🎯 Where Should I Start?
ⓘ About John Jakes
John Jakes is a noted American writer who was born in 1932 in Chicago, Illinois. His writings mostly include the American historical fiction and family saga. He was very fond of writing stories since the college days and used to sell a few to pulp magazines. John graduated from the DePauw University, Indiana in the year 1953 and later joined the Ohio State University and got his M.A in American Literature. He started writing for a pharmaceutical corporation and some advertisement agencies after completing in schooling. He used to write short stories at night in mystery and science fiction genres and publish them for livelihood. John Jakesbegan writing professionally when he was still studying in the Northwestern UNiversity and received his first check of $25 when he was only 18 years old. Rising to prominence with the Publication Order of Standalone Novels series, John Jakes 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 John Jakes
Johnny Havoc
Johnny Havoc continues the Publication Order of Johnny Havoc Books story arc with John Jakes's signature blend of plot twists and unforgettable characters.
Havoc for Sale / Havoc Meets Zelda
Readers dive deeper into the world of Publication Order of Johnny Havoc Books with Havoc for Sale / Havoc Meets Zelda, another outstanding contribution from John Jakes.
Holiday for Havoc / And The Doll Who Had 'It'
Holiday for Havoc / And The Doll Who Had 'It' continues the Publication Order of Johnny Havoc Books story arc with John Jakes's signature blend of plot twists and unforgettable characters.
Johnny Havoc and the Siren in Red / Making It Big
Johnny Havoc and the Siren in Red / Making It Big is an essential installment in the Publication Order of Johnny Havoc Books series, delivering the tension and character depth that fans of John Jakes have come to expect.
Make Mine Mavis
Make Mine Mavis continues the Publication Order of Lou Largo Books story arc with John Jakes's signature blend of plot twists and unforgettable characters.
And So to Bed
And So to Bed is an essential installment in the Publication Order of Lou Largo Books series, delivering the tension and character depth that fans of John Jakes have come to expect.
Give Me This Woman
Readers dive deeper into the world of Publication Order of Lou Largo Books with Give Me This Woman, another outstanding contribution from John Jakes.
The Planet Wizard
Magic takes center stage in The Planet Wizard, a spellbinding addition to the Publication Order of II Galaxy Books series that expands the enchanting world created by John Jakes.
Tonight We Steal the Stars
Tonight We Steal the Stars is an essential installment in the Publication Order of II Galaxy Books series, delivering the tension and character depth that fans of John Jakes have come to expect.
The Wagered World
Readers dive deeper into the world of Publication Order of II Galaxy Books with The Wagered World, another outstanding contribution from John Jakes.
Brak the Barbarian
Readers dive deeper into the world of Publication Order of Brak the Barbarian Books with Brak the Barbarian, another outstanding contribution from John Jakes.
Brak vs. The Sorceress / Witch of the Four Winds
Magic takes center stage in Brak vs. The Sorceress / Witch of the Four Winds, a spellbinding addition to the Publication Order of Brak the Barbarian Books series that expands the enchanting world created by John Jakes.
Brak vs. the Mark of the Demons
Brak vs. the Mark of the Demons is an essential installment in the Publication Order of Brak the Barbarian Books series, delivering the tension and character depth that fans of John Jakes have come to expect.
When the Idols Walked
When the Idols Walked is an essential installment in the Publication Order of Brak the Barbarian Books series, delivering the tension and character depth that fans of John Jakes have come to expect.
The Fortunes of Brak
The Fortunes of Brak is an essential installment in the Publication Order of Brak the Barbarian Books series, delivering the tension and character depth that fans of John Jakes have come to expect.
Witch of the Dark Gate
Magic takes center stage in Witch of the Dark Gate, a spellbinding addition to the Publication Order of Gavin Black Books series that expands the enchanting world created by John Jakes.
The Bastard
The Bastard is an essential installment in the Publication Order of Kent Family Books series, delivering the tension and character depth that fans of John Jakes have come to expect.
The Rebels
The Rebels continues the Publication Order of Kent Family Books story arc with John Jakes's signature blend of plot twists and unforgettable characters.
The Seekers
Readers dive deeper into the world of Publication Order of Kent Family Books with The Seekers, another outstanding contribution from John Jakes.
The Furies
The Furies continues the Publication Order of Kent Family Books story arc with John Jakes's signature blend of plot twists and unforgettable characters.
