Step into the thrilling world of the D. I. Nick Dixon Crime series, where small-town secrets unravel with heart-pounding suspense! Authored by Damien Boyd, this gripping crime thriller saga follows Detective Inspector Nick Dixon, a sharp-witted former solicitor turned sleuth, as he tackles chilling cases in the picturesque yet perilous Somerset, England. With its blend of meticulous police procedurals, unexpected twists, and authentic local flavor, this series has hooked fans craving a fresh take on British crime fiction.
From the rugged cliffs of Cheddar Gorge to the quiet streets of Burnham-on-Sea, each book delivers a rollercoaster of intrigue, making it impossible to put down. Whether you’re a seasoned crime reader or new to the genre, Nick Dixon’s relentless pursuit of justice will keep you guessing until the final page.
How D. I. Nick Dixon Crime Began
Damien Boyd, a former solicitor with a knack for criminal law, crafted the D. I. Nick Dixon Crime series drawing on his years in the Crown Prosecution Service. Launched in 2013 with As the Crow Flies, the series was born from Boyd’s desire to blend his legal expertise with fast-paced storytelling. Inspired by the atmospheric Somerset landscape where he grew up, Boyd created Nick Dixon—a diabetic, no-nonsense detective with a passion for rock climbing and a knack for cracking complex cases.
Boyd’s meticulous research and insider knowledge of the legal system set the series apart, earning praise for its authenticity. Fans quickly embraced the chronological storytelling, where each book builds on Dixon’s personal and professional growth, making it a must-read in order.
The Heart of D. I. Nick Dixon Crime
The series kicks off with As the Crow Flies, where Dixon investigates the suspicious death of his former climbing partner, Jake Fayter, in Cheddar Gorge. What seems like an accident spirals into a web of foul play, showcasing Boyd’s talent for layered plots. In Head in the Sand, a severed head found in a Burnham-on-Sea golf course bunker links to unsolved murders from decades past, pushing Dixon to race against time. Swansong sees Dixon go undercover as a teacher to solve a brutal schoolgirl’s murder, confronting his own demons. Death Sentence dives into a military cover-up after an elderly man’s body is found in a WWII pillbox, blending history with high-stakes drama.
Themes of justice, loyalty, and resilience shine through, with Somerset’s moody landscapes—from flood-prone levels to historic battlefields—acting as a vivid backdrop. Boyd’s crisp prose, paired with Dixon’s grounded personality (no clichés like alcoholism here!), creates a refreshing take on the detective archetype. The series balances standalone thrills with evolving character arcs, particularly Dixon’s relationship with DS Jane Winter and his dog, Monty.
Fans love the procedural authenticity, with Boyd’s legal background ensuring every investigation feels real. The series’ fast pace and jaw-dropping twists keep readers hooked, while the small-town setting adds a cozy yet eerie charm that’s distinctly British.
Why D. I. Nick Dixon Crime Resonates
The D. I. Nick Dixon Crime series has carved a niche in the crime thriller genre, captivating readers with its blend of heart, grit, and clever plotting. Its growing fanbase, evident in glowing Amazon and Goodreads reviews, praises Boyd’s ability to craft stories that feel both intimate and epic. The series’ focus on character development and regional authenticity has sparked calls for a TV adaptation, with fans eager to see Dixon’s Somerset brought to life.
By weaving real-world issues like corruption and historical cover-ups into gripping narratives, Boyd ensures the series resonates beyond mere entertainment. Its lasting appeal lies in Dixon’s relatable humanity—a detective who bends rules for justice but stays true to his moral core.
- First Book: As the Crow Flies (2013)
- Total Books: 15 (as of 2025, with Blue Blood upcoming)
- Setting: Somerset, England
- Publisher: Thomas & Mercer
Grab As the Crow Flies and dive into the D. I. Nick Dixon Crime series’ pulse-pounding world of mystery and mayhem! Your next favorite detective is waiting.