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Kill Alex Cross
James Patterson

Kill Alex Cross

Quick Answer

Read "Kill Alex Cross" as the 14th book in the Alex Cross Series sequence. This follows the recommended publication order to preserve character development.

Sequence Warning

⚠️ Do NOT read before "I, Alex Cross" (Book 13)

❓ Can I skip this book?
❌ No — Required

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

Verdict Insight: As the 14th installment, this volume is critical for following the central narrative progression and plot development.

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2011384 pp
In this heart-pounding thriller from the world’s most popular storyteller, with relentless danger around every corner, Detective Alex Cross is hunting down a kidnapper . . . but only if someone powerful doesn't kill him first. The inspiration for #1 hit streaming show, Cross.​ The President's son and daughter are abducted, and Detective Alex Cross is one of the first on the scene. But someone very high-up is using the FBI, Secret Service, and CIA to keep him off the case and in the dark. A deadly contagion in the water supply cripples half of the capital, and Alex discovers that someone may be about to unleash the most devastating attack the United States has ever experienced. As his window for solving both crimes narrows, Alex makes a desperate decision that goes against everything he believes-one that may alter the fate of the entire country. Kill Alex Cross is fast, exciting, and tightly wound, full of "fast-and-furious action" (Washington Post).
Next Recommended Book

Merry Christmas, Alex Cross

Book #15 of 16 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 Alex Cross Series 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 Kill Alex Cross?

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

Can I read Kill Alex Cross before I, Alex Cross?

No. We recommend reading I, Alex Cross first. Kill Alex Cross is the 14th book in the series and follows the core narrative established in earlier volumes.

Is Kill Alex Cross required reading for the Alex Cross Series?

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

What comes after Kill Alex Cross in the reading order?

The next recommended book after Kill Alex Cross is Merry Christmas, Alex Cross (Book #15).