Cora Harrison

Cora Harrison is an Irish author known primarily for her historical crime fiction and children's novels. She has written extensively about medieval Ireland, particularly in her Burren Mystery series set in 16th century western Ireland. Harrison draws on her background as a former teacher and headmistress to craft educational historical fiction for young readers. Her children's works include the London Murder Mysteries series, the Jane Austen series for teens, and the Drumshee Timeline books about Irish history. The Burren Mystery series, featuring Mara the Brehon Judge, represents her most acclaimed work and demonstrates her deep knowledge of ancient Irish law and customs. These novels combine detailed historical settings with complex murder mysteries set against the backdrop of the distinctive Burren landscape in County Clare. Harrison has also authored the Reverend Mother Mystery series set in 1920s Cork, as well as standalone historical novels. Her work consistently reflects thorough historical research and an emphasis on Irish settings, culture, and legal systems.

Readers praise Harrison's detailed portrayal of historical Ireland, particularly the legal system and social customs in her Burren Mystery series. Reviews highlight her ability to create atmospheric settings in medieval Ireland without overwhelming the plot. What readers liked: - Accurate historical details and educational value - Complex but solvable mysteries - Strong female protagonists, especially Mara - Clear explanations of Brehon law - Rich descriptions of Irish landscape and culture What readers disliked: - Slow pacing in some books - Too many characters to track - Occasional repetitive plot elements - Some find the historical details too dense Ratings across platforms: - Goodreads: Burren series averages 4.0/5 stars - Amazon: Most titles maintain 4.2-4.5/5 stars - Reader reviews note she's "less well-known than she deserves" One reader on Goodreads states: "Harrison brings 16th century Ireland alive without drowning the mystery in historical minutiae." An Amazon reviewer notes: "The legal aspects are fascinating but some conversations feel like history lessons."

The Burren Mysteries Series: My Lady Judge - In 16th century Ireland, Mara, a woman judge of the Burren, investigates the death of a local goldsmith. Michaelmas Tribute - Mara must solve the murder of a village steward while dealing with political tensions in medieval Ireland. Sting of Justice - A law student's death during the harvest season leads Mara into an investigation involving ancient Irish laws. Writ in Stone - Mara investigates when a scholar is found dead at the base of a round tower near her law school. Eye of the Law - The murder of a priest coincides with King Turlough's visit to the Burren region.

The London Murder Mysteries: A Shameful Murder - Reverend Mother Aquinas investigates a young woman's death in 1920s Cork. A Shocking Assassination - The murder of a treaty negotiator draws Reverend Mother into political intrigue. Beyond Absolution - Reverend Mother looks into the death of a priest found at a Cork church altar.

Young Adult Series: I Was Jane Austen's Best Friend - A fictional diary of Jane Austen's cousin, Jenny Cooper, in 1791. Jane Austen Stole My Boyfriend - Jenny Cooper's continued story as she navigates romance in Georgian England. The Debutantes - Four sisters attempt to save their ancestral home in 1920s England.

Drumshee Chronicles: Caroline's Battle - A young girl faces challenges during Ireland's Great Famine. Nuala's Story - Chronicles life in 16th century Ireland through the eyes of a young servant girl. Smoke Over Drumshee - Follows the story of a family during the Cromwellian invasion of Ireland.

Ellis Peters writes medieval mysteries featuring a Benedictine monk detective, with detailed historical settings in 12th century England. Her Brother Cadfael series combines murder investigations with herb lore and monastery life.

Peter Tremayne creates mysteries set in 7th century Ireland starring Sister Fidelma, a dalaigh who solves crimes using ancient Brehon law. His work incorporates Celtic history and legal systems into complex murder cases.

Pat McIntosh sets crime stories in 15th century Glasgow featuring Gilbert Cunningham, a young legal student who investigates murders. The series emphasizes Scottish medieval culture and law practices.

Candace Robb writes about Owen Archer, a one-eyed spy and detective in 14th century York under real historical figures. Her plots weave together political intrigue, medieval medicine, and murder mysteries.

Margaret Frazer centers her mysteries on Dame Frevisse, a nun detective in 15th century England who solves murders within monastery walls. The series depicts daily medieval convent life while exploring criminal investigations.