The Titans
Readers dive deeper into the world of Publication Order of Kent Family Books with The Titans, another outstanding contribution from John Jakes.
The Warriors
Conflict and courage define The Warriors, an action-packed entry in the Publication Order of Kent Family Books series by John Jakes that puts the heroes through their toughest challenges yet.
The Lawless
Readers dive deeper into the world of Publication Order of Kent Family Books with The Lawless, another outstanding contribution from John Jakes.
The Americans
The Americans is an essential installment in the Publication Order of Kent Family Books series, delivering the tension and character depth that fans of John Jakes have come to expect.
Conquest of the Planet of the Apes
Epic adventure awaits in Conquest of the Planet of the Apes, a landmark entry in the Publication Order of Planet of the Apes Books series that raises the stakes across the realm John Jakes has built.
North and South
North and South continues the Publication Order of North and South Books story arc with John Jakes's signature blend of plot twists and unforgettable characters.
Love and War
Love and War explores the depths of love and connection in this compelling entry of the Publication Order of North and South Books series by John Jakes.
Heaven and Hell
Heaven and Hell continues the Publication Order of North and South Books story arc with John Jakes's signature blend of plot twists and unforgettable characters.
Homeland
Homeland continues the Publication Order of The Crown Family Saga Books story arc with John Jakes's signature blend of plot twists and unforgettable characters.
American Dreams
American Dreams is an essential installment in the Publication Order of The Crown Family Saga Books series, delivering the tension and character depth that fans of John Jakes have come to expect.
The Texans Ride North
Readers dive deeper into the world of Publication Order of Standalone Novels with The Texans Ride North, another outstanding contribution from John Jakes.
Wear a Fast Gun
Wear a Fast Gun is an essential installment in the Publication Order of Standalone Novels series, delivering the tension and character depth that fans of John Jakes have come to expect.
The Devil Has Four Faces
Readers dive deeper into the world of Publication Order of Standalone Novels with The Devil Has Four Faces, another outstanding contribution from John Jakes.
The Seventh Man
The Seventh Man is an essential installment in the Publication Order of Standalone Novels series, delivering the tension and character depth that fans of John Jakes have come to expect.
I, Barbarian
I, Barbarian is an essential installment in the Publication Order of Standalone Novels series, delivering the tension and character depth that fans of John Jakes have come to expect.
The Imposter
Readers dive deeper into the world of Publication Order of Standalone Novels with The Imposter, another outstanding contribution from John Jakes.
Strike the Black Flag
Strike the Black Flag continues the Publication Order of Standalone Novels story arc with John Jakes's signature blend of plot twists and unforgettable characters.
Veils of Salome
Veils of Salome is an essential installment in the Publication Order of Standalone Novels series, delivering the tension and character depth that fans of John Jakes have come to expect.
Sir Scoundrel
Sir Scoundrel is an essential installment in the Publication Order of Standalone Novels series, delivering the tension and character depth that fans of John Jakes have come to expect.
The Man from Cannae
The Man from Cannae continues the Publication Order of Standalone Novels story arc with John Jakes's signature blend of plot twists and unforgettable characters.
G. I. Girls
G. I. Girls is an essential installment in the Publication Order of Standalone Novels series, delivering the tension and character depth that fans of John Jakes have come to expect.
Traitors' Legion
Traitors' Legion is an essential installment in the Publication Order of Standalone Novels series, delivering the tension and character depth that fans of John Jakes have come to expect.
Arena
Arena continues the Publication Order of Standalone Novels story arc with John Jakes's signature blend of plot twists and unforgettable characters.
Secrets of Stardeep
Secrets of Stardeep continues the Publication Order of Standalone Novels story arc with John Jakes's signature blend of plot twists and unforgettable characters.
The Asylum World
The Asylum World is an essential installment in the Publication Order of Standalone Novels series, delivering the tension and character depth that fans of John Jakes have come to expect.
The Last Magicians
Magic takes center stage in The Last Magicians, a spellbinding addition to the Publication Order of Standalone Novels series that expands the enchanting world created by John Jakes.
The Hybrid
Readers dive deeper into the world of Publication Order of Standalone Novels with The Hybrid, another outstanding contribution from John Jakes.
