The Tony Hill and Carol Jordan series is often considered Val McDermid’s most popular work, despite not being originally intended as a series. This psychological crime thriller series follows the brilliant but troubled criminal profiler Tony Hill and the younger, more level-headed Detective Inspector Carol Jordan.

The books are unsettling crime tales featuring serial killers and characters dealing with deep-seated issues and traumas. Readers enjoy the series for its unexpected, scary twists and turns that Val McDermid weaves into the suspenseful, character-driven stories.

As the series progresses, the professional and personal relationship between Tony and Carol becomes increasingly complicated and intertwined, often putting them through the “emotional wringer” in surprising ways. Given the ongoing character relationships and recurring plotlines, fans recommend reading the books in order to fully experience the stories and avoid spoilers.