Dive into the gritty, pulse-pounding world of the Annie Carter / Bailey series, where betrayal, ambition, and dangerous love collide in the smoky underworld of 1960s London! This crime thriller saga, penned by British author Jessie Keane, follows Annie Bailey, a street-smart survivor who claws her way from the shadows of her sister’s dominance to become a feared crime boss, Annie Carter. With its raw energy and unapologetic dive into London’s East End, this series is a must-read for fans of Martina Cole and Lynda La Plante.
Annie’s journey is no fairy tale—it’s a high-stakes gamble filled with cunning moves and heart-wrenching losses. Her story hooks you from the first page, blending intense drama with a vivid historical backdrop. Ready to meet a woman who rules a man’s world with grit and grace? Let’s explore Annie’s thrilling saga!
How Annie Carter / Bailey Began
Jessie Keane launched the Annie Carter / Bailey series in 2008 with her debut novel, Dirty Game, inspired by her fascination with London’s criminal underbelly during the 1960s and 70s. Keane’s research into the era’s organized crime syndicates shaped Annie, a character who embodies resilience and defiance. The series grew from Keane’s desire to craft a female protagonist who could hold her own against ruthless gangsters, blending raw authenticity with thrilling storytelling. Her vivid portrayal of London’s East End and its power struggles quickly won fans, establishing Keane as a standout voice in crime fiction.
The Heart of Annie Carter / Bailey
The series kicks off with Dirty Game (2008), where Annie Bailey, overshadowed by her sister Ruthie, navigates a treacherous path after Ruthie seduces Max Carter, a feared crime lord. Annie’s resourcefulness leads her to a dangerous life, caught between rival gangs. In Black Widow (2009), Annie, now married to Max and living in Majorca, faces a devastating kidnapping of her daughter, Layla, forcing her back to London to rally the Carter firm. Scarlet Women (2009) sees Annie as an East End madam, tackling a serial killer targeting her allies, while Ruthless (2013) pits her against the vengeful Delaney twins, who threaten her family’s survival.
Themes of loyalty, power, and survival pulse through the series, set against a vividly drawn 1960s London, where smoky clubs and dark alleys hide deadly secrets. Keane’s style is gritty yet accessible, with fast-paced plots and complex characters like fiery Dolly and the menacing Max Carter. Annie’s evolution from a vulnerable outsider to a commanding figure explores the cost of ambition in a male-dominated world, making her a compelling anti-heroine.
Why Annie Carter / Bailey Resonates
The Annie Carter / Bailey series captivates readers with its unflinching look at a woman defying societal norms to seize power. Fans praise its addictive drama and relatable, flawed characters, often comparing Keane’s storytelling to Martina Cole’s raw intensity. The series’ blend of historical crime and strong female leads has carved a niche in the genre, inspiring readers who crave stories of resilience and retribution. Its cult following continues to grow, fueled by Annie’s unyielding spirit and Keane’s knack for suspense.
- First Book: Dirty Game (2008)
- Total Books: 6
- Author: Jessie Keane
- Setting: 1960s–70s London
Grab Dirty Game and step into Annie Carter’s electrifying world of crime, courage, and cunning today!