Read Rhys Bowen Molly Murphy Books In Order : Every Fan MUST Know!
By Kathy | Last Updated on March 22, 2026
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The Molly Murphy series by Rhys Bowen has carved out a unique space in the world of historical mystery fiction. Blending rich historical settings, engaging characters, and intricate plots, the series offers readers a compelling narrative that spans multiple decades and locations, but all centered around a central character whose intelligence, wit, and moral compass guide the journey. If you’re a fan of historical mysteries with a vibrant, nuanced protagonist, the Molly Murphy books are a perfect choice.
Set against the backdrop of early 20th-century New York, the Molly Murphy series takes readers on a journey through the growing pains of a rapidly modernizing society, where social, political, and economic issues are constantly at the forefront. From its debut novel to the most recent entries in the series, these books offer an immersive experience that goes beyond just solving crimes-they delve into the complexities of class, gender, and the immigrant experience in America during a pivotal era.
In this exploration, we’ll take an in-depth look at the Molly Murphy series, providing background information on the books, the reading order, and why this series has won the hearts of many. Whether you’re a newcomer to the world of Molly Murphy or a longtime fan, this guide will enhance your appreciation for Rhys Bowen’s masterful storytelling.
Contents
List Of Rhys Bowen Molly Murphy Books In Order
| Murphy’s Law (2001) | Details |
| Death of Riley (2002) | Details |
| For the Love of Mike (2003) | Details |
| In Dublin’s Fair City (2004) | Details |
| The Last Illusion (2005) | Details |
| Oh Danny Boy (2006) | Details |
| Death at Daisy’s (2007) | Details |
| Bloodline (2008) | Details |
| The Ghost of Christmas Past (2009) | Details |
| The Edge of Dreams (2013) | Details |
| The Family Way (2016) | Details |
| Let It Burn (2020) | Details |
| The Venice Train Murders (2022) | Details |
More On Rhys Bowen Molly Murphy Books In Chronological Order
1. Murphy’s Law (2001)
In the first book of the series, Molly Murphy, a feisty Irish immigrant in early 1900s New York, is on the run from the police after being accused of a murder she didn’t commit. As she escapes to America in search of a new life, she gets caught up in solving a murder, making her way through the gritty streets of New York. It’s a whirlwind of mystery, culture clash, and a dash of romance as Molly navigates her new life.
2. Death of Riley (2002)
Molly’s journey continues as she settles in New York City, but life doesn’t give her a break just yet. When she gets hired to investigate the mysterious death of a wealthy man, it pulls her deep into the world of high society and murder. The stakes are raised as Molly must balance her desire to uncover the truth with staying out of trouble with the law and her new acquaintances, including her growing attraction to a detective who may not be all he seems.
3. For the Love of Mike (2003)
Now working as a private investigator in New York, Molly gets an unusual case involving the disappearance of a young woman. While trying to track down the woman’s whereabouts, Molly uncovers some dark secrets hidden in the city’s underbelly. As the investigation gets messier, Molly also finds herself dealing with a budding romance and the personal challenges of living as an independent woman in the early 1900s.
4. In Dublin’s Fair City (2004)
Molly takes a trip back to Ireland in this novel, where she quickly realizes that the troubles of her homeland are far from over. When a murder occurs at a wedding, she’s once again drawn into solving a case while dealing with family tensions and the political struggles of Ireland in the early 20th century. It’s a fascinating look at Irish history, and Molly has to rely on her wits and determination to crack the case.
5. The Last Illusion (2005)
Molly’s investigation skills are put to the test in this mystery surrounding a theater troupe in New York. The lead actress dies in suspicious circumstances, and Molly is tasked with finding out if it’s murder or just a tragic accident. As she works her way through a world of stagecraft, secrets, and backstabbing, she faces her own personal challenges with romance and the ever-present danger of being caught by the authorities.
6. Oh Danny Boy (2006)
Molly is once again back in Ireland, this time at a family wedding that goes terribly wrong when the groom is found dead. What was supposed to be a joyful event turns into a tangled web of secrets, betrayals, and murder. Molly finds herself having to juggle family drama, old rivalries, and her own heartstrings as she tries to uncover the truth behind the death of her cousin’s fiancé.
7. Death at Daisy’s (2007)
Molly, now married and settled in New York, gets involved in a new mystery when a murder occurs at a party hosted by her friend, Daisy. As she investigates, she uncovers a series of shocking secrets that suggest a much darker side to her social circle. This book is filled with twists and turns, as well as Molly’s own personal development, showing her transition from a young immigrant to a savvy, confident investigator.
8. Bloodline (2008)
Molly faces an even more personal challenge in this installment, as the case she’s investigating puts her own family at risk. When a series of mysterious deaths seem to be tied to her own past, she must dig deep into her own family history to solve the case. As always, the tension is high, and her ability to balance her professional and personal life is tested in ways she never expected.
9. The Ghost of Christmas Past (2009)
Set around Christmas time, this novella sees Molly investigating a series of strange occurrences at a holiday party in New York. It’s the perfect mix of holiday cheer and spooky mystery as Molly works to uncover the truth behind the haunting. A lighter read but still full of intrigue, it offers a bit of festive mystery with the charm and wit that defines Molly’s character.
10. The Edge of Dreams (2013)
In this darker mystery, Molly is once again dealing with a case that feels too close to home. As she investigates a string of deaths that seem to be linked to a series of strange dreams, she uncovers a complex conspiracy involving powerful people with much to lose. The tension is palpable, and as always, Molly’s sharp mind and courage are tested as she takes on the forces trying to keep her from the truth.
