Step into the gritty, gripping world of Brock and Poole, where London’s darkest crimes meet razor-sharp detective work! Penned by ex-policeman Graham Ison, this crime fiction series follows Detective Chief Inspector Harry Brock and his young sidekick, Detective Sergeant Dave Poole, as they unravel complex cases in the heart of modern London. With 17 books packed with authentic police procedures and clever twists, it’s a must-read for fans of taut, no-nonsense thrillers.
Picture this: a world-weary Brock, sharp-dressed and fluent in German, trading witty banter with the scruffy, eager Poole. Their dynamic—built on mutual respect despite a wide age gap—brings a spark to every investigation, making each novel a page-turner that blends suspense with human connection.
How Brock and Poole Began
Graham Ison, a former Scotland Yard detective with over 30 years of experience, crafted Brock and Poole from his insider knowledge of law enforcement. After serving as a protection officer for prime ministers and tackling espionage cases, Ison turned his hobby of writing into a full-time career. His goal? To create crime fiction that feels real. Launched in 2002 with Working Girl, the series draws on Ison’s expertise to deliver stories grounded in the nitty-gritty of police work, inspired by the ever-changing landscape of London’s criminal underworld.
The Heart of Brock and Poole
The series kicks off with Working Girl, where Brock and Poole investigate the brutal murder of a sex worker in London’s West End, uncovering a web of political scandal and corruption. In Light Fantastic, the duo tackles a double murder in posh Hampstead, revealing secrets tied to Soho’s seedy underbelly. Gunrunner, the 11th book, sees them probing a murder at Heathrow Airport, linked to dodgy business dealings. Finally, Deadlock, the 16th installment, pits them against a serial killer with a chilling signature—missing bras.
Ison’s strength lies in his meticulous portrayal of police procedures, from crime scene analysis to tough interrogations, making readers feel like they’re shadowing real detectives. Themes of loyalty, justice, and the moral grayness of crime weave through the series, set against a vividly drawn London, from gritty backstreets to upscale enclaves. The plots are intricate yet accessible, with twists that keep you guessing until the final page.
While the series leans on procedural authenticity, it’s the Brock-Poole dynamic that steals the show. Brock’s curmudgeonly charm pairs perfectly with Poole’s cheeky enthusiasm, creating a partnership that’s as entertaining as it is effective. Their struggles—like their failed attempts to quit smoking—add relatable depth to their larger-than-life cases.
Why Brock and Poole Resonates
Brock and Poole has carved a niche among crime fiction fans for its unflinching realism and compelling characters. Ison’s insider perspective elevates the series above typical whodunits, offering a window into the challenges and triumphs of detective work. Readers praise its tight plotting and lack of fluff, with reviews calling it “a cracking procedural” that avoids unnecessary drama. Though not a household name, the series’ loyal following appreciates its niche appeal, making it a hidden gem for those craving authentic crime stories.
Its influence extends to inspiring readers to explore London’s criminal history and the complexities of modern policing. As crime fiction evolves, Brock and Poole remains a testament to the power of grounded storytelling, proving that great mysteries don’t need flash—just sharp minds and a good chase.
- First Book: Working Girl (2002)
- Total Books: 17, ending with Naked Flames (2019)
- Setting: Modern London, UK
- Genre: Police Procedural Crime Fiction
Grab Working Girl and dive into Brock and Poole’s thrilling world of crime-solving today! Whether you’re a seasoned mystery buff or new to the genre, their London adventures will keep you hooked.