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County Cork Mystery #4
A Turn for the Bad
The New York Times bestselling author of An Early Wake returns to Ireland where Sullivan’s Pub owner Maura Donovan gets mixed up with smugglers.
After calling Ireland home for six months, Boston expat Maura Donovan still has a lot to learn about Irish ways—and Sullivan’s Pub is her classroom. Maura didn’t only inherit a business, she inherited a tight-knit community. And when a tragedy strikes, it’s the talk of the pub. A local farmer, out for a stroll on the beach with his young son, has mysteriously disappeared. Did he drown? Kill himself? The child can say only that he saw a boat.
Everyone from the local gardai to the Coast Guard is scouring the Cork coast, but when a body is finally brought ashore, it’s the wrong man. An accidental drowning or something more sinister? Trusting the words of the boy and listening to the suspicions of her employee Mick that the missing farmer might have run afoul of smugglers, Maura decides to investigate the deserted coves and isolated inlets for herself. But this time she may be getting in over her head...
After calling Ireland home for six months, Boston expat Maura Donovan still has a lot to learn about Irish ways—and Sullivan’s Pub is her classroom. Maura didn’t only inherit a business, she inherited a tight-knit community. And when a tragedy strikes, it’s the talk of the pub. A local farmer, out for a stroll on the beach with his young son, has mysteriously disappeared. Did he drown? Kill himself? The child can say only that he saw a boat.
Everyone from the local gardai to the Coast Guard is scouring the Cork coast, but when a body is finally brought ashore, it’s the wrong man. An accidental drowning or something more sinister? Trusting the words of the boy and listening to the suspicions of her employee Mick that the missing farmer might have run afoul of smugglers, Maura decides to investigate the deserted coves and isolated inlets for herself. But this time she may be getting in over her head...
293 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published February 2, 2016
273 people are currently reading
906 people want to read
About the author
Sheila Connolly
65 books1,389 followersSheila Connolly taught art history, structured and marketed municipal bonds for major cities, worked as a staff member on two statewide political campaigns, and served as a fundraiser for several non-profit organizations. She also managed her own consulting company providing genealogical research services.
She was a member of Sisters in Crime-New England (president 2011), the national Sisters in Crime, and the fabulous on-line SinC chapter, the Guppies. She also belonged to Romance Writers of America and Mystery Writers of America.
Sheila was Regent of her local DAR chapter, and a member of the Society of Mayflower Descendants. She was also the grandchild of Irish immigrants. In addition to genealogy, Sheila loved restoring old houses, visiting cemeteries, and traveling.
She was a member of Sisters in Crime-New England (president 2011), the national Sisters in Crime, and the fabulous on-line SinC chapter, the Guppies. She also belonged to Romance Writers of America and Mystery Writers of America.
Sheila was Regent of her local DAR chapter, and a member of the Society of Mayflower Descendants. She was also the grandchild of Irish immigrants. In addition to genealogy, Sheila loved restoring old houses, visiting cemeteries, and traveling.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 232 reviews
August 3, 2016
*2.5*
I'm still lukewarm on this series. There was a lot of repetition while Maura figured out what was going on:
Person 1 - There's smuggling in Cork.
Person 2 - Smuggling has been known to happen off the shores of Cork.
Person 3 - I've been involved in some smuggling here in Cork.
Person 4 - The gardá are investigating possible smuggling. Nearby. Off the shores. Of CORK.
Maura - Billy! Does smuggling ever happen here? In Cork? It does?! WHAT. Mick, Persons 1-5 told me about...smuggling. Have you ever heard about that? You have?! I don't know if I believe this. Let me ask four more people.
For heaven's sake.
Once the whole story comes out, things pick up, but I doubt many people would have the patience necessary to sift through all the filler.
Also, for a woman who's lived in Ireland for as many months as she has, it's ridiculous that she has no idea how to work her stove, has no clue where her firewood and peat are kept, doesn't know what's in the upstairs rooms of her building...come on, now. Does she need a gilded invitation to explore her own home and business?
Come to think on it, perhaps I'm not so lukewarm about the whole thing overall. It's time Maura and I bid farewell.
Before she finds a po under the bed and asks 45 people to identify it for her.
I'm still lukewarm on this series. There was a lot of repetition while Maura figured out what was going on:
Person 1 - There's smuggling in Cork.
Person 2 - Smuggling has been known to happen off the shores of Cork.
Person 3 - I've been involved in some smuggling here in Cork.
Person 4 - The gardá are investigating possible smuggling. Nearby. Off the shores. Of CORK.
Maura - Billy! Does smuggling ever happen here? In Cork? It does?! WHAT. Mick, Persons 1-5 told me about...smuggling. Have you ever heard about that? You have?! I don't know if I believe this. Let me ask four more people.
For heaven's sake.
Once the whole story comes out, things pick up, but I doubt many people would have the patience necessary to sift through all the filler.
Also, for a woman who's lived in Ireland for as many months as she has, it's ridiculous that she has no idea how to work her stove, has no clue where her firewood and peat are kept, doesn't know what's in the upstairs rooms of her building...come on, now. Does she need a gilded invitation to explore her own home and business?
Come to think on it, perhaps I'm not so lukewarm about the whole thing overall. It's time Maura and I bid farewell.
Before she finds a po under the bed and asks 45 people to identify it for her.
