Jonathan Kellerman Books in Order

This reading order guide provides the complete list of Jonathan Kellerman books in order, from the first to the latest, and is always updated so you won’t miss anything!

Jonathan Kellerman is a name that every fan of psychological thrillers and crime fiction should know. He is not just a bestselling author, but also a trained clinical psychologist, a dedicated researcher, and a man with a deep understanding of the human mind. What makes his writing so powerful is that it comes from real-life experience—not just imagination. His books are not only gripping stories, but also windows into the darker corners of the human psyche.

Born in New York City in 1949, Jonathan grew up surrounded by creativity and ambition. His father worked as an aerospace engineer, while his mother was a dancer. He spent his early childhood in Manhattan’s Lower East Side, a place full of stories and culture. But after a difficult move to Queens, his family eventually settled in Los Angeles, California—a city that would later become the main setting of many of his novels.

From a young age, Jonathan showed a strong interest in both writing and psychology. He studied psychology at UCLA and graduated in 1971. To support himself during college, he worked as a journalist, editor, and even a cartoonist—skills that would later help shape his storytelling style. He didn’t stop there. He continued his education at the University of Southern California and earned a Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology in 1974.

Jonathan’s early work wasn’t fiction—it was serious scientific research. He worked with children facing life-threatening illnesses and spent time studying how isolation affected their mental health. This was personal to him too, as he is a survivor of thyroid cancer. His research helped improve the emotional well-being of young patients, and it made a real difference in the medical community. He believed that treatments should heal the body and protect the mind—and he worked hard to make that a reality.

But even while working in hospitals and writing scientific papers, Kellerman had another passion: storytelling. His first nonfiction book, Savage Spawn: Reflections on Violent Children, was an insightful look into childhood psychopathology. Then in 1985, everything changed. He published his first novel, When the Bough Breaks. The book introduced readers to Alex Delaware, a forensic psychologist who helps solve crimes with the LAPD. It was a huge success, winning the Edgar and Anthony Awards for Best First Novel and eventually being turned into a TV movie.

That one novel launched a series that now includes dozens of titles. The Alex Delaware books are smart, suspenseful, and rich with psychological insight. One of the standout characters in the series is Detective Milo Sturgis, one of the first openly gay main characters in crime fiction. Kellerman’s honest and respectful portrayal of Milo earned praise from critics and the LGBTQ+ community alike. Instead of using stereotypes, he created a strong, complex character who became a fan favorite.

Kellerman’s success is not limited to just one series. He has also written standalone novels, nonfiction books, and even co-authored novels with his wife, fellow crime writer Faye Kellerman. Their partnership is both personal and professional, and they’ve raised four children together—including Jesse Kellerman, a successful novelist in his own right. The Kellerman family is truly a writing dynasty.

When he’s not writing about murder and mystery, Jonathan enjoys collecting vintage guitars. His book With Strings Attached: The Art and Beauty of Vintage Guitars is a celebration of music history, filled with beautiful photography and fascinating stories. It’s just another example of how passionate and multi-talented he is.

Today, Jonathan Kellerman lives in Beverly Hills, Los Angeles, surrounded by family, creativity, and inspiration. His unique blend of clinical knowledge and storytelling talent has made him one of the most respected voices in modern crime fiction. Readers around the world turn to his books for thrilling mysteries, layered characters, and a deeper understanding of the human condition. Whether you’re new to his work or a longtime fan, one thing is clear—Jonathan Kellerman’s stories stay with you long after you turn the last page.