BookPath
Red Glove
Holly Black

Red Glove

Quick Answer

Start with "Red Glove" to begin the The Curse Workers. It is the essential series starter and provides the necessary foundation for the rest of the books.

Quick Verdict

✅ Safe to read now (Series Entry Point)

❓ Can I skip this book?
❌ No — Required

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

Verdict Insight: This is the essential series starter that introduces the Holly Black's core world and character arcs. It is required reading for all new fans.

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2011336 ppSeries StarterWikidataSource
When federal agents learn that seventeen-year-old Cassel Sharpe, a powerful transformation worker, may be of use to them, they offer him a deal to join them rather than the mobsters for whom his brothers work.
Next Recommended Book

Black Heart (The Curse Workers)

Book #2 of 3 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 The Curse Workers 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 Red Glove?

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

Can I read Red Glove before other books in the series?

Yes, Red Glove is the first book in the series and is the ideal starting point for new readers.

Is Red Glove required reading for the The Curse Workers?

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

What comes after Red Glove in the reading order?

The next recommended book after Red Glove is Black Heart (The Curse Workers) (Book #2).