Step into the pulse-pounding world of Stevens & Windermere, where Minnesota’s icy streets and shadowy crimes collide with two relentless law enforcement heroes! This gripping crime thriller series by Owen Laukkanen follows Kirk Stevens, a seasoned Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension agent, and Carla Windermere, a fearless FBI rising star, as they tackle high-stakes cases with grit and heart. Perfect for fans of John Sandford and Elmore Leonard, this series hooks you with its fast-paced plots and complex characters.
From bank heists to human trafficking rings, Stevens and Windermere navigate a world where justice isn’t always black-and-white. Their chemistry—marked by mutual respect and subtle tension—lights up each page, making their adventures a must-read for thriller enthusiasts craving action and depth.
How Stevens & Windermere Began
Owen Laukkanen, a Vancouver-based author with a background as a commercial fisherman and poker journalist, launched the Stevens & Windermere series in 2012 with The Professionals. Inspired by the gritty realism of crime fiction giants, Laukkanen crafted a duo that blends experience with ambition, set against Minnesota’s stark, urban backdrop. His knack for weaving real-world issues like economic desperation and organized crime into thrilling narratives gave the series instant appeal, earning praise as a “dazzling debut” from outlets like Mystery Scene.
The Heart of Stevens & Windermere
The series kicks off with The Professionals, where Stevens and Windermere chase a group of college graduates turned kidnappers after a botched job sparks a deadly pursuit. In Criminal Enterprise, the duo hunts Carter Tomlin, a desperate accountant turned bank robber whose taste for violence escalates. Kill Fee dives into a chilling murder-for-hire scheme, with the pair racing to stop a killer linked to a dark web operation. The Stolen Ones tackles a gut-wrenching sex trafficking ring, showcasing their determination to save victims across state lines.
Laukkanen’s Minnesota setting is more than a backdrop—it’s a character. From the Twin Cities’ gritty streets to Cass County’s rain-soaked diners, the state’s harsh beauty amplifies the stakes. Themes of morality, desperation, and the cost of justice run deep, with Stevens’ veteran wisdom balancing Windermere’s bold instincts. The series’ action-movie pacing, layered with emotional depth, keeps readers hooked, while the duo’s evolving partnership adds a spark of intrigue.
Why Stevens & Windermere Resonates
The Stevens & Windermere series stands out in crime fiction for its blend of heart-pounding action and human complexity. Fans rave about Laukkanen’s ability to craft villains you almost root for—like Carter Tomlin, a man undone by circumstance—while cheering for Stevens and Windermere’s relentless pursuit of justice. The series’ focus on real-world issues, like economic collapse and human trafficking, resonates with readers who crave stories that reflect society’s darker edges. Laukkanen’s awards nominations, including Anthony and Barry nods, cement his status as a rising star in the genre.
Though not as widely known as some blockbuster series, Stevens & Windermere’s niche appeal lies in its authentic characters and Minnesota-rooted storytelling. It’s a hidden gem for readers seeking thrilling, character-driven crime novels that don’t shy away from tough questions.
- First Book: The Professionals (2012)
- Total Books: Six (as of 2025)
- Setting: Twin Cities and greater Minnesota
- Awards: Nominated for Anthony, Barry, and Thriller Awards
Grab The Professionals and dive into Stevens & Windermere’s thrilling world of crime, courage, and Minnesota grit!