Connolly, known for blending crime elements with the supernatural, advocates for incorporating hope into his works, distancing himself from the absolute cynicism sometimes found in darker genres. In a conversation held in Malaga, the author highlighted the greater empathy and tolerance he perceives in Spain towards genre fiction, contrasting it with the tension that still exists in Ireland between literary and genre fiction.
The novel Eva's Children tackles themes such as human trafficking and organized crime, inspired by the author's personal experiences in Latin America, particularly in Argentina, Peru, and Mexico. Connolly noted the connection between Latin American and Irish imagination, especially in their relationship with myths and the supernatural.
The writer emphasized his goal is to entertain readers without preaching, trusting their intelligence to explore social and moral issues subtly. He explained that Charlie Parker, his protagonist for over two decades, has evolved from a man consumed by grief to a figure defined by empathy and the need to act against evil, understanding that inaction can also be complicity.
“"My character finally understands that doing nothing can also be a form of complicity, and that is very important."
Connolly revealed he is preparing the conclusion to the Charlie Parker saga, aiming to provide a fitting end to the novels' overarching narrative and considering a future television adaptation. He attributes the uniqueness of his stories to his Irish roots and his interest in redemption, guilt, and spirituality.
He distinguishes between crime novels, which he believes lack hope, and detective novels, where he feels characters' actions can improve the world. "I don't want to read novels without hope, and I don't want to write them either," he stated, emphasizing the fundamental difference in perspective and outcome between the two.
