Step into the sun-soaked, suspense-filled world of the Clearwater Journals series, where retired cop Joe Holiday trades snowy Toronto for the sandy shores of Clearwater Beach, Florida, only to find himself knee-deep in thrilling mysteries! Crafted by Canadian author Al Rennie, this gripping series blends fast-paced detective work with heartfelt character moments, offering readers a delightful mix of action, humor, and human connection that keeps them hooked.
With its vivid Florida setting and a cast of quirky characters, Clearwater Journals isn’t just another mystery series—it’s a love letter to second chances, community, and the thrill of chasing justice. Whether you’re a fan of gritty whodunits or heartwarming relationships, this series has something to spark your curiosity.
How Clearwater Journals Began
Al Rennie, a Toronto native with a background as an English teacher and youth worker, found inspiration for the Clearwater Journals series in his love for Clearwater Beach, a place he visits to escape Canada’s chilly winters. Launched in 2011, the series was born from Rennie’s desire to craft a detective saga that felt both thrilling and grounded. His protagonist, Joe ‘Doc’ Holiday, emerged as a relatable ex-cop seeking a quieter life, only to be pulled into complex cases by his knack for justice and a certain IHOP waitress named Mia.
Rennie’s storytelling draws from his own experiences and a keen sense of place, making Clearwater Beach a vibrant character in its own right. His hands-on approach—writing ‘like a madman’ before meticulous editing—ensures each book pulses with energy and authenticity, capturing the essence of Florida’s Gulf Coast.
The Heart of Clearwater Journals
The series kicks off with Clearwater Journals (2011), where Joe Holiday meets Mia, an IHOP waitress determined to solve her sister’s years-old murder. Their investigation spirals into a deadly manhunt, blending suspense with a touching May-December romance. Clearwater Diaries (2011) deepens their bond as Joe tackles a missing person case tied to a shooting, showcasing his dogged determination. Clearwater Ambush (2014) sees Joe and partner Coop hunting for a vanished boy while juggling personal dramas, and Clearwater Abduction (2014) ramps up the stakes with a race to save a kidnapped girl.
Rennie’s novels weave themes of redemption, resilience, and the weight of the past, all wrapped in a light, witty tone. The Clearwater setting, with its beaches, diners, and houseboat offices, grounds the high-stakes mysteries in a cozy, lived-in world. Fans praise the series for its strong character development—especially Joe and Mia’s evolving relationship—and its balance of humor, heart, and gritty crime-solving, often likening it to a beachside Seinfeld with a detective twist.
The series’ first-person narrative and occasional typos spark mixed reactions, but its compelling plots and relatable characters shine through, earning it a loyal following. Rennie’s respectful portrayal of diverse characters, from homeless men to older women, adds depth, making the series a standout in the mystery genre.
Why Clearwater Journals Resonates
Clearwater Journals has carved a niche among mystery fans for its unique blend of local flavor and universal themes. Its portrayal of Clearwater Beach as a sunlit yet shadowy paradise draws readers who crave immersive settings, while Joe’s journey from jaded cop to community hero speaks to anyone seeking a fresh start. The series’ emphasis on relationships—romantic, friendly, and hostile—creates an emotional hook that keeps readers invested across dozens of books.
With 51 novels and counting, Rennie’s prolific output and dedicated fanbase prove the series’ lasting appeal. Readers on Goodreads and Amazon celebrate its addictive pacing and vivid characters, with some envisioning it as a TV series. For those who love mysteries with heart, Clearwater Journals is a hidden gem that delivers time and again.
- First Book Published: November 2011
- Total Books: 51 (as of 2025)
- Setting: Clearwater Beach, Florida
- Genre: Mystery/Thriller
Ready to trade snow for sand and dive into a world of mystery? Grab Clearwater Journals and join Joe and Mia on their thrilling ride through Clearwater Beach’s secrets!