San Juan Islands Mystery Books in Order

The Recommended Reading Order for San Juan Islands Mystery

If you love atmospheric suspense, foggy shorelines, and small-town secrets, D.W. Ulsterman's San Juan Islands Mystery series is a must-read. The books follow Adele Plank, a tenacious young college journalist who grows into a seasoned professional reporter and amateur detective. Because the series relies heavily on character development, romantic relationships, and recurring town lore, it is highly recommended to read the books in publication order. Fortunately, the publication order matches the chronological timeline of Adele's adventures, making your reading path straightforward.

San Juan Islands Mystery Books in Order

Here is the complete list of books in the San Juan Islands Mystery series by D.W. Ulsterman, including their original release years and where they fit in the timeline:

1. The Writer (2016) - The book that started it all. Adele Plank visits a private island to interview a reclusive, once-bestselling author, only to stumble into a dark web of tragedy and danger.
2. Dark Waters (2016) - Adele returns to the San Juan Islands as a full-time reporter, investigating a young woman's murder while dealing with personal and romantic developments.
3. Murder on Matia (2017) - Set during a harsh island winter, Adele must piece together a cold-blooded crime on the isolated Matia Island.
4. Rosario's Revenge (2017) - Adele finds herself targeted by vengeful forces in a high-stakes investigation that threatens her career and life.
5. Roche Harbor Rogue (2019) - A mysterious figure arrives in Roche Harbor, bringing old secrets and new dangers for Adele to unravel.
6. Turn Point Massacre (2020) - Adele investigates a historical tragedy and its modern-day fallout near the Turn Point Lighthouse.
7. Deadman Island (2021) - A sinister conspiracy unfolds on the shores of Deadman Island, testing Adele's investigative resolve.
8. The Truthing Tree (2022) - Lore and mystery collide as Adele uncovers long-buried secrets tied to a legendary island landmark.
9. The Book of Bloodbone (2023) - Adele is drawn into a dark, gothic-tinged mystery involving an old journal and historical crimes.
10. The Walking Ones (2024) - A suspenseful chase across the islands as Adele tracks a group of elusive and dangerous figures.
11. Anacortes Haunting (2024) - Stepping slightly off the main islands to the gateway city of Anacortes, Adele investigates a series of seemingly supernatural events that mask a very real threat.
12. Roland's Lament (2025) - This installment shifts focus toward Roland, one of the series' beloved recurring characters, as his past catches up with him.
13. Fear in Fairhaven (2025) - Adele travels to the historic Fairhaven district to solve a mystery involving an old friend.
14. Tilda (2026) - Another character-focused mystery centering on Tilda, the quirky and beloved islander who has aided Adele in past investigations.
15. Lucas (2026) - Sheriff Lucas takes center stage in this high-stakes police procedural and thriller crossover.
16. Kill List (Upcoming 2027) - The highly anticipated sixteenth installment in Adele Plank's ongoing investigative saga.

The Reader Companion

• San Juan Islands Mystery Series Reader Companion (2021) - An optional companion book containing character bios, island lore, and behind-the-scenes insights from author D.W. Ulsterman. It is best read after finishing Deadman Island to avoid minor spoilers.

Where Should You Start?

You should absolutely start your journey with The Writer. Unlike traditional cozy mystery series where each book functions as a completely standalone puzzle, the San Juan Islands Mystery series is a serialized narrative. Starting with the first book ensures you understand Adele Plank's origins, her evolving relationship with the island community, and the background of recurring characters like Roland, Tilda, and Sheriff Lucas. Skip-reading or starting mid-series will leave you confused about the personal growth and complex relationships that define the series' charm.

What to Know Before You Start: Cozy vs. Gritty

While the Pacific Northwest setting, small-town community, and amateur sleuth lead might suggest a traditional 'cozy' mystery, readers should note that D.W. Ulsterman's series leans significantly darker. The books blend the scenic charm of Washington's waterways with gritty thriller elements, psychological suspense, and genuine physical danger. Ulsterman, a Pacific Northwest native, spends summers navigating these exact waters on his boat, 'Mad Hatter.' His real-life maritime experiences infuse the books with a vivid, realistic, and sometimes ominous atmosphere that elevates the suspense.

Crucial Caveat: San Juan Islands vs. San Juan Island

When searching for these books online, be careful not to confuse D.W. Ulsterman's San Juan Islands Mystery series with the similarly named San Juan Island Murder Mysteries by Bethany Maines. While both are set in the scenic Washington islands, Bethany Maines' series stars different protagonists (Tish and Tobias Yearly) and has a distinct, more comedic tone. If you are looking for Adele Plank, ensure you are buying the books authored by D.W. Ulsterman.