Step into the shadowy yet stunning world of the DI Kelly Porter series, where the serene Lake District hides a chilling criminal underbelly! Penned by Rachel Lynch, this gripping British crime fiction saga follows Detective Inspector Kelly Porter as she unravels intricate mysteries in Cumbria’s picturesque landscapes. With a knack for blending heart-pounding suspense with richly drawn characters, Lynch has crafted a series that’s as captivating as the fells themselves.
Perfect for fans of Angela Marsons or Patricia Gibney, the series hooks you with its atmospheric setting and Kelly’s relentless pursuit of justice. Whether you’re a crime fiction aficionado or new to the genre, Kelly’s world promises twists, turns, and a touch of Lake District magic.
How DI Kelly Porter Began
Rachel Lynch, a Cumbria native, drew inspiration from her childhood exploring the Lake District’s lakes and fells. After a varied career—teaching history, working as a personal trainer, and following her Army officer husband globally—Lynch channeled her love for storytelling into crime fiction. Her debut, Dark Game (2018), introduced Kelly Porter, a former Met detective returning to her Cumbrian roots after a scandal. Lynch’s deep knowledge of the region and her fascination with human compassion and crime’s darker side shaped a series that feels both authentic and immersive.
The Heart of DI Kelly Porter
The series, spanning 12 books as of 2024, kicks off with Dark Game, where Kelly tackles a cold case involving the abduction of ten-year-old Lottie Davies while uncovering a web of local crime. Deep Fear (2018) sees her chasing a serial killer leaving symbolic clues, while Blood Rites (2019) explores pagan rituals and a mysterious girl at an ancient stone circle. Little Doubt (2020) delivers a double murder mystery, shaking the Lake District community.
Lynch’s storytelling shines through vivid settings, from Thirlmere’s reservoirs to Castlerigg’s stone circles, making the Lake District a character in its own right. Themes of justice, family secrets, and the clash between touristy charm and hidden darkness run deep. Kelly, a dedicated yet flawed detective, balances professional grit with personal struggles—like her fraught relationship with her sister Nikki—making her relatable and compelling.
The series’ police procedural style is meticulous yet accessible, with twists that keep readers guessing. Lynch’s background in anatomy adds gritty realism to crime scenes, while her lyrical descriptions of Cumbria’s landscapes create a haunting backdrop. Fans praise the balance of Kelly’s work and personal life, ensuring each book feels fresh and engaging.
Why DI Kelly Porter Resonates
With over a million copies sold, the DI Kelly Porter series has carved a niche in British crime fiction. Its blend of regional authenticity and universal themes—trust, betrayal, and redemption—resonates with readers worldwide. Kelly’s compassion and tenacity make her a standout female lead, while the Lake District setting offers a refreshing change from urban crime dramas. The series’ growing fanbase eagerly awaits each release, with First Act slated for 2026, proving its lasting appeal.
- Publication Years: 2018–2024 (12 books, with a 13th announced).
- Number of Books: 12, including Dark Game to Shared Remains.
- Setting: Lake District, Cumbria, England.
- Publisher: Canelo Crime.
Grab Dark Game and dive into DI Kelly Porter’s thrilling world of crime and Cumbrian charm! Whether you’re hiking the fells or cozying up at home, Kelly’s mysteries will keep you hooked.