Easy Rawlins
Books in Order.
Start with Devil in a Blue Dress (1990), which is book 1, and read in publication order. Gone Fishin' (1997) is set earlier, in Easy's youth, so it can also be read first.
The complete reading order for the Easy Rawlins series by Walter Mosley. Below you'll find the authoritative guide on how to read the books in order, including publication dates and chronological timeline placements.
Where to start
Start with Devil in a Blue Dress (1990), which is book 1, and read in publication order. Gone Fishin' (1997) is set earlier, in Easy's youth, so it can also be read first.
- •Gone Fishin' (1997) was the sixth book published but is set in 1939, Easy's youth, so it is placed first in the Chronological view.
- •Six Easy Pieces (2003) is a collection of short stories rather than a novel, so it is marked optional.
- •Walter Mosley's other series (Leonid McGill, Fearless Jones) and standalone books are not part of this list.
- •Gray Dawn (September 2025) is the latest book.
At a Glance
- First Book:Devil in a Blue Dress
- Latest Book:Gray Dawn
- Timeline:1990 - 2025
Complete Series Reading Order
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View on Amazon →Frequently Asked Questions
What order should I read Easy Rawlins in?
Start with Devil in a Blue Dress (1990), which is book 1, and read in publication order. Gone Fishin' (1997) is set earlier, in Easy's youth, so it can also be read first.
How many books are in Easy Rawlins?
15 main books, published 1990–2025, plus 2 side stories.
Can I read Easy Rawlins out of order?
It's best not to. The books build on each other, so reading out of order spoils earlier twists.
Which books in Easy Rawlins are prequels, novellas or side stories?
"Gone Fishin'" (prequel), "Six Easy Pieces". Each is placed in the reading order below.
Is there a chronological order for Easy Rawlins?
Yes. In story order the series begins with "Gone Fishin'" rather than "Devil in a Blue Dress". Switch the list below to Chronological to see the full timeline.