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The best way to read Carlene O’Connor is by publication order, starting with her popular Irish Village Mysteries series. O’Connor is a USA Today bestselling author known for her charming Irish settings, cozy mysteries, and strong family-centered storytelling. She also writes the Home to Ireland Mysteries and the Sisters of Ireland Mysteries. Below, you’ll find all her reading orders explained, complete book lists, and FAQs.
Publication Order
Carlene O’Connor writes across multiple series. Here is the complete publication order for each.
Irish Village Mysteries
Set in the fictional town of Kilbane, County Cork, this series follows Siobhán O’Sullivan, a determined young woman running a family bistro while solving murders in her close-knit community.
- Murder in an Irish Village (2016)
- Murder at an Irish Wedding (2017)
- Murder in an Irish Churchyard (2018)
- Murder in an Irish Pub (2019)
- Murder in an Irish Cottage (2020)
- Murder in an Irish Bookshop (2021)
- Murder on an Irish Farm (2021)
- Murder in an Irish Christmas (2021, novella)
- Murder at an Irish Bakery (2023)
- Murder at an Irish Chipper (2024)
Home to Ireland Mysteries
This series blends cozy mystery with a more contemporary feel, featuring a woman returning to Ireland to reconnect with her roots while confronting secrets and crimes.
- No Strangers Here (2022)
- Some of Us Are Looking (2023)
- Butcher Lane (2024)
Sisters of Ireland Mysteries
A historical mystery series featuring three sisters in post–World War II Ireland, combining historical drama with suspense.
- The Dublin Widow (2024)
Contributions to Anthologies
O’Connor has also written novellas featured in mystery anthologies, often alongside other cozy authors, such as holiday-themed collections. These works add depth to her universe but are optional for main-series readers.
Chronological Order
For Carlene O’Connor, the chronological order aligns with publication order. Each series follows its own timeline without overlapping events. Reading them in the order they were published ensures you experience character growth and recurring themes as intended.
Recommended Reading Order
When deciding how to read Carlene O’Connor, consider your mystery preferences:
- If you love traditional cozies with humor and family warmth, start with the Irish Village Mysteries.
- If you prefer modern, atmospheric mysteries with a slightly darker tone, begin with the Home to Ireland Mysteries.
- If you enjoy historical settings, the Sisters of Ireland Mysteries are a good fit.
Within each series, it’s best to read in publication order, as relationships and subplots build from book to book.
Complete Book Series List
Here’s a complete checklist of Carlene O’Connor’s works to date:
- Irish Village Mysteries (10 books, 2016–2024; ongoing)
- Home to Ireland Mysteries (3 books, 2022–2024; ongoing)
- Sisters of Ireland Mysteries (1 book so far, 2024–ongoing)
- Anthology contributions & novellas (holiday collections, short works)
This list makes it easy for readers to track every title in her expanding bibliography.
Upcoming and Latest Release
Carlene O’Connor continues to release new titles each year.
Her most recent book is Butcher Lane (2024) in the Home to Ireland Mysteries.
The latest Irish Village installment, Murder at an Irish Chipper (2024), also released this year. Both series remain active, and more titles are expected in 2025 and beyond.
FAQs
Here are some common questions and answers about Carlene O’Connor books in order.
How many Carlene O’Connor books are there?
As of 2024, she has published more than 15 books across three main series.
Is the Irish Village series finished?
No, it is ongoing with new titles still being released.
What order should I read Carlene O’Connor books?
Read each series in publication order for the best character and story development.
Do the series overlap?
No, each series has its own cast and storyline, though they share Irish settings and themes.
What genre does Carlene O’Connor write?
She writes cozy mysteries, contemporary Irish mysteries, and historical mysteries.
Is Carlene O’Connor a pen name?
Yes, she writes under a pen name, though she is widely recognized in the cozy mystery community.
Related Series You May Like
Fans of Carlene O’Connor often enjoy other cozy and Irish-themed mysteries, such as Sheila Connolly’s Irish Village Mysteries, Connie Berry’s Kate Hamilton Mysteries, and Leslie Budewitz’s Food Lovers’ Village Mysteries.