Read Kim Harrison Books In Order : Every Fan MUST Know!
By Kathy | Last Updated on April 22, 2026
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The Hollows series by Kim Harrison has become a beloved fixture in the urban fantasy genre, captivating readers with its vibrant world-building, complex characters, and thrilling plots. Set in a unique alternate version of Cincinnati, Ohio, the books offer a mix of supernatural intrigue, magical dilemmas, and moral conflicts. Through the eyes of Rachel Morgan, a feisty witch, Harrison has crafted a series that explores themes of identity, friendship, redemption, and the constant struggle between good and evil.
Kim Harrison’s work has received significant praise for its ability to immerse readers in a rich, dark, and thrilling universe, where humans coexist with vampires, demons, witches, and other supernatural entities. The series has not only built a dedicated fanbase but has also influenced the direction of urban fantasy, carving out a space for novels that blend magic with crime, adventure, and complex interpersonal relationships.
But with a series as sprawling as The Hollows, which spans multiple books, novellas, and even a companion guide, navigating the reading order can be somewhat daunting. This guide will provide an in-depth look at the Hollows universe, the correct reading order for new readers, and explore why the series has garnered such devotion from its audience.
Contents
List Of Kim Harrison Books In Order
| Dead Witch Walking (2004) | Details |
| The Good, the Bad, and the Undead (2005) | Details |
| Every Which Way But Dead (2005) | Details |
| The Dead and the Gone (2006) | Details |
| A Fistful of Charms (2006) | Details |
| For a Few Demons More (2007) | Details |
| The Outlaw Demon Wails (2007) | Details |
| White Witch, Black Curse (2008) | Details |
| Black Magic Sanction (2009) | Details |
| Dead but Not Forgotten (2010) | Details |
| Death’s Excellent Vacation (2011) | Details |
| The Living Dead (2012) | Details |
| The Witch With No Name (2014) | Details |
More On Kim Harrison Books In Chronological Order
1. Dead Witch Walking (2004)
This is where it all begins! Meet Rachel Morgan, a sassy and no-nonsense witch who’s been expelled from the magical law enforcement agency and now works as a bounty hunter in a world where humans coexist with vampires, pixies, and demons. The story is packed with action, witty banter, and the kind of urban fantasy world-building that just pulls you in from page one. Rachel’s fierce independence and sarcastic voice make her instantly unforgettable.
2. The Good, the Bad, and the Undead (2005)
Rachel’s life just keeps getting messier, in the most entertaining way. Here, she dives headfirst into supernatural politics, deals with vampires with questionable morals, and gets dragged into situations where her sharp tongue is her best weapon. The story balances humor, danger, and just enough chaos to keep you laughing while clutching the book in suspense.
3. Every Which Way But Dead (2005)
Things escalate quickly in this third installment! Rachel is juggling multiple responsibilities and enemies, and the book doesn’t hold back on intense action scenes or complicated romantic tension. It’s fast-paced and full of the kind of sarcastic commentary from Rachel that makes you feel like she’s narrating her own life in real time-and honestly, that’s half the fun.
4. The Dead and the Gone (2006)
In this one, Rachel faces some seriously heavy stuff, including moral dilemmas and threats that hit closer to home than usual. The stakes feel higher, and you really start to see the depth behind her tough exterior. It’s darker than the previous books but still loaded with the witty, sassy energy that makes you root for her through every scrape.
5. A Fistful of Charms (2006)
This installment cranks up the humor and action while still letting Rachel wrestle with personal issues and complicated relationships. You get a mix of mystery, supernatural threats, and Rachel’s trademark sarcasm, plus a touch of romance. It’s like getting a rollercoaster ride with a guide who’s hilarious and slightly reckless.
6. For a Few Demons More (2007)
Things are really heating up now! Rachel and her friends are dealing with supernatural gang wars, personal betrayals, and of course, her usual sarcastic commentary on everyone and everything. This book has the perfect balance of tension, humor, and just enough heartbreak to make you want to hug the characters while shaking your head at their choices.
