Read Blake Pierce Books In Order : Every Fan MUST Know!

By Kathy | Last Updated on April 5, 2026

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Blake Pierce has made a name for himself as a prolific writer, particularly in the mystery and thriller genres. With a style that keeps readers on the edge of their seats, his books delve into the minds of both criminals and investigators, exploring the complexities of human behavior, the dark corners of the psyche, and the thin line between right and wrong. For fans of gripping psychological thrillers and fast-paced, character-driven narratives, Blake Pierce’s works are a treasure trove of suspenseful plots and intricate storylines. But with such a vast collection of novels, readers may find themselves wondering where to begin. In this article, we’ll take an in-depth look at Blake Pierce’s books, explore the recommended reading order, and discuss what makes his writing stand out, along with offering some insights on whether you should read his books in order.

List Of Blake Pierce Books In Order

More On Blake Pierce Books In Chronological Order

1. Before He Kills (2017)

The first book in the Avery Black series kicks things off with a twisty, thrilling ride! Detective Avery Black is tasked with solving a gruesome crime. This book is packed with suspense, and Blake Pierce does an excellent job of pulling you in with vivid characters and dark mysteries. Avery is an intense, intelligent protagonist who’s both vulnerable and fearless, which makes the story even more captivating.

2. The Perfect Wife (2018)

A gripping psychological thriller that dives deep into the mind of a man who’s convinced his wife is not who she claims to be. Full of unexpected twists and spine-chilling moments, this book keeps you guessing at every corner. Pierce builds tension beautifully, and the ending will leave you breathless!

3. The Girl He Loves (2019)

In this heart-pounding addition to the series, a young girl is found dead, and the investigation seems to reveal more questions than answers. Avery Black’s sharp instincts are put to the test as she follows a trail that leads to darker secrets. The plot builds nicely, keeping readers on the edge of their seats.

4. Once Gone (2018)

Blake Pierce introduces FBI Special Agent Riley Paige in this fast-paced, nail-biting thriller. Riley is tasked with investigating a serial killer who’s leaving bodies in shocking places. Pierce’s writing is tight, and the stakes are high. If you love thrilling mysteries with a tough, smart investigator, you’re going to devour this book.

5. Once Taken (2018)

The second book in the Riley Paige series amps up the stakes as Riley races against time to stop a killer who’s targeting young women. The tension is palpable, and the way Pierce develops Riley’s character is amazing. She’s complex, driven, and compassionate, which makes the story even more intense.

6. Once Blind (2018)

This one takes you deeper into Riley’s world as she faces her own demons while trying to catch a killer. The suspense is relentless, and Riley’s internal struggles are portrayed with such depth that it adds a raw, emotional layer to the gripping crime-solving. It’s hard to put down once you start!

7. The Perfect Alibi (2020)

A psychological thriller where a woman is caught up in a crime she doesn’t remember committing, and her fight to prove her innocence is fraught with mind games and twists. The way Pierce weaves her past and present together is impressive, and you’ll be on the edge of your seat trying to figure out what’s real and what’s not!

8. A Face in the Dark (2020)

This one follows Riley as she’s brought back into the case of a missing person. The book continues to explore the darkness in her life as she races against time to uncover the truth. The chilling atmosphere and the personal stakes make it an absolute page-turner.

9. The Girl Who Lived (2021)

A gripping thriller where a woman is the sole survivor of a horrific crime, and now she’s being hunted by the very person who was responsible. The suspense is high, and the twists are jaw-dropping. Blake Pierce crafts a thrilling, complex story that’s hard to stop reading!

10. The Silent Witness (2021)

In this one, Riley faces a chilling case involving a missing girl, and the clock is ticking. The tension is so high throughout the book, with Pierce expertly throwing in twists and misdirections. Riley’s character development shines as she faces her own struggles while also solving the case.

Background On Blake Pierce Books

Blake Pierce is an author renowned for his mastery of psychological thrillers and crime fiction. He is particularly celebrated for his two most well-known series: The Riley Paige Mysteries and The Mackenzie White Mysteries. These books, filled with twists, turns, and complex characters, have garnered a significant fanbase and established Pierce as a leading voice in contemporary thriller writing.

Pierce’s writing is centered around the experiences of strong, resilient female protagonists, often thrust into the heart of dark, mysterious investigations. His stories have an atmospheric quality, drawing readers into the world of crime, psychology, and suspense. What makes Blake Pierce’s books stand out is not just the sharpness of his plots but also the emotional depth of his characters, especially his protagonists, who struggle with their own pasts while seeking justice or solving mysteries.

