Temperance Brennan
Books in Order.
Start here
Déjà Dead (1997)
Start with Déjà Dead (1997), which is book 1, and read in publication order.
Start with Déjà Dead (1997), which is book 1, and read in publication order. Each case is largely self-contained, but Tempe's personal life carries across the books.
The complete reading order for the Temperance Brennan series by Kathy Reichs. 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 Déjà Dead (1997), which is book 1, and read in publication order. Each case is largely self-contained, but Tempe's personal life carries across the books.
- •Spider Bones (2010) was published in the UK as Mortal Remains.
- •A Conspiracy of Bones (2020) is the 19th novel, following Speaking in Bones (2015).
- •Evil Bones (November 2025) is the latest novel.
At a Glance
- First Book:Déjà Dead
- Latest Book:Evil Bones
- Timeline:1997 - 2025
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View on Amazon →Frequently Asked Questions
What order should I read Temperance Brennan in?
Start with Déjà Dead (1997), which is book 1, and read in publication order. Each case is largely self-contained, but Tempe's personal life carries across the books.
How many books are in Temperance Brennan?
24 main books, published 1997–2025.
Can I read Temperance Brennan out of order?
It's best not to. The books build on each other, so reading out of order spoils earlier twists.