February 5, 2016
Dollycas’s Thoughts
I couldn’t wait to return to Ireland and Sullivan’s Pub. In this 4th book, Maura just blooms. People are coming to the pub to await news about a local farmer that has gone missing. He was walking on the beach with his 4 year old son when he disappeared. All the little boy can offer is that he saw a boat. The sea has taken many men, did it take this man too?
As the days go by and she listens to the people around her, including the farmer’s brother, she starts to realize what may have happened. She decides to do a bit of investigating to see if what she is thinking could have happened, and if it did, is there any way to save the man and bring him back from his family.
Like An Early Wake, this story has a slow build to draw us in and lets us get to know these very appealing characters. Gillian who usually summers in the area is back due do some upheaval in her life and she moves in with Maura and they become very close. They are also great sounding boards for each other. Maura meets several new people too and learns all about true Irish Whiskey. It is these new people that help her test her theory of what happened to the farmer. There is just a bit of romance too. Both Maura and Gillian are trying to sort out their hearts.
About midway through the book the suspense ratchets up as a plan starts to come together. At this point the book became glued to my hands and the pages turned much faster. Again we see that crime can be anywhere, even in County Cork. The area around Leap seems to be a prime area for an unsavory time-honored tradition and we find out about it right along with Maura.
This is my favorite book is the series so far. I loved the suspense and the way the author set the groundwork. I loved the humor as Maura learns more about the area, the pub and even her home. I especially enjoy the community feel of Sullivan’s Pub, the way people gather in good times and when things taken A Turn For The Bad. This was an absolutely wonderful read. I want to book my next escape to Ireland today!
I couldn’t wait to return to Ireland and Sullivan’s Pub. In this 4th book, Maura just blooms. People are coming to the pub to await news about a local farmer that has gone missing. He was walking on the beach with his 4 year old son when he disappeared. All the little boy can offer is that he saw a boat. The sea has taken many men, did it take this man too?
As the days go by and she listens to the people around her, including the farmer’s brother, she starts to realize what may have happened. She decides to do a bit of investigating to see if what she is thinking could have happened, and if it did, is there any way to save the man and bring him back from his family.
Like An Early Wake, this story has a slow build to draw us in and lets us get to know these very appealing characters. Gillian who usually summers in the area is back due do some upheaval in her life and she moves in with Maura and they become very close. They are also great sounding boards for each other. Maura meets several new people too and learns all about true Irish Whiskey. It is these new people that help her test her theory of what happened to the farmer. There is just a bit of romance too. Both Maura and Gillian are trying to sort out their hearts.
About midway through the book the suspense ratchets up as a plan starts to come together. At this point the book became glued to my hands and the pages turned much faster. Again we see that crime can be anywhere, even in County Cork. The area around Leap seems to be a prime area for an unsavory time-honored tradition and we find out about it right along with Maura.
This is my favorite book is the series so far. I loved the suspense and the way the author set the groundwork. I loved the humor as Maura learns more about the area, the pub and even her home. I especially enjoy the community feel of Sullivan’s Pub, the way people gather in good times and when things taken A Turn For The Bad. This was an absolutely wonderful read. I want to book my next escape to Ireland today!
March 12, 2016
This would've easily been a 5 star book if not for 2 things: endless repetition of all the story's details every couple of pages and the ridiculous rescue plot.
This series has always had a lot of internal dialogue to it, but it just seemed to make this book drag. It added nothing to the story and felt like filler. In fact, I skipped 2 or 3 chapters in the middle because the story just wasn't moving along.
The plot to rescue the missing farmer nearly made me stop reading the book. Seriously? As a plot device, it stinks. Just implausible and ridiculous.
Overall, not a terrible book, but this series definitely needs to move a few plot lines forward (can we do away with the the whole Mick/Sean/Clueless Maura thing now, please??)
This series has always had a lot of internal dialogue to it, but it just seemed to make this book drag. It added nothing to the story and felt like filler. In fact, I skipped 2 or 3 chapters in the middle because the story just wasn't moving along.
The plot to rescue the missing farmer nearly made me stop reading the book. Seriously? As a plot device, it stinks. Just implausible and ridiculous.
Overall, not a terrible book, but this series definitely needs to move a few plot lines forward (can we do away with the the whole Mick/Sean/Clueless Maura thing now, please??)
February 16, 2016
This series continues to be delightful as Maura continues to learn about Irish customs when a dairyman Disappears while taking his 3-year-old son on a walk on a nearby beach.Sullivans becomes the to place for people to get information on the search. Maura learns about minor smuggling that the locals overlook. Winter is coming on and Maura needs to learn about heating her cottage. Gillian has returned to Leaf and is staying. Gillian has secret. How these problems play out will keep you turning the pages.
February 10, 2016
I still don't like Maura- it's neverending "in Boston everyone is so busy/so violent/drugs/alcohol/no one cares about anyone", on and on. We get it- Boston is big and you are in a tiny town. HOWEVER: I love everyone else so much that I am totally willing to overlook her annoying repetition to spend some more time in Sullivan's! This is an interesting crime, and it is finally starting to show that small towns aren't as self-contained as you think. Wonderful cozy!
February 2, 2016
Author Sheila Connolly has once again pulled me in with her masterful storytelling.
After reading A TURN FOR THE BAD, it’s plain to see why author Connolly is a New York Times Bestselling Author. I’m a fan of both her Orchard, and Museum Mysteries. But her County Cork series is a style all its own.
