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Kathleen Ernst

Bestselling Author • 12 Series • 41 Books

12
Series
41
Books
12
Active

🎯 Where Should I Start?

Best Starting Point
Publication Order of Chloe Ellefson Books
Start with: Old World Murder (2010)
Popular Choice
Publication Order of Hanneke Bauer Books
Start with: Lies of Omission (2021)
Popular Choice
Publication Order of White Mane Kids Books
Start with: The Night Riders of Harpers Ferry (1996)

About Kathleen Ernst

Kathleen Ernst is an award-winning author that worked as a curator, historian and as an educator before finally finding her place in the publishing arena. +Biography Kathleen Ernst was born in Pennsylvania, specifically Scranton, though most of her childhood memories revolve around Maryland where she grew up. Kathleen and her sisters were avid readers. In fact, she spent many a nightly hour hiding under her covers and reading by torchlight when she should have been sleeping. It helped that her parents had a knack for books. The family was always going around the country and visiting historical sites. And before every trip, Kathleen’s mom would bring her children fiction related to the area they were going to visit. Rising to prominence with the Publication Order of Chloe Ellefson Books series, Kathleen Ernst 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 Kathleen Ernst

Publication Order of Chloe Ellefson Books
11 books 2010–2021
1

Old World Murder

A gripping mystery unfolds in Old World Murder as the investigation takes deadly new turns. This installment of the Publication Order of Chloe Ellefson Books series showcases Kathleen Ernst's mastery of suspense.

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2010
2

The Heirloom Murders

A gripping mystery unfolds in The Heirloom Murders as the investigation takes deadly new turns. This installment of the Publication Order of Chloe Ellefson Books series showcases Kathleen Ernst's mastery of suspense.

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2011
3

The Light Keeper's Legacy

The Light Keeper's Legacy continues the Publication Order of Chloe Ellefson Books story arc with Kathleen Ernst's signature blend of plot twists and unforgettable characters.

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2012
4

Heritage of Darkness

Readers dive deeper into the world of Publication Order of Chloe Ellefson Books with Heritage of Darkness, another outstanding contribution from Kathleen Ernst.

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2013
5

Tradition of Deceit

Tradition of Deceit is an essential installment in the Publication Order of Chloe Ellefson Books series, delivering the tension and character depth that fans of Kathleen Ernst have come to expect.

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2014
6

Death on the Prairie

A gripping mystery unfolds in Death on the Prairie as the investigation takes deadly new turns. This installment of the Publication Order of Chloe Ellefson Books series showcases Kathleen Ernst's mastery of suspense.

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2015
7

A Memory of Muskets

Readers dive deeper into the world of Publication Order of Chloe Ellefson Books with A Memory of Muskets, another outstanding contribution from Kathleen Ernst.

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2016
8

Mining for Justice

Mining for Justice is an essential installment in the Publication Order of Chloe Ellefson Books series, delivering the tension and character depth that fans of Kathleen Ernst have come to expect.

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2017
9

The Lacemaker's Secret

The Lacemaker's Secret is an essential installment in the Publication Order of Chloe Ellefson Books series, delivering the tension and character depth that fans of Kathleen Ernst have come to expect.

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2018
10

Fiddling with Fate

Fiddling with Fate is an essential installment in the Publication Order of Chloe Ellefson Books series, delivering the tension and character depth that fans of Kathleen Ernst have come to expect.

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2019
11

The Weaver's Revenge

The Weaver's Revenge continues the Publication Order of Chloe Ellefson Books story arc with Kathleen Ernst's signature blend of plot twists and unforgettable characters.

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2021
Publication Order of Hanneke Bauer Books
3 books 2021–2024
1

Lies of Omission

Lies of Omission is an essential installment in the Publication Order of Hanneke Bauer Books series, delivering the tension and character depth that fans of Kathleen Ernst have come to expect.

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2021
2

The Solace of Stars

Readers dive deeper into the world of Publication Order of Hanneke Bauer Books with The Solace of Stars, another outstanding contribution from Kathleen Ernst.

