Oh this was a heartbreaking novel. Tara is release from prison, and as her family tries to reconnect, secrets unravel. This book focused on family relationships, secrets, and the things we would do to save our family. Theres characters were not necessarily likeable, but that's family isn't it? They were real, with real flaws, and real problems. The characteristics of some family members may feel out of place, until their secrets unravel and you learn what they have been hiding. Overall a wonderful book that had real, honest characters. Mix of character development and plot driven.

I'm honestly not sure how I feel about this book. I loved how Geraldine, Tara, and Eddie rallied around each other when they struggled. They had no issues calling another one out kindly when they were wrong, which I appreciated. I love how Tara would protect her family no matter what happened to her. I liked the fairy tales their mother used to tell them. I thought they were really sweet. However, the detective sending money to Tara while she was an inmate, picking her up when she got out of jail, and then basically courting her was just too far-fetched for me. Maybe it is because of the field I work in, but I just couldn't do it.

I still recommend this book if you like all the other things that I mentioned that I loved. Also, Connor's jokes were my favorite part of the book. Seriously, they were great!!

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with an advance copy of The Connellys of County Down by Tracey Lange in exchange for my honest review and opinion. I love a good family drama and this has all the characters that keep you turning the pages as fast as you can.to see how it ends. I am so excited for all my friends to read this so we can talk about it as it's that darn good!

I found this book to be just ok. I didn't find any aspect of the story to be out of this world for me. It is essentially a family story about siblings and it is heartwarming in parts however just not enough to move me and consider it fantastic. Lange does a good job of showing the lengths that we will go to for the people we love.

After serving time for a drug charge, Tara returns to the home she shares with her brother, sister, and nephew. She tries to get her life back on track, but a combination of long-simmering family tensions, a budding romance, and a cop who won’t seem to leave her alone makes it difficult for her to find her footing. This is a family dysfunction story about siblings who each carry their own form of trauma from their shared history. And of course nobody talks to each other, which is really the crux of the story. This was well-written, but quiet - more focused on the relationships between people than the plot. There IS a plot, but it’s probably the least compelling aspect of the book.

This was a generally okay character driven novel. I enjoyed it but feel like it's easily forgettable. I appreciate the opportunity to give it a read.

This book begins with Tara being released from prison after she served time for transporting drugs. She goes home to her sister, brother and nephew and is trying to restart her life while juggling family issues, a budding romance with the person who put her in jail and a cop who is still out to get her.
I didn’t know what to expect when I started this book and I was pleasantly surprised. Tara’s post prison experiences felt real (aside from the love interest element), but seeing her trying to figure out how to navigate the world after prison time was an experience so many women have. As I read the parts of the story focused on her sister’s issues I could feel the anxiety building in my chest. She was written so well and you could feel her struggle. This is absolutely a book worth reading.

This was definitely a book that was out of my general reading genre but I am so glad that I had a chance to read this as a book club read. The characters, while flawed, were still a family, and you can see them grow over the course of the book. Overall, I really enjoyed this and will be looking into what other books the author has coming out

Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for an advance reader's copy of this novel.

The Connellys of County Down was an enjoyable follow-up to We Are the Brennans, which I really liked. I love these fairly quiet novels that are primarily character-driven. Ultimately, the novel was a bit forgettable, however. I will read more from this author in the future.

The Connellys feel like a real fully developed family albeit a dysfunctional one. There's Tara who just got released from prison, her older brother Eddie is a single dad dealing with a brain injury, and her older sister Geraldine is a bossy control freak. Some times siblings are hard to get along with, and these siblings definitely have a lot going on. Come here for the family drama, and stay for the cute kid jokes.

This book was so stunningly beautiful! It showed the absolute resilience of a family. Having grown up in a trauma filled home the Connellys have stuck together into adulthood. They have their fair share of drama and trauma now too but they always count on one another to get through it. I loooove Tara so much. I relate to her a lot and could see myself doing similar things and making the same choices in her situation.

Thank you netgalley for the earc in exchange for an honest review.

Thank you, Netgalley, the author, and Celadon Books for the gifted e-book/audiobook! ❤️ #gifted. My review is comprised of my honest thoughts.

Read this book if you like: Family dynamics, family drama, multiple POV

I could not put this down. I love Tracey's writing. I will read anything she writes. It pulls me in and keeps me there. The characters are fascinating and dynamic. The stories are so engaging. I highly recommend this!

“The Connellys of County Down” by Tracey Lange and while this may be my first Lange novel, it won’t be my last. I love novels that pack in heavy family drama and baggage.

