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County Clare Mystery #3
Path into Darkness
By the author of Whispers in the Mist, heralded by Library Journal as "a first-rate crime novel," comes this haunting tale of family secrets, madness, and healing in small-town Ireland
Lisfenora is known across the British Isles for its yearly matchmaking festival. But a local man's murder and the grim discovery in his home have cast a somber mood over the town. Detective Sergeant Danny Ahern tries to make sense of the chaotic scene while struggling to set aside moral conflicts and grief for his comatose wife. Within days, he's plunged into even darker terrain when the investigation leads him on a collision course with the Tate family: troubled Nathan, who conceals secrets within ghastly secrets, and beautiful Zoe, the daughter Nathan abandoned years ago.
In this "dark, compelling mystery" (Booklist), one man is propelled toward a tragic downfall while the other struggles to walk the narrow path between life and death.
Praise:
"An atmospheric story of Ireland, filled with myth and darkness. . . Fans of Erin Hart's dark Irish crime novels should welcome this series."--Library Journal (starred review)
"A dark, compelling mystery with numerous plot twists and well-drawn characters interwoven with an involving portrait of life in a small insular Irish village."--Booklist
"A haunting tale rife with gruesome murders and secrets, Path into Darkness shines." --Foreword Reviews "Lyrical, tense, and haunting . . . the story propels the reader to a conclusion that is heartbreaking, human, and hopeful."--Deborah Crombie, New York Times bestselling author of Garden of Lamentations
"Each strand in this terrific novel is absorbing enough to carry books on its own, yet Alber effortlessly weaves them into a breathtaking ensemble."--Catriona McPherson, Agatha Award-winning author of Quiet Neighbors
Lisfenora is known across the British Isles for its yearly matchmaking festival. But a local man's murder and the grim discovery in his home have cast a somber mood over the town. Detective Sergeant Danny Ahern tries to make sense of the chaotic scene while struggling to set aside moral conflicts and grief for his comatose wife. Within days, he's plunged into even darker terrain when the investigation leads him on a collision course with the Tate family: troubled Nathan, who conceals secrets within ghastly secrets, and beautiful Zoe, the daughter Nathan abandoned years ago.
In this "dark, compelling mystery" (Booklist), one man is propelled toward a tragic downfall while the other struggles to walk the narrow path between life and death.
Praise:
"An atmospheric story of Ireland, filled with myth and darkness. . . Fans of Erin Hart's dark Irish crime novels should welcome this series."--Library Journal (starred review)
"A dark, compelling mystery with numerous plot twists and well-drawn characters interwoven with an involving portrait of life in a small insular Irish village."--Booklist
"A haunting tale rife with gruesome murders and secrets, Path into Darkness shines." --Foreword Reviews "Lyrical, tense, and haunting . . . the story propels the reader to a conclusion that is heartbreaking, human, and hopeful."--Deborah Crombie, New York Times bestselling author of Garden of Lamentations
"Each strand in this terrific novel is absorbing enough to carry books on its own, yet Alber effortlessly weaves them into a breathtaking ensemble."--Catriona McPherson, Agatha Award-winning author of Quiet Neighbors
386 pages, Paperback
First published August 8, 2017
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November 12, 2020
"A haunting tale of family secrets, madness, and healing".
Lisfenora, Ireland. Renown for its annual matchmaking festival. The 'matchmaker' in this case is the terminally ill Liam. Knowing that his end is near, he appoints his daughter, Merritt Chase, to take over the esteemed role of 'matchmaker'. Merritt, feeling she has no aptitude for this position is reluctant. She has moved to Ireland from California.
In the small village there is another father/daughter duo. Nathan Tate, a potter with PTSD has recently found himself living with his vivacious and beautiful daughter, Zoe. The reader is made aware that he is uncomfortable having Zoe in his house, and in his life. We wonder why... Nathan has spent time in a psychiatric hospital. When his wife passed away, he abandoned Zoe to her grandparents. Nathan is now suffering. He rarely sleeps and has nightmares when he does. He often seems in a fugue state, with little to no memory of what has transpired during them. His mental state is fragile and he has a large scar - we wonder how he got it. He becomes involved with Annie, a woman who has recently moved to the village who used to work as a psychiatric nurse. Both with troubles of their own, together the world seems safer.
"Belief becomes its own truth"
Zoe herself, young, beautiful and vibrant, fancies herself a 'healer'. Some folk take her at face value, some view her absurd claim with amusement. At least one person in the village thinks that there is 'something off' about her...
Elder Joe is a local man who lives near a gravel quarry. A local regular at the village pub, he lives in a house much to large for him. He takes in 'lodgers'. These lodgers are not of the usual variety though, he takes in the elderly and infirm who cannot afford to stay in a care home. And let's just say that caring is not Elder Joe's strong suit.
The novel begins with the body of Elder Joe being found. Tasked with finding out who murdered him is Detective Sergeant Danny Ahern. Danny, also a pub regular, has a dismal home situation. He has two young children who are cared for by his father-in-law while he is at work. His wife is in a coma and has been for six months now. He takes his children to visit her every Saturday...
Then, there is a second murder in the small village. Common sense would dictate that they are connected, but are they?
