P

Peter Lovesey

Bestselling Author • 13 Series • 87 Books

13
Series
87
Books
13
Active

🎯 Where Should I Start?

Best Starting Point
Publication Order of Anthologies
Start with: The Perfect Murder (1991)
Popular Choice
Publication Order of Albert Edward, Prince of Wales Books
Start with: Bertie and the Tinman (1987)
Popular Choice
Publication Order of Inspector Henrietta Mallin Books
Start with: The Circle (2005)

About Peter Lovesey

Peter Lovesey was one of the most well known British author of the contemporary detective and historical novels as well as short stories. He passed on April 10, 2025. Hewas specifically famous for developing the characters of Sergeant Cribb and Peter Diamond. Cribb is described as a police detective from the Victorian era living in London, while Peter is shown as a modern day police detective who lives in Bath. Author Lovesey has also written some of his books under the pseudonym Peter Lear. He was born in the year 1936 in Whitton, Middlesex, United Kingdom. His schooling was completed from the Hampton Grammar School. After that, author Lovesey joined the Reading University in the year 1955. Rising to prominence with the Publication Order of Anthologies series, Peter Lovesey 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 Peter Lovesey

Publication Order of Sergeant Cribb Books
8 books 1970–1978
1

Wobble to Death

A gripping mystery unfolds in Wobble to Death as the investigation takes deadly new turns. This installment of the Publication Order of Sergeant Cribb Books series showcases Peter Lovesey's mastery of suspense.

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1970
2

The Detective Wore Silk Drawers

The investigation intensifies in The Detective Wore Silk Drawers, as this installment of the Publication Order of Sergeant Cribb Books series takes readers deeper into the criminal underworld of Peter Lovesey's creation.

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1970
3

Abracadaver

Readers dive deeper into the world of Publication Order of Sergeant Cribb Books with Abracadaver, another outstanding contribution from Peter Lovesey.

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1972
4

Mad Hatter's Holiday

Readers dive deeper into the world of Publication Order of Sergeant Cribb Books with Mad Hatter's Holiday, another outstanding contribution from Peter Lovesey.

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1973
5

The Tick of Death / Invitation to a Dynamite Party

A gripping mystery unfolds in The Tick of Death / Invitation to a Dynamite Party as the investigation takes deadly new turns. This installment of the Publication Order of Sergeant Cribb Books series showcases Peter Lovesey's mastery of suspense.

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1974
6

A Case of Spirits

A Case of Spirits continues the Publication Order of Sergeant Cribb Books story arc with Peter Lovesey's signature blend of plot twists and unforgettable characters.

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1975
7

Swing, Swing Together

Swing, Swing Together continues the Publication Order of Sergeant Cribb Books story arc with Peter Lovesey's signature blend of plot twists and unforgettable characters.

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1976
8

Waxwork

Waxwork is an essential installment in the Publication Order of Sergeant Cribb Books series, delivering the tension and character depth that fans of Peter Lovesey have come to expect.

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1978
Publication Order of Albert Edward, Prince of Wales Books
3 books 1987–1993
1

Bertie and the Tinman

Bertie and the Tinman is an essential installment in the Publication Order of Albert Edward, Prince of Wales Books series, delivering the tension and character depth that fans of Peter Lovesey have come to expect.

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1987
2

Bertie and the Seven Bodies

Bertie and the Seven Bodies is an essential installment in the Publication Order of Albert Edward, Prince of Wales Books series, delivering the tension and character depth that fans of Peter Lovesey have come to expect.

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1990
3

Bertie and the Crime of Passion

The investigation intensifies in Bertie and the Crime of Passion, as this installment of the Publication Order of Albert Edward, Prince of Wales Books series takes readers deeper into the criminal underworld of Peter Lovesey's creation.

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1993
Publication Order of Inspector Henrietta Mallin Books
2 books 2005–2008
1

The Circle

The Circle continues the Publication Order of Inspector Henrietta Mallin Books story arc with Peter Lovesey's signature blend of plot twists and unforgettable characters.

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2005
2

The Headhunters

Readers dive deeper into the world of Publication Order of Inspector Henrietta Mallin Books with The Headhunters, another outstanding contribution from Peter Lovesey.

