The Recommended Reading Order for Alyssa Maxwell
Alyssa Maxwell is a master of cozy historical mysteries, best known for two primary series that transport readers to distinct, richly detailed eras. Because her characters grow, marry, and evolve over the course of each series, the recommended reading path is to follow the publication order, which aligns perfectly with the in-universe chronology. Below is the complete listing for both of her major mystery series.
Gilded Newport Mysteries Reading Order
This series follows Emmaline Cross, a headstrong lady journalist who also happens to be a distant cousin to the prominent Vanderbilt family. Set against the lavish backdrops of Newport, Rhode Island, during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, each book focuses on a different historic mansion. Readers should follow this order to witness Emma's career and personal relationships develop naturally:
- Murder at the Breakers (2014)
- Murder at Marble House (2014)
- Murder at Beechwood (2015)
- Murder at Rough Point (2016)
- Murder at Chateau sur Mer (2017)
- Murder at Ochre Court (2018)
- Murder at Crossways (2019)
- Murder at Kingscote (2020)
- Murder at Wakehurst (2021)
- Murder at Beacon Rock (2022)
- Murder at the Elms (2023)
- Murder at Vinland (2024)
- Murder at Arleigh (2025)
- Murder at Rosecliff (Scheduled for release in August 2026)
A Lady & Lady's Maid Mysteries Reading Order
Set in post-World War I England, this series explores the complex social structures of the era through an unlikely sleuthing duo: Lady Phoebe Renshaw and her clever lady's maid, Eva Huntford. Together, they navigate the shifting class dynamics of the early 20th century while solving crimes in grand country houses and fashionable London districts:
- Murder Most Malicious (2015)
- A Pinch of Poison (2016)
- A Devious Death (2017)
- A Murderous Marriage (2019)
- A Silent Stabbing (2020)
- A Sinister Service (2021)
- A Deadly Endowment (2021)
- A Fashionable Fatality (2023)
- Two Weddings and a Murder (2025)
What to Know Before You Start
Alyssa Maxwell’s work is highly regarded for its meticulous historical accuracy and atmospheric writing. She writes under the pen name Alyssa Maxwell (her real name is Lisa Manuel), a name she selected specifically for her mystery novels to separate them from her earlier romance writing. Before diving in, here are key elements that define her storytelling style and setting structures:
- The Vanderbilt Connection: In the Gilded Newport Mysteries, Emma Cross’s connection to the Vanderbilts grants her access to the highest tiers of Gilded Age society. This setup allows Maxwell to include real-life historical figures—such as members of the Vanderbilt family, the Astors, and even historical figures like Edith Roosevelt—adding layer of realism to the fictional mysteries.
- Hallmark Mystery Adaptation: In 2024, the Hallmark Mystery channel adapted the series debut, Murder at the Breakers, into a television movie. The film brought Emma Cross and her Gilded Age investigations to a broader screen audience, sparking renewed interest in the books.
- Class Dynamics: While the Newport series views society through a high-class lens with a working-class protagonist, the Lady & Lady's Maid series explicitly highlights the dual perspectives of the aristocracy and the domestic staff, offering a nuanced look at England's post-Edwardian transition.
Practical Reader Advice
For readers deciding how to approach Alyssa Maxwell's library, here is practical advice to ensure the best reading experience:
Where to Start
If you prefer American historical settings, lavish architecture, and the drama of high society, start with Murder at the Breakers. If you are a fan of British period dramas like Downton Abbey and enjoy exploring class hierarchies and upstairs-downstairs dynamics, start with Murder Most Malicious. Both serve as excellent starting points for their respective series.
Can These Books Be Read as Standalones?
While the mystery in each individual novel is fully resolved by the final page, reading the books out of order is not recommended. The overarching narrative features significant, permanent developments in the characters' personal and professional lives. Emma Cross’s relationship milestones, career shifts, and family status evolve book by book, and jumping ahead will spoil key plot points from earlier installments.
Spin-offs, Co-authored Works, and Pseudonyms
Alyssa Maxwell writes these series independently, with no co-authors or spin-off series. She does, however, have a background in historical romance. Under her real name, Lisa Manuel, and another pseudonym, Allison Chase, she has published several romance novels. However, her cozy mystery series remain entirely separate and do not cross over with her romance catalog.