix what went wrong with their relationship. The description of Ali’s location as she navigates her new home makes it easy to envision it in your mind and makes me want to go explore the western side of Ireland.
Thank you NetGalley and Storm Publishing for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Pam Lecky’s The Clew Bay Detectives is a wonderfully atmospheric start to what promises to be an excellent cozy mystery series. Set along Ireland’s stunning Wild Atlantic Way, the story immediately pulled me in with its vivid sense of place and layered mystery.
After leaving behind a long-term relationship in Dublin, Ali Brennan relocates to the Westport area to expand her landscaping business and start fresh. Alongside her nephew Gavan, who has recently dropped out of Trinity College and is trying to figure out his next steps, Ali soon finds herself drawn into the investigation surrounding the suspicious death of a local man found on a small island in Clew Bay. While authorities are quick to dismiss the death as natural causes, the victim’s widow isn’t convinced — and neither are Ali and Gavan for long.
One of the strongest aspects of this book is the setting. Lecky beautifully captures the rugged landscape, close-knit rural communities, local rivalries, lingering feuds, and the warmth shown to newcomers. The atmosphere felt authentic and immersive throughout. The mystery itself was very well crafted, unfolding at exactly the right pace. As Ali and Gavan slowly uncover secrets surrounding the dead man’s life, the possibility of both natural death and murder remains believable, which kept me guessing until the end.
I also really enjoyed the partnership between Ali and Gavan. Their dynamic brought warmth and humor to the story, balancing the darker elements nicely. The intertwined plotlines added depth without becoming overwhelming, and the ending tied things together in a very satisfying way while still leaving room for future books.
Overall, this was an engaging, clever, and highly enjoyable cozy mystery with memorable characters and a beautifully realized Irish setting. I’m thrilled this is the beginning of a series and will absolutely be picking up the next installment.
Thank you to NetGalley, Pam Lecky, and Storm Publishing for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
After leaving behind a long-term relationship in Dublin, Ali Brennan relocates to the Westport area to expand her landscaping business and start fresh. Alongside her nephew Gavan, who has recently dropped out of Trinity College and is trying to figure out his next steps, Ali soon finds herself drawn into the investigation surrounding the suspicious death of a local man found on a small island in Clew Bay. While authorities are quick to dismiss the death as natural causes, the victim’s widow isn’t convinced — and neither are Ali and Gavan for long.
One of the strongest aspects of this book is the setting. Lecky beautifully captures the rugged landscape, close-knit rural communities, local rivalries, lingering feuds, and the warmth shown to newcomers. The atmosphere felt authentic and immersive throughout. The mystery itself was very well crafted, unfolding at exactly the right pace. As Ali and Gavan slowly uncover secrets surrounding the dead man’s life, the possibility of both natural death and murder remains believable, which kept me guessing until the end.
I also really enjoyed the partnership between Ali and Gavan. Their dynamic brought warmth and humor to the story, balancing the darker elements nicely. The intertwined plotlines added depth without becoming overwhelming, and the ending tied things together in a very satisfying way while still leaving room for future books.
Overall, this was an engaging, clever, and highly enjoyable cozy mystery with memorable characters and a beautifully realized Irish setting. I’m thrilled this is the beginning of a series and will absolutely be picking up the next installment.
Thank you to NetGalley, Pam Lecky, and Storm Publishing for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Ali Brennan headed to the small Irish village of Westport after a devastating breakup. She was a landscape gardener, loved her job and hoped she'd pick up plenty of business in the area. The small cottage she was staying in was owned by her cousin, Jacinta, and Ali felt right at home even though the cottage was a little dilapidated. When Ali's nephew, Gavan, joined Ali after dropping out of university, she was grateful for his company, as well as his help in the landscaping business.
Their quiet time soon changed when a local landowner, John Clifford-Murphy, a wealthy but aggressive, not well liked person, went missing, and when his body was discovered at Clew Bay, the Gardaí declared his death a tragic accident. But his widow, Judith, wasn't convinced and begged Ali to investigate - she was grief stricken and sure it was murder. And when Detective Aidan Cahill - Ali's ex - turned up, telling her she was in danger from criminals he and his team were chasing, and ordering her back to Dublin, she refused. Ali was stubborn like that! With danger coming to both Ali and Gav from two sides, her only contact was one of the local Gardaí, Niamh, who had her back. What would be the outcome from the darkness in this normally peaceful village?
