Read Jessica Fellowes Books In Order : Every Fan MUST Know!

By Kathy | Last Updated on June 22, 2026

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Jessica Fellowes is an acclaimed British author known for weaving intricate tales that often blend historical fiction with thrilling mystery, captivating readers with her evocative storytelling and richly developed characters. If you are looking for an enthralling series that brings together fascinating historical details, suspenseful mysteries, and a dash of glamour, then her books might just be the perfect addition to your reading list.

Her most popular series, The Mitford Murders series, has gained widespread attention for its engaging plots, immersive historical settings, and memorable characters. Set in the 1920s, it brings to life the world of the famous Mitford sisters-a group of aristocratic sisters who became notorious for their contrasting political views, personal relationships, and societal roles. As Jessica Fellowes skillfully navigates through this historical backdrop, she uncovers mysteries that keep readers at the edge of their seats. But with multiple books in the series, one might wonder: Is there a right way to approach the reading of these novels? Should they be consumed in a specific order to gain the most out of the experience?

This article will dive deeply into Jessica Fellowes’ books, providing an overview of the Mitford Murders series, explaining the reading order, sharing what makes the series so appealing, and ultimately answering the question of whether it’s essential to read her books in a specific sequence.

List Of Jessica Fellowes Books In Order

More On Jessica Fellowes Books In Chronological Order

1. Murder on the Orient Express: The Official Hour-by-Hour Companion (2017)

Okay, this one’s a bit of a departure from the usual mystery novels that Jessica Fellowes is known for! This book dives deep into Agatha Christie’s classic ’Murder on the Orient Express’ like a true fan’s dream. It breaks down the action hour by hour, offering insights into every twist and turn of the plot. Fellowes uses her expertise to give a fresh perspective, helping fans appreciate every little detail that makes this story so iconic. If you’re a die-hard mystery fan, this book will absolutely hit the spot!

2. The Mitford Murders (2017)

This is where it all begins with the ’Mitford Murders’ series! We’re transported to the 1920s, where the Mitford sisters-who, let’s be honest, were already fascinating figures in real life-are woven into a fictional murder mystery. Jessica Fellowes introduces the smart and charming Louisa Cannon, who becomes embroiled in a shocking murder while working for the Mitford family. The setting of 1920s Britain adds so much flavor, and Fellowes does a stellar job blending real history with fictional intrigue. It’s like Downton Abbey meets a cozy crime novel!

3. Bright Young Dead (2018)

In ’Bright Young Dead,’ the series continues with Louisa Cannon’s adventures. This time, Louisa finds herself wrapped up in the death of a glamorous young woman at an exclusive London party. The 1920s world of jazz, excess, and socialites is beautifully captured in this book. And I have to say, Fellowes really knows how to create tension without making it feel rushed. There’s a delicious slow burn to the suspense as the reader gets deeper into the lives of the characters-and you’ll be shocked by how much everyone has to hide!

4. Death in the Clouds (2019)

If you thought Jessica Fellowes only had the knack for 1920s murder mysteries, think again! ’Death in the Clouds’ expands Louisa’s adventures as she now finds herself investigating a murder that takes place mid-air. We’re talking about a plane journey with a murder that literally happens in the clouds. It’s a bit of a nod to Agatha Christie’s ’Death in the Clouds,’ but Fellowes gives it her own twist with the vivid setting and historical depth. The intrigue is high, and Louisa’s investigative instincts get sharper, making it a must-read if you’ve loved her previous works!

5. The Mitford Vanishing (2020)

Here’s another gem in the Mitford series! In ’The Mitford Vanishing,’ Louisa is once again thrust into a world of mystery, but this time it’s much more personal. A member of the Mitford family is entangled in a potential scandal, and there’s the looming presence of a disappearance that unravels everything. Fellowes continues to explore the chaotic, often complex relationships within the Mitford family, blending the historical context of their lives with the thrilling twists of a classic whodunit. It’s a great addition to the Mitford series, keeping that juicy blend of history and murder going strong.

6. The Mitford Scandal (2021)

The final chapter in the Mitford series (for now, at least), ’The Mitford Scandal,’ delivers a satisfying and dramatic conclusion to Louisa Cannon’s story. The Mitford sisters and their connections continue to be at the heart of the action, with another sinister mystery needing Louisa’s keen eye to unravel. In this book, Fellowes digs deep into the characters’ personal lives, as the family’s tangled web of secrets starts to emerge in full force. If you’ve enjoyed the other books in this series, this one will absolutely wrap things up in a compelling way while still leaving you wanting more.

Background On Jessica Fellowes Books

Jessica Fellowes is a talented writer whose roots in storytelling are firmly grounded in a blend of history and fiction. She is best known for her Mitford Murders series, which draws heavily on the real-life Mitford sisters. These sisters were the epitome of 20th-century British aristocracy, and each had a significant impact on British culture, politics, and history. They are, in fact, a fascinating group of women whose complex personalities and actions have inspired several books, documentaries, and studies.

