This article will guide you through Patricia Cornwell’s books in order of publication and with their summaries, ensuring you don’t miss anything.
Cornwell is best known for her Kay Scarpetta series which introduced readers to cutting-edge forensic science long before it became a staple of crime dramas.
Since the release of her debut novel, Postmortem (1990), she has captivated audiences with meticulous research, gripping storytelling and unforgettable characters.
Her influence extends beyond fiction, sparking public interest in forensic pathology and criminal investigation.
In addition to the Kay Scarpetta series, Cornwell has written the Captain Chase series, the Andy Brazil novels and the Win Garano books, along with standalone works and nonfiction.
Whether you’re a longtime fan or just discovering her work, this guide will help you explore Patricia Cornwell’s novels in order of publication and with their summaries, allowing you to experience her stories the way they were meant to be read.
Patricia Cornwell’s Kay Scarpetta Series In Order of Publication and with Summaries
1. Postmortem (1990)
Dr. Kay Scarpetta, a brilliant forensic pathologist is on the hunt for a vicious serial killer targeting women in Richmond, Virginia.
With little evidence and pressure mounting, she must use cutting-edge forensic science to crack the case before the murderer strikes again.
But as she gets closer to the truth, Scarpetta realizes she’s being watched and could be the next target.
2. Body of Evidence (1991)
When a reclusive writer is brutally murdered, Kay Scarpetta discovers a disturbing connection to another crime.
The victim left behind a trail of cryptic letters and as Scarpetta pieces together the clues, she finds herself tangled in a dangerous web of secrets, betrayal and a killer determined to keep the truth buried.
3. All That Remains (1992)
Young couples are disappearing only to be found murdered in remote locations.
As Scarpetta investigates, she realizes the killer is taunting the authorities leaving behind no clear evidence.
With political pressure complicating the case and a personal connection to one of the victims, she races against time to stop the killer before more lives are lost.
4. Cruel & Unusual (1993)
A convicted murderer is executed but when a new crime mirrors his killing style, Scarpetta questions whether the real killer is still out there.
The deeper she digs, the more sinister the case becomes especially when she finds herself accused of tampering with evidence.
With her career and life on the line, she must unravel the truth before it’s too late.
5. The Body Farm (1994)
A young girl’s brutal murder leads Scarpetta to the legendary Body Farm, a research facility studying human decomposition.
With FBI profiler Benton Wesley and her tech-savvy niece Lucy, she follows a trail of forensic evidence that points to a terrifying predator.
But this time, the case is personal and Scarpetta may be walking into a deadly trap.
6. From Potter’s Field (1995)
A chilling murder in Central Park sends Kay Scarpetta on the trail of Temple Gault, a brilliant but deranged serial killer.
As Christmas approaches, Scarpetta races against time to stop him before he claims another victim.
But Gault is always one step ahead and this time the case is more personal than ever.
7. Cause of Death (1996)
On New Year’s Eve, a journalist is found dead in an underwater shipyard and Scarpetta is called in to investigate.
What seems like an accident quickly turns sinister leading her into a dark world of military secrets, extremist groups and a deadly conspiracy that puts her own life in danger.
8. Unnatural Exposure (1997)
A string of gruesome murders leads Scarpetta to a chilling discovery of a killer who uses a deadly virus as a weapon.
As she pieces together the clues, she realizes that the murderer is playing a sick game and she may be the next target.
Can she stop the killer before a deadly outbreak begins?
9. Point of Origin (1998)
A devastating fire leaves a woman dead and Scarpetta is convinced it’s no accident.
As she investigates, old enemies resurface and the case takes a terrifying turn.
With a ruthless killer on the loose and her own life at risk, Scarpetta must use all her forensic skills to catch the murderer before everything goes up in flames.
10. Black Notice (1999)
A mysterious mutilated body found in a shipping container leads Scarpetta on an international hunt for a killer known as “Le Loup-Garou” (The Werewolf).
