Step into the gritty, supernatural streets of London with the Bo Blackman series, where rookie private investigator Bo Blackman tackles vampires, daemons, and her own identity crisis with sass and determination! Written by Helen Harper, this urban fantasy saga blends pulse-pounding mystery with a deeply human struggle, making it a hidden gem for fans of paranormal adventures.
In this five-book journey, Bo navigates a city teeming with supernatural beings while trying to cling to her humanity. From blood-soaked betrayals to life-altering choices, the series hooks you with its vivid setting and a heroine who’s as flawed as she is fierce. Ready to explore Bo’s world? Let’s dive in!
How Bo Blackman Began
Helen Harper, a Scottish author known for her knack for crafting vibrant urban fantasies, launched the Bo Blackman series in 2014 with Dire Straits. Inspired by London’s eclectic energy and her love for strong female leads, Harper created Bo as a rookie PI who’s thrust into a supernatural underworld. The series, published independently, quickly gained a cult following for its fresh take on vampires and daemons, blending British humor with dark, thrilling plots.
Harper’s goal was to explore identity and belonging through Bo’s eyes, a human caught in a world of supernatural politics and danger. Her vivid portrayal of London as a character in itself—complete with shadowy alleys and vampire-owned mansions—set the stage for a series that feels both fantastical and grounded.
The Heart of Bo Blackman
The Bo Blackman series kicks off with Dire Straits, where Bo, working for the London-based Dire Straits PI firm, is tasked with serving a summons to a shady daemon, Devlin O’Shea. When she saves his life instead of being framed for his murder, her world spirals into chaos, forcing her to confront the powerful vampire Families. In New Order, Bo juggles a kidnapping case with a deadly game of supernatural tit-for-tat, while High Stakes sees her investigating a brutal assault, uncovering a darkness she’s unprepared for.
Vigilante Vampire, the fifth book, marks Bo’s darkest turn as she works for a mysterious Kakos daemon, battling crime on London’s streets while grappling with her fading humanity. Themes of identity and belonging run deep, as Bo wrestles with whether to embrace her vampire nature or fight for her human roots. Harper’s fast-paced style, laced with wit and moral ambiguity, makes each book a page-turner, with London’s supernatural underbelly as a vivid backdrop.
The series’ strength lies in its character-driven storytelling. Bo’s recklessness and stubbornness make her relatable, while her growth from rookie to vigilante resonates with readers. Harper weaves social commentary—on class, power, and prejudice—into the supernatural, adding depth to the action-packed plots.
Why Bo Blackman Resonates
Though not a mainstream blockbuster, the Bo Blackman series has carved a niche among urban fantasy fans for its bold heroine and immersive world-building. Readers praise Harper’s ability to humanize supernatural beings, with Bo’s struggle to belong striking a universal chord. Reviews on Goodreads highlight the series’ addictive pacing and emotional depth, with fans calling it a “wild ride” that lingers long after the final page.
Its legacy lies in its cult status, appealing to readers who crave underdog stories and nuanced takes on vampire lore. By blending British sensibilities with universal themes, Bo Blackman offers a fresh lens on urban fantasy, proving that even lesser-known series can leave a lasting mark.
- Publication Years: 2014–2015
- Number of Books: 5
- Genre: Urban Fantasy, Paranormal
Grab Dire Straits and dive into Bo Blackman’s thrilling, supernatural London—where danger, wit, and heart collide!