Read Verity Kent Books In Order : Every Fan MUST Know!

By Kathy | Last Updated on March 28, 2026

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The Verity Kent mystery series, penned by Anna Lee Huber, presents readers with a captivating blend of historical intrigue, mystery, and compelling character development. Set in the turbulent aftermath of World War I, the series follows the exploits of Verity Kent, a strong-willed and resourceful woman navigating a world that is adjusting to new social norms, economic changes, and lingering shadows of wartime. The stories are intricately woven with suspense, emotional depth, and atmospheric settings, making the series an engaging read for fans of historical mysteries and strong female protagonists.

Huber’s ability to blend rich historical details with gripping plots is what makes the Verity Kent series stand out. As Verity delves into the mysteries around her, she uncovers hidden secrets, confronts her own emotional struggles, and faces challenges that test her courage and intelligence. Whether it’s solving a murder, uncovering wartime espionage, or navigating the societal changes of the post-war world, readers are constantly drawn into her journey. But before jumping into the world of Verity Kent, it’s helpful to understand the origins of the series, its reading order, and why it’s worth exploring.

List Of Verity Kent Books In Order

More On Verity Kent Books In Chronological Order

1. This Side of Murder (2017)

In this debut of the Verity Kent series, we meet Verity, a former secret agent from WWI, as she attends a memorial for her late husband. But things take a twist when a murder occurs at the gathering, and Verity’s espionage past might be the key to solving it. There’s romance, mystery, and plenty of twists as she uncovers layers of intrigue she wasn’t expecting to face.

2. Murder on the Left Bank (2018)

Verity’s back on the case, and this time she’s in Paris! A dead body is discovered, and once again, Verity’s skills from her time as a spy are needed to untangle a web of secrets. The Parisian setting adds a gorgeous backdrop to this suspenseful mystery, with a little romance thrown in the mix. Oh, and did I mention a charming new companion? Perfect for fans of historical whodunnits.

3. A Pretty Deceit (2019)

A blackmail letter sends Verity back into action. The third book in the series really digs deep into Verity’s past as secrets start to come to light. There’s a lot at stake as she navigates old friendships and dangerous foes. With high stakes and dangerous games, Verity must decide who she can really trust-and how much she’s willing to risk.

4. A Deadly Affair (2020)

Verity’s heart and her instincts are tested to the max as she investigates the murder of an aristocrat with ties to her own family. With espionage, familial betrayal, and a dash of romance, this book feels like it’s the most personal of them all. Verity uncovers some deep secrets, and the emotional payoff is huge, making it a compelling read for anyone invested in her journey.

5. Dangerous Secrets (2021)

In this installment, Verity faces her most dangerous mission yet. Someone from her past has resurfaced with new information that could change everything she’s worked for. There’s a delicate balance between personal and professional, as Verity’s world is thrown upside down. The stakes are high, and the emotional tension is palpable as she navigates life in a post-war world full of hidden dangers.

6. The Deadly Dish (2022)

Verity’s sharp wit and determination are on full display as she uncovers dark secrets hidden within the British aristocracy. The story brings plenty of intrigue, twists, and turns, as she faces yet another conspiracy that could unravel her entire life. It’s thrilling, with plenty of action and some deeper emotional moments to keep you hooked from start to finish.

Background On Verity Kent Books

The Verity Kent series is rooted in the historical context of post-World War I England, a period marked by societal upheaval and the lasting psychological scars of the Great War. Verity Kent, the protagonist, is a former British intelligence officer who served as a spy during the war. Upon the war’s end, she struggles to find her place in a rapidly changing world, where women are pushing for more independence and traditional gender roles are in flux.

The first book in the series, This Side of Murder, introduces readers to Verity as she returns to the family estate in Kent, only to find herself embroiled in a murder mystery that forces her to confront her own past and the people she once knew. From there, the series continues to follow Verity through a range of personal and professional challenges, as she uncovers deeper conspiracies and navigates the intricacies of post-war British society.