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2008
Publication Order of Peter Diamond Books
22 books 1991–2024
1

The Last Detective

The investigation intensifies in The Last Detective, as this installment of the Publication Order of Peter Diamond Books series takes readers deeper into the criminal underworld of Peter Lovesey's creation.

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1991
2

Diamond Solitaire

Diamond Solitaire is an essential installment in the Publication Order of Peter Diamond Books series, delivering the tension and character depth that fans of Peter Lovesey have come to expect.

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1992
3

The Summons

The Summons is an essential installment in the Publication Order of Peter Diamond Books series, delivering the tension and character depth that fans of Peter Lovesey have come to expect.

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1995
4

Bloodhounds

A gripping mystery unfolds in Bloodhounds as the investigation takes deadly new turns. This installment of the Publication Order of Peter Diamond Books series showcases Peter Lovesey's mastery of suspense.

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1996
5

Upon a Dark Night

Readers dive deeper into the world of Publication Order of Peter Diamond Books with Upon a Dark Night, another outstanding contribution from Peter Lovesey.

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1997
6

The Vault

Readers dive deeper into the world of Publication Order of Peter Diamond Books with The Vault, another outstanding contribution from Peter Lovesey.

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1999
7

Diamond Dust

Readers dive deeper into the world of Publication Order of Peter Diamond Books with Diamond Dust, another outstanding contribution from Peter Lovesey.

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2002
8

The House Sitter

The House Sitter is an essential installment in the Publication Order of Peter Diamond Books series, delivering the tension and character depth that fans of Peter Lovesey have come to expect.

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2003
9

The Secret Hangman

The Secret Hangman is an essential installment in the Publication Order of Peter Diamond Books series, delivering the tension and character depth that fans of Peter Lovesey have come to expect.

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2007
10

Skeleton Hill

Readers dive deeper into the world of Publication Order of Peter Diamond Books with Skeleton Hill, another outstanding contribution from Peter Lovesey.

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2009
11

Stagestruck

Stagestruck is an essential installment in the Publication Order of Peter Diamond Books series, delivering the tension and character depth that fans of Peter Lovesey have come to expect.

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2011
12

Cop to Corpse

A gripping mystery unfolds in Cop to Corpse as the investigation takes deadly new turns. This installment of the Publication Order of Peter Diamond Books series showcases Peter Lovesey's mastery of suspense.

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2012
13

The Tooth Tattoo

The Tooth Tattoo is an essential installment in the Publication Order of Peter Diamond Books series, delivering the tension and character depth that fans of Peter Lovesey have come to expect.

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2013
14

The Stone Wife

Readers dive deeper into the world of Publication Order of Peter Diamond Books with The Stone Wife, another outstanding contribution from Peter Lovesey.

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2014
15

Down Among the Dead Men

A gripping mystery unfolds in Down Among the Dead Men as the investigation takes deadly new turns. This installment of the Publication Order of Peter Diamond Books series showcases Peter Lovesey's mastery of suspense.

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2015
16

Another One Goes Tonight

Readers dive deeper into the world of Publication Order of Peter Diamond Books with Another One Goes Tonight, another outstanding contribution from Peter Lovesey.

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2016
17

Beau Death

A gripping mystery unfolds in Beau Death as the investigation takes deadly new turns. This installment of the Publication Order of Peter Diamond Books series showcases Peter Lovesey's mastery of suspense.

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2017
18

Killing with Confetti

A gripping mystery unfolds in Killing with Confetti as the investigation takes deadly new turns. This installment of the Publication Order of Peter Diamond Books series showcases Peter Lovesey's mastery of suspense.

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2019
19

The Finisher

Readers dive deeper into the world of Publication Order of Peter Diamond Books with The Finisher, another outstanding contribution from Peter Lovesey.

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2020
20

Diamond and the Eye

Diamond and the Eye continues the Publication Order of Peter Diamond Books story arc with Peter Lovesey's signature blend of plot twists and unforgettable characters.

