Step into the gritty, pulse-pounding world of the Resurrection Man series, where Yorkshire cop Jim Grant tackles crime with fists, wit, and a knack for trouble! Crafted by Colin Campbell, this crime fiction saga blends thrilling action, complex characters, and vivid settings across six novels and two short stories. From Boston’s shadowy streets to LA’s seedy underbelly, Grant’s unorthodox methods make every page a wild ride.
Perfect for fans of Lee Child or Michael Connelly, Resurrection Man delivers raw authenticity and high-stakes drama. Ready to meet the cop who can’t stay out of trouble? Let’s dive into this electrifying series!
How Resurrection Man Began
Colin Campbell, a former British soldier and 30-year veteran of the West Yorkshire Police, channeled his real-world experience into the Resurrection Man series. After retiring in 2006, Campbell turned his knack for storytelling into a full-time career, debuting with Jamaica Plain in 2013. Inspired by his gritty police work and love for classic films like The Dirty Dozen, Campbell created Jim Grant—a rogue cop whose adventures echo the hard-boiled heroes of noir fiction.
Campbell’s goal? To craft stories with authentic grit and crackling dialogue, set against vibrant American cityscapes. His police background and sharp eye for detail gave the series its edge, earning praise from authors like Lee Child and a loyal following among crime fiction fans.
The Heart of Resurrection Man
The series kicks off with Jamaica Plain, where Jim Grant arrives in Boston to interview a prisoner but stumbles into a bombing plot. His fearless stance against a gunman earns him the nickname 'Resurrection Man,' setting the tone for his chaotic adventures. In Montecito Heights, Grant dives into LA’s porn industry to rescue a senator’s daughter, navigating moral gray areas with his trademark tenacity.
Adobe Flats takes Grant to Texas, where a personal mission spirals into a showdown with a local kingpin. Meanwhile, Beacon Hill sees him unraveling a twisted crime involving Boston’s elite, blending dark humor and relentless action. Themes of justice, loyalty, and cultural clashes shine through, with Grant’s outsider perspective as a British cop in America adding depth. Campbell’s vivid settings—Boston’s gritty neighborhoods, LA’s neon haze—immerse readers, while his noir-infused style keeps the tension high.
Grant’s character drives the series: a laconic, tough-as-nails detective with a sharp mind and a lion’s heart. His love for classic films and disdain for bureaucracy make him relatable, while his moral compass guides him through corruption and chaos. The series’ blend of action, suspense, and character-driven storytelling makes it a standout in crime fiction.
Why Resurrection Man Resonates
Resurrection Man has carved a niche in crime fiction with its raw authenticity and roller-coaster pacing. Critics, like Kirkus Reviews, praise its 'taut, gritty' narratives and 'devilish twists,' while readers love Grant’s stubborn heroism. The series’ blend of cultural commentary—exploring the clash between British and American law enforcement—adds a unique layer, resonating with fans of gritty thrillers.
Though not a household name, the series’ cult following and Campbell’s growing reputation signal its lasting appeal. Its influence lies in proving that lesser-known series can deliver big thrills, inspiring readers to seek out hidden gems in the genre.
- Publication Years: 2013–2018
- Number of Books: 6 novels, 2 short stories
- Key Fans: Lee Child, Reed Farrel Coleman
- Author’s Background: Ex-soldier, retired cop, Yorkshire resident
Grab Jamaica Plain and dive into the Resurrection Man’s thrilling world of crime, grit, and justice!