James Patterson’s Women’s Murder Club series is a collection of crime novels set primarily in San Francisco. The series features a group of women, each a specialist in her field, who come together to solve some of the city’s most challenging cases.
The series begins with “1st to Die,” introducing us to Lindsay Boxer, San Francisco’s only female homicide inspector. Alongside her, the club includes a medical examiner, a journalist, and an assistant district attorney. These women combine their professional skills and personal insights to delve into complex cases, often finding themselves in dangerous situations.
As the series progresses, each book presents new and gripping challenges for the Women’s Murder Club. From investigating brutal murders and uncovering hidden secrets to confronting personal tragedies and ethical dilemmas, these stories showcase the strength and resilience of the women involved. The series blends elements of mystery, drama, and thriller, offering readers a rollercoaster of emotions and suspense.
See also: James Patterson’s Alex Cross Series in Order.
Women’s Murder Club Series in Order
- 1st to Die (2001)
- 2nd Chance (2002)
- 3rd Degree (2004)
- 4th of July (2005)
- The 5th Horseman (2006)
- The 6th Target (2007)
- 7th Heaven (2008)
- The 8th Confession (2009)
- The 9th Judgment (2010)
- 10th Anniversary (2011)
- 11th Hour (2012)
- 12th of Never (2013)
- Unlucky 13 (2014)
- 14th Deadly Sin (2015)
- 15th Affair (2016)
- The Trial (2016)
- 16th Seduction (2017)
- The Medical Examiner (2017)
- The 17th Suspect (2018)
- The 18th Abduction (2019)
- The 19th Christmas (2019)
- The 20th Victim (2020)
- 21st Birthday (2021)
- 22 Seconds (2022)
- The 23rd Midnight (2023)
- 23 1/2 Lies (2023)
- The 24th Hour (2024)
Similar Authors
- “Blindsighted” by Karin Slaughter – The first book in the Grant County series, featuring Sara Linton, a pediatrician and coroner in a small Georgia town. She becomes involved in solving a series of brutal murders, combining mystery with character development.
- “Postmortem” by Patricia Cornwell – This novel introduces Dr. Kay Scarpetta, a medical examiner in Virginia, who solves murders using forensic science. The book blends science and suspense, focusing on a female lead in a challenging role.
- “In the Woods” by Tana French – Part of the Dublin Murder Squad series, it features Detective Cassie Maddox investigating a child’s murder in a small Irish town. The story combines character development with a complex mystery, echoing the style of the Women’s Murder Club series.
See also: D.D. Warren Series in Order.
Best James Patterson Books
- 23rd Midnight (4.40 Goodreads score)
- 21st Birthday (4.18 Goodreads score)
- The 9th Judgment (4.14 Goodreads score)
- 10th Anniversary (4.12 Goodreads score)
- 15th Affair (4.12 Goodreads score)
Awards
James Patterson, a celebrated author, has received numerous accolades, including the Literarian Award from the National Book Foundation in 2015 and 2022, the National Humanities Medal in 2019, and notable honors like the Edgar Award, the BCA Mystery Guild’s Thriller of the Year, the International Thriller of the Year, and the Children’s Choice Book Award for Author of the Year.
Upcoming Releases
James Patterson fans have a series of new releases to anticipate. Starting with “Cross Out” on November 20, 2023, and followed by “What Really Happens in Vegas” on December 4, 2023, the series of releases continues into 2024. The year 2024 starts with two books releasing on January 8: “Holmes, Miss Marple, and Poe Investigations” and “Middle School: Million Dollar Mess.” This lineup of new books concludes with “Tiger, Tiger,” which will be available on February 12, 2024.
Book Summaries
1st to Die
"1st to Die" is a crime novel set in San Francisco. Lindsay Boxer, the city's only female homicide inspector, is faced with a horrifying case of newlywed couples being brutally murdered on their wedding nights. Lindsay is determined to catch the killer, but her personal tragedy puts her resolve to the test. With the support of her friends Claire, a coroner, Cindy, a journalist, and Jill, an attorney, Lindsay forms the Women's Murder Club to solve the case and overcome their own challenges.
2nd Chance
"2nd Chance" follows Detective Lindsay Boxer as she teams up with the Women's Murder Club to solve a shocking case. When a young girl is tragically shot outside a church in San Francisco, Lindsay and her team, including reporter Cindy Thomas, assistant DA Jill Bernhardt, and medical examiner Claire Washburn, work together to catch the elusive killer. As they delve deeper into the investigation, they uncover surprising connections and realize that the killer may be someone they never expected.
3rd Degree
In "3rd Degree" Detective Lindsay Boxer is out for a jog in San Francisco when a devastating explosion rocks the neighborhood. As she investigates, she uncovers a disturbing pattern of violence, with the perpetrator aiming to take a life every three days. Lindsay and her friends from the Women's Murder Club soon realize that one of them has become the killer's target. To make matters worse, they also discover that a member of their group is harboring a dangerous secret that could have devastating consequences for them all.
