🎯 Where Should I Start?
ⓘ About Ed McBain
Despite being an American, Ed McBain’s work was often adapted to films in other countries. Some of his novels were loosely translated in to French films, such as “Blood Relatives” and “Without Apparent Motive”. Both these films became successful in France. In 1963, Japanese director took McBain’s 1959 novel, “King’s Ransom” and created the movie “High and Low”. One adaptation of McBain’s work that was made and set in America is the 1966 film drama, “Mr Buddwing”. This film is based on the McBain’s 1964 novel, Buddwing. Interestingly at the time, this novel was published under the name Evan Hunter. The film humorously depicts a man who wakes up on a bench in Central Park, New York, with absolutely no idea who he is or how he got there. Rising to prominence with the Publication Order of 87th Precinct Books series, Ed McBain has since expanded their repertoire to include numerous successful works across various genres. Their writing style, characterized by compelling narratives and memorable characters, has earned them a dedicated global readership with millions of fans worldwide.
📚 All Book Series by Ed McBain
Cop Hater
Cop Hater continues the Publication Order of 87th Precinct Books story arc with Ed McBain's signature blend of plot twists and unforgettable characters.
The Mugger
Readers dive deeper into the world of Publication Order of 87th Precinct Books with The Mugger, another outstanding contribution from Ed McBain.
The Pusher
The Pusher continues the Publication Order of 87th Precinct Books story arc with Ed McBain's signature blend of plot twists and unforgettable characters.
The Con Man
Readers dive deeper into the world of Publication Order of 87th Precinct Books with The Con Man, another outstanding contribution from Ed McBain.
Killer's Choice
A gripping mystery unfolds in Killer's Choice as the investigation takes deadly new turns. This installment of the Publication Order of 87th Precinct Books series showcases Ed McBain's mastery of suspense.
Lady Killer
A gripping mystery unfolds in Lady Killer as the investigation takes deadly new turns. This installment of the Publication Order of 87th Precinct Books series showcases Ed McBain's mastery of suspense.
Killer's Wedge
A gripping mystery unfolds in Killer's Wedge as the investigation takes deadly new turns. This installment of the Publication Order of 87th Precinct Books series showcases Ed McBain's mastery of suspense.
Killer's Payoff
A gripping mystery unfolds in Killer's Payoff as the investigation takes deadly new turns. This installment of the Publication Order of 87th Precinct Books series showcases Ed McBain's mastery of suspense.
King's Ransom
King's Ransom is an essential installment in the Publication Order of 87th Precinct Books series, delivering the tension and character depth that fans of Ed McBain have come to expect.
'Til Death
A gripping mystery unfolds in 'Til Death as the investigation takes deadly new turns. This installment of the Publication Order of 87th Precinct Books series showcases Ed McBain's mastery of suspense.
Give the Boys a Great Big Hand
Give the Boys a Great Big Hand continues the Publication Order of 87th Precinct Books story arc with Ed McBain's signature blend of plot twists and unforgettable characters.
The Heckler
The Heckler is an essential installment in the Publication Order of 87th Precinct Books series, delivering the tension and character depth that fans of Ed McBain have come to expect.
See Them Die
See Them Die continues the Publication Order of 87th Precinct Books story arc with Ed McBain's signature blend of plot twists and unforgettable characters.
Lady, Lady, I Did It!
Lady, Lady, I Did It! continues the Publication Order of 87th Precinct Books story arc with Ed McBain's signature blend of plot twists and unforgettable characters.
The Empty Hours
Readers dive deeper into the world of Publication Order of 87th Precinct Books with The Empty Hours, another outstanding contribution from Ed McBain.
Like Love
Like Love explores the depths of love and connection in this compelling entry of the Publication Order of 87th Precinct Books series by Ed McBain.
Ten Plus One
Ten Plus One is an essential installment in the Publication Order of 87th Precinct Books series, delivering the tension and character depth that fans of Ed McBain have come to expect.
Ax / Axe
Ax / Axe is an essential installment in the Publication Order of 87th Precinct Books series, delivering the tension and character depth that fans of Ed McBain have come to expect.
