🎯 Where Should I Start?
ⓘ About Keith Laumer
About Keith Laumer Keith Laumer was a highly acclaimed American science-fiction writer who gained recognition for his memorable characters and storylines. His writing style was often humorous and entertaining, making his stories a joy to read. Laumer’s skill for crafting protagonists was evident in his series such as Bolo and Retief. His Bolo series followed the evolution of powerful tanks that eventually become sentient through centuries of warfare. His Retief series focused on the adventures of a spacefaring diplomat who often had to face the bureaucracy and failures of characters like Ambassador Grossblunder. Laumer’s own experiences in the U.S. Air Force and U.S. Foreign Service likely inspired his writing. Rising to prominence with the Publication Order of Retief Books series, Keith Laumer 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 Keith Laumer
Bolo
Bolo is an essential installment in the Publication Order of Bolo Books series, delivering the tension and character depth that fans of Keith Laumer have come to expect.
Rogue Bolo
Readers dive deeper into the world of Publication Order of Bolo Books with Rogue Bolo, another outstanding contribution from Keith Laumer.
The Stars Must Wait
The Stars Must Wait is an essential installment in the Publication Order of Bolo Books series, delivering the tension and character depth that fans of Keith Laumer have come to expect.
The Unconquerable
The Unconquerable continues the Publication Order of Bolo Books story arc with Keith Laumer's signature blend of plot twists and unforgettable characters.
Bolo Brigade
Readers dive deeper into the world of Publication Order of Bolo Books with Bolo Brigade, another outstanding contribution from Keith Laumer.
Bolo Rising
Readers dive deeper into the world of Publication Order of Bolo Books with Bolo Rising, another outstanding contribution from Keith Laumer.
Their Finest Hour
Their Finest Hour continues the Publication Order of Bolo Books story arc with Keith Laumer's signature blend of plot twists and unforgettable characters.
Worlds of the Imperium
Worlds of the Imperium continues the Publication Order of Imperium Books story arc with Keith Laumer's signature blend of plot twists and unforgettable characters.
The Other Side of Time
The Other Side of Time continues the Publication Order of Imperium Books story arc with Keith Laumer's signature blend of plot twists and unforgettable characters.
Assignment in Nowhere
Assignment in Nowhere continues the Publication Order of Imperium Books story arc with Keith Laumer's signature blend of plot twists and unforgettable characters.
Zone Yellow
Readers dive deeper into the world of Publication Order of Imperium Books with Zone Yellow, another outstanding contribution from Keith Laumer.
The Invaders
Readers dive deeper into the world of Publication Order of The Invaders Books with The Invaders, another outstanding contribution from Keith Laumer.
Enemies From Beyond
Enemies From Beyond continues the Publication Order of The Invaders Books story arc with Keith Laumer's signature blend of plot twists and unforgettable characters.
The Time Bender
Readers dive deeper into the world of Publication Order of Lafayette O'Leary Books with The Time Bender, another outstanding contribution from Keith Laumer.
The World Shuffler
The World Shuffler is an essential installment in the Publication Order of Lafayette O'Leary Books series, delivering the tension and character depth that fans of Keith Laumer have come to expect.
The Shape Changer
The Shape Changer is an essential installment in the Publication Order of Lafayette O'Leary Books series, delivering the tension and character depth that fans of Keith Laumer have come to expect.
The Galaxy Builder
Readers dive deeper into the world of Publication Order of Lafayette O'Leary Books with The Galaxy Builder, another outstanding contribution from Keith Laumer.
Envoy to New Worlds
Readers dive deeper into the world of Publication Order of Retief Books with Envoy to New Worlds, another outstanding contribution from Keith Laumer.
Galactic Diplomat
Galactic Diplomat continues the Publication Order of Retief Books story arc with Keith Laumer's signature blend of plot twists and unforgettable characters.
Retief's War
Conflict and courage define Retief's War, an action-packed entry in the Publication Order of Retief Books series by Keith Laumer that puts the heroes through their toughest challenges yet.
Retief and the Warlords
Conflict and courage define Retief and the Warlords, an action-packed entry in the Publication Order of Retief Books series by Keith Laumer that puts the heroes through their toughest challenges yet.
Ambassador to Space
Readers dive deeper into the world of Publication Order of Retief Books with Ambassador to Space, another outstanding contribution from Keith Laumer.
Retief of the CDT
Retief of the CDT continues the Publication Order of Retief Books story arc with Keith Laumer's signature blend of plot twists and unforgettable characters.
Retief's Ransom
Retief's Ransom is an essential installment in the Publication Order of Retief Books series, delivering the tension and character depth that fans of Keith Laumer have come to expect.