MY THOUGHTS
I requested this title from NetGalley back when I thought NetGalley was a sweet shop and I was three years old. No seriously, I went through a spell when I was grabbing everything that took my eye - now of course experience has told me to be more selective. Don't get me wrong, this was a great novel, but it is 3rd in a series. Anyone who knows me, knows that I hate to start a series mid-stream. I really, really wish I had read the previous two novels before starting this one to get more of the background on the characters. Most of the relationships had underlying complexity that might have been made clearer by starting with the first book, "Kilmoon" in which Merrit and her father Liam were first introduced.
The setting was enchanting. A small Irish village in County Clare. Well described I could just about feel the rain and see the vivid greens when the sun shone.
The characters were interesting and I wanted to know more about them. Why did Nathan suffer so? What secrets was he harboring? Why was Zoe so 'chirpy'? Why did she want to live in a small Irish village with her father? Even though she seems to dote on her father, she seems somehow out of place - like a peacock among pigeons.
Would Garda Danny ever find happiness? Would he discover the murderer?
The mystery plot in this novel was well developed and satisfying to me. I didn't mind the slower pace as the characters were so beguiling. I do think my enjoyment of this title would have been much greater if I had read the previous novels in the series. In fact, I would go so far as to say it might have been a 5-star read for me if I had read the previous two books. For that, I only have myself to blame.
A novel that explores the themes of familial love, guilt, shame, and responsibility. Recommended to those crime/mystery lovers who like atmospheric settings and complex characters. In summation, I enjoyed my most recent 'visit' to Ireland. Based on my overall enjoyment of the book, I am rating it at 4 stars.
I received a complimentary digital copy of this novel from Midnight Ink via NetGalley for purposes of this review.
Lisfenora, Ireland. Renown for its annual matchmaking festival. The 'matchmaker' in this case is the terminally ill Liam. Knowing that his end is near, he appoints his daughter, Merritt Chase, to take over the esteemed role of 'matchmaker'. Merritt, feeling she has no aptitude for this position is reluctant. She has moved to Ireland from California.
In the small village there is another father/daughter duo. Nathan Tate, a potter with PTSD has recently found himself living with his vivacious and beautiful daughter, Zoe. The reader is made aware that he is uncomfortable having Zoe in his house, and in his life. We wonder why... Nathan has spent time in a psychiatric hospital. When his wife passed away, he abandoned Zoe to her grandparents. Nathan is now suffering. He rarely sleeps and has nightmares when he does. He often seems in a fugue state, with little to no memory of what has transpired during them. His mental state is fragile and he has a large scar - we wonder how he got it. He becomes involved with Annie, a woman who has recently moved to the village who used to work as a psychiatric nurse. Both with troubles of their own, together the world seems safer.
"Belief becomes its own truth"
Zoe herself, young, beautiful and vibrant, fancies herself a 'healer'. Some folk take her at face value, some view her absurd claim with amusement. At least one person in the village thinks that there is 'something off' about her...
Elder Joe is a local man who lives near a gravel quarry. A local regular at the village pub, he lives in a house much to large for him. He takes in 'lodgers'. These lodgers are not of the usual variety though, he takes in the elderly and infirm who cannot afford to stay in a care home. And let's just say that caring is not Elder Joe's strong suit.
The novel begins with the body of Elder Joe being found. Tasked with finding out who murdered him is Detective Sergeant Danny Ahern. Danny, also a pub regular, has a dismal home situation. He has two young children who are cared for by his father-in-law while he is at work. His wife is in a coma and has been for six months now. He takes his children to visit her every Saturday...
Then, there is a second murder in the small village. Common sense would dictate that they are connected, but are they?
MY THOUGHTS
I requested this title from NetGalley back when I thought NetGalley was a sweet shop and I was three years old. No seriously, I went through a spell when I was grabbing everything that took my eye - now of course experience has told me to be more selective. Don't get me wrong, this was a great novel, but it is 3rd in a series. Anyone who knows me, knows that I hate to start a series mid-stream. I really, really wish I had read the previous two novels before starting this one to get more of the background on the characters. Most of the relationships had underlying complexity that might have been made clearer by starting with the first book, "Kilmoon" in which Merrit and her father Liam were first introduced.
The setting was enchanting. A small Irish village in County Clare. Well described I could just about feel the rain and see the vivid greens when the sun shone.
The characters were interesting and I wanted to know more about them. Why did Nathan suffer so? What secrets was he harboring? Why was Zoe so 'chirpy'? Why did she want to live in a small Irish village with her father? Even though she seems to dote on her father, she seems somehow out of place - like a peacock among pigeons.
Would Garda Danny ever find happiness? Would he discover the murderer?
The mystery plot in this novel was well developed and satisfying to me. I didn't mind the slower pace as the characters were so beguiling. I do think my enjoyment of this title would have been much greater if I had read the previous novels in the series. In fact, I would go so far as to say it might have been a 5-star read for me if I had read the previous two books. For that, I only have myself to blame.
A novel that explores the themes of familial love, guilt, shame, and responsibility. Recommended to those crime/mystery lovers who like atmospheric settings and complex characters. In summation, I enjoyed my most recent 'visit' to Ireland. Based on my overall enjoyment of the book, I am rating it at 4 stars.
I received a complimentary digital copy of this novel from Midnight Ink via NetGalley for purposes of this review.
September 5, 2017
This is the third book in the County Clare Mystery series. While the mystery aspect of the plot works fine as a standalone story, readers would gain more from the ongoing development of the recurring characters if the books were read in order. The relationships between the characters are pretty complex, the point of view changes frequently, and there are also journal entries. It's a good choice if you enjoy a more slow-moving, character-driven and deeply atmospheric novel.
