Step into the gritty, pulse-pounding world of DI Jon Spicer, where Manchester’s dark alleys and industrial heart pulse with crime and secrets! Chris Simms’ acclaimed crime thriller series follows Detective Inspector Jon Spicer, a tough yet human detective whose Irish roots and relentless pursuit of justice make him a standout in British crime fiction. With each case, Spicer dives into Manchester’s underbelly, tackling sadistic killers and unraveling mysteries that keep readers on edge.
From serial murderers to occult conspiracies, the DI Jon Spicer series blends psychological depth with fast-paced procedural action. Whether you’re a crime fiction fanatic or new to the genre, Spicer’s world offers a thrilling ride through a city as complex as its hero.
How DI Jon Spicer Began
Chris Simms, a Manchester-based author with a knack for dark storytelling, introduced DI Jon Spicer in 2005 with Killing the Beasts. After moving to Manchester in 1994, Simms drew inspiration from the city’s industrial legacy and evolving landscape. His own experiences—working in nightclubs, airports, and as a freelance copywriter—infused his writing with gritty realism. Spicer, a Mancunian detective with Irish heritage and a boxing grandfather, emerged as a character who embodies the city’s resilience and complexity, crafted to tackle the darkest corners of human nature.
The Heart of DI Jon Spicer
The DI Jon Spicer series kicks off with Killing the Beasts (2005), set during Manchester’s 2002 Commonwealth Games. Spicer investigates a string of gruesome murders, uncovering a killer’s descent into madness. Shifting Skin (2006) follows the chilling case of the ‘Butcher of Belle Vue,’ delving into Manchester’s sex trade and cosmetic surgery underworld. Hell’s Fire (2008) tackles arson attacks on churches, exploring religion’s role in society, while Dark Angel (2021), the ninth book, sees Spicer living among the homeless to catch a serial killer.
The series is known for its psychological depth, weaving themes of morality, violence, and redemption. Manchester itself is a vivid character—its abandoned warehouses, modern skyline, and hidden tunnels provide a haunting backdrop. Simms’ style balances procedural detail with emotional stakes, making Spicer’s personal struggles—family tensions, past traumas—as gripping as his cases. Fans praise the series for its immersive sense of place and Spicer’s flawed, relatable heroism.
Why DI Jon Spicer Resonates
The DI Jon Spicer series has carved a niche in crime fiction, earning nominations for the Theakston’s Crime Novel of the Year and CWA Daggers. Critics, like The Guardian, call Simms ‘one of the best of the new generation,’ while readers love Spicer’s tenacity and Manchester’s gritty charm. The series’ focus on contemporary issues—terrorism, homelessness, societal divides—gives it timeless relevance, resonating with fans of psychological thrillers and police procedurals alike.
Spicer’s enduring appeal lies in his humanity. He’s not a flawless hero but a man wrestling with darkness, both in Manchester’s streets and within himself. This authenticity, paired with Simms’ knack for twisty plots, keeps readers hooked across nine books and counting.
- First Book: Killing the Beasts (2005)
- Latest Book: Dark Angel (2021)
- Number of Books: 9
- Awards: Nominated for Theakston’s Crime Novel of the Year and CWA Daggers
Grab Killing the Beasts and dive into DI Jon Spicer’s thrilling world of crime, secrets, and Manchester’s beating heart!