A great cozy, yet different from your average cozy mystery stories, A TURN FOR THE BAD, set in County Cork, Ireland, finds American protagonist Maura Donovan involved in a strange mystery when one man disappears, and another is found dead. The subject of smuggling comes into the story, and makes for a very exciting twist. Also, Maura finds out something about one of her friends that could ruin more than one friendship.
An amazing story, magnificently written, I finished this book in a matter of hours. Every paragraph I read felt more and more like I was play a part in a phenomenal story worthy of not just the printed word, but a classic mystery film.
All I can say is, Ms. Connolly, you have a lifelong fan in me!
After reading A TURN FOR THE BAD, it’s plain to see why author Connolly is a New York Times Bestselling Author. I’m a fan of both her Orchard, and Museum Mysteries. But her County Cork series is a style all its own.
A great cozy, yet different from your average cozy mystery stories, A TURN FOR THE BAD, set in County Cork, Ireland, finds American protagonist Maura Donovan involved in a strange mystery when one man disappears, and another is found dead. The subject of smuggling comes into the story, and makes for a very exciting twist. Also, Maura finds out something about one of her friends that could ruin more than one friendship.
An amazing story, magnificently written, I finished this book in a matter of hours. Every paragraph I read felt more and more like I was play a part in a phenomenal story worthy of not just the printed word, but a classic mystery film.
All I can say is, Ms. Connolly, you have a lifelong fan in me!
November 15, 2019
Another enjoyable entry in this cozy mystery series set in Ireland. Recommended for cozy fans.
September 19, 2018
In the last book, we found out Maura doesn't like music (amongst a slew of other things, though she seems to be changing her tune, pun intended, after cashing in big on a musical event). In "A Turn for the Bad", the reader learns she doesn't like walks along the shore or swimming, all before Chapter One ends. Is there anything she does like to do, aside from worrying and complaining? Little wonder she has no friends. And she treats Gillian, the one person trying to forge a friendship with her, to her snide and grouchy personality in response, unexpected after Maura offered Gillian a place to stay. I can't figure out why TWO men are interested in winning Maura's affections.
Unfortunately in this book, Sheila Connolly becomes one of those authors that belittles all churchgoing people as judgmental. Doesn't that make her, well, a little judgmental? Irony anyone? Look, I have no problem with Gillian's parents (churchgoers) being portrayed as judgmental, but why couch the conversation in language which implies all churchgoers are judgmental?
Sloppy writing on page 70 where Conor is taking a drink from his pint before Maura slides it across the bar to him. I also remember another spot where Gillian is referred to as Bridget. Ms. Connolly needs to find a better editor because these kind of mistakes seem to happen in every book.
Maura is always having to remind herself how small Ireland is, amongst other mental laments torturing her mind over three, now four, books. Yawn. The repetition is getting really annoying. And there's a lot of sitting around with nothing going on in this book. Too much telling and not enough showing, especially regarding the big showdown at the end.
According to Maura and her friends, the gardai don't know John Tully may be on the smugglers' boat. Really? Then they must be pretty dumb if it's not even considered a possibility. And the whole rescue scenario was completely implausible. Not to mention, I'm still trying to figure out how Maura is deemed the hero when she wasn't even around to help rescue John Tully. Simply because she figures out the obvious (as the gardai should have done)? If so, there must be a lot of dense people in the area. And are they so lacking in initiative only Maura's presence will exhort them to put their minds to the problem of John's disappearance?
A cast of likeable secondary characters (Gillian, Rose, Bridget, Old Billy) keeps the book's rating from dropping to one star. Having such an unlikeable main character, however, tends to bring the rating down. I'm thinking I need to space my reading of this series further apart. Maura is just too annoying otherwise.
Unfortunately in this book, Sheila Connolly becomes one of those authors that belittles all churchgoing people as judgmental. Doesn't that make her, well, a little judgmental? Irony anyone? Look, I have no problem with Gillian's parents (churchgoers) being portrayed as judgmental, but why couch the conversation in language which implies all churchgoers are judgmental?
Sloppy writing on page 70 where Conor is taking a drink from his pint before Maura slides it across the bar to him. I also remember another spot where Gillian is referred to as Bridget. Ms. Connolly needs to find a better editor because these kind of mistakes seem to happen in every book.
Maura is always having to remind herself how small Ireland is, amongst other mental laments torturing her mind over three, now four, books. Yawn. The repetition is getting really annoying. And there's a lot of sitting around with nothing going on in this book. Too much telling and not enough showing, especially regarding the big showdown at the end.
According to Maura and her friends, the gardai don't know John Tully may be on the smugglers' boat. Really? Then they must be pretty dumb if it's not even considered a possibility. And the whole rescue scenario was completely implausible. Not to mention, I'm still trying to figure out how Maura is deemed the hero when she wasn't even around to help rescue John Tully. Simply because she figures out the obvious (as the gardai should have done)? If so, there must be a lot of dense people in the area. And are they so lacking in initiative only Maura's presence will exhort them to put their minds to the problem of John's disappearance?
A cast of likeable secondary characters (Gillian, Rose, Bridget, Old Billy) keeps the book's rating from dropping to one star. Having such an unlikeable main character, however, tends to bring the rating down. I'm thinking I need to space my reading of this series further apart. Maura is just too annoying otherwise.
