Step into the gritty, pulse-pounding world of D.S. Jessica Daniel, where Manchester’s shadowy streets hold secrets only a sharp-witted detective can unravel! Created by British author Kerry Wilkinson, this crime fiction series follows Detective Sergeant Jessica Daniel, a tenacious and relatable heroine whose knack for solving baffling cases has earned her a spot among the most compelling female detectives in modern literature. With a blend of suspense, humor, and heart, the series captures the essence of Manchester’s urban pulse, making every novel a thrilling ride.
How D.S. Jessica Daniel Began
Kerry Wilkinson, a sports journalist turned bestselling author, launched the Jessica Daniel series in 2011 with Locked In, initially self-published to phenomenal success. Inspired by his love for storytelling and Manchester’s dynamic cityscape, Wilkinson crafted Jessica as a grounded, flawed, yet fiercely determined detective. His debut novel soared to the top of Amazon’s Kindle charts, selling over 250,000 copies, and secured a deal with Pan Macmillan, cementing Jessica’s place in crime fiction.
The Heart of D.S. Jessica Daniel
The series kicks off with Locked In, where Jessica tackles a perplexing murder in a locked house, racing to catch a serial killer dubbed the ‘Houdini Strangler.’ In Vigilante, she hunts a serial killer leaving bodies in Manchester’s underbelly, balancing personal and professional chaos. The Woman in Black sees her investigating severed hands left in the city center, while Think of the Children uncovers a chilling case involving a child’s body in a car boot. Each novel weaves intricate mysteries with Jessica’s sharp sarcasm and compassion.
Set against Manchester’s vivid backdrop, the series treats the city as a character—its gritty estates, bustling stations, and stark contrasts between deprivation and affluence shaping the narrative. Themes of justice, resilience, and human connection shine through, with Jessica’s blunt humor and refusal to conform adding a refreshing edge. Wilkinson’s pacing and twists keep readers hooked, blending police procedural grit with emotional depth.
Why D.S. Jessica Daniel Resonates
The Jessica Daniel series has carved a niche in crime fiction for its authentic portrayal of Manchester and its relatable protagonist. Fans praise Jessica’s complexity—she’s tough yet vulnerable, navigating workplace pressures and personal struggles with wit and heart. Wilkinson’s ability to craft suspenseful plots while exploring social issues, like crime’s impact on communities, has garnered a loyal following. With over two million books sold globally, the series continues to captivate readers seeking smart, character-driven thrillers.
- First Book: Locked In (2011)
- Total Books: 15 novels, plus short stories
- Setting: Manchester, UK
- Awards: Wilkinson won the 2020 International Thriller Writers Award for Close to You
Ready to crack cases with a detective who’s as sharp as she is human? Grab Locked In and dive into D.S. Jessica Daniel’s thrilling Manchester mysteries!