Emissary To The Stars
Readers dive deeper into the world of Publication Order of Retief Books with Emissary To The Stars, another outstanding contribution from Keith Laumer.
Retief At Large
Retief At Large is an essential installment in the Publication Order of Retief Books series, delivering the tension and character depth that fans of Keith Laumer have come to expect.
Retief Unbound
Retief Unbound is an essential installment in the Publication Order of Retief Books series, delivering the tension and character depth that fans of Keith Laumer have come to expect.
Diplomat at Arms
Diplomat at Arms continues the Publication Order of Retief Books story arc with Keith Laumer's signature blend of plot twists and unforgettable characters.
Retief to the Rescue
Retief to the Rescue continues the Publication Order of Retief Books story arc with Keith Laumer's signature blend of plot twists and unforgettable characters.
The Return of Retief
The Return of Retief continues the Publication Order of Retief Books story arc with Keith Laumer's signature blend of plot twists and unforgettable characters.
Retief and the Pangalactic Pageant of Pulchritude
Retief and the Pangalactic Pageant of Pulchritude continues the Publication Order of Retief Books story arc with Keith Laumer's signature blend of plot twists and unforgettable characters.
Retief in the Ruins
Retief in the Ruins continues the Publication Order of Retief Books story arc with Keith Laumer's signature blend of plot twists and unforgettable characters.
Reward for Retief
Conflict and courage define Reward for Retief, an action-packed entry in the Publication Order of Retief Books series by Keith Laumer that puts the heroes through their toughest challenges yet.
Retief and the Rascals
Retief and the Rascals is an essential installment in the Publication Order of Retief Books series, delivering the tension and character depth that fans of Keith Laumer have come to expect.
Retief!
Retief! continues the Publication Order of Retief Books story arc with Keith Laumer's signature blend of plot twists and unforgettable characters.
The Yillian Way
Readers dive deeper into the world of Publication Order of Retief Books with The Yillian Way, another outstanding contribution from Keith Laumer.
The Frozen Planet
Readers dive deeper into the world of Publication Order of Retief Books with The Frozen Planet, another outstanding contribution from Keith Laumer.
Retief of the Red-Tape Mountain
Readers dive deeper into the world of Publication Order of Retief Books with Retief of the Red-Tape Mountain, another outstanding contribution from Keith Laumer.
Retief: the Dirty Dozen
Readers dive deeper into the world of Publication Order of Retief Books with Retief: the Dirty Dozen, another outstanding contribution from Keith Laumer.
The Madman from Earth
Readers dive deeper into the world of Publication Order of Retief Books with The Madman from Earth, another outstanding contribution from Keith Laumer.
The Desert and the Stars
Readers dive deeper into the world of Publication Order of Retief Books with The Desert and the Stars, another outstanding contribution from Keith Laumer.
Cultural Exchange
Cultural Exchange continues the Publication Order of Retief Books story arc with Keith Laumer's signature blend of plot twists and unforgettable characters.
Mightiest Qorn
Mightiest Qorn continues the Publication Order of Retief Books story arc with Keith Laumer's signature blend of plot twists and unforgettable characters.
The Governor of Glave
Readers dive deeper into the world of Publication Order of Retief Books with The Governor of Glave, another outstanding contribution from Keith Laumer.
Aide Memoire
Aide Memoire continues the Publication Order of Retief Books story arc with Keith Laumer's signature blend of plot twists and unforgettable characters.
Saline Solution
Saline Solution is an essential installment in the Publication Order of Retief Books series, delivering the tension and character depth that fans of Keith Laumer have come to expect.
The Star-Sent Knaves
The Star-Sent Knaves continues the Publication Order of Retief Books story arc with Keith Laumer's signature blend of plot twists and unforgettable characters.
Time Trap
Time Trap continues the Publication Order of Time Trap Books story arc with Keith Laumer's signature blend of plot twists and unforgettable characters.
Back to the Time Trap
Back to the Time Trap continues the Publication Order of Time Trap Books story arc with Keith Laumer's signature blend of plot twists and unforgettable characters.
A Trace of Memory
A Trace of Memory is an essential installment in the Publication Order of Standalone Novels series, delivering the tension and character depth that fans of Keith Laumer have come to expect.
Plague of Demons
Plague of Demons continues the Publication Order of Standalone Novels story arc with Keith Laumer's signature blend of plot twists and unforgettable characters.
The Great Time Machine Hoax / A Hoax in Time
The Great Time Machine Hoax / A Hoax in Time is an essential installment in the Publication Order of Standalone Novels series, delivering the tension and character depth that fans of Keith Laumer have come to expect.
