Inspector Mercer books in order

Q: "How many books are in the Inspector Mercer series?"

"There are two books in the Inspector Mercer series, published between 1978 and 1980."

Q: "What is the first book in the Inspector Mercer series?"

"The first book in the Inspector Mercer series is The Body Of A Girl, published in 1978."

Q: "Are the Inspector Mercer books connected to Gilbert's other detective series?"

"The Inspector Mercer books are standalone from Gilbert's other series like Inspector Hazelrigg and Patrick Petrella. While all three feature police detective protagonists, Mercer operates independently and the cases do not overlap with Gilbert's other recurring characters."

Reading order

#	Title	Published	Author	Buy on Amazon
1	The Body Of A Girl	1978	Michael Gilbert	Buy
2	Death of a Favourite Girl / The Killing of Katie Steelstock	1980	Michael Gilbert	Buy

Inspector Mercer appears in two novels that showcase Michael Gilbert’s skill at police procedural fiction. The Body Of A Girl (1978) and Death of a Favourite Girl (1980) each center on the murder of a young woman, and Mercer must sort through the social connections surrounding each victim to find the killer. The books reflect the quieter, more methodical side of British crime writing.

Though only two books long, the Mercer series demonstrates Gilbert’s ability to build tension through careful investigation rather than action set pieces. Both novels use their English settings to full effect, creating closed communities where everyone has secrets and the detective must earn trust before the truth comes out.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many books are in the Inspector Mercer series?

There are two books in the Inspector Mercer series, published between 1978 and 1980.

What is the first book in the Inspector Mercer series?

The first book in the Inspector Mercer series is The Body Of A Girl, published in 1978.

Are the Inspector Mercer books connected to Gilbert's other detective series?

The Inspector Mercer books are standalone from Gilbert’s other series like Inspector Hazelrigg and Patrick Petrella. While all three feature police detective protagonists, Mercer operates independently and the cases do not overlap with Gilbert’s other recurring characters.

Reading order#

Frequently Asked Questions

Reading order