Dive into the pulse-pounding world of the Forgotten Files series, where Virginia’s shadowy corners hide serial killers, secrets, and a touch of romance! Penned by Mary Burton, this thrilling trio of romantic suspense novels blends gritty crime investigations with heartfelt connections, keeping readers on the edge of their seats. With meticulous forensic details and complex characters, it’s no wonder Burton’s work is a fan favorite.
Perfect for lovers of Lisa Gardner or James Patterson, Forgotten Files delivers chills, thrills, and just the right amount of heart. Ready to unravel mysteries alongside determined investigators? Let’s explore this captivating series!
How Forgotten Files Began
Mary Burton, a Richmond native with a knack for storytelling, crafted the Forgotten Files series to showcase her love for suspense and Virginia’s evocative landscapes. After years in marketing, Burton turned to writing, drawing inspiration from her hometown’s history and her hands-on research with law enforcement. Published between 2016 and 2017, the series reflects her passion for forensic accuracy, honed through firing range lessons and forensic seminars.
Burton’s goal was to weave standalone stories with interconnected themes, each novel diving into a new case but tied by Virginia’s haunting backdrop. The result? A series that feels both intimate and expansive, with characters who linger long after the final page.
The Heart of Forgotten Files
The Forgotten Files series comprises three gripping novels: The Shark, The Dollmaker, and The Hangman. In The Shark (2016), Virginia state trooper Riley Tatum confronts her past when a teen’s murder echoes her own teenage trauma, teaming up with former flame Clay Bowman to stop a serial killer. The Dollmaker (2016) follows forensic pathologist Tessa McGowan and agent Dakota Sharp as they hunt a psycho transforming victims into grotesque dolls. The Hangman (2017) centers on detective Julia Vargas, unraveling a decades-old killing spree tied to her father’s legacy.
Themes of trauma, redemption, and justice pulse through the series, set against Virginia’s moody rivers and forests. Burton’s style shines with shifting perspectives, letting readers peek into the minds of detectives, victims, and even killers. Her authentic portrayal of police procedures—think DNA analysis and crime scene grit—grounds the romance in high-stakes reality, making every twist feel visceral.
The romantic suspense genre thrives on balance, and Burton nails it. Each book pairs heart-pounding investigations with simmering chemistry, ensuring the stakes feel personal. Whether it’s Riley and Clay’s rekindled spark or Tessa and Dakota’s strained partnership, the romance amplifies the suspense without overshadowing it.
Why Forgotten Files Resonates
Forgotten Files has carved a niche in romantic suspense, earning praise for its meticulous research and emotional depth. Fans love Burton’s ability to craft heroines who are tough yet vulnerable, facing down killers while wrestling with personal demons. The series’ Virginia setting adds a layer of authenticity, making each crime scene feel like it could happen just down the road.
Burton’s work has landed on USA Today bestseller lists, and her storytelling draws comparisons to heavyweights like Lisa Jackson. By blending forensic precision with human connection, Forgotten Files appeals to readers who crave both intellectual and emotional payoffs. Its lasting appeal lies in its ability to make you root for justice—and love—in equal measure.
- Publication Years: 2016–2017
- Number of Books: 3
- Setting: Virginia
- Genres: Romantic Suspense, Thriller, Police Procedural
Grab The Shark and plunge into the Forgotten Files’ world of mystery, romance, and relentless suspense. Your next favorite thriller awaits!