If you’re a fan of gripping crime thrillers, atmospheric mysteries, or richly developed characters, Elly Griffiths is an author you need to know. With her knack for weaving suspenseful plots and vivid settings, Griffiths has become a beloved name in the mystery genre. Whether you’re diving into the windswept Norfolk marshes with Dr. Ruth Galloway or stepping into the post-war Brighton stage with Max Mephisto, this guide will walk you through all of Elly Griffiths’ books in order, ensuring you experience her series the way they were meant to be read.
In this post, we’ll explore Griffiths’ four main series—Ruth Galloway, Brighton Mysteries (Stephens & Mephisto), Harbinder Kaur, and Justice Jones—along with her standalone novels and works under her real name, Domenica de Rosa. Plus, we’ll share tips on where to start and why her stories keep readers hooked. Let’s dive in!
Who Is Elly Griffiths?
Elly Griffiths, the pen name of Domenica de Rosa, is a British author born in 1963 in London. Her pseudonym, inspired by her grandmother Ellen Griffiths, was chosen to give her crime novels a fresh, modern feel. Griffiths draws inspiration from her archaeologist husband and her aunt’s tales of the Norfolk coast, creating stories that blend history, mystery, and human connection. With over 30 books across multiple series, her work is celebrated for its compelling characters, atmospheric settings, and clever plots.
Ready to explore her books? Below, we’ve organized them by series and publication order, with a sprinkle of reader-friendly insights to help you choose your next read.
List of Elly Griffiths Books In Order of release
Below is a complete list of all books by Elly Griffiths (pen name of Domenica de Rosa), including her works published under both names, organized by release date. The table includes her crime series (Ruth Galloway, Brighton Mysteries, Harbinder Kaur, Justice Jones, and Ali Dawson), standalone novels, short stories, and non-fiction.
| Year | Title | Series/Note |
|---|---|---|
| 2001 | A Taste for Shakespeare | Non-fiction (as Domenica de Rosa) |
| 2004 | The Italian Quarter | Standalone (as Domenica de Rosa) |
| 2005 | The Eternal City | Standalone (as Domenica de Rosa) |
| 2008 | One Summer in Tuscany | Standalone (as Domenica de Rosa) |
| 2009 | The Crossing Places | Ruth Galloway #1 |
| 2010 | The Janus Stone | Ruth Galloway #2 |
| 2011 | The House at Sea’s End | Ruth Galloway #3 |
| 2012 | A Room Full of Bones | Ruth Galloway #4 |
| 2012 | Ruth’s First Christmas Tree | Ruth Galloway Short Story |
| 2013 | A Dying Fall | Ruth Galloway #5 |
| 2014 | The Outcast Dead | Ruth Galloway #6 |
| 2014 | The Zig Zag Girl | Brighton Mysteries #1 |
| 2015 | The Ghost Fields | Ruth Galloway #7 |
| 2015 | Smoke and Mirrors | Brighton Mysteries #2 |
| 2016 | The Woman in Blue | Ruth Galloway #8 |
| 2016 | The Blood Card | Brighton Mysteries #3 |
| 2017 | The Chalk Pit | Ruth Galloway #9 |
| 2017 | The Vanishing Box | Brighton Mysteries #4 |
| 2017 | The Secrets of Villa Rosso | Standalone (as Domenica de Rosa) |
| 2018 | The Dark Angel | Ruth Galloway #10 |
| 2018 | The Stranger Diaries | Harbinder Kaur #1 |
| 2019 | The Stone Circle | Ruth Galloway #11 |
| 2019 | Now You See Them | Brighton Mysteries #5 |
| 2019 | A Girl Called Justice | Justice Jones #1 |
| 2020 | The Lantern Men | Ruth Galloway #12 |
| 2020 | The Ghost in the Garden | Justice Jones #2 |
| 2020 | The Smugglers’ Secret | Justice Jones #3 |
| 2020 | The Postscript Murders | Harbinder Kaur #2 |
| 2021 | The Night Hawks | Ruth Galloway #13 |
| 2021 | The Midnight Hour | Brighton Mysteries #6 |
| 2022 | The Locked Room | Ruth Galloway #14 |
| 2022 | The Spy at the Window | Justice Jones #4 |
| 2022 | Bleeding Heart Yard | Harbinder Kaur #3 |
| 2023 | The Last Remains | Ruth Galloway #15 |
| 2023 | The Great Deceiver | Brighton Mysteries #7 |
| 2023 | The Man in Black and Other Stories | Short Story Collection |
| 2024 | The Last Word | Harbinder Kaur #4 |
| 2025 | The Frozen People | Ali Dawson #1 |
Notes:
- The Ruth Galloway series is best read in order due to character development and ongoing story arcs.
