Step into the shadowy, twist-filled world of DCI Brendan Moran, where crime lurks in the quiet corners of 1970s Britain, and a grizzled Irish detective battles both criminals and his own demons. Scott Hunter’s DCI Brendan Moran series blends classic British crime fiction with deep character exploration, delivering fast-paced mysteries that keep readers guessing until the final page.
With its brooding protagonist, intricate plots, and a knack for surprising twists, this self-published series has carved a loyal niche among crime fiction fans. Ready to unravel the mysteries alongside Moran? Let’s dive into the heart of this captivating series!
How DCI Brendan Moran Began
Born in Romford, Essex, Scott Hunter, a former IT professional and passionate drummer, kicked off his writing career with a win in the Sunday Express Short Story Competition. His love for storytelling led to the creation of DCI Brendan Moran, a world-weary Irish detective introduced in 2011’s Black December. Inspired by classic British crime authors like Ian Rankin and Val McDermid, Hunter crafted Moran as a flawed yet relatable hero, navigating the gritty realities of 1970s Thames Valley. The series’ self-published roots didn’t hinder its growth, as Hunter’s evocative prose and knack for suspense quickly won over readers.
The Heart of DCI Brendan Moran
The series kicks off with Black December (2011), where Moran, recovering from a near-fatal car crash, investigates a murder at Charnford Abbey. The monks’ eerie silence and a missing relic pull him into a web of secrets. In Creatures of Dust (2013), Moran probes a missing undercover detective and a mutilated body, suspecting a serial killer, only to face obstruction from a senior officer. Gone Too Soon (2019) sees him unravel the chilling case of a singer buried alive, while When Stars Grow Dark (2021) blends a serial killer hunt with a daring rescue mission in Rotterdam.
Hunter’s novels weave themes of self-doubt, resilience, and moral complexity. Moran’s health struggles, past traumas, and rocky personal life—marked by fleeting romances and tragic losses—add depth to his character. Set against the evocative backdrop of 1970s Britain, from abbeys to urban streets, the series balances gritty realism with atmospheric suspense. Its hallmark is unpredictable plotting, with twists that keep readers hooked, earning praise for being “top drawer crime fiction.”
Why DCI Brendan Moran Resonates
Despite its self-published status, the DCI Brendan Moran series has built a dedicated following, thanks to Hunter’s ability to craft compelling, character-driven stories. Fans love Moran’s flawed humanity and the series’ nod to classic British crime tropes, while its darker, twist-heavy narratives appeal to modern thriller enthusiasts. Hunter’s shortlisting for the Crime Writers’ Association’s Margery Allingham Prize and his 2022 win for the short story Locked In underscore his growing influence in the genre.
The series’ immersive settings and emotional depth make it a standout, inviting readers to connect with Moran’s struggles and triumphs. Its loyal fanbase eagerly awaits each new release, proving that even a lesser-known series can leave a lasting mark in crime fiction.
- First Book: Black December (2011)
- Latest Book: In the Key of Death (2024)
- Total Books: 10 novels, plus short story collections
- Awards: Scott Hunter won the 2022 CWA Margery Allingham Short Story Prize
Grab Black December and dive into DCI Brendan Moran’s gripping world of crime, secrets, and suspense. Trust us, you won’t put it down!