Step into the misty, murder-filled world of the Hays and Lyons series, where Ireland’s lush landscapes hide dark secrets! Crafted by David Pearson, this gripping Irish crime series follows Detective Inspector Mick Hays and Detective Sergeant Maureen Lyons as they unravel chilling mysteries in rural Galway. With clever plots and a vivid sense of place, it’s a must-read for fans of atmospheric whodunits.
From the rugged Connemara coast to quaint villages, the series blends cozy crime with a gritty edge, showcasing Ireland’s beauty and its shadowy underbelly. Whether you’re a mystery buff or just love a good story, Hays and Lyons will keep you guessing!
How Hays and Lyons Began
David Pearson, an Irish author and avid crime fiction fan, launched the Hays and Lyons series in 2018 with Murder on the Old Bog Road. Inspired by his love for Connemara’s wild landscapes and authors like Ann Cleeves, Pearson wanted to craft authentic Irish police procedurals. His goal? To bring Galway’s charm and its hidden dangers to life through the dynamic duo of Hays, an ambitious team leader, and Lyons, a sharp-eyed risk-taker.
A keen photographer, Pearson draws on his visits to Connemara to infuse his stories with rich, evocative settings. Published by The Book Folks, the series quickly gained a loyal following for its relatable characters and twisty plots, growing into a 15-book saga that’s perfect for binge-reading.
The Heart of Hays and Lyons
The series kicks off with Murder on the Old Bog Road, where a woman’s body in a ditch sparks a complex investigation involving a sex worker and a web of lies. In Murder at the Old Cottage, the second book, Hays and Lyons probe the brutal death of an elderly man, uncovering ties to Ireland’s criminal underworld. Murder on the West Coast tackles a botched kidnapping, while Murder at the Races dives into a bookmaker’s killing during Galway’s famous horse races.
Pearson’s stories weave themes of justice, human nature, and the clash between rural tranquility and crime. The series’ strength lies in its vivid settings—think windswept bogs and cozy pubs—paired with intricate plots that balance red herrings and satisfying resolutions. Fans praise the chemistry between Hays, the steady strategist, and Lyons, the bold detective with a knack for being in the right place at the right time.
The series also explores the unique challenges of policing in rural Ireland, from logistical hurdles to tight-knit communities where secrets simmer. With a light touch of romance and humor, Pearson crafts cozy yet thrilling mysteries that feel both timeless and fresh.
Why Hays and Lyons Resonates
The Hays and Lyons series has carved a niche in crime fiction, blending Ireland’s scenic allure with gritty investigations. Fans on Goodreads and Amazon rave about its relatable characters and immersive settings, often comparing it to a TV procedural you can’t stop watching. The series’ focus on rural Ireland sets it apart, offering a fresh perspective in a genre often dominated by urban settings.
Its growing popularity—spanning 15 books and counting—speaks to Pearson’s knack for storytelling that’s both accessible and engaging. For readers seeking a cozy escape with a dose of suspense, Hays and Lyons delivers, making it a hidden gem in modern crime fiction.
- Publication Start: 2018
- Number of Books: 15
- Setting: Galway and Connemara, Ireland
- Genre: Cozy crime, police procedural
Ready to unravel a mystery in Ireland’s wild west? Grab Murder on the Old Bog Road and dive into the thrilling world of Hays and Lyons today!