Step into the shadowy streets of Edinburgh with the DI Callanach series, where gripping mysteries and a charismatic French detective await! Helen Fields’ thrilling crime novels, starting with Perfect Remains in 2017, follow Detective Inspector Luc Callanach as he unravels twisted cases in Scotland’s capital. With dark themes, complex characters, and a knack for keeping readers on edge, this series is a must-read for crime fiction fans.
Blending police procedurals with psychological depth, the series captures the gritty charm of Edinburgh while exploring the mind of a tortured yet brilliant detective. Ready to dive into a world of suspense? Let’s explore what makes DI Callanach so captivating!
How DI Callanach Began
Helen Fields, a former criminal and family law barrister, crafted the DI Callanach series from her love of storytelling and legal expertise. Inspired by Edinburgh’s haunting beauty and her fascination with complex characters, she introduced Luc Callanach—a half-French, half-Scottish detective with a troubled past. Fields wanted a protagonist who embodied French flair and emotional depth, making Luc a “broken and tortured soul” navigating a new life in Scotland after leaving Interpol. Launched with Perfect Remains, the series quickly gained traction for its chilling plots and vivid setting.
The Heart of DI Callanach
The series kicks off with Perfect Remains, where Luc tackles a chilling case: a respected lawyer’s body is burned on a Highland mountain, while the real victim is trapped in Edinburgh. In Perfect Prey, a rock festival murder and a teacher’s strangulation stump Luc and his colleague DI Ava Turner, with cryptic graffiti hinting at the killer’s next move. Perfect Death introduces a poison-wielding serial killer, pushing the duo to their limits. Finally, Perfect Kill takes Luc to France, uncovering a horrifying human trafficking ring.
Fields’ novels weave themes of justice, morality, and psychological torment, set against Edinburgh’s moody backdrop. The series’ style is visceral yet witty, balancing gruesome crimes with moments of humor and romance. Luc’s French-Scottish heritage adds cultural richness, while his partnership with Ava—marked by trust and tension—grounds the high-stakes investigations. Each book stands alone but builds a deeper arc for the characters, making every read addictive.
Why DI Callanach Resonates
The DI Callanach series has carved a niche in crime fiction with its blend of dark thrills and emotional depth. Fans praise Fields’ ability to craft compelling, flawed characters and plots that keep you guessing. Nominated for the McIlvanney Prize for Perfect Remains and Perfect Death, the series has also hit Amazon’s #1 bestseller lists and been translated into over 20 languages. Its Edinburgh setting feels like a character itself, drawing readers into a world where danger lurks in every alley.
Beyond awards, the series’ impact lies in its loyal fanbase, who connect with Luc’s struggles and Fields’ fearless exploration of human darkness. It’s a testament to the power of well-crafted crime fiction that entertains and provokes thought.
- Publication Years: 2017–2022 (7 books)
- Books in Series: 7, including Perfect Remains, Perfect Prey, and One for Sorrow
- Awards: Nominated for McIlvanney Prize (2017, 2018); Perfect Kill longlisted for Ian Fleming Steel Dagger (2020)
- Setting: Edinburgh, Scotland
Grab Perfect Remains and dive into DI Callanach’s thrilling world of mystery and suspense! Whether you’re a crime fiction newbie or a seasoned sleuth, Luc’s adventures will keep you hooked till the last page.