Unfortunately, this has been my least favorite of the three I've read now. The story starts off in an interesting and exciting manner and it was nice to reconnect with DS Danny Ahern, with Meredith and with the other oddball locals in the small village of Lisfenora in Ireland. But it soon began to drag and the mystery failed to hold my attention. I found it hard to become invested in the storyline about Zoe and her dad Nate. Mainly, I think, because it was so transparent what was going on with Zoe. I enjoyed the personal aspects of Danny's and Meredith's lives more than the rest of the story. For that reason, I will certainly continue with this series as I've become fond of some of the characters. But overall, not the best one of the series.
I received an ARC via NetGalley.
Unfortunately, this has been my least favorite of the three I've read now. The story starts off in an interesting and exciting manner and it was nice to reconnect with DS Danny Ahern, with Meredith and with the other oddball locals in the small village of Lisfenora in Ireland. But it soon began to drag and the mystery failed to hold my attention. I found it hard to become invested in the storyline about Zoe and her dad Nate. Mainly, I think, because it was so transparent what was going on with Zoe. I enjoyed the personal aspects of Danny's and Meredith's lives more than the rest of the story. For that reason, I will certainly continue with this series as I've become fond of some of the characters. But overall, not the best one of the series.
I received an ARC via NetGalley.
August 15, 2017
A local man is found dead..... this is the story of Detective Sergeant Danny Ahern who investigates this crime whilst his wife lies in a hospital bed in a coma.
It is an easy and quick read. Thank you to Net Galley and Midnight Ink for a copy of this book to read and review
It is an easy and quick read. Thank you to Net Galley and Midnight Ink for a copy of this book to read and review
August 7, 2017
With the third installment of the County Clare mysteries, Lisa Alber has cemented the series’ success. One of the descriptions heard in reviews of this series is that it is atmospheric, and that is indeed a delicious element of each book. There is always a lingering of the fey, both its positive and negative mysterious underpinnings. Another strength is Alber’s adeptness at developing interesting characters whose stories weave together from book to book, anchoring the readers to the community of Lisfenora, Ireland and its charm.
The action gets underway quickly in Path into Darkness, with a local man called Elder Joe found murdered in his cottage. Series favorite Detective Sergeant Danny Ahern is called to the scene where he encounters the bloody corpse of his fellow Plough and Trough Pub patron and the person who found Elder Joe, Merrit Chase. Merrit, who hails from California, now resides in Lisfenora with her father, whom she had come to Ireland in search of, and who is the local matchmaker. As Danny and Merrit have a tense relationship, the investigation into the death begins on a troubling course for Danny. Add in that the investigation is beginning on a Saturday, the day that Danny takes his children to see their comatose mother in the hospital, a situation that Danny feels great guilt about, and it is a trying day indeed.
Suspects are hard to come by for the murder of Elder Joe, even though he could be a rather reprehensible person. But, a relatively newcomer to the area, Nathan Tate, a potter, becomes a person of interest. Nathan has a troubled past, including a stay in a mental hospital, and his adult overbearing daughter Zoe, whom he abandoned as a teenager, has recently found him and moved in with him. The Tate family has lots of demons and secrets. Nathan’s slippery grip on reality and his memory lapses coupled with Zoe’s claim to be a healer make for some high drama and suspense. Danny must try to sort through what he can uncover to determine if Nathan is indeed a suspect.
The mixture of old and new characters in this story provides plenty of intrigue. Annie, another newcomer to the Lisfenora area, brings a whole other scenario for the murder of Elder Joe, and her journal entries scattered throughout the book provide titillating insight into a psychological mind game occurring. I was happy to see that Merrit had a larger part in this story, along with her father Liam, and their relationship. At this point in the series, Lisfenora has become a familiar place in whose residents the reader has vested affection and concern. I feel that Path into Darkness has solidified the bond between reader and characters that will continue forward.
Path into Darkness deals with multiple stories, back stories and the murder at the forefront, but Lisa Alber deftly handles all the strings in the web, throwing in a twist or a turn, and brings all to a completed picture, which defies prediction. There are themes of resurrection, second chances, family secrets, family love, and unbearable grief running throughout this clever narrative. Get comfortable and keep a light on because once you start reading Path into Darkness, you will have to chase the thrill to the end.
I received a copy from the author of this book, and I have given a clear, unbiased review.
The action gets underway quickly in Path into Darkness, with a local man called Elder Joe found murdered in his cottage. Series favorite Detective Sergeant Danny Ahern is called to the scene where he encounters the bloody corpse of his fellow Plough and Trough Pub patron and the person who found Elder Joe, Merrit Chase. Merrit, who hails from California, now resides in Lisfenora with her father, whom she had come to Ireland in search of, and who is the local matchmaker. As Danny and Merrit have a tense relationship, the investigation into the death begins on a troubling course for Danny. Add in that the investigation is beginning on a Saturday, the day that Danny takes his children to see their comatose mother in the hospital, a situation that Danny feels great guilt about, and it is a trying day indeed.
Suspects are hard to come by for the murder of Elder Joe, even though he could be a rather reprehensible person. But, a relatively newcomer to the area, Nathan Tate, a potter, becomes a person of interest. Nathan has a troubled past, including a stay in a mental hospital, and his adult overbearing daughter Zoe, whom he abandoned as a teenager, has recently found him and moved in with him. The Tate family has lots of demons and secrets. Nathan’s slippery grip on reality and his memory lapses coupled with Zoe’s claim to be a healer make for some high drama and suspense. Danny must try to sort through what he can uncover to determine if Nathan is indeed a suspect.