Siblings Eddie and Geraldine have to cope with their sister’s Tara’s release from prison. 18-months has passed since Tara’s incarceration, yet the family never really moved forward with their new normal.

As the Connelly’s story unfolded, I found myself both loving and loathing their character arcs. Mostly because I really wanted their family dynamic to win in the end. As a reader, we see all the POVs, so it’s hard to sit back and let things play out, you know? You want what’s best for the characters and can’t tell them anything … because … um they’re not real people 😆

“The Connelly’s of County Down” is the perfect book for readers looking for an emotionally charged and inspiring story about loyalty, love, and redemption, while focusing on the complexities of sibling relationships and the challenges of starting anew.

"The Connellys of County Down" by Tracey Lange is a poignant exploration of redemption, family bonds, and the complexities of rebuilding one's life after a tumultuous past. This emotionally charged novel earns a solid four stars for its gripping narrative and well-crafted characters.

The story follows Tara Connelly, who, after serving eighteen months on a drug charge, faces the daunting task of starting afresh at the age of thirty. Lange skillfully delves into Tara's struggles as she returns home to her siblings, each dealing with their own challenges. The portrayal of her brother coping with a brain injury and her sister concealing deep secrets adds layers to the narrative, creating a rich tapestry of family dynamics.

The unexpected reemergence of the cop who played a pivotal role in Tara's incarceration introduces an element of suspense and intrigue. The author navigates this complex relationship with finesse, leaving readers guessing about the cop's motives and adding an extra layer of tension to Tara's already complicated life.

Lange excels in capturing the essence of familial love and loyalty, testing the boundaries of these connections in the face of adversity. As Tara strives to rebuild her life and pursue a new career, the novel explores themes of resilience and the possibility of finding love in unexpected places.

The unraveling of the Connellys' secrets serves as a powerful catalyst for self-discovery and growth. The narrative skillfully navigates the characters' journeys as they confront harsh truths and face the consequences of their actions. This adds a layer of authenticity to the story, making it relatable and thought-provoking.

"The Connellys of County Down" is more than a tale of redemption; it's a nuanced exploration of human relationships and the intricate dance between forgiveness and honesty. Lange beautifully captures the pitfalls of shielding loved ones from the truth, making this novel a moving and emotionally resonant read.

In conclusion, Tracey Lange delivers a compelling and emotionally charged narrative in "The Connellys of County Down." This novel is a testament to the strength of familial bonds and the possibility of finding hope and love amidst life's challenges. It's a story that lingers, reminding readers of the power of honesty and the enduring nature of family ties.

I went into this one having NO IDEA what the book was even about...and I was not fully expecting a contemporary tale about a group of siblings learning to navigate life after one of them is released from prison. Each sibling has their fair share of secrets and troubles, and together they learn to trust each other and themselves again.
I really loved experiencing Tara's reentry into the world and her struggles to find a job, romance, and fix her relationships with her siblings. I absolutely LOVED her relationship with her nephew and how that expanded her relationship with her older brother.
Usually character driven stories are not my thing, but I actually really enjoyed reading this one.

I want to preface this by saying I have yet to read Lange’s previous (and highly praised) book, We Are the Brennans, so I cannot compare the two at all. That being said, because I know so many loved her first book, I had high expectations for this one. Unfortunately, while this family drama was intriguing enough to keep me reading, it ultimately fell a little flat for me.

In The Connellys of County Down, the book opens with Tara being released from prison after an 18 month sentence for drug trafficking. We figure out early on that she had her reasons for doing time instead of turning over information to the police. Tara, now needing to rebuild her life, returns to her childhood home where she will live with her sister and brother and nephew. But Tara isn’t the only one with skeletons in her closet. Her siblings are also carrying around the weight of their own secrets. Secrets that are bound to start unraveling and could undoubtedly jeopardize all of their futures.

I enjoyed the story. I could even get behind the love story that Tara gets wrapped up in after prison. But I just needed something more…more fleshing out of the characters perhaps? And a little more depth in the story over all as this felt like a surface read and I was not as invested in the characters as I like to be in family dramas.

3 ⭐️ story, but 5 ⭐️ for the gorgeous cover!

I love stories that center on families. I previously read and enjoyed Tracey Lange’s We are the Brennans, so was excited to receive an ARC of her 2023 title The Connellys of County Down. I discussed the book with friends and we all gave it high ratings.

