Jill Kennedy and DCI Max Trentham Mystery by Shirley Wells
The Jill Kennedy and DCI Max Trentham Mystery series by Shirley Wells is a gripping collection of British crime novels. Set in the picturesque yet eerie Lancashire countryside, the series follows forensic psychologist Jill Kennedy and her former lover, DCI Max Trentham, as they solve complex murder cases. With a mix of psychological depth, intricate plots, and a touch of romance, this series is perfect for fans of character-driven mysteries.
Publication Order of Jill Kennedy and DCI Max Trentham Mystery Books
- Into the Shadows (2007)
- A Darker Side (2008)
- Where Petals Fall (2009)
- The Broken Circle (2010)
- Shades of Evil (2012)
- The Final Echoes (2017)
Into the Shadows (2007)
Jill Kennedy’s life takes a dark turn when she is drawn back into the world of crime-solving after a brutal murder in her village. As Jill works alongside DCI Max Trentham, her former lover, the case becomes personal when she starts receiving taunting messages from a serial killer she once helped convict. This book sets the stage for the series, blending suspense, psychological intrigue, and a touch of unresolved romance.
A Darker Side (2008)
When a mother and her son are murdered and two boys go missing, Jill and Max are called to investigate. The case takes them deep into the secrets of a seemingly idyllic community. As they unravel the mystery, Jill must confront her own past while Max struggles to protect her. This installment is a chilling exploration of family dynamics and hidden truths.
Where Petals Fall (2009)
The discovery of a body with a slashed throat wrapped in a white sheet sends shockwaves through the village. The murder bears an eerie resemblance to the crimes of a serial killer Jill and Max caught years ago. Is it a copycat, or did they get the wrong man? This book is a masterful blend of suspense and psychological drama.
The Broken Circle (2010)
The murder of a wealthy landowner in the woods leads Jill and Max into a web of lies and deceit. As they dig deeper, they uncover connections to a previous unsolved case. This book is a compelling police procedural with plenty of twists and turns to keep readers guessing.
Shades of Evil (2012)
A quiet Lancashire village is rocked by the murder of a local woman. Jill and Max must navigate a maze of secrets and lies to uncover the truth. This installment delves into the darker side of human nature, making it a thought-provoking and suspenseful read.
The Final Echoes (2017)
Jill Kennedy plans to leave her crime-solving days behind, but when a series of murders shakes the community, she is pulled back into the fray. As Jill and Max race against time to catch the killer, they must also confront their unresolved feelings for each other. This book is a thrilling conclusion to the series, filled with emotional depth and nail-biting suspense.
Why You’ll Love Jill Kennedy and DCI Max Trentham Mystery
This series combines the best elements of British crime fiction: atmospheric settings, complex characters, and intricate plots. Jill Kennedy is a strong, intelligent protagonist whose psychological insights add depth to the investigations. The dynamic between Jill and Max adds a layer of emotional complexity, making the series as much about relationships as it is about solving crimes. If you enjoy mysteries with a psychological edge and a touch of romance, this series is a must-read.
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