As she follows the trail from Virginia to France, she uncovers a deadly underground network.
But the more she digs, the more she realizes that this case is far more personal than she ever expected.
11. The Last Precinct (2000)
Scarpetta is under investigation after barely surviving an attack by the sadistic killer Jean-Baptiste Chandonne.
As she fights to clear her name, she uncovers a deeper conspiracy that threatens her career and life.
With secrets unravelling and the past haunting her, Scarpetta must outsmart her enemies before she loses everything.
12. Blow Fly (2003)
After leaving her job as Chief Medical Examiner, Scarpetta tries to rebuild her life but murder still follows her.
A cryptic message from a death row inmate pulls her back into a deadly game with an old enemy.
As she tracks a twisted killer across the country, she realizes that danger is closer than she could have ever imagined.
13. Trace (2004)
Scarpetta returns to Virginia five years after leaving only to be confronted with a disturbing murder case and a forensics department in chaos.
As she investigates, she realizes someone is watching her and manipulating events from the shadows.
The past and present collide in a chilling way, forcing Scarpetta to face her darkest fears.
14. Predator (2005)
A brutal murder leads Scarpetta to a research facility studying the minds of serial killers.
As she analyzes the clues, she begins to suspect that a new kind of predator is on the loose, one who kills not just for pleasure but for a disturbing purpose.
But when someone close to her becomes the next target, the hunt for the killer becomes personal.
15. Book of the Dead (2007)
Now running a private forensic practice in South Carolina, Scarpetta is called to examine a high-profile murder in Rome.
As more bodies pile up, she follows the trail of a sadistic killer who leaves cryptic messages of “The Book of the Dead.”
But the closer she gets to the truth, the more she realizes that evil is lurking dangerously close to home.
16. Scarpetta (2008)
Kay Scarpetta is back in Richmond but the world of forensic science has changed.
New technology, new killers and new challenges make her job more complicated than ever.
When a brutal murder brings her face-to-face with a dangerous adversary, Scarpetta must use her skills and intuition to solve a personal case that seems impossiblel.
17. The Scarpetta Factor (2009)
Scarpetta is thrust into a case that combines technology with terror when a dangerous hacker is linked to a series of gruesome murders.
As the body count increases, Scarpetta’s life is further complicated by a mysterious powerful figure trying to destroy her career.
With everything on the line, Scarpetta must find the killer before the truth is buried forever.
18. Port Mortuary (2010)
Scarpetta is called to investigate the mysterious death of a woman at a high-tech medical facility.
With forensic evidence pointing in strange directions and the pressure mounting, Scarpetta uncovers secrets that could change the future of science and medicine.
As the case grows darker, she finds herself in a dangerous game where nothing is as it seems.
19. Red Mist (2011)
When a convicted murderer on death row claims to have valuable information, Scarpetta is drawn into a twisted game of cat and mouse.
As she works to uncover the truth behind his confession, she finds herself entangled in a web of lies, manipulation and revenge all while a new and deadlier threat lurks in the shadows.
20. The Bone Bed (2012)
Scarpetta is called to investigate a bizarre case where the remains of a missing woman are found in a remote location.
As she digs deeper, the evidence leads her into a world of toxic secrets and dangerous cover-ups.
With the body count rising and time running out, Scarpetta must uncover the killer’s identity before becoming their next victim.
21. Dust (2013)
Scarpetta investigates the murder of a prominent businessman, only to discover a dark secret that leads her to a shocking conclusion.
As she pieces together the evidence, she’s confronted with powerful enemies and a disturbing twist that puts her career and life on the line.
The more she digs, the closer she gets to a dangerous truth.
22. Flesh and Blood (2014)
A brutal seemingly random murder thrusts Scarpetta into a complex case involving family secrets and deadly motives.
As she uncovers new clues, a chilling pattern emerges that connects the crime to her past.
With a killer still on the loose, Scarpetta faces the challenge of solving a case that is deeply personal and potentially life-threatening.
