Step into the thrilling world of the Erin Solomon Mysteries, where investigative journalist Erin Solomon unravels dark secrets tied to a haunting cult tragedy in her Maine hometown. This gripping pentalogy by Jen Blood blends heart-pounding suspense, gothic mystery, and a touch of romance, delivering a rollercoaster of twists that keeps readers hooked.
With its sharp-witted heroine and serpentine plots, this series invites you to explore the shadows of American history alongside Erin’s quest for truth. Perfect for fans of Dennis Lehane or Iris Johansen, the Erin Solomon Mysteries offer an addictive dive into a world of conspiracies and personal redemption.
How Erin Solomon Mysteries Began
Jen Blood, a USA Today-bestselling author from midcoast Maine, crafted the Erin Solomon Mysteries from her freelance journalism background and love for gothic storytelling. Inspired by authors like Emily Brontë and Dennis Lehane, Blood set out to create a series rich with atmosphere and complex characters. The idea sparked from a chilling premise: a young girl witnessing a cult suicide that would shape her life. Published starting in 2012, the series grew into a critically acclaimed pentalogy, earning accolades like the AIA Seal of Quality for its debut, All the Blue-Eyed Angels.
The Heart of Erin Solomon Mysteries
The series kicks off with All the Blue-Eyed Angels, where Erin, now a seasoned journalist, returns to Payson Isle to investigate the 1990 Payson Church fire that killed 34 members, including her family. Haunted by her past, she teams up with mentor Daniel 'Diggs' Diggins and her dog Einstein, uncovering a web of violence and conspiracy. Sins of the Father dives deeper into her father’s dark history, leading Erin to a Maine town plagued by missing girls. Southern Cross ramps up the stakes with a ritual murder in Kentucky, while The Book of J. delivers a thrilling finale back in Littlehope, Maine, tying up the mystery of the elusive 'J' organization.
Themes of identity, trauma, and resilience weave through the series, with Erin’s journey reflecting her struggle to reconcile her past. Blood’s Maine setting acts as a vivid character, its rugged coastlines and isolated villages amplifying the gothic tone. The series’ fast-paced style, laced with romance and sharp dialogue, appeals to readers craving both emotional depth and edge-of-your-seat suspense.
Why Erin Solomon Mysteries Resonates
The Erin Solomon Mysteries have carved a niche in the thriller genre, praised for their intricate plots and relatable characters. Fans on Goodreads call the series 'thoroughly addictive,' with over 400,000 downloads and multiple Amazon bestseller rankings in mystery and suspense. Blood’s ability to blend historical conspiracies with personal stakes keeps readers invested across five books. Its cult following, though niche, speaks to its emotional impact, especially for those drawn to stories of strong, flawed heroines overcoming adversity.
- Publication Years: 2012–2015
- Number of Books: 5, plus a prequel, Midnight Lullaby
- Awards: AIA Seal of Quality and B.R.A.G. Medallion for All the Blue-Eyed Angels
Grab All the Blue-Eyed Angels and dive into the Erin Solomon Mysteries’ thrilling world of secrets and suspense!