7. The Outlaw Demon Wails (2007)
Now we’re talking major stakes. Rachel is caught between moral choices and deadly enemies, and the action sequences are heart-pounding. But even in the darkest moments, Harrison sprinkles in Rachel’s witty, snarky voice, which makes the ride thrilling without being too grim. You get the sense the story is expanding, exploring deeper political and magical intrigue.
8. White Witch, Black Curse (2008)
Rachel’s life is never simple, and here it gets complicated in ways that are both thrilling and a bit heart-wrenching. She’s juggling power struggles, friendships that are tested, and, of course, the occasional romantic tension. It’s fast, witty, and packed with the kind of urban fantasy details that make you feel like you’re living in this magical underworld yourself.
9. Black Magic Sanction (2009)
This one really dives into the politics of the supernatural world while keeping Rachel’s personal journey front and center. There’s romance, betrayal, and of course, lots of sarcastic quips that make her voice feel so alive. The plot twists are clever, the stakes are high, and the pace will keep you flipping pages way past bedtime.
10. Dead but Not Forgotten (2010)
Things get darker and more intense here. Rachel faces enemies from all sides and the tension in her relationships with her friends and colleagues deepens. Harrison really balances the action and drama with Rachel’s humor, making this one feel like both a thrill ride and a deep dive into character development. You’ll find yourself cheering and groaning in equal measure.
11. Death’s Excellent Vacation (2011)
Rachel takes some unexpected detours in this one, and the story goes into high gear with political intrigue, magical battles, and of course, her trademark sarcastic commentary. The narrative is clever, exciting, and sprinkled with enough humor to offset the darker themes. It’s like she’s taking you on a whirlwind tour of the supernatural underworld.
12. The Living Dead (2012)
This is one of the heavier entries, dealing with loss, personal growth, and increasingly dangerous supernatural conflicts. But don’t worry, Rachel’s sarcastic narration still shines through, keeping things lively even in tense moments. It’s both an emotional and action-packed ride, showing Harrison’s skill at balancing humor, drama, and suspense.
13. The Witch With No Name (2014)
The series finale (for now) and what a conclusion! Rachel faces her ultimate challenges, both personally and in the supernatural world. It’s emotional, epic, and packed with action, and you really get a sense of closure while still feeling like the world could have more stories to tell. Rachel’s voice remains as sharp and witty as ever, and the ending is both satisfying and bittersweet.
Background On Kim Harrison Books
Kim Harrison, whose real name is Dawn Cook, is an American author known primarily for her urban fantasy novels. Before adopting the pen name Kim Harrison for her Hollows series, she wrote traditional fantasy novels, but it was in the urban fantasy genre that she truly found her success. Her debut in this genre came in 2004 with Dead Witch Walking, the first novel in the Hollows series.
The Hollows books center around Rachel Morgan, a witch turned private investigator who resides in a world where magic is real, and supernatural beings, such as vampires, demons, and elves, are as common as humans. The world-building in the series is one of its most captivating aspects; the novels take place in an alternate reality where a genetically engineered virus has decimated the human population, and magic users have taken over as the dominant force.
The series is known for its complex, morally grey characters, most notably Rachel, whose personal growth and struggle with her place in both the magical and human worlds is a central theme. Over the course of the series, Rachel deals with numerous challenges, including magical politics, betrayal, redemption, and the dark corners of the supernatural world. Along the way, she’s joined by a colorful cast of characters, including Ivy (a vampire), Jenks (a pixie), and a variety of supernatural creatures, each adding depth to the ongoing storyline.
Kim Harrison’s blend of action, suspense, romance, and character development has earned her a dedicated fan following, and her books have been praised for being able to balance action-packed sequences with deep, introspective moments. Her talent for creating a unique and immersive world has made the Hollows series one of the standout urban fantasy sagas of the 21st century.
Reading Order Explained
When it comes to reading Kim Harrison’s Hollows series, there is a specific order in which you should read the books to get the most out of the series’ complex narrative and character arcs. Here is the order in which the novels and associated works should be read:
Dead Witch Walking (Book 1)
The story begins with Rachel Morgan, a witch working as a bounty hunter in a world where magic is as natural as any other skill. In Dead Witch Walking, she makes a life-changing decision to leave her job at the law enforcement agency, known as the Inderland Security (IS), and start her own private investigation business.
