Alpha & Omega Books in Order

Where to Start Reading

For the best experience, do not start with the first novel, Cry Wolf. You should begin with the Alpha & Omega prequel novella, which was originally published in the 2007 anthology On the Prowl and later reprinted in the short story collection Shifting Shadows. This novella tells the crucial origin story of how Anna Latham and Charles Cornick meet. Starting with Cry Wolf without reading the novella makes the beginning of the series feel abrupt and confusing.

The Core Reading Order

Since the publication order matches the chronological order of Charles and Anna's journey, you can follow this sequence once you have read the prequel novella:

• 0.5. "Alpha & Omega" (Novella, 2007) – Found in the anthologies On the Prowl or Shifting Shadows.
• 1. Cry Wolf (2008)
• 2. Hunting Ground (2009)
• 3. Fair Game (2012)
• 4. Dead Heat (2015)
• 5. Burn Bright (2018)
• 6. Wild Sign (2021)

As of 2026, a seventh novel has been completed in manuscript form by Patricia Briggs and is undergoing the editing process, though a title and official release date have not yet been announced.

The Mercy Thompson Universe Overlap

The Alpha & Omega series is a direct spin-off of Patricia Briggs' primary Mercy Thompson series and takes place in the same world. Events and characters frequently overlap, and major changes in the werewolf political landscape affect both series. If you want to read both series in chronological order, follow this integrated start:

1. Moon Called (Mercy Thompson Book 1)
2. "Alpha & Omega" (Prequel Novella)
3. Cry Wolf (Alpha & Omega Book 1)
4. Blood Bound (Mercy Thompson Book 2)
5. Iron Kissed (Mercy Thompson Book 3)
6. Hunting Ground (Alpha & Omega Book 2)

While it is possible to read Alpha & Omega independently, reading the first few Mercy Thompson books provides valuable context on the Marrok (the leader of the North American werewolves) and how the pack dynamics work.