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series Reading Order

Crow Investigations Books in Order

8 Books
2018 – 2022 Published
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Reading order

Recommended Reading Order

The best way to read the Crow Investigations series is in publication order. The series follows a continuous character arc for Lydia Crow, so starting at the beginning is crucial to understanding her character development and the ongoing storylines with the four magical families of London.

Crow Investigations Books in Order

  • The Night Raven (2018)
  • The Silver Mark (2019)
  • The Fox's Curse (2019)
  • The Pearl King (2020)
  • The Copper Heart (2020)
  • The Shadow Wing (2021)
  • The Broken Cage (2022)
  • The Magpie Key (2022)
  • The Gilded Nest (2025)
  • The Crow Moon (2026)

Chronological Order vs. Publication Order

Because there are no prequel novellas or short story collections, the chronological order matches the publication order exactly. You do not need to worry about jumping around the timeline; simply follow the list from book one to book ten.

The Connected Universe: Unholy Island

Sarah Painter's series, Unholy Island, is set within the same fictional universe as Crow Investigations. While there are very minor crossovers and easter eggs, it features a different cast of characters and a new setting. You can read it completely independently of Lydia Crow's adventures.

Unholy Island Books in Order

  • The Ward Witch (2023)
  • The Book Keeper (2024)
  • The Island God (2024)

Frequently Asked

QWhat is the recommended starting point for Crow Investigations?

You should start with the first novel, The Night Raven. The series has an ongoing story arc, making it best read in publication order.

QAre there any prequels or novellas in the series?

No, there are currently no prequel novellas or short stories. The story begins directly with the first book.

QHow many books are in the Crow Investigations series?

As of 2026, there are ten books in the main series, with the latest being The Crow Moon.

QDoes Crow Investigations connect to Unholy Island?

Yes, both series are set in the same magical universe, but they feature different characters and settings, with only very minor crossover details.

QWho is the main protagonist of the series?

The main character is Lydia Crow, a private investigator in London who starts out seemingly powerless in a family of powerful magic-users.

QIs Crow Investigations suitable for fans of Rivers of London?

Yes, fans of Ben Aaronovitch's Rivers of London will enjoy the urban fantasy setting, the magical mystery elements, and the gritty London atmosphere.