Step into the thrilling world of Forensic Geology, where rocks tell tales and danger lurks beneath California’s rugged landscapes! Toni Dwiggins’ Forensic Geology series blends mystery, thriller, and eco-fiction, following forensic geologists Cassie Oldfield and Walter Shaws as they unravel crimes using earth’s secrets. With gripping plots and a nod to environmental issues, this indie gem has hooked readers with its unique spin on sleuthing.
Picture this: a deserted boat off the California coast, a missing mayor in a volcanic town, or a radioactive threat in Death Valley. Cassie and Walter don’t just solve murders—they tackle eco-disasters with geological know-how, making every page a pulse-pounding adventure. Ready to dig into this spellbinding series? Let’s explore its origins, stories, and why it’s a must-read!
How Forensic Geology Began
A third-generation Californian, Toni Dwiggins grew up hiking the Sierra Mountains, kayaking the Pacific, and collecting rocks that sparked her love for geology. Her passion deepened when she stumbled upon a forensic geology textbook, inspired by Sherlock Holmes’ early use of soil clues. A tour of a real forensic geology lab—where a single grain of sand revealed a world under a microscope—sealed her fate. Dwiggins merged her rock-hound roots with her knack for mystery, crafting a series that’s as educational as it is thrilling.
Self-published and proudly indie, the series kicked off in 2011 with Badwater, earning critical acclaim like the Wired.com Best Indie Whodunit award. Dwiggins’ hands-on outdoor experiences and consultations with experts ensure her stories ring true, blending science with suspense in a way that captivates readers.
The Heart of Forensic Geology
The series follows Cassie Oldfield, a sharp young geologist, and her mentor Walter Shaws, a seasoned pro, as they run Sierra Geoforensics. In Quicksilver (Book 1), they hunt a missing man in California’s gold country, uncovering a mercury-poisoning eco-crisis tied to greed. Badwater (Book 2) pits them against a nuclear terrorist in Death Valley’s scorching desert, where stolen radioactive waste threatens catastrophe. Volcano Watch (Book 3) sees them racing to solve a mayor’s murder in Mammoth Lakes as a volcano stirs, blending small-town drama with geologic peril. River Run (Book 5) takes them to the Grand Canyon, investigating a rafting accident that hides ecological terrorism.
Dwiggins’ tales weave forensic science with California’s diverse settings—deserts, mountains, and seas—making the landscape a vivid character. Themes of environmental stewardship shine through, highlighting issues like mercury contamination and nuclear waste. Her style is fast-paced yet rich, with suspenseful plots and just enough geological detail to fascinate without overwhelming. Fans love the balance of heart-pounding action and thought-provoking eco-fiction, calling it “spellbinding” and “a new twist on forensics.”
Why Forensic Geology Resonates
The Forensic Geology series stands out in the crowded mystery-thriller genre by putting geology front and center, appealing to science buffs and adventure seekers alike. Its indie status hasn’t stopped it from earning a USA Today bestselling nod and a loyal fan base, drawn to its blend of education and entertainment. Dwiggins’ focus on environmental crises feels urgent, resonating with readers who care about the planet’s future.
From amateur rockhounds to thriller fans, the series offers a fresh take on crime-solving, proving that dirt and stones can be as compelling as fingerprints. Its vivid California settings and relatable characters—like the father-daughter dynamic between Cassie and Walter—keep readers coming back, with five books and counting.
- First Book Published: 2011 (Badwater)
- Number of Books: 5
- Awards: Best Indie Whodunit, Wired.com (2012) for Badwater
- Setting: California and Grand Canyon
Grab Quicksilver and dive into Forensic Geology’s thrilling world of rocks, mysteries, and eco-adventures! Whether you’re a geology geek or just love a good whodunit, Cassie and Walter’s wild rides will keep you hooked.