Step into the pulse-pounding world of Robert Finlay, where a London cop’s quiet life explodes into a whirlwind of danger and secrets! Matt Johnson’s Robert Finlay series is a gritty, authentic thriller saga that follows a former SAS soldier turned police officer as his past unleashes chaos. With its raw realism and relatable hero, this series hooks readers who crave high-stakes action with a human heart.
Unlike typical thriller protagonists, Robert Finlay isn’t a fearless superhuman. He’s an aging everyman—think your neighbor with a hidden edge—grappling with family life, PTSD, and a deadly conspiracy. Johnson, a former soldier and cop himself, infuses the series with lived-in authenticity, making every twist feel like it could happen tomorrow.
How Robert Finlay Began
The Robert Finlay series was born from Matt Johnson’s own battle with post-traumatic stress disorder after a 25-year career in the military and Metropolitan Police. Diagnosed with PTSD in 1999, Johnson turned to writing as therapy, weaving his experiences into fiction. His debut novel, Wicked Game, published in 2016 by Orenda Books, introduced Finlay and became a bestseller, earning praise for its vivid realism and taut pacing. Johnson’s insider perspective on policing and military life gave the series a unique edge, setting it apart in the crowded thriller genre.
The Heart of Robert Finlay
The series kicks off with Wicked Game (2016), where Robert Finlay, a Royalty Protection officer, dreams of a quieter life. But when two former SAS colleagues are murdered, his past erupts, pulling him into a deadly game of cat and mouse. Deadly Game (2017) sees Finlay, still reeling from PTSD, tackling the dark world of sex trafficking while protecting his family from shadowy threats. End Game (2018), the trilogy’s finale, thrusts Finlay into a conspiracy involving a missing manuscript and MI5, racing to save his friend and uncover a plot threatening UK security. A fourth novel, Crow 27 (2022), explores Finlay’s investigation into military corruption.
Set in early 2000s London, the series blends gritty police procedurals with military intrigue. Themes of trauma, loyalty, and resilience resonate throughout, grounded by Finlay’s struggle to balance duty and family. Johnson’s prose is sharp and immersive, with flashbacks to Finlay’s SAS days adding depth. The London setting—think rain-slicked streets and bustling precincts—feels alive, while the series’ focus on real-world issues like terrorism and organized crime keeps the stakes high.
Why Robert Finlay Resonates
The Robert Finlay series stands out for its authenticity and emotional depth, earning accolades from thriller giants like Peter James and Sir Ranulph Fiennes. Fans praise its relatable hero and unflinching look at PTSD, a rare focus in the genre. Wicked Game was longlisted for the CWA John Creasey Dagger and topped Amazon UK’s rising star charts in 2016, cementing Johnson’s reputation. For readers, Finlay’s journey offers a thrilling yet grounded escape, blending action with the human cost of heroism.
The series’ niche appeal lies in its insider perspective, drawing readers who love nuanced characters and real-world stakes. Its influence lingers in the thriller genre, inspiring authors to explore the personal toll of high-octane lives. Even years after its debut, Finlay’s story feels fresh, inviting new fans to discover its gripping world.
- Publication Years: 2016–2022
- Number of Books: 4
- Notable Award: Wicked Game longlisted for CWA John Creasey Dagger
Ready for a thriller that hits like a London storm? Grab Wicked Game and dive into Robert Finlay’s electrifying world!