March 21, 2018
Well, Maura certainly is settling into Sullivan’s and the Leap community. I am so very much enjoying going along with her as she figures out who she wants to be. I suspect the folks who think of Sullivan’s as their pub will continue to find her fascinating.
April 4, 2017
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May 27, 2017
4.5
Review at Cozy Girl Reads
Looking forward to the next one.
Review at Cozy Girl Reads
Looking forward to the next one.
August 1, 2017
I really enjoy this series! Maura is a very real character and I love watching her as she is finding her way in Ireland. This story was interesting as she learned more about the criminal aspect of Ireland and that it's not all idyllic. I also enjoy the supporting characters and can't wait to see what happens next.
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July 16, 2016Smuggling In Cork County
This series continues to be delightful as Maura continues to learn about Irish customs when a dairyman is missing. He took his you son on a walk on a beach near his farm and disappears. Sullivans become the place where everyone gathers to hear the news on the search. Winter is coming and Maura needs to learn about heating her cottage. She has a guest, Gillian who has a secret. How these problems played out will keep turning the pages. This my series by this author.
This series continues to be delightful as Maura continues to learn about Irish customs when a dairyman is missing. He took his you son on a walk on a beach near his farm and disappears. Sullivans become the place where everyone gathers to hear the news on the search. Winter is coming and Maura needs to learn about heating her cottage. She has a guest, Gillian who has a secret. How these problems played out will keep turning the pages. This my series by this author.
April 7, 2020
This was not my favorite of the series (a little more gruesome, a bit more "let's get into trouble" murder solving" ... but it still is some of my favorite cozy characters, scenery, and Irish charm I love this series, and will read it again!
April 28, 2020
Maura Donovan has spent 6 months in Ireland after inheriting Sullivan's Pub and a house. Much to her surprise she's starting to feel at least a little bit at home. She's running the pub and has made friends with a few people. But there's part of her that is still unsettled and trying to figure out things. She still hasn't gotten a full handle on the ins and outs of the pub and hasn't figured out how to turn on the heat in her house.
But these little things take a back seat when a local farmer disappears leaving his young son alone on a beach. From all accounts, John Tully would never just up and abandon his life or son. But the son's description of his father being taken by pirates isn't taken seriously because of the boy's age.
Maura and the rest of the townsfolk are drawn into the story over their concern for their neighbor. However, Maura is at first on the outside looking in. There's nothing for her to do, so she's left to run her days as usual. There's the pub to look after but she's got to deal with figuring out what to do about the two men who are interested in her, deal with her artist friend Gillian who shows up with a surprise bit of news and there's the liquor salesman coming around trying to get her to buy some of his whiskey.
But as little bits of news make their way to Maura, she begins to wonder just what is going on with John Tully's disappearance. As she starts to learn more about the history of Ireland's coastal issues, newly revealed information about a co-worker startles her and she starts to put together what might just have led to Tully's disappearance. Soon, she's convinced that not only is Tully alive but might need to be rescued before anyone else will make a move to save him.
I decided to read this book because I learned of the author's passing last week. Sheila Connolly's death is a big loss to the mystery community. In this book, she takes readers through a bit of Irish history with the information about the coastal issues the country has. But on a less intense note, we also learn a little about the process of whiskey making.
Maura Donovan remains a complex character. She's kind of fallen into a life she never expected. While this should make her happy, the life she led up to this point leaves her more than a bit gunshy about embracing this new life.
But I like the slow build being done here. Maybe she'll get to a point where she accepts her new life in full but maybe she won't. But along the way, there's some intriguing mysteries to be dealt with and I have to say that I really liked how this book's plot unfolded.
But these little things take a back seat when a local farmer disappears leaving his young son alone on a beach. From all accounts, John Tully would never just up and abandon his life or son. But the son's description of his father being taken by pirates isn't taken seriously because of the boy's age.
Maura and the rest of the townsfolk are drawn into the story over their concern for their neighbor. However, Maura is at first on the outside looking in. There's nothing for her to do, so she's left to run her days as usual. There's the pub to look after but she's got to deal with figuring out what to do about the two men who are interested in her, deal with her artist friend Gillian who shows up with a surprise bit of news and there's the liquor salesman coming around trying to get her to buy some of his whiskey.
But as little bits of news make their way to Maura, she begins to wonder just what is going on with John Tully's disappearance. As she starts to learn more about the history of Ireland's coastal issues, newly revealed information about a co-worker startles her and she starts to put together what might just have led to Tully's disappearance. Soon, she's convinced that not only is Tully alive but might need to be rescued before anyone else will make a move to save him.
I decided to read this book because I learned of the author's passing last week. Sheila Connolly's death is a big loss to the mystery community. In this book, she takes readers through a bit of Irish history with the information about the coastal issues the country has. But on a less intense note, we also learn a little about the process of whiskey making.
Maura Donovan remains a complex character. She's kind of fallen into a life she never expected. While this should make her happy, the life she led up to this point leaves her more than a bit gunshy about embracing this new life.
But I like the slow build being done here. Maybe she'll get to a point where she accepts her new life in full but maybe she won't. But along the way, there's some intriguing mysteries to be dealt with and I have to say that I really liked how this book's plot unfolded.
February 1, 2016
A Turn For The Bad is the fourth book in the A County Cork Mystery series.
