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A Riveting Kidnapping Mystery Books in Order

67 Books
2019 – 2020 Published
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Where to Start A Riveting Kidnapping Mystery

Unlike traditional thriller series that follow a single protagonist, A Riveting Kidnapping Mystery is a collaborative project written by several popular mystery authors. Because each novel functions as a standalone investigation with a unique cast of characters and setting, there is no single chronological storyline to follow. You can jump in anywhere without getting lost.

For the best experience, we recommend starting with the book that launched the series: The Abducted (2019) by Roger Hayden. This novel introduces a former police officer investigating a child's disappearance in South Florida, perfectly setting the gritty, suspenseful tone for the rest of the collection.

A Riveting Kidnapping Mystery Publication Order

If you prefer to watch the series evolve as it was released, reading in publication order is a great path. The collection grew rapidly after its debut in 2019. Here is a look at the earliest titles that established the series:

  • The Abducted (2019) by Roger Hayden
  • The Abducted: Odessa (2019) by Roger Hayden
  • Deadly Webs (2019) by James Hunt
  • Missing Person (2019) by James Hunt
  • The Silent Ones (2019) by James Hunt
  • Stolen (2019) by James Hunt
  • Little Girl Lost (2019) by Alexandria Clarke
  • The Sleeping Girls (2019) by James Hunt
  • Don't Tell (2019) by James Hunt
  • The Buried Truth (2019) by James Hunt

Reading by Author and Setting

Another excellent way to read the series is to follow your favorite authors or settings. Each author brings their own style, pacing, and recurring themes to their contributions:

  • Roger Hayden: Focuses on gritty, character-driven mysteries, often setting his stories in coastal Florida and Texas.
  • James Hunt: Known for fast-paced investigations featuring complex detectives, with settings ranging from the rainy streets of Seattle to the plains of Kansas.
  • Alexandria Clarke: Weaves atmospheric suspense stories that delve deep into emotional trauma and family secrets.
  • Robert J. Walker & Marie Wilkens: Prolific contributors who have expanded the series into smaller towns, delivering chilling abductions like The Frozen Child and The Colwood Kidnappings.

Frequently Asked

QDo I need to read the A Riveting Kidnapping Mystery books in order?

No. Each book in the series is a standalone story with different characters and settings, meaning you can read them in any order you choose.

QWhat is the first book in the series?

The first book published in the series is The Abducted by Roger Hayden, which was released in 2019.

QWho writes A Riveting Kidnapping Mystery?

The series is a collaborative effort by multiple authors, including Roger Hayden, James Hunt, Alexandria Clarke, Robert J. Walker, and Marie Wilkens.

QHow many books are in the series?

As of 2025, the series has grown to include 79 books, reflecting its immense popularity among mystery fans.

QAre there recurring characters in the series?

Generally, no. Most books feature brand-new detectives and victims, though individual authors occasionally bring back their own investigators for multi-part cases within the shared universe.

QWhere are these books set?

The series takes readers all over the United States, featuring settings like South Florida, Seattle, Texas, Kansas, and various small towns.