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2023
3

A Most Perilous Journey

A Most Perilous Journey continues the Publication Order of Hanneke Bauer Books story arc with Kathleen Ernst's signature blend of plot twists and unforgettable characters.

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2024
Publication Order of White Mane Kids Books
4 books 1996–2003
1

The Night Riders of Harpers Ferry

The Night Riders of Harpers Ferry is an essential installment in the Publication Order of White Mane Kids Books series, delivering the tension and character depth that fans of Kathleen Ernst have come to expect.

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1996
2

The Bravest Girl in Sharpsburg

Readers dive deeper into the world of Publication Order of White Mane Kids Books with The Bravest Girl in Sharpsburg, another outstanding contribution from Kathleen Ernst.

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1997
3

Retreat from Gettysburg

Retreat from Gettysburg continues the Publication Order of White Mane Kids Books story arc with Kathleen Ernst's signature blend of plot twists and unforgettable characters.

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2000
4

Ghosts of Vicksburg

Readers dive deeper into the world of Publication Order of White Mane Kids Books with Ghosts of Vicksburg, another outstanding contribution from Kathleen Ernst.

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2003
Publication Order of American Girls: Caroline Books
9 books 2012–2015
1

Meet Caroline

Readers dive deeper into the world of Publication Order of American Girls: Caroline Books with Meet Caroline, another outstanding contribution from Kathleen Ernst.

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2012
2

Caroline's Secret Message

Caroline's Secret Message continues the Publication Order of American Girls: Caroline Books story arc with Kathleen Ernst's signature blend of plot twists and unforgettable characters.

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2012
3

A Surprise for Caroline

Readers dive deeper into the world of Publication Order of American Girls: Caroline Books with A Surprise for Caroline, another outstanding contribution from Kathleen Ernst.

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2012
4

Caroline Takes a Chance

Caroline Takes a Chance is an essential installment in the Publication Order of American Girls: Caroline Books series, delivering the tension and character depth that fans of Kathleen Ernst have come to expect.

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2012
5

Caroline's Battle

Conflict and courage define Caroline's Battle, an action-packed entry in the Publication Order of American Girls: Caroline Books series by Kathleen Ernst that puts the heroes through their toughest challenges yet.

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2012
6

Changes for Caroline

Readers dive deeper into the world of Publication Order of American Girls: Caroline Books with Changes for Caroline, another outstanding contribution from Kathleen Ernst.

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2012
7

Traitor in the Shipyard

Traitor in the Shipyard is an essential installment in the Publication Order of American Girls: Caroline Books series, delivering the tension and character depth that fans of Kathleen Ernst have come to expect.

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2013
8

Catch the Wind

Catch the Wind continues the Publication Order of American Girls: Caroline Books story arc with Kathleen Ernst's signature blend of plot twists and unforgettable characters.

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2014
9

The Smuggler's Secrets

Readers dive deeper into the world of Publication Order of American Girls: Caroline Books with The Smuggler's Secrets, another outstanding contribution from Kathleen Ernst.

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2015
Publication Order of American Girl: History Mysteries Books
3 books 1999–2004
1

Trouble at Fort Lapointe

Trouble at Fort Lapointe continues the Publication Order of American Girl: History Mysteries Books story arc with Kathleen Ernst's signature blend of plot twists and unforgettable characters.

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1999
2

Whistler in the Dark

Whistler in the Dark is an essential installment in the Publication Order of American Girl: History Mysteries Books series, delivering the tension and character depth that fans of Kathleen Ernst have come to expect.

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2002
3

Betrayal at Cross Creek

Readers dive deeper into the world of Publication Order of American Girl: History Mysteries Books with Betrayal at Cross Creek, another outstanding contribution from Kathleen Ernst.

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2004
Publication Order of Standalone Novels
3 books 2006–2025
1

Highland Fling

Readers dive deeper into the world of Publication Order of Standalone Novels with Highland Fling, another outstanding contribution from Kathleen Ernst.