His novels often feature a "series" format, where one book leads into the next, creating an immersive world where character development and narrative arcs build upon each other. This approach encourages readers to stay engaged throughout multiple books, as they follow their favorite characters’ journeys over time. With several series under his belt, Blake Pierce has proven himself capable of creating memorable, addictive reading experiences.

Reading Order Explained

Given the extensive body of work Blake Pierce has created, navigating the reading order can be tricky for newcomers. However, with a little guidance, readers can easily get into the groove of Pierce’s books. Let’s break down how to approach his major series:

1. The Riley Paige Mysteries

   This is arguably Blake Pierce’s most popular series, starting with the book Once Gone. The series follows FBI agent Riley Paige, a brilliant and emotionally scarred investigator who is haunted by the darkness of her past. Each book in the series builds on Riley’s complex character arc while delving deeper into various mysteries involving serial killers, kidnappers, and high-stakes crimes.

   The best way to approach the Riley Paige Mysteries is to read the books in order of their release. Starting with Once Gone, each novel introduces a new case for Riley while adding layers to her emotional and psychological complexity. The series consists of over 20 books, and while each book is self-contained, there is an overarching narrative that follows Riley’s growth as an investigator and her battle with her personal demons.

2. The Mackenzie White Mysteries

   Another gripping series by Blake Pierce, The Mackenzie White Mysteries introduces the character of Mackenzie White, an ambitious and intelligent FBI agent with a keen eye for detail and a passion for solving the toughest of crimes. The series kicks off with Once Taken, where Mackenzie faces a chilling case involving the disappearance of a child. Like Riley, Mackenzie is deeply affected by her past, and the novels explore how her experiences shape her approach to solving crimes.

   While The Mackenzie White Mysteries can be read separately, they share a thematic connection with the Riley Paige Mysteries, especially in terms of character development. If you’re a fan of the Riley Paige Mysteries, you’ll likely enjoy following Mackenzie’s evolution as a protagonist in this series as well.

3. The Keri Locke Mysteries

   This series is another fantastic addition to Blake Pierce’s roster. Keri Locke, a former detective turned private investigator, embarks on a quest to uncover the truth behind various disappearances and unsolved cases. The first book, A Face in the Dark, introduces readers to Keri’s world, where complex crimes and emotionally-driven investigations keep the pages turning.

   Like the other series, the Keri Locke Mysteries should be read in order for the full emotional and plot-driven experience. The books are intricately woven together, with Keri’s personal and professional life intertwining throughout the series.

What I Like About The Series?

There are several aspects of Blake Pierce’s books that stand out and make them irresistible to readers of the thriller genre:

1. Complex, Relatable Protagonists

   One of Pierce’s greatest strengths is his ability to create protagonists who are deeply flawed yet remarkably human. Whether it’s Riley Paige, Mackenzie White, or Keri Locke, each lead character is grappling with internal struggles that add emotional weight to their investigative endeavors. Their vulnerabilities make them relatable, and their determination to overcome their personal challenges adds an extra layer of depth to the books.

2. Psychological Depth

   Pierce’s writing delves into the psychology of crime, not just focusing on the perpetrators but also on the detectives who seek to solve the cases. His books offer insights into the criminal mind, exploring the motivations and emotional states behind heinous acts. The intricate exploration of human behavior makes his books not only thrilling but intellectually engaging as well.

3. Tight, Fast-Paced Plotting

   Blake Pierce excels at creating page-turning plots that unfold with rapid precision. Each chapter feels like a step closer to a thrilling conclusion, making it difficult to put the books down. His pacing is impeccable, and his mastery of suspense ensures that the tension remains high throughout each story.

4. Atmosphere And Setting

   Pierce’s use of atmospheric settings adds to the sense of mystery and suspense. Whether the story takes place in a bustling city or a quiet suburban neighborhood, the environment feels integral to the plot, with the setting itself sometimes becoming a character in its own right. This immersion in the world of the story draws readers in further.

Should You Read Blake Pierce Books In Order?

Yes, it’s highly recommended to read Blake Pierce’s books in order. While many of his novels are self-contained within their respective series, reading the books in chronological order enhances the character development and allows you to see how each protagonist grows and changes over time. The emotional arcs of the characters unfold across multiple books, and significant events in earlier stories often have lasting consequences in later ones.

Moreover, there are occasional crossover elements between the series, and reading the books in order ensures that you catch all the subtle references and evolving narrative threads. By following the recommended reading order, you’ll get the most out of the experience, and you’ll find yourself more invested in the characters and the overarching plots.