BookPath
The Sixth Man
David Baldacci

The Sixth Man

Quick Answer

Read "The Sixth Man" as the 5th book in the King and Maxwell sequence. This follows the recommended publication order to preserve character development.

Sequence Warning

⚠️ Do NOT read before "First Family" (Book 4)

❓ Can I skip this book?
❌ No — Required

This book is essential to the core narrative and character development.

Verdict Insight: As the 5th installment, this volume is critical for following the central narrative progression and plot development.

Is this helpful?
2011432 ppWikidataSource
Edgar Roy – an alleged serial killer – is awaiting trial. He faces almost certain conviction. Sean King and Michelle Maxwell are called in by Roy’s attorney, Sean’s old friend and mentor Ted Bergin, to help work the case. But their investigation is derailed when Sean and Michelle find Bergin murdered. It is now up to them to ask the questions no one seems to want answered: Is Roy a killer? Who murdered Bergin? The more they dig into Roy’s past, the more they encounter obstacles, half-truths, dead-ends, false friends, and escalating threats from every direction. Their persistence puts them on a collision course with the highest levels of the government and the darkest corners of power. In a terrifying confrontation that will push Sean and Michelle to their limits, the duo may be permanently parted.
Next Recommended Book

King And Maxwell

Book #6 of 6 in Series

Complete Series Reading Order

Publication Order

Preserves character reveals and plot twists exactly as the author intended.

Chronological Order

May spoil surprises but improves timeline clarity for deep lore fans.

Order Confidence

high Confidence

Why this order?

Our team of curators analyzes publication history, author interviews, and internal narrative continuity to establish the definitive reading sequence. This ensures zero spoilers and maximum narrative impact.

Why This Order Is Confusing

Many reading lists for King and Maxwell conflict because early publishers often labeled short story collections as standalone novels, or rearranged internal chronologies for marketing. This guide follows original author intent and narrative continuity to settle the debate for good.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I skip reading The Sixth Man?

This book is essential to the core narrative and character development.

Can I read The Sixth Man before First Family?

No. We recommend reading First Family first. The Sixth Man is the 5th book in the series and follows the core narrative established in earlier volumes.

Is The Sixth Man required reading for the King and Maxwell?

Yes, it is a core installment in the series reading order and contains critical character development and plot progression.

What comes after The Sixth Man in the reading order?

The next recommended book after The Sixth Man is King And Maxwell (Book #6).