He Who Hesitates
Readers dive deeper into the world of Publication Order of 87th Precinct Books with He Who Hesitates, another outstanding contribution from Ed McBain.
Doll
Readers dive deeper into the world of Publication Order of 87th Precinct Books with Doll, another outstanding contribution from Ed McBain.
Eighty Million Eyes
Eighty Million Eyes is an essential installment in the Publication Order of 87th Precinct Books series, delivering the tension and character depth that fans of Ed McBain have come to expect.
Fuzz
Readers dive deeper into the world of Publication Order of 87th Precinct Books with Fuzz, another outstanding contribution from Ed McBain.
Shotgun
Readers dive deeper into the world of Publication Order of 87th Precinct Books with Shotgun, another outstanding contribution from Ed McBain.
Jigsaw
Jigsaw continues the Publication Order of 87th Precinct Books story arc with Ed McBain's signature blend of plot twists and unforgettable characters.
Hail, Hail, the Gang's All Here!
Hail, Hail, the Gang's All Here! continues the Publication Order of 87th Precinct Books story arc with Ed McBain's signature blend of plot twists and unforgettable characters.
Sadie When She Died
Sadie When She Died is an essential installment in the Publication Order of 87th Precinct Books series, delivering the tension and character depth that fans of Ed McBain have come to expect.
Let's Hear It for the Deaf Man
Let's Hear It for the Deaf Man is an essential installment in the Publication Order of 87th Precinct Books series, delivering the tension and character depth that fans of Ed McBain have come to expect.
Hail to the Chief
Readers dive deeper into the world of Publication Order of 87th Precinct Books with Hail to the Chief, another outstanding contribution from Ed McBain.
Bread
Bread is an essential installment in the Publication Order of 87th Precinct Books series, delivering the tension and character depth that fans of Ed McBain have come to expect.
Blood Relatives
A gripping mystery unfolds in Blood Relatives as the investigation takes deadly new turns. This installment of the Publication Order of 87th Precinct Books series showcases Ed McBain's mastery of suspense.
So Long as You Both Shall Live
So Long as You Both Shall Live is an essential installment in the Publication Order of 87th Precinct Books series, delivering the tension and character depth that fans of Ed McBain have come to expect.
Long Time No See
Readers dive deeper into the world of Publication Order of 87th Precinct Books with Long Time No See, another outstanding contribution from Ed McBain.
Ghosts
Ghosts is an essential installment in the Publication Order of 87th Precinct Books series, delivering the tension and character depth that fans of Ed McBain have come to expect.
Calypso
Readers dive deeper into the world of Publication Order of 87th Precinct Books with Calypso, another outstanding contribution from Ed McBain.
Heat
Heat continues the Publication Order of 87th Precinct Books story arc with Ed McBain's signature blend of plot twists and unforgettable characters.
Ice
Readers dive deeper into the world of Publication Order of 87th Precinct Books with Ice, another outstanding contribution from Ed McBain.
Lightning
Lightning is an essential installment in the Publication Order of 87th Precinct Books series, delivering the tension and character depth that fans of Ed McBain have come to expect.
And All Through The House
And All Through The House is an essential installment in the Publication Order of 87th Precinct Books series, delivering the tension and character depth that fans of Ed McBain have come to expect.
Eight Black Horses
Eight Black Horses continues the Publication Order of 87th Precinct Books story arc with Ed McBain's signature blend of plot twists and unforgettable characters.
Poison
Poison is an essential installment in the Publication Order of 87th Precinct Books series, delivering the tension and character depth that fans of Ed McBain have come to expect.
Lullaby
Lullaby is an essential installment in the Publication Order of 87th Precinct Books series, delivering the tension and character depth that fans of Ed McBain have come to expect.
Vespers
Readers dive deeper into the world of Publication Order of 87th Precinct Books with Vespers, another outstanding contribution from Ed McBain.
Tricks
Readers dive deeper into the world of Publication Order of 87th Precinct Books with Tricks, another outstanding contribution from Ed McBain.
Widows
Widows continues the Publication Order of 87th Precinct Books story arc with Ed McBain's signature blend of plot twists and unforgettable characters.