The Clew Bay Detective is 1st in the Wild Atlantic Murders series by Pam Lecky and I really enjoyed it! Both Ali & Gav's characters were well written; Ali is a strong and determined young woman, while Gav's brand of humour lifted Ali's spirits. Entertaining, gritty and tense, humerous in places, grim in others, it's a great start to a new series, and in the cosy genre, which I recommend highly.
With thanks to NetGalley & Storm Publishing for my digital ARC to read and review.
Their quiet time soon changed when a local landowner, John Clifford-Murphy, a wealthy but aggressive, not well liked person, went missing, and when his body was discovered at Clew Bay, the Gardaí declared his death a tragic accident. But his widow, Judith, wasn't convinced and begged Ali to investigate - she was grief stricken and sure it was murder. And when Detective Aidan Cahill - Ali's ex - turned up, telling her she was in danger from criminals he and his team were chasing, and ordering her back to Dublin, she refused. Ali was stubborn like that! With danger coming to both Ali and Gav from two sides, her only contact was one of the local Gardaí, Niamh, who had her back. What would be the outcome from the darkness in this normally peaceful village?
The Clew Bay Detective is 1st in the Wild Atlantic Murders series by Pam Lecky and I really enjoyed it! Both Ali & Gav's characters were well written; Ali is a strong and determined young woman, while Gav's brand of humour lifted Ali's spirits. Entertaining, gritty and tense, humerous in places, grim in others, it's a great start to a new series, and in the cosy genre, which I recommend highly.
With thanks to NetGalley & Storm Publishing for my digital ARC to read and review.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I really hate disliking a book and feeling ranty when it hasn’t even been officially released but I really did not enjoy this book.
Thank you to Storm Publishing and NetGalley for an advance copy.
There were far too many threads going on that really made the plot stilted. There is both the murder mystery and then the gangster case Ali’s ex is working on. Neither plots are woven together very well which results in the book flitting between the two mysteries in a way that makes it feel like there are two differing timelines.
In addition to it feeling like two timelines the tone also couldn’t decide what it was going to be. Sometimes it was a true cozy mystery and other times it felt like a gritty gangster thriller. I think my word for this book was incongruous.
I found myself really nitpicking as I kept reading because so many little things kept adding up. For one thing, there is a kitten introduced within the first couple of chapters and the narrative keeps forgetting the cat exists. At one point Ali has to leave her home for several days and she makes a point to say she needs someone to get the cat before she leaves but then doesn’t do that. And then the cat isn’t mentioned again until she returns to the house and mentions that the cat was left alone the entire time she was gone. This doesn’t change anything about the plot which is why it’s so frustrating that it’s there. There is no point for her to have a cat.
Ali’s age also seems to kind of shift throughout the book (she’s officially 31). She banters with her 19ish year old nephew like they grew up together in one chapter and then in another she’s treated like a geriatric. At one point she’s asked if she and her ex had children together and she wistfully says that it hadn’t happened for them as if she’s a woman on the other side of menopause and not 31.
I also hated the ex. Really hated how much pining there was over him when he seemed like nothing mattered more than his job and his opinions. I could rant for paragraphs about him.
Thank you to Storm Publishing and NetGalley for an advance copy.
There were far too many threads going on that really made the plot stilted. There is both the murder mystery and then the gangster case Ali’s ex is working on. Neither plots are woven together very well which results in the book flitting between the two mysteries in a way that makes it feel like there are two differing timelines.
In addition to it feeling like two timelines the tone also couldn’t decide what it was going to be. Sometimes it was a true cozy mystery and other times it felt like a gritty gangster thriller. I think my word for this book was incongruous.
I found myself really nitpicking as I kept reading because so many little things kept adding up. For one thing, there is a kitten introduced within the first couple of chapters and the narrative keeps forgetting the cat exists. At one point Ali has to leave her home for several days and she makes a point to say she needs someone to get the cat before she leaves but then doesn’t do that. And then the cat isn’t mentioned again until she returns to the house and mentions that the cat was left alone the entire time she was gone. This doesn’t change anything about the plot which is why it’s so frustrating that it’s there. There is no point for her to have a cat.
Ali’s age also seems to kind of shift throughout the book (she’s officially 31). She banters with her 19ish year old nephew like they grew up together in one chapter and then in another she’s treated like a geriatric. At one point she’s asked if she and her ex had children together and she wistfully says that it hadn’t happened for them as if she’s a woman on the other side of menopause and not 31.
I also hated the ex. Really hated how much pining there was over him when he seemed like nothing mattered more than his job and his opinions. I could rant for paragraphs about him.
