DI Matthew Stannard Series

The Detective Inspector Matthew Stannard series features historical crime novels set in England in the decade leading up to World War II. Each book can be read on its own, but together they chart the long-lasting social and moral consequences of the First World War on British policing and society as well as Matthew's personal struggles and victories.

These stories are ideal for readers who enjoy:

British crime fiction set in the early twentieth century
Police procedurals rather than amateur detectives (professional detectives)
Gritty, non-cosy mysteries
Stories focused on working- and middle-class lives

DI Matthew Stannard

The Empire Club Murders (2023)

Matthew's first Craynebrook case.

A unnamed dead body, a series of killings and a hard-earned reputation on the line.

DI Matthew Stannard

Echoes of a Murder (2023)

The second investigation for Matthew.

Women being stalked, a cold case murder and a new companion for Matthew.

DI Matthew Stannard

Death of a Blackbird (2024)

Matthew's third investigation.

A dead farmer, a crook out for a deadly revenge and Matthew's personal integrity in question.

DI Matthew Stannard

Sixpence for a Slaughter (2025)

Matthew's fourth investigation.

An unprecedented crime, a mystery surrounding victims, a baying mob on the prowl for revenge.

Book cover of 'A Killing for Christmas' by C.K. Harewood with a man and woman at a door.

DI MATTHEW STANNARD

A Killing for Christmas (2025)

Matthew's fifth investigation.

A double murder, a rival detective, and Matthew running on empty. Sparks will fly!