BookPath
Stay Close
Harlan Coben

Stay Close

Quick Answer

Read "Stay Close" as the 11th book in the Standalone Novels sequence. This follows the recommended publication order to preserve character development.

Sequence Warning

⚠️ Do NOT read before "Coming Unglued" (Book 10)

❓ Can I skip this book?
❌ No — Required

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

Verdict Insight: As the 11th installment, this volume is critical for following the central narrative progression and plot development.

Is this helpful?
2012480 ppWikidataSource
NOW A NETFLIX SERIES! The bestselling author and creator of the hit Netflix dramas Fool Me Once and The Stranger proves that the past never truly fades away in this shocking thriller. Megan is a suburban soccer mom who once upon a time walked on the wild side. Ray used to be a talented documentary photographer but now finds himself in a dead-end job posing as a paparazzo. Broome is a detective who can’t let go of a cold case. Each is hiding secrets that even those closest to them would never suspect. When the terrible consequences of long-ago events threaten to ruin their quiet suburban lives, they will come to the startling realization that they may not want to forget the past at all. As Megan, Ray, and Broome are faced with the excitement of temptation and the desperation and hunger that can lurk behind even the prettiest facades—they will discover a hard truth: the line between one kind of life and another can be as whisper-thin as a heartbeat. Cover Art © Netflix 2021. Used with permission.
Next Recommended Book

A Painted House

Book #11 of 524 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 Standalone Novels 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 Stay Close?

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

Can I read Stay Close before Coming Unglued?

No. We recommend reading Coming Unglued first. Stay Close is the 11th book in the series and follows the core narrative established in earlier volumes.

Is Stay Close required reading for the Standalone Novels?

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

What comes after Stay Close in the reading order?

The next recommended book after Stay Close is A Painted House (Book #11).