How to Read the Florida Keys Adventure Books in Order
Matthew Rief’s fast-paced Florida Keys Adventure series is best experienced in the order of publication. While each novel features a self-contained mystery or action-packed mission that can technically be enjoyed on its own, reading them sequentially allows you to follow Logan Dodge’s personal growth, his evolving relationships, and the shifting dynamics of his crew.
Because the chronological timeline aligns perfectly with the publication dates, tracking the series is straightforward. Below is the complete publication and chronological list of the Florida Keys Adventure books:
- Gold in the Keys (2017)
- Hunted in the Keys (2018)
- Revenge in the Keys (2018)
- Betrayed in the Keys (2018)
- Redemption in the Keys (2019)
- Corruption in the Keys (2019)
- Predator in the Keys (2019)
- Legend in the Keys (2019)
- Abducted in the Keys (2019)
- Showdown in the Keys (2020)
- Avenged in the Keys (2020)
- Broken in the Keys (2020)
- Payback in the Keys (2021)
- Condemned in the Keys (2021)
- Voyage in the Keys (2022)
- Guardian in the Keys (2022)
- Menace in the Keys (2023)
- Pursuit in the Keys (2023)
- Defiance in the Keys (2023)
- Treasure in the Keys (2024)
- Killer in the Keys (2024)
- Hostage in the Keys (2024)
- Justice in the Keys (2025)
- Havoc in the Keys (2025)
- Fugitive in the Keys (2025)
- Stranded in the Keys (2026)
- Reckoning in the Keys (Expected late 2026)
Why the Publication Order Matters
Although Matthew Rief has stated that the books are structured to stand alone, starting from the beginning with Gold in the Keys provides critical context. When readers first meet Logan Dodge, he is a rugged ex-Navy SEAL trying to adjust to civilian life in Key West, living a beach-bum lifestyle that is constantly interrupted by danger. Over the course of the series, Logan’s personal life undergoes major developments—including his marriage to Angelina, a skilled former mercenary who frequently fights alongside him.
Additionally, Logan’s resources and equipment change. Fans of nautical thrillers will appreciate watching him upgrade his gear, notably when he acquires and operates the Dodging Bullets II, a high-performance forty-eight-foot Baia Flash powerboat that features prominently in his high-speed pursuits.
The Core Cast and Setting
The series is highly praised for its immersive depiction of the Florida Keys. The tropical setting functions as a character in its own right, transitioning from beautiful coral reefs and pristine beaches to treacherous swamps and storm-lashed seas. Logan Dodge is supported by a recurring cast of allies who help him navigate these environments:
- Angelina: Logan’s wife and partner-in-combat, whose tactical background as a mercenary matches Logan’s own SEAL training.
- Navy buddies & mercenary contacts: Old friends from Logan's military past who drop in when a mission requires extra firepower or specialized tech.
- Local experts: Charter captains, marine geologists, and local investigators based in Key West who assist with historical lore and local navigation.
What to Know Before You Start
If you are a fan of Clive Cussler’s Dirk Pitt adventures, Travis McGee's beachside cases, or high-octane tactical thrillers, Matthew Rief’s writing style will feel right at home. The series blends historical mysteries—such as lost Spanish galleons and ancient Aztec gold—with contemporary threats like drug cartels, corrupt politicians, and modern-day pirates.
Rief writes with a relentless pace, often publishing multiple books in a single year. The chapters are short, action-focused, and filled with tactical detail. The violence is cinematic, and the tropical atmosphere is thick with salty air, key lime pie, and gunsmoke.
Are There Spin-Offs or Crossovers?
Matthew Rief is also the author of the Jason Wake thriller series, which includes titles such as Caribbean Wake, Surging Wake, and Relentless Wake. While the Jason Wake novels share a similar high-stakes adventure tone and tropical locations, there are no crossovers or direct links between Logan Dodge and Jason Wake. The two series exist in separate universes, allowing you to read them entirely independently.