To read Kate Rhodes books in order, start with her psychological thrillers featuring forensic psychologist Alice Quentin, followed by her atmospheric Ben Kitto detective series set in the Scilly Isles. Each series is gripping, layered with character depth and rich settings, but following the publication order is the best way to fully enjoy her suspenseful storytelling.
Kate Rhodes is a British crime writer known for her dark plots, emotionally complex characters, and evocative backdrops. Whether you’re drawn to urban London thrillers or island-based murder mysteries, reading her books in sequence will enrich your experience.
Kate Rhodes Books in Order by Series
Kate Rhodes has written two main series, both of which are best read in order due to character progression and recurring themes.
Alice Quentin Series (Psychological Thriller in London)
This series follows Alice Quentin, a forensic psychologist working closely with London’s Metropolitan Police. It combines psychological depth with dark, twisty crime plots.
Books in order:
- Crossbones Yard (2012)
- A Killing of Angels (2013)
- The Winter Foundlings (2014)
- River of Souls (2015)
- Blood Symmetry (2016)
This series introduces readers to Alice’s struggles with her own trauma as she dives into disturbing cases across London.
Ben Kitto Series (Detective Series in the Isles of Scilly)
This atmospheric series follows DI Ben Kitto, who returns to the Isles of Scilly seeking peace but finds murder lurking in the remote island setting.
Books in order:
- Hell Bay (2018)
- Ruin Beach (2019)
- Burnt Island (2020)
- Pulpit Rock (2020)
- The Brutal Tide (2022)
- The Devil’s Table (2023)
Each book in the Ben Kitto series features a standalone mystery, but reading them sequentially allows you to follow Ben’s personal journey and his growing connection with the island community.
Why Reading Kate Rhodes in Order Enhances the Experience
While many of her books can stand alone, the character development and ongoing subplots make the reading order essential for full immersion.
Reasons to read in order:
- Understand each protagonist’s evolving backstory and trauma.
- Enjoy character arcs that develop over multiple books.
- Spot recurring themes and references to previous investigations.
This continuity builds emotional depth and enhances suspense in both series.
What Sets Kate Rhodes’ Books Apart
Kate Rhodes excels at blending deeply human emotions with chilling crime narratives. Her books are ideal for readers who want more than just plot twists—they want character-driven tension and a strong sense of place.
Notable features of her writing:
- Gritty realism mixed with empathy and insight.
- Vividly drawn settings—whether it’s the hustle of London or the isolated Isles of Scilly.
- Female leads and damaged heroes confronting real psychological challenges.
Her forensic detail and layered characters set her apart from formulaic crime fiction.
Thematic Breakdown of Each Series
Kate Rhodes structures each series with a distinct tone and focus.
Alice Quentin Series Themes:
- Psychological trauma and resilience
- Urban crime, serial killers, and corruption
- Forensic profiling and ethical dilemmas
Ben Kitto Series Themes:
- Community secrets and small-town politics
- Nature, isolation, and coastal danger
- Personal redemption and hidden pasts
Both series focus on justice, grief, and how personal history affects professional roles.
Where to Start Based on Your Interests
If you’re unsure where to begin, choose based on your preferred setting and style.
Best for psychological suspense:
- Start with Crossbones Yard (Alice Quentin series)
Best for traditional detective mystery with strong atmosphere:
- Begin with Hell Bay (Ben Kitto series)
Both series offer engaging plots, but the settings create different vibes—dark and urban vs. remote and scenic.
FAQs About Kate Rhodes Books in Order
Here are some questions and answers about reading Kate Rhodes’ books:
What is the correct reading order for Kate Rhodes’ books?
Start with the Alice Quentin series: Crossbones Yard, A Killing of Angels, The Winter Foundlings, River of Souls, and Blood Symmetry. Then move to the Ben Kitto series starting with Hell Bay.
Can I read the Ben Kitto books out of order?
Each mystery is self-contained, but reading in order allows you to follow Ben’s personal journey and relationships.
Are there crossovers between the two series?
No, they are set in different locations and feature different characters, though they share a similar tone and psychological focus.
What kind of readers will enjoy Kate Rhodes?
Fans of Tana French, Sharon Bolton, and Ann Cleeves will enjoy her combination of psychological insight and atmospheric crime writing.
Is Kate Rhodes still writing new books?
Yes, as of 2023, The Devil’s Table is her latest release in the Ben Kitto series, and readers can expect more entries to come.
Reading Kate Rhodes’ books in order offers a deeper emotional impact and a seamless journey through dark minds and haunting settings. Whether you start in London or the Scilly Isles, you’ll be drawn into stories that are as thoughtful as they are thrilling.