The Monitors
The Monitors is an essential installment in the Publication Order of Standalone Novels series, delivering the tension and character depth that fans of Keith Laumer have come to expect.
Catastrophe Planet
Readers dive deeper into the world of Publication Order of Standalone Novels with Catastrophe Planet, another outstanding contribution from Keith Laumer.
Earthblood
A gripping mystery unfolds in Earthblood as the investigation takes deadly new turns. This installment of the Publication Order of Standalone Novels series showcases Keith Laumer's mastery of suspense.
Galactic Odyssey
Readers dive deeper into the world of Publication Order of Standalone Novels with Galactic Odyssey, another outstanding contribution from Keith Laumer.
The Long Twilight
The Long Twilight is an essential installment in the Publication Order of Standalone Novels series, delivering the tension and character depth that fans of Keith Laumer have come to expect.
The Day Before Forever
Readers dive deeper into the world of Publication Order of Standalone Novels with The Day Before Forever, another outstanding contribution from Keith Laumer.
The House in November
The House in November continues the Publication Order of Standalone Novels story arc with Keith Laumer's signature blend of plot twists and unforgettable characters.
Dinosaur Beach
Dinosaur Beach is an essential installment in the Publication Order of Standalone Novels series, delivering the tension and character depth that fans of Keith Laumer have come to expect.
The Infinite Cage
Readers dive deeper into the world of Publication Order of Standalone Novels with The Infinite Cage, another outstanding contribution from Keith Laumer.
Night of Delusions
Readers dive deeper into the world of Publication Order of Standalone Novels with Night of Delusions, another outstanding contribution from Keith Laumer.
Glory Game
Glory Game is an essential installment in the Publication Order of Standalone Novels series, delivering the tension and character depth that fans of Keith Laumer have come to expect.
Fat Chance / Deadfall
A gripping mystery unfolds in Fat Chance / Deadfall as the investigation takes deadly new turns. This installment of the Publication Order of Standalone Novels series showcases Keith Laumer's mastery of suspense.
The Star Treasure
The Star Treasure continues the Publication Order of Standalone Novels story arc with Keith Laumer's signature blend of plot twists and unforgettable characters.
Night of Decisions
Night of Decisions continues the Publication Order of Standalone Novels story arc with Keith Laumer's signature blend of plot twists and unforgettable characters.
The Ultimax Man
The Ultimax Man continues the Publication Order of Standalone Novels story arc with Keith Laumer's signature blend of plot twists and unforgettable characters.
Star Colony
Readers dive deeper into the world of Publication Order of Standalone Novels with Star Colony, another outstanding contribution from Keith Laumer.
The Breaking Earth
The Breaking Earth is an essential installment in the Publication Order of Standalone Novels series, delivering the tension and character depth that fans of Keith Laumer have come to expect.
End as a Hero
Readers dive deeper into the world of Publication Order of Standalone Novels with End as a Hero, another outstanding contribution from Keith Laumer.
Judson's Eden
Judson's Eden continues the Publication Order of Standalone Novels story arc with Keith Laumer's signature blend of plot twists and unforgettable characters.
Cocoon
Cocoon continues the Publication Order of Short Stories/Novellas story arc with Keith Laumer's signature blend of plot twists and unforgettable characters.
It Could Be Anything
It Could Be Anything is an essential installment in the Publication Order of Short Stories/Novellas series, delivering the tension and character depth that fans of Keith Laumer have come to expect.
Doorstep
Doorstep continues the Publication Order of Short Stories/Novellas story arc with Keith Laumer's signature blend of plot twists and unforgettable characters.
The Walls
The Walls continues the Publication Order of Short Stories/Novellas story arc with Keith Laumer's signature blend of plot twists and unforgettable characters.
The Night of the Trolls
The Night of the Trolls is an essential installment in the Publication Order of Short Stories/Novellas series, delivering the tension and character depth that fans of Keith Laumer have come to expect.
The Long-Remembered Thunder
The Long-Remembered Thunder continues the Publication Order of Short Stories/Novellas story arc with Keith Laumer's signature blend of plot twists and unforgettable characters.
A BAD DAY FOR VERMIN
Readers dive deeper into the world of Publication Order of Short Stories/Novellas with A BAD DAY FOR VERMIN, another outstanding contribution from Keith Laumer.
Greylorn
Greylorn is an essential installment in the Publication Order of Collections series, delivering the tension and character depth that fans of Keith Laumer have come to expect.
A Plague of Demons & Other Stories
A Plague of Demons & Other Stories continues the Publication Order of Collections story arc with Keith Laumer's signature blend of plot twists and unforgettable characters.
