Read Amanda Quick Books In Order : Every Fan MUST Know!

By Kathy | Last Updated on July 8, 2026

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Amanda Quick is one of the most captivating and prolific authors in the world of historical romance and suspense. Known for her ability to blend thrilling mystery with heartfelt romance, Quick’s novels are a delightful escape for readers who enjoy clever plots, strong-willed characters, and intriguing settings. Her books often take place in the early 19th century, a time of mystery, social tension, and bold adventure, while her characters are frequently embroiled in complicated scenarios involving love, danger, and secrets.

Quick’s writing, while embracing the classic elements of historical romance, is infused with a distinctive touch of suspense and mystery, setting her apart from many others in the genre. Her books often feature heroines who are independent and ahead of their time, while the heroes are enigmatic and complex, with their own personal battles to overcome. As you delve into the world she’s created, you’ll find yourself entangled in thrilling plots that combine romance, intrigue, and clever detective work.

In this guide, we’ll explore Amanda Quick’s literary contributions, how her books are interconnected, and whether or not it’s important to read them in order. Whether you’re new to her work or a long-time fan, this overview will help you navigate her extensive bibliography and get the most out of her immersive storytelling.

List Of Amanda Quick Books In Order

More On Amanda Quick Books In Chronological Order

1. Mistress (1990)

This book kicks things off with the story of a brave, independent woman named Victoria. She’s been through a lot, but her life takes an unexpected turn when she meets the mysterious but undeniably charming Gabriel. The chemistry between them is intense, and it’s a romance filled with twists and turns. It’s one of those historical romances that blends a good mystery with sizzling attraction. If you’re into stories with strong female characters and brooding heroes, this one’s a treat.

2. Dancing with the Devil (1992)

Hold on tight because this book is a rollercoaster of intrigue, suspense, and romance! It follows the adventure of a woman named Daphne who finds herself caught up in a dangerous plot and ultimately in the arms of a man with a very dark past. There’s a lot of tension here as Daphne tries to figure out who to trust. This one combines passion with mystery, as it keeps you guessing who the villain is until the very end. A page-turner for sure.

3. The Paid Companion (1993)

If you’re into historical novels with a clever plot and a heroine who refuses to settle for anything less than her own happiness, this is one you need to check out. The book features the strong-willed and independent Rebecca, who becomes a paid companion to a wealthy but secretive man. What starts as a simple arrangement quickly becomes a lot more complicated, with sparks flying between Rebecca and her employer. This one has all the elements you love-mystery, romance, and a hero who’s hiding more than he lets on.

4. The Bride Wore Black (1994)

Here we go-Amanda Quick nails the blend of suspense, romance, and historical drama with this one. This book follows the story of a woman who has suffered a devastating loss and is bent on vengeance. In walks a hero who, of course, is not what he seems. The chemistry is undeniable, but the danger is ever-present as these two navigate secrets and lies. There’s a really cool suspense element, with a dash of danger, and of course, a healthy dose of passion.

5. Desire (1995)

In this book, Amanda Quick introduces us to a world of desire, hidden motives, and slow-burn romance. The story follows a lady who finds herself entangled in a plot that is as dangerous as it is thrilling. As she crosses paths with the mysterious hero, sparks fly, and the two are forced to confront their feelings while also solving a mystery that could change everything. It’s full of twists and definitely makes you want to keep turning the pages.

6. The Third Victim (1996)

If you’re looking for a historical romance with a dark twist, then this book will be right up your alley. The Third Victim follows a woman caught up in a series of events that put her life at risk. She’s got to put her trust in a man who might be just as dangerous as the threats around her, but their growing connection is undeniable. It’s a page-turner that mixes suspense with romance, keeping you hooked from start to finish.

7. So This is Love (1997)

Amanda Quick brings us another historical romance, but this time with a little more humor and light-heartedness. The book follows a marriage of convenience that turns into something more complicated-and much more passionate-than either character could’ve expected. With tons of charm, this book delivers a sweet yet adventurous romance that keeps you smiling and swooning throughout.

8. The Girl Who Knew Too Much (1998)

Now, this book is an absolute gem for fans of mysteries and suspense. The heroine, a woman with a mysterious past, is thrown into a whirlwind of danger and secrets as she teams up with a man who’s just as intrigued by her as he is suspicious of her motives. There’s intrigue, there’s danger, and, of course, a growing romance that keeps you turning the pages. If you’re a fan of books that mix romance with a healthy dose of suspense, this one’s for you.

9. The Secret Sister (2001)

A thrilling mix of romance, family secrets, and hidden motives. The story follows a woman who gets swept up in a mystery involving her late sister’s life. As she unravels the secrets of her family, she also finds herself falling for the complicated man who helps her on her journey. There’s emotional depth, plenty of suspense, and a swoon-worthy romance. Amanda Quick has this great way of making you fall in love with her characters while keeping you on the edge of your seat.

10. Ravished (2003)

Ah, Ravished is one of Amanda Quick’s most popular books-and for good reason. It’s a compelling romance filled with secrets, passion, and an unforgettable hero and heroine. The plot follows a woman who’s swept away by a mysterious stranger, and let’s just say that sparks fly between them from the very beginning. It’s not just about romance though; there’s a real sense of danger and suspense that makes this one a captivating read from cover to cover.

11. Blackmail (2004)

A delicious historical romance filled with twists and turns, Blackmail keeps you guessing all the way through. The heroine is the victim of a blackmail scheme, and in order to escape, she joins forces with a man who is equal parts dangerous and charming. Their slow-burn romance is filled with tension and intrigue, and you’ll be hooked from the very first page.