4th of July
Detective Lindsay Boxer finds herself in a difficult situation when she is forced to defend herself and fires her weapon. This decision leads to a series of events that bring disgrace to the police force, divide the city, and destroy a family. Lindsay's entire life now depends on the decision of twelve jurors. To escape the media frenzy, she seeks refuge in the peaceful town of Half Moon Bay. However, her tranquility is short-lived as a series of brutal murders occur in the community. With no witnesses or clear pattern, Lindsay is reminded of an unsolved murder from her past. As summer progresses, Lindsay and her friends in the Women's Murder Club fight for her life on two fronts: in court and against a merciless killer.
The 5th Horseman
"The 5th Horseman" follows Lieutenant Lindsay Boxer as she investigates a series of suspicious cases at a San Francisco hospital. When a young mother suddenly falls critically ill and other patients experience similar devastating turns, Lindsay teams up with Yuki Castellano to uncover the truth. As the danger escalates and someone close to Lindsay becomes affected, she races against time to expose a killer while battling an administration determined to protect its reputation.
The 6th Target
Lieutenant Lindsay Boxer is called to investigate a shooting spree on a San Francisco ferry. Three people are dead and one is fighting for her life. Lindsay promises to find the culprit, but soon discovers a child abduction case with no ransom demands. As time runs out, Lindsay must solve the puzzle and find the missing children before it's too late.
7th Heaven
San Francisco is plagued by a series of deadly arson attacks targeting wealthy married couples. Detective Lindsay Boxer is determined to solve the case and bring the killers to justice. As she investigates, a new lead emerges in the high-profile disappearance of the governor's son, leading Lindsay to suspect a connection between the two cases. With the Women's Murder Club pushed to their limits, they must race against time to stop the cold-blooded killers before the city is engulfed in flames.
The 8th Confession
Detective Lindsay Boxer is faced with the murders of several wealthy and influential individuals. As the media frenzy surrounds these high-profile killings, the murder of a local hero goes unnoticed. Reporter Cindy Thomas takes it upon herself to investigate this forgotten murder, uncovering a potential dark secret. With the help of tough attorney Yuki and compassionate medical examiner Claire, Lindsay and Cindy must solve these cases before the killer strikes again. However, the pressure and tension threaten to tear apart the Women's Murder Club. Will they be able to solve the mysteries in time?
The 9th Judgment
Detective Lindsay Boxer is faced with a perplexing case when a young mother and her child are brutally killed in a shopping center parking lot. With only a cryptic word written in lipstick as a clue, Lindsay must unravel the mystery. Meanwhile, a famous actor's wife stumbles upon a notorious thief during a jewelry heist, leading to a deadly encounter. As chaos ensues in San Francisco, Lindsay and her Women's Murder Club follow leads, but soon Lindsay's own life is at stake. Will she be able to solve the case before more blood is shed, possibly her own?
10th Anniversary
In "10th Anniversary" Detective Lindsay Boxer's honeymoon is cut short when she is called to investigate a brutal crime. A teenage girl is found severely injured and her baby is missing. Meanwhile, Assistant District Attorney Yuki Castellano is prosecuting a high-profile case involving a heart surgeon accused of killing her husband. Lindsay discovers evidence that could jeopardize Yuki's case, forcing her to make a difficult decision.
11th Hour
Lindsay Boxer is faced with a difficult situation. A stolen weapon from the police is being used in a series of murders, and Lindsay must question her closest colleagues to determine if they could be responsible. As she investigates a gruesome crime scene involving severed heads, Lindsay also deals with the challenges of her pregnancy and a nosy reporter invading her personal life. With danger looming, Lindsay and her unborn baby are in a precarious position.
12th of Never
"12th of Never" follows Detective Lindsay Boxer as she faces the challenges of impending motherhood and a dangerous case. When an unusual professor predicts a murder that hasn't happened yet, Lindsay must investigate. Meanwhile, a convicted serial killer awakens from a coma and claims to know the location of hidden bodies. As Lindsay races against time to prevent a horrifying future, she is also confronted with the potential loss of her own life.
Unlucky 13
"Unlucky 13" follows Detective Lindsay Boxer as she investigates a suspicious car accident on the Golden Gate Bridge. As she delves deeper into the case, she discovers that a dangerous murderer, who was once a police colleague, has returned to San Francisco and is seeking revenge on old acquaintances. Will Lindsay be able to stop this ruthless killer before it's too late?
14th Deadly Sin
Detective Lindsay Boxer is faced with a new wave of terror in San Francisco. The culprits, who resemble police officers, leave Lindsay questioning if they are clever impostors or corrupt cops. As she delves deeper into the investigation, Lindsay receives a chilling warning to stop her pursuit. Meanwhile, a woman is brutally murdered in broad daylight with no apparent motive or leads. With disguised killers, a dangerous murderer on the loose, and Lindsay's safety at risk, this case may prove to be overwhelming for the Women's Murder Club.
15th Affair
In "15th Affair" a shocking discovery is made at a fancy hotel when four bodies are found. Detective Lindsay Boxer is assigned to the case and must track down a dangerous suspect. However, things take a personal turn when her husband goes missing, leading her to suspect he may be involved. As the investigation becomes more complex, San Francisco is confronted with a horrifying event that will leave a lasting impact.
