Venture into the misty Irish borderlands, where Inspector Benedict Devlin, the heart of Brian McGilloway’s gripping crime series, unravels mysteries that blur the lines between justice and vengeance. This five-book saga blends pulse-pounding suspense with a deeply human detective, making it a hidden gem in Irish crime fiction that’s perfect for fans of Tana French or Adrian McKinty.
With its evocative setting and morally complex cases, the Inspector Devlin series invites readers to explore a world where past and present collide, and every choice carries weight. Ready to meet a detective who’s as flawed as he is fearless? Let’s dive in!
How Inspector Devlin Began
Brian McGilloway, a Derry-born author and Head of English at St Columb’s College, launched the Inspector Devlin series in 2007 with Borderlands. Inspired by the unique tensions of the Irish borderlands—where Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland meet—McGilloway crafted a series that reflects the region’s complex history and identity. His debut novel, shortlisted for the CWA New Blood Dagger, introduced Benedict Devlin, a Garda Inspector whose sharp intuition and personal struggles captivated readers. McGilloway’s blend of local knowledge and storytelling flair set the stage for a critically acclaimed series.
The Heart of Inspector Devlin
The series spans five novels, each delving into gritty crimes and Devlin’s inner conflicts. Borderlands (2007) kicks off with the murder of a teenage girl found on the border, pulling Devlin into a web of drugs, politics, and past sins. Gallows Lane (2008), shortlisted for the 2009 Irish Book Awards, escalates with a brutal killing and a crucifixion, challenging Devlin’s balance between family and duty. Bleed a River Deep (2009) tackles big business and people-smuggling, earning praise from Publishers Weekly as a Best Book of 2010. The Rising (2010) and The Nameless Dead (2012) deepen the stakes, exploring vigilantism and the Troubles’ lingering scars.
McGilloway’s borderlands setting is a character in itself, its foggy landscapes and divided communities amplifying themes of morality, loyalty, and justice. Devlin, a Catholic family man with a penchant for bending rules, grapples with ethical dilemmas that resonate universally. The series’ tight prose, layered plots, and dry humor create a distinctive voice in the crowded crime genre, offering both thrills and introspection.
Why Inspector Devlin Resonates
The Inspector Devlin series stands out for its authentic portrayal of the Irish borderlands and its unflinching look at human nature. Fans praise Devlin’s relatability—a detective who’s principled yet imperfect, navigating a world where right and wrong blur. The series has earned critical acclaim, with nominations for prestigious awards and translations into multiple languages, cementing McGilloway’s place in Irish crime fiction. Its exploration of post-Troubles Ireland and universal themes of redemption keep it relevant, appealing to readers seeking depth alongside suspense.
- About Inspector Devlin
- Publication Years: 2007–2012
- Number of Books: 5
- Notable Awards: Shortlisted for CWA New Blood Dagger (2007), Irish Book Awards (2009)
- Setting: Irish borderlands (Derry/Donegal)
Ready to lose yourself in a world of crime, conscience, and Irish charm? Grab Borderlands and join Inspector Devlin on a thrilling journey through the borderlands’ shadows!