11. The Family Way (2016)
Molly and her husband, Daniel, are about to have a baby, but their joy is overshadowed by a case involving a young woman who’s gone missing. As they search for answers, Molly finds herself caught between her new role as a mother-to-be and her relentless pursuit of justice. This book deals with personal growth and the challenges that come with starting a family while maintaining a demanding career.
12. Let It Burn (2020)
Set in the roaring 1920s, Molly is now firmly established in her life as a detective, but when a mysterious fire breaks out in a building where she’s been investigating, she gets pulled into yet another case involving danger and intrigue. She must navigate her own fears while trying to solve a case that may involve far more powerful forces than she realized. It’s a gripping story of resilience and cunning as Molly faces new challenges.
13. The Venice Train Murders (2022)
A change of scenery takes Molly on a train journey to Venice, where she becomes embroiled in a murder investigation that has international consequences. It’s a high-stakes mystery full of glamorous locations, hidden secrets, and fast-paced action. As Molly pieces together the truth, she discovers that danger knows no borders, and this case may change her life in ways she never expected.
Background On Rhys Bowen Molly Murphy Books
The Molly Murphy series, which began with the novel Murphy’s Law (2001), is a historical mystery series that introduces readers to the indomitable Molly Murphy. A young Irish immigrant in New York City at the turn of the 20th century, Molly’s quick wit, strong will, and relentless curiosity lead her into a career as a private detective, a role that was both unconventional and dangerous for a woman of that time. The series stands out not only for its fascinating plotlines but also for its vivid portrayal of New York City during a transformative period in American history.
The first book, Murphy’s Law, establishes the character of Molly as someone who refuses to be confined by the traditional roles society expects her to play. The narrative introduces readers to a city teeming with intrigue-immigration, labor disputes, suffrage movements, and industrialization. But what really sets Molly apart is her fearless approach to solving mysteries. She is an amateur detective driven by a deep sense of justice, and it doesn’t take long for her to prove that she is more than capable of taking on some of the toughest cases in the city.
Bowen’s historical knowledge and attention to detail make the series feel like a time capsule, pulling the reader into the realities of 1900s New York while keeping the story dynamic and gripping. Over time, the series has expanded into multiple volumes, each one building on the last, introducing new characters and subplots while continuing to focus on Molly’s personal growth and professional development.
Reading Order Explained
While it’s tempting to jump into any book in a series, the Molly Murphy books follow a chronological order that helps the reader follow Molly’s evolution as both a person and a detective. The books are best enjoyed in their proper sequence to understand the development of the overarching plot and character relationships.
Here is the recommended reading order for the series:
- Murphy’s Law (2001)
- Death of Riley (2002)
- For the Love of Mike (2003)
- In Dublin’s Fair City (2004)
- Oh Danny Boy (2005)
- The Last Illusion (2006)
- Blessed Are the Dead (2007)
- The Family Way (2008)
- The Edge of Dreams (2011)
- The Burning Man (2012)
- Time of Fog and Fire (2013)
- The Victory Garden (2016)
- The Tuscan Child (2018)
- The Royal Secret (2019)
- The Riviera Affair (2021)
These books span a number of years, and while they can be read as standalone novels, each one builds on the previous, offering deeper insights into Molly’s life. In particular, romantic subplots, family dynamics, and Molly’s transition from being an independent detective to a more settled woman take time to unfold, making the reading order especially important for understanding the trajectory of her character.
What I Like About The Series?
One of the key features of the Molly Murphy series is its sense of realism and the way it encapsulates the challenges and triumphs of being a woman in a rapidly changing world. Molly is not just a woman solving mysteries; she’s a woman carving out her own space in a society that often limits her. This feminist undertone is a recurring theme throughout the series and makes the books both thought-provoking and entertaining.
Rhys Bowen’s character development is another standout aspect of the series. Over the course of the books, readers witness Molly’s growth from a young, naïve immigrant to a sharp, self-assured detective who commands respect. Her relationships are equally well-developed, especially the slow-burning romance that unfolds between her and Detective Daniel Sullivan. Their chemistry and evolving relationship are carefully woven into the larger narrative, enhancing the emotional depth of the series.
Another strength is the historical richness of the setting. Bowen expertly integrates the political and social climate of the early 20th century into the narrative. The suffrage movement, labor strikes, the changing role of women in the workforce, and even the threat of terrorism in the form of anarchists-these issues are not merely backdrop but are essential to the plot. Bowen doesn’t shy away from depicting the grim realities of life in a rapidly industrializing city, but she also captures the hope and optimism that drive people to fight for change.
Finally, the mysteries themselves are consistently engaging. Bowen weaves complex, twisty plots with enough red herrings to keep readers on their toes. While there is a definite sense of resolution at the end of each novel, there’s also a lingering question of what’s next for Molly, creating a hook that pulls readers into the next installment.
Should You Read Rhys Bowen Molly Murphy Books In Order?
Yes, it is highly recommended to read the Molly Murphy books in order. The novels build upon each other, with the first book setting up the characters and essential relationships, while each successive book continues to evolve those connections. While each individual mystery is resolved within its respective book, the ongoing character arcs, particularly Molly’s development and personal life, are best appreciated in a linear progression.
By reading in order, you get to follow Molly’s gradual evolution-her transition from a more reactive character to someone who takes full control of her destiny. In addition, the series has overarching plots and subplots that are only fully appreciated when followed in sequence, such as the development of her relationship with Daniel Sullivan and her professional challenges as a woman in a male-dominated world. Furthermore, recurring characters, both antagonistic and supportive, evolve over time, making each new book feel like the next chapter in an ongoing saga.