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2021
21

Showstopper

Showstopper continues the Publication Order of Peter Diamond Books story arc with Peter Lovesey's signature blend of plot twists and unforgettable characters.

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2022
22

Against the Grain

Readers dive deeper into the world of Publication Order of Peter Diamond Books with Against the Grain, another outstanding contribution from Peter Lovesey.

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2024
Publication Order of Standalone Novels
8 books 1977–2001
1

Goldengirl

Goldengirl is an essential installment in the Publication Order of Standalone Novels series, delivering the tension and character depth that fans of Peter Lovesey have come to expect.

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1977
2

Spider Girl / In Suspense

Spider Girl / In Suspense continues the Publication Order of Standalone Novels story arc with Peter Lovesey's signature blend of plot twists and unforgettable characters.

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1980
3

The False Inspector Dew

Readers dive deeper into the world of Publication Order of Standalone Novels with The False Inspector Dew, another outstanding contribution from Peter Lovesey.

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1981
4

Keystone

Readers dive deeper into the world of Publication Order of Standalone Novels with Keystone, another outstanding contribution from Peter Lovesey.

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1984
5

Rough Cider

Rough Cider is an essential installment in the Publication Order of Standalone Novels series, delivering the tension and character depth that fans of Peter Lovesey have come to expect.

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1986
6

The Secret of Spandau

The Secret of Spandau is an essential installment in the Publication Order of Standalone Novels series, delivering the tension and character depth that fans of Peter Lovesey have come to expect.

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1986
7

On the Edge / Dead Gorgeous

A gripping mystery unfolds in On the Edge / Dead Gorgeous as the investigation takes deadly new turns. This installment of the Publication Order of Standalone Novels series showcases Peter Lovesey's mastery of suspense.

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1989
8

The Reaper

The Reaper is an essential installment in the Publication Order of Standalone Novels series, delivering the tension and character depth that fans of Peter Lovesey have come to expect.

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2001
Publication Order of Short Stories/Novellas
3 books 1985–1996
1

Vandals

Readers dive deeper into the world of Publication Order of Short Stories/Novellas with Vandals, another outstanding contribution from Peter Lovesey.

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1985
2

The Crime of Miss Oyster Brown

The investigation intensifies in The Crime of Miss Oyster Brown, as this installment of the Publication Order of Short Stories/Novellas series takes readers deeper into the criminal underworld of Peter Lovesey's creation.

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1994
3

A Parrot is Forever

A Parrot is Forever is an essential installment in the Publication Order of Short Stories/Novellas series, delivering the tension and character depth that fans of Peter Lovesey have come to expect.

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1996
Publication Order of Collections
8 books 1985–2022
1

Butchers and Other Stories of Crime

The investigation intensifies in Butchers and Other Stories of Crime, as this installment of the Publication Order of Collections series takes readers deeper into the criminal underworld of Peter Lovesey's creation.

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1985
2

The Black Cabinet

The Black Cabinet is an essential installment in the Publication Order of Collections series, delivering the tension and character depth that fans of Peter Lovesey have come to expect.

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1989
3

The Crime of Miss Oyster Brown and Other Stories

The investigation intensifies in The Crime of Miss Oyster Brown and Other Stories, as this installment of the Publication Order of Collections series takes readers deeper into the criminal underworld of Peter Lovesey's creation.

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1994
4

A Dead Giveaway

A gripping mystery unfolds in A Dead Giveaway as the investigation takes deadly new turns. This installment of the Publication Order of Collections series showcases Peter Lovesey's mastery of suspense.

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1995
5

Do Not Exceed the Stated Dose

Do Not Exceed the Stated Dose continues the Publication Order of Collections story arc with Peter Lovesey's signature blend of plot twists and unforgettable characters.

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1998
6

The Sedgemoor Strangler

The Sedgemoor Strangler is an essential installment in the Publication Order of Collections series, delivering the tension and character depth that fans of Peter Lovesey have come to expect.

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1999
7

Murder on the Short List

A gripping mystery unfolds in Murder on the Short List as the investigation takes deadly new turns. This installment of the Publication Order of Collections series showcases Peter Lovesey's mastery of suspense.