Fellowes’ series, however, is not simply about the sisters themselves. Instead, she uses their lives as a backdrop for a murder mystery series that involves a fictional character-Louisa, a fictional maid-turned-detective who works for the Mitfords. Throughout the novels, Louisa embarks on complex investigations that intertwine with the world of high society, offering a glimpse into the glamorous yet dangerous world of the English elite during the interwar period.

The first book in the series, The Mitford Murders, was released in 2017 and introduced readers to Louisa and her unlikely partnership with the Mitford family. Each subsequent book delves deeper into different aspects of British society, from the aristocracy to the working class, with Fellowes’ meticulous attention to historical detail bringing the interwar period vividly to life.

The Mitford Murders series is a blend of historical fiction and cozy mystery. While the setting and characters are grounded in real historical events, the mysteries themselves are fictional, offering readers an exciting exploration of whodunit puzzles. Fellowes deftly weaves together personal drama, social tensions, and a layer of suspense, making the books accessible both to history buffs and lovers of mystery novels.

Reading Order Explained

Jessica Fellowes’ Mitford Murders series is best enjoyed in order. The books are connected through recurring characters, ongoing personal arcs, and a developing narrative. To get the most out of the series, starting with the first book and progressing sequentially is the recommended approach.

Here is the recommended reading order for Jessica Fellowes’ Mitford Murders series:

1. The Mitford Murders (2017)

   • This is the book that introduces readers to Louisa, the Mitford family, and the first murder mystery that intertwines their lives. Set in the 1920s, the book captures the atmosphere of post-WWI Britain, and sets the stage for Louisa’s future involvement with the Mitford family.

2. Bright Shiny Morning (2018)

   • In the second book, Louisa becomes more deeply entangled with the Mitford sisters and their circle. This time, the plot centers around a new mystery, but the personal and emotional growth of the characters is a key aspect of the story.

3. The Mitford Scandal (2019)

   • This book digs into some of the darker corners of aristocratic life and the secrets that lie beneath the glamorous surface. Here, Louisa faces new challenges as she investigates a scandal that threatens to disrupt the Mitford family.

4. The Mitford Trial (2020)

   • The tension reaches new heights in the fourth installment, where Louisa is forced to confront powerful adversaries. As the series progresses, the stakes get higher, and personal relationships evolve against the backdrop of a thrilling mystery.

5. The Mitford Vanishing (2021)

   • In the most recent book in the series, Louisa faces one of her most complex cases yet, with the Mitford family dynamics under greater scrutiny than ever. It is a fitting continuation that wraps up several character arcs while introducing new twists and turns.

While this is the official reading order for the Mitford Murders series, it’s important to note that each book is somewhat self-contained. The mysteries are wrapped up by the end of each novel, but the overarching character development and world-building across the books is best experienced in sequence.

What I Like About The Series?

What truly sets Jessica Fellowes’ Mitford Murders series apart from other historical mysteries is the way it so seamlessly blends rich historical detail with fast-paced, engaging narratives. Fellowes does not just present us with a simple whodunit-she immerses readers in a world that feels vibrant and fully realized. From the opulent estates to the bustling streets of 1920s London, every scene is carefully constructed, allowing readers to feel as though they are stepping into another era.

A significant part of the appeal is the character of Louisa. Unlike the traditional hard-boiled detective or amateur sleuth, Louisa is grounded in her working-class roots, providing a refreshing perspective amidst the upper-class milieu of the Mitfords. Her empathy, intelligence, and personal growth make her a likable protagonist that readers root for. Her relationship with the Mitford sisters is intriguing-while she’s their employee, she becomes entwined with their lives, uncovering secrets and forming personal bonds along the way.

The historical aspect of the books is another standout feature. Fellowes brings to life the turbulent post-WWI period, where social, political, and cultural changes were transforming British society. The Mitford family, with its various real-life members, provides a fascinating lens through which to explore these shifts. Fellowes captures the complex dynamics between the Mitford sisters, their friends, and the wider political landscape, giving the reader a sense of both the glamour and the tension that marked this period.

Finally, the mysteries themselves are well-crafted, often featuring clever twists and red herrings that keep the reader guessing until the very end. While the focus is on the characters and their personal journeys, the central mysteries provide a compelling thread that makes each book hard to put down.

Should You Read Jessica Fellowes Books In Order?

Yes, reading the books in order is highly recommended. As mentioned earlier, the Mitford Murders series is character-driven, and following the books in order allows you to witness the development of Louisa and her interactions with the Mitford family. While each novel has its own self-contained mystery, the characters evolve over the course of the series, and reading the books in sequence gives you the most satisfying experience.

Moreover, Fellowes occasionally references previous events and character developments, so reading in order will prevent any confusion and enrich your understanding of the characters’ motivations. While it’s possible to jump into any of the books as a standalone, experiencing the series from the beginning will offer a deeper connection to the characters and the world they inhabit.