The Good, The Bad, And The Undead (Book 2)
Rachel faces numerous challenges, including dealing with the vengeful vampire Ivy and unraveling a series of mysterious killings. As she delves deeper into the supernatural world, the stakes grow higher, and the tensions between the characters build.
Every Which Way But Dead (Book 3)
In this installment, Rachel is forced to confront even darker forces, and the balance between magic and mortality becomes increasingly fragile. She uncovers a secret society and has to fight against threats both magical and political.
A Fistful Of Charms (Book 4)
Rachel’s battle with an ancient demon takes center stage as she goes on a journey into the supernatural underworld to uncover secrets that could change the fate of the world.
For A Few Demons More (Book 5)
This book delves deeper into the politics of the supernatural world, especially involving demons. Rachel’s relationships with Ivy and Jenks continue to evolve, while she faces threats that challenge her on a personal and professional level.
The Outlaw Demon Wails (Book 6)
Rachel faces betrayals from all sides, and her personal morality is tested as she gets deeper into the demon world. Her struggle to maintain control of her powers while combating growing dark forces is at the heart of this book.
White Witch, Black Curse (Book 7)
The narrative shifts as Rachel uncovers the truth behind a series of mysterious deaths tied to the death of a close friend. Her personal growth as a character becomes more evident as she navigates through the fallout of previous events.
Black Magic Sanction (Book 8)
Rachel’s ties to both the human and magical worlds are pushed to their breaking point in this book. Her relationships with her friends, allies, and enemies are put to the test as she faces off against a new, highly dangerous adversary.
Pale Demon (Book 9)
Rachel heads to a magical convention to face an ancient trial that could determine her future as a witch. The stakes are higher than ever as she goes up against powerful foes and explores the darker corners of her world.
A Perfect Blood (Book 10)
The battle between good and evil intensifies in this installment, as Rachel faces off against some of the most powerful enemies she’s ever encountered. Her magical powers are tested, and she is forced to make decisions that will affect her future and that of the world around her.
Ever After (Book 11)
Rachel is forced to confront her worst fears and, as always, her sense of loyalty to her friends is tested. This book also sees significant development in Rachel’s relationship with her allies and enemies alike.
The Undead Pool (Book 12)
Rachel’s struggle to balance her moral compass and the demands of the supernatural world reach a boiling point. This book marks a pivotal moment in her character development and her relationship with both Ivy and Jenks.
Blood Crime (Novella)
This novella is a quick, high-action story that adds depth to the Hollows world and expands on certain side characters.
The Witch With No Name (Book 13)
The series finale. This book brings the entire saga to a close with a final battle that will determine the fate of Rachel, her friends, and the world they inhabit.
What I Like About The Series?
One of the standout features of The Hollows series is its richly built world. Kim Harrison doesn’t just create a world filled with magic, she makes the supernatural elements feel integrated into the fabric of the everyday. Whether it’s the politics of vampires, the intricacies of witchcraft, or the role of demons in society, every element is well thought-out and believable.
Another aspect I love is the character development. Rachel Morgan’s growth is one of the most compelling parts of the series. She begins as a character who is unsure of her place in the world, but through every book, you see her change-grow stronger, more confident, and more compassionate. Her relationships, particularly with Ivy and Jenks, are layered and real, which gives the books emotional depth.
The pacing and action in the books are also top-notch. Each novel manages to maintain a perfect balance of character-driven moments and high-octane action. The mysteries and conflicts keep you hooked, and there’s always a new twist or turn that adds to the excitement.
Should You Read Kim Harrison Books In Order?
Yes, absolutely. The Hollows series builds on itself, with each book layering more complexity to the characters, relationships, and overarching plot. Starting from the beginning allows you to fully appreciate the evolution of Rachel Morgan and the world she inhabits. It’s also crucial to read the books in order because many plotlines carry over from one book to the next, and early developments set up events that occur much later in the series.
If you’re someone who likes deep, layered worlds and complex character arcs, reading the books in order will give you the best experience.