I love all of Sheila Connolly's books and this series is particularly enjoyable for me. Not only does the author provide the reader with an enjoyable cast of interesting character, but also provides us with an interesting look at the culture of Ireland and it's people and living conditions.
Maura Sullivan is adjusting well to her relocation to Ireland and being the owner of a local pub. She soon learns just how much she has become attached to the little community of Leap. A local dairy farmer, John Tully, is kidnapped while taking a walk on the beach with his young son. The police and Coast Guard begin a search for Tully or, at least, his body. Maura, at this point, feels compelled to find out what happened to Tully. Even though she didn't know him personally.
After about a week of searching, the police have decided to end the search for Tully. At this time, Sean, a local policeman and Maura's friend, asks her to be on the look out for any strange people in the area, as it is thought that there are smuggler's in the area that could be dangerous. When Maura learns that there's a possibility that Tully may be alive, she enlists the help of some of the local men to attempt a daring rescue and to provide a very exciting ending for the book.
I love all of Sheila Connolly's books and this series is particularly enjoyable for me. Not only does the author provide the reader with an enjoyable cast of interesting character, but also provides us with an interesting look at the culture of Ireland and it's people and living conditions.
Maura Sullivan is adjusting well to her relocation to Ireland and being the owner of a local pub. She soon learns just how much she has become attached to the little community of Leap. A local dairy farmer, John Tully, is kidnapped while taking a walk on the beach with his young son. The police and Coast Guard begin a search for Tully or, at least, his body. Maura, at this point, feels compelled to find out what happened to Tully. Even though she didn't know him personally.
After about a week of searching, the police have decided to end the search for Tully. At this time, Sean, a local policeman and Maura's friend, asks her to be on the look out for any strange people in the area, as it is thought that there are smuggler's in the area that could be dangerous. When Maura learns that there's a possibility that Tully may be alive, she enlists the help of some of the local men to attempt a daring rescue and to provide a very exciting ending for the book.
May 19, 2020
Reading this novel felt as bittersweet as reading Sue Grafton's "Y." Although I'm now halfway through the "County Cork" series, it is the first book in the series that I picked up to read after learning of Sheila Connolly's death on April 20, 2020. I have loved this series since the first pages as I read that Maura Donovan would travel from South Boston, Massachusetts to Ireland honoring her grandmother's last wish to tell the friends she'd left behind that she was gone. I've always wanted to travel to Ireland so this cozy mystery series fulfills a travel dream in the loveliest way with my reader's passport.
As with many series, the novels can be read as a stand-alone but I couldn't possibly recommend it. It's been simply grand to watch the progression of Maura from being a stranger in the small town of Leap, County of Cork to becoming owner of Sullivan’s Pub and building not only relationships with her staff and customers but becoming a respected member of the community. Maura has now been in Ireland for 6 months and now acquaintances are becoming friends which is a new experience for Maura as in South Boston she was either going to school or working as a bartender and waitress and her friendship was with her grandmother.
I love the character of Old Billy who resides in one end of the building of Sullivan's Pub, visits the pub daily, enjoys his pints, has a designated armchair by the fireplace that doesn't even need signage but is always left empty for his arrival and can tell a story like no one else especially as he knows the history of Ireland, his town, and the pub as well as the local gossip.
It made me laugh to know Maura's head was spinning not only from taste tests of Irish whiskey but also the history of it all. There is a difficult part of the storyline for me to believe as even remotely possible as sleuth Maura orchestrates a daring investigation team of her own to solve a missing person's case but this is fiction and anything is possible.
In addition to a short introduction to Sheila on the author's website http://sheilaconnolly.com/sheila.php I loved discovery of the interview entitled, "What Are You Like? Sheila Connolly" in "Irish America" by Patricia Harty, Editor-in-Chief in June/July 2018. https://irishamerica.com/2018/05/what...
As with many series, the novels can be read as a stand-alone but I couldn't possibly recommend it. It's been simply grand to watch the progression of Maura from being a stranger in the small town of Leap, County of Cork to becoming owner of Sullivan’s Pub and building not only relationships with her staff and customers but becoming a respected member of the community. Maura has now been in Ireland for 6 months and now acquaintances are becoming friends which is a new experience for Maura as in South Boston she was either going to school or working as a bartender and waitress and her friendship was with her grandmother.
I love the character of Old Billy who resides in one end of the building of Sullivan's Pub, visits the pub daily, enjoys his pints, has a designated armchair by the fireplace that doesn't even need signage but is always left empty for his arrival and can tell a story like no one else especially as he knows the history of Ireland, his town, and the pub as well as the local gossip.
It made me laugh to know Maura's head was spinning not only from taste tests of Irish whiskey but also the history of it all. There is a difficult part of the storyline for me to believe as even remotely possible as sleuth Maura orchestrates a daring investigation team of her own to solve a missing person's case but this is fiction and anything is possible.
In addition to a short introduction to Sheila on the author's website http://sheilaconnolly.com/sheila.php I loved discovery of the interview entitled, "What Are You Like? Sheila Connolly" in "Irish America" by Patricia Harty, Editor-in-Chief in June/July 2018. https://irishamerica.com/2018/05/what...
