Step into the thrilling world of Hillary Greene, where a tenacious detective navigates murder mysteries and personal storms with unyielding grit! Faith Martin’s Hillary Greene series, a gem in the crime fiction genre, follows Detective Inspector Hillary Greene as she tackles complex cases in the picturesque yet perilous Oxfordshire countryside. With her sharp mind and no-nonsense attitude, Greene is a force to be reckoned with, captivating readers across 20 gripping novels.
From her humble beginnings on a narrowboat to her rise as a cold case consultant, Hillary’s journey is one of resilience, making this series a must-read for fans of police procedurals with a strong female lead. Let’s dive into the origins, stories, and lasting charm of this beloved series!
How Hillary Greene Began
Faith Martin, the pen name of English author Jacquie Walton, launched the Hillary Greene series in 2004 with *Murder on the Oxford Canal* (originally *A Narrow Escape*). Inspired by her Oxford roots and love for the countryside, Martin crafted a series set in the Thames Valley Police’s Kidlington headquarters. Hillary, a seasoned detective living on a narrowboat, was born from Martin’s desire to create a relatable yet formidable protagonist whose personal struggles mirror her professional battles. The series’ early success led to republications by Joffe Books, boosting its popularity and cementing Martin’s reputation as a top UK crime writer.
The Heart of Hillary Greene
The series kicks off with *Murder on the Oxford Canal*, where Hillary, reeling from her husband’s corruption scandal, investigates a body found in the canal, uncovering a drug syndicate. In *Murder at the University* (*On the Straight and Narrow*), she tackles a student’s death, navigating academic rivalries. *Murder Never Retires* (*A Narrow Return*) sees Hillary return as a cold case consultant, solving a 20-year-old murder, while *Hillary’s Final Case* (*A Narrow Trajectory*) wraps up her arc with missing persons cases and personal crossroads.
Set against Oxfordshire’s idyllic villages, the series blends cozy mystery charm with gritty police procedurals. Themes of justice, loyalty, and resilience shine through Hillary’s clashes with criminals, corrupt colleagues, and her own past. Martin’s vivid descriptions of wildlife and flora add a unique layer, grounding the stories in the countryside’s beauty. Each book stands alone but builds a rich character arc, making Hillary a fan favorite for her wit and determination.
The series’ style is accessible yet suspenseful, with twists that keep readers guessing. Hillary’s personal life—marked by a messy divorce, a stalker, and workplace politics—adds depth, making her relatable. Fans praise Martin’s ability to balance intricate plots with character-driven storytelling, creating a series that’s both thrilling and heartfelt.
Why Hillary Greene Resonates
The Hillary Greene series has carved a niche in crime fiction, selling over a million copies globally and earning a dedicated Kindle Unlimited following in the UK. Its blend of traditional whodunits and modern procedural elements appeals to fans of authors like Ann Cleeves and Joy Ellis. Hillary’s evolution from a detective under suspicion to a respected consultant mirrors the series’ growth, resonating with readers who value strong, flawed heroines. The series’ Oxfordshire setting and Martin’s nature-infused prose offer a refreshing escape, making it a standout in the genre.
Despite its niche status, the series’ loyal fanbase and critical acclaim highlight its impact. Readers on Goodreads and Amazon rave about its suspenseful plots and Hillary’s compelling journey, with many calling it a “page-turner” that feels like “visiting an old friend.” Its option for film adaptation signals its growing cultural footprint.
- Publication Years: 2004–2021
- Number of Books: 20
- Genre: Police Procedural, Cozy Mystery
- Publisher: Joffe Books (reissues)
Ready to unravel Oxfordshire’s darkest secrets? Grab *Murder on the Oxford Canal* and dive into Hillary Greene’s thrilling world of crime and justice!