If you’re searching for Charlie Thorne books in order, you’ve come to the right place! Part of the popular Stuart Gibbs books collection, this action-packed middle-grade adventure series follows the brilliant and rebellious 12-year-old genius Charlie Thorne as she races against dangerous enemies to uncover hidden treasures and secrets left by history’s greatest minds. Blending high-stakes thrills, historical facts, clever puzzles, and non-stop excitement, this series is perfect for fans of Spy School, Percy Jackson, or Alex Rider.
Whether you’re a parent looking for engaging reads for tweens, a teacher recommending books for reluctant readers, or a young adventurer yourself, the Charlie Thorne series delivers page-turning fun with a smart female protagonist who outsmarts everyone. As of December 2025, there are four books in the series, and reading them in publication order is essential to follow Charlie’s evolving story and character growth.
Why Read the Charlie Thorne Books in Order?
The first book introduces you to Charlie’s world properly—from her recruitment by the CIA to her daring escapades around the globe. Each installment builds on the last, with recurring characters, escalating dangers, and hints of larger conspiracies. Skipping ahead might spoil key twists!
The series, which kicks off in 2019, has captivated readers with its blend of science, history, and espionage. Let’s dive into the complete Charlie Thorne books in order:
Charlie Thorne Books In Order: The Complete Guide to Stuart Gibbs’ Thrilling Series
1. Charlie Thorne and the Last Equation (2019)
The book that started it all! Charlie Thorne is a genius, a thief, and not even old enough to drive. When the CIA drags her into a high-stakes hunt for a powerful equation hidden by Albert Einstein—one that could change the world or destroy it—Charlie must outwit a ruthless terrorist group called the Furies.
This fast-paced thriller spans the globe, packed with code-breaking, chases, and cliffhangers. It’s the perfect entry point and often praised as “a real page-burner” by authors like Chris Grabenstein. Ideal for introducing kids to STEM concepts through Einstein’s legacy.
2. Charlie Thorne and the Lost City (2021)
Charlie’s adventures continue in South America as she deciphers clues left by Charles Darwin. A mysterious visitor leads her to a long-lost treasure from Darwin’s voyages—one with immense power.
Facing rival treasure hunters, intelligence agencies, and treacherous jungles, Charlie proves she’s not just smart but resourceful and fearless. This installment amps up the exploration theme, blending biology, history, and heart-pounding action in the Amazon.
3. Charlie Thorne and the Curse of Cleopatra (2022)
Now Charlie tackles ancient Egypt! Cleopatra hid an extraordinarily valuable treasure with clues encoded on a stone tablet. In a breathless race across the globe, Charlie battles ruthless enemies to solve a 2,000-year-old mystery and prevent the artifact from falling into dangerous hands.
This book dives into historical intrigue with pharaohs, puzzles, and pyramids (figuratively speaking). It’s full of twists, strong character development, and Gibbs’ signature humor—making it a standout for history buffs.
4. Charlie Thorne and the Royal Society (2024)
The most recent addition! Charlie chases a secret discovery by Isaac Newton, leading to rooftop chases in Cambridge, climbs on the Sydney Harbour Bridge, and has close calls with volcanic eruptions across Europe and Australia.
With even higher stakes and a formidable new adversary, this book tests Charlie like never before. Fans love the physics tie-ins and global settings—it’s a thrilling escalation that leaves readers hoping for more.
Complete Charlie Thorne Series in Order
| # | Title | Publication Date | Historical Figure | Quick Plot Tease |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Charlie Thorne and the Last Equation | September 10, 2019 | Albert Einstein | CIA recruits genius thief Charlie to find Einstein’s world-altering equation before terrorists do. Global chases and code-breaking kick off the series! |
| 2 | Charlie Thorne and the Lost City | March 2, 2021 | Charles Darwin | Charlie deciphers Darwin’s clues to a powerful lost treasure in the Amazon jungle amid rival hunters. |
| 3 | Charlie Thorne and the Curse of Cleopatra | May 31, 2022 | Cleopatra | Racing across the world, Charlie solves a 2,000-year-old puzzle for Cleopatra’s ultimate treasure before enemies claim it. |
| 4 | Charlie Thorne and the Royal Society | April 23, 2024 | Isaac Newton | Highest stakes yet: Newton’s secret from Cambridge rooftops to Sydney Harbour Bridge and volcanoes. Latest book (no more as of Dec 2025). |
Boxed Sets and Collections
If you want to binge the whole series, look for:
- The Charlie Thorne Collection (Books 1-3)
- The Charlie Thorne Complete Collection (All four books in a hardcover boxed set)
These make great gifts for young readers diving into the series!
Is There a Fifth Charlie Thorne Book Coming?
As of late 2025, Stuart Gibbs hasn’t announced a new Charlie Thorne installment. The series wrapped strongly with book four, but Gibbs is prolific—keep an eye on his website or social media for updates. In the meantime, check out his other hits like the Spy School or FunJungle series for similar excitement.
Why Fans Love the Charlie Thorne Series
- Empowering Heroine: Charlie is brilliantly smart, sarcastic, and independent—a role model for girls in STEM and adventure stories.
- Educational Yet Fun: Real history and science woven seamlessly into fiction.
- Non-Stop Action: Chases, puzzles, betrayals, and humor keep pages turning.
- Age-Appropriate Thrills: Recommended for ages 9-14, with clean content and positive messages.
Ready to join Charlie on her quests? Grab Charlie Thorne and the Last Equation first—you won’t be able to stop at one!
What’s your favorite book in the Charlie Thorne series? Share in the comments, and happy reading!