February 22, 2018
This is a great series and everytime I read a book in the series I want to move to Ireland. But I did have a hard time relating to this book. Maura owns the pub Sullivans and when word gets out that a local farmer disappears while walking on the beach with his young son that is all everyone at the pub is talking about. The local gardi and coast guard can't seem to find any sign of him and when Maura starts hearing rumors of drug smugglers she decides to investigate with the help of her friends. Sheila's books are always entertaining and full of Irish history. They are full of great characters that makes you want to have a 'pint' with them and the way she describes the area you can close your eyes and be there. But I did have a hard time believing that the main character could come up with a way to find the guy that the gardi and coast guard couldn't. A little unbelievable and out of character for me.
April 24, 2022
This series is getting so soapy but I’m just sitting here letting it happen to me.
This installment has probably my favourite scene in the series so far. To avoid spoilers, Mick quite sporadically divulges some information that suddenly gives his character so much depth that has, until now, been nonexistent in the series. There were hints about it in the earlier novels, but the author waited until book four to drop the bomb, which I think screams confidence in her own craft.
The slow progression in this series would make for really good television. I wouldn’t really want that to happen, but I’m trying be neutral here.
Also Mick might be my 2022 Man of the Year. I’m sticking a pin in it.
This installment has probably my favourite scene in the series so far. To avoid spoilers, Mick quite sporadically divulges some information that suddenly gives his character so much depth that has, until now, been nonexistent in the series. There were hints about it in the earlier novels, but the author waited until book four to drop the bomb, which I think screams confidence in her own craft.
The slow progression in this series would make for really good television. I wouldn’t really want that to happen, but I’m trying be neutral here.
Also Mick might be my 2022 Man of the Year. I’m sticking a pin in it.
January 15, 2020
2020 bk 20. Maura is settling more into her role as publican, and a publican who can keep her mouth closed when needed. When a man goes missing, hers is one of the pubs where people come to wait and to hear news, and when the time comes, a spoken word that can save a man's life. Along the way, Maura learns more than she realized she needed to know about Irish whiskeys and the growth of the industry in County Cork. She also gains a house guest as Gillian, her friend the artist shows up sans home and with a surprise for Harry. A good read. I just needed rain to complete the weather in the book - and that showed up for the finishing chapters.
October 27, 2021
Maura is beginning to settle into her role as owner of Sullivan's pub. A man goes missing and his son is found in one of the coves. While much smuggling goes on, this man was just an honest farmer, and the only logical explanation is that he stumbled across something he should not have seen. A man's body turns up, but it is not this man. Can the garda find him? WIll Maura and her friends lend a hand? I enjoyed listening to this installment of the series. I enjoyed it more than previous ones.
June 24, 2025
Maura is owner of Sullivans, a pub she inherited. She worked hard to help a missing man.
March 19, 2017
Altro bel libro di questa serie ambientata in Irlanda. Trovo solo irreale che, alla fine, la protagonista e un gruppetto di suoi amici riescano a salvare un uomo rapito da dei trafficanti di droga, senza ricevere neanche un graffio... Oltretutto, non è che la polizia locale ci faccia una bella figura...
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 12, 2016
Sheila Connolly's latest book in the County Cork Mystery series, A Turn for the Bad is an example of what a good cozy should be. The author chooses Ireland for the setting of this series and readers are not only hot on the heels of a mystery but also immersed in the culture and history of the country. Connolly proves why she is a New York Times Bestseller with an intriguing look into smuggling and Irish Whiskey. This is a very good addition to this unique cozy mystery series!
What I liked:
Shelia Connolly knows how to set a scene. When she first came out with the County Cork series, I wasn't too sold on the idea until I started reading. Most cozies are generally set in the US but I hope the change of local is something that will become a trend because I think Connolly shows that it can be very interesting for the reader. Ireland is one of those countries that has such a old world feel to it. The pacing of life is different and what matters to these characters might seem uncommon or unusual to us. That gives the series a rare sort of atmosphere that is addictive.
In A Turn for the Bad readers are introduced to the idea of smuggling and how it is being played out on the Irish coast. I thought this was a really unique premise for a cozy and Connolly does a wonderful job with it. Makes me think of pirates and the like... lol! As the clues began to turn up and Maura begins to investigate the reader will become more and more intrigued. I wasn't sure that Maura had a real reason to investigate this one since she didn't know the missing farmer personally. But she started piecing it together a little at a time and just couldn't stop herself. It made for a different kind of cozy that I liked a lot.
Sullivan's Pub might as well be a character unto itself. This is a great gathering place for this tight knit Irish community and liked seeing all of the interactions between the characters in this setting. It's basically the local hang out and it was perfect for lots of jigsawing about what was going on in this mystery. Wish we had a place like this around here. Maura meets several new characters in this book, that I hope will become regulars at the pub. It's always great adding new faces to the guest list.
What I didn't like:
This one has a bit of a slow start. Readers who are looking for that murder right off that bat, will have to wait a bit for the scenarios to play out. I would definitely not say the beginning was boring, it was just slow to heat up. It didn't bother me but it could turn some readers off. When the action does get going, it takes off like wildfire.
Bottom Line:
This is a great series. It's unique. It's different and Connolly goes the extra mile to make it authentic and credible, right down to the whiskey. It started out a little slow but that's not a deal breaker. It certainly made up for it in the end. Maura is a great cozy heroine and I can't wait to see what she gets into next.