Six-Gun Planet
Readers dive deeper into the world of Publication Order of Standalone Novels with Six-Gun Planet, another outstanding contribution from John Jakes.
Black in Time
Readers dive deeper into the world of Publication Order of Standalone Novels with Black in Time, another outstanding contribution from John Jakes.
Monte Cristo #99
Monte Cristo #99 is an essential installment in the Publication Order of Standalone Novels series, delivering the tension and character depth that fans of John Jakes have come to expect.
The Star Virus/Mask of Chaos
The Star Virus/Mask of Chaos continues the Publication Order of Standalone Novels story arc with John Jakes's signature blend of plot twists and unforgettable characters.
Time Gate
Readers dive deeper into the world of Publication Order of Standalone Novels with Time Gate, another outstanding contribution from John Jakes.
Mention My Name in Atlantis
Readers dive deeper into the world of Publication Order of Standalone Novels with Mention My Name in Atlantis, another outstanding contribution from John Jakes.
On Wheels
On Wheels continues the Publication Order of Standalone Novels story arc with John Jakes's signature blend of plot twists and unforgettable characters.
Fortune's Whirlwind
Fortune's Whirlwind continues the Publication Order of Standalone Novels story arc with John Jakes's signature blend of plot twists and unforgettable characters.
To an Unknown Shore
To an Unknown Shore is an essential installment in the Publication Order of Standalone Novels series, delivering the tension and character depth that fans of John Jakes have come to expect.
King's Crusader
Readers dive deeper into the world of Publication Order of Standalone Novels with King's Crusader, another outstanding contribution from John Jakes.
A Night for Treason
A Night for Treason is an essential installment in the Publication Order of Standalone Novels series, delivering the tension and character depth that fans of John Jakes have come to expect.
California Gold
Readers dive deeper into the world of Publication Order of Standalone Novels with California Gold, another outstanding contribution from John Jakes.
On Secret Service
On Secret Service is an essential installment in the Publication Order of Standalone Novels series, delivering the tension and character depth that fans of John Jakes have come to expect.
The Bold Frontier
The Bold Frontier continues the Publication Order of Standalone Novels story arc with John Jakes's signature blend of plot twists and unforgettable characters.
Charleston
Charleston is an essential installment in the Publication Order of Standalone Novels series, delivering the tension and character depth that fans of John Jakes have come to expect.
Savannah, or A Gift for Mr. Lincoln / Savannah Christmas
Savannah, or A Gift for Mr. Lincoln / Savannah Christmas continues the Publication Order of Standalone Novels story arc with John Jakes's signature blend of plot twists and unforgettable characters.
The Gods of Newport
The Gods of Newport continues the Publication Order of Standalone Novels story arc with John Jakes's signature blend of plot twists and unforgettable characters.
Ghoul's Garden
Ghoul's Garden is an essential installment in the Publication Order of Short Stories/Novellas series, delivering the tension and character depth that fans of John Jakes have come to expect.
The Best of John Jakes
The Best of John Jakes is an essential installment in the Publication Order of Short Story Collections series, delivering the tension and character depth that fans of John Jakes have come to expect.
The Best Western Stories of John Jakes
The Best Western Stories of John Jakes continues the Publication Order of Short Story Collections story arc with John Jakes's signature blend of plot twists and unforgettable characters.
Charles Dickens' A Christmas Carol
Readers dive deeper into the world of Publication Order of Plays with Charles Dickens' A Christmas Carol, another outstanding contribution from John Jakes.
Famous Firsts in Sports
Readers dive deeper into the world of Publication Order of Non-Fiction Books with Famous Firsts in Sports, another outstanding contribution from John Jakes.
Great Women Reporters
Readers dive deeper into the world of Publication Order of Non-Fiction Books with Great Women Reporters, another outstanding contribution from John Jakes.
Mohawk: The Life of Joseph Brant
Mohawk: The Life of Joseph Brant is an essential installment in the Publication Order of Non-Fiction Books series, delivering the tension and character depth that fans of John Jakes have come to expect.
Orbit 3
Orbit 3 is an essential installment in the Publication Order of Anthologies series, delivering the tension and character depth that fans of John Jakes have come to expect.
Swords Against Tomorrow
Epic adventure awaits in Swords Against Tomorrow, a landmark entry in the Publication Order of Anthologies series that raises the stakes across the realm John Jakes has built.
