If you’re a fan of gripping crime thrillers and police procedurals, Matt Brolly is an author you need on your radar. This Amazon number one bestselling author has crafted a collection of heart-pounding novels, featuring unforgettable detectives and chilling mysteries. From the atmospheric shores of Weston-super-Mare to futuristic dystopias, Brolly’s books keep readers on the edge of their seats. In this guide, we’ll break down Matt Brolly’s books in order, covering his popular series and standalone novels, so you can dive into his world of suspense without missing a beat.
Who is Matt Brolly?
Matt Brolly is a British crime fiction author known for his intricate plots and compelling characters. After earning a law degree and a Master’s in Creative Writing from Glasgow University, Brolly turned his passion for criminal law into a thriving writing career. His novels, including the DI Louise Blackwell and DCI Michael Lambert series, have sold over one million copies across 16 countries. Based in London with his wife and children, Brolly also writes children’s books under the pseudonym M.J. Brolly. Ready to explore his thrilling world? Let’s get started with his books in order
List of Matt Brolly Books in Order of Release Date
Below is a complete list of Matt Brolly’s books in order of their release date, organized in a table format. This includes all his crime fiction series, standalone novels, and children’s books published under the pseudonym M.J. Brolly, based on verified publication information.
| Release Date | Title | Series/Standalone | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| September 2015 | Dead Eyed | DCI Michael Lambert #1 | First in the Lambert series |
| May 2016 | Dead Lucky | DCI Michael Lambert #2 | |
| April 2017 | Zero | Detective Kate Swanson Mystery #1 | Standalone series |
| December 2017 | Dead Embers | DCI Michael Lambert #3 | |
| May 2018 | Dead Time | DCI Michael Lambert #4 | |
| December 2018 | The Sleeping Bug | Standalone (as M.J. Brolly) | Children’s book |
| August 2019 | Dead Water | DCI Michael Lambert #0.5 | Prequel novella |
| August 2019 | The Controller | Lynch and Rose #1 | |
| February 2020 | The Crossing | Detective Inspector Louise Blackwell #1 | |
| July 2020 | The Descent | Detective Inspector Louise Blackwell #2 | |
| March 2021 | The Gorge | Detective Inspector Louise Blackwell #3 | |
| November 2021 | The Mark | Detective Inspector Louise Blackwell #4 | |
| January 2022 | The Pier | Detective Inspector Louise Blackwell #5 | |
| April 2023 | The Running Girls | Standalone | |
| June 2023 | The Bridge | DS Liam Kilshaw #1 | |
| July 2023 | The Railroad | Lynch and Rose #2 | |
| September 2024 | The Solstice | Detective Inspector Louise Blackwell #6 | |
| April 2025 | Dead End | DCI Michael Lambert #5 | Latest in Lambert series |
| April 2025 | The Alliance | Standalone | |
| October 2025 | The Lines | Detective Inspector Louise Blackwell #7 | Upcoming release |
| February 2026 | The Replacement | DS Liam Kilshaw #2 | Upcoming release |
Notes:
- Release dates are based on first publication, typically in the UK.
- Upcoming books (The Lines and The Replacement) are scheduled for release as noted.
- The Sleeping Bug is a children’s book published under the pseudonym M.J. Brolly.
- All other titles are crime fiction or thrillers written under Matt Brolly’s name.
Matt Brolly’s Book Series in Order
Matt Brolly has written several series, each featuring distinct detectives and settings. Below, we’ve organized his books by series in both publication and chronological order, so you can choose how to read them.
Detective Inspector Louise Blackwell Series
Set in the hauntingly beautiful seaside town of Weston-super-Mare, this series follows DI Louise Blackwell series, a determined yet lonely detective navigating complex cases and personal challenges. Perfect for fans of atmospheric police procedurals, this series is a must-read.
- The Crossing (2020)
When a woman’s body is found under the pier in Weston-super-Mare, DI Louise Blackwell faces her first major case after a career setback. The investigation spirals into a series of bizarre murders, with a killer driven by a twisted motive. A gripping start to the series!
Why read it? A strong female protagonist and a vivid seaside setting make this a compelling opener. - The Descent (2020)
Louise tackles another chilling case as bodies pile up, and her past threatens to derail her progress. The stakes are higher, and the tension is palpable.
Why read it? Deepens Louise’s character and introduces more twists. - The Gorge (2021)
Set against the stunning backdrop of Cheddar Gorge, Louise investigates a case involving a social outcast and shady property developers. The atmospheric setting is practically a character itself.
Why read it? A perfect blend of scenic beauty and dark suspense. - The Mark (2021)
Louise’s investigation takes a personal turn as she faces her nemesis, DCI Tim Finch, while unraveling a deadly conspiracy.
Why read it? High-stakes drama with emotional depth. - The Pier (2022)
Another murder rocks Weston-super-Mare, pulling Louise into a web of corruption and danger.
Why read it? Fast-paced and packed with twists. - The Solstice (2024)
As the summer solstice approaches, Louise races against time to stop a killer with a penchant for ritualistic murders.
