Where to start reading Harlan Coben
Most crime fiction aficionados will have at least one Harlan Coben title on their bookshelf. With multiple global bestsellers and Netflix shows based on his work, Coben is one of the most influential crime writers of our time.
His popularity makes sense: he is “the absolute master of huge twists and turns,” according to Richard Osman – and anyone who has read his work will be sure to agree.
Given his vast catalogue, including long-running series and gripping standalones, it can be hard to know where to begin reading Coben's work. That’s why we’ve rounded up the best Harlan Coben books to read first, from fast-paced thrillers to fan favourites.
What is the best Harlan Coben book to read first?
What is considered the best Harlan Coben book?
The best Harlan Coben books to read next
Frequently asked questions
How many Harlan Coben books are there?
As of 2025, Harlan Coben has written over 35 novels, spanning more than three decades. His books include both standalones and the popular Myron Bolitar series, many of which have been adapted into hit Netflix dramas that continue to introduce his work to new readers around the world.
What order should you read Harlan Coben books in?
Many of Coben’s thrillers are standalones, meaning you can pick up most of them in any order – including his most popular titles: Fool Me Once, Run Away and I Will Find You.
He does, however, have a long-running Myron Bolitar series, as well as a related spin-off focusing on the character Win. If you’d prefer to follow a consistent character arc, you can start with Deal Breaker (the first book of the Myron Bolitar series) and follow the books in order, ending with Think Twice.
Why are Harlan Coben series set in England?
Harlan Coben is an American author and many of his original novels are set in the US. However, several of his Netflix adaptations – including The Stranger, Safe and Fool Me Once – have been reimagined for UK audiences. Explaining his reasoning behind the move, Coben told CBS Mornings it was partly due to his “great team” in the UK.
"I have this great team over there [...] And so we just take the story and move it over, and I think that hybrid makes it richer, you know you see this cool house, sort of Downton Abbey-ish,” he told the show.
Moving the story to the UK brings a fresh perspective to his stories. "The combination of the American story with the hybrid of the British sensibilities, I think it makes the series a little bit better," Coben said.