Richard Stevenson

Richard Stevenson is the pen name of Richard Lipez (1938-2022), an American journalist and mystery novelist best known for creating the Donald Strachey series of detective novels featuring a gay private investigator in Albany, New York. The Donald Strachey mysteries, which began with "Death Trick" in 1981, were among the first mainstream detective series to feature an openly gay protagonist. Stevenson wrote thirteen books in the series, with the final novel "Killer Reunion" published in 2019. Four of the Strachey novels were adapted into television films for Here TV between 2005 and 2008. Beyond his mystery writing, Stevenson worked as a journalist and book critic, regularly contributing reviews to The Washington Post and The Boston Globe. His work helped advance LGBTQ+ representation in mystery fiction during a time when such characters were rare in the genre.

Readers value Stevenson's Donald Strachey series for bringing a complex gay protagonist to detective fiction without making his sexuality the central focus. Many reviews note the natural integration of LGBTQ+ characters and issues into traditional mystery plots. Readers praise: - Strong character development across the series - Sharp dialogue and humor - Accurate portrayal of Albany's geography and culture - Balance between social commentary and entertainment "The mysteries are solid and the relationship between Don and Timmy feels real," notes one Amazon reviewer. Common criticisms: - Plot pacing can be uneven - Later books in series feel formulaic - Some dated cultural references - Variable quality of writing across books Ratings average: Goodreads: 3.8/5 across series Amazon: 4.2/5 across series Individual books range from 3.5-4.3 stars Most recommended entry points: "Death Trick" (first book) and "Ice Blues" (fourth book), with readers citing these as strongest examples of the author's style.

Death Trick - A gay detective novel set in Albany that introduces private investigator Donald Strachey as he investigates the apparent suicide of a young man.

On the Other Hand, Death - Donald Strachey investigates threats against a lesbian couple who are being pressured to leave their neighborhood.

Ice Blues - Strachey becomes involved in a case involving a large sum of money and murder when his lover Timothy asks him to deliver a mysterious envelope.

Third Man Out - The detective investigates the murder of a gay activist who was known for exposing closeted public figures.

Shock to the System - Strachey looks into suspicious deaths at a conversion therapy clinic that claims to "cure" homosexuality.

Chain of Fools - The PI searches for a missing heir while dealing with a string of murders connected to an old case.

Strachey's Folly - Strachey investigates the murder of a gay newspaper publisher while protecting a young man who witnessed the crime.

Death Vows - The detective works to uncover the truth behind threats made against a same-sex wedding ceremony.

Tongue Tied - Strachey investigates death threats against a right-wing radio host who has been targeting the gay community.

Red White Black and Blue - The PI becomes entangled in political intrigue when working a case involving a conservative politician's son.

The 38 Million Dollar Smile - Strachey travels to Thailand while investigating the disappearance of a wealthy American businessman.

Joseph Hansen writes detective novels featuring an insurance investigator who is gay, predating Stevenson's Donald Strachey series. His Dave Brandstetter mysteries share similar themes of investigating crimes while depicting gay life and relationships.

Michael Nava created the Henry Rios mystery series about a gay Latino criminal defense lawyer in California. His books tackle social issues and discrimination while maintaining focus on complex criminal investigations.

Josh Lanyon produces mystery fiction centered on gay male protagonists who solve crimes while navigating relationships. The Adrien English series follows a bookstore owner who becomes involved in murder investigations.

John Morgan Wilson writes the Benjamin Justice mystery series about a disgraced journalist solving crimes in West Hollywood. His protagonist deals with being HIV-positive while uncovering murders in the gay community.

Mark Richard Zubro created two mystery series featuring gay male protagonists - one about a high school teacher and another about a police detective. His books combine procedural crime-solving with exploration of gay life in Chicago.