If You Like Spenser…
Robert B. Parker’s Spenser novels (started in 1973 with The Godwulf Manuscript) center around the Boston-based private investigator. With excellent writing and a stable of recurring characters and sidekicks, including his therapist love interest and tough guy Hawk, the Spenser books offer a lot for readers. Spenser has esoteric knowledge of literature and poetry and skills for fighting the baddies. And remember the ’80s TV series “Spenser: For Hire” starring Robert Urich? Yep, same Spenser. My spouse loves this series and has been asking me what else will bring him this balance of suspense and humor. I have found a few that meet with his approval.
Elvis Cole and Joe Pike series by Robert Crais (started 1987)
Elvis Cole is a private detective in Los Angeles who likes to quote Disney character Jiminy Cricket. With his partner and muscle Joe Pike, they scour the underbelly of L.A. to find answers for their clients. Spenser fans will appreciate Cole’s wry humor, and those who enjoy seeing behind the curtain of Hollywood will love these California-set mysteries.
Myron Bolitar series by Harlan Coben (started 1995)
Myron Bolitar is a former basketball player turned sports agent. The agent angle means that the books often focus on sports stars of different varieties. Recurring characters include Win, a dangerous and rich friend, and Esperanza, assistant turned partner. When his clients need help beyond the usual, he becomes an “accidental detective.” For YA readers, there is a series of young Myron books as well!
Joe Pickett series by C.J. Box (started 2001)
Joe Pickett is a game warden in Wyoming with the kind of principles that make him unpopular with the local hunters. When a hunting outfitter dies in his backyard in the first book, he begins to dig for answers. Facing environmental and corporate forces, Joe must find the truth and protect himself and his family.
Peter Key series by Jack Friday (started 2026)
Peter Key does not have his life together. He’s couch surfing and semi-estranged from his family when he gets word that his uncle (whom he barely met) has died and left everything to him. When Peter goes to Austin to claim his inheritance, he discovers a ramshackle house packed full of stuff, a large debt, and hundreds of thousands of dollars missing. With this help of a P.I. mentor, Peter gets to the bottom of his uncle’s life and death.