Jenny Cooper Books In Order

Publication Order of Jenny Cooper Books

The Jenny Cooper series is a collection of mystery and thriller novels written by renowned British novelist and screenwriter M.R. Hall. The series consists of six novels and one novella, published between 2009 and 2014. It follows the central character Jenny Cooper, a coroner living in the Severn Vale, Gloucestershire.

The first novel in the series, titled The Coroner, was published in 2009 by Macmillan Books. The story introduces Jenny Cooper as the newly appointed coroner for the Severn Vale. The plot begins with the discovery of a vulnerable young boy’s body at a youth offender center, where he is believed to have hanged himself. Shortly after, a young girl dies of a heroin overdose. These tragic deaths are followed by the sudden passing of Coroner Harry Marshall, who had been investigating the cases. Though his death is ruled as natural, Jenny suspects otherwise.

Jenny is appointed to replace Harry Marshall and tasked with uncovering the truth behind the teenagers’ deaths, as well as investigating Harry’s own mysterious demise. Her inquiry into Harry’s final days reveals strange and troubling behavior, leaving her puzzled about how to proceed. Known for her uncompromising dedication to uncovering the truth, even in the face of powerful opposition, Jenny embarks on a perilous journey. As she inherits Harry’s office, she discovers neglected case files containing dark secrets and buried evidence. Jenny begins to suspect a connection between the young boy’s death, the apparent suicide of a teenage prostitute, and Harry’s fate.

Determined to expose the truth, Jenny risks her career, sanity, and life as she confronts powerful forces intent on keeping their secrets hidden. Her crusade for justice turns into a dangerous, solitary battle against corruption.

The second novel in the series, The Disappeared, was published by Simon & Schuster in 2009. The story continues to follow Jenny Cooper as the District Coroner of the Severn Vale. The plot opens with the mysterious disappearance of two British students, Rafi Hassan and Nazim Jamal. Despite extensive efforts, they remain untraceable. The police, who had been surveilling the students, conclude that they fled the country to pursue radical ideals. However, seven years later, Nazim’s grieving mother remains unconvinced and turns to Jenny as her last hope for answers.

By this time, Jenny has begun to settle into her role as coroner and has started to overcome the demons of her troubled past. However, her investigation into the students’ disappearance exposes a web of conspiracy and corruption. As Jenny delves deeper, she faces mounting pressure from senior officials to stay silent. The investigation pushes her to her breaking point, and she is forced to confront painful secrets from her own past.

Despite the obstacles, Jenny perseveres, driven by her relentless pursuit of justice. Her determination allows her to navigate the barriers of corruption and deceit, ultimately succeeding in her quest for the truth.

Both The Coroner and The Disappeared received widespread acclaim, earning praise from readers, critics, and fellow authors. The success of these initial novels inspired M.R. Hall to continue the series, which went on to achieve further critical and commercial success.

One Response to “Jenny Cooper”

1. Frances Baker: 2 years ago

   Love the TV program. Is the books series different that the TV series made in Canada anything like the books?

   Reply