The mixture of old and new characters in this story provides plenty of intrigue. Annie, another newcomer to the Lisfenora area, brings a whole other scenario for the murder of Elder Joe, and her journal entries scattered throughout the book provide titillating insight into a psychological mind game occurring. I was happy to see that Merrit had a larger part in this story, along with her father Liam, and their relationship. At this point in the series, Lisfenora has become a familiar place in whose residents the reader has vested affection and concern. I feel that Path into Darkness has solidified the bond between reader and characters that will continue forward.
Path into Darkness deals with multiple stories, back stories and the murder at the forefront, but Lisa Alber deftly handles all the strings in the web, throwing in a twist or a turn, and brings all to a completed picture, which defies prediction. There are themes of resurrection, second chances, family secrets, family love, and unbearable grief running throughout this clever narrative. Get comfortable and keep a light on because once you start reading Path into Darkness, you will have to chase the thrill to the end.
I received a copy from the author of this book, and I have given a clear, unbiased review.
April 20, 2017
While this is part of a series, it also stands alone quite nicely. In another review I compared Alber to Kate Atkinson and Wilkie Collins and this still holds true for me. Character-driven mystery with beautiful descriptive passages that might make you check the locks on your doors a few times if you're reading it at night!
August 31, 2017
So here's the conundrum with reading series books out of order. You tend to miss out on certain backgrounds of characters and if these aren't addressed in the book you're reading (out of order), you feel a bit at a loss. However, if you are reading a series in order and the author spends too much time revisiting past circumstances then I get irritated. I don't think I knew this was series book until I received it. Being number 3 in the County Clare Mystery series, there were definitely things I was missing from books 1 and 2 that would've been helpful going into this one. It CAN be read as a standalone, but I think it would resonate better had I had the other books knocked out.
Putting all that aside, this was a fantastic, atmospheric read. It starts out with the death of Elder Joe and Detective Danny Ahern is on the case. Of course, Danny has his own set of issues and with the upcoming matchmaking festival (can you imagine?!?!), he feel pressured to get this solved quickly. Nathan Tate and his daughter Zoe come into the scene and boy oh boy does Nathan have some interesting secrets of his own.
Adler does a great job in pulling all the nuances together. She builds Ireland's atmosphere in such a way that you feel like you are there - extremely well written descriptions help you picture it all. I didn't find many of the characters likable but in this case, I liked not liking them (get me?) Adding twists and turns at every corner, you're in for a corkscrew of a ride.
Thank you to Midnight Ink Books for this copy!
Putting all that aside, this was a fantastic, atmospheric read. It starts out with the death of Elder Joe and Detective Danny Ahern is on the case. Of course, Danny has his own set of issues and with the upcoming matchmaking festival (can you imagine?!?!), he feel pressured to get this solved quickly. Nathan Tate and his daughter Zoe come into the scene and boy oh boy does Nathan have some interesting secrets of his own.
Adler does a great job in pulling all the nuances together. She builds Ireland's atmosphere in such a way that you feel like you are there - extremely well written descriptions help you picture it all. I didn't find many of the characters likable but in this case, I liked not liking them (get me?) Adding twists and turns at every corner, you're in for a corkscrew of a ride.
Thank you to Midnight Ink Books for this copy!
March 16, 2017
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for providing an early copy in exchange for an honest review.
Path Into Darkness had a lot of potential and started off well, making me excited to get stuck into the novel. However after a certain point, it all fell a little short. The characters were extremely hard to connect to and unlikeable (not that they have to be, but you have to at least want to read about them). The story also felt very choppy and confusing.
I'm sure others might pick this up and find it's really quite good but unfortunately it just didn't grip me like i'd like it to.
Path Into Darkness had a lot of potential and started off well, making me excited to get stuck into the novel. However after a certain point, it all fell a little short. The characters were extremely hard to connect to and unlikeable (not that they have to be, but you have to at least want to read about them). The story also felt very choppy and confusing.
I'm sure others might pick this up and find it's really quite good but unfortunately it just didn't grip me like i'd like it to.
May 20, 2017
Thank you to Netgalley and Midnight Ink for the advanced reader copy in exchange for an honest review.
Path Into Darkness is part of a larger series featuring Sargeant Detective Danny Ahern and the citizens of Lisfenora. I will say there were elements of the novel that would have made more sense had I read the first two, but overall it was an enjoyable read as a stand alone story.
Detective Ahern is called to the murder of Elder Joe, a local man who is known in town for his unpleasant temperament. Ahern and his colleagues struggle to find the killer. The only lead they have is that Joe has been operating his house as a lodging home. Is the killer one of his tenants?
Ahern’s search for the killer sets him on a collision course with the damaged Tate family. Nathan, a local sculptor, spent some time at Joe’s lodging home and becomes a person of interest. His overbearing daughter, Zoe, has recently moved in with her dad and claims to possess healing powers. The Tate’s hold many family secrets which impact not only their own relationship but Detective Ahern’s investigation as well.
This novel was filled with twists that I did not see coming. I was constantly questioning who the murderer might be. Lisa Alber has created well rounded characters with intriguing personalities and pasts.
