Detective Matthews series
Uncover the dark underbelly of 1890s Whitby in the gripping Detective Matthews series. This atmospheric historical crime collection delves into the mysteries, murders, and secrets lurking in the fog-filled streets of the famous Yorkshire town. A compelling prequel to Whitby’s Darkest Secret, these books follow Detective Matthews as he battles crime, corruption, and his own turmoils.
Perfect for fans of Victorian detective fiction, historical mysteries, and suspenseful crime thrillers, the Detective Matthews series blends rich period detail with edge-of-your-seat storytelling. Start your journey into Whitby’s shadowy past today!
The Planting of the
Penny Hedge
Whitby 1891
When an unknown man is discovered dead on Whitby beach, it is assumed that he has drowned. However, when the police arrive at the scene it soon becomes clear that there is more to this case than a simple drowning victim. The chief calls in newly appointed Detective Benjamin Matthews to look into the case.
Matthews, originally from Whitby, has been living these past two years in York as a PC, and is less than happy with his transfer back to the harbour town.
With a relocation, a family conflict and now a new case to solve Matthews is well and truly thrown in at the deep end; and the more he delves into the young mans complex life, the darker things get.
The Regatta Murders
Whitby 1892
In the aftermath of a young man’s sudden death, his grieving mother believes him to have been poisoned, and requests Detective Benjamin Matthews be the one to investigate. Yet, at first glance, the lack of evidence or motive appears as though this will be an open and shut case.
However, when more young men die in similar circumstances, Matthews quickly realises there’s more to this case than meets the eye.
With no clear suspect, and everybody connected blaming a different person, plus his assistant, Harvey, acting strange; and a wife who is sick. Matthews has a lot on his plate.
Illusions of Murder
Whitby 1892
It's opening night for illusionist Victor Crown, and the residents of Whitby have packed out the theatre in anticipation of the renowned performer.
However, when a young woman connected to the show winds up dead, talk starts to circulate that Victor could be to blame.
It falls to Detective Benjamin Matthews to investigate, and determine whether the illusionist is as innocent as he claims.
Can Matthews crack the case, or will he be outsmarted by a master of illusion?
The Green Carnation Society
Whitby 1893
When Griffin Ashcroft is found murdered under shocking and mysterious circumstances, Detective Benjamin Matthews is tasked with uncovering the truth. With the help of his loyal assistant, Harvey, and the ambitious newcomer, Clara, Matthews begins to peel back the layers of Griffin’s life, only to discover a world of secrets, hidden alliances, and lives lived in the shadows.
As the investigation deepens, Matthews finds himself navigating a labyrinth of lies and betrayal, where every revelation brings more questions than answers. In a case fraught with personal stakes and societal prejudice, Matthews must tread carefully to protect those who have much to lose and to ensure justice is served.
But as the web of secrets tightens, one question looms above all: how far will someone go to keep their truth buried?