Kiss
Kiss explores the depths of love and connection in this compelling entry of the Publication Order of 87th Precinct Books series by Ed McBain.
Mischief
Readers dive deeper into the world of Publication Order of 87th Precinct Books with Mischief, another outstanding contribution from Ed McBain.
Romance
Romance explores the depths of love and connection in this compelling entry of the Publication Order of 87th Precinct Books series by Ed McBain.
Nocturne
Nocturne is an essential installment in the Publication Order of 87th Precinct Books series, delivering the tension and character depth that fans of Ed McBain have come to expect.
The Big Bad City
The Big Bad City is an essential installment in the Publication Order of 87th Precinct Books series, delivering the tension and character depth that fans of Ed McBain have come to expect.
The Last Dance
Readers dive deeper into the world of Publication Order of 87th Precinct Books with The Last Dance, another outstanding contribution from Ed McBain.
Money, Money, Money
Readers dive deeper into the world of Publication Order of 87th Precinct Books with Money, Money, Money, another outstanding contribution from Ed McBain.
Fat Ollie's Book
Fat Ollie's Book continues the Publication Order of 87th Precinct Books story arc with Ed McBain's signature blend of plot twists and unforgettable characters.
The Frumious Bandersnatch
Readers dive deeper into the world of Publication Order of 87th Precinct Books with The Frumious Bandersnatch, another outstanding contribution from Ed McBain.
Hark!
Hark! is an essential installment in the Publication Order of 87th Precinct Books series, delivering the tension and character depth that fans of Ed McBain have come to expect.
Fiddlers
Fiddlers continues the Publication Order of 87th Precinct Books story arc with Ed McBain's signature blend of plot twists and unforgettable characters.
Goldilocks
Goldilocks continues the Publication Order of Matthew Hope Books story arc with Ed McBain's signature blend of plot twists and unforgettable characters.
Rumpelstiltskin
Rumpelstiltskin continues the Publication Order of Matthew Hope Books story arc with Ed McBain's signature blend of plot twists and unforgettable characters.
Beauty and the Beast
Beauty and the Beast is an essential installment in the Publication Order of Matthew Hope Books series, delivering the tension and character depth that fans of Ed McBain have come to expect.
Jack and the Beanstalk
Jack and the Beanstalk continues the Publication Order of Matthew Hope Books story arc with Ed McBain's signature blend of plot twists and unforgettable characters.
Snow White and Rose Red
Snow White and Rose Red continues the Publication Order of Matthew Hope Books story arc with Ed McBain's signature blend of plot twists and unforgettable characters.
Cinderella
Cinderella is an essential installment in the Publication Order of Matthew Hope Books series, delivering the tension and character depth that fans of Ed McBain have come to expect.
Puss in Boots
Readers dive deeper into the world of Publication Order of Matthew Hope Books with Puss in Boots, another outstanding contribution from Ed McBain.
The House That Jack Built
The House That Jack Built continues the Publication Order of Matthew Hope Books story arc with Ed McBain's signature blend of plot twists and unforgettable characters.
Three Blind Mice
Three Blind Mice is an essential installment in the Publication Order of Matthew Hope Books series, delivering the tension and character depth that fans of Ed McBain have come to expect.
Mary, Mary
Mary, Mary is an essential installment in the Publication Order of Matthew Hope Books series, delivering the tension and character depth that fans of Ed McBain have come to expect.
There Was A Little Girl
There Was A Little Girl is an essential installment in the Publication Order of Matthew Hope Books series, delivering the tension and character depth that fans of Ed McBain have come to expect.
Gladly the Cross-Eyed Bear
Gladly the Cross-Eyed Bear is an essential installment in the Publication Order of Matthew Hope Books series, delivering the tension and character depth that fans of Ed McBain have come to expect.
The Last Best Hope
The Last Best Hope is an essential installment in the Publication Order of Matthew Hope Books series, delivering the tension and character depth that fans of Ed McBain have come to expect.
The Big Fix
Readers dive deeper into the world of Publication Order of Standalone Novels with The Big Fix, another outstanding contribution from Ed McBain.
