Step into the thrilling world of Moriah Dru and Richard Lake, where Atlanta’s dark underbelly meets heart-pounding mystery and a touch of romance! Penned by Gerrie Ferris Finger, this captivating series blends gritty child disappearance cases with the dynamic partnership of a former detective and her police lieutenant lover. Perfect for fans of suspenseful crime novels, it’s a journey you won’t want to miss.
From tracking international trafficking rings to infiltrating outlaw biker gangs, Moriah Dru and Richard Lake tackle cases that keep readers on edge. Set against the vibrant backdrop of Atlanta, this series stands out for its fearless exploration of society’s shadows and the hope that justice brings.
How Moriah Dru / Richard Lake Began
Gerrie Ferris Finger, a retired journalist from The Atlanta Journal-Constitution, crafted the Moriah Dru / Richard Lake series after years of covering real-life crime. Her debut novel, The End Game, won the 2009 Malice Domestic Best First Traditional Mystery Novel Competition, launching the series with critical acclaim. Inspired by her reporting on gritty Southern stories, Finger created Moriah Dru, a former cop turned child-finder, and Richard Lake, her homicide detective partner, to tackle the complex world of missing children cases.
Finger’s background infused the series with authenticity, from Atlanta’s neighborhoods to the emotional weight of her characters’ missions. Her goal? To weave mysteries where justice prevails, offering a hopeful contrast to the often bleak realities she witnessed as a journalist.
The Heart of Moriah Dru / Richard Lake
The series kicks off with The End Game (2010), where Dru and Lake race to save two sisters abducted after their foster parents’ murder in Atlanta’s Cabbagetown. The trail leads to a chilling child trafficking ring, setting the tone for the series’ intense stakes. In The Last Temptation (2012), the duo heads to Palm Springs to find a missing mother and daughter, unraveling a web of custody disputes and murder. The Devil Laughed (2013) sees them investigating a sailboat’s mysterious disappearance on Lake Lanier, uncovering secrets tied to a cold case. Wolf’s Clothing (2018) shifts gears as they hunt for Buddy, a beloved police dog, exposing an investment scam and a mega-church’s shady finances.
Themes of child protection, societal corruption, and resilience run deep, with Atlanta’s diverse settings—from gritty streets to affluent suburbs—adding texture. Finger’s style balances fast-paced plots with character-driven moments, like Dru and Lake’s steady romance, which avoids cliché will-they-won’t-they drama. The series doesn’t shy away from dark topics like trafficking and abuse, yet it maintains a hopeful tone through the duo’s relentless pursuit of truth.
Each book stands alone, thanks to Finger’s knack for weaving in backstory, making it easy for newcomers to jump in. Her vivid portrayal of Atlanta, paired with morally complex mysteries, keeps readers hooked across the seven novels.
Why Moriah Dru / Richard Lake Resonates
The Moriah Dru / Richard Lake series has carved a niche in the mystery genre for its unflinching look at child-related crimes and its compelling lead duo. Fans praise the authentic Southern atmosphere and the emotional depth of Dru’s mission to protect vulnerable children. The series’ blend of suspense, romance, and social commentary appeals to readers who crave more than just a whodunit.
Though not a household name, the series has a loyal following, with The End Game’s award win cementing Finger’s reputation. Its focus on justice and human connection continues to resonate, offering a gripping escape for mystery lovers seeking stories with heart and grit.
- First Book Published: 2010 (The End Game)
- Number of Books: 7
- Award: Malice Domestic Best First Traditional Mystery Novel (2009) for The End Game
- Setting: Atlanta, Georgia
Ready to dive into a mystery that’s equal parts thrilling and heartfelt? Grab The End Game and join Moriah Dru and Richard Lake in their quest for justice in Atlanta’s shadowy corners!