Bodies in the Sand: The Jan Larkin Mysteries

Nothing spoils a romantic evening walk on the beach like an unexpected shootout. But for seasoned Homicide Detective Jan Larkin, it's all part of the job. This tough, tenacious, and troubled cop takes the lead in Stephen Burdick's latest volume The Jan Larkin Mysteries (Down & Out Books, 2024). Her multifaceted and compelling development is a tribute to the skill of her author, who passed away this August.

Good Things Come in Threes

Like many of Burdick's earlier books, The Jan Larkin Mysteries is split into three novellas, each revolving around a new episode in Larkin's career. "Echoes of Janie" introduces the world-weary heroine as she tracks the culprit behind the murder of a much-loved young woman – with disastrous consequences. "The Original Thirteen Murders" follows the path of a serial killer on a twisted trail of revenge against snowbirds. "Shadow of Deceit" provides a glimpse into Jan's softer side as she grows into two new relationships: one with her new junior partner (she's solid gold) and another with a romantic interest (swipe left, Jan).

Through each tale, Burdick's pace is swift and his delivery sharp. The law officers in these stories are as overcooked and gritty as the coffee they constantly swill. But between the grind of police procedure and the gallows humor they swap, Burdick's characters struggle with real human dilemmas. Jan longs for respite from the onslaught of tragedies her job entails. Her first partner, Seeward Sinclair, bends the rules in a quest for long-delayed justice. And her second partner, Jenny Lester, strives to prove herself in a new department. The result is believable, memorable characters that stay with you long after the plot has turned its last twist.

Watch Out for Jerry

And then there's Jerry. He's demented, he's dangerous, and he's lurking on a beach near you. The quiet pool cleaner steals the show in the volume's second tale with his quest to avenge his own leg – permanently damaged in car accident with an out-of-state visitor – and his genius for unexpected murder methods. If it sounds a bit zany, it is. A little time in Jerry's headspace goes a long way.

But never fear, for there's also Crabby! This old salt is a recurring character through the three novellas, providing homespun sayings and emotional wisdom when Jan needs it most. Despite his somewhat cartoonish dialog – "aye, Cap'um," etc. – he's an unexpected and delightful ingredient in this gritty thriller's recipe.

Read about Stephen Burdick and his impact.

Thank You, Mr. Burdick

I'll confess that hard-boiled detective novels aren't my go-to books. Too many sharp edges and quick turns for this ruminating reader. But Burdick renders familiar settings from Pass-a-Grille to Floral City in fascinating sketches that draw me in. Then he crafts complex characters that me in. We're really lucky to have had him to chronicle, in his fashion, the places and people of Pinellas County. And luckier still that we can continue to access his unique vision through The Jan Larkin MysteriesThe Gray Detective series, and Yesterday Rising.

We'll miss you, Mr. Burdick.