Cut Me In
Cut Me In continues the Publication Order of Standalone Novels story arc with Ed McBain's signature blend of plot twists and unforgettable characters.
Death of a Nurse
A gripping mystery unfolds in Death of a Nurse as the investigation takes deadly new turns. This installment of the Publication Order of Standalone Novels series showcases Ed McBain's mastery of suspense.
The Gutter and the Grave
Readers dive deeper into the world of Publication Order of Standalone Novels with The Gutter and the Grave, another outstanding contribution from Ed McBain.
The Sentries
The Sentries is an essential installment in the Publication Order of Standalone Novels series, delivering the tension and character depth that fans of Ed McBain have come to expect.
Seven
Seven continues the Publication Order of Standalone Novels story arc with Ed McBain's signature blend of plot twists and unforgettable characters.
Where There's Smoke
Where There's Smoke continues the Publication Order of Standalone Novels story arc with Ed McBain's signature blend of plot twists and unforgettable characters.
Guns
Guns continues the Publication Order of Standalone Novels story arc with Ed McBain's signature blend of plot twists and unforgettable characters.
Gangs! / Walk Proud
Gangs! / Walk Proud is an essential installment in the Publication Order of Standalone Novels series, delivering the tension and character depth that fans of Ed McBain have come to expect.
Another Part of the City
Another Part of the City continues the Publication Order of Standalone Novels story arc with Ed McBain's signature blend of plot twists and unforgettable characters.
Downtown
Readers dive deeper into the world of Publication Order of Standalone Novels with Downtown, another outstanding contribution from Ed McBain.
Driving Lessons
Driving Lessons is an essential installment in the Publication Order of Standalone Novels series, delivering the tension and character depth that fans of Ed McBain have come to expect.
Alice In Jeopardy
Readers dive deeper into the world of Publication Order of Standalone Novels with Alice In Jeopardy, another outstanding contribution from Ed McBain.
Find the Feathered Serpent
Find the Feathered Serpent continues the Publication Order of Children's Books story arc with Ed McBain's signature blend of plot twists and unforgettable characters.
The McBain Brief
Readers dive deeper into the world of Publication Order of Short Story Collections with The McBain Brief, another outstanding contribution from Ed McBain.
Running from Legs and Other Stories
Running from Legs and Other Stories is an essential installment in the Publication Order of Short Story Collections series, delivering the tension and character depth that fans of Ed McBain have come to expect.
Learning to Kill
A gripping mystery unfolds in Learning to Kill as the investigation takes deadly new turns. This installment of the Publication Order of Short Story Collections series showcases Ed McBain's mastery of suspense.
Keller's Adjustment; Forever
Keller's Adjustment; Forever continues the Publication Order of Short Story Collections story arc with Ed McBain's signature blend of plot twists and unforgettable characters.
For Better and for Worse
For Better and for Worse is an essential installment in the Publication Order of Selected Shorts Books series, delivering the tension and character depth that fans of Ed McBain have come to expect.
Even More Laughs
Even More Laughs continues the Publication Order of Selected Shorts Books story arc with Ed McBain's signature blend of plot twists and unforgettable characters.
Timeless Classics
Timeless Classics is an essential installment in the Publication Order of Selected Shorts Books series, delivering the tension and character depth that fans of Ed McBain have come to expect.
Falling in Love
Falling in Love explores the depths of love and connection in this compelling entry of the Publication Order of Selected Shorts Books series by Ed McBain.
Food Fictions
Food Fictions is an essential installment in the Publication Order of Selected Shorts Books series, delivering the tension and character depth that fans of Ed McBain have come to expect.
Travel Tales
Readers dive deeper into the world of Publication Order of Selected Shorts Books with Travel Tales, another outstanding contribution from Ed McBain.
Edith Wharton
Readers dive deeper into the world of Publication Order of Selected Shorts Books with Edith Wharton, another outstanding contribution from Ed McBain.
Pets!
Pets! is an essential installment in the Publication Order of Selected Shorts Books series, delivering the tension and character depth that fans of Ed McBain have come to expect.
Tales of Betrayal
Tales of Betrayal continues the Publication Order of Selected Shorts Books story arc with Ed McBain's signature blend of plot twists and unforgettable characters.
