Step into the gritty, pulse-pounding world of the DI Matt Barnes series, where London’s dark underbelly comes alive with every turn of the page! Penned by Michael Kerr, this collection of crime thrillers follows Detective Inspector Matt Barnes, a tenacious cop battling psychopathic killers and cunning criminals in a high-stakes game of cat and mouse. With its blend of relentless action, psychological depth, and authentic police procedure, this series is a hidden gem for fans of contemporary crime fiction.
From the shadowy streets of the East End to the corridors of Scotland Yard, Kerr crafts a vivid, immersive experience that keeps readers hooked. Whether you’re a seasoned crime thriller enthusiast or new to the genre, DI Matt Barnes delivers a gripping ride that’s hard to put down.
How DI Matt Barnes Began
Michael Kerr, a former prison service worker with over two decades of experience, drew on his firsthand insights into the criminal mind to create the DI Matt Barnes series. Inspired by authors like Lee Child and Michael Connelly, Kerr set out to craft fast-paced, action-packed thrillers that resonate with readers who crave believable protagonists and emotionally charged stories. The series debuted with A Reason to Kill in 2013, introducing Matt Barnes as a dedicated detective facing off against a sadistic hitman.
Kerr’s time in the prison service shaped his authentic portrayal of criminals, particularly serial killers, lending the series a chilling realism. Set in London, the series reflects Kerr’s knack for weaving real-world grit with fictional drama, making DI Matt Barnes a standout in the crime thriller landscape.
The Heart of DI Matt Barnes
The DI Matt Barnes series spans eight books, each plunging readers into a new case that tests Matt’s resolve and cunning. In A Reason to Kill, Matt survives a brutal gangland hit while protecting a witness against mob boss Frank Santini, setting the stage for a relentless pursuit of justice. Lethal Intent, the second installment, sees Matt recovering from injuries while teaming up with criminal psychologist Dr. Beth Holder to track a vengeful kidnapper. Chosen to Kill, book four, tackles dual cases involving a psychopath targeting housekeepers and a serial rapist, showcasing Matt’s ability to juggle complex investigations. Addicted to Kill, the eighth book, pits Matt, now a DCI, against the East End Strangler, a killer taunting the police with cryptic clues.
The series thrives on its themes of justice, vengeance, and the psychological toll of confronting evil. Kerr’s London is a character in itself—grimy, sprawling, and teeming with danger. His writing style is punchy and vivid, with graphic violence that’s not for the faint-hearted but perfectly suits the genre’s intensity. Matt’s personal growth, particularly his relationship with Beth, adds emotional depth, balancing the series’ brutal action with moments of humanity.
Kerr’s experience shines through in the series’ authentic police procedures and nuanced portrayal of criminals, from cold-blooded psychopaths to calculating gangsters. Fans praise the relentless pace and complex characters, though some note the violence can be intense, making it ideal for readers who enjoy hard-hitting thrillers.
Why DI Matt Barnes Resonates
The DI Matt Barnes series has carved a niche among crime thriller fans for its raw intensity and compelling protagonist. Matt’s dogged determination and moral complexity make him a relatable hero, while Kerr’s ability to craft unpredictable plots keeps readers on edge. The series’ focus on serial killers and organized crime taps into universal fears, offering a cathartic escape through Matt’s triumphs.
Though not as widely known as mainstream thrillers, the series has a dedicated following, with readers on platforms like Goodreads and Amazon lauding its page-turning quality and vivid storytelling. Its lasting appeal lies in its ability to blend gritty realism with escapist thrills, making it a must-read for those seeking an adrenaline-fueled journey through London’s criminal underworld.
- First Book: A Reason to Kill (2013)
- Number of Books: 8
- Setting: London, UK
- Author’s Inspiration: Over 20 years in the prison service
Ready to dive into London’s darkest corners? Grab A Reason to Kill and join DI Matt Barnes on a thrilling chase through the world of crime fiction!