What I liked:
Shelia Connolly knows how to set a scene. When she first came out with the County Cork series, I wasn't too sold on the idea until I started reading. Most cozies are generally set in the US but I hope the change of local is something that will become a trend because I think Connolly shows that it can be very interesting for the reader. Ireland is one of those countries that has such a old world feel to it. The pacing of life is different and what matters to these characters might seem uncommon or unusual to us. That gives the series a rare sort of atmosphere that is addictive.
In A Turn for the Bad readers are introduced to the idea of smuggling and how it is being played out on the Irish coast. I thought this was a really unique premise for a cozy and Connolly does a wonderful job with it. Makes me think of pirates and the like... lol! As the clues began to turn up and Maura begins to investigate the reader will become more and more intrigued. I wasn't sure that Maura had a real reason to investigate this one since she didn't know the missing farmer personally. But she started piecing it together a little at a time and just couldn't stop herself. It made for a different kind of cozy that I liked a lot.
Sullivan's Pub might as well be a character unto itself. This is a great gathering place for this tight knit Irish community and liked seeing all of the interactions between the characters in this setting. It's basically the local hang out and it was perfect for lots of jigsawing about what was going on in this mystery. Wish we had a place like this around here. Maura meets several new characters in this book, that I hope will become regulars at the pub. It's always great adding new faces to the guest list.
What I didn't like:
This one has a bit of a slow start. Readers who are looking for that murder right off that bat, will have to wait a bit for the scenarios to play out. I would definitely not say the beginning was boring, it was just slow to heat up. It didn't bother me but it could turn some readers off. When the action does get going, it takes off like wildfire.
Bottom Line:
This is a great series. It's unique. It's different and Connolly goes the extra mile to make it authentic and credible, right down to the whiskey. It started out a little slow but that's not a deal breaker. It certainly made up for it in the end. Maura is a great cozy heroine and I can't wait to see what she gets into next.
May 28, 2017
It truly is a “turn for the bad”…starting with the title—just plain “bad” English, let alone for a title!
Sheila Connolly may have a good premise for a story or two, or a series, but she does not develop characters enough to seem like real people. I can see that in not developing Sean or Mick (young Mick, not Old Mick) she may be doing so to add tension and mystery as a love interest for the main heroine, Maura. However, even her development of Maura, and Gillian in this book, is a bit of a drag as she repeats herself endlessly throughout the book. There is entirely too much internal dialog with no particular point to it, especially since it repeats content continuously throughout the book, and even from book to book. One has to wonder if in the afternoon she read what she wrote in the morning...it is that closely repeated! There is also a lot of close contradictions within this book.
I must agree with others that when it comes to plot, most of Connolly’s books lack a plausible plotline, especially if the heroine, Maura, is supposedly in the thick of it all every time. It is simply not plausible that Maura would take credit for the rescue in this book, or in the last one for that matter. Connolly has not developed Maura into a character who takes charge enough—as is evident in all the useless internal dialog—let alone capable of adding to any action, which she doesn’t—others do it for her. I could understand a bossy heroine who takes charge and forces action when others are reluctant, but that is not the personality that Connolly has developed in Maura. Connolly would do well to go back to basics by drawing out a plotline on paper and sticking to it.
Another weak point is the attempt by Connolly to inform readers of Irish life and history via either internal dialog or drawn-out dialog by one or another character. It simply does not flow and needs a lot of work if she wants to incorporate the information somehow.
As much as I was looking forward to an Irish cozy mystery, it was an entirely rushed job without editing for repetitions, contradictions, plot development, and literary devises. In fact, I found myself changing a lot of it as I read it to make up for errors. What would my dear English-teacher mother make of it? Get out the red pen!!
Sheila Connolly may have a good premise for a story or two, or a series, but she does not develop characters enough to seem like real people. I can see that in not developing Sean or Mick (young Mick, not Old Mick) she may be doing so to add tension and mystery as a love interest for the main heroine, Maura. However, even her development of Maura, and Gillian in this book, is a bit of a drag as she repeats herself endlessly throughout the book. There is entirely too much internal dialog with no particular point to it, especially since it repeats content continuously throughout the book, and even from book to book. One has to wonder if in the afternoon she read what she wrote in the morning...it is that closely repeated! There is also a lot of close contradictions within this book.
I must agree with others that when it comes to plot, most of Connolly’s books lack a plausible plotline, especially if the heroine, Maura, is supposedly in the thick of it all every time. It is simply not plausible that Maura would take credit for the rescue in this book, or in the last one for that matter. Connolly has not developed Maura into a character who takes charge enough—as is evident in all the useless internal dialog—let alone capable of adding to any action, which she doesn’t—others do it for her. I could understand a bossy heroine who takes charge and forces action when others are reluctant, but that is not the personality that Connolly has developed in Maura. Connolly would do well to go back to basics by drawing out a plotline on paper and sticking to it.
Another weak point is the attempt by Connolly to inform readers of Irish life and history via either internal dialog or drawn-out dialog by one or another character. It simply does not flow and needs a lot of work if she wants to incorporate the information somehow.
As much as I was looking forward to an Irish cozy mystery, it was an entirely rushed job without editing for repetitions, contradictions, plot development, and literary devises. In fact, I found myself changing a lot of it as I read it to make up for errors. What would my dear English-teacher mother make of it? Get out the red pen!!