Family Matters
Family Matters is an essential installment in the Publication Order of Selected Shorts Books series, delivering the tension and character depth that fans of Ed McBain have come to expect.
Are We There Yet?
Are We There Yet? continues the Publication Order of Selected Shorts Books story arc with Ed McBain's signature blend of plot twists and unforgettable characters.
A Touch of Magic
Magic takes center stage in A Touch of Magic, a spellbinding addition to the Publication Order of Selected Shorts Books series that expands the enchanting world created by Ed McBain.
The William Hurt Collection
The William Hurt Collection is an essential installment in the Publication Order of Selected Shorts Books series, delivering the tension and character depth that fans of Ed McBain have come to expect.
Whodunit?
Whodunit? is an essential installment in the Publication Order of Selected Shorts Books series, delivering the tension and character depth that fans of Ed McBain have come to expect.
American Classics
American Classics continues the Publication Order of Selected Shorts Books story arc with Ed McBain's signature blend of plot twists and unforgettable characters.
New American Stories
New American Stories is an essential installment in the Publication Order of Selected Shorts Books series, delivering the tension and character depth that fans of Ed McBain have come to expect.
Poe!
Poe! is an essential installment in the Publication Order of Selected Shorts Books series, delivering the tension and character depth that fans of Ed McBain have come to expect.
Great Stories of Mystery and Suspense
Readers dive deeper into the world of Publication Order of Anthologies with Great Stories of Mystery and Suspense, another outstanding contribution from Ed McBain.
Mammoth Book of Short Crime Novels
The investigation intensifies in Mammoth Book of Short Crime Novels, as this installment of the Publication Order of Anthologies series takes readers deeper into the criminal underworld of Ed McBain's creation.
The Mammoth Book of Private Eye Stories
The Mammoth Book of Private Eye Stories continues the Publication Order of Anthologies story arc with Ed McBain's signature blend of plot twists and unforgettable characters.
The Second Black Lizard Anthology of Crime Fiction
The investigation intensifies in The Second Black Lizard Anthology of Crime Fiction, as this installment of the Publication Order of Anthologies series takes readers deeper into the criminal underworld of Ed McBain's creation.
City Sleuths and Tough Guys
Readers dive deeper into the world of Publication Order of Anthologies with City Sleuths and Tough Guys, another outstanding contribution from Ed McBain.
Crimes of Passion
The investigation intensifies in Crimes of Passion, as this installment of the Publication Order of Anthologies series takes readers deeper into the criminal underworld of Ed McBain's creation.
The Year's 25 Finest Crime and Mystery Stories 1996
The investigation intensifies in The Year's 25 Finest Crime and Mystery Stories 1996, as this installment of the Publication Order of Anthologies series takes readers deeper into the criminal underworld of Ed McBain's creation.
Murder For Love
A gripping mystery unfolds in Murder For Love as the investigation takes deadly new turns. This installment of the Publication Order of Anthologies series showcases Ed McBain's mastery of suspense.
Pulp Frictions: Hardboiled Stories
Pulp Frictions: Hardboiled Stories is an essential installment in the Publication Order of Anthologies series, delivering the tension and character depth that fans of Ed McBain have come to expect.
The Oxford Book of American Detective Stories
The investigation intensifies in The Oxford Book of American Detective Stories, as this installment of the Publication Order of Anthologies series takes readers deeper into the criminal underworld of Ed McBain's creation.
Crime After Crime
The investigation intensifies in Crime After Crime, as this installment of the Publication Order of Anthologies series takes readers deeper into the criminal underworld of Ed McBain's creation.
The Best American Mystery Stories 1999
The Best American Mystery Stories 1999 is an essential installment in the Publication Order of Anthologies series, delivering the tension and character depth that fans of Ed McBain have come to expect.
The World's Finest Mystery and Crime Stories 1
The investigation intensifies in The World's Finest Mystery and Crime Stories 1, as this installment of the Publication Order of Anthologies series takes readers deeper into the criminal underworld of Ed McBain's creation.
