The Lake District Mysteries series by Martin Edwards and Rebecca Tope are two distinct series of crime thriller/mystery novels set in the picturesque Lake District of England. These series offer readers a captivating blend of suspense, historical elements, and the stunning natural beauty of the region.
Martin Edwards’ Lake District Mysteries
Martin Edwards’ Lake District Mysteries series follows the investigations of DCI Hannah Scarlett and her collaborations with Oxford historian Daniel Kind. The series spans eight novels, each delving into a new mystery that unravels the dark secrets and complex relationships within the Lake District community.
- The Coffin Trail (2004)
- The Cipher Garden (2005)
- The Arsenic Labyrinth (2007)
- The Serpent Pool (2010)
- The Hanging Wood (2011)
- The Frozen Shroud (2013)
- The Dungeon House (2015)
- The Crooked Shore / The Girl They All Forgot (2021)
Rebecca Tope’s Lake District Mysteries
Rebecca Tope’s Lake District Mysteries series introduces readers to Simmy Brown, a florist who becomes an amateur sleuth, solving a series of intriguing cases in the picturesque region. The series currently spans fourteen novels, with the latest installment set to release in 2024.
- The Windermere Witness (2012)
- The Ambleside Alibi (2013)
- The Coniston Case (2014)
- The Troutbeck Testimony (2015)
- The Hawkshead Hostage (2016)
- The Bowness Bequest (2017)
- The Staveley Suspect (2018)
- The Grasmere Grudge (2019)
- The Patterdale Plot (2020)
- The Ullswater Undertaking (2021)
- The Threlkeld Theory (2022)
- The Askham Accusation (2023)
- The Borrowdale Body (2024)
- A Lake District Christmas Murder (2024)
Captivating Settings and Atmosphere
Both the Martin Edwards and Rebecca Tope series are set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Lake District, known for its stunning natural beauty, picturesque villages, and rich history. The authors skillfully weave the region’s charm and tranquility with the darker aspects of human nature, creating a captivating and suspenseful atmosphere that draws readers in.
Memorable Characters
The Lake District Mysteries series feature a cast of memorable characters, each with their own unique personalities and roles in the investigations. DCI Hannah Scarlett and Oxford historian Daniel Kind in Martin Edwards’ series, as well as Simmy Brown, the amateur sleuth in Rebecca Tope’s series, have become fan favorites, captivating readers with their intelligence, determination, and personal struggles.
Whether you’re a fan of classic crime fiction or simply enjoy the allure of the Lake District, the Lake District Mysteries series by Martin Edwards and Rebecca Tope offer a captivating and immersive reading experience that will leave you eager to explore the next mystery unfolding in this picturesque region.