Are you a fan of heart-pounding thrillers, razor-sharp wit, and unforgettable characters? If so, the John Corey series by Nelson DeMille should be at the top of your reading list. As someone who has devoured every book in this series, I can tell you firsthand: once you meet John Corey, you’ll never forget him. In this comprehensive guide, I’ll walk you through the John Corey books in order, share background on the author, and help you discover why this series is a must-read for any suspense lover.
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Who Is John Corey?
John Corey is not your average detective. He’s a former NYPD homicide detective with a biting sense of humor, a healthy disregard for authority, and a relentless drive to solve the toughest cases. Corey is quick-witted, often politically incorrect, and never afraid to bend the rules if it means catching the bad guy. Over the course of the series, he transitions from local cop to a key player in the fight against terrorism, working with the FBI’s Anti-Terrorist Task Force and later taking on private investigative work.
About Nelson DeMille, the Author
The man behind John Corey is the late Nelson DeMille, a titan of the thriller genre. DeMille was a New York Times bestselling author with more than 20 novels to his name, including several #1 bestsellers. He was a combat-decorated U.S. Army veteran, a member of Mensa, and a past president of the Mystery Writers of America. DeMille’s writing is known for its smart plotting, sharp dialogue, and unforgettable characters. Sadly, he passed away in 2024, but his legacy lives on in the pages of his work.
Why Read the John Corey Series?
If you love thrillers that blend suspense, humor, and real-world intrigue, the John Corey series is for you. Each book delivers a unique blend of action, mystery, and character-driven storytelling. Whether you’re new to the series or looking to revisit it, reading the John Corey books in order ensures you catch every twist, relationship, and inside joke along the way.
John Corey Books in Order
Let’s get right to it: here’s the definitive list of John Corey books, both in publication and chronological order. For this series, the two orders are the same, making it easy for new readers to dive in without confusion.
Chronological and Publication Order
Below is a handy table listing every John Corey book, including the year of publication and notes on each entry.
| Order | Title | Year | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0.5 | The Book Case (Novella) | 2012 | Prequel novella, short read |
| 1 | Plum Island | 1997 | First full-length John Corey novel |
| 2 | The Lion’s Game | 2000 | Direct sequel, introduces major villain |
| 3 | Night Fall | 2004 | Inspired by real TWA Flight 800 crash |
| 4 | Wild Fire | 2006 | Nuclear terrorism plot |
| 5 | The Lion | 2010 | Sequel to The Lion’s Game |
| 6 | The Panther | 2012 | Corey and Kate in Yemen |
| 7 | Radiant Angel / A Quiet End | 2015 | Russian threat, UK title: A Quiet End |
| 8 | The Maze | 2022 | Latest, inspired by Gilgo Beach murders |
Should You Read Them in Order?
Absolutely! While each book features a self-contained story, the series is best enjoyed in order. The character development, recurring villains, and evolving relationships add depth and continuity that make the reading experience richer.
Detailed Summaries of Each John Corey Book
Let’s take a closer look at each installment so you know what to expect—and what makes each one special.
Plum Island (1997)
Plum Island introduces us to John Corey as he recovers from gunshot wounds at his uncle’s house on Long Island. He’s drawn into the murder investigation of two biologists from the nearby Plum Island Animal Disease Center—a facility rumored to be involved in secret biological warfare research. What starts as a local homicide quickly spirals into a high-stakes puzzle with national security implications.
The Lion’s Game (2000)
In The Lion’s Game, Corey joins the FBI’s Anti-Terrorist Task Force. He’s tasked with intercepting a Libyan terrorist, Asad Khalil (aka The Lion), at JFK Airport. Khalil isn’t defecting as hoped—he’s on a mission of vengeance, and Corey must race against time to stop a deadly plot on American soil.
Night Fall (2004)
Night Fall sees Corey reopening the investigation into the 1996 TWA Flight 800 crash. The book masterfully blends fact and fiction, as Corey uncovers a web of government secrets and cover-ups. It’s a tense, atmospheric thriller that keeps you guessing until the very end.
Wild Fire (2006)
In Wild Fire, Corey uncovers a chilling plot involving nuclear terrorism. A secret group of American elites plans to detonate nuclear bombs on U.S. soil to justify a retaliatory strike against the Middle East. Corey’s race to stop them is filled with suspense, dark humor, and classic DeMille twists.
The Lion (2010)
The Lion brings back Asad Khalil, the terrifying villain from The Lion’s Game. This time, Khalil is hunting Corey and his wife, FBI agent Kate Mayfield, across New York. The stakes are personal, and the action is relentless as Corey becomes both hunter and hunted.
The Panther (2012)
In The Panther, Corey and Kate travel to Yemen to track down a top Al Qaeda operative responsible for a devastating bombing. The unfamiliar terrain, shifting alliances, and constant danger make this one of the most intense entries in the series. The cultural and political complexities of Yemen add extra layers of intrigue.
The Book Case (2012, Novella)
The Book Case is a short prequel novella that gives us a glimpse of Corey’s earlier days. He investigates a murder in a New York City bookstore—a quick, satisfying read for fans who want more Corey between novels.
Radiant Angel / A Quiet End (2015)
In Radiant Angel (published as A Quiet End in the UK), Corey has left the Anti-Terrorist Task Force for a quieter job with the Diplomatic Surveillance Group. But when a Russian intelligence officer goes missing in the Hamptons, Corey uncovers a conspiracy that could threaten the world. The Russian threat feels especially timely and chilling.
The Maze (2022)
The latest entry, The Maze, finds Corey at loose ends after leaving his government job. He’s approached by his ex-girlfriend, Detective Beth Penrose, to join a suspicious private investigative firm. What starts as a seemingly mundane gig turns into a dangerous investigation inspired by the real-life Gilgo Beach murders. Corey’s trademark sarcasm and risk-taking are on full display as he navigates a web of corruption and murder.
Key Characters in the John Corey Series
While John Corey is the star, the supporting cast adds depth and color to the series.
John Corey: Character Profile
- Occupation: Former NYPD detective, FBI Anti-Terrorist Task Force agent, private investigator
- Personality: Witty, sarcastic, rebellious, fiercely intelligent
- Strengths: Brilliant investigative instincts, relentless determination
- Weaknesses: Disregard for authority, sometimes reckless, politically incorrect humor
Recurring Supporting Characters
- Kate Mayfield: FBI agent and Corey’s wife, a strong and capable partner in both life and investigations
- Beth Penrose: Suffolk County detective, Corey’s ex-girlfriend, and frequent ally
- Asad Khalil (The Lion): Corey’s most dangerous adversary, a master terrorist
- Various law enforcement colleagues: Each book introduces memorable new allies and antagonists
Themes and Features of the Series
The John Corey series stands out for several reasons:
Suspense and Action Elements
- High-stakes investigations with national and global implications
- Fast-paced plots that blend mystery, action, and political intrigue
- Realistic depictions of law enforcement and counterterrorism work
Humor and Dialogue
- Corey’s dry, often irreverent humor provides comic relief even in tense situations
- Sharp, witty dialogue sets the tone and makes the characters feel real
Real-World Inspirations
- Many plots are inspired by real events, such as the TWA Flight 800 crash and the Gilgo Beach murders
- Authentic settings, from Long Island to Yemen, immerse readers in the story
Omnibus Editions and Related Works
If you’re looking to collect or gift the series, several omnibus editions are available, such as “The John Corey Collection,” which bundles the first three novels. These editions are perfect for binge-reading or introducing new fans to the series.
Related Novellas and Spin-offs
- The Book Case serves as a prequel novella and is a great entry point for newcomers or a quick fix for longtime fans.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is There a Best Book to Start With?
Start with Plum Island. It’s the first book and introduces all the core elements of the series. While you can jump in elsewhere, beginning at the start provides the best experience.
Are There Upcoming John Corey Books?
As of now, The Maze (2022) is the latest entry. With Nelson DeMille’s passing in 2024, the future of the series is uncertain, but his existing works continue to captivate readers.
Will There Be a John Corey Adaptation?
There have been rumors and interest in adapting the series for film or television, but no official projects have been announced as of 2025.
Conclusion
The John Corey books in order offer a thrilling journey through crime, terrorism, and the complexities of human nature—all wrapped up in Nelson DeMille’s signature style. Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to the series, reading these books in order delivers the full impact of Corey’s adventures, relationships, and razor-sharp wit. If you’re ready for suspense, action, and a hero like no other, grab the first book and dive in. You won’t regret it.
