Step into the sultry, mysterious world of the Andy Broussard & Kit Franklyn series, where New Orleans’ vibrant streets pulse with forensic intrigue and supernatural whispers! Penned by D.J. Donaldson, this forensic mystery series pairs the shrewd, food-loving medical examiner Andy Broussard with the sharp, curious psychologist Kit Franklyn. Together, they unravel chilling crimes in the Big Easy, blending science, suspense, and Louisiana’s unique charm.
From voodoo curses to deadly viruses, these novels capture the heart of New Orleans’ dark allure, making every page a thrilling adventure. Whether you’re a mystery buff or a fan of rich, atmospheric settings, Broussard and Franklyn’s dynamic chemistry will keep you hooked!
How Andy Broussard & Kit Franklyn Began
D.J. Donaldson, a Ph.D. in human anatomy and retired professor, launched the series in 1988 with Cajun Nights. Drawing on his forensic expertise, Donaldson crafted a world where science meets the supernatural, set against New Orleans’ evocative backdrop. His time at Tulane University sparked a love for the city’s sleazy, beautiful mystique, inspiring a series that feels both gritty and authentic.
Donaldson’s goal was to pioneer forensic scientists as protagonists, creating Broussard, a hefty, cerebral medical examiner, and Franklyn, a young psychologist tackling a male-dominated field. Their unlikely partnership, born from Donaldson’s fascination with anatomy and psychology, set the stage for a series that’s as smart as it is suspenseful.
The Heart of Andy Broussard & Kit Franklyn
The series spans eight books, each diving into New Orleans’ underbelly. Cajun Nights (1988) kicks things off with murder-suicides linked to a voodoo curse, as Broussard and Franklyn probe a case tied to a 1738 sorcerer’s spell. Blood on the Bayou (1991) ups the ante with French Quarter murders hinting at werewolf lore, showcasing Donaldson’s knack for blending folklore with forensics.
Louisiana Fever (1996) tackles an Ebola-like virus threatening the city, with Franklyn’s investigation leading to a deadly psychopath in the bayou. Bad Karma in the Big Easy (2013) explores post-Katrina New Orleans, where bodies in floodwaters reveal a sinister plot. Themes of science versus superstition, moral dilemmas, and the empowerment of women like Franklyn shine through, all wrapped in New Orleans’ humid, jazz-soaked atmosphere.
Donaldson’s prose is punchy and detailed, with autopsies vivid enough to rival Patricia Cornwell. The setting—swamps, French Quarter alleys, and Cajun restaurants—feels like a character itself, grounding the far-fetched plots in Louisiana’s cultural richness. Broussard’s love for food and Franklyn’s impulsive bravery add warmth and relatability to the chilling mysteries.
Why Andy Broussard & Kit Franklyn Resonates
The series carved a niche in forensic mysteries by blending cutting-edge science with New Orleans’ mystique, influencing later authors in the genre. Fans praise its authentic settings and well-developed characters, with Broussard and Franklyn’s mentor-student dynamic resonating deeply. Despite a 16-year hiatus, the series’ reissues by Astor + Blue and audiobook releases show its enduring appeal.
Its cult following cherishes the pre-cellphone era vibe, where clunky computers and manual forensics add nostalgic charm. The series’ exploration of ethical dilemmas and female empowerment through Franklyn’s growth continues to captivate readers, making it a hidden gem for mystery lovers.
- First Book: Cajun Nights (1988)
- Latest Book: Assassination at Bayou Sauvage (2017)
- Total Books: 8
- Author: D.J. Donaldson (also Don Donaldson)
Ready to dive into New Orleans’ dark side? Grab Cajun Nights and join Andy Broussard & Kit Franklyn’s thrilling forensic adventures!