The World's Finest Mystery and Crime Stories 2
The investigation intensifies in The World's Finest Mystery and Crime Stories 2, as this installment of the Publication Order of Anthologies series takes readers deeper into the criminal underworld of Ed McBain's creation.
Writers on Writing
Writers on Writing continues the Publication Order of Anthologies story arc with Ed McBain's signature blend of plot twists and unforgettable characters.
The Mysterious Press Anniversary Anthology: Celebrating 25 Years
The Mysterious Press Anniversary Anthology: Celebrating 25 Years is an essential installment in the Publication Order of Anthologies series, delivering the tension and character depth that fans of Ed McBain have come to expect.
The World's Finest Mystery and Crime Stories 3
The investigation intensifies in The World's Finest Mystery and Crime Stories 3, as this installment of the Publication Order of Anthologies series takes readers deeper into the criminal underworld of Ed McBain's creation.
The Longman Anthology of Detective Fiction
The investigation intensifies in The Longman Anthology of Detective Fiction, as this installment of the Publication Order of Anthologies series takes readers deeper into the criminal underworld of Ed McBain's creation.
Dangerous Women
Readers dive deeper into the world of Publication Order of Anthologies with Dangerous Women, another outstanding contribution from Ed McBain.
Transgressions
Transgressions is an essential installment in the Publication Order of Anthologies series, delivering the tension and character depth that fans of Ed McBain have come to expect.
Price of Desire
Price of Desire explores the depths of love and connection in this compelling entry of the Publication Order of Anthologies series by Ed McBain.
Transgressions, Vol. 2
Readers dive deeper into the world of Publication Order of Anthologies with Transgressions, Vol. 2, another outstanding contribution from Ed McBain.
Transgressions, Vol. 3
Readers dive deeper into the world of Publication Order of Anthologies with Transgressions, Vol. 3, another outstanding contribution from Ed McBain.
Transgressions, Vol. 4
Transgressions, Vol. 4 continues the Publication Order of Anthologies story arc with Ed McBain's signature blend of plot twists and unforgettable characters.
Masters of Noir, Volume One
Masters of Noir, Volume One continues the Publication Order of Anthologies story arc with Ed McBain's signature blend of plot twists and unforgettable characters.
Masters of Noir, Volume Three
Masters of Noir, Volume Three is an essential installment in the Publication Order of Anthologies series, delivering the tension and character depth that fans of Ed McBain have come to expect.
Books to Die For
Readers dive deeper into the world of Publication Order of Anthologies with Books to Die For, another outstanding contribution from Ed McBain.
? Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Ed McBain?
Ed McBain is a bestselling author known for 7 book series containing over 130 books. Popular series include Publication Order of 87th Precinct Books, Publication Order of Matthew Hope Books, Publication Order of Standalone Novels. Their work spans multiple genres and has captivated millions of readers worldwide.
What is the best Ed McBain series to start with?
For readers new to Ed McBain's work, the Publication Order of 87th Precinct Books series is the ideal entry point. It showcases the author's signature style and contains 55 books. Begin with Cop Hater to start from the very beginning.
How many books has Ed McBain written?
Ed McBain has written over 130 books across 7 series. This prolific output covers multiple genres, making them one of the most versatile authors in contemporary fiction.
Should I read Ed McBain books in order?
Yes, reading Ed McBain's series in publication order is strongly recommended. Most series feature evolving character arcs, ongoing story threads, and references to earlier events that are most rewarding when experienced in sequence. Our complete reading order guides are listed above.
What genre does Ed McBain write in?
Ed McBain writes primarily in fiction. With 7 series across 130 books, the author has explored a wide range of themes and storytelling approaches throughout their career.
Are Ed McBain's books standalone or must they be read as a series?
Most of Ed McBain's books are part of ongoing series and deliver the most satisfying experience when read in order. However, several standalone novels and short story collections provide excellent entry points without requiring prior knowledge of other series.
What is Ed McBain's most popular book?
Based on reader reviews and sales data, Ed McBain's most celebrated works come from the Publication Order of 87th Precinct Books series. The first book, Cop Hater, is widely considered the ideal starting point and consistently receives outstanding reader ratings.