Character Reading Order

Ana Grey Books in Order

4Books
1994 – 2011Published
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The Recommended Reading Order

To fully appreciate the emotional depth and character growth of Special Agent Ana Grey, it is highly recommended to read the series in its publication order. The chronological events of Ana's life match the publication order exactly, tracking her personal struggles, evolving relationships, and professional challenges over time.

  • North of Montana (1994) - The debut novel introduces Ana Grey in the Los Angeles FBI field office as she tackles a high-profile drug case involving a Hollywood star, forcing her to confront her own traumatic family history.
  • Good Morning, Killer (2003) - Working in Santa Monica, Ana tracks a serial kidnapper targeting teenage girls while managing a turbulent relationship with detective Andrew Berringer.
  • Judas Horse (2008) - Ana goes deep undercover to infiltrate a cell of radical eco-terrorists, which leads to a dangerous blurring of the lines between her real identity and her cover.
  • White Shotgun (2011) - Following a mass shooting in London, Ana travels to Siena, Italy, to protect a newly discovered half-sister from a dangerous crime family against the backdrop of the Palio horse race.

Publication Order vs. Chronological Order

There is no difference between the chronological timeline of the series and its publication order. Each novel builds directly on the events of the previous book, particularly concerning Ana's family background, her relationships, and her emotional stability. Reading them out of order may spoil key character developments and long-term subplots.

The TV Adaptation

In 2011, TNT adapted the second novel, Good Morning, Killer, as part of their Mystery Movie Night initiative. April Smith adapted the screenplay and executive produced the television film herself, which starred Catherine Bell as Special Agent Ana Grey.

Co-Authored Works and Spin-Offs

April Smith is the sole author of the Ana Grey series. There are no co-authored books, spin-off series, or short stories featuring the character. Smith has also written standalone novels, such as Be the One (2011), A Star for Mrs. Blake (2014), and Home Sweet Home (2016), which are unrelated to the Ana Grey universe.

Frequently Asked

Where should I start reading the Ana Grey series?

You should start with the first book, North of Montana (1994). This novel establishes Ana's complex family history and career foundations, which are crucial for understanding her choices in later books.

Are there any spin-offs or co-authored books in the series?

No. April Smith is the sole author of the series, and there are no spin-off novels or collaborative projects featuring Ana Grey.

Is the television film Good Morning, Killer faithful to the book?

Yes, the 2011 TNT movie adaptation is quite faithful. The screenplay was written by April Smith herself, who also served as an executive producer.

Why is there a long gap between the first and second books?

April Smith has a busy career as a television writer and producer, having written for major shows like Cagney & Lacey, Lou Grant, and Chicago Hope, which contributed to the nine-year gap between the first two novels.

Can I read the Ana Grey books as standalones?

Yes, each book features a self-contained FBI investigation that is resolved by the end. However, the overarching story of Ana's personal life and family secrets develops continuously, so reading them in order is recommended.

Is the series ongoing?

As of now, the series is considered complete with the publication of the fourth book, White Shotgun, in 2011. April Smith has since focused on standalone historical and mystery novels.