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2006
2

Hearts of Stone

Hearts of Stone explores the depths of love and connection in this compelling entry of the Publication Order of Standalone Novels series by Kathleen Ernst.

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2006
3

Between These Rivers

Readers dive deeper into the world of Publication Order of Standalone Novels with Between These Rivers, another outstanding contribution from Kathleen Ernst.

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2025
Publication Order of Non-Fiction Books
2 books 1999–2015
1

Too Afraid to Cry

Readers dive deeper into the world of Publication Order of Non-Fiction Books with Too Afraid to Cry, another outstanding contribution from Kathleen Ernst.

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1999
2

A Settler's Year: Pioneer Life Through the Seasons

A Settler's Year: Pioneer Life Through the Seasons continues the Publication Order of Non-Fiction Books story arc with Kathleen Ernst's signature blend of plot twists and unforgettable characters.

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2015
Publication Order of American Girl: Felicity Books
1 books 2017–2017
1

Gunpowder and Tea Cakes

Gunpowder and Tea Cakes is an essential installment in the Publication Order of American Girl: Felicity Books series, delivering the tension and character depth that fans of Kathleen Ernst have come to expect.

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2017
Publication Order of American Girl: Kirsten Books
1 books 2008–2008
1

The Runaway Friend: A Kirsten Mystery

The Runaway Friend: A Kirsten Mystery is an essential installment in the Publication Order of American Girl: Kirsten Books series, delivering the tension and character depth that fans of Kathleen Ernst have come to expect.

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2008
Publication Order of American Girl: Josefina Books
1 books 2006–2006
1

Secrets in the Hills

Readers dive deeper into the world of Publication Order of American Girl: Josefina Books with Secrets in the Hills, another outstanding contribution from Kathleen Ernst.

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2006
Publication Order of American Girl: Kit Books
2 books 2005–2007
1

Danger at the Zoo

Danger at the Zoo continues the Publication Order of American Girl: Kit Books story arc with Kathleen Ernst's signature blend of plot twists and unforgettable characters.

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2005
2

Midnight in Lonesome Hollow

Midnight in Lonesome Hollow continues the Publication Order of American Girl: Kit Books story arc with Kathleen Ernst's signature blend of plot twists and unforgettable characters.

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2007
Publication Order of American Girl: Molly Books
1 books 2009–2009
1

Clues in the Shadows

Readers dive deeper into the world of Publication Order of American Girl: Molly Books with Clues in the Shadows, another outstanding contribution from Kathleen Ernst.

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2009

? Frequently Asked Questions

Who is Kathleen Ernst?

Kathleen Ernst is a bestselling author known for 12 book series containing over 41 books. Popular series include Publication Order of Chloe Ellefson Books, Publication Order of Hanneke Bauer Books, Publication Order of White Mane Kids Books. Their work spans multiple genres and has captivated millions of readers worldwide.

What is the best Kathleen Ernst series to start with?

For readers new to Kathleen Ernst's work, the Publication Order of Chloe Ellefson Books series is the ideal entry point. It showcases the author's signature style and contains 11 books. Begin with Old World Murder to start from the very beginning.

How many books has Kathleen Ernst written?

Kathleen Ernst has written over 41 books across 12 series. This prolific output covers multiple genres, making them one of the most versatile authors in contemporary fiction.

Should I read Kathleen Ernst books in order?

Yes, reading Kathleen Ernst'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 Kathleen Ernst write in?

Kathleen Ernst writes primarily in fiction. With 12 series across 41 books, the author has explored a wide range of themes and storytelling approaches throughout their career.

Are Kathleen Ernst's books standalone or must they be read as a series?

Most of Kathleen Ernst'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 Kathleen Ernst's most popular book?

Based on reader reviews and sales data, Kathleen Ernst's most celebrated works come from the Publication Order of Chloe Ellefson Books series. The first book, Old World Murder, is widely considered the ideal starting point and consistently receives outstanding reader ratings.