June 16, 2026
Ali Brennan heads to Glenfinn to set up a new branch of Brennan Landscapes, the business she and her brother Dominic manage as partners. She won't be alone for long, as she rents a bungalow from her cousin Jacinta Burke, who manages a hotel in nearby Westport. Within hours of arriving, Ali agrees to adopt a kitten, and just days later, her nephew Gavan arrives by train to serve as her intern, sent by family in Dublin. Eager to find clients, Ali never expects her first appointment to bring Detective Aidan Cahill back into her life. She also reconnects with two women from her Dublin days: Aidan's former partner and another friend seeking Ali's help to find her missing husband.
A refreshing opening to a new cozy mystery series. I loved that Ali was already a partner in an established business before her move. The author gives equal attention and thought to the profiles of both primary and secondary characters, making them all feel essential to the story. I particularly enjoyed the different relationships in Ali's life—family, clients, and the integration of friendships, past and present.
With my own sleuth mode engaged, I guessed the perpetrator early, brushing aside doubts even as red herrings tried to distract me. However, this didn't lessen my enjoyment—the plot remained engaging and satisfying throughout.
The nuances of the setting descriptions throughout the storyline, from Ali's move from Dublin to a coastal town near Westport and the shifting landscape out to the scattered islands of Clew Bay, add vivid atmosphere and a sense of real place. The authenticity of these scenes stands out, clearly reflecting the author's familiarity with the locations and providing a strong connection to Ali's character and career path throughout the novel.
I'm looking forward to reading more of this series and the author's writing.
Thank you to Pam Lecky, Storm Publishing, and NetGalley for the opportunity to read an eARC of this novel.
A refreshing opening to a new cozy mystery series. I loved that Ali was already a partner in an established business before her move. The author gives equal attention and thought to the profiles of both primary and secondary characters, making them all feel essential to the story. I particularly enjoyed the different relationships in Ali's life—family, clients, and the integration of friendships, past and present.
With my own sleuth mode engaged, I guessed the perpetrator early, brushing aside doubts even as red herrings tried to distract me. However, this didn't lessen my enjoyment—the plot remained engaging and satisfying throughout.
The nuances of the setting descriptions throughout the storyline, from Ali's move from Dublin to a coastal town near Westport and the shifting landscape out to the scattered islands of Clew Bay, add vivid atmosphere and a sense of real place. The authenticity of these scenes stands out, clearly reflecting the author's familiarity with the locations and providing a strong connection to Ali's character and career path throughout the novel.
I'm looking forward to reading more of this series and the author's writing.
Thank you to Pam Lecky, Storm Publishing, and NetGalley for the opportunity to read an eARC of this novel.
July 7, 2026
This was such a weird one.
The start is so strong, we open on the PoV of our murder victim. It leaves us in no doubt that he has been murdered, which is a nice change of pace with these accidents team deaths. The setting is easily the star of the show. The location is full of breathtakingly beautiful views and the author does an amazing job in capturing it. I really felt as if I was on the coast of Ireland while reading this. She also manages to capture the accent and little speaking quirks without distracting from the plot itself which is no mean feat.
Alas, there were moments when I almost wished it did. This book reads as if it can't quite make up its mind. Does it want to be a cosy murder mystery investigating the death on the tiny island in the bay? Or does it want to be a gritty thriller with a mob boss threatening the lives of those close to the main cop chasing him?
Those are the two main plotlines of the book and they really don't mesh well together.
By trying to be both, it ends up being neither, and neither work super well simply because not enough time is spent on either. Indeed there were moments when i found myself flicking back through the book, wondering if my copy was somehow corrupted because the story leapt ahead in a bid to keep both plots going. There were massive jumps with little explanation for them. The book also falls into the trap of telling me the most exciting things instead of showing me. I don't want to be told about a struggle with a weapon after the fact, I want to read it!
The worst thing however is the reveal of the killer and the motive. Not only did it come out of a complete left field but I have major issues with just writing a killer off as mentally unwell, they did jt because they crazy. And the motive... That does not belong in a cosy.
As it stands, I can't see myself continuing this series.
The start is so strong, we open on the PoV of our murder victim. It leaves us in no doubt that he has been murdered, which is a nice change of pace with these accidents team deaths. The setting is easily the star of the show. The location is full of breathtakingly beautiful views and the author does an amazing job in capturing it. I really felt as if I was on the coast of Ireland while reading this. She also manages to capture the accent and little speaking quirks without distracting from the plot itself which is no mean feat.
