Posted on June 26th, 2025.

If you’re on the hunt for your next can’t-put-down crime thriller series, look no further than the riveting Mike Ash novels by David L. Ashmore. With gripping storylines, emotional depth, and authentic characters, this series is the perfect blend of page-turning suspense and real-world relevance. Whether you’re a dedicated fan of detective fiction or new to the genre, Ashmore’s work is bound to leave a lasting impression.

The Power of a Well-Crafted Detective Series

Crime fiction has long been a reader favorite, and for good reason. The best crime thrillers do more than entertain; they challenge us to think critically, explore the gray areas of morality, and follow intricate plots that test our deductive skills. David L. Ashmore’s Mike Ash series excels in every one of these areas.

Set against the richly textured backdrop of Tampa, Florida, Ashmore’s novels offer readers not just a thrilling mystery, but an emotional journey through the eyes of a veteran-turned-detective. Each book in the series introduces high-stakes cases, multilayered characters, and moral dilemmas that keep readers flipping pages well into the night.

Meet Mike Ash: More Than Just a Detective

Detective Mike Ash isn’t your typical crime novel protagonist. A former Army Ranger with a complicated past, Mike brings a unique perspective to his work in law enforcement. His military background informs his investigations, but it also haunts him, adding layers of internal conflict and emotional complexity.

Ashmore has created a character that is both tough and vulnerable, analytical and intuitive. Mike Ash is a man struggling to balance justice with empathy, procedure with instinct. As readers, we’re drawn not just to his cases but to his journey of healing and self-discovery.

The Novels: An Overview of the Mike Ash Series

Let’s take a closer look at the novels that make up this compelling series:

1. Unfinished Business

The series begins with a bang. Mike Ash is pulled into a case that seems open and shut—until new evidence suggests a deeper conspiracy. As he unravels a web of deceit and long-buried secrets, Mike must also confront personal demons and unresolved traumas.

2. Business As Usual

In this second installment, Mike is coping with the loss of a close friend while juggling a perplexing case involving a suspected suicide and a string of violent crimes. The narrative explores themes of grief, PTSD, and moral accountability, making it one of the most emotionally resonant entries in the series.

3. Taking Care of Business

The third book ups the ante with multiple murders, high-level corruption, and a killer using sophisticated technology to execute their own brand of vigilante justice. As Mike tries to connect the dots, he also navigates significant personal milestones, including his marriage.

Each novel stands alone but also contributes to a larger, evolving narrative arc that deepens your understanding of the characters and their world.

What Sets Ashmore Apart

In a crowded genre, David L. Ashmore stands out for several reasons:

• Authenticity: Ashmore draws on real-life issues, including veterans' challenges, addiction, and mental health, giving his stories a sense of urgency and realism.
• Complex Characters: The emotional depth of the characters, especially Mike Ash, makes for an immersive reading experience.
• Intricate Plots: These are not your typical whodunits. The series features layered mysteries with red herrings, multiple suspects, and jaw-dropping twists.
• Rich Setting: Tampa isn’t just a backdrop—it’s a character in itself. Locals will recognize familiar streets, while outsiders will be drawn into the city’s dynamic landscape.

Why This Series Belongs on Your Summer Reading List

Summer is the perfect time to dive into a good book, and the Mike Ash series is ideal for binge reading. The stories are fast-paced but meaningful, complex yet accessible. Whether you’re lounging on the beach, curled up on a rainy afternoon, or traveling, Ashmore’s novels will keep you hooked.

They also offer a mental workout. Crime fiction requires readers to engage their problem-solving skills, make predictions, and connect dots—all while enjoying a compelling story. Add in the emotional depth and moral questions posed in Ashmore’s writing, and you have a series that stimulates both heart and mind.

Reader Praise and Critical Acclaim

David L. Ashmore’s work has been praised across platforms like Amazon, BookBub, and Goodreads. Here are just a few snippets from reader reviews:

• “I couldn’t put it down. The suspense was non-stop, and the ending was brilliant!”
• “It’s fun to read about familiar places in Tampa. The scenes come alive!”
• “Mike Ash is a hero we can root for—flawed, brave, and deeply human.”

These testimonials speak to the universal appeal of the series. Whether you’re a Tampa native or a newcomer to Ashmore’s work, the stories resonate.

Final Thoughts: Your Next Crime Fiction Obsession

If you love detective fiction with substance, thrillers with heart, and characters that grow with every chapter, the Mike Ash series is for you. With new books continuing to build on a strong foundation, now is the perfect time to dive in.

So go ahead. Clear your weekend. Brew a strong cup of coffee. And prepare to get lost in the world of Mike Ash.

Don’t miss your next favorite detective series.

Start reading David L. Ashmore’s gripping crime novels today:
👉 https://dlashmoreauthor.com/books