23. Depraved Heart (2015)
Scarpetta is called to investigate a tragic case involving a wealthy family but things quickly spiral into a nightmare as she discovers a trail of lies and dangerous obsessions.
With a relentless killer on the prowl and her relationships put to the test, Scarpetta must race against time to stop a psychopath before more lives are destroyed.
24. Chaos (2016)
When a renowned scientist is found dead under mysterious circumstances, Scarpetta is pulled into a high-stakes investigation.
As she uncovers hidden agendas and dangerous secrets, she’s forced to confront her own demons.
With every step closer to the truth, the stakes rise higher and the killer’s motives become more terrifying.
25. Autopsy (2021)
Scarpetta returns to work with a new disturbing case that forces her to confront a ruthless killer with a chilling new method.
As she navigates the world of modern forensics, Scarpetta must outwit a brilliant criminal mastermind who’s always one step ahead.
The race against time becomes even more intense as the killer sets their sights on her.
26. Livid (2022)
When a case leads Scarpetta into the world of art forgery and violent crime, she uncovers a connection to a notorious killer she thought she’d left behind.
With her team facing betrayals and danger lurking at every turn, Scarpetta must navigate a tangled web of deception to stop a killer with an insatiable appetite for violence.
27. Unnatural Death (2023)
Scarpetta faces the mystery of a young woman’s death and as she digs deeper into the case, she realizes that this is no ordinary murder.
With dark secrets emerging and the killer always lurking in the shadows, Scarpetta is drawn into a dangerous game where nothing is as it seems.
The truth is buried and it’s up to Scarpetta to uncover it before it’s too late.
28. Identity Unknown (2024)
A woman’s body is found with no ID, no fingerprints and no clues to her identity.
Kay Scarpetta is called in to investigate and the case becomes more complicated with each turn.
As Scarpetta digs deeper, she discovers unsettling ties between the victim and someone from her past.
With time running out, Scarpetta faces her toughest challenge yet, uncovering secrets that could have deadly consequences.
Can she solve the case and uncover the truth before it’s too late?
Patricia Cornwell’s Captain Chase Series in Order of Publication and with Summaries
1. Quantum (2019)
Captain Judy Chase, a sharp driven officer in the U.S. Coast Guard faces her toughest mission yet when a high-tech drone crashes on a remote island containing top-secret military data.
As she investigates, she uncovers a deadly conspiracy involving international criminals, cutting-edge technology and a shocking connection to her past.
Chase must use all her skills to stop a global disaster all while navigating complex personal challenges.
2. Spin (2020)
In Spin, Captain Judy Chase is back in action, this time tracking down a dangerous hacker who’s manipulating world events from behind the scenes.
When a top-secret weapon is stolen, it becomes a race against time to prevent chaos from spreading.
Chase’s mission is further complicated by deadly enemies, high-tech intrigue and a personal betrayal that threatens to undo everything.
Can she stop the criminals before they change the course of history?
Patricia Cornwell’s Andy Brazil Series in Order of Publication and with Summaries
1. Hornet’s Nest (1996)
Andy Brazil, a rookie reporter and his partner, police officer Julie Corman, are thrown into a tense situation when a sniper targets a police station.
As they dig deeper into the crime, they uncover a web of corruption and violence that goes far beyond what they expected.
The investigation leads to dangerous revelations, testing Brazil’s journalistic skills and his loyalty to his friends in law enforcement.
2. Southern Cross (1998)
In this fast-paced thriller, Andy Brazil and Julie Corman find themselves in a perilous situation when they’re called to investigate the murder of a woman in a small town.
As they uncover hidden secrets and powerful enemies, they must stay one step ahead of a deadly predator who’s willing to do anything to protect their darkest secrets.
The case becomes increasingly personal as Brazil and Corman confront their own fears and ambitions.
3. Isle of Dogs (2001)
When a dead body is discovered on a private island, Andy Brazil and Julie Corman are sent to investigate.