Alas, there were moments when I almost wished it did. This book reads as if it can't quite make up its mind. Does it want to be a cosy murder mystery investigating the death on the tiny island in the bay? Or does it want to be a gritty thriller with a mob boss threatening the lives of those close to the main cop chasing him?
Those are the two main plotlines of the book and they really don't mesh well together.
By trying to be both, it ends up being neither, and neither work super well simply because not enough time is spent on either. Indeed there were moments when i found myself flicking back through the book, wondering if my copy was somehow corrupted because the story leapt ahead in a bid to keep both plots going. There were massive jumps with little explanation for them. The book also falls into the trap of telling me the most exciting things instead of showing me. I don't want to be told about a struggle with a weapon after the fact, I want to read it!
The worst thing however is the reveal of the killer and the motive. Not only did it come out of a complete left field but I have major issues with just writing a killer off as mentally unwell, they did jt because they crazy. And the motive... That does not belong in a cosy.
As it stands, I can't see myself continuing this series.
September 2, 2026
Originally posted on my blog Nonstop Reader.
The Clew Bay Detectives is the first Wild Atlantic mystery by Pam Lecky. Independently released 16th June 2026 by Storm, it's 316 pages and is available in paperback, audio, and ebook formats. It's worth noting that the ebook format has a handy interactive table of contents as well as interactive links throughout. For Kindle Unlimited subscribers, this book is currently included in the KU subscription library to borrow and read for free.
The author has a solid command of setting, and the wild coastline in Ireland is palpable and as much a driver of the plotline as any of the human characters. There's a brooding tension, and the isolation actually plays a pivotal role in the development of the story.
The amateur sleuth main character is a well regarded professional landscape gardener who makes a move to the coast after the breakdown of her relationship at home in Dublin. She's intelligent and driven, and stubborn to the point of recklessness. Many of the secondary characters are more sketched in than fully developed, but it's a series opener, so there's room for returning development. There are several adjacent story threads, including one nasty organized crime element which means it's a bit thriller-ish for die-hard cozy fans, and a bit cozy for thriller fanatics.
Three and a half stars. It would be a good choice for home library, or buddy read.
Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes.
The Clew Bay Detectives is the first Wild Atlantic mystery by Pam Lecky. Independently released 16th June 2026 by Storm, it's 316 pages and is available in paperback, audio, and ebook formats. It's worth noting that the ebook format has a handy interactive table of contents as well as interactive links throughout. For Kindle Unlimited subscribers, this book is currently included in the KU subscription library to borrow and read for free.
The author has a solid command of setting, and the wild coastline in Ireland is palpable and as much a driver of the plotline as any of the human characters. There's a brooding tension, and the isolation actually plays a pivotal role in the development of the story.
The amateur sleuth main character is a well regarded professional landscape gardener who makes a move to the coast after the breakdown of her relationship at home in Dublin. She's intelligent and driven, and stubborn to the point of recklessness. Many of the secondary characters are more sketched in than fully developed, but it's a series opener, so there's room for returning development. There are several adjacent story threads, including one nasty organized crime element which means it's a bit thriller-ish for die-hard cozy fans, and a bit cozy for thriller fanatics.
Three and a half stars. It would be a good choice for home library, or buddy read.
Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
There’s something instantly inviting about The Clew Bay Detectives—as if the salt‑stung air of Westport drifts straight off the page and settles around you while the mystery quietly tightens its grip. It’s a story that begins with heartbreak and retreat, yet quickly unfurls into something far more tangled, atmospheric, and quietly gripping.
Ali Brennan is such an easy character to root for: bruised but not broken, trying to rebuild her life among the rugged beauty of Ireland’s western coast. That sense of place is one of the novel’s greatest strengths—the wild shoreline, the hush of Clew Bay, the lonely sweep of Doo Lough. It all feels windswept and watchful, as though the landscape itself is keeping secrets.
When the death of wealthy landowner John Clifford‑Murphy is waved away as an accident, Ali’s instinctive unease gives the story its spark. Her reluctant involvement—nudged along by a grieving widow, a charmingly chaotic nephew, and the unwelcome reappearance of her detective ex—creates a lovely blend of tension and warmth. The community’s tight‑lipped resistance adds that delicious small‑town friction, where everyone knows something but no one wants to speak.
As the danger circles closer, the novel shifts into a darker, more urgent register. Ali’s vulnerability is palpable, yet she never loses her quiet resilience, and the final stretch has that satisfying mix of dread, revelation, and emotional payoff.
It’s an atmospheric, character‑led mystery with a strong sense of place—perfect for readers who enjoy their crime fiction with heart, coastline, and a heroine who feels wonderfully real. A cosy‑dark Irish mystery that lingers like sea mist.