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2008
8

Reader, I Buried Them & Other Stories

Reader, I Buried Them & Other Stories continues the Publication Order of Collections story arc with Peter Lovesey's signature blend of plot twists and unforgettable characters.

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2022
Publication Order of Non-Fiction Books
1 books 1968–1968
1

Five Kings of Distance

Five Kings of Distance is an essential installment in the Publication Order of Non-Fiction Books series, delivering the tension and character depth that fans of Peter Lovesey have come to expect.

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1968
Publication Order of Bibliomysteries Books
1 books 2014–2014
1

Remaindered

Readers dive deeper into the world of Publication Order of Bibliomysteries Books with Remaindered, another outstanding contribution from Peter Lovesey.

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2014
Chronological Order of Bibliomysteries Books
1 books 2014–2014
1

Remaindered

Readers dive deeper into the world of Chronological Order of Bibliomysteries Books with Remaindered, another outstanding contribution from Peter Lovesey.

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2014
Publication Order of MX New Sherlock Holmes Stories Books
2 books 2021–2021
1

Part XXV: 2021 Annual 1881-1888

Part XXV: 2021 Annual 1881-1888 is an essential installment in the Publication Order of MX New Sherlock Holmes Stories Books series, delivering the tension and character depth that fans of Peter Lovesey have come to expect.

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2021
2

Part XXVII: 2021 Annual 1898-1928

Readers dive deeper into the world of Publication Order of MX New Sherlock Holmes Stories Books with Part XXVII: 2021 Annual 1898-1928, another outstanding contribution from Peter Lovesey.

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2021
Publication Order of Mysterious Profiles Books
1 books 2024–2024
1

Peter Diamond

Peter Diamond continues the Publication Order of Mysterious Profiles Books story arc with Peter Lovesey's signature blend of plot twists and unforgettable characters.

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2024
Publication Order of Anthologies
27 books 1991–2025
1

The Perfect Murder

A gripping mystery unfolds in The Perfect Murder as the investigation takes deadly new turns. This installment of the Publication Order of Anthologies series showcases Peter Lovesey's mastery of suspense.

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1991
2

The Man Who...

The Man Who... continues the Publication Order of Anthologies story arc with Peter Lovesey's signature blend of plot twists and unforgettable characters.

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1992
3

Fifty Best Mysteries

Fifty Best Mysteries is an essential installment in the Publication Order of Anthologies series, delivering the tension and character depth that fans of Peter Lovesey have come to expect.

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1993
4

2nd Culprit

2nd Culprit continues the Publication Order of Anthologies story arc with Peter Lovesey's signature blend of plot twists and unforgettable characters.

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1993
5

The Crown Crime Companion

The investigation intensifies in The Crown Crime Companion, as this installment of the Publication Order of Anthologies series takes readers deeper into the criminal underworld of Peter Lovesey's creation.

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1995
6

Malice Domestic 5

Readers dive deeper into the world of Publication Order of Anthologies with Malice Domestic 5, another outstanding contribution from Peter Lovesey.

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1996
7

Malice Domestic 6

Malice Domestic 6 continues the Publication Order of Anthologies story arc with Peter Lovesey's signature blend of plot twists and unforgettable characters.

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1997
8

The New Adventures of Sherlock Holmes

The New Adventures of Sherlock Holmes is an essential installment in the Publication Order of Anthologies series, delivering the tension and character depth that fans of Peter Lovesey have come to expect.

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1999
9

A Century of British Mystery and Suspense

A Century of British Mystery and Suspense continues the Publication Order of Anthologies story arc with Peter Lovesey's signature blend of plot twists and unforgettable characters.

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2000
10

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 Peter Lovesey's creation.

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2000
11

Malice Domestic 10

Malice Domestic 10 continues the Publication Order of Anthologies story arc with Peter Lovesey's signature blend of plot twists and unforgettable characters.

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2001
12

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 Peter Lovesey have come to expect.

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2001
13

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 Peter Lovesey's creation.

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2002
14

Thou Shalt Not Kill

A gripping mystery unfolds in Thou Shalt Not Kill as the investigation takes deadly new turns. This installment of the Publication Order of Anthologies series showcases Peter Lovesey's mastery of suspense.

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2005
15

The Detection Collection

The Detection Collection is an essential installment in the Publication Order of Anthologies series, delivering the tension and character depth that fans of Peter Lovesey have come to expect.

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2005
16

The Verdict Of Us All

The Verdict Of Us All continues the Publication Order of Anthologies story arc with Peter Lovesey's signature blend of plot twists and unforgettable characters.

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2006
17

The Mammoth Book of Best British Crime 8

The investigation intensifies in The Mammoth Book of Best British Crime 8, as this installment of the Publication Order of Anthologies series takes readers deeper into the criminal underworld of Peter Lovesey's creation.

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2011
18

The Crooked Road, Volume 2

The Crooked Road, Volume 2 continues the Publication Order of Anthologies story arc with Peter Lovesey's signature blend of plot twists and unforgettable characters.

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2013
19

Deadly Pleasures

A gripping mystery unfolds in Deadly Pleasures as the investigation takes deadly new turns. This installment of the Publication Order of Anthologies series showcases Peter Lovesey's mastery of suspense.

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2013
20

The Sinking Admiral

Readers dive deeper into the world of Publication Order of Anthologies with The Sinking Admiral, another outstanding contribution from Peter Lovesey.

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2016
21

The Usual Santas

The Usual Santas is an essential installment in the Publication Order of Anthologies series, delivering the tension and character depth that fans of Peter Lovesey have come to expect.

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2016
22

Motives for Murder

A gripping mystery unfolds in Motives for Murder as the investigation takes deadly new turns. This installment of the Publication Order of Anthologies series showcases Peter Lovesey's mastery of suspense.

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2016
23

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 Peter Lovesey's mastery of suspense.

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2016
24

CWA Anthology of Short Stories: Mystery Tour

Readers dive deeper into the world of Publication Order of Anthologies with CWA Anthology of Short Stories: Mystery Tour, another outstanding contribution from Peter Lovesey.

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2017
25

Ellery Queen Mystery Magazine, January-February 2025

Readers dive deeper into the world of Publication Order of Anthologies with Ellery Queen Mystery Magazine, January-February 2025, another outstanding contribution from Peter Lovesey.

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2024
26

Playing Dead: Short Stories by Members of the Detection Club

A gripping mystery unfolds in Playing Dead: Short Stories by Members of the Detection Club as the investigation takes deadly new turns. This installment of the Publication Order of Anthologies series showcases Peter Lovesey's mastery of suspense.

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2025
27

Birds, Strangers and Psychos

Birds, Strangers and Psychos is an essential installment in the Publication Order of Anthologies series, delivering the tension and character depth that fans of Peter Lovesey have come to expect.

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2025

? Frequently Asked Questions

Who is Peter Lovesey?

Peter Lovesey is a bestselling author known for 13 book series containing over 87 books. Popular series include Publication Order of Sergeant Cribb Books, Publication Order of Albert Edward, Prince of Wales Books, Publication Order of Inspector Henrietta Mallin Books. Their work spans multiple genres and has captivated millions of readers worldwide.

What is the best Peter Lovesey series to start with?

For readers new to Peter Lovesey's work, the Publication Order of Anthologies series is the ideal entry point. It showcases the author's signature style and contains 27 books. Begin with The Perfect Murder to start from the very beginning.

How many books has Peter Lovesey written?

Peter Lovesey has written over 87 books across 13 series. This prolific output covers multiple genres, making them one of the most versatile authors in contemporary fiction.

Should I read Peter Lovesey books in order?

Yes, reading Peter Lovesey'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 Peter Lovesey write in?

Peter Lovesey writes primarily in fiction. With 13 series across 87 books, the author has explored a wide range of themes and storytelling approaches throughout their career.

Are Peter Lovesey's books standalone or must they be read as a series?

Most of Peter Lovesey'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 Peter Lovesey's most popular book?

Based on reader reviews and sales data, Peter Lovesey's most celebrated works come from the Publication Order of Anthologies series. The first book, The Perfect Murder, is widely considered the ideal starting point and consistently receives outstanding reader ratings.