I particularly enjoyed Merit’s story as well. The daughter of the town matchmaker (an Irish tradition), she has spent most of her life in California. After moving to Ireland to care for her father, she struggles with her identity as a member of the tightknit Irish community. She becomes a key member of the main plot after she discovers the body of Elder Joe. I became swept up in her storyline and her relationship to the investigation.
Overall I enjoyed Alber’s novel. I wish there was a little more exposition for readers new to the series but it overall it was a great mystery, character driven until the very last page.
Path Into Darkness is part of a larger series featuring Sargeant Detective Danny Ahern and the citizens of Lisfenora. I will say there were elements of the novel that would have made more sense had I read the first two, but overall it was an enjoyable read as a stand alone story.
Detective Ahern is called to the murder of Elder Joe, a local man who is known in town for his unpleasant temperament. Ahern and his colleagues struggle to find the killer. The only lead they have is that Joe has been operating his house as a lodging home. Is the killer one of his tenants?
Ahern’s search for the killer sets him on a collision course with the damaged Tate family. Nathan, a local sculptor, spent some time at Joe’s lodging home and becomes a person of interest. His overbearing daughter, Zoe, has recently moved in with her dad and claims to possess healing powers. The Tate’s hold many family secrets which impact not only their own relationship but Detective Ahern’s investigation as well.
This novel was filled with twists that I did not see coming. I was constantly questioning who the murderer might be. Lisa Alber has created well rounded characters with intriguing personalities and pasts.
I particularly enjoyed Merit’s story as well. The daughter of the town matchmaker (an Irish tradition), she has spent most of her life in California. After moving to Ireland to care for her father, she struggles with her identity as a member of the tightknit Irish community. She becomes a key member of the main plot after she discovers the body of Elder Joe. I became swept up in her storyline and her relationship to the investigation.
Overall I enjoyed Alber’s novel. I wish there was a little more exposition for readers new to the series but it overall it was a great mystery, character driven until the very last page.
August 2, 2017
“Path Into Darkness” by Lisa Alber is part of the “County Clare” series. While it is not necessary to have read the previous books to enjoy this one, reading previous books makes it easier understand the characters and situations. Detective Danny Ahern and his colleagues are investigating the murder of Elder Joe, a man with a decidedly unpleasant personality. They struggle to find answers without much success. Joe has been running a boarding house, among other things, so they suspect that the killer may be one of his tenants. There are twists and turns on every page as secrets are revealed, families unravel, characters struggle with personal calamities, and the ghosts of the past come screaming into the present.
The characters are well developed, with captivating personalities and intriguing pasts. The story brings out the rich history and geography of Ireland along with its legends and darkness. In addition, the Irish setting is as much a character in the book as the people are.
I received a copy of “Path Into Darkness” from Midnight Ink, Lisa Alber, NetGalley in exchange for my impartial review. I enjoyed the book, but gave it three stars because I had not read any previous books, it took a while for me to sort out the details, characters, and relationships established previously. I am sure that return readers will have no problem jumping right in. I love character-driven books, and this certainly fits that description.
The characters are well developed, with captivating personalities and intriguing pasts. The story brings out the rich history and geography of Ireland along with its legends and darkness. In addition, the Irish setting is as much a character in the book as the people are.
I received a copy of “Path Into Darkness” from Midnight Ink, Lisa Alber, NetGalley in exchange for my impartial review. I enjoyed the book, but gave it three stars because I had not read any previous books, it took a while for me to sort out the details, characters, and relationships established previously. I am sure that return readers will have no problem jumping right in. I love character-driven books, and this certainly fits that description.
July 1, 2017
Lisa Alber's mystery series just keeps getting better with every book. Path Into Darkness reminds me a little bit of another beloved series - the Richard Jury novels by Martha Grimes. The series has a marvelous array of interesting characters, threads that follow through from one book to the next, beautiful plotting, a brooding emotional intensity, and things that make me laugh. Path Into Darkness has a lovely Gothic element that I adore. This book could easily be read as a stand alone, as well. Basically - this book is ALL the things I love in a great mystery. Read it. You won't be disappointed.
*I was given an advance copy in exchange for an honest review.
*I was given an advance copy in exchange for an honest review.
August 10, 2017
Thanks to Midnight Ink for the copy in exchange for my honest review.
This atmospheric murder mystery thriller was an absorbing read. While Lisa Alber's PATH INTO DARKNESS is book three in the County Clare series, you can read it as a standalone. I do want to go back and read books 1 and 2 simply because the development of some of the relationships is missing. So I did feel like I was missing some background information.
Taking place in Lisfenora, Ireland we start with the discovery of Elder Joe's body in his cottage. Detective Sergeant Danny Ahern is assigned to the murder case, but he is dealing with his own demons that he's trying to keep at bay. With the town's annual matchmaking festival quickly approaching, the pressure is on to catch the killer. His investigation leads him to the Tate family. Nathan has his dark secrets within his secrets, so needless to say he's troubled, and then there's Zoe, the daughter he had abandoned years ago.
It amazed me how descriptive Alber was, without it feeling too wordy. Sometimes overly descriptive novels feel like they drag on and on. It felt like I was actually there in Lisfenora with the characters and experiencing everything with them. I will say that I'd recommend reading the first two novels. I'm definitely missing some background information and the development of the returning characters. So the transition into their current situations was a little lost on me (hence why I took off half a star).
