Dive into the pulse-pounding world of Severance, where London’s gritty streets meet international intrigue! Penned by British author Mark McKay, the Severance series is a gripping crime fiction saga that follows DCI Nick Severance as he untangles complex mysteries with sharp wit and relentless determination. Spanning four thrilling books released between 2015 and 2017, this series blends suspense, exotic locales, and meticulous police work, earning a loyal following among thriller fans.
With its fast-paced plots and richly drawn characters, Severance invites readers into a world where every clue could lead to danger—or redemption. Ready to join Nick on his high-stakes adventures? Let’s explore what makes this series a hidden gem in contemporary crime fiction!
How Severance Began
Mark McKay, a former IT professional with a knack for storytelling, traded tech for thrillers after studying creative writing at the University of East Anglia. Inspired by his love for suspense and global cultures, McKay crafted the Severance series to showcase a detective who’s as human as he is heroic. His debut novel, A Terminal Agenda (2015), introduced Nick Severance, a London DCI whose life spirals into chaos during a murder investigation. McKay’s diverse background—from wine salesman to Santa Claus—infuses his writing with a unique flair, blending realism with high-octane drama.
The Heart of Severance
The Severance series kicks off with A Terminal Agenda, where Nick investigates a brutal murder near a London police station, uncovering a plot tied to an ancient Indian tomb and a deadly conspiracy. In A Trade to Die For (2016), Nick, now freelancing for a Japanese intelligence agency, navigates a web of lies to protect a retired MI6 agent. The Revenge Season (2016) takes him to Peru, where a pharmaceutical researcher’s murder reveals dangerous secrets. Finally, The Imperfect Assassin (2017) explores a genetically enhanced killer’s mission, with Nick caught in the crosshairs.
The series shines through its themes of loyalty, betrayal, and the cost of justice. McKay’s settings—spanning London, Japan, India, and Peru—add a vibrant backdrop, while his focus on martial arts and cultural nuances enriches the narrative. Nick’s evolution from a by-the-book detective to a morally complex investigator keeps readers hooked, with plots that balance action and introspection.
Why Severance Resonates
Severance stands out in crime fiction for its blend of procedural grit and global adventure. Fans praise McKay’s ability to weave complex mysteries with relatable characters, making Nick Severance a compelling everyman in a world of spies and assassins. The series’ niche appeal lies in its detailed settings and unpredictable twists, earning it a dedicated following on platforms like Goodreads and Amazon. While not a household name, Severance’s cult status among thriller enthusiasts proves its lasting allure.
- Publication Years: 2015–2017
- Number of Books: 4
- Key Settings: London, Japan, India, Peru
- Genre: Crime Fiction, Thriller
Grab A Terminal Agenda and step into Severance’s thrilling world of mystery and mayhem!