Step into the electrifying world of Knight and Devlin, where Boston’s gritty streets and high-stakes courtrooms collide in a pulse-pounding legal thriller series! Written by John F. Dobbyn, the Knight and Devlin books follow attorneys Michael Knight and Lex Devlin as they tackle impossible cases, unravel corruption, and fight for justice against dangerous odds. Perfect for fans of John Grisham and Lisa Scottoline, this series blends sharp wit, intricate mysteries, and the vibrant backdrop of Boston’s underbelly.
With a knack for weaving suspense and heart, Dobbyn invites readers into a world where every case is a battle, and every clue could mean life or death. Whether you’re a legal thriller junkie or just love a good mystery, Knight and Devlin will keep you flipping pages late into the night.
How Knight and Devlin Began
John F. Dobbyn, a former law professor at Villanova and a Boston native, crafted the Knight and Devlin series from his deep knowledge of the legal world and love for storytelling. Before penning novels, Dobbyn honed his craft with short stories in Alfred Hitchcock’s Mystery Magazine and Ellery Queen’s Mystery Magazine, including the Shamus Award finalist 'Trumpeter Swan,' which introduced Michael Knight and Lex Devlin. His debut novel, Neon Dragon, published in 2007, launched the series, drawing on his experiences as a trial lawyer and his passion for Boston’s rich, multifaceted culture.
Dobbyn’s inspiration? A desire to capture the moral complexities of justice and the adrenaline of legal battles, all set in a city he knows like the back of his hand. The result is a series that feels authentic, gripping, and uniquely Bostonian.
The Heart of Knight and Devlin
The Knight and Devlin series spans six novels, each a standalone thriller packed with suspense and layered characters. In Neon Dragon (2007), Michael Knight, a young Harvard-educated lawyer, teams up with seasoned attorney Lex Devlin to defend a student accused of murder during Boston’s Chinese New Year. Their investigation uncovers drugs, human trafficking, and a corruption scandal threatening Boston’s elite. Frame-Up (2010) sees the duo navigating art fraud and mob ties after a friend’s murder, while Black Diamond (2011) dives into horse race fixing, pitting them against Boston’s Irish mafia and IRA remnants. Deadly Diamonds (2013) takes the stakes global, tackling blood diamonds and child slavery across Boston, Dublin, and Sierra Leone.
At its core, the series explores justice, corruption, and the gray areas of morality. Dobbyn’s Boston setting—from Chinatown’s shadowy alleys to Suffolk Downs’ racetracks—becomes a character itself, vivid and alive. His style blends taut courtroom drama with street-smart investigations, laced with wry humor and emotional depth. Themes of loyalty, redemption, and the cost of truth resonate, making each book both a thrill ride and a reflection on human nature.
Michael Knight, with his raw passion and quick wit, contrasts Lex Devlin’s seasoned wisdom, creating a dynamic partnership that anchors the series. Their cases often spiral into international conspiracies, yet Dobbyn keeps the focus on personal stakes—friends, family, and ideals worth fighting for.
Why Knight and Devlin Resonates
The Knight and Devlin series stands out in the legal thriller genre for its authentic voice and relentless pacing. Dobbyn’s insider knowledge of law and Boston’s criminal world gives the books a grounded edge, while his storytelling flair earns praise from authors like Lisa Scottoline and James Rollins. Fans love the series for its blend of high-octane action and moral weight, often comparing it to early John Grisham for its courtroom intensity and Robert Ludlum for its global intrigue.
Though not a household name, the series has a loyal following, with readers hooked on its vivid settings and unforgettable characters. Its niche appeal lies in its ability to make Boston’s complexities accessible, inviting readers to explore a world where justice is never simple but always worth pursuing.
- First Book: Neon Dragon (2007)
- Total Books: 6
- Notable Award: 'Trumpeter Swan' (short story), Shamus Award finalist
- Setting: Boston, with global elements in later books
Ready to dive into Boston’s thrilling legal underworld? Grab Neon Dragon and join Knight and Devlin on a heart-pounding quest for justice!