If you’re searching for Iris Johansen books in order, you’re in for a long, thrilling ride.
With over 100 published novels spanning romantic suspense, psychological thrillers, and crime fiction—with a touch of the paranormal—Johansen has built a literary empire of page-turning danger, brilliant heroines, and deeply personal mysteries.
In this post, we’ll walk you through her major series (including the beloved Eve Duncan books), the best reading order, and where to start if you’re new to her work.
Who Is Iris Johansen?
Iris Johansen began her career writing romance but quickly transitioned to suspense—and never looked back. Known for strong female protagonists, high-stakes investigations, and emotionally driven storytelling, she blends fast-paced thrillers with deeper themes of trauma, justice, and redemption.
Many of her books center around Eve Duncan, a forensic sculptor who reconstructs the faces of the dead—but Johansen’s universe extends far beyond.
Iris Johansen Books in Order by Series
1. The Eve Duncan Series
This is Johansen’s most iconic series, following forensic sculptor Eve Duncan as she works cases tied to missing children, serial killers, and her own painful past.
Eve Duncan Series Reading Order (First 10 Books):
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The Face of Deception
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The Killing Game
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The Search
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Body of Lies
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Blind Alley
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Countdown
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Stalemate
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Quicksand
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Blood Game
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Eight Days to Live
Note: There are over 25 Eve Duncan books. Johansen often groups them into connected trilogies within the larger series. Reading them chronologically is best for full impact.
2. Eve, Quinn, and Bonnie Trilogy
A pivotal arc within the Eve Duncan series focusing on Eve’s daughter, Bonnie, and her tragic disappearance.
Books in Order:
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Eve
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Quinn
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Bonnie
Why read it: Emotional, intense, and central to Eve’s character development.
3. The Kendra Michaels Series
(Co-written with Roy Johansen)
Kendra is a music therapist with heightened observational skills (think Sherlock meets The Mentalist). She was blind for most of her life—and uses that unique perspective to solve crimes.
Books in Order:
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Close Your Eyes
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Sight Unseen
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The Naked Eye
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Night Watch
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Look Behind You
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Blink of an Eye
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Smokescreen
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Lightning Strike
Why read it: A newer, more modern take on the classic thriller heroine with fascinating sensory detail.
4. Catherine Ling Series
Catherine is a CIA operative with a dark past and lethal skills. This series has more international intrigue and action.
Books in Order:
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Chasing the Night
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What Doesn’t Kill You
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Live to See Tomorrow
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Your Next Breath
Why read it: Fast-paced spy thrillers with a fierce and complex female lead.
5. Standalone Romantic Suspense and Earlier Works
Johansen has written dozens of standalones—some steamy, some suspenseful, many combining both.
Notable titles:
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And Then You Die
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The Ugly Duckling
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No One to Trust
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Fatal Tide
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Final Target
Why read them: Great for sampling her writing style or if you want a complete story in one sitting.
Where Should You Start?
If you’re new to Iris Johansen:
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Start with The Face of Deception to kick off the Eve Duncan series
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Prefer faster action? Try Close Your Eyes (Kendra Michaels #1)
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Want an emotional rollercoaster? Begin with Eve (Eve, Quinn, and Bonnie trilogy)
There’s no wrong entry point—just different flavors of suspense.
Are the Audiobooks Worth It?
Yes! Many titles are available in audio with strong narration. Kendra Michaels titles in particular shine thanks to the detailed sensory descriptions.
Final Thought: A Thriller Legacy That Keeps Growing
Reading Iris Johansen books in order gives you access to one of the most expansive thriller universes in fiction. Whether you’re chasing a killer, uncovering a conspiracy, or seeking closure for long-buried trauma, her stories deliver high tension and emotional payoff.
Ready to discover your next favorite mystery or thriller?
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