Nine By Laumer
Nine By Laumer is an essential installment in the Publication Order of Collections series, delivering the tension and character depth that fans of Keith Laumer have come to expect.
Planet Run
Readers dive deeper into the world of Publication Order of Collections with Planet Run, another outstanding contribution from Keith Laumer.
Once There Was A Giant
Readers dive deeper into the world of Publication Order of Collections with Once There Was A Giant, another outstanding contribution from Keith Laumer.
It's A Mad, Mad, Mad Galaxy
It's A Mad, Mad, Mad Galaxy is an essential installment in the Publication Order of Collections series, delivering the tension and character depth that fans of Keith Laumer have come to expect.
Knight of Delusions
Knight of Delusions is an essential installment in the Publication Order of Collections series, delivering the tension and character depth that fans of Keith Laumer have come to expect.
The Big Show & Other Tales
The Big Show & Other Tales continues the Publication Order of Collections story arc with Keith Laumer's signature blend of plot twists and unforgettable characters.
Timetracks
Readers dive deeper into the world of Publication Order of Collections with Timetracks, another outstanding contribution from Keith Laumer.
The Undefeated
Readers dive deeper into the world of Publication Order of Collections with The Undefeated, another outstanding contribution from Keith Laumer.
Chrestomathy
Readers dive deeper into the world of Publication Order of Collections with Chrestomathy, another outstanding contribution from Keith Laumer.
Alien Minds
Readers dive deeper into the world of Publication Order of Collections with Alien Minds, another outstanding contribution from Keith Laumer.
Future Imperfect
Future Imperfect continues the Publication Order of Collections story arc with Keith Laumer's signature blend of plot twists and unforgettable characters.
Legions of Space
Legions of Space is an essential installment in the Publication Order of Collections series, delivering the tension and character depth that fans of Keith Laumer have come to expect.
Earthblood and Other Stories
A gripping mystery unfolds in Earthblood and Other Stories as the investigation takes deadly new turns. This installment of the Publication Order of Collections series showcases Keith Laumer's mastery of suspense.
The Long Twilight and Other Stories
Readers dive deeper into the world of Publication Order of Collections with The Long Twilight and Other Stories, another outstanding contribution from Keith Laumer.
Beyond the Moons of Neptune
Beyond the Moons of Neptune continues the Publication Order of Collections story arc with Keith Laumer's signature blend of plot twists and unforgettable characters.
Gambler's World
Gambler's World continues the Publication Order of Collections story arc with Keith Laumer's signature blend of plot twists and unforgettable characters.
The Best of Keith Laumer: Volume 1
The Best of Keith Laumer: Volume 1 is an essential installment in the Publication Order of Collections series, delivering the tension and character depth that fans of Keith Laumer have come to expect.
The Gold Bomb
The Gold Bomb is an essential installment in the Publication Order of The Avengers Books series, delivering the tension and character depth that fans of Keith Laumer have come to expect.
The Avengers 5: The Afrit Affair
The Avengers 5: The Afrit Affair is an essential installment in the Publication Order of The Avengers Books series, delivering the tension and character depth that fans of Keith Laumer have come to expect.
The Drowned Queen
Readers dive deeper into the world of Publication Order of The Avengers Books with The Drowned Queen, another outstanding contribution from Keith Laumer.
The Eighth Galaxy Reader
Readers dive deeper into the world of Publication Order of Anthologies with The Eighth Galaxy Reader, another outstanding contribution from Keith Laumer.
Dangerous Visions
Dangerous Visions is an essential installment in the Publication Order of Anthologies series, delivering the tension and character depth that fans of Keith Laumer have come to expect.
Dangerous Visions 3
Readers dive deeper into the world of Publication Order of Anthologies with Dangerous Visions 3, another outstanding contribution from Keith Laumer.
The Second If Reader of Science Fiction
The Second If Reader of Science Fiction is an essential installment in the Publication Order of Anthologies series, delivering the tension and character depth that fans of Keith Laumer have come to expect.
Tales of Time and Space
Tales of Time and Space is an essential installment in the Publication Order of Anthologies series, delivering the tension and character depth that fans of Keith Laumer have come to expect.
Analog 7
Analog 7 is an essential installment in the Publication Order of Anthologies series, delivering the tension and character depth that fans of Keith Laumer have come to expect.
Analog 6
Analog 6 continues the Publication Order of Anthologies story arc with Keith Laumer's signature blend of plot twists and unforgettable characters.
Alchemy and Academe
Readers dive deeper into the world of Publication Order of Anthologies with Alchemy and Academe, another outstanding contribution from Keith Laumer.