12. The Perfect Poison (2007)

A perfect blend of historical intrigue and passion. This book follows the story of a woman who is caught in a deadly game involving poisons and dangerous secrets. Enter the mysterious hero, who’s both dark and irresistible. Their chemistry is off the charts, but they have to work together to uncover the truth before it’s too late. The plot is fast-paced, and the romance is the perfect mix of forbidden and passionate.

Background On Amanda Quick Books

Amanda Quick is actually one of the pen names used by the prolific author Jayne Ann Krentz. Under this alias, she focuses on historical romance novels, often set in the Regency or Victorian eras. Krentz, an author of contemporary romance and suspense as well, chose the name Amanda Quick to create a distinct identity for her historical works. While her books as Jayne Ann Krentz often deal with modern-day settings and contemporary mysteries, as Amanda Quick, her works delve into the past with a particular emphasis on romance, adventure, and detective-style plots.

Quick’s historical novels tend to follow a similar thematic formula. Most feature a heroine who is intelligent, resourceful, and capable of taking care of herself, though often thrust into situations where her skills are tested to the limit. The heroes in these books are usually mysterious, wealthy men who may have dark secrets or hidden vulnerabilities. They meet their match in the strong-willed women they encounter, resulting in a partnership that is often as much about intellectual equality as it is about romantic chemistry.

The settings of Quick’s novels are varied but often take place in English or American locales during the Regency, Victorian, or early 19th century periods, a time known for its fascinating social dynamics, manners, and rigid societal expectations. Against this backdrop, Amanda Quick crafts tales that are rich with tension, mystery, and romance. Her books are typically standalone novels, though many are part of loosely connected series or feature recurring characters.

Reading Order Explained

The reading order of Amanda Quick’s books can be somewhat straightforward, though the inclusion of recurring characters and connections between the novels might prompt some readers to wonder if there is a better way to experience the stories. Below is an explanation of the different series within the Amanda Quick catalog, as well as how they are best read to get the most out of the intricate world she’s created.

1. The Burning Cove Series

   This series is set in the 1930s in the fictional California town of Burning Cove. It’s one of Amanda Quick’s most popular modern historical romance series, blending glamour, suspense, and romance in a way that readers adore. The series features a group of colorful characters who work together to solve mysteries, from private investigators to glamorous actresses and daring spies. The recommended reading order for this series is as follows:

   • The Girl Who Knew Too Much (2017)
   • The Other Lady Vanishes (2018)
   • Close Up (2019)
   • The Lady Has a Past (2020)

2. The Ladies Of Lantern Street Series

   Set in Victorian England, this series follows women who possess unusual abilities, many of which involve psychic phenomena. The novels in this series feature bold, strong heroines who navigate a society that doesn’t understand their gifts while also dealing with romance, mystery, and intrigue. The books in this series should be read in order, as they are connected by overarching plotlines and recurring characters. The reading order is:

   • The Mystery Woman (2013)
   • The Bride Wore Scarlet (2014)
   • The Girl Who Knew Too Much (2015)

3. The Arcane Society Series (The Arcane Society Universe)

   This series, which began with the Arcane Society books, is a sweeping tale of mystery, suspense, and supernatural abilities, set against the backdrop of both the Victorian era and the early 20th century. The novels in this series are connected through the fictional Arcane Society, a secretive organization that hunts dangerous paranormal threats. The interconnected stories in this series span multiple generations and timelines, blending romantic intrigue with thrilling paranormal mystery. Here’s the recommended reading order:

   • Beyond the Moon (2007)
   • The River’s Edge (2008)
   • The Shadow (2008)
   • The Night Watch (2009)

4. Standalone Novels

   While Amanda Quick is best known for her series, she has also written many standalone novels. These are perfect for readers looking for a self-contained story, often featuring complex mysteries and engaging romantic plots. These novels can be enjoyed independently of each other, as they do not share characters or settings. Some of her most beloved standalones include:

   • Ravished (1992)
   • Seduction (1995)
   • Desire (1998)

What I Like About The Series?

One of the most appealing aspects of Amanda Quick’s books is her skillful blending of genres. The combination of historical romance with elements of suspense and mystery keeps the reader engaged from start to finish. Quick doesn’t just focus on romantic attraction but also builds her plots around complex investigations, often involving secrets, family legacies, and hidden identities. The mysteries that unfold in her books are often as captivating as the romantic developments, giving her novels an intriguing and multifaceted depth.

Additionally, her heroines are particularly well-crafted. They are never just passive figures who exist to be swept away by a dashing hero. Instead, they are intelligent, determined, and capable of standing on their own in a world that often expects them to conform to society’s strict rules. This makes them particularly relatable and empowering for readers.

Quick’s settings are another highlight. Whether it’s the glamorous atmosphere of 1930s California or the misty streets of Victorian London, her world-building adds a layer of richness to the plot. Her attention to detail in the social and cultural norms of her chosen periods is impressive, drawing readers into an immersive experience.

Lastly, Quick’s wit and sharp dialogue make her books highly enjoyable. There’s often an air of lightness and humor to her writing, even when the stakes are high. Her characters’ banter and internal monologues are both entertaining and insightful, adding an additional layer of charm to the overall narrative.

Should You Read Amanda Quick Books In Order?

While most of Amanda Quick’s novels can be read independently of each other, there are certain series where reading the books in order can enhance the experience. For example, in the Ladies of Lantern Street and Arcane Society series, characters appear across multiple books, and the storylines build on one another. In these cases, reading in order will allow you to fully appreciate the development of characters and the intricacies of the overarching plots.

On the other hand, her standalone novels are self-contained and can be enjoyed without worrying about the sequence in which they are read. These books offer a full and satisfying experience, even if you read them out of order. If you’re starting with a particular series, it’s always best to follow the recommended order to avoid spoilers and to appreciate the gradual evolution of the characters and their relationships.