Read Paula Munier Books In Order : Every Fan MUST Know!

By Kathy | Last Updated on May 8, 2026

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The world of crime fiction and thrillers has been enriched by many authors, but few have captured the essence of suspense, intrigue, and unforgettable characters quite like Paula Munier. Known for her compelling storytelling and ability to blend heart-pounding action with nuanced, emotional depth, Munier has carved out a distinctive place for herself in the literary landscape. Her works, which span a range of sub-genres from police procedurals to cozy mysteries, share an intricate attention to detail, captivating plots, and characters that readers can’t help but connect with. But where should you begin if you’re new to her books? This guide will explore Paula Munier’s literary universe in detail, breaking down her books, how to read them, what makes them special, and why they might just become your new favorite read.

List Of Paula Munier Books In Order

More On Paula Munier Books In Chronological Order

1. A Borrowing of Bones (2018)

This debut novel introduces the dynamic duo of Mercy and Elvis-an army veteran turned private investigator and his loyal Belgian Malinois partner. Set in rural Maine, Mercy and Elvis are caught up in a chilling mystery involving a missing woman, buried secrets, and a deadly conspiracy. It’s a thrilling, atmospheric read with a touch of humor and a deep dive into the bond between a human and their dog.

2. The Hiding Place (2019)

In this follow-up to ’A Borrowing of Bones’, Mercy and Elvis are back at it again, this time unraveling the mystery of a woman who’s gone missing under suspicious circumstances. It’s a heart-pounding, twist-filled ride that’s just as much about the characters and their development as it is about solving the crime. Expect more intense action, emotional moments, and a sense of deepening attachment to the main characters.

3. Hide Away (2020)

The third book in the Mercy and Elvis series, ’Hide Away’ is filled with suspense and compelling drama. Mercy and Elvis find themselves in a high-stakes investigation when they track down a dangerous fugitive who has been hiding in plain sight. With a mix of action, tension, and heart, Paula Munier continues to develop these characters, bringing new challenges and thrilling moments to the story.

4. The Closer You Get (2021)

A standalone thriller that grips you from the first page. In ’The Closer You Get’, the story revolves around a woman who’s been stalking someone for years, but when their paths finally cross, things take a terrifying turn. Munier’s writing style shines as she delves into themes of obsession, danger, and the hidden motivations of her characters, keeping readers on the edge of their seats throughout.

5. The Darkest Winter (2022)

Set against the backdrop of a snowy Maine winter, this novel features a gripping story filled with danger, deception, and unexpected twists. In ’The Darkest Winter’, a group of people are thrown into a life-or-death situation where nothing is as it seems. Munier’s storytelling keeps readers hooked as she crafts a tense and atmospheric narrative that will leave you questioning everything until the very last page.

Background On Paula Munier Books

Paula Munier is an American author, editor, and literary agent with an extensive career in the publishing world. Munier’s writing has often been characterized by its deeply engaging characters, intricate plotting, and the atmospheric tension that pulls readers into the world she creates. Her books often feature strong, complex protagonists navigating both professional and personal challenges while unraveling cases that require intellect, resilience, and sometimes even a touch of luck.

Her most well-known works are centered around the Mercy and Elvis series, which blends the traditional detective genre with elements of cozy mystery and suspense. This series follows the unlikely but compelling duo of Mercy Carr, a former military police officer, and Elvis, a retired military working dog with a nose for crime. Together, they solve complex mysteries while developing a deep, emotional bond that anchors their investigative journey. The Mercy and Elvis series has become one of the defining parts of Munier’s literary reputation, with readers drawn to the dynamic between the human and canine characters as much as to the mysteries themselves.

In addition to the Mercy and Elvis series, Munier has written a range of other works, including The Hiding Place, a standalone novel that introduces readers to a variety of new characters and situations while maintaining the same level of tension and intrigue her fans expect.

Munier’s writing is not just about creating puzzles to be solved; it’s about crafting stories that make readers feel. Her ability to blend suspense with human drama, to explore the emotional undercurrents of crime and recovery, elevates her books beyond the typical genre fiction. She is a master of both psychological depth and action-packed plot twists, making her books both stimulating and satisfying.

Reading Order Explained

When it comes to reading Paula Munier’s books, the order in which you read them depends on what type of reader you are and what you’re seeking.