Flashing Swords! #2
Epic adventure awaits in Flashing Swords! #2, a landmark entry in the Publication Order of Anthologies series that raises the stakes across the realm John Jakes has built.
Fantastic Stories Special - 1975 Sword & Sorcery Annual
Epic adventure awaits in Fantastic Stories Special - 1975 Sword & Sorcery Annual, a landmark entry in the Publication Order of Anthologies series that raises the stakes across the realm John Jakes has built.
Six Science Fiction Plays
Six Science Fiction Plays continues the Publication Order of Anthologies story arc with John Jakes's signature blend of plot twists and unforgettable characters.
Deadly Arts
A gripping mystery unfolds in Deadly Arts as the investigation takes deadly new turns. This installment of the Publication Order of Anthologies series showcases John Jakes's mastery of suspense.
Tales of Mystery
Tales of Mystery is an essential installment in the Publication Order of Anthologies series, delivering the tension and character depth that fans of John Jakes have come to expect.
New Trails: Twenty-Three Original Stories
New Trails: Twenty-Three Original Stories is an essential installment in the Publication Order of Anthologies series, delivering the tension and character depth that fans of John Jakes have come to expect.
The Mammoth Book of Short Spy Novels
Readers dive deeper into the world of Publication Order of Anthologies with The Mammoth Book of Short Spy Novels, another outstanding contribution from John Jakes.
100 Sneaky Little Sleuth Stories
100 Sneaky Little Sleuth Stories is an essential installment in the Publication Order of Anthologies series, delivering the tension and character depth that fans of John Jakes have come to expect.
Hollywood Fantasies: Ten Surreal Visions of Tinsel Town
Hollywood Fantasies: Ten Surreal Visions of Tinsel Town is an essential installment in the Publication Order of Anthologies series, delivering the tension and character depth that fans of John Jakes have come to expect.
The Best of the American West II
Readers dive deeper into the world of Publication Order of Anthologies with The Best of the American West II, another outstanding contribution from John Jakes.
A Century of Great Western Stories
A Century of Great Western Stories is an essential installment in the Publication Order of Anthologies series, delivering the tension and character depth that fans of John Jakes have come to expect.
The Spider Chronicles
The Spider Chronicles is an essential installment in the Publication Order of Anthologies series, delivering the tension and character depth that fans of John Jakes have come to expect.
Law of the Gun
Readers dive deeper into the world of Publication Order of Anthologies with Law of the Gun, another outstanding contribution from John Jakes.
Science Fiction Gems, Vol. One
Science Fiction Gems, Vol. One continues the Publication Order of Anthologies story arc with John Jakes's signature blend of plot twists and unforgettable characters.
Science Fiction Gems, Volume 9
Science Fiction Gems, Volume 9 is an essential installment in the Publication Order of Anthologies series, delivering the tension and character depth that fans of John Jakes have come to expect.
Silent Night, Deadly Night
A gripping mystery unfolds in Silent Night, Deadly Night as the investigation takes deadly new turns. This installment of the Publication Order of Anthologies series showcases John Jakes's mastery of suspense.
? Frequently Asked Questions
Who is John Jakes?
John Jakes is a bestselling author known for 15 book series containing over 89 books. Popular series include Publication Order of Johnny Havoc Books, Publication Order of Lou Largo Books, Publication Order of II Galaxy Books. Their work spans multiple genres and has captivated millions of readers worldwide.
What is the best John Jakes series to start with?
For readers new to John Jakes's work, the Publication Order of Standalone Novels series is the ideal entry point. It showcases the author's signature style and contains 34 books. Begin with The Texans Ride North to start from the very beginning.
How many books has John Jakes written?
John Jakes has written over 89 books across 15 series. This prolific output covers multiple genres, making them one of the most versatile authors in contemporary fiction.
Should I read John Jakes books in order?
Yes, reading John Jakes'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 John Jakes write in?
John Jakes writes primarily in fiction. With 15 series across 89 books, the author has explored a wide range of themes and storytelling approaches throughout their career.
Are John Jakes's books standalone or must they be read as a series?
Most of John Jakes'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 John Jakes's most popular book?
Based on reader reviews and sales data, John Jakes's most celebrated works come from the Publication Order of Standalone Novels series. The first book, The Texans Ride North, is widely considered the ideal starting point and consistently receives outstanding reader ratings.