Books On Board
series Reading Order

Bannerman Books in Order

5 Books
1989 – 2003 Published
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Reading order

The Recommended Reading Order

If you want to dive into the deadly but surprisingly cozy world of retired government operatives, the path is simple: follow the publication order. Because the character development, romantic subplots, and global conspiracies build on one another, reading them out of order will spoil key twists.

Bannerman Books in Publication and Chronological Order

  • The Bannerman Solution (1989)
  • The Bannerman Effect (1990)
  • Bannerman's Law (1991)
  • Bannerman's Promise (1993) – Also published under the title "A Matter of Honor"
  • Bannerman's Ghosts (2003)

Chronological Order and Alternate Titles

Unlike some thriller series that bounce back and forth in time with prequels or flashback novels, the Bannerman books move strictly forward. Chronological order matches publication order perfectly, meaning you don't need to overthink your reading path.

The only minor point of confusion is the fourth book, which was published as Bannerman's Promise in the United States but released as A Matter of Honor in some international editions. Keep this in mind when hunting down paperback copies so you don't accidentally buy the same story twice!

Upcoming TV Adaptation

For readers who love seeing their favorite characters on screen, the Bannerman universe is expanding. AMC is actively developing a television adaptation. The project features filmmaker Shane Black as director and executive producer, Greg Nicotero as executive producer, and Craig Silverstein as creator and showrunner. The series will follow Paul Bannerman's struggle to protect his team of retired ex-assassins from the government that wants them erased.

Frequently Asked

QWhere should I start reading the Bannerman series?

You should start with the first novel, The Bannerman Solution, which introduces Paul Bannerman, the town of Westport, and the core cast of ex-spies.

QAre there any timeline jumps in the Bannerman series?

No. The narrative moves forward chronologically, meaning the publication order is the perfect path for readers.

QWhy was the fourth book published under different titles?

The fourth book was released as Bannerman's Promise in some markets and as A Matter of Honor in others, but they are the exact same novel.

QIs there a television show based on the Bannerman books?

Yes. AMC is developing a TV adaptation with director Shane Black, executive producer Greg Nicotero, and showrunner Craig Silverstein.

QDo I need to read the books in order?

Yes, reading the books in order is highly recommended as the character relationships, overarching government conspiracies, and personal stakes evolve continuously from book to book.

QHow many books are in the Bannerman series?

There are five core novels in the series, starting in 1989 and ending with the final installment in 2003.