August 17, 2025
I'm still not a fan of Maura, even after 4 books. She needs to learn to relax and start asking questions about things she doesn't understand, rather than playing the martyr and suffering through cold or wet or lack of food or whatever. Where's her curiosity about her co workers? The village? The country and its customs and traditions? She doesn't appear to have any. I'd like to see her getting out with people and seeing & experiencing the place she lives (when she can), rather than claiming to be 'too busy' working all the time. She has staff who are more experienced than she is - she needs to trust them to run the place when she wants/needs some time off.
And she needs to start making some decisions about the pub and how to bring in more money. I understand that she's never been a business owner before, but she has no ideas? Not one single one? Really? Bounce ideas around with your staff, your patrons, your friends, whomever. Bringing the music back to the pub was like pulling teeth with her, but in this book it feels like she's taking credit for making it happen.
The plot was creative for sure, if a bit far fetched. I don't know anything about police procedure anywhere (or drug busts), but I find it hard to believe that a police force - no matter where or how small - would be so forgiving of a group of civilians taking matters into their own hands and bumbling around drug dealers, potentially putting themselves and others at great risk, regardless of the reasons.
I love the Irish setting and the writing is great, which is what keeps me with this series, but Maura's a bit of a pill.
And she needs to start making some decisions about the pub and how to bring in more money. I understand that she's never been a business owner before, but she has no ideas? Not one single one? Really? Bounce ideas around with your staff, your patrons, your friends, whomever. Bringing the music back to the pub was like pulling teeth with her, but in this book it feels like she's taking credit for making it happen.
The plot was creative for sure, if a bit far fetched. I don't know anything about police procedure anywhere (or drug busts), but I find it hard to believe that a police force - no matter where or how small - would be so forgiving of a group of civilians taking matters into their own hands and bumbling around drug dealers, potentially putting themselves and others at great risk, regardless of the reasons.
I love the Irish setting and the writing is great, which is what keeps me with this series, but Maura's a bit of a pill.
June 13, 2018
This book starts with a bang, or at least a slam! Within the first few pages someone comes hurtling into Sullivan's to say that a local dairy farmer has gone missing, leaving his young son alone on the beach. The whole area pulls together to try and find him ... without success, and then people start talking in Sullivan's.
Apparently there is a thriving smuggling situation, with all sorts of people involved (some with small stuff like cigarettes, others with, well, harder stuff like Cocaine), sometimes it is purely passing through but some stays around (to the annoyance of the Gardai). With people trusting Maura more and more she suddenly finds herself in possession of some information that she needs to keep from Sean (the local Garda) and then before you know where you are at she is arranging something interesting with an ex-fisherman turn distiller, a barman and an accountant!
Add in the fact that her friend Gillian is trying to keep a secret (pretty much impossible in Leap) and you have fun and danger in equal amounts. Another brilliant book by Sheila Connolly!
Apparently there is a thriving smuggling situation, with all sorts of people involved (some with small stuff like cigarettes, others with, well, harder stuff like Cocaine), sometimes it is purely passing through but some stays around (to the annoyance of the Gardai). With people trusting Maura more and more she suddenly finds herself in possession of some information that she needs to keep from Sean (the local Garda) and then before you know where you are at she is arranging something interesting with an ex-fisherman turn distiller, a barman and an accountant!
Add in the fact that her friend Gillian is trying to keep a secret (pretty much impossible in Leap) and you have fun and danger in equal amounts. Another brilliant book by Sheila Connolly!
February 9, 2016
I cannot tell a lie; I like Maura Donovan and her employees and regulars at Sullivan's Pub. But this installment dragged a bit. The basic plot line is about a missing local dairy farmer, a mysterious dead body washed in by the tide and a mega drug bust set to unfold in the near future. Maura shouldn't even know about that last bit, but of course her friend Sean shares. The garda, the coast guard, the national drug enforcement officers and various locals are all involved. And, of course, the missing man is somehow related to all this. All fine as plots go, but when are we going to see Maura really take hold of adulthood and figure out how to light a fire and keep her cottage warm without a big strong, taciturn man involved? Is she ever going to buy furniture for her cottage or clean up that pub? Are we supposed to like all these man children wandering around the plot and Maura's life? All that being said, the details about Cork and Ireland in general are fun and kept me reading.
March 1, 2016
I have read all books in this series and I enjoy the town of Leap and its residents. I also enjoy learning more about Ireland. I look forward to each new book. However, I have to say, I don't like Maura. She never seems to laugh or crack a smile. I understand she's had a difficult life. She asks for help and when someone teases her she snips in response. She needs to loosen up and enjoy life. She shows very little interest in life outside of the pub and it's still unclear why she is really trying to make a go of it other than that it dropped in her lap and offered her a business. It would be great if we could see her learn more about herself, explore possible interests, enjoy life more. She really is a sour puss. I found some of her behavior in this plot a bit far fetched in regards to the end plot. That being said I've stuck around for four books and will continue to read future books. I just wish that Maura herself was more likeable and enjoyable to see life through.
August 8, 2017
Why is it that I enjoy the setting and all of the characters, except for the main protagonist? Maura Donovan is a total dolt. She's young, and doesn't have a very good head on her shoulders, despite the author's best attempts to convince us she does. Also, the book could be condensed a bit if the author didn't repeat information given earlier in the book. That is a bit monotonous. Undecided if I'll read more in the series. I like old Billy, and Mick, Rose, Gillian, and Bridget, but Maura gets on my nerves.
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