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The 17th Suspect
James Patterson

The 17th Suspect

Quick Answer

Read "The 17th Suspect" as the 17th book in the Women's Murder Club Series sequence. This follows the recommended publication order to preserve character development.

Sequence Warning

⚠️ Do NOT read before "16th Seduction" (Book 16)

❓ Can I skip this book?
❌ No — Required

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

Verdict Insight: As the 17th installment, this volume is critical for following the central narrative progression and plot development.

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2018400 pp
A series of shootings exposes San Francisco to a methodical yet unpredictable killer, and a reluctant woman decides to put her trust in Sergeant Lindsay Boxer. The confidential informant's tip leads Lindsay to disturbing conclusions, including that something has gone horribly wrong inside the police department itself. The hunt for the killer lures Lindsay out of her jurisdiction, and gets inside Lindsay in dangerous ways. She suffers unsettling medical symptoms, and her friends and confidantes in the Women's Murder Club warn Lindsay against taking the crimes too much to heart. With lives at stake, the detective can't help but follow the case into ever more terrifying terrain. A decorated officer, loving wife, devoted mother, and loyal friend, Lindsay's unwavering integrity has never failed her. But now she is confronting a killer who is determined to undermine it all.
Next Recommended Book

18th Abduction

Book #18 of 25 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 Women's Murder Club 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 The 17th Suspect?

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

Can I read The 17th Suspect before 16th Seduction?

No. We recommend reading 16th Seduction first. The 17th Suspect is the 17th book in the series and follows the core narrative established in earlier volumes.

Is The 17th Suspect required reading for the Women's Murder Club Series?

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

What comes after The 17th Suspect in the reading order?

The next recommended book after The 17th Suspect is 18th Abduction (Book #18).