Step aboard the grand ocean liners of the early 20th century with the Dillman & Masefield series, where mystery, romance, and high-seas intrigue await! Written under the pseudonym Conrad Allen by Welsh author Keith Miles, this eight-novel historical mystery series follows undercover detectives George Porter Dillman and Genevieve Masefield as they unravel crimes on luxurious ships like the Lusitania and Mauretania. Perfect for fans of cozy mysteries and historical fiction, this series invites readers into a glamorous yet perilous world of transatlantic travel.
With its vivid settings and clever whodunits, Dillman & Masefield captures the elegance of a bygone era while keeping you guessing until the final page. Ready to sail into a thrilling adventure? Let’s dive into the series’ origins, stories, and lasting charm!
How Dillman & Masefield Began
In 1999, Keith Miles, a seasoned writer of historical fiction and mysteries, launched the Dillman & Masefield series under the pen name Conrad Allen. A former lecturer with a passion for history, Miles drew inspiration from the golden age of ocean liners, a time when grand ships were the pinnacle of luxury and global connectivity. His goal was to blend the allure of historical settings with the intellectual thrill of classic detective stories, creating a series that feels both escapist and authentic. The result was a unique blend of cozy mystery and historical fiction, with each novel set on a different iconic vessel.
The Heart of Dillman & Masefield
The series kicks off with Murder on the Lusitania (1999), where George Porter Dillman, a suave American private detective, boards the Cunard Line’s famed ship in 1907 to thwart potential crimes. Posing as a first-class passenger, he meets the enigmatic Genevieve Masefield, a sharp-witted Englishwoman escaping a broken engagement. When a theft and murder disrupt the voyage, they team up, sparking a partnership that defines the series. Murder on the Mauretania (2000) follows, with the duo tackling a deadly storm and a gold bullion heist on the Mauretania’s maiden voyage. Murder on the Minnesota (2002) takes them to the Pacific, investigating smuggling on a freighter-passenger ship, while Murder on the Celtic (2007) concludes the series with thefts and a nod to Sherlock Holmes creator Sir Arthur Conan Doyle.
Themes of class, romance, and deception weave through the series, set against the opulent backdrop of early 20th-century liners. The contrast between first-class luxury and steerage struggles adds depth, reflecting societal divides of the era. Allen’s meticulous research brings each ship to life, from dining salons to engine rooms, while the mysteries—ranging from jewel thefts to murders—are tightly plotted and full of red herrings. The evolving relationship between Dillman and Masefield, marked by mutual respect and subtle romance, keeps readers invested, making the series a delightful blend of brainy puzzles and heart.
Why Dillman & Masefield Resonates
Though not a household name, Dillman & Masefield has carved a niche among cozy mystery and historical fiction fans. Its vivid portrayal of ocean liners taps into nostalgia for a time when travel was an event, not just a means to an end. Readers praise the series for its escapist charm and well-crafted mysteries, with reviewers noting Allen’s knack for blending historical accuracy with lighthearted fun. The series’ influence lies in its ability to transport readers to a specific moment in history, offering a window into the glamour and tensions of the pre-WWI era. Its cult following continues to grow, especially among those enchanted by shows like Downton Abbey.
- Publication Years: 1999–2007
- Number of Books: 8
- Author Pseudonym: Conrad Allen (Keith Miles)
- Setting: Early 20th-century ocean liners
Grab Murder on the Lusitania and set sail with Dillman & Masefield for a mystery-filled voyage through the golden age of ocean travel!