There were twists and turns, and very disturbing secrets revealed about the residents in this quiet town. If you want an atmospheric murder mystery thriller with flawed characters, then I'd highly recommend this one to you!
I give this 4.5/5 stars!
This atmospheric murder mystery thriller was an absorbing read. While Lisa Alber's PATH INTO DARKNESS is book three in the County Clare series, you can read it as a standalone. I do want to go back and read books 1 and 2 simply because the development of some of the relationships is missing. So I did feel like I was missing some background information.
Taking place in Lisfenora, Ireland we start with the discovery of Elder Joe's body in his cottage. Detective Sergeant Danny Ahern is assigned to the murder case, but he is dealing with his own demons that he's trying to keep at bay. With the town's annual matchmaking festival quickly approaching, the pressure is on to catch the killer. His investigation leads him to the Tate family. Nathan has his dark secrets within his secrets, so needless to say he's troubled, and then there's Zoe, the daughter he had abandoned years ago.
It amazed me how descriptive Alber was, without it feeling too wordy. Sometimes overly descriptive novels feel like they drag on and on. It felt like I was actually there in Lisfenora with the characters and experiencing everything with them. I will say that I'd recommend reading the first two novels. I'm definitely missing some background information and the development of the returning characters. So the transition into their current situations was a little lost on me (hence why I took off half a star).
There were twists and turns, and very disturbing secrets revealed about the residents in this quiet town. If you want an atmospheric murder mystery thriller with flawed characters, then I'd highly recommend this one to you!
I give this 4.5/5 stars!
July 15, 2017
The devil is living with you. Nathan is having awful dreams again and since his daughter Zoe has moved they are even worse. He fears that he is losing his mind again, he really thought that he was getting better. But lately more strange things are happening people are dying and someone is framing Nathan. He just can't remember doing any of the things that the police are saying he has done. Danny knows that Nathan is guilty but something is bugging him about this case and he needs to look into Nathan's life even more. But Danny has enough problems already, his wife is still in a coma and will probably never recover and he has two children still to take care of. But Danny knows that he has to get his head into the game and find out why people are been killed in his town and what does Zoe have to do with it all? Merritt just wants to help with the case but Danny just needs her to back off and that just makes her even more determine to help but will she be happy with what she finds out? A really strange story, evil hides everywhere. I was lucky enough to receive a copy in exchange for an honest review via Netgally & the publishing house.
June 7, 2017
Path Into Darkness (A County Clare Mystery) is a gripping, atmospheric book with characters full of secrets. Lisa Alber's writing is so descriptive that I almost felt that I was in Lisfenora, Ireland and walking side by side with its residents. When Elder Joe (EJ) is murdered, it is up to Detective Sergeant Danny Ahern to solve the crime while dealing with his own demons. The upcoming matchmaking festival has several residents up in arms -- will "outsider" Merrit be able to take over from her ailing Father, Liam, (and does she even want to) and then there are the newcomers: an anguished Nathan Tate and his beautiful, carefree daughter, Zoe, as well as the lovely Annie who has a big secret of her own and is terrified by the night. There are many twists and turns in this book, and several disturbing revelations about some of Lisfenora's residents.
Path into Darkness is the third book in the County Clare Mysteries, and while it can stand alone, I would recommend reading the first two books in the series to get more background on some of the characters and the situations they now find themselves in. This was a gripping book that was hard to put down and I found myself thinking about it a lot when I wasn't reading it. I recommend this book without reservation, and hope you will read it and find yourself transported to Lisfenora as I was.
I received an ARC of this book from the author, but all thoughts and opinions are my own.
Path into Darkness is the third book in the County Clare Mysteries, and while it can stand alone, I would recommend reading the first two books in the series to get more background on some of the characters and the situations they now find themselves in. This was a gripping book that was hard to put down and I found myself thinking about it a lot when I wasn't reading it. I recommend this book without reservation, and hope you will read it and find yourself transported to Lisfenora as I was.
I received an ARC of this book from the author, but all thoughts and opinions are my own.
May 7, 2017
Lisa nailed it again. Mystery mastery. Although part of a series, this book can stand alone. The setting in Co. Clare, Ireland drew me to Lisa's books. I love the colloquial expressions of the characters.
Who killed Elder Joe Macey in his cottage keeps the reader guessing with subtle twists. I had four guesses but one could find possibly more suspects. There is more than one mystery to solve than murder as the characters'lives unfold. Plenty going on behind the scenes as Detective Sargeant Danny Ahern copes with his personal life while working on his investigation. Tugs of love and family healing throughout the story.
Lisa's writing nestles with the reader. A page turner. Well done. Here's to many more from Lisa's pen.
Who killed Elder Joe Macey in his cottage keeps the reader guessing with subtle twists. I had four guesses but one could find possibly more suspects. There is more than one mystery to solve than murder as the characters'lives unfold. Plenty going on behind the scenes as Detective Sargeant Danny Ahern copes with his personal life while working on his investigation. Tugs of love and family healing throughout the story.
Lisa's writing nestles with the reader. A page turner. Well done. Here's to many more from Lisa's pen.
March 16, 2017
I would like to thank Netgalley and Midnight Ink for an advance copy of Path Into Darkness, the third murder mystery set in the fictional town of Lisfenora, Co. Clare, featuring DS Danny Ahern.
Danny is called out to the murder of Joseph "Elder Joe" Macy who has been stabbed in his home. Despite being a fairly unpleasant man with some unsavoury means of making money no one can think of a suspect. The closest they come is Nathan Tate, a mentally unstable man who used to lodge with Elder Joe.
