Step into the shadowy, suspense-filled world of Crowther and Westerman, where 18th-century England comes alive with murder, mystery, and sharp-witted sleuthing! Penned by Imogen Robertson, this historical mystery series follows the unlikely duo of Harriet Westerman, a bold naval wife, and Gabriel Crowther, a reclusive anatomist, as they unravel chilling crimes. With five novels brimming with Georgian intrigue, the series blends forensic detail and rich social history, making it a must-read for fans of Anne Perry or C.S. Harris.
From the murky banks of the Thames to the opulent courts of Germany, Crowther and Westerman’s adventures offer a vivid window into a world of espionage, slavery debates, and societal upheaval. Ready to dive into a series that’s been called 'CSI: Georgian England'? Let’s explore its origins, stories, and lasting charm!
How Crowther and Westerman Began
Imogen Robertson, a former TV director with a passion for 18th-century social history, launched the Crowther and Westerman series with Instruments of Darkness in 2009. The novel’s opening won the Telegraph’s First Thousand Words competition in 2007, sparking her shift to full-time writing. Inspired by historians like Amanda Vickery and her love for complex crime narratives, Robertson crafted a series that pairs gritty forensics with personal, less institutionalized justice, set against the vibrant backdrop of Georgian England.
Robertson’s fascination with the era’s overlooked voices—women, servants, and outsiders—shaped Harriet and Gabriel, whose complementary dynamic drives the series. Translated into over ten languages, the series has earned accolades, including shortlists for the CWA Ellis Peters Historical Dagger Award, cementing its place in historical fiction.
The Heart of Crowther and Westerman
The series spans five novels, each a tapestry of mystery and historical nuance. Instruments of Darkness (2009) introduces Harriet and Gabriel as they probe a murder at Thornleigh Hall, uncovering secrets tied to England’s elite. Anatomy of Murder (2010) sees them in 1781 London, untangling a drowning that reveals a espionage plot. Island of Bones (2011) delves into Crowther’s haunted past in Cumbria, while Circle of Shadows (2012) takes the duo to Germany’s Duchy of Maulberg to save Harriet’s brother-in-law from a murder charge. Theft of Life (2014) confronts the grim realities of the slave trade in 1785 London.
Themes of justice, power, and morality weave through the series, with Harriet’s impulsive courage balancing Gabriel’s reflective precision. Robertson’s vivid settings—bustling London streets, eerie country estates—immerse readers in a world where violence and elegance coexist. Her focus on social issues, like the slave trade or women’s roles, adds depth, making each mystery a lens on Georgian society’s complexities.
The series’ style, often compared to Tess Gerritsen’s forensic thrillers or Charles Finch’s historical mysteries, blends meticulous research with serpentine plots. Readers praise the duo’s chemistry and Robertson’s ability to craft satisfying, layered conclusions that resonate emotionally.
Why Crowther and Westerman Resonates
Crowther and Westerman’s appeal lies in its fresh take on historical mysteries, merging forensic intrigue with authentic 18th-century life. Fans on Goodreads and book blogs laud the series for its vivid characters and unflinching look at issues like slavery and class divides, making it both escapist and thought-provoking. Shortlisted for prestigious awards, the series has carved a niche among readers seeking smart, immersive historical fiction.
Its global reach, with translations in Japanese, Czech, and more, reflects its universal draw. Though niche compared to blockbuster series, its loyal following and critical praise ensure its legacy as a gem for mystery lovers craving something beyond typical whodunits.
- About Crowther and Westerman
- Publication Years: 2009–2014
- Number of Books: 5
- Awards: Shortlisted for CWA Ellis Peters Historical Dagger (2011) and CWA Dagger in the Library (2012)
- Setting: Late 18th-century England and Germany
Grab Instruments of Darkness and dive into Crowther and Westerman’s thrilling world of Georgian mysteries! Whether you’re a history buff or a mystery enthusiast, this series promises a captivating ride.