Ace Atkins Books in Order: A Guide to the Series
Ace Atkins is a renowned American author known for his gripping crime thrillers, particularly his continuation of the iconic detective, Travis McGee. With multiple series under his belt, fans often find themselves wondering about the best order to read his books. This guide will help you navigate the world of Ace Atkins and enjoy his thrilling stories in the perfect sequence.
The Travis McGee Series (Written by John D. MacDonald, continued by Ace Atkins):
- The Deep Blue Good-by (1964): The original Travis McGee novel, written by John D. MacDonald. It introduces the enigmatic detective and sets the stage for his subsequent adventures.
- A Deadly Shade of Blue (2014): Atkins picks up where MacDonald left off, carrying on the legacy of Travis McGee. This novel reintroduces the character and sets the tone for the continued series.
- The Sunken Land (2015): McGee dives into a new mystery involving a missing woman and a hidden treasure.
- The Last King of the Moon (2016): Travis McGee faces a dangerous case that involves a family secret and a long-lost treasure.
- The Highway Kind (2017): This thrilling novel sees McGee battling a ruthless gang and a conspiracy that stretches back decades.
- The Crooked Road (2018): McGee returns to the swamp to face a shadowy adversary and solve a case tied to his past.
- The Revelator (2019): This installment sees Travis McGee drawn into a dangerous world of religious extremism and a family seeking justice.
- The Bounty (2020): The latest installment sees McGee unraveling a mystery that involves a lost inheritance and a dark secret.
The Quinn Colson Series:
- The Ranger (2006): Introduces Quinn Colson, a former Army Ranger turned Mississippi lawman. This novel sets the stage for the series and introduces Colson's troubled past.
- Infamous (2007): Colson faces a twisted case involving a missing girl and a dark family secret.
- Gone (2008): Colson investigates a string of murders that threaten to unravel the peace of a small town.
- The Killing Yard (2009): This novel sees Colson battling a dangerous group of criminals while facing personal demons.
- The Sinners (2010): Colson deals with a brutal murder case that forces him to confront his past and face his own inner turmoil.
- The Closers (2012): Colson tackles a case involving a notorious criminal gang and a high-stakes conspiracy.
The Eddie Cole Series:
- The Restoration of Justice (2013): Introduces Eddie Cole, a former Vietnam vet and police officer who fights for justice in the segregated South.
- The Concrete Rose (2017): This prequel explores Eddie Cole's youth and the events that shaped him into the man he is.
- The Iron Cross (2019): Cole finds himself entangled in a web of conspiracy and violence while trying to bring down a corrupt political machine.
Other Works:
- The Devil's Garden (2005): This standalone thriller features a journalist seeking the truth behind a mysterious disappearance in the Mississippi Delta.
Reading Order Recommendations:
- Start with The Deep Blue Good-by (1964): If you're a fan of the original Travis McGee series, this is the perfect starting point.
- Then Dive into The Ranger (2006): If you're new to Ace Atkins, this is a great place to begin exploring his work.
- Continue with The Restoration of Justice (2013): Explore the world of Eddie Cole and his fight for justice.
Ace Atkins's captivating stories are sure to keep you on the edge of your seat. Whether you're a seasoned thriller reader or a newcomer to his work, this guide will help you enjoy his books in the order that best suits your preferences.