The Trial
"The Trial" follows Lindsay Boxer and the Women's Murder Club as they face a wave of violence caused by an accused murderer in San Francisco. As Kingfisher, the murderer, unleashes unexpected violence on those involved in the case, the city is left paralyzed. Lindsay and her team find themselves in the midst of the chaos. Just when they think they have everything under control, a shocking twist in the courtroom takes them by surprise.
16th Seduction
"16th Seduction" follows Detective Lindsay Boxer as her seemingly perfect life is shattered when she discovers her husband's betrayal. As she grapples with this shocking revelation, a series of mysterious heart attacks plague San Francisco. To make matters worse, Lindsay and Joe's previous investigation is called into question during a trial. Lindsay finds herself caught in a dangerous conspiracy that could put her on trial and threaten her life.
The Medical Examiner
The Women's Murder Club investigates a shocking crime. When two bodies are discovered at the morgue, the team realizes that one of them is still alive. The story follows their pursuit of justice as they unravel a complex and twisted case involving infidelity, murder, and a wealthy heiress fighting for her life.
The 17th Suspect
Detective Lindsay Boxer is investigating a series of shootings targeting the homeless in San Francisco. As she digs deeper, she discovers troubling evidence that suggests corruption within the police department. Lindsay's friends in the Women's Murder Club worry that she is becoming too emotionally involved in the case, especially when it leads her outside her jurisdiction and into harm's way.
The 18th Abduction
"The 18th Abduction" follows Sergeant Lindsay Boxer as she leads the investigation into the mysterious disappearance of three teachers. With no leads or suspects, the chances of finding the missing women alive are rapidly diminishing. Meanwhile, Lindsay's husband Joe becomes entangled in a shocking encounter with a woman who claims to have seen a notorious war criminal in San Francisco. As Joe's informant goes missing, the two investigations intertwine, forcing Lindsay, Joe, and the Women's Murder Club to work together to protect their city and themselves from a dangerous predator.
The 19th Christmas
Sergeant Lindsay Boxer is excited to spend time with her family during Christmas, but her plans are disrupted when she receives a tip-off about a major heist planned for Christmas Day in San Francisco. The mastermind behind the attack creates chaos in the city, using distractions to divert Lindsay and the police from his true intentions. With time ticking away, Lindsay must race against the clock to save the people of San Francisco from a Christmas they will never forget.
The 20th Victim
Sergeant Lindsay Boxer investigates a series of simultaneous murders in Los Angeles, Chicago, and San Francisco. Lindsay must uncover the connection between these calculated killings, all of which target individuals involved in criminal activities. As the body count rises, the nation becomes captivated by the shocking spree, sparking a debate about whether the killers are villains or heroes. With the fear of who will be the next victim, Lindsay races against time to solve the case.
21st Birthday
In "21st Birthday" a worried mother asks reporter Cindy Thomas to help find her missing daughter and granddaughter. Cindy turns to SFPD Sergeant Lindsay Boxer for assistance. The main suspect is Tara's husband, but he presents a different version of events, suggesting that Tara may have been unfaithful rather than missing. Is this a case of domestic violence or is there a more complicated series of murders involved? As the investigation unfolds, the Women's Murder Club must collaborate to uncover the truth hidden within a web of deceit.
22 Seconds
"22 Seconds" is a story about SFPD Sergeant Lindsay Boxer who is faced with a dangerous situation. With only 22 seconds left, Lindsay must make a decision that could cost her badge or even her life. As she investigates a case involving drugs and weapons, she discovers a disturbing connection to her own past. With former cops being targeted and a chilling warning written on their bodies, Lindsay must decide what to do next.
The 23rd Midnight
Detective Lindsay Boxer successfully captured serial killer Evan Burke and he is now in prison. However, a new killer has emerged, copying Burke's notorious crimes and then vanishing without a trace. Reporter Cindy Thomas wrote a book about the case, which made Burke famous. Now, a disturbed fan is imitating Burke's crimes and targeting Cindy. Lindsay is determined to catch this elusive suspect, who is leaving behind a chilling playbook with Cindy's name written in blood-red ink.
23 1/2 Lies
"23 1/2 Lies" is a collection of three stories. The first story "23 1/2 Lies" is about Lindsay Boxer investigating her father’s murder and discovering surprising truths. "Fallen Ranger" involves Rory Yates investigating an armored car robbery, questioning the loyalty of a former Texas Ranger. "Watch Your Back" follows an artist tasked with revealing a case of infidelity, facing various challenges along the way.
The 24th Hour
"The 24th Hour" follows the Women's Murder Club as they face a series of murders in San Francisco. The club, consisting of Sergeant Lindsay Boxer, Medical Examiner Claire Washburn, Assistant District Attorney Yuki Castellano, and crime writer Cindy Thomas, is under immense pressure to solve the crimes. However, their celebration is interrupted by a violent assault, leading them to investigate the case. As they dig deeper, they encounter a complicated situation with an unreliable witness and a shocking revelation. Yuki takes on the toughest case of her career while Lindsay pursues a high-society killer. Will they be able to solve the crimes and keep the Women's Murder Club intact?
