BookPath
California Murders
James Patterson

California Murders

Quick Answer

Read "California Murders" as the 76th book in the Murder Bookshots (Standalone Novellas) sequence. This follows the recommended publication order to preserve character development.

Sequence Warning

⚠️ Do NOT read before "Injustice" (Book 75)

❓ Can I skip this book?
❌ No — Required

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

Verdict Insight: As the 76th installment, this volume is critical for following the central narrative progression and plot development.

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2021258 pp
Forgotten California Murders 1915 to 1968 chronicles homicides that happened so long ago they have been forgotten even by the families of the killers and the victims. Their crimes are no less shocking than the murders that have had books and films made about them.
Next Recommended Book

Airport - Code Red

Book #78 of 51 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 Murder Bookshots (Standalone Novellas) 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 California Murders?

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

Can I read California Murders before Injustice?

No. We recommend reading Injustice first. California Murders is the 76th book in the series and follows the core narrative established in earlier volumes.

Is California Murders required reading for the Murder Bookshots (Standalone Novellas)?

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

What comes after California Murders in the reading order?

The next recommended book after California Murders is Airport - Code Red (Book #78).