With thanks to Pam Lecky, the publisher and netgalley for the ARC
Ali Brennan is such an easy character to root for: bruised but not broken, trying to rebuild her life among the rugged beauty of Ireland’s western coast. That sense of place is one of the novel’s greatest strengths—the wild shoreline, the hush of Clew Bay, the lonely sweep of Doo Lough. It all feels windswept and watchful, as though the landscape itself is keeping secrets.
When the death of wealthy landowner John Clifford‑Murphy is waved away as an accident, Ali’s instinctive unease gives the story its spark. Her reluctant involvement—nudged along by a grieving widow, a charmingly chaotic nephew, and the unwelcome reappearance of her detective ex—creates a lovely blend of tension and warmth. The community’s tight‑lipped resistance adds that delicious small‑town friction, where everyone knows something but no one wants to speak.
As the danger circles closer, the novel shifts into a darker, more urgent register. Ali’s vulnerability is palpable, yet she never loses her quiet resilience, and the final stretch has that satisfying mix of dread, revelation, and emotional payoff.
It’s an atmospheric, character‑led mystery with a strong sense of place—perfect for readers who enjoy their crime fiction with heart, coastline, and a heroine who feels wonderfully real. A cosy‑dark Irish mystery that lingers like sea mist.
With thanks to Pam Lecky, the publisher and netgalley for the ARC
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Who would have thought that a landscaper can moonlight as a detective! Pam Lecky's novel, The Clewbay Detectives follows Ali, who moves to Clewbay, to work on her latest landscaping project. As she settles in to her new life, the town suddenly is abuzz with the news of a missing person. Soon, Ali finds herself working a murder case.
The book is a light read and has cozy mystery vibes. The novel immerses readers in the picturesque Irish landscapes through its descriptive writing. We can almost feel the constant patter of rains and gusty winds as the story unfolds.
The novel takes its time building a vivid sense of place before introducing the mystery, yet the transition feels natural. As the investigation unfolds, the story retains its focus on character dynamics, giving the mystery added depth.
A minor issue I had was that the novel occasionally mentions characters without much initial context, leaving me unsure of their role in Ali's life until later in the story.
Ali is portrayed as a strong-willed and persistent protagonist, preferring to make her own decisions rather than rely on others' guidance. The subtle romantic tension between Ali and her ex, Aidan,was well written. Ali and her nephew Gav were an unexpected duo, and their relationship was particularly endearing to read.
Though the various details in the beginning seem unimportant, they become significant in the end. The mystery unfolds steadily, with well-placed clues and revelations that kept me guessing until the final pages.
This was my first book by this author . Ill definitely be checking out her other books !
Thank you to NetGalley, the publisher, and the author for providing me with an advance review copy of this book. All opinions expressed are my own.
The book is a light read and has cozy mystery vibes. The novel immerses readers in the picturesque Irish landscapes through its descriptive writing. We can almost feel the constant patter of rains and gusty winds as the story unfolds.
The novel takes its time building a vivid sense of place before introducing the mystery, yet the transition feels natural. As the investigation unfolds, the story retains its focus on character dynamics, giving the mystery added depth.
A minor issue I had was that the novel occasionally mentions characters without much initial context, leaving me unsure of their role in Ali's life until later in the story.
Ali is portrayed as a strong-willed and persistent protagonist, preferring to make her own decisions rather than rely on others' guidance. The subtle romantic tension between Ali and her ex, Aidan,was well written. Ali and her nephew Gav were an unexpected duo, and their relationship was particularly endearing to read.
Though the various details in the beginning seem unimportant, they become significant in the end. The mystery unfolds steadily, with well-placed clues and revelations that kept me guessing until the final pages.
This was my first book by this author . Ill definitely be checking out her other books !
Thank you to NetGalley, the publisher, and the author for providing me with an advance review copy of this book. All opinions expressed are my own.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
The Clew Bay Detectives is the debut book in Pam Lecky's The Wild Atlantic Murders series, If you want an exciting roller coaster of a cozy adjacent story you will love this one! The characters are likable and there are two storylines plus a broken relationship to keep it interesting! Ali Brennan is moving to Westport in Ireland to start over and start a new office of the family landscaping business. Her cousin Jacinta lives there and manages an inn and her nephew Gavan (Gav) comes to help with the landscape business. Ali was in a serious relationship with Aiden who is a Police Detective doing special investigations. He was away on a long term assignment so Ali left. She inadvertently comes into contact with a crime boss who Aiden is investigating so he shows up. Having Aiden around wreaks havoc with her emotions. When the crime boss targets both of them, things get dicey. On top of that an unpopular local ends up dead out on a remote island. It looks like an accident but his new wife doesn't think so and wants Ali to find his killer (even though they barely know each other). There is some profanity and mention of rape and abuse but it is a minor part. The characters are interesting and relatable. The mystery is engaging and the pace kept me riveted to see what was going to happen next. This book was hard to put down! I received an advance copy for free from NetGalley and Storm Publishing and I voluntarily leave this review.