Initially I was really taken with Path Into Darkness. It has a great sense of place and character and an intriguing, suspenseful start. There are also some insightful comments, my favourite being "half the battle of investigating crimes was cracking the mirrors that reflected back people's polite facades" as it seems to capture the nub of crime fiction. Unfortunately the novel did not hold my attention for long. The criminal investigation soon takes a backseat to the characters' personal problems and lives, especially Nathan's and as I guessed almost from the start what was going on there I lost interest.
The characters are fairly likeable. Danny Ahern is raising his children alone as his wife is on life support and does a good job. He is also smart and effective as a detective. Nathan, I'm not even going to try and explain as the whole raison d'être behind his mental problems could have been fixed years ago and the fact that it wasn't defies belief.
I should also point out that the copy I read has American spellings so it is extremely strange to read Irish children referring to "mom".
Path Into Darkness starts well but falls away as the novel progresses. It is an easy way to pass a few hours.
Danny is called out to the murder of Joseph "Elder Joe" Macy who has been stabbed in his home. Despite being a fairly unpleasant man with some unsavoury means of making money no one can think of a suspect. The closest they come is Nathan Tate, a mentally unstable man who used to lodge with Elder Joe.
Initially I was really taken with Path Into Darkness. It has a great sense of place and character and an intriguing, suspenseful start. There are also some insightful comments, my favourite being "half the battle of investigating crimes was cracking the mirrors that reflected back people's polite facades" as it seems to capture the nub of crime fiction. Unfortunately the novel did not hold my attention for long. The criminal investigation soon takes a backseat to the characters' personal problems and lives, especially Nathan's and as I guessed almost from the start what was going on there I lost interest.
The characters are fairly likeable. Danny Ahern is raising his children alone as his wife is on life support and does a good job. He is also smart and effective as a detective. Nathan, I'm not even going to try and explain as the whole raison d'être behind his mental problems could have been fixed years ago and the fact that it wasn't defies belief.
I should also point out that the copy I read has American spellings so it is extremely strange to read Irish children referring to "mom".
Path Into Darkness starts well but falls away as the novel progresses. It is an easy way to pass a few hours.
August 11, 2017
What could be better reading in the sweltering months of summer than a dark and atmospheric mystery? As I read Lisa Alber’s highly anticipated Path Into Darkness, the third in her County Clare mystery series, I could almost feel the misty rain and brisk winds of Ireland sweeping over me. Although new to the series, I had no trouble becoming immediately engrossed in both the characters and plot line which centered around the murder of one of Lisfenora’s locals and a regular at the Plough and Trough Pub...
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September 18, 2017
Another wonderful book by Lisa Alber. This is another entry in the series that began with Kilmoon. And, while a lot of the characters are still here, the emphasis in this book has shifted slightly to feature Danny. There are many mysteries in this book, set in Ireland in the days leading up to Easter...who killed Elder John is only the beginning. Why is Nathan clinging (and not well) to reality, and why is he so afraid of his daughter, Zoe? What secrets is Annie hiding? Really, the entire book is about secrets and recovery/resurrection. I loved the setting, the characters, the story. I would highly recommend this book.
August 10, 2017
I loved this book. The story pulled me in and kept me thinking about it (and brooding over it!) even when I had to put it down. (Which wasn't often as I finished it within a day!) The stories all entwined in such a way that you don't see it coming, or even suspect it, and the characters are so real you would recognize them instantly. The writing is just so good, it flows evenly throughout the book and you really feel everything. I'm not going to post any spoilers, not even a hint, I will only say that I highly recommend this book. So read it!!
August 29, 2019
Lisfenora is known across the British Isles for its yearly matchmaking festival. But a local man's murder and the grim discovery in his home have cast a somber mood over the town. Detective Sergeant Danny Ahern tries to make sense of the chaotic scene while struggling to set aside moral conflicts and grief for his comatose wife. Within days, he's plunged into even darker terrain when the investigation leads him on a collision course with the Tate family: troubled Nathan, who conceals secrets within ghastly secrets, and beautiful Zoe, the daughter Nathan abandoned years ago.
September 23, 2017
This book turned out to be very good overall. It had a bit of a slow start, but once you get about a quarter of the way through it becomes addictive. There are so many twists and turns, with a surprise ending that I did not see coming. The main characters were well thought out, each with their own individual back stories and complications. They end up all tying in together nicely. I highly recommend for people that like to read mysteries.
October 23, 2017
Lisa Alber's County Clare books just get better and better. The village and its inhabitants seem real. Their victories and heartbreaks seem real. The different story threads weave together, part, and reconnect in unexpected ways. I finish each story wondering what will happen next in these peoples' lives. This book sucked me in and didn't want to let go. I finished reading, stepped back a pace, and now I'm wondering what will happen next.
March 16, 2021
This wasn’t one of my best reads, but it also wasn’t bad. I always enjoy reading novels from other places and this was set in Ireland. It was sort of a mess, back and forth. One of the characters had serious issues but they all seemed to have some sort of issue. It was a series with the same characters, but I read book 3.
I’d like to read book 1 & 2.
I’d like to read book 1 & 2.
May 31, 2017
Having visited Ireland a couple of years ago, I can say that reading Path Into Darkness made me feel like I was living in a small Irish village. Alber takes her time weaving the intricate story like a celtic knot. Her writing is strong and her voice is distinct.
