Step into the shadowy streets of Nowhere, where the Rafferty Family series by Nancy Bush weaves a thrilling tapestry of romantic suspense and murder mystery! Since its debut in 2012, this bestselling collection has hooked readers with its pulse-pounding plots, steamy romances, and a cast of unforgettable characters, led by the sharp-witted Detective September Rafferty. Perfect for fans of Lisa Jackson or Tana French, this series blends heart-racing action with emotional depth, making every page a gripping adventure.
Whether you’re chasing clues alongside September or swooning over a dangerous love interest, the Rafferty Family books promise a rollercoaster of twists and turns. Let’s dive into the origins, stories, and lasting allure of this captivating series!
How Rafferty Family Began
Nancy Bush, a New York Times and USA Today bestselling author, kicked off the Rafferty Family series (also known as the Nowhere series) with a passion for merging romance and suspense. A former romance novelist and soap opera writer for *All My Children*, Bush found her true calling in crafting intricate mysteries. Inspired by her love for whodunits and her collaboration with her sister, Lisa Jackson, she launched *Nowhere to Run* in 2012, introducing the fictional town of Nowhere and the Rafferty siblings. Her goal? To create stories that keep readers guessing while tugging at their heartstrings.
The Heart of Rafferty Family
The series, set in the eerie, small-town vibe of Nowhere, Oregon, follows Detective September Rafferty and her brother August as they unravel chilling crimes. Each book introduces fresh protagonists while weaving September’s investigations into the narrative, creating a cohesive yet varied saga. Key titles include *Nowhere to Run*, where Liv Dugan uncovers secrets tied to a deadly shooting, and *Nowhere to Hide*, where September hunts a serial killer carving cryptic messages into victims’ flesh. *Nowhere Safe* escalates the stakes with a vigilante killer, while *The Killing Game* explores a mastermind murderer targeting Andi Wren.
Bush’s stories pulse with themes of vengeance, trust, and redemption, wrapped in a romantic suspense framework. The Nowhere setting amplifies the tension, with its isolated, almost claustrophobic atmosphere mirroring the characters’ emotional struggles. Her writing style—fast-paced, twist-heavy, and character-driven—keeps readers on edge, while the romantic subplots add warmth to the darkness. Fans praise the unpredictable plots and September’s tenacity, making each book a standalone thrill with series-long connections.
Why Rafferty Family Resonates
The Rafferty Family series has carved a niche in romantic suspense, earning rave reviews for its gripping narratives and emotional depth. Publications like *Publishers Weekly* and *Suspense Magazine* laud Bush’s ability to blend heart-pounding thrills with relatable characters, appealing to both mystery buffs and romance enthusiasts. Its impact lies in its balance: the stakes feel personal, the killers are chillingly real, and the romances spark just enough hope to keep readers invested. For fans, it’s a series that feels like catching up with old friends in a town where danger lurks around every corner.
With its loyal fanbase and critical acclaim, the series continues to inspire readers to explore the genre, proving that small-town secrets can pack a universal punch. Bush’s knack for reinventing suspense ensures the Rafferty Family remains a must-read for anyone craving a thrilling escape.
- First Book Published: *Nowhere to Run* (2012)
- Number of Books: Five (as of 2025)
- Key Character: Detective September Rafferty
- Setting: Nowhere, Oregon
Ready to unravel the mysteries of Nowhere? Grab *Nowhere to Run* and dive into the Rafferty Family’s world of suspense, romance, and shocking twists!