One of the most notable aspects of the series is how Anna Lee Huber integrates historical details seamlessly with the fictional narrative. The historical setting-ranging from the societal expectations placed on women to the lingering effects of the war-is as much a character in the story as Verity herself. Through her experiences, readers gain insight into the complexities of early 20th-century life, making the books a fascinating exploration of history through the lens of an engaging mystery.

Reading Order Explained

For readers new to the Verity Kent series, following the books in the correct order is crucial to understanding the evolving storylines and character arcs. While each novel in the series functions as a standalone mystery, there is a continuous development of Verity’s personal life, relationships, and the overarching mysteries she uncovers.

Here’s the recommended reading order of the Verity Kent books:

1. This Side of Murder (2017)
2. A Lesson in Love and Murder (2018)
3. The Deadliest Sin (2019)
4. An Artless Demise (2020)
5. The Vanishing Type (2021)
6. The Last Word (2022)
7. The Darkest Hour (2023)

Each of these books builds on the last, expanding the emotional and psychological depth of the characters. As the series progresses, Verity’s relationships evolve-particularly with her husband, Sidney, and her confidant, her former war colleague. The mysteries also grow more complex, with Huber introducing new characters, unexpected twists, and dark secrets from the past that continually challenge Verity’s ability to uncover the truth.

For the best reading experience, it’s recommended to start with the first book, This Side of Murder, to understand Verity’s backstory and the key players in her world. Subsequent books continue to develop her story arc, and reading them in order allows you to appreciate the growth of both Verity as a person and the relationships she has with those around her.

What I Like About The Series?

There are several aspects of the Verity Kent series that make it so compelling. First and foremost is the protagonist herself-Verity Kent. She is an intelligent, strong, and independent woman who doesn’t conform to the expectations of her time. Her background as a spy gives her an edge in solving mysteries, but it also leaves her with emotional scars that make her a complex and relatable character. Verity is constantly evolving, dealing with the traumas of her past while forging a new life in a world that is still in transition.

The historical context is another reason I love this series. Anna Lee Huber does a remarkable job of bringing post-World War I England to life, from the remnants of the war’s devastation to the social changes that were occurring, especially regarding women’s rights. The tensions between the old world and the new provide a rich backdrop to Verity’s adventures, and the author’s meticulous attention to historical detail only enhances the immersive experience. It’s clear that Huber has done her research, and the period details are seamlessly integrated into the narrative.

The mysteries themselves are intriguing and well-crafted. Each book presents a new puzzle that challenges Verity’s intellect and intuition. While the mysteries are often centered around murder, they delve into more than just the mechanics of crime-they explore the motives, secrets, and lies that people keep hidden, often with devastating consequences. The psychological depth of the plots keeps readers engaged, and the twists and turns are unexpected, making for an exciting reading experience.

Finally, the series is a wonderful exploration of relationships. Verity’s marriage to Sidney is far from perfect, and watching the complexities of their relationship unfold adds depth to the books. Their dynamic is tested by their pasts and their differing approaches to life post-war, but there’s a tenderness that grows between them as the series progresses. This emotional journey adds a layer of richness to the mysteries, making them more than just a puzzle to solve but also a reflection of personal growth and reconciliation.

Should You Read Verity Kent Books In Order?

While each Verity Kent book can be read as a standalone mystery, reading the series in order significantly enhances the experience. As mentioned earlier, the personal growth of Verity, the evolution of her relationships, and the unfolding of long-term plotlines are key elements of the series. By starting with This Side of Murder, you’re introduced to Verity’s world, her backstory, and her emotional journey, all of which will deepen the impact of the later books.

Furthermore, the progression of mysteries builds upon each other in a way that makes later books more rewarding. For example, the more you understand about Verity’s past and her connections to other characters, the more poignant the resolutions of the mysteries become. The continuity of character development is one of the strongest elements of the series, and jumping in at a later book could potentially spoil key developments that take place earlier.

For those who enjoy reading books in a series with a clear narrative arc and character development, reading the Verity Kent books in order is highly recommended. However, if you prefer a more episodic approach to mysteries where each book feels like a contained story, the series still offers that experience as well. Just be aware that you might miss some of the emotional depth and thematic connections that unfold across the books.