#TheClewBayDetectives #TheWildAtlanticMurders #NetGalley #StormPublishing
#TheClewBayDetectives #TheWildAtlanticMurders #NetGalley #StormPublishing
September 8, 2026
I loved Pam Lecky's The Clew Bay Detectives for so many reasons. Firstly, it’s a perfect summer read. Or winter. Autumn? Definitely spring. It’s transportive—from the opening pages, the wild coast of County Mayo immerses you, and it is completely apparent this is a landscape the author knows and loves deeply. You see the shimmering light, the misty seas and smell the morning air, so vividly that the setting is as much a character in The Clew Bay Detectives as the inhabitants of this remote part of Ireland. So even if there weren’t all these intriguing people living there, along with a well-developed and clever who-dunnit, I’d be perfectly satisfied. But wait…there’s more!
Let’s talk about meeting Ali Brennan. A landscape gardener rather than a detective—and very much aware of the distinction—she is nudged, cajoled, and ultimately exasperated into playing sleuth, all while trying to get a business off the ground and avoid thinking about her ex. Her reluctance is entirely believable and never played for giggles; Ali’s down-to-earth, honest, and with an endearing dose of self-doubt that makes her real. Her nephew Gav is a great sidekick, but again, Ms Lecky goes deeper – their relationship is moving and sensitive along with being warm and fuzzy, and they make a great detective duo.
So, I’m off to pre-purchase the next in the series, coming in the Autumn. Highly recommend for cosy mystery readers who love authentic characters in a gorgeous setting.
Let’s talk about meeting Ali Brennan. A landscape gardener rather than a detective—and very much aware of the distinction—she is nudged, cajoled, and ultimately exasperated into playing sleuth, all while trying to get a business off the ground and avoid thinking about her ex. Her reluctance is entirely believable and never played for giggles; Ali’s down-to-earth, honest, and with an endearing dose of self-doubt that makes her real. Her nephew Gav is a great sidekick, but again, Ms Lecky goes deeper – their relationship is moving and sensitive along with being warm and fuzzy, and they make a great detective duo.
So, I’m off to pre-purchase the next in the series, coming in the Autumn. Highly recommend for cosy mystery readers who love authentic characters in a gorgeous setting.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This is a new author and series for me. This was a 3.5 read for me. You actually get a double mystery, a lovely setting in Ireland, and nice family connections. I enjoyed Ali's relationships with her cousin and nephew. I found the mysteries a little on the dark side for a cozy mystery, the MC really has no reason to get involved in the first mystery as she didn't know the victim and only met the wife once, and she doesn't do very much in establishing a branch of her family business which is the reason for her move. The second mystery revolves around her relationship with her ex, a police officer. This was supposed to be a long-term relationship, but I really didn't get a connection between them, it was all odd and very uncomfortable. This was a well written book, but there was a lot of drag time in the middle, and I just didn't really connect with the characters, their motivations, or the relationships beyond family. While there was a resolution to both mysteries, I don't know that they were satisfying for me. Maybe a just a bit too much atmosphere. Thanks to #Netgally, #StormPublishing, and the author for an opportunity to read. #TheClewBayDetectives #TheWildAtlanticMurders #PamLecky #bookreview #bookideas #retiredreader
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thanks to NetGalley, the publisher, and the author for the opportunity to read an advance copy of this book.
I did finish this but didn't enjoy it. The beginning was very slow and repetitive, with almost nothing happening for the first 20% of the book. Ali was so contradictory about everything. For example, when she was at the funeral and told the widow, Judith, to call her anytime, Judith asked to see her afterwards but Ali made a big deal about it and didn't want to. You literally just told her to call you and now you can't be bothered? This happened throughout the story. Aiden tells her not to tell anyone about him or her dad (a former cop), so the first person she sees after he says that (the neighbor), she tells him her life story. Why? Why would you do that?? And why would Judith even ask her to look into John's death and why would Ali agree to it? That made absolutely no sense. She barely even knew Ali. The writing wasn't awful but I always felt like the author didn't know what type of book to write so she threw everything in there. I hated the ending and won't be continuing the series.