October 12, 2017
I had a difficult time connecting with this story. It just wasn't very interesting to me. There were some strange tangents going on with other characters that I didn't care about. I skimmed through but didn't finish it in the end.
April 26, 2018
Really enjoyed this mystery based in Ireland. It is the second in the series so now I’ll going back to reading the first of the series, which is helping me with the backstory. But I enjoyed this even without having red the first.
I recommend it for suspense and mystery lovers.
I recommend it for suspense and mystery lovers.
January 9, 2018
I'm not sure if I'm picking the wrong books for myself or what but another book I could not get into.
August 23, 2018
I like this series and the author is getting better at the stories with each book. Good mysteries and interesting characters.
August 25, 2017
Original Review Here
Having thoroughly enjoyed Whispers in the Mist, I couldn’t pass up the opportunity to read Lisa Alber’s next book, Path into Darkness.
Despite the murders and the madness, Alber’s writing, characters and plot have an element of charm to them. Perhaps it is the Irish-ness about it; their phrases and superstitions in this small town where being a matchmaker is as believable as being a genuine healer. It was this charm that drew me to the first book, and helped me enjoy the second book.
Danny has his hands full. His wife lies in a comatose state, her condition deteriorating while his children believe she will rise again on Easter Sunday. If that isn’t enough, a murder in the village causes Danny to have to delve deeper into the past of the lads he shares a pint with.
Meanwhile, Nathan has problems of his own, and not just his weak hold on reality. His beautiful and enigmatic daughter, Zoe, has found him. She is determined to look after him. But Zoe’s presence is doing more harm than good and Nathan doesn’t know who he can trust.
The book isn’t short (nearly 400 pages) but the pacing is swift, aided by the numerous changes in narration. The reader follows Danny, Nathan and Merrit, with diary entries from both Annie and her stalker adding their own twists. With sanity being a fluid state of being, there were times I felt overwhelmed by the number of voices to keep track of; especially as they all had their own problems and set of ideas.
That being said, I never got lost in the narration and the plot swept me along. Despite the aforementioned charm, there is darkness in this book, the type that gave me the shudders when it was revealed how far characters were prepared to go. This book delves into human nature and instinct, creating a powerful and brooding tale of love and loss.
The pacing is consistent, with twists scattered throughout. Every time I thought I had figured something out, another twist would undermine that theory. So many mysterious appear predictable these days. But Alber blends reality with superstition and the conclusion is that nothing should be ruled out as impossible. This book will take you for a ride!
Another message from this book: do not underestimate children! What should have been a sad ending was turned around by the reaction of Danny’s kids and it reminded me to never underestimate a child; being young just gives you a different way of thinking of things.
It was a joy returning to the characters from Whispers in the Mist. Although reading the first book gives you the background to the characters’ relationships, it is not a necessity to read it first. You get the feel of the characters through their interactions with one another regardless of whether you have read the first book or not.
An enjoyable mystery with a dark undercurrent. I definitely recommend Alber’s books!
Having thoroughly enjoyed Whispers in the Mist, I couldn’t pass up the opportunity to read Lisa Alber’s next book, Path into Darkness.
Despite the murders and the madness, Alber’s writing, characters and plot have an element of charm to them. Perhaps it is the Irish-ness about it; their phrases and superstitions in this small town where being a matchmaker is as believable as being a genuine healer. It was this charm that drew me to the first book, and helped me enjoy the second book.
Danny has his hands full. His wife lies in a comatose state, her condition deteriorating while his children believe she will rise again on Easter Sunday. If that isn’t enough, a murder in the village causes Danny to have to delve deeper into the past of the lads he shares a pint with.
Meanwhile, Nathan has problems of his own, and not just his weak hold on reality. His beautiful and enigmatic daughter, Zoe, has found him. She is determined to look after him. But Zoe’s presence is doing more harm than good and Nathan doesn’t know who he can trust.
The book isn’t short (nearly 400 pages) but the pacing is swift, aided by the numerous changes in narration. The reader follows Danny, Nathan and Merrit, with diary entries from both Annie and her stalker adding their own twists. With sanity being a fluid state of being, there were times I felt overwhelmed by the number of voices to keep track of; especially as they all had their own problems and set of ideas.
That being said, I never got lost in the narration and the plot swept me along. Despite the aforementioned charm, there is darkness in this book, the type that gave me the shudders when it was revealed how far characters were prepared to go. This book delves into human nature and instinct, creating a powerful and brooding tale of love and loss.
The pacing is consistent, with twists scattered throughout. Every time I thought I had figured something out, another twist would undermine that theory. So many mysterious appear predictable these days. But Alber blends reality with superstition and the conclusion is that nothing should be ruled out as impossible. This book will take you for a ride!
Another message from this book: do not underestimate children! What should have been a sad ending was turned around by the reaction of Danny’s kids and it reminded me to never underestimate a child; being young just gives you a different way of thinking of things.
It was a joy returning to the characters from Whispers in the Mist. Although reading the first book gives you the background to the characters’ relationships, it is not a necessity to read it first. You get the feel of the characters through their interactions with one another regardless of whether you have read the first book or not.
An enjoyable mystery with a dark undercurrent. I definitely recommend Alber’s books!
May 31, 2018
I have to say I really like Danny as a character and I glad we got to see various aspects of his life in this book. Hope there are more books in this series.
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