Step into the charming yet thrilling world of Big Lake, where Arizona’s White Mountains hide secrets as deep as their pine forests! The Big Lake series by Nick Russell blends small-town coziness with pulse-pounding mysteries, following Sheriff Jim Weber as he unravels crimes in a quirky mountain community. With its vivid characters and twisty plots, this self-published gem has hooked readers craving a mix of humor and suspense.
From armored car heists to mysterious arsons, Big Lake delivers stories that feel like a warm chat with a friend—until the clues start piling up. Russell’s knack for capturing the essence of rural Arizona makes every page a journey into a world where everyone knows your name, but not always your secrets.
How Big Lake Began
Nick Russell, a former newspaper publisher and full-time RVer, dreamed up Big Lake in 1998 while living in Arizona’s White Mountains. Inspired by the tight-knit community of Show Low, where he owned a local paper, Russell crafted the fictional town of Big Lake. His wife, Terry, urged him to turn his vivid dream of a mystery miniseries into a novel. After years of hesitation, he self-published Big Lake in 2011 via Kindle, and its instant success as an Amazon bestseller launched a prolific series. Russell’s nomadic lifestyle, chronicled in his Gypsy Journal RV newsletter, infused the books with authentic Southwestern flavor.
The Heart of Big Lake
The series kicks off with Big Lake (2011), where Sheriff Jim Weber investigates a deadly armored car hijacking that rocks the sleepy town. The plot twists through deceit, survivalists, and sordid secrets, ending with a jaw-dropping revelation. Big Lake Lynching (2012) tackles a gruesome murder tied to racial tensions, while Big Lake Blizzard (2013) pits Weber against a killer during a brutal winter storm. Big Lake Shootout (2020), the 20th installment, centers on a fatal mishap during a Wild West reenactment, keeping readers guessing until the final page.
Russell’s stories weave themes of community, justice, and hidden truths, set against the rugged beauty of the White Mountains. The town of Big Lake feels alive, with eccentric locals like crusty barmaids and feuding neighbors adding humor and heart. Often described as “Mayberry Meets Twin Peaks,” the series balances cozy small-town vibes with gritty crime, making it a standout in the mystery genre. Russell’s straightforward prose and knack for dialogue bring characters to life, while his self-publishing savvy ensures each book feels polished and engaging.
Why Big Lake Resonates
The Big Lake series has carved a niche among mystery fans, thanks to Russell’s authentic storytelling and relatable characters. Its self-publishing success—propelled by Kindle and Russell’s loyal RV community—proves the power of grassroots marketing. Fans on Goodreads and Amazon praise the series for its immersive setting and unpredictable plots, with many calling it a love letter to Arizona’s small towns. With over 20 books and counting, Big Lake continues to captivate readers who crave mysteries with heart and humor.
- First Book Published: 2011
- Total Books: 21 (as of 2025)
- Setting: White Mountains, Arizona
- Genre: Mystery/Thriller
Grab Big Lake and dive into a mystery world where Arizona’s mountains hide secrets worth uncovering!