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This series is an excellent example of why I love reading series books. The characters, especially Adrien and Jake are revealed slowly over the course of the series. Learning about them is like peeling back the layers of an onion. At the end of each book, I feel differently about the characters (especially Jake!) based on what I have learned about them.
And, of course, this series wouldn’t be on my favorite mysteries lists if the mysteries themselves weren’t compelling. I’m a really harsh judge of books set in my backyard, and this series takes place about as close to my backyard as one can get. Josh Lanyon really captures the feel of contemporary LA, yet still casts a noir feel. Also, the mysteries themselves keep me guessing. On the couple where I guessed “whodunit” the “how” and the “why” kept me turning pages.
Read more about the Adrien English Mysteries in my posts: Josh Lanyon’s Adrien English Mysteries post, Best Reads of 2008 (part 2-M/M and Spec Fiction edition) and November 2008 Best Reads.
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I’m always a sucker for a free book, and last year St Martin’s press very wisely gave away the first two books in this series. I actually wound up listening to most of this series, but I would never have checked it out in the first place without the “freebie” incentive.
Like the Adrien English series, this one has equally compelling characters and plot. Again, the characters —and their relationship—are developed slowly over many books. Our assumptions based on their roles (Clare’s as Episcopal priest and Russ’ as police chief) are challenged as we get to know the humans inside the priest’s collar and uniform.
Location, too, is as important as any character in this series. I love how JS-F evokes rural upstate New York, sometimes with it’s seasons or terrain playing a vital role in the mystery.
Read more about the Rev. Clare Fergusson and Russ Van Alstyne series in these posts: Best Reads of 2008 (part 1-Mystery and YA edition)
- Julia Spencer-Fleming’s site.
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This is a series I have read for years, and yes, I’ve read A is for Alibi through T is for Trespass. Kinsey is one of those characters that over the years has become very real to me. Also, I love how Sue Grafton continues to try new things with the series, thus avoiding stagnation. It’s pretty ambitious to take on a 26 book series, which is expected when the books are named for the alphabet.
In fact, the last book released, T is for Trespass really broke new ground, with the book’s story structure (divided pov between Kinsey and a sociopathic serial killer) as well as it’s much darker than usual tone. (Necessary because of the villian’s pov.)
I can’t wait for U is for Undertow, which will be released in December 2009.
Read more about the Alphabet series in my post: Underground by Kat Richardson
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DISCLAIMER: Lord John currently resides in my hut over at DIK, so I am a little biased when it comes to this gentleman sleuth. 
This series is a little different for me, since I felt I already knew Lord John quite well through Diana Gabaldon’s Outlander series before I read the Lord John series.
However, not only do we get to find out more about what happens to Lord John between his appearances in the Outlander books, but these mysteries include the same incredible historical detail that I’ve come to enjoy in DG’s books.
Additionally, there is no shying away from the dangerous reality on what it meant to live as a gay man in the military in 18th century Europe. The author’s research is apparent, but it is also blended seamlessly with an absorbing mystery, and wonderful character development. I’ve really been looking forward to Lord John and the Scottish Prisoner, which is the upcoming installment, but I haven’t been able to find a publication date.
Read more about the Lord John series in my post: Best Reads of 2008 (part 1-Mystery and YA edition)
- Diana Gabaldon’s site.
- Very cool podcast by Diana Gabaldon about Lord John is available on her podcasts page.
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Another historical mystery, blending two of my favorite genres!
I actually had a bumpy start with this series, which I first listened to on audiobook. Fortunately, once I realized that my issue was with the narrator, my enjoyment of Deanna Raybourn’s writing increased dramatically.
Lady Julia is a great study in contrasts. She intelligent, witty, and an independent thinker. Yet, especially at the beginning of the series, a woman who still has a lot to discover about herself. I love that while she unravels the mysteries in each book, she is also learning about herself.
And, of course, there’s Brisbane. Mysterious, moody, and maddening, his chemistry with Lady Julia always sizzles beneath the surface.
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