Do Sue Grafton Books Need To Be Read In Order? A Kinsey Millhone Reading Guide

You can definitely enjoy Sue Grafton’s books without reading them in order. Each book features a new mystery, and Kinsey Millhone, the protagonist, is introduced anew in every story. The stories don’t build on each other, so you won’t miss any crucial plot details if you jump in at any point in the series.

This is great news for those who love a good mystery but are intimidated by a long series. You can pick up any “Alphabet” book and dive right in. Whether you start with “A is for Alibi” or “Z is for Zero”, you’ll be treated to a standalone mystery with a strong female detective, a captivating plot, and a satisfying resolution. So, don’t worry about reading them in order – just choose a book that catches your eye and get ready to be captivated by Kinsey Millhone’s world.

Now, while you don’t *need* to read the books in order, you might find that doing so adds an extra layer of enjoyment. Seeing Kinsey’s development as a detective and her personal life unfold across the series can be quite rewarding. You’ll get to know the supporting characters better, and you’ll appreciate the subtle ways Grafton weaves in references to previous cases. It’s like watching a friend grow and evolve over time. But, even if you don’t read them in order, you’ll still be able to appreciate each book as a complete and satisfying story.