Dive into the gritty, pulse-pounding world of Matthew Hawkwood, where Regency London’s darkest corners come alive with danger and intrigue! James McGee’s historical thriller series follows Matthew Hawkwood, a former soldier turned Bow Street Runner, as he hunts spies, thieves, and murderers with a mix of charm, cunning, and raw courage. Perfect for fans of historical adventures with a noir edge, this series blends vivid period detail with heart-stopping action.
Picture yourself in 1811, where the Napoleonic Wars cast a shadow over Britain, and London’s streets teem with rogues and rebels. Hawkwood, a battle-hardened hero with a shadowy past, navigates this chaotic world, making him the ultimate Regency-era detective. Ready to uncover his story? Let’s step into the shadows!
How Matthew Hawkwood Began
James McGee, a former banker and bookseller with a passion for the Napoleonic era, crafted the Matthew Hawkwood series to bring Regency London’s underbelly to life. Inspired by historical figures like the Bow Street Runners—London’s first professional police force—McGee introduced Hawkwood in 2006 with Ratcatcher. His goal was to create a hero who thrived in both military and criminal worlds, blending the grit of Bernard Cornwell’s Sharpe with the cunning of a Regency James Bond. McGee’s travels and love for C.S. Forester’s novels fueled the series’ authentic, immersive feel.
The Heart of Matthew Hawkwood
The series kicks off with Ratcatcher (2006), where Hawkwood investigates a highwayman’s murder of a naval courier, uncovering a Napoleonic plot to cripple Britain’s navy. In Resurrectionist (2007), he dives into the gruesome world of body-snatching, facing a mad scientist in the eerie depths of Bedlam asylum. Rapscallion (2008) sends Hawkwood undercover on prison hulks to bust a smuggling ring, while The Reckoning (2017) returns him to London to solve a young woman’s murder, revealing government secrets.
Themes of loyalty, justice, and moral ambiguity run deep. Hawkwood’s military past—cashiered from the 95th Rifles after a duel—shapes his rogue streak, while his Bow Street role demands order. McGee’s London is a character itself: filthy, vibrant, and divided between opulent salons and squalid slums. The series’ style is fast-paced yet richly detailed, with action scenes that leap off the page and ethical dilemmas that linger.
Each book weaves historical events, like Robert Fulton’s submarine or the Malet Conspiracy, into thrilling plots. Hawkwood’s charm and flaws—think a dashing anti-hero with a knack for trouble—make him endlessly compelling. Whether he’s battling traitors or his own demons, the series keeps you hooked.
Why Matthew Hawkwood Resonates
The Matthew Hawkwood series stands out for its raw, unfiltered take on Regency London, far from the polished ballrooms of romance novels. Fans praise McGee’s meticulous research and vivid world-building, which transport readers to a time of war and upheaval. Hawkwood’s blend of grit and charisma has earned comparisons to Jack Reacher and James Bond, appealing to readers who crave action with depth. Though not a household name, the series has a loyal cult following, with reviewers calling it a hidden gem for historical thriller enthusiasts.
Its impact lies in its niche: a gritty, character-driven saga that balances historical accuracy with modern thrills. As one Goodreads fan put it, “Hawkwood’s world is dirty, dangerous, and impossible to put down.” For those seeking an alternative to mainstream historical fiction, this series delivers.
- First Book: Ratcatcher (2006)
- Total Books: Six
- Setting: Regency London, Napoleonic Wars
- Notable Praise: “A darkly attractive hero, terrific period atmosphere” — The Times
Ready to chase villains through London’s fog? Grab Ratcatcher and join Matthew Hawkwood’s thrilling world of spies, secrets, and suspense!