Step into the shadowy, puzzle-packed world of Dave Gurney, where a retired NYPD detective’s brilliant mind unravels crimes that keep you guessing until the final page! John Verdon’s Dave Gurney series is a masterclass in psychological thrillers, blending intricate mysteries with the haunting beauty of upstate New York. If you love a hero who’s as flawed as he is clever, Gurney’s your guy.
Centered on Dave Gurney, a celebrated detective who can’t resist a good case, this series dives deep into the tension between logic and human connection. With his wife, Madeleine, yearning for a quiet rural life, Gurney’s obsession with crime-solving creates a gripping backdrop to each story. Ready to explore a world where every clue counts? Let’s dive in!
How Dave Gurney Began
John Verdon, a former advertising executive turned mystery maestro, crafted the Dave Gurney series after retiring to the Catskill Mountains with his wife, Naomi. Inspired by classic detective tales from Arthur Conan Doyle to Ross Macdonald, Verdon wanted to create a modern sleuth with a sharp mind and personal struggles. His debut, Think of a Number (2010), introduced Gurney and became an international bestseller, launching a series now spanning eight books and translated into over 20 languages. Verdon’s knack for complex plots and vivid characters stems from his fascination with the mechanics of crime and its discovery, making Gurney a standout in crime fiction.
The Heart of Dave Gurney
The series kicks off with Think of a Number, where Gurney, fresh into retirement, is pulled back to solve a chilling case involving cryptic letters that seem to read minds. In Shut Your Eyes Tight, a bride’s gruesome murder on her wedding day tests Gurney’s analytical prowess, while Peter Pan Must Die sees him unravel a bizarre assassination that defies logic. The latest, The Viper (2023), thrusts Gurney into a web of corruption and a killer who strikes with venomous precision.
Set against the stark, rural beauty of upstate New York, the series weaves themes of obsession, morality, and the cost of truth. Gurney’s razor-sharp logic often clashes with his emotional distance, especially in his strained marriage with Madeleine, who craves connection he struggles to give. Verdon’s style—taut, cerebral, and layered with twists—keeps readers hooked, earning comparisons to Sherlock Holmes for its puzzle-like cases. The small-town settings amplify the eerie atmosphere, making each book a blend of psychological depth and high-stakes suspense.
Why Dave Gurney Resonates
The Dave Gurney series has carved a niche in the thriller genre, praised by outlets like The New York Times for its intelligent plots and well-drawn characters. Fans love Gurney’s relentless drive and the way Verdon crafts cases that challenge both the detective and the reader. With nominations for awards like the Nero and Shamus, the series has built a loyal following, appealing to those who crave sophisticated mysteries with emotional weight. Its exploration of racial tensions, corruption, and personal sacrifice feels timely, ensuring Gurney’s adventures remain relevant.
- About Dave Gurney:
- First book published: 2010 (Think of a Number)
- Number of books: 8 (as of 2023)
- Awards: Nominated for Nero and Shamus Awards
- Setting: Upstate New York
Grab Think of a Number and dive into Dave Gurney’s thrilling world of crime and clues! Whether you’re a mystery buff or just love a good story, this series will keep you up all night turning pages.