Colin Dexter Books in Order

Colin Dexter is an English crime writer celebrated for his Inspector Morse novels. His writing career began in 1972 during a family holiday in North Wales, where he penned the first paragraphs of a detective novel while stuck at a kitchen table. Dexter's debut novel, Last Bus to Woodstock, was published in 1975, introducing the world to the iconic character of Inspector Morse, a reflection of Dexter's own interests in cryptic crosswords, English literature, and classical music. His novels are renowned for their intricate plots, featuring false leads and red herrings. Dexter's television series, Inspector Morse, which ran for 33 episodes from 1987 to 2001, brought him international acclaim. He made cameo appearances in nearly every episode, echoing the style of Alfred Hitchcock. The character of Sgt Lewis, later Inspector Lewis, was also adapted from Dexter's series, appearing in 12 episodes of the ITV series. Dexter's influence can also be seen in his suggestion of A. E. Housman as a "great life" on BBC Radio 4. As a classicist and crime writer, Dexter has successfully bridged two genres, captivating audiences worldwide.