Partners in Wonder
Readers dive deeper into the world of Publication Order of Anthologies with Partners in Wonder, another outstanding contribution from Keith Laumer.
Nebula Awards 6
Conflict and courage define Nebula Awards 6, an action-packed entry in the Publication Order of Anthologies series by Keith Laumer that puts the heroes through their toughest challenges yet.
The Best from Amazing Stories
The Best from Amazing Stories continues the Publication Order of Anthologies story arc with Keith Laumer's signature blend of plot twists and unforgettable characters.
Combat SF
Readers dive deeper into the world of Publication Order of Anthologies with Combat SF, another outstanding contribution from Keith Laumer.
The Infinite Arena
The Infinite Arena continues the Publication Order of Anthologies story arc with Keith Laumer's signature blend of plot twists and unforgettable characters.
The Great Science Fiction Series
The Great Science Fiction Series continues the Publication Order of Anthologies story arc with Keith Laumer's signature blend of plot twists and unforgettable characters.
Young Extraterrestrials
Readers dive deeper into the world of Publication Order of Anthologies with Young Extraterrestrials, another outstanding contribution from Keith Laumer.
Extraterrestrials
Extraterrestrials continues the Publication Order of Anthologies story arc with Keith Laumer's signature blend of plot twists and unforgettable characters.
Supertanks
Readers dive deeper into the world of Publication Order of Anthologies with Supertanks, another outstanding contribution from Keith Laumer.
Battlefields Beyond Tomorrow
Conflict and courage define Battlefields Beyond Tomorrow, an action-packed entry in the Publication Order of Anthologies series by Keith Laumer that puts the heroes through their toughest challenges yet.
Robot Warriors
Conflict and courage define Robot Warriors, an action-packed entry in the Publication Order of Anthologies series by Keith Laumer that puts the heroes through their toughest challenges yet.
Honor of the Regiment
Honor of the Regiment is an essential installment in the Publication Order of Anthologies series, delivering the tension and character depth that fans of Keith Laumer have come to expect.
The Triumphant
The Triumphant is an essential installment in the Publication Order of Anthologies series, delivering the tension and character depth that fans of Keith Laumer have come to expect.
Last Stand
Readers dive deeper into the world of Publication Order of Anthologies with Last Stand, another outstanding contribution from Keith Laumer.
Dangerous Vegetables
Readers dive deeper into the world of Publication Order of Anthologies with Dangerous Vegetables, another outstanding contribution from Keith Laumer.
Old Guard
Old Guard continues the Publication Order of Anthologies story arc with Keith Laumer's signature blend of plot twists and unforgettable characters.
Cold Steel
Cold Steel continues the Publication Order of Anthologies story arc with Keith Laumer's signature blend of plot twists and unforgettable characters.
The World Turned Upside Down
The World Turned Upside Down continues the Publication Order of Anthologies story arc with Keith Laumer's signature blend of plot twists and unforgettable characters.
Science Fiction Gems, Volume Eight, Keith Laumer and Others
Readers dive deeper into the world of Publication Order of Anthologies with Science Fiction Gems, Volume Eight, Keith Laumer and Others, another outstanding contribution from Keith Laumer.
The 12th Science Fiction MEGAPACK®
Readers dive deeper into the world of Publication Order of Anthologies with The 12th Science Fiction MEGAPACK®, another outstanding contribution from Keith Laumer.
? Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Keith Laumer?
Keith Laumer is a bestselling author known for 11 book series containing over 128 books. Popular series include Publication Order of Bolo Books, Publication Order of Imperium Books, Publication Order of The Invaders Books. Their work spans multiple genres and has captivated millions of readers worldwide.
What is the best Keith Laumer series to start with?
For readers new to Keith Laumer's work, the Publication Order of Retief Books series is the ideal entry point. It showcases the author's signature style and contains 30 books. Begin with Envoy to New Worlds to start from the very beginning.
How many books has Keith Laumer written?
Keith Laumer has written over 128 books across 11 series. This prolific output covers multiple genres, making them one of the most versatile authors in contemporary fiction.
Should I read Keith Laumer books in order?
Yes, reading Keith Laumer'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 Keith Laumer write in?
Keith Laumer writes primarily in fiction. With 11 series across 128 books, the author has explored a wide range of themes and storytelling approaches throughout their career.
Are Keith Laumer's books standalone or must they be read as a series?
Most of Keith Laumer'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 Keith Laumer's most popular book?
Based on reader reviews and sales data, Keith Laumer's most celebrated works come from the Publication Order of Retief Books series. The first book, Envoy to New Worlds, is widely considered the ideal starting point and consistently receives outstanding reader ratings.