Step into the sun-soaked, suspense-filled world of the Larry Macklin Mysteries, where rural Florida’s quiet charm hides dark secrets and thrilling cases! Penned by A.E. Howe, this captivating crime fiction series follows Deputy Sheriff Larry Macklin, a relatable investigator tackling murders, corruption, and small-town drama with wit and grit. With a loyal Great Dane named Mauser and a sheriff father watching his every move, Larry’s adventures blend heart, humor, and mystery in a way that keeps readers hooked.
From the lush piney woods to the quirky dynamics of Adams County, Howe’s vivid storytelling paints a Southern backdrop that feels alive. Whether you’re a fan of police procedurals or just love a good whodunit, this series offers a fresh, grounded take on the genre that’s hard to put down.
How Larry Macklin Mysteries Began
A.E. Howe, a North Florida farmer with a knack for storytelling, launched the Larry Macklin Mysteries in 2016, drawing from his love of rural life and crime fiction. A University of Georgia graduate and co-host of the 'Guns of Hollywood' podcast, Howe infused his experiences as a screenwriter and playwright into the series. Inspired by the tight-knit communities and hidden tensions of small-town Florida, he created Larry Macklin—a deputy navigating complex cases under the shadow of his sheriff father, Ted. The series debuted with November’s Past, quickly gaining traction for its authentic characters and fast-paced plots.
The Heart of Larry Macklin Mysteries
The series kicks off with November’s Past (2016), where Larry investigates a mutilated stranger’s murder tied to an arson case and a group of 1970s high school friends—including his own dad. In December’s Secrets (2016), Larry faces departmental corruption while unraveling a new murder mystery. June’s Troubles (2018) takes him on a chaotic vacation-turned-investigation when a body washes up near his Florida coast getaway. By Summer’s Rage (2020), the 14th book, Larry tackles a murky murder-suicide in a tangled family dynasty, proving the series’ knack for fresh twists.
Howe’s stories weave themes of loyalty, family ties, and the clash between rural tranquility and hidden crime. The lush, tactile setting of North Florida—think pine forests and humid air—grounds the action, while Larry’s humor and Mauser’s antics add levity. Unlike gritty urban thrillers, the series leans into small-town quirks, like nosy neighbors and eccentric informants, making each case feel personal. Fans praise Howe’s clean dialogue and unpredictable plots, which balance suspense with relatable character growth.
Why Larry Macklin Mysteries Resonates
The Larry Macklin Mysteries have carved a niche in crime fiction by blending Southern charm with gripping procedurals. Readers love Larry’s everyman appeal—a deputy who doubts himself but rises to the challenge—making him a refreshing contrast to hard-boiled detectives. The series’ focus on community and family dynamics resonates with fans of authors like John Sandford or C.J. Box, while its rural Florida setting offers a unique lens on the genre. With over a dozen books and a growing fanbase, Howe’s creation continues to captivate, proving that small towns can hide the biggest mysteries.
- First Book Published: 2016 (November’s Past)
- Total Books: 17 (as of 2021)
- Setting: Adams County, North Florida
- Genre: Crime Fiction/Police Procedural
Grab November’s Past and dive into the Larry Macklin Mysteries’ world of Southern suspense and clever sleuthing! Whether you’re solving crimes with Larry or chuckling at Mauser’s chaos, this series promises a thrilling ride.