Picture a lawyer-turned-storyteller who traded courtrooms for the lava fields of Hawaii’s Big Island—meet Robert B. McCaw! This bestselling author crafts gripping Hawaiian mystery novels that weave legal intrigue with the vibrant culture, history, and landscapes of the islands. His Koa Kane series has captivated readers, blending pulse-pounding police procedurals with a respectful nod to Hawaii’s complex heritage.
McCaw’s journey from military brat to celebrated author is as fascinating as his novels. With a knack for solving puzzles—whether in law or fiction—he’s carved a unique niche in the mystery genre, bringing Hawaii to life as a character in its own right.
The Making of Robert McCaw
Born into a military family, Robert McCaw grew up globe-trotting, attending twelve schools before high school graduation. This nomadic childhood shaped his curiosity and adaptability. After earning a mathematics degree from Georgetown University, he served as a U.S. Army lieutenant, where a surprise role as a court-martial prosecutor sparked his love for law. He went on to graduate from the University of Virginia Law School and clerked for Supreme Court Justice Hugo L. Black. As a partner in a major law firm in Washington, D.C., and New York City, McCaw tackled high-profile criminal and civil cases, honing the analytical skills that now fuel his intricate mysteries.
A pivotal trip to Hawaii in 1986 changed everything. Smitten by the Big Island’s volcanic landscapes and rich cultural tapestry, McCaw began a 20-year love affair with the islands, eventually building a second home there. His passion for Hawaii’s history and people inspired him to write, though his demanding legal career meant his first novel took two decades to complete.
Robert McCaw’s Unforgettable Stories
McCaw’s Koa Kane Hawaiian Mystery series is a masterclass in blending gritty crime fiction with cultural authenticity. The series follows Hilo Chief Detective Koa Kane, a native Hawaiian with a dark past that drives his relentless pursuit of justice. McCaw’s legal expertise shines through in the novels’ complex legal puzzles, while his deep respect for Hawaii infuses each story with folklore, history, and contemporary issues like sovereignty.
The series kicked off with Death of a Messenger (2015), where Koa investigates a ritualistic murder tied to ancient Hawaiian artifacts and modern corruption. Off the Grid (2019) ramps up the stakes with a lava-flow murder and international intrigue involving the CIA and Chinese government. Fire and Vengeance (2020) explores a deadly conspiracy behind a volcanic explosion, while Treachery Times Two (2022) sees Koa grappling with his own past alongside a military espionage case. The fifth installment, Retribution (2023), delves into themes of justice and vengeance, cementing Koa as a flawed yet compelling hero.
McCaw’s style is meticulous yet accessible, with vivid descriptions of Hawaii’s landscapes—from Mauna Kea’s observatories to black sand beaches—that make the islands a living, breathing character. His respect for Hawaiian culture, evident in his use of the native language and mythology, sets his work apart in the crowded mystery genre.
Why Robert McCaw Matters
Robert McCaw’s novels do more than entertain—they offer a window into the real Hawaii, far beyond tourist brochures. By tackling issues like corruption, cultural preservation, and the legacy of colonialism, he educates readers while keeping them on the edge of their seats. His authentic portrayal of Hawaiian life has earned praise from readers and critics alike, with comparisons to Michael Connelly and James Lee Burke.
McCaw’s transition from law to literature also inspires aspiring writers, proving it’s never too late to chase a creative dream. His ability to reinvent himself—soldier, lawyer, novelist—reflects the resilience and curiosity that define his protagonist, Koa Kane.
- Born: Date unavailable, raised in a military family
- Key Works: Death of a Messenger, Off the Grid, Fire and Vengeance, Treachery Times Two, Retribution
- Notable: Foreword INDIES 2021 Bronze Winner for Mystery (Death of a Messenger)
Ready for a thrilling escape to the Big Island? Snag Death of a Messenger and dive into Robert McCaw’s world of Hawaiian mysteries!