Step into the thrilling world of the Enzo Files, where cold cases, forensic science, and the charm of France collide in a whirlwind of mystery! Written by acclaimed Scottish author Peter May, this gripping series follows Enzo MacLeod, a half-Scottish, half-Italian forensic expert turned university professor, as he tackles unsolved murders across France. With a blend of wit, suspense, and cultural exploration, the Enzo Files is a must-read for fans of crime fiction craving a fresh, immersive experience.
Enzo’s adventures are more than just whodunits—they’re a journey through France’s landscapes, from vineyards to volcanic plateaus, with a dash of personal drama. Whether you’re a fan of CSI-style investigations or love unraveling complex characters, this series hooks you from the first page and keeps you guessing.
How Enzo Files Began
Peter May, a former journalist and television screenwriter, crafted the Enzo Files after his success with The Lewis Trilogy. Inspired by his life in France, where he’s resided for decades, May wanted to create a series that blended his love for forensic science with the rich tapestry of French culture. The result? A charismatic protagonist, Enzo MacLeod, who takes on a bet to solve seven cold cases from a journalist’s book, kicking off a series that’s as much about heart as it is about crime.
May’s meticulous research, including wine-tasting courses for The Critic and consultations with forensic experts, ensures authenticity. His passion for France shines through, making the series a love letter to its settings and a thrilling ride for readers.
The Heart of Enzo Files
The series kicks off with Extraordinary People (2006), where Enzo dives into the disappearance of Jacques Gaillard, a prominent French figure, uncovering body parts in Paris’s catacombs. In The Critic (2007), he investigates the murder of a wine critic in Gaillac, decoding cryptic reviews amidst vineyard rivalries. Blowback (2011) sees Enzo unravel the death of a celebrated chef, Marc Fraysse, in a tale of haute cuisine and hidden secrets. The final book, Cast Iron (2017), follows the murder of Lucie Martin, tying up the series with emotional depth.
The Enzo Files blends forensic precision with themes of loss, family, and redemption. Enzo, a complex hero with a messy personal life—divorced, widowed, and navigating strained relationships with his daughters—brings relatability to the high-stakes mysteries. May’s vivid descriptions of French settings, from bustling markets to snowy hills, make each book a cultural journey. The series’ humor and suspense keep it accessible, while its exploration of cold cases pushes the boundaries of traditional crime fiction.
Why Enzo Files Resonates
The Enzo Files has carved a niche in crime fiction, earning praise for its unique blend of science and storytelling. Fans on Goodreads and Amazon laud May’s ability to weave intricate plots with rich settings, often comparing Enzo to a mix of James Bond and Inspector Clouseau. The series’ focus on cold cases taps into the universal allure of solving the unsolvable, while its French backdrop adds an exotic flair that captivates readers worldwide.
Though less mainstream than May’s Lewis Trilogy, the Enzo Files has a dedicated following, with its final book, Cast Iron, hailed as a strong finale. Its influence lies in proving that niche settings and cerebral sleuths can shine in a crowded genre, inspiring readers to explore beyond typical thrillers.
- Publication Years: 2006–2021 (7 books, including The Night Gate)
- Setting: Various French locales, including Toulouse, Paris, and Gaillac
- Notable Recognition: Peter May won the CWA Dagger in the Library 2021
Ready to crack some cases with Enzo? Grab Extraordinary People and dive into the Enzo Files’ world of mystery, France, and forensic thrills!