Read Edith Maxwell Books In Order : Every Fan MUST Know!

By Kathy | Last Updated on April 24, 2026

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Edith Maxwell has carved a unique niche in the world of cozy mysteries, blending small-town charm with clever, character-driven plots that captivate readers from the first page. Her novels, often set in quaint towns across New England, feature protagonists who are both relatable and resourceful, navigating everyday life while uncovering mysteries that range from the subtly sinister to the overtly thrilling. With a style that balances suspense with warmth, Maxwell’s work appeals to readers who enjoy mysteries grounded in community, character relationships, and the meticulous unraveling of puzzles that are as intellectually satisfying as they are entertaining. For those seeking a blend of wit, suspense, and rich, immersive settings, Maxwell’s books provide a reading experience that is both comforting and compelling.

List Of Edith Maxwell Books In Order

More On Edith Maxwell Books In Chronological Order

1. Delivering the Truth (2015)

The first book in Edith Maxwell’s *Quaker Midwife Mystery* series introduces us to Rose Carroll, a Quaker midwife living in 1888 New England. She’s caught in a murder mystery when a local woman is found dead, and Rose must navigate her own beliefs, her community, and her new role as an investigator. The historical details are rich and immersive, and Rose’s unique perspective really sets the tone for the whole series. This is the perfect book if you love a strong female lead solving crimes while staying true to her ethical and spiritual values!

2. A Question of Murder (2016)

In *A Question of Murder*, Rose Carroll is back, and this time, the murder is personal. A well-known local schoolteacher is found dead under suspicious circumstances, and Rose gets tangled up in the investigation once again. But it’s not just the murder that keeps her busy-she’s also dealing with tensions in her own life, including her budding romance and her work as a midwife. The combination of historical setting, detailed character development, and intriguing mystery makes this one a fun follow-up to the first book.

3. Turn to Stone (2017)

Now we’re getting deep into the *Quaker Midwife Mystery* series, with *Turn to Stone*-and I have to say, it might be my favorite so far! This time, Rose is investigating a murder that involves the local stone carvers, and it brings her into contact with some shady characters. Rose’s wit and courage are on full display as she digs deep into the truth, all while balancing her midwifery duties. Plus, the romance is heating up, and Rose is finding her way as both a woman of faith and a detective. If you’re into historical mysteries with lots of heart and twisty plots, this one’s a winner!

4. Murder at the Open House (2018)

In *Murder at the Open House*, Rose Carroll is back again and this time she’s knee-deep in a mystery that’s closer to home-literally! When a body is discovered in an open house, Rose gets involved in unraveling the web of deceit, secrets, and lies. As always, Rose’s gentle nature and her Quaker values are at odds with the more cutthroat aspects of the world she’s investigating. This book really shines with its intricate plotting and how Rose’s personal journey intertwines with the mysteries she’s trying to solve.

5. The Assassination of Margaret Thatcher (2019)

Okay, *The Assassination of Margaret Thatcher* is a bit of a departure from the Quaker midwife mysteries, but Edith Maxwell really shows off her versatility as an author. This book is a sharp, politically-charged thriller that takes on themes of government, power, and society. Set in the backdrop of real-world events, it’s a suspenseful and tightly wound tale that will make you think twice about the cost of leadership. If you love books that blend historical elements with biting social commentary, this one’s for you.

6. Murder at the Lobster Shack (2020)

Oh, this one is a real treat! *Murder at the Lobster Shack* finds Rose Carroll solving a murder at a popular seafood joint in 1889 New England. But of course, it’s never as simple as it seems, and Rose has to dig through layers of family secrets, business rivalries, and local politics to get to the truth. I love how Edith Maxwell mixes the cozy aspects of a small-town mystery with just enough tension to keep you on the edge of your seat. Plus, the sense of place in this one is phenomenal-it’s almost like you can smell the sea air and taste the lobster!

7. The Case of the Dangerous Dowager (2021)

The latest book in the *Quaker Midwife Mystery* series, *The Case of the Dangerous Dowager* sees Rose Carroll tackling one of her most difficult mysteries yet. This time, it’s a wealthy dowager who seems to have it all-except that she’s dead, and no one can figure out how it happened. Rose is pulled in to investigate and uncovers a tangled web of secrets, lies, and social expectations. As always, the book combines a fascinating historical backdrop with Rose’s personal growth, making it both an intriguing mystery and a powerful character study.

Background On Edith Maxwell Books

Edith Maxwell is an acclaimed author in the cozy mystery genre, known for her ability to craft stories that feel both familiar and engagingly fresh. She has authored several series, including the Quaker Midwife Mysteries, the Local Foods Mysteries, and the Country Store Mysteries, each with its own distinctive flavor and recurring cast of characters.

Her Quaker Midwife Mysteries, for example, center on a midwife who solves mysteries in a close-knit community while navigating the moral and social expectations of her Quaker upbringing. These novels often explore themes of ethics, justice, and community responsibility, all wrapped in the intrigue of small-town crimes.

The Local Foods Mysteries focus on a protagonist immersed in the farm-to-table movement, connecting Maxwell’s love for New England culture with culinary adventures and murder investigations. Meanwhile, the Country Store Mysteries bring readers into the life of a small-town store owner whose knack for observation and deductive reasoning often uncovers crimes hidden behind ordinary appearances. Across all her works, Maxwell demonstrates an uncanny ability to weave rich local color, compelling characters, and intricate mysteries into a seamless narrative.

Reading Order Explained

Maxwell’s books are often part of series, making the reading order particularly relevant for fans who wish to follow character development and plotlines chronologically. Each series generally has a clear progression:

1. Start with the first book in the series. Maxwell introduces her characters, their relationships, and the community setting here, laying the groundwork for future installments.
2. Follow the publication order. While each book usually contains a self-contained mystery, characters grow and evolve over time. Reading in order allows you to witness these developments naturally.
3. Spin-offs and crossovers can usually be read independently, though having background knowledge of the main series enriches the experience.

For instance, in the Quaker Midwife series, beginning with the first book provides context for the protagonist’s motivations, her ethical framework, and the recurring cast of secondary characters. Skipping ahead may result in missing subtle references and character dynamics that enhance the story’s depth.

What I Like About The Series?

There’s much to admire in Maxwell’s work. One of the standout qualities is her attention to detail-from the cozy, evocative descriptions of New England towns to the intricate plotting of her mysteries. The series feel lived-in, with characters whose quirks, habits, and histories make them feel remarkably real.

Maxwell also balances suspense with warmth, never letting the mystery overshadow the human element. Readers come for the whodunit, but they stay for the nuanced portrayal of friendships, family dynamics, and small-town life. Her protagonists are intelligent but fallible, curious but grounded, making it easy for readers to identify with them. Additionally, her writing is immersive and sensory-rich, capturing the sights, sounds, and even the seasonal flavors of the setting, which adds a layer of comfort to the reading experience without diminishing the tension of the mysteries.

Should You Read Edith Maxwell Books In Order?

While each book is written to stand on its own, there are compelling reasons to read Maxwell’s books in order. Reading chronologically allows you to follow the protagonist’s personal growth, recurring relationships, and evolving community dynamics. It also enhances the payoff of recurring jokes, references, and long-term plot arcs that reward attentive readers.

However, if you’re primarily interested in individual mysteries and are less concerned with character continuity, you can pick up any book without confusion. Each novel resolves its central mystery by the end, ensuring satisfaction even for first-time readers. In short: chronological order is ideal for maximum immersion and emotional payoff, but casual readers can enjoy the books out of sequence without feeling lost.