Step into the fog-draped streets of Victorian London, where the Colin Pendragon Mystery series by Gregory Harris spins tales of clever sleuthing and subtle romance! This historical mystery saga follows the brilliant detective Colin Pendragon and his loyal partner Ethan Pruitt as they unravel crimes that tangle with the city’s darkest secrets. With a nod to Sherlock Holmes, Harris crafts a fresh twist on the classic detective genre, blending intricate plots with a groundbreaking romantic dynamic that sets this series apart.
Perfect for fans of historical whodunits with a touch of heart, the series invites readers to solve mysteries alongside a duo whose chemistry is as captivating as the cases they tackle. Ready to chase clues through London’s gaslit alleys? Let’s explore the world of Colin Pendragon!
How Colin Pendragon Mystery Began
Gregory Harris, a former film and television professional from Chicago, turned his storytelling talents to fiction after two decades in the entertainment industry. Inspired by the rich atmosphere of Victorian London and the enduring appeal of Sherlock Holmes, Harris created the Colin Pendragon Mystery series to offer a modern take on the detective archetype. His debut novel, The Arnifour Affair, published in 2014, introduced readers to Colin, a charismatic sleuth, and Ethan, his thoughtful partner, setting the stage for a series that balances historical authenticity with bold narrative choices.
Harris’s shift to writing came after working on projects like Moonlighting and Chicago Hope, where he honed his knack for compelling narratives. His love for London’s foggy byways and complex characters fueled the series, which embraces the Sherlockian tradition while carving its own path with a focus on personal relationships and societal undercurrents.
The Heart of Colin Pendragon Mystery
The series kicks off with The Arnifour Affair (2014), where Colin and Ethan investigate the brutal murder of Lady Arnifour’s husband and the attack on her niece, uncovering a web of family secrets and scandal. The Bellingham Bloodbath (2014) sees the duo summoned to Buckingham Palace to solve a double murder within Her Majesty’s Guard, racing against a tight deadline. The Connicle Curse (2015) delves into the disappearance of a wealthy financier, with voodoo suspicions and hidden elite lives complicating the case. The Endicott Evil (2017) challenges the pair to determine if an elderly woman’s fatal fall was suicide or murder, weaving in spiritualism and past foes.
Set against the gritty backdrop of late 19th-century London, the series shines with its vivid period detail—think opium dens, cobblestone streets, and aristocratic estates. Themes of loyalty, identity, and justice pulse through the stories, with Colin’s arrogance and Ethan’s compassion creating a dynamic interplay. The series’ boldest element is the romantic bond between Colin and Ethan, portrayed with subtlety to reflect Victorian constraints, offering a fresh lens on the detective-partner trope. Harris’s plots are fast-paced, filled with twists, humor, and a touch of darkness, making each book a page-turner.
Why Colin Pendragon Mystery Resonates
The Colin Pendragon Mystery series has carved a niche among historical mystery fans for its blend of classic sleuthing and modern sensibilities. By placing a queer relationship at its heart, Harris challenges genre conventions, offering representation that feels both authentic and revolutionary for its Victorian setting. Fans praise the series for its rich world-building and the emotional depth of Colin and Ethan’s partnership, which adds stakes to their investigations.
Though not as widely known as other detective sagas, the series has earned a dedicated following for its intelligent plots and nuanced characters. Its influence lies in proving that historical mysteries can evolve, embracing diverse narratives without sacrificing the genre’s core thrills. For readers seeking a blend of brainy puzzles and heartfelt connection, Colin Pendragon delivers.
- Publication Years: 2014–2018
- Number of Books: 6
- Genre: Cozy Historical Mystery
Grab The Arnifour Affair and dive into the Colin Pendragon Mystery series’ world of Victorian intrigue and clever detective work! Whether you’re a mystery buff or a romance enthusiast, Colin and Ethan’s adventures will keep you guessing and grinning.