Step into the sun-drenched streets of Los Angeles, where the Burnside Mystery series by David Chill delivers a thrilling blend of hardboiled detective grit and wry humor! Centered on Burnside, a former USC football star turned private eye, this series captivates with complex plots, sharp dialogue, and a vivid LA backdrop that feels like a character itself. Perfect for fans of Raymond Chandler and Robert B. Parker, Burnside’s investigations unravel secrets, betrayal, and the human cost of ambition.
With its roots in the classic private eye genre, the Burnside Mystery series stands out by weaving personal tragedy—especially sibling dynamics—and LA’s vibrant culture into its narratives. Whether you’re a mystery buff or new to the genre, Burnside’s world is an irresistible ride through deception and redemption.
How Burnside Mystery Began
David Chill, a USA TODAY bestselling author, launched the Burnside Mystery series in 2013 with Post Pattern, which won an award from the Private Eye Writers of America for best new mystery novel. Inspired by giants like Chandler, Hammett, and Parker, Chill crafted Burnside as a modern PI with a past—once a USC Trojan and LAPD officer, now navigating LA’s underbelly as a private investigator. Chill’s love for Los Angeles, where he earned his master’s at USC, infuses the series with authentic local flavor, from glitzy enclaves to gritty downtown corners.
The Heart of Burnside Mystery
The series spans thirteen novels, each a standalone yet interconnected tale of crime and consequence. Post Pattern kicks things off as Burnside investigates a shooting targeting a football star, only to uncover a web of drugs and betrayal that hits close to home. Bubble Screen sees him tackling warehouse thefts that escalate into murder, blending college football and corporate greed. Corner Blitz plunges Burnside into a high-stakes case when the governor’s daughter vanishes, exploring political intrigue and personal demons. Double Pass balances dual mysteries with Burnside’s growth as a father, adding depth to his wise-cracking persona.
Themes of loyalty, betrayal, and the cost of ambition run deep, often framed by sibling relationships that mirror Burnside’s own past betrayals. Chill’s style—crisp, action-packed, and laced with humor—channels the hardboiled tradition while feeling fresh. The Los Angeles setting, from sunlit freeways to shadowy alleys, grounds the stories, making the city a dynamic force in Burnside’s investigations.
Why Burnside Mystery Resonates
The Burnside Mystery series has carved a niche in the private eye genre, earning critical acclaim and spots on bestseller lists. Fans praise its unpredictable plots and Burnside’s relatable flaws—a tough guy with a sharp tongue and a heart bruised by loss. By blending classic noir with modern sensibilities, Chill appeals to both traditional mystery readers and newcomers. The series’ exploration of LA’s beauty and corruption, paired with Burnside’s resilience, keeps readers hooked, proving the enduring allure of a good PI tale.
- About Burnside Mystery
- Publication Years: 2013–present
- Number of Books: 13
- Awards: Post Pattern won the Private Eye Writers of America award for best new novel
- Setting: Los Angeles, California
Ready to chase clues with Burnside? Grab Post Pattern and dive into the Burnside Mystery series’ thrilling world of crime, humor, and LA noir!