New Irish Thriller Authors
Ireland has long been a hotbed of literary talent, and the thriller genre is no exception. While established names like John Connolly and Tana French continue to dominate bookshelves, a new wave of Irish authors is making waves in the world of suspense and crime fiction. Here I would like to explore some of the emerging voices that are keeping readers on the edge of their seats.
Catherine Ryan Howard burst onto the scene with her debut novel “Distress Signals” in 2016. Since then, she’s continued to impress with psychological thrillers like “The Liar’s Girl” and “56 Days,” the latter a claustrophobic tale set during the COVID-19 lockdown. Howard’s keen eye for contemporary issues and taut plotting mark her as one in the vanguard of the newer wave of gifted authors.
Another rising star is Dervla McTiernan, whose Cormac Reilly series has garnered international critical acclaim. Beginning with “The Ruin,” McTiernan crafts intricate police procedurals set in Galway, blending complex characters with richly detailed settings. Her work showcases the depth and nuance possible within the thriller genre.
Jo Spain has quickly established herself as a versatile talent, penning both standalone thrillers and the popular Tom Reynolds series. Her novel “The Perfect Lie” demonstrates her ability to craft twisty, unpredictable narratives that keep readers guessing until the final page.
For those who enjoy a dash of humor with their suspense, Andrea Carter’s Inishowen Mysteries offer a unique blend of cozy and thriller elements. Set on the rugged Inishowen Peninsula, these books feature solicitor Ben O’Keeffe solving crimes in a tight-knit community.
Sam Blake, the pen name of Vanessa Fox O’Loughlin, has made a significant impact with her Cat Connolly trilogy and standalone thrillers. Blake’s background in the publishing industry shines through in her meticulously plotted novels, such as “Little Bones” and “The Dark Room,” which combine police procedural elements with psychological suspense.
Olivia Kiernan brings a fresh perspective to the police procedural with her DCS Frankie Sheehan series. Beginning with “Too Close to Breathe,” Kiernan’s novels are known for their intricate plots, forensic detail, and complex female lead characters. Her writing style balances gritty realism with lyrical prose, creating a unique voice in the genre.
Last but not least, William Ryan may be best known for his historical novels, but his foray into contemporary thrillers with “The Winter Guest” showcases his versatility. Set in rural Ireland, this atmospheric thriller demonstrates Ryan’s ability to create a palpable sense of place and explore the dark undercurrents of seemingly idyllic communities.
These authors represent just a fraction of the exciting new voices in Irish thriller writing. As they continue to hone their craft and push the boundaries of the genre, readers can look forward to many sleepless nights spent turning pages. The future of Irish thrillers is bright, promising fresh perspectives and heart-pounding stories for years to come.