I did finish this but didn't enjoy it. The beginning was very slow and repetitive, with almost nothing happening for the first 20% of the book. Ali was so contradictory about everything. For example, when she was at the funeral and told the widow, Judith, to call her anytime, Judith asked to see her afterwards but Ali made a big deal about it and didn't want to. You literally just told her to call you and now you can't be bothered? This happened throughout the story. Aiden tells her not to tell anyone about him or her dad (a former cop), so the first person she sees after he says that (the neighbor), she tells him her life story. Why? Why would you do that?? And why would Judith even ask her to look into John's death and why would Ali agree to it? That made absolutely no sense. She barely even knew Ali. The writing wasn't awful but I always felt like the author didn't know what type of book to write so she threw everything in there. I hated the ending and won't be continuing the series.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
First of a new Wild Atlantic Murders series featuring full time garden designer and part time amateur detective Ali Brennan. After a bad relationship breakup Ali moved to the West of Ireland and the beautiful Clew Bay Area to open a new branch of her family landscape business, alongside her nephew Gavan. There are a lot of Irish colloquialisms used in the book and it was useful having a partner who is from Dublin to translate for me!
Briefly, they quickly find themselves caught up in the death of a local and wealthy business man, whose body was found on a small isolated island. The Gardai believe it was accidental death, from a lack of insulin, but his widow isn’t convinced and for some strange reason asks Ali to look into it. With no apparent suspects Ali and Gav start digging but as they do an unwelcome romantic blast from her past reappears with serious news, putting her life in danger.
The descriptions of the beautiful landscape were very well done giving a great sense of place. Good characters and the small community vibe was good. A well paced and enjoyable cozy crime novel.
Briefly, they quickly find themselves caught up in the death of a local and wealthy business man, whose body was found on a small isolated island. The Gardai believe it was accidental death, from a lack of insulin, but his widow isn’t convinced and for some strange reason asks Ali to look into it. With no apparent suspects Ali and Gav start digging but as they do an unwelcome romantic blast from her past reappears with serious news, putting her life in danger.
The descriptions of the beautiful landscape were very well done giving a great sense of place. Good characters and the small community vibe was good. A well paced and enjoyable cozy crime novel.
July 16, 2026
A wonderful mystery with not a small number as 'wow' moments, not the least at the beginning where we witness a man in serious trouble on a remote island.. however,. Ali Brennan has moved to the west of Ireland to set up a new branch of a landscaping firm. Before long, the body is found. The police consider it to be an accident, but the man's widow calls in Ali to investigate - not because Ali is a detective, but because she is the only person who will help, the deceased being universally disliked. Assuming it is a murder, the list of suspects extends to everyone who knew him and quite a few who didn't. On top of that, Ali is the ex of the policeman who is investigating a notorious and dangerous criminal, and gets swept into danger from the fallout from there.
The book has the atmosphere of western Ireland, thrills and twists and is difficult to put down. It is vaguely reminiscent of the Jane Seymour mysteries, Harry Wild, which is one of my favourite shows, although the heroine is younger and more swept along than in control, but stubborn with it, making it more seat gripping stuff. "No, please don't do that, Ali... oh you just have... argh!"
The book has the atmosphere of western Ireland, thrills and twists and is difficult to put down. It is vaguely reminiscent of the Jane Seymour mysteries, Harry Wild, which is one of my favourite shows, although the heroine is younger and more swept along than in control, but stubborn with it, making it more seat gripping stuff. "No, please don't do that, Ali... oh you just have... argh!"
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
My rating 4.5 stars
The Clew Bay Detectives by Pam Lecky. What a great start to a new series, Pam Lecky is a new to me author but is definitely on my radar now. I enjoyed this book and look forward to book 2. Welcome to Westport, where the wild beauty of Ireland’s western coast hides deadly secrets…
I absolutely loved it, the setting, main characters Ali, Gav and of course Pip the cat. I knew from the first few pages that I would be engrossed in the story, I just couldn’t stop reading. I am eager to read more .
The story is well done and the characters are really a fun bunch.
It was entertaining, full of twists and turns and I did guess whodunnit but that did not distract from the story. I’m sure in the next book character development and plot will improve and I won’t be able to guess.
I recommend this series to all my cozy loving friends and I can’t wait for book 2 to come out!
I requested and received an advanced readers copy from Storm Publishing and NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my OWN.
