Step into the thrilling world of Clay Edison, where every death tells a story and the truth is never what it seems! This gripping crime series by Jonathan and Jesse Kellerman follows Clay Edison, a deputy coroner with a sharp mind and a relentless drive to uncover the hidden truths behind the bodies he examines. With a unique blend of forensic expertise and psychological insight, Clay navigates the murky waters of murder, deception, and family ties in California’s vibrant Bay Area.
Unlike typical detectives, Clay’s role as a coroner gives him a fresh perspective, making this series a standout in the crime thriller genre. Whether you’re a fan of intricate mysteries or compelling characters, Clay Edison’s world is one you’ll want to explore.
How Clay Edison Began
The Clay Edison series was born from the dynamic father-son duo of Jonathan and Jesse Kellerman, both acclaimed authors in their own right. Jonathan, known for his bestselling Alex Delaware series, teamed up with Jesse, a talented novelist and playwright, to create a fresh take on the crime genre. Launched in 2017 with Crime Scene, the series draws on Jonathan’s background in psychology and Jesse’s knack for intricate plotting, crafting a protagonist who’s as compassionate as he is tenacious. Their collaboration blends seasoned expertise with modern flair, setting the stage for Clay’s unique journey as a coroner-turned-investigator.
The Heart of Clay Edison
The series kicks off with Crime Scene, where Clay investigates the death of a reclusive psychology professor, only to uncover a web of scandal and violence tied to a decades-old murder. In A Measure of Darkness, Clay tackles a chaotic shooting scene, discovering a Jane Doe whose brutal death leads him into a hidden world of perversity. Half Moon Bay sees Clay unraveling a cold case involving infant remains, while The Lost Coast (2024) follows him as a private eye diving into a fraudulent scheme in a remote California town.
Themes of truth, loyalty, and the blurred line between justice and vengeance run deep in the series. Set against the eclectic backdrop of Berkeley and Oakland, the stories capture the region’s cultural diversity and social tensions, from gentrification to academic intrigue. Clay’s introspective nature and complex relationships—especially with his troubled brother, Luke—add emotional depth, making each book a page-turner with heart.
The Kellermans’ writing style is crisp and engaging, blending procedural detail with psychological nuance. Fans of Michael Connelly or Patricia Cornwell will appreciate the meticulous investigations and Clay’s dogged pursuit of answers, often at great personal risk.
Why Clay Edison Resonates
The Clay Edison series has carved a niche in the crime thriller world, offering a fresh angle through its coroner protagonist. Readers praise Clay’s authenticity—a former basketball star with a psychology degree, he’s relatable yet extraordinary. The series’ exploration of family dynamics and moral dilemmas resonates with fans, while its Bay Area setting adds a vivid, almost character-like presence. With each book, the Kellermans deliver suspense and humanity, earning accolades like Stephen King’s praise for “brilliant, page-turning fiction.”
The series’ growing fanbase appreciates its balance of gritty realism and emotional stakes, making it a must-read for those who love their mysteries with a side of soul-searching.
- First Book: Crime Scene (2017)
- Latest Book: The Lost Coast (2024)
- Number of Books: 5, with Coyote Hills slated for 2025
- Authors: Jonathan and Jesse Kellerman
Grab Crime Scene and dive into Clay Edison’s thrilling world of mystery and truth-seeking! Whether you’re unraveling a murder or rooting for Clay’s next move, this series promises a wild, unforgettable ride.