Step into the cozy yet thrilling world of Rina Martin, where a retired actress turned amateur sleuth uncovers dark secrets in the sleepy seaside town of Frantham, England! Jane Adams’ Rina Martin mystery series blends sharp wit, complex characters, and gripping plots, making it a must-read for fans of Agatha Christie and modern cozy mysteries. With seven novels packed with intrigue, Rina’s adventures prove that even a quiet coastal village hides chilling mysteries.
At 63, Rina Martin is no ordinary retiree. After starring as a private investigator in the TV series Lydia Marchant Investigates, she swaps the spotlight for a peaceful life running a bed-and-breakfast. But trouble follows her, and alongside her friend, Detective Inspector Sebastian ‘Mac’ McGregor, Rina dives into cases that unravel Frantham’s tranquil facade.
How Rina Martin Began
Jane Adams, a British author with over forty crime novels, launched the Rina Martin series in 2007 with A Reason to Kill. Born in Leicestershire, Adams drew on her vivid imagination and sociology background to craft stories that explore human nature’s darker sides. Inspired by classic cozy mysteries, she created Rina as a modern Miss Marple—sharp, observant, and unafraid to meddle. Published by Severn House, the series quickly gained traction for its engaging characters and atmospheric seaside setting.
Adams’ own journey as a writer, from lead vocalist in a folk rock band to a celebrated novelist, shaped Rina’s eclectic world. Her debut novel, The Greenway, earned nominations for the CWA John Creasey Award, setting the stage for Rina’s success. The series’ inception reflected Adams’ love for storytelling, where ordinary settings conceal extraordinary secrets.
The Heart of Rina Martin
The Rina Martin series spans seven books, each weaving standalone mysteries with recurring characters. A Reason to Kill (2007) introduces Rina as she investigates a brutal murder in Frantham, joined by Mac, who’s recovering from a botched case, and George Parker, a boy fleeing a violent past. Fragile Lives (2008) sees a body wash ashore, pulling Rina into a web of local secrets. The Power of One (2009) tackles industrial espionage when two men are found shot on a yacht, with Rina’s intuition outsmarting even government agents. Murder at the Country House (2011) takes Rina to a snowbound manor for a séance reenactment that turns deadly.
Set in Frantham’s windswept cliffs and quaint streets, the series blends cozy charm with gritty realism. Themes of loyalty, justice, and resilience shine through, as Rina’s makeshift family—magician Tim, young Joy, and others—tackles cases. Adams’ style balances psychological depth with fast-paced plots, earning comparisons to Murder She Wrote. The seaside setting amplifies the tension, where stormy weather often mirrors the chaos of murder.
Rina’s no-nonsense attitude and theatrical flair make her a standout sleuth. Whether sniffing out clues or protecting her loved ones, she embodies the idea that age is no barrier to courage. The series’ mix of quirky characters and intricate mysteries keeps readers hooked, with each book offering fresh stakes.
Why Rina Martin Resonates
The Rina Martin series has carved a niche in the cozy mystery genre, praised for its strong characters and atmospheric storytelling. Fans on Goodreads and Amazon laud its “page-turning” plots and likable cast, with reviews calling Rina “a new and better Miss Marple.” Publishers Weekly and Kirkus Reviews highlight its psychological depth and engaging settings, appealing to readers who crave both comfort and suspense.
Though not a cultural juggernaut, the series’ loyal following appreciates its character-driven narratives and Frantham’s vivid backdrop. Adams’ ability to blend cozy tropes with darker themes ensures Rina’s adventures feel timeless yet modern, making the series a hidden gem for mystery lovers seeking something fresh.
- Publication Years: 2007–2015
- Number of Books: 7
- Genre: Cozy Mystery
- Setting: Frantham, England
Grab A Reason to Kill and dive into Rina Martin’s captivating world of cozy mysteries! Whether you’re a fan of intricate plots or charming sleuths, Rina’s Frantham adventures promise thrills, chills, and a cup of tea on the side.