Step into the misty, mesmerizing world of the Lake District Mysteries, where cold case crimes unravel against the breathtaking backdrop of England’s Lake District! Penned by acclaimed British author Martin Edwards, this crime thriller series pairs the sharp-witted DCI Hannah Scarlett with historian Daniel Kind to solve long-buried mysteries. With its blend of intricate plots, rich historical intrigue, and a setting that’s practically a character itself, this series is a must-read for fans of atmospheric whodunits.
From the rugged fells to serene lakes, the Lake District isn’t just a setting—it’s the heartbeat of these stories, weaving local legends and gothic undertones into every case. Whether you’re a mystery buff or simply love a good tale set in a stunning locale, the Lake District Mysteries will pull you in and keep you guessing!
How Lake District Mysteries Began
Martin Edwards, a CWA Diamond Dagger winner and crime fiction aficionado, launched the Lake District Mysteries in 2004 with The Coffin Trail. Inspired by the haunting beauty of Cumbria’s Lake District, Edwards crafted a series that married his love for classic detective stories with modern cold case investigations. As a solicitor-turned-author, he drew on his legal expertise to create authentic police procedurals, while his passion for the region’s history and landscapes shaped the series’ unique flavor. The result? A fresh take on British crime fiction that’s both timeless and contemporary.
The Heart of Lake District Mysteries
The series kicks off with The Coffin Trail, where Daniel Kind, an Oxford historian, and his partner Miranda buy a cottage in Brackdale, only to uncover secrets tied to a past murder. In The Cipher Garden, a brutal scythe murder in Old Sawrey prompts Hannah Scarlett’s Cold Case Review Team to dig into a case filled with poison pen letters and hidden motives. The Arsenic Labyrinth explores a decade-old disappearance linked to eerie stone tunnels, while The Serpent Pool delves into a drowning case with ties to Victorian essayist Thomas De Quincey’s musings on murder.
At its core, the series blends themes of obsession, betrayal, and the inescapable weight of the past. Edwards’ crisp prose and knack for psychological depth make each book a page-turner, while the evolving relationship between Hannah and Daniel—marked by dangerous attraction—adds emotional stakes. The Lake District itself, with its idyllic valleys and ominous legends, amplifies the gothic atmosphere, making every twist feel both grounded and otherworldly.
Unlike cozy mysteries, these stories aren’t afraid to get dark, tackling gritty crimes like murder and adultery with wit and humanity. Fans praise Edwards for his authentic characters and clever red herrings, which keep readers hooked through each standalone yet interconnected tale.
Why Lake District Mysteries Resonates
The Lake District Mysteries have carved a niche in crime fiction, earning accolades like a shortlist for the Theakston’s Old Peculier Award for The Coffin Trail. Readers worldwide are drawn to the series’ vivid sense of place, which makes the Lake District feel alive and integral to each plot. Edwards’ ability to weave historical and literary references—think Ruskin or De Quincey—into modern mysteries appeals to both genre fans and literary enthusiasts.
Beyond its critical success, the series has a loyal following for its relatable characters and immersive storytelling. It’s a love letter to the Lake District, inviting readers to explore its beauty and secrets through a lens of suspense. As Edwards continues the series, with titles like The Crooked Shore, its legacy as a standout in British crime fiction only grows.
- Publication Years: 2004–2021
- Number of Books: 8
- Notable Award: The Coffin Trail shortlisted for Theakston’s Old Peculier Award (2006)
Ready to unravel some chilling secrets? Grab The Coffin Trail and dive into the Lake District Mysteries’ captivating world of crime and intrigue!