- The Brighton Mysteries (also called Stephens & Mephisto or Magic Men) benefit from reading in order for historical context and character relationships.
- The Harbinder Kaur books can be read as standalones, though reading in order enhances character familiarity.
- The Justice Jones series is aimed at younger readers and can be read independently or in order.
- The Ali Dawson series, starting with The Frozen People (2025), introduces a time-traveling cold case team.
- Books under Domenica de Rosa are typically family sagas or romances, distinct from Griffiths’ crime novels.
- For the latest updates on new releases, check Elly Griffiths’ official website (ellygriffiths.co.uk) or follow her on X (@ellygriffiths17).
Ruth Galloway Series: Forensic Archaeology Meets Crime
The Ruth Galloway series is Griffiths’ crown jewel, featuring Dr. Ruth Galloway, a forensic archaeologist navigating mysteries in the haunting Norfolk salt marshes. With 16 novels and a short story, this series is perfect for readers who love archaeology, complex characters, and slow-burn suspense. Ruth, a witty and relatable heroine, teams up with DCI Harry Nelson to solve crimes that blend ancient history with modern-day murder.
Ruth Galloway Books in Order
- The Crossing Places (2009)
Ruth’s first case involves bones found on a Norfolk beach, linked to a missing girl. This award-winning debut (Mary Higgins Clark Award, 2011) sets the tone with its atmospheric setting and layered characters.
Why read it? A perfect blend of archaeology and mystery, introducing Ruth’s sharp humor and the rugged Norfolk coast. - The Janus Stone (2010)
Ruth investigates a child’s skeleton uncovered at a construction site, uncovering a chilling World War II-era crime.
Why read it? The stakes rise as Ruth balances motherhood and danger, with Nelson’s complex relationship adding depth. - The House at Sea’s End (2011)
Bones on a remote beach lead Ruth and Nelson to a wartime secret guarded by a Home Guard veteran.
Why read it? A gripping mix of history and suspense, with Ruth juggling new motherhood. - A Room Full of Bones (2012)
A medieval bishop’s coffin and a curator’s death pull Ruth into a case involving Aboriginal skulls and drug smuggling.
Why read it? Rich cultural themes and Ruth’s evolving relationships keep you hooked. - Ruth’s First Christmas Tree (2012, Short Story)
A festive tale set between books 4 and 5, perfect for fans craving a cozy Ruth moment.
Why read it? A quick, heartwarming read, though not essential to the main series. - A Dying Fall (2013)
Ruth investigates a friend’s death and ancient bones, uncovering a sinister academic conspiracy.
Why read it? A change of setting to Lancashire adds fresh intrigue. - The Outcast Dead (2014)
Ruth digs up the remains of a notorious murderess, sparking a modern-day mystery.
Why read it? Historical and contemporary crimes collide, with Ruth’s empathy shining. - The Ghost Fields (2015)
A WWII plane crash and buried secrets pull Ruth into another haunting case.
Why read it? The Norfolk landscape and wartime history create an eerie backdrop. - The Woman in Blue (2016)
Visions of the Virgin Mary and a string of murders lead Ruth to England’s Nazareth.
Why read it? Religious fanaticism adds a unique twist to the series. - The Chalk Pit (2017)
Ruth explores Norwich’s abandoned tunnels, where murders lurk in the dark.
Why read it? Claustrophobic settings and Ruth’s tenacity make this a standout. - The Dark Angel (2018)
Ruth travels to Italy for a dig, only to face a deadly mystery.
Why read it? A rare international adventure for Ruth, blending romance and suspense. - The Stone Circle (2019)
A new stone circle discovery echoes Ruth’s first case, unearthing old secrets.
Why read it? A nostalgic nod to The Crossing Places with fresh twists. - The Lantern Men (2020)
A convicted murderer leads Ruth to hidden bodies in the marshes.
Why read it? High-stakes drama and Ruth’s personal struggles intensify. - The Night Hawks (2021)
Amateur archaeologists stumble upon a Bronze Age find—and a fresh corpse.
Why read it? Ruth’s disdain for amateurs adds humor to this thrilling installment. - The Locked Room (2022)
Pandemic lockdowns isolate Ruth, but a string of murder-suicides draws her to Nelson.
Why read it? A timely setting and emotional depth resonate with readers. - The Last Remains (2023)
The final Ruth Galloway novel (for now?) wraps up lingering mysteries.
Why read it? A bittersweet farewell to beloved characters, with fans begging for more.
Pro Tip: Start with The Crossing Places and read in publication order for the best experience, as Ruth’s personal life and relationships evolve alongside the mysteries. Fans love Ruth’s vulnerability, her love for her cats, and her dynamic with Nelson, making this series a must-