The Clew Bay Detectives by Pam Lecky. What a great start to a new series, Pam Lecky is a new to me author but is definitely on my radar now. I enjoyed this book and look forward to book 2. Welcome to Westport, where the wild beauty of Ireland’s western coast hides deadly secrets…
I absolutely loved it, the setting, main characters Ali, Gav and of course Pip the cat. I knew from the first few pages that I would be engrossed in the story, I just couldn’t stop reading. I am eager to read more .
The story is well done and the characters are really a fun bunch.
It was entertaining, full of twists and turns and I did guess whodunnit but that did not distract from the story. I’m sure in the next book character development and plot will improve and I won’t be able to guess.
I recommend this series to all my cozy loving friends and I can’t wait for book 2 to come out!
I requested and received an advanced readers copy from Storm Publishing and NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my OWN.
June 16, 2026
I thoroughly enjoyed my first trip to the western shores of Ireland. What landscape gardener Ali Brennan thinks and hopes will be a fresh start, away from the stresses of a recent romantic breakup, doesn’t quite work out the way she envisaged, and she soon finds herself entangled in a twisty murder mystery.
Wealthy businessman John Clifford-Murphy is found dead on a remote island just off the coast at Clew Bay.
Was it an accident? Or was it something more sinister?
While the powers that be appear to be content to call it an unfortunate accident, Ali isn’t quite so sure. And neither is the victim’s widow, pleading with Ali to use her investigative skills to try and uncover the truth.
The setting of the west coast of Ireland made me want to instantly jump on a boat and visit. I loved the variety and depth of characters, seeing how they were all connected to each other as the book unfolded. It certainly kept me turning the pages! And I did, of course, love the introduction of Pip to the storyline – Ali’s new kitten! Five stars from me.
Roll on the next one!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Pam Lecky is starting a new cozy mystery series known as “The Wild Atlantic Murders”. “The Clew Bay Detectives” is the first edition in this series. So, in this oversaturated market, how does Ms. Lecky do? Quite well, actually.
First, the opening scene plays out more like a mystery/thriller. And there are several moments that felt that way throughout this novel. The mystery is really good. The situation seems impossible at times. The interaction between the characters lends itself to make you want to visit them again to see where things progress.
The only thing that made me sort of pause was that I am not used to curse words being used in cozies for the most part. There is a scene at the very end of the book where they flow. And to be quite honest, they served no purpose to me. But maybe that is just me.
Such an easy read. I breezed through this on the day that I received it.
Thank you to NetGalley and the Publisher for providing an ARC for an unbiased review.
First, the opening scene plays out more like a mystery/thriller. And there are several moments that felt that way throughout this novel. The mystery is really good. The situation seems impossible at times. The interaction between the characters lends itself to make you want to visit them again to see where things progress.
The only thing that made me sort of pause was that I am not used to curse words being used in cozies for the most part. There is a scene at the very end of the book where they flow. And to be quite honest, they served no purpose to me. But maybe that is just me.
Such an easy read. I breezed through this on the day that I received it.
Thank you to NetGalley and the Publisher for providing an ARC for an unbiased review.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I really enjoy this author’s books and was very excited to see this mystery, first in a really promising series set on Ireland’s western coast near Galway. Ali has moved from Dublin to expand her landscaping and gardening business and try to restart after a very hard break up. The death of a deeply disliked local man and bad news from her ex, a police detective, soon start to keep her busy. The writing is excellent and characters very relatable, as always with Ms. Lecky. The mysteries themselves are compelling, and the setting is also a treat, particularly for readers who have been to that area and can picture the scenery. There were a couple of very minor plot points that didn’t quite work for me, but they didn’t detract from my enjoyment. I’m very much looking forward to the next in the series. Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an advance copy. All views are entirely my own and offered voluntarily.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
The Clew Bay Detectives is the first in a new mystery series by Pam Lecky. Pam Lecky is a new author to me, so I was excited to give this book a try. It was a really good book and I will definitely be reading more Ms. Lecky’s books. I really enjoyed the setting of County Mayo in Ireland and there was a fun mix of characters to get to know. Ali is a great lead character and it was interesting to get to know her a little. The mystery had plenty of twists and turns and lots of suspects and the secondary mystery involving Ali’s ex-boyfriend did too. I enjoyed figuring the mystery out along with the characters and getting to know a little bit about this corner of Ireland. I am looking forward to reading more about Ali and Aidan and their friends and to see how their relationship develops and changes.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for allowing me to read this book. All opinions are my own.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for allowing me to read this book. All opinions are my own.
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