Step into the shadowy, suspense-filled world of the Zachary Goldman Mysteries, where a deeply flawed private investigator unravels cases that hit close to home. Written by USA Today Bestselling author P.D. Workman, this gripping series blends heart-pounding mysteries with raw emotional depth, following Zachary Goldman as he navigates complex cases and his own turbulent past. If you love gritty detective stories with relatable heroes, this series will keep you turning pages late into the night!
Zachary’s appeal lies in his imperfections. Shattered by personal tragedies, he’s not your typical polished PI. Instead, his struggles with mental health and a chaotic personal life make him uniquely suited to connect with clients who’ve faced their own hardships. Each book delivers a fresh mystery wrapped in themes of resilience, justice, and redemption.
How Zachary Goldman Mysteries Began
P.D. Workman, an Alberta-based author with a passion for tackling real-world issues, launched the Zachary Goldman Mysteries in 2017. Known for her young adult and cozy mystery novels, Workman drew inspiration from her fascination with underdog characters and complex social issues like mental illness and addiction. Zachary Goldman emerged as a character who embodied these themes—a PI whose brokenness mirrors the cases he takes on. Workman’s goal was to craft a series that felt authentic, blending thrilling plots with sensitive explorations of human struggles.
The Heart of Zachary Goldman Mysteries
The series kicks off with She Wore Mourning, where Zachary investigates the suspicious drowning of a five-year-old boy. Despite police ruling it an accident, Zachary’s instincts lead him down a dangerous path, uncovering dark secrets. In His Hands Were Quiet, he digs into the death of an autistic boy at a treatment facility, exposing questionable therapies and institutional abuse. She Was Dying Anyway sees Zachary team up with his ex-wife Bridget to probe a friend’s mysterious death, blending personal and professional stakes. They Came for Him, the 13th installment, tackles a murder case tied to Zachary’s family, pushing his investigative skills to the limit.
Workman’s mysteries are set in a contemporary urban landscape, often weaving in gritty real-world issues like abuse, disability, and marginalized communities. Her style avoids graphic violence or foul language, making the series accessible yet unflinching. Themes of empathy, perseverance, and uncovering hidden truths run through each book, with Zachary’s personal growth paralleling his casework. Fans praise Workman’s ability to craft intricate plots and multidimensional characters, creating stories that linger long after the final page.
Why Zachary Goldman Mysteries Resonates
The Zachary Goldman Mysteries stand out in the crowded mystery genre for their focus on a flawed, relatable protagonist. Readers connect with Zachary’s struggles, rooting for him as he battles personal demons while seeking justice. Workman’s sensitive handling of social issues—especially mental health and disability—has earned her accolades, including awards from Library Services for Youth in Custody. The series’ growing fanbase appreciates its balance of suspense and heart, with reviews calling it “addictive” and “emotionally gripping.” Its companion series, Kenzie Kirsch Medical Thrillers, further expands its universe, intertwining timelines for added depth.
As the series continues to grow, it’s carving a niche for readers who crave mysteries with substance. Whether it’s shedding light on overlooked societal issues or showcasing the power of resilience, Zachary Goldman Mysteries offers a refreshing take on the PI genre that’s both thrilling and thought-provoking.
- First Book Published: 2017 (She Wore Mourning)
- Number of Books: 18 (as of 2025)
- Awards: InD’tale Magazine’s Crowned Heart, Library Services for Youth in Custody
- Companion Series: Kenzie Kirsch Medical Thrillers
Ready to dive into a mystery that’s as heartfelt as it is thrilling? Grab She Wore Mourning and join Zachary Goldman’s unforgettable journey through a world of secrets and redemption!