How to Read the Alexandra Barnaby Series
If you want to experience the complete story of Alexandra Barnaby (often called Barney) and NASCAR driver Sam Hooker, the recommended approach is to read the books in publication order. Since the series is highly chronological, starting from the beginning ensures you follow their evolving relationship and the overarching plotlines accurately.
Alexandra Barnaby Books in Order
The series consists of two prose novels followed by a two-part graphic novel continuation. Here is the exact order to read them:
- Metro Girl (2004) — The first prose novel. Alex heads to Miami to find her missing brother, Wild Bill, and runs into NASCAR driver Sam Hooker.
- Motor Mouth (2006) — The second prose novel. Alex and Sam team up again to solve a high-stakes NASCAR racing scandal and kidnapping case in Florida.
- Troublemaker (2010) — The first part of the graphic novel sequel. Co-written with Alex Evanovich and illustrated by Joëlle Jones, it plunges the duo into a voodoo-fueled kidnapping mystery in Miami.
- Troublemaker 2 (2010) — The final graphic novel installment, completing the voodoo case and wrapping up the Barnaby and Hooker storyline.
Understanding the Format Shift
The series is unique because it shifts medium halfway through. While the first two installments, Metro Girl and Motor Mouth, are traditional prose novels, the story concludes with the two-part graphic novel series Troublemaker and Troublemaker 2. Janet Evanovich co-wrote these graphic novels with her daughter, Alex Evanovich, and collaborator Joëlle Jones provided the artwork. The graphic novels are direct sequels to the novels and are essential to getting the full story.
Does Alexandra Barnaby Cross Over with Stephanie Plum?
No. Although Janet Evanovich writes both series and they share a similar blend of humor, romance, and mystery, the Alexandra Barnaby series is set in a completely separate universe from Stephanie Plum. Stephanie resides in Trenton, New Jersey, while Alex's adventures take place in Miami, Florida. There are no cameos or crossovers between the characters.