Why read it? A dark, thrilling addition to the series. - The Lines (Coming October 2025)
The latest in the series promises more suspense as Louise faces new challenges. Pre-order now to stay ahead!
Why read it? Perfect for fans eager for Louise’s next adventure.
DCI Michael Lambert Series
This series follows DCI Michael Lambert, a detective with a troubled past, as he tackles gruesome crimes and personal demons. It’s gritty, intense, and ideal for readers who love complex protagonists.
- Dead Water (2019, Prequel)
A novella introducing Lambert’s world, where he investigates a suspicious house fire with devastating consequences.
Why read it? A great entry point to Lambert’s character. - Dead Eyed (2015)
Lambert is drawn back into a case resembling a gruesome murder from his college days, complete with Latin inscriptions and gouged eyes. Brolly’s debut novel is a chilling masterpiece.
Why read it? A strong start with a haunting mystery. - Dead Lucky (2016)
A twisted killer forces a husband to watch his wife’s murder, and Lambert must stop them before they strike again.
Why read it? Fast-paced and full of surprises. - Dead Embers (2017)
Lambert faces a new case with connections to his past, pushing him to his limits.
Why read it? Deepens the series’ emotional stakes. - Dead Time (2018)
A house fire leaves a child as the sole survivor, and Lambert uncovers a dark conspiracy.
Why read it? A gripping blend of arson and murder. - Dead End (2025)
The latest in the series, released in April 2025, sees Lambert tackling another high-stakes case.
Why read it? A fresh addition for longtime fans.
Lynch and Rose Series
This US-based thriller series dives into a shadowy world of conspiracies and secret organizations.
- The Controller (2021)
Special Agent Samuel Lynch searches for his missing son, teaming up with Sandra Rose to confront The Railroad, a dangerous underground group.
Why read it? A high-octane thriller with international stakes. - The Railroad (2023)
The hunt continues as Lynch and Rose face The Controller’s deadly schemes.
Why read it? Perfect for fans of action-packed suspense.
Detective Kate Swanson Mystery Series
- Zero (2017)
In a dystopian future, a zero-tolerance policy punishes all crimes with death. DI Kate Swanson investigates a judge’s kidnapping, uncovering a brutal system of justice.
Why read it? A unique near-future crime thriller.
DS Liam Kilshaw Series
- The Bridge (2023)
DS Liam Kilshaw investigates a shocking double murder in a quiet town, unraveling secrets that threaten his own life.
Why read it? A fresh detective with a compelling story. - The Replacement (Coming February 2026)
Kilshaw’s next case promises more twists and danger. Pre-order now!
Why read it? A must for fans of Brolly’s newer characters.
Standalone Novels
- The Running Girls (2023)
A standalone thriller about a serial killer targeting young women, with a detective racing to stop them.
Why read it? A gripping one-off for fans of intense crime stories. - The Sleeping Bug (2018, as M.J. Brolly)
A children’s book about a bug’s adventure, perfect for young readers.
Why read it? A charming break from Brolly’s darker works.
Why Read Matt Brolly’s Books?
- Engaging Characters: From the resilient DI Louise Blackwell to the haunted DCI Michael Lambert, Brolly’s protagonists are flawed, relatable, and unforgettable.
- Atmospheric Settings: Whether it’s the moody Weston-super-Mare or the rugged Cheddar Gorge, Brolly’s settings enhance the suspense.
- Twist-Filled Plots: Expect shocking twists and complex mysteries that keep you guessing until the end.
- Diverse Range: From gritty police procedurals to dystopian thrillers and children’s books, there’s something for every reader.
How to Start Reading Matt Brolly
New to Brolly’s work? Start with The Crossing for an introduction to DI Louise Blackwell’s atmospheric world or Dead Eyed for DCI Michael Lambert’s gritty investigations. Both are perfect entry points. If you prefer standalone novels, The Running Girls is a great choice for a one-off thrill. For younger readers, check out The Sleeping Bug under his M.J. Brolly pseudonym.
Where to Find Matt Brolly’s Books
You can purchase Matt Brolly’s books on Amazon, where you’ll find eBooks, paperbacks, and audiobooks. Check out his website, mattbrolly.com, for updates, or follow him on Twitter (@MattBrollyUK) for the latest news.
What’s Next for Matt Brolly?
Fans can look forward to The Lines (October 2025) in the DI Louise Blackwell series and The Replacement (February 2026) in the DS Liam Kilshaw series. Stay tuned for more thrilling releases
Final Thoughts
Matt Brolly’s books are a treasure trove for crime fiction fans, offering a mix of intense mysteries, vivid settings, and unforgettable characters. Whether you’re drawn to the seaside investigations of DI Louise Blackwell or the dark conspiracies of DCI Michael Lambert, this guide to Matt Brolly’s books in order ensures you won’t miss a single twist. Grab your next read and dive into the suspense today!
Have you read any of Matt Brolly’s books? Share your favorite in the comments below, or let us know which series you’re starting with!
