Step into the shadowy streets of Sussex, where DCI Andrew Fenwick battles crime and personal demons in Elizabeth Corley’s gripping crime series! This thrilling collection of novels blends psychological depth, intricate mysteries, and the charm of southern England, offering readers a detective who’s as human as he is determined. Perfect for fans of Tana French or Peter Robinson, Fenwick’s world is one you won’t want to leave.
Centered on Detective Chief Inspector Andrew Fenwick, a single father navigating high-stakes investigations, the series captures the gritty reality of police work while weaving in emotional layers. From brutal murders to corporate conspiracies, Corley’s storytelling keeps you guessing, with a vivid Sussex backdrop that feels like a character itself.
How DCI Andrew Fenwick Began
Elizabeth Corley, a West Sussex native and financial executive, launched the DCI Andrew Fenwick series in 1998 with Requiem Mass. A former vice-chair of the Crime Writers’ Association, Corley drew on her love for psychological analysis to craft novels that delve into the minds of both criminals and detectives. Her dual career—balancing a CEO role with writing—infuses the series with a unique authenticity, especially in its portrayal of corporate intrigue and human complexity.
Inspired by her Sussex roots, Corley set out to create a detective who wasn’t a superhero but a flawed, relatable figure. Fenwick, reeling from a painful divorce, juggles single parenthood with his relentless pursuit of justice, making him a standout in the crowded crime genre.
The Heart of DCI Andrew Fenwick
The series kicks off with Requiem Mass, where Fenwick investigates the disappearance of young mother Debbie Fearnside, uncovering a chilling revenge plot tied to a decades-old death. In Fatal Legacy, the second book, a suspicious corporate death leads Fenwick into a web of financial corruption at Wainwright Enterprises, testing his integrity. Grave Doubts, the third installment, ramps up the suspense as Fenwick races to stop a serial killer targeting his colleague, Sergeant Louise Nightingale. Dead of Winter, the fifth book, sees Fenwick tackling the vanishing of a troubled teen amid a snowy Sussex storm.
Corley’s novels shine through their psychological depth, exploring themes of loss, vengeance, and moral ambiguity. The Sussex setting—its quaint villages and stormy coasts—adds a haunting atmosphere, while Fenwick’s personal struggles, like raising his children with his mother’s help, ground the high-stakes plots. Fans praise Corley’s vivid descriptions and complex characters, with reviews noting the series’ ability to thrill and unsettle in equal measure.
The teamwork in Fenwick’s investigations, alongside sidekicks like Nightingale and WDC Cooper, sets the series apart from lone-wolf detective tales. Corley’s meticulous plotting and slow-burn suspense make each book a page-turner, perfect for readers who love a cerebral mystery with emotional heft.
Why DCI Andrew Fenwick Resonates
Though not as widely known as some crime series, DCI Andrew Fenwick has carved a niche among fans of character-driven police procedurals. Corley’s ability to blend gritty crime with personal drama appeals to readers who crave more than just a whodunit. The series’ focus on psychological suspense and its authentic Sussex setting have earned comparisons to heavyweights like Elizabeth George, with Booklist calling Fenwick’s stories “tremendously promising.”
Its cult following appreciates the realism of Fenwick’s struggles—both on the job and at home—making the series a hidden gem in crime fiction. For those who discover it, the Fenwick novels offer a refreshing take on the genre, proving that even lesser-known series can leave a lasting mark.
- First Book Published: 1998 (Requiem Mass)
- Number of Books: 5
- Setting: Sussex, England
- Author’s Background: Financial executive and Crime Writers’ Association member
Ready to unravel a mystery with a detective who’s as real as it gets? Grab Requiem Mass and dive into DCI Andrew Fenwick’s thrilling world of crime and heart!