The story opens with Tara’s release from Taconic Correctional Facility. She had been imprisoned for almost a year and a half, convicted of transporting stolen opioids over state lines. Unemployed and broke, Tara moves into her childhood home with her sister Geraldine, brother Eddie, and nephew Connor. Their relationships are loving but dysfunctional.

Lange is skilled with character development, making each family member feel real. The best written character is Geraldine. Responsible to the point of controlling and critical of everyone who fails to live up to her high standards, Geraldine is not at all likeable. Knowing her back story and the reasons for her behavior made me sympathetic, but she remained a person I would do my best to avoid in real life.

In contrast, Tara and Eddie are big hearted characters that I wanted to succeed.

This story of family loyalty and sacrifice, secrets and guilt, is a great pick to read with a book club.

4.5 Stars rounded up.

How gorgeous is this cover? I wanted to read it as soon as I saw the cover without knowing anything else about the book!

If you enjoy family dramas, don't miss this book. It follows the three Connelly siblings after Tara is released from prison. Each sibling - Liam, Caitlin, and Tara - have their own issues they are dealing with, and none of them truly realize what their other siblings are going through.. Ms. Lange writes beautifully and I enjoyed spending time with this family as they worked to understand themselves and each other.

"The Connellys of County Down" by Tracey Lange is a heartwarming and multigenerational family saga that transports readers to the picturesque landscapes of Ireland. Lange skillfully weaves a tapestry of love, loss, and resilience, following the Connelly family across decades. The characters are vividly drawn, each carrying the weight of their own dreams and struggles. The novel's rich historical backdrop adds depth to the narrative, creating an immersive experience. With lyrical prose and a deep understanding of human connections, Lange creates a captivating story that celebrates the enduring bonds of family and the power of home. "The Connellys of County Down" is a poignant and uplifting literary journey.

"The Connellys of County Down" by Tracey Lange is a captivating and poignant family saga that delves into the complexities of sibling relationships, loyalty, and the power of secrets. This engaging novel tells the story of the Connelly siblings - Liam, Caitlin, and Tara - as they strive to rebuild their lives and reconcile their pasts in the wake of Tara's release from prison.

Lange's writing is masterful, weaving a narrative that's both heart-wrenching and uplifting. With a keen eye for detail, she skillfully exposes the raw emotions and deep-seated conflicts that have long haunted the Connelly family. Through the characters' trials and tribulations, Lange thoughtfully explores themes of guilt, forgiveness, and redemption, creating a rich and relatable story that resonates deeply.

The Connelly siblings are expertly crafted, each with their own unique voice and struggles. Liam, the eldest, carries the weight of responsibility and loyalty, while Caitlin's quiet strength belies her inner turmoil. Tara, the youngest, must confront the consequences of her past choices and the resentment they've fostered. The characters' interactions are authentic and nuanced, making their journeys both individually and collectively compelling.

One of the novel's greatest strengths lies in its exploration of the intricate web of sibling relationships. Lange captures the deep-seated bonds, unspoken understandings, and unresolved tensions that exist between the Connelly siblings. As they navigate their complicated history, the author shines a light on the ways in which our experiences shape us and the power of forgiveness to transform our lives.

The setting of County Down, Ireland, provides a stunning backdrop for the story, with Lange's vivid descriptions evoking the region's rugged beauty and the cultural heritage that defines the Connelly family.



The author's use of language is masterful, with a writing style that's both lyrical and accessible. The narrative flows effortlessly, making it easy to become fully immersed in the story. Lange's ability to craft a compelling plot, coupled with her insightful characterizations, makes for a truly engaging reading experience.



One of the most striking aspects of "The Connellys of County Down" is its exploration of the complexities of family dynamics. The author shines a light on the ways in which our families shape us, both positively and negatively, and the lasting impact that our early experiences have on our adult lives. Through the Connelly siblings, Lange illustrates the power of sibling relationships and the ways in which our connections with our family members can be both a source of strength and a source of pain.



The novel also raises important questions about guilt, responsibility, and redemption. Through Tara's character, Lange explores the consequences of our actions and the ways in which we can make amends for past mistakes. The author shows that forgiveness is a journey, one that requires effort and understanding from all parties involved.



In conclusion, "The Connellys of County Down" by Tracey Lange is a remarkable and moving novel that will resonate with readers long after they finish the book. With its well-crafted characters, engaging plot, and thought-provoking themes, this book is a must-read for fans of family dramas and literary fiction. Lange's writing is both heartfelt and insightful, making her a powerful voice in contemporary fiction..