Siobhan O’Sullivan is a relatively new garda, a police officer on the force in her small village of Kilbane in County Cork, Ireland. She is excited to work the upcoming festival and the major poker tournament that has brought so many tourists and guests to the village. But it’s not long before one of the poker stars find themselves holding a hand that included the 8 of clubs, 8 of spades, ace of clubs, and ace of spades, also known as the Dead Man’s Hand.

When Siobhan finds that same poker star hanging in a store room in a local pub the next morning, she has to struggle to get past the locked door to get to him. Clearly, he was alone, as there is no way to leave the room and lock the deadbolt. But every instinct that Siobhan has points to murder. Will she be able to find the killer in time to save the festival, or will the death be ruled a suicide, allowing the killer to get away?

Murder in an Irish Pub is the fourth in this series by Carlene O’Connor about Siobhan, all her brothers and sisters, and her instincts for truth and justice. I enjoy reading cozies, but to me the best cozies are the ones about strong women who I’d love to sit down with and share a cup of tea or a beer with. And Siobhan is definitely a woman I’d like to call a friend. Murder in an Irish Pub was the first book in this series that I’ve read, but it certainly won’t be the last. This is definitely a character I want to spend some time with.

Murder in an Irish Pub is a cozy that has it all: a likable main character, a compelling crime, lots of interesting family and friends, really good writing, maybe a little romance, and a strong ending. Plus, it’s set in Ireland. What could be better?

Galleys for Murder in an Irish Pub were provided by Kensington through NetGalley, with many thanks.