BookPath
Murder Games - Part 1
James Patterson

Murder Games - Part 1

Quick Answer

"Murder Games - Part 1" is an optional companion work. It can be read at any time, though it is usually best enjoyed after reading the first few core novels of the Short Series & Standalones (Specific).

Quick Verdict

🟡 Optional side story — not required for main plot

❓ Can I skip this book?
✅ Yes — Optional

This is a companion work that enriches the lore but is not strictly necessary to follow the main plot.

Verdict Insight: While this novella provides deeper world-building, it is a standalone story and can be read at any stage.

Is this helpful?
201780 ppNovellaOptional Side Story
<p><b>Now a hit TV series, <i>Instinct</i></b><br><b>__________________________</b></p><p><b>Part one of a gripping five-part murder mystery from bestselling thriller writer James Patterson.</b></p><p>A wealthy hedge fund manager is brutally murdered on the doorstep of his Upper East Side town house in Manhattan. </p><p>Elizabeth Needham, the tenacious cop in charge of the case, turns to an unlikely ally – Dylan Reinhart, a brilliant professor whose book turned up in connection with the murder. Along with the book was one other clue: a single playing card.</p><p>When another dead body and another playing card are found, Elizabeth and Dylan's worst fears are confirmed. They're hunting for a serial killer.</p>
Next Recommended Book

Juror No. 3

Book #6 of 5 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 Short Series & Standalones (Specific) 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 Murder Games - Part 1?

This is a companion work that enriches the lore but is not strictly necessary to follow the main plot.

Can I read Murder Games - Part 1 before other books in the series?

Yes. Murder Games - Part 1 is an optional side story and can be read at any time without spoiling the main series plot.

Is Murder Games - Part 1 required reading for the Short Series & Standalones (Specific)?

No, it is a companion work that enriches the lore but is not essential to the central storyline.

What comes after Murder Games - Part 1 in the reading order?

The next recommended book after Murder Games - Part 1 is Juror No. 3 (Book #6).