Maggie McConnon is a pen name for the American author Maggie Barbieri, who is well-known for her cozy mystery novels. McConnon grew up in a traditional Irish-American household in New York, where Irish culture played a significant role in her upbringing. Her family was full of Irish musicians who would play traditional Irish songs during family gatherings, and McConnon herself was an Irish stepdancer. These experiences and the stories her grandparents told her about their homeland have been a significant source of inspiration for her writing, particularly for her Belfast McGrath series.\n \n McConnon's work is characterized by her ability to weave intricate mystery plots with the warmth and humor of Irish culture. Her writing is informed by her own experiences growing up in a close-knit Irish-American family, and she uses her platform to celebrate and explore the rich traditions and stories of her heritage. Her Belfast McGrath series, in particular, has been praised for its authentic portrayal of Irish culture and its engaging and entertaining mysteries. McConnon's ability to transport readers to a different world, full of intrigue and charm, has made her a beloved author in the cozy mystery genre.