Step into the chilling yet heartwarming world of the Clare Fergusson & Russ Van Alstyne series, where a priest and a police chief unravel mysteries in the snowy Adirondacks! Penned by Julia Spencer-Fleming, this award-winning mystery series blends gripping crime plots with a slow-burn romance, set against the backdrop of small-town New York. It’s a perfect mix of whodunit suspense and emotional depth that keeps readers hooked.
From its debut in 2002, the series has captivated fans with its unique protagonists: Clare, a former Army helicopter pilot turned Episcopal priest, and Russ, a seasoned police chief with deep roots in Millers Kill. Their unlikely partnership and evolving relationship make every investigation a page-turner.
How Clare Fergusson & Russ Van Alstyne Began
Julia Spencer-Fleming, a New York Times bestselling author, crafted this series after diving into the mystery genre with a fresh perspective. Inspired by her love for realistic amateur sleuths, she envisioned Clare as a priest—an outsider in a conservative town, bringing empathy and grit from her military past. Russ, her opposite in many ways, emerged as the grounded, skeptical counterpart. Spencer-Fleming’s goal was to weave romance and social issues into taut mysteries, and Millers Kill, a fictional town in the Adirondacks, became the perfect stage for their story.
The Heart of Clare Fergusson & Russ Van Alstyne
The series kicks off with In the Bleak Midwinter (2002), where Clare and Russ investigate an abandoned newborn and a murder, sparking their complex bond. A Fountain Filled with Blood (2003) tackles hate crimes, as the duo probes violent assaults in Millers Kill. Out of the Deep I Cry (2004) digs into a Prohibition-era disappearance, blending past and present mysteries. Hid from Our Eyes (2020) spans decades, connecting murders from 1952, 1972, and the present, with Russ under pressure as a suspect from his youth resurfaces.
Spencer-Fleming’s series shines through its themes of faith, duty, and forbidden love. Clare’s spiritual journey as a priest contrasts with Russ’s atheism, creating rich character dynamics. The Adirondack setting, with its harsh winters and tight-knit community, mirrors the characters’ inner struggles. The mysteries—ranging from serial killings to historical conspiracies—are layered with social commentary on issues like homophobia, addiction, and economic decline, making each book both thrilling and thought-provoking.
The slow-burn romance between Clare and Russ is a fan favorite, evolving from forbidden attraction to a deep partnership. Spencer-Fleming’s prose, often poetic and emotionally charged, elevates the series beyond typical mysteries, earning praise for its nuanced character development and unpredictable plots.
Why Clare Fergusson & Russ Van Alstyne Resonates
The series has left a mark on the mystery genre, winning Agatha, Anthony, and Macavity awards for its debut and subsequent novels. Fans adore its blend of gritty police procedurals and heartfelt human drama, often comparing it to Louise Penny’s Inspector Gamache series. Its exploration of faith and morality, paired with the Adirondack setting, gives it a timeless appeal. Despite a six-year gap before Hid from Our Eyes, Spencer-Fleming’s loyal readers eagerly await each release, with the upcoming At Midnight Comes the Cry (2025) promising more twists.
The series’ impact lies in its ability to balance high-stakes investigations with intimate character arcs. Clare and Russ, flawed yet honorable, resonate with readers seeking stories of resilience and connection in a complex world.
- First Book: In the Bleak Midwinter (2002)
- Total Books: 10 (as of 2025)
- Awards: Agatha, Anthony, Macavity, and more
- Setting: Millers Kill, New York
Dive into In the Bleak Midwinter and join Clare and Russ in their thrilling, heartfelt adventures in Millers Kill! Whether you’re a mystery buff or a romance fan, this series delivers a cozy yet electrifying escape.