Zoe Sharp Books in Order

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

Zoe Sharp is a name that crime thriller fans around the world recognize and admire. Born in Nottinghamshire, England, and raised along the rugged northwest coast, Zoe has spent much of her life telling powerful, pulse-pounding stories. But long before she became one of the UK’s bestselling thriller authors, Zoe followed a different path—one filled with travel, photography, and a deep love for fast cars and adventure.

Zoe didn’t follow the usual route in her early education. Although she began her studies in a private girls’ school, she left traditional schooling at the young age of twelve to continue learning through correspondence courses. This bold decision marked the beginning of her independent spirit—a trait that would later shape not only her career but also her most famous fictional creation, Charlie Fox.

In her teenage years, Zoe tried many different jobs. But her passion for writing became clear when, in 1988, one of her articles was accepted for publication. From that point on, she was hooked. She began working as a freelance journalist for motoring magazines, writing about the kind of fast vehicles she’s still passionate about today. Photography soon followed, and both careers opened doors for her to travel across the world—from the United States and Europe to the distant corners of Japan. These international experiences helped her develop a sharp eye for detail and a deep understanding of people and places, skills that now shine in every one of her novels.

But it wasn’t until 2001 that Zoe truly found her calling as a novelist. That was the year she introduced readers to Charlie Fox in her debut book, Killer Instinct. The character of Charlie Fox—a tough, intelligent, ex-Special Forces officer—quickly struck a chord with readers who were craving a strong female lead in the thriller genre. Zoe has often said that Charlie was inspired in part by her own experiences in photojournalism, especially the time she faced real threats while on assignment. The danger she once lived through helped her create a character who’s believable, brave, and brilliantly human.

The Charlie Fox Thriller Series has since grown into a beloved collection of novels and novellas. With each book, Zoe dives deeper into the gritty world of crime, justice, and survival. Her stories often take place in the UK, but the stakes and action feel global. Many fans have compared Charlie Fox to a female version of Jack Reacher, and even Lee Child himself has praised Zoe’s writing.

As a full-time author today, Zoe Sharp continues to thrill readers with stories packed with suspense, emotion, and powerful character development. Her books have earned nominations for several prestigious awards, including the Edgar, the Macavity, and the Benjamin Franklin Award. She has also been shortlisted for the Short Story Dagger, a mark of recognition given only to the most talented crime writers.

Despite her success, Zoe remains grounded. She currently lives in the beautiful Lake District in England, a place known for its peaceful landscapes—quite a contrast to the intense, action-packed worlds she builds in her novels. When she’s not writing, she enjoys sailing, reading, and, true to her roots, driving fast cars and even faster motorbikes.

What makes Zoe Sharp truly special as an author is her ability to mix fast-paced action with real emotional depth. Her characters aren’t just chasing bad guys—they’re wrestling with their own pasts, their relationships, and what it means to do the right thing in a world that’s rarely black and white.

For readers new to her work, the best place to start is Killer Instinct, the explosive first book in the Charlie Fox series. But be warned—once you enter Charlie’s world, it’s hard to leave. Whether you’re a long-time fan or a new reader discovering Zoe Sharp for the first time, you’re in for a gripping ride through the dark and thrilling corners of crime fiction.