Dive into the gritty, gripping world of DI Zigic and DS Ferreira, where the shadows of prejudice meet the light of justice in Eva Dolan’s thrilling crime series! Set in the diverse, tension-filled streets of Peterborough, England, this police procedural follows two detectives leading the Hate Crimes Unit, tackling cases that expose society’s darkest corners. With their dynamic partnership and unflinching resolve, Zigic and Ferreira are redefining contemporary crime fiction.
From migrant exploitation to transgender rights, this series doesn’t shy away from tough topics, blending pulse-pounding mysteries with thought-provoking social commentary. Ready to uncover what makes this duo so compelling? Let’s explore their journey!
How DI Zigic and DS Ferreira Began
Eva Dolan, an Essex-based author with a knack for gritty storytelling, launched the DI Zigic and DS Ferreira series in 2014 with Long Way Home. A lifelong writer, Dolan’s early love for horror and sci-fi evolved into a passion for crime fiction, inspired by real-world issues like immigration and social injustice. Shortlisted for the Crime Writers’ Association Dagger as a teenager, she crafted this series to shine a light on marginalized communities, using Peterborough’s multicultural backdrop as her canvas.
Dolan’s research into gangmasters and migrant exploitation sparked the series, with DI Dushan Zigic, a steady Serbian-English family man, and DS Mel Ferreira, a fiery Portuguese-born outsider, emerging as her heroes. Published by Harvill Secker, the series quickly gained acclaim for its authentic characters and bold themes.
The Heart of DI Zigic and DS Ferreira
The series kicks off with Long Way Home (2014), where Zigic and Ferreira investigate a migrant worker’s brutal murder in a burned-out shed, unraveling a web of racism and exploitation. Tell No Tales (2015) dives into racial tensions, with the duo probing a hit-and-run and politically charged killings. After You Die (2016) tackles disability hate crime, following the murder of a mother and the starvation of her disabled daughter. Watch Her Disappear (2017) confronts violence against trans women, as the detectives hunt a killer targeting the transgender community.
Set in Peterborough’s evolving, migrant-rich landscape, the series weaves themes of hate, identity, and resilience into tightly plotted mysteries. Dolan’s style is raw and immersive, with snappy dialogue and complex characters who feel like old friends. Whether it’s the clash of Zigic’s calm rationality against Ferreira’s fiery passion or their shared commitment to justice, the series captures the human side of policing while exposing societal divides.
Each book stands alone, welcoming newcomers, but loyal readers will love watching Zigic and Ferreira’s partnership evolve. From immigration to austerity’s impact, Dolan uses crime fiction to spark debate, making every case a mirror to real-world struggles.
Why DI Zigic and DS Ferreira Resonates
The DI Zigic and DS Ferreira series has carved a niche in crime fiction, earning praise from fans and critics like Mark Billingham, who calls Dolan a must-read. Shortlisted for awards like the Theakston’s Crime Novel of the Year and the CWA Gold Dagger, the series stands out for its fearless social commentary and authentic portrayal of marginalized voices. It’s not just about solving crimes—it’s about understanding the human cost of hate.
Readers worldwide connect with the series’ universal themes, from the fight for justice to the power of empathy. Dolan’s ability to educate while entertaining ensures Zigic and Ferreira’s cases linger long after the final page, making this series a beacon for thoughtful crime fiction.
- Publication Years: 2014–2021
- Number of Books: 6
- Awards: Shortlisted for Theakston’s Crime Novel of the Year and CWA Gold Dagger
Ready to join Zigic and Ferreira on their quest for justice? Grab Long Way Home and step into a world where every case is a fight for truth!