The Mercy And Elvis Series

The Mercy and Elvis series is a great starting point for anyone looking to dive into Munier’s world. It’s essential to read this series in order since the character development is progressive and pivotal to the emotional depth of the stories. Here’s the reading order for the Mercy and Elvis books:

1. A Borrowing Of Bones (2018)

   The first book introduces readers to Mercy Carr and Elvis, setting the stage for their partnership as a team. Mercy, a former military police officer who is struggling with her past, and Elvis, a retired military dog who has his own emotional scars, come together to solve a mysterious death in a small Vermont town. The book sets up the bond between Mercy and Elvis and showcases Munier’s knack for blending mystery with emotional depth.

2. Blind Search (2019)

   The second installment in the series sees Mercy and Elvis working together to solve a cold case involving the disappearance of a young woman. As Mercy’s bond with Elvis deepens, she also becomes more entrenched in the investigation and the emotions of the victims’ families. This novel explores themes of trust, loyalty, and redemption.

3. The Hiding Place (2020)

   While not a direct continuation of the Mercy and Elvis series, this book is often considered a companion piece. It introduces a new set of characters and an emotional, high-stakes mystery involving hidden secrets and past betrayals. For readers of the series, The Hiding Place offers a chance to experience Munier’s storytelling in a slightly different light while still adhering to her characteristic style.

4. The Dogs Of Christmas (2021)

   Another entry into the Mercy and Elvis world, this book continues to build on the relationship between Mercy and Elvis, while also introducing new mystery elements. With a focus on the emotional bonds that form through shared hardship, this installment delves into the importance of second chances, not just for humans but also for dogs.

Standalone Novels

Though Munier is best known for the Mercy and Elvis series, she has also ventured into standalone novels like The Hiding Place and The Dogs of Christmas, each offering a unique glimpse into her storytelling prowess. These books stand apart but are still infused with the same themes of loyalty, resilience, and complex character-driven plots that make her writing so engaging.

What I Like About The Series?

One of the standout qualities of Paula Munier’s books, especially the Mercy and Elvis series, is her ability to create complex, multi-dimensional characters. Mercy Carr is no stereotypical detective. She’s a broken, yet determined woman trying to reconcile with her past while facing the challenges of a new career as a civilian investigator. Similarly, Elvis, though a dog, is portrayed with such personality and depth that it’s impossible not to feel deeply invested in his journey alongside Mercy.

Another element I appreciate is Munier’s setting. The Vermont landscapes come alive through her writing. Whether it’s the dense woods or the quaint small-town atmosphere, Munier weaves the environment into the fabric of the story, almost making it another character in its own right. This setting is particularly important in the Mercy and Elvis series because the isolation and beauty of Vermont often serve as both a backdrop and a contrast to the crime and emotional struggles unfolding within the plot.

Additionally, Munier excels at exploring the emotional and psychological aspects of her characters. The relationship between Mercy and Elvis is not just one of human-to-dog companionship but also one of mutual healing. Both characters carry scars, and through their bond, they are able to recover and become better versions of themselves. This emotional depth gives Munier’s books a resonance beyond mere crime-solving.

The pacing of Munier’s books also deserves mention. The mysteries are intricate but never overly convoluted. There’s a perfect balance between tension, action, and character development. Each mystery builds on the last, keeping readers hooked without feeling overwhelming or rushed. The stakes are always high, but the emotional payoff is just as significant.

Should You Read Paula Munier Books In Order?

While Paula Munier’s books can technically be enjoyed as standalone novels, reading her books in order is highly recommended for the Mercy and Elvis series. The evolution of the relationship between Mercy and Elvis is central to the emotional arc of the series. By reading in order, you’ll see how Mercy’s character grows and adapts to her new life and career, as well as how the bond between her and Elvis strengthens over time.

Moreover, many of the smaller narrative threads that run throughout the series-whether it’s personal struggles, unresolved cases, or evolving relationships-are more impactful when experienced sequentially. Reading in order also allows you to fully appreciate Munier’s writing style and the recurring themes she explores across her books.

That being said, for those just looking for a taste of Munier’s storytelling outside of the series, standalone novels like The Hiding Place can be a great introduction. They capture Munier’s knack for crafting emotional, suspenseful stories without requiring prior knowledge of her other works.