Books On Board
series Reading Order

Cape Light Books in Order

21 Books
2002 – 2019 Published
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Reading order

How to Read the Cape Light Series

The Cape Light series, co-created by inspirational painter Thomas Kinkade and author Katherine Spencer (the pseudonym of Anne Canadeo), is best read in publication order. Because the residents of this fictional Massachusetts coastal town grow, marry, have children, and face life's transitions in real time, reading the books chronologically by release date ensures you won't spoil major character developments or relationship milestones.

The Recommended Starting Point

You should absolutely start with the very first book, Cape Light (2002). This novel introduces the central characters who anchor the entire series, including Jessica Warwick, her sister Emily (the town's mayor), the handyman Sam Moore, and the wise Reverend Ben. Beginning here sets the foundation for the town's close-knit dynamics and recurring subplots.

Cape Light Complete Publication Order

The main Cape Light series spans 21 novels published between 2002 and 2020. While the early books take place across different seasons, many of the later novels double as Christmas specials, focusing on holiday warmth and reconciliation.

ol
  • Cape Light (2002)
  • Home Song (2002)
  • The Gathering Place (2003)
  • A New Leaf (2004)
  • A Christmas Promise (2004)
  • The Christmas Angel (2005)
  • A Christmas to Remember (2006)
  • A Christmas Visitor (2007)
  • A Christmas Star (2008)
  • A Wish for Christmas (2009)
  • On Christmas Eve (2010)
  • Christmas Treasures (2011)
  • A Season of Angels (2012)
  • Songs of Christmas (2013)
  • All is Bright (2014)
  • Together for Christmas (2015)
  • Because It's Christmas (2016)
  • Christmas Blessings (2017)
  • A Christmas Secret (2018)
  • When Christmas Comes (2019)
  • One Bright Christmas (2020)

    • The Angel Island Spin-Off

    Set on a nearby island just off the coast of Cape Light, the Angel Island spin-off series focuses heavily on the romantic and community lives of characters staying at the local inn. Written by Katherine Spencer under the same collaboration, these five books were published alongside the main series between 2010 and 2014.

    • The Inn at Angel Island (2010)
    • The Wedding Promise (2011)
    • A Wandering Heart (2012)
    • The Way Home (2013)
    • Harbor of the Heart (2014)

    How to Integrate Angel Island

    Because the publication dates of the Angel Island books run parallel to Cape Light books 11 through 15, you can alternate between them. For the most immersive experience, read On Christmas Eve (Cape Light Book 11), followed by The Inn at Angel Island, and continue pairing them year-by-year.

    Frequently Asked

    QCan you read the Cape Light books out of order?

    While each book features self-contained romances and life resolutions, it is highly recommended to read them in order. The overarching storylines, character relationships, and town developments progress chronologically throughout the series.

    QWho is the real author behind the Katherine Spencer pen name?

    Katherine Spencer is the pseudonym of Anne Canadeo, an accomplished author who is also well-known for writing the Black Sheep Knitting Mysteries cozy mystery series.

    QIs Cape Light a real town in Massachusetts?

    No, Cape Light is a fictional coastal town. However, its scenic beaches, cozy inns, and close-knit community are heavily inspired by classic New England seaside villages and the artwork of Thomas Kinkade.

    QHow does the Angel Island series connect to Cape Light?

    Angel Island is a spin-off series set on a nearby island. It shares the same cozy, faith-friendly tone, features guest appearances from Cape Light residents, and was published concurrently with the main series between 2010 and 2014.

    QDid the Cape Light series end in 2020?

    Yes, the series concluded with the publication of the 21st novel, One Bright Christmas, in November 2020. No further books have been published in the series since.

    QWhat role did Thomas Kinkade play in the books?

    Thomas Kinkade, the famous "Painter of Light," co-created the concepts, themes, and setting of the series based on his signature cozy, glowing artwork. Following his passing in 2012, Katherine Spencer continued writing the series solo.