New book from Kildare author is 'atmospheric mystery'
Among the Ruins, the latest book from Claire Coughlan is published by Simon & Schuster UK
A Co Kildare author is set to release a highly anticipated new novel this week, building on the success of her award-nominated debut.
Among the Ruins, the latest book from Claire Coughlan, will be published on April 23, 2026 by Simon & Schuster UK, with a recommended retail price of £14.99.
Coughlan, who lives in Kildare with her husband and daughter, previously worked as a journalist in Ireland and holds an MFA in Creative Writing from UCD. Her first novel, Where They Lie, was published in 2024 and shortlisted for the An Post Irish Crime Novel of the Year award.
The new novel is described as an atmospheric mystery set in Dublin during the summer of 1970. It follows Nicoletta Sarto, a journalist balancing her role as women’s editor at the Irish Sentinel with caring for her twin baby daughters.
The story begins when Nicoletta is approached by barrister Louise Leonard, who believes her aunt Helen Leonard may have been murdered. As Nicoletta investigates the case, she uncovers a complex mystery involving a missing nurse who was unexpectedly left everything in Helen’s will.
According to the publisher, the novel explores themes of truth, family pressures and societal expectations, particularly focusing on the challenges faced by working mothers in 1970s Ireland. As the investigation deepens, Nicoletta must navigate both personal and professional obstacles, while unaware of the danger surrounding her.
Coughlan’s debut novel received widespread critical acclaim, with author John Banville describing it as “a thrillingly dark and atmospheric tale, richly evocative of its time”. Writer Nicci French called it “a dark, gorgeously written thriller”, while Val McDermid praised its “atmospheric and absorbing” storytelling.
Further praise came from leading authors including Tana French, Roddy Doyle and Jo Spain, who highlighted the novel’s vivid depiction of Dublin and its exploration of complex social issues.
With Among the Ruins, Coughlan is expected to further establish herself as a rising voice in Irish crime fiction, offering readers another richly detailed and emotionally engaging story.
Claire Coughlan has worked as a journalist for the past 18 years, most recently writing for publications including BookBrunch.co.uk and the Sunday Independent.
Claire has an MFA in Creative Writing from UCD.
In 2017, she was mentored by crime novelist Tammy Cohen as part of the WoMentoring scheme.
She has previously been the recipient of Arts Council funding, as well as a literature bursary from Dublin City Council.
She has received mentoring as part of the Words Ireland mentoring programme, funded by Kildare Arts Service and the Arts Council.