What seems like a simple case soon turns into a dangerous game of cat and mouse with a killer who is always one step ahead.
As they uncover layers of deceit and corruption, Brazil and Corman must navigate treacherous waters both literal and figurative, if they hope to bring the killer to justice.
Patricia Cornwell’s Win Garano Series in Order of Publication and with Summaries
1. At Risk (2006)
Detective Win Garano is called in to investigate the cold case of a murdered woman but this isn’t just any ordinary case.
The victim’s death has ties to powerful political figures and Garano must navigate a labyrinth of secrets, lies and dangerous truths.
As he digs deeper, Garano realizes that solving the case could bring him into direct conflict with influential powerful people.
Will he crack the case or become a target himself?
2. The Front (2008)
In this intense follow-up, Win Garano is faced with another high-profile case, this time involving a former cop who’s accused of murder.
As Garano works to uncover the truth, he uncovers a conspiracy that could shake the foundation of the justice system itself.
With corruption at every level, Garano must decide whether to risk everything for the truth or save his life.
Patricia Cornwell’s Standalone Novels in Order of Publication and with Summaries
1. Ruth, A Portrait: The Story of Ruth Bell Graham (1997)
In this heartfelt biography, Cornwell delves into the life of Ruth Bell Graham, the wife of famous evangelist Billy Graham.
The book paints a portrait of Ruth’s life, focusing on her faith, dedication to her family and role in the world of evangelism.
It’s a deep look into a remarkable woman who influenced not only her husband’s ministry but also the lives of millions worldwide.
2. Scarpetta’s Winter Table (1998)
A unique blend of culinary and forensic mysteries, Scarpetta’s Winter Table offers a peek into the world of Kay Scarpetta when she’s not solving murders.
The book features Scarpetta’s favourite recipes and her personal stories behind each dish.
Fans of the Scarpetta series will love the mix of food and storytelling, making it a perfect blend of fiction and flavour for anyone interested in the character’s life beyond the morgue.
3. Life’s Little Fable (1999)
In Life’s Little Fable, Jarrod leads a carefree innocent life in a distant Eden-like land.
His peaceful existence is disrupted when he is tempted with the promise of anything he desires in exchange for venturing into a forbidden pond.
This fable explores themes of temptation, innocence and the consequences of straying from a path of purity.
With a simple yet powerful narrative, Cornwell presents a thought-provoking story about the choices we make and the price of curiosity.
4. Food to Die For: Secrets from Kay Scarpetta’s Kitchen (2002)
In Food to Die For, Patricia Cornwell takes readers inside Scarpetta’s kitchen with an assortment of delicious recipes and cooking tips.
Drawing inspiration from the series, Cornwell shares not only Scarpetta’s love for food but also offers a behind-the-scenes look at the character’s life.
It’s a flavorful mix of fiction and real-life cooking for fans of the Kay Scarpetta books and food lovers alike.
Patricia Cornwell’s Jack The Ripper Series in Order of Publication and with Summaries
1. Portrait of a Killer: Jack the Ripper—Case Closed (2002)
In this groundbreaking non-fiction book, Cornwell sets out to solve the infamous Jack the Ripper case once and for all.
Using modern forensic science including DNA analysis, she presents evidence that leads her to believe the killer was Walter Sickert, a well-known artist.
Cornwell’s investigation challenges the long-standing theories about the identity of the Ripper and offers a shocking new perspective on one of history’s most notorious unsolved mysteries.
2. Chasing the Ripper (2014)
In Chasing the Ripper (2014), Patricia Cornwell revisits the infamous Jack the Ripper case, a mystery that has haunted London for over a century.
Following her groundbreaking 2002 book, Portrait of a Killer, in which she identified British painter Walter Sickert as the Ripper, Cornwell dedicates another decade to uncovering new evidence.
This Kindle Single offers fresh insights into her investigation, restates her case against Sickert and challenges her critics.
Cornwell provides a personal in-depth look at her journey to solve one of the most notorious unsolved crimes in history all while continuing to captivate readers with her Scarpetta novels.
