When LAPD police detective Peter Decker strikes up a romance with Rina Lazarus, a Jewish widow, so begins one of the most enjoyable sleuthing couples in mystery fiction. Their relationship is the central focus of Faye Kellerman’s immensely entertaining series.

The Peter Decker and Rina Lazarus books expertly blend police procedural whodunnits with family drama and explore topics such as blended families, religious beliefs (specifically Jewish orthodoxy), and social issues, all of which add complexity and depth to the stories.

Rina, Peter, their family, and the other recurring characters in the books are so engaging and well written that many readers say they feel like the characters are real people and people they want to have as friends.

The books have standalone mysteries, but Peter and Rina’s dynamic relationship develops considerably over the course of the series. With the ongoing character growth and numerous supporting characters, many fans recommend reading the books from the beginning for a richer experience.