Step into the thrilling world of the Nathan Hawk Mystery series, where a fiery ex-copper turned private detective unravels complex crimes in the charming English countryside! Created by Douglas Watkinson, this modern murder mystery series blends classic British whodunit vibes with sharp wit and deep personal stakes. Nathan Hawk, a retired police officer with a volcanic temper and a soft heart, captivates readers as he solves murders while juggling his chaotic family life.
With its quintessential English settings and intricate plots, the series offers a delightful escape for fans of crime fiction. Whether you’re drawn to clever mysteries or compelling characters, Nathan Hawk’s adventures promise a gripping ride. Let’s explore how this series came to life, its key stories, and why it’s a hidden gem in the mystery genre.
How Nathan Hawk Mystery Began
Douglas Watkinson, a seasoned English novelist and screenwriter known for penning episodes of Midsomer Murders and Agatha Christie’s Poirot, crafted the Nathan Hawk Mystery series to celebrate the unpredictable charm of a quintessentially British detective. Drawing on his extensive television writing experience, Watkinson introduced Nathan Hawk in 2013 with Haggard Hawk. Inspired by his love for English landscapes and a desire to create a detective who defies the moody loner stereotype, Watkinson gave Hawk a fiery personality, four grown children, and a knack for stumbling into murders. The series reflects Watkinson’s knack for blending humor, heart, and suspense, rooted in his own experiences as a father and storyteller.
The Heart of Nathan Hawk Mystery
The Nathan Hawk Mystery series kicks off with Haggard Hawk (2013), where Nathan, freshly sacked from the police for his temper, finds purpose when a neighbor is murdered. His unauthorized sleuthing pits him against local police, unraveling a web of deceit in the idyllic countryside. Easy Prey (2013) takes Hawk to Scotland’s Outer Hebrides, searching for a barrister’s missing daughter, blending revenge and personal stakes as his own daughter’s brief disappearance hits close to home. Scattered Remains (2013) sees Hawk investigating a mysterious titanium plate, leading to a chilling cover-up. White Crane (2017) transports him from Chiswick to China, chasing a missing woman and a connected murder.
The series shines through its themes of family, redemption, and instinct-driven justice. Hawk’s relationships with his far-flung children and his new love interest, Dr. Laura Peterson, add emotional depth to the fast-paced mysteries. Set against vividly real English villages and beyond, Watkinson’s cinematic writing—honed from years in television—creates immersive, twist-filled plots. The blend of humor, complex characters, and classic mystery elements makes each book a page-turner for fans of traditional and modern procedurals alike.
Why Nathan Hawk Mystery Resonates
The Nathan Hawk Mystery series has carved a niche among crime fiction fans for its fresh take on the British detective archetype. Readers praise Hawk’s relatability—a flawed, witty hero navigating retirement and parenthood while outsmarting killers. Watkinson’s storytelling, steeped in the tradition of Midsomer Murders, appeals to those craving authentic English settings and clever mysteries. Though not a household name, the series’ loyal following on platforms like Goodreads highlights its appeal as a cozy yet thrilling escape. Its blend of personal drama and intricate plotting ensures it remains a standout for mystery enthusiasts seeking something off the beaten path.
- Publication Range: 2013–2017
- Number of Books: At least six, including Haggard Hawk, Easy Prey, Scattered Remains, Evil Turn, Jericho Road, and White Crane
- Author’s Background: Douglas Watkinson, renowned for Midsomer Murders and Poirot
Ready to dive into a mystery that’s equal parts heart and suspense? Grab Haggard Hawk and join Nathan Hawk’s thrilling adventures in the Nathan Hawk Mystery series today!