Step into the shadowy streets of London with the Brock and Kolla series, where crime and mystery intertwine with the beating pulse of the city! Written by Barry Maitland, this gripping crime fiction saga follows Detective Chief Inspector David Brock and Detective Sergeant Kathy Kolla as they unravel complex cases in the heart of the UK’s capital. With intricate plots and vivid settings, it’s a must-read for fans of whodunits and whydunits alike.
Spanning 14 books over nearly three decades, the series blends atmospheric storytelling with deep character development, making each case feel like a personal journey. Ready to dive into a world of suspense and clever detective work? Let’s explore what makes Brock and Kolla so captivating!
How Brock and Kolla Began
Barry Maitland, a Scottish-born author with a background in architecture, crafted the Brock and Kolla series after moving to London and later Australia. His architectural expertise shaped the series’ structured plots and richly detailed settings, with each novel set in a unique corner of London. Launched in 1994 with The Marx Sisters, the series introduced Brock, a seasoned Scotland Yard veteran, and Kolla, his ambitious younger partner, as one of crime fiction’s first male-female detective duos, bringing fresh dynamics to the genre.
Maitland’s inspiration came from his love for London’s diverse neighborhoods and his fascination with human motivations. His novels evolved from his academic career, where he taught urban design, into full-time writing by 2000, allowing him to weave complex mysteries that reflect the city’s gritty charm and hidden secrets.
The Heart of Brock and Kolla
The series kicks off with The Marx Sisters (1994), where Brock and Kolla investigate the suspicious death of Meredith Winterbottom in London’s Jerusalem Lane. The case spirals into a web of real-estate greed and Marxist legacies, showcasing Maitland’s knack for blending history with crime. In The Malcontenta (1995), Kolla probes a suspicious death at a naturopathic clinic, uncovering corruption and sexism in the police force, while Brock lends unofficial support.
Silvermeadow (2000) intertwines two cases—a missing girl and a bank robber’s return—set in a sprawling shopping mall, highlighting the duo’s teamwork. The Promised Land (2019) sees a promoted Kolla tackling brutal murders on Hampstead Heath, with a retired Brock drawn back into the fray, centered around a mysterious literary manuscript. Themes of corruption, obsession, and social issues run deep, with London’s laneways and buildings acting as vivid backdrops. Maitland’s whydunit style delves into character motivations, making each case a psychological puzzle.
The series’ strength lies in its evolving relationship between Brock, the grizzled mentor, and Kolla, who grows from novice to confident leader. Maitland’s architectural eye crafts atmospheric settings, from bohemian Northcote Square to glossy malls, while his research into niche topics like philately or modern art adds quirky depth to each story.
Why Brock and Kolla Resonates
Brock and Kolla has carved a niche in crime fiction for its intelligent plotting and emotional depth. Fans praise its authentic portrayal of London and the duo’s evolving bond, which grounds the high-stakes mysteries. Maitland’s awards, including a Ned Kelly Award for The Malcontenta, and nominations like the John Creasey Award, underscore its critical acclaim. The series’ focus on social issues like corruption and sexism adds timeless relevance, resonating with readers who crave substance with their suspense.
Its legacy lies in pioneering the male-female detective team, influencing later crime series, and keeping readers hooked with unpredictable twists. Even lesser-known compared to blockbuster franchises, its cult following cherishes its gritty charm and intellectual rigor.
- Publication Years: 1994–2021
- Number of Books: 14
- Awards: Ned Kelly Award for The Malcontenta (1995)
- Setting: Various London neighborhoods
Grab The Marx Sisters and step into Brock and Kolla’s thrilling world of crime, mystery, and London’s hidden corners!