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The Match
Harlan Coben

The Match

Quick Answer

Read "The Match" as the 19th book in the Standalone Novels sequence. This follows the recommended publication order to preserve character development.

Sequence Warning

⚠️ Do NOT read before "A Dangerous Fortune" (Book 18)

❓ Can I skip this book?
❌ No — Required

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

Verdict Insight: As the 19th installment, this volume is critical for following the central narrative progression and plot development.

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2024400 pp
<p><b>A shocking genetic match exposes a family's darkest secret in this gripping thriller from the creator of the #1 hit Netflix series <i>Stay Close</i>.</b></p><p> After months away, Wilde has returned to the Ramapo Mountains in the wake of a failed bid at domesticity that confirms what he's known all along: He belongs on his own, free from the comforts and constraints of modern life. </p><p> Suddenly, a DNA match on an online ancestry database brings Wilde closer to his past than he's ever dreamed, and finally gives Wilde the opening he needs to track down his father. But meeting the man brings up more questions than answers. So Wilde reaches out to his last, most desperate lead, a second cousin who disappears as quickly as he resurfaces, having experienced an epic fall from grace that can only be described as a waking nightmare. </p><p> Was his cousin's downfall a long time coming? Or was he the victim of a conspiracy as cunning as it is complex? And how does it all connect to the man once known as The Stranger, a treacherous fugitive with a growing following whose mission and methods have only turned more dangerous with time? </p><p> Named a Best Book by <i>USA Today - Wall Street Journal - Publishers Weekly</i></p>
Next Recommended Book

Paris Mysteries

Book #19 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 The Match?

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

Can I read The Match before A Dangerous Fortune?

No. We recommend reading A Dangerous Fortune first. The Match is the 19th book in the series and follows the core narrative established in earlier volumes.

Is The Match 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 The Match in the reading order?

The next recommended book after The Match is Paris Mysteries (Book #19).