Peter May is a master of suspense, weaving intricate plots and compelling characters into his novels. His books are known for their atmospheric settings and dark, thrilling narratives. But with several series and standalone novels, figuring out the best reading order can be tricky. This guide provides a comprehensive look at Peter May's works and suggests optimal reading sequences, catering to different preferences.
Which Peter May Book Should I Read First?
This depends entirely on your preferred genre and reading style. Peter May has three primary series, each with a distinct feel:
The Enzo Macleod Series (Scotland)
This series features the enigmatic and complex Enzo Macleod, a retired police detective grappling with the harsh landscapes and even harsher secrets of the Scottish Highlands and Islands. It's often cited as a starting point due to its self-contained nature within each book, allowing new readers to jump in without needing prior knowledge. The chronological order is recommended for this series:
- The Blackhouse
- The Lewis Man
- Taggart (While not explicitly part of the Enzo Macleod series, it features him and is often considered part of the narrative arc)
- The Coffinmaker
- The Chessmen
The China Series (China)
Set against the stunning, yet sometimes dangerous, backdrop of China, this series follows Li Yan, a young, ambitious detective dealing with murder investigations that often intertwine with the country’s complex political landscape. The books are more interconnected, so reading them in order is strongly advised for optimal narrative enjoyment:
- Where There's Blood
- The Last Days of Shanghai
- Gun Island
The Paris Series (France)
This series, featuring Parisian detective, Antoine Verlaque and his partner, Marine Bonnet, is a later addition to May’s catalog. These books provide a different setting and pace than the Scottish or Chinese series, focusing on smaller-scale mysteries within the vibrant city of Paris. These are also self-contained, so you can read them in any order, though maintaining the published order enhances the character development:
- An Inspector Calls
- The Red on the Side of the Seine
- A Silent Death
How Many Peter May Books Are There?
Beyond the main series mentioned above, Peter May has also penned several standalone novels. The total number of books, including both series and standalone titles, varies depending on how you categorize them and includes publications in various forms. It's best to check a comprehensive bibliography for the most up-to-date count.
What are the Best Peter May Books?
Choosing the "best" is subjective and depends on personal preferences. However, consistently popular titles among readers include The Blackhouse, lauded for its atmospheric setting and gripping mystery, and Where There's Blood, praised for its authentic portrayal of China and its complex characters.
Are Peter May Books a Series?
As explained above, Peter May’s works are primarily organized into several distinct series, each with its own set of characters and storylines. However, he has also written standalone novels outside these established series.
In What Order Should I Read Peter May's Books?
The best reading order depends on which series most interests you. Within each series, chronological order is generally recommended. For readers who enjoy a mix of settings and characters, you might consider starting with the Enzo Macleod series, then exploring the others.
Which Peter May Series is Best?
There's no single "best" series; it’s entirely a matter of personal taste. The Scotland series offers atmospheric mysteries in a rugged landscape, the China series provides a different cultural experience with thrilling political intrigue, and the Paris series offers a more intimate, urban setting.
This guide offers a comprehensive starting point for navigating the world of Peter May’s novels. Enjoy the thrill!