3. Ripper: The Secret Life of Walter Sickert (2017)
In Ripper: The Secret Life of Walter Sickert, Cornwell continues her exploration of the Jack the Ripper case diving deeper into the life of Walter Sickert, the man she believes was the killer.
The book blends art history, psychology and forensic analysis to offer an unsettling portrait of Sickert.
Cornwell’s compelling narrative examines his disturbing connections to the Ripper murders, providing new evidence and insights into one of the most notorious figures in criminal history.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Patricia Cornwell’s Novels
1. What is the first book in the Kay Scarpetta series?
The first book in the Kay Scarpetta series is Postmortem (1990).
2. How many books are in the Kay Scarpetta series?
As of 2025, there are 28 books in the Kay Scarpetta series.
3. Should I read Patricia Cornwell’s Kay Scarpetta series in order?
Yes, reading Patricia Cornwell’s Kay Scarpetta’s books in order provides a better understanding of character development and ongoing storylines.
4. Are Patricia Cornwell’s books based on real-life events?
Some of Cornwell’s books, especially her non-fiction works are based on real-life cases and historical figures.
5. What is the Captain Chase series about?
The Captain Chase series follows Judy Chase, a Coast Guard officer as she uncovers high-stakes mysteries involving modern technology and dangerous criminals.
6. What are Patricia Cornwell’s standalone novels?
Cornwell’s standalone novels include Portrait of a Killer (2002), Scarpetta’s Winter Table (1998) and Food to Die For (2002).
7. Are there any other series by Patricia Cornwell?
Yes, besides the Kay Scarpetta series, Cornwell has written the Andy Brazil series and the Win Garano series.
8. What genre does Patricia Cornwell primarily write in?
Patricia Cornwell primarily writes crime fiction, focusing on forensic thrillers.
9. What is Patricia Cornwell’s most famous book?
Her most famous book is Postmortem (1990), which introduced the world to Kay Scarpetta.
10. Can I start reading Patricia Cornwell’s books with any book in the series?
It’s best to start with the first book in the Kay Scarpetta series, Postmortem, to fully understand the character’s evolution.
Wrapping Up the Guide to Patricia Cornwell’s Books in Order
Patricia Cornwell’s extensive catalogue of books has undeniably reshaped the landscape of crime fiction, particularly in the realm of forensic thrillers.
Through the iconic Kay Scarpetta series, Cornwell introduced readers to a brilliant, strong and often vulnerable forensic pathologist who tackles some of the most grisly crimes in the genre.
Her detailed accurate portrayal of forensic science along with her complex well-developed characters has set a new standard for crime novels.
Beyond her Kay Scarpetta series, Cornwell’s Andy Brazil and Win Garano series as well as her standalone novels have further showcased her talent for blending suspense, science and deeply personal storytelling.
Over the years, Cornwell’s work has earned a dedicated following and has influenced countless authors within the genre.
Her impact on the forensic thriller subgenre cannot be overstated as she has been instrumental in pushing the boundaries of crime writing while simultaneously exploring deeper psychological and emotional layers in her characters.
For new readers just beginning to explore Patricia Cornwell’s novels, starting with Postmortem (1990), the first book in the Kay Scarpetta series is a perfect choice.
It offers an excellent entry point into the gripping world of forensic science and crime-solving while also establishing the foundational elements of Kay Scarpetta’s character.
Alternatively, those seeking a standalone thriller may find Portrait of a Killer: Jack the Ripper-Case Closed (2002) a fascinating introduction to her non-fiction work.
Whether you choose to start with the Kay Scarpetta series in order or explore her diverse catalogue of novels, Patricia Cornwell’s books promise an immersive reading experience filled with suspense, intricate plot twists and unforgettable characters.
Her work continues to captivate readers and set the standard for crime fiction today.
So that’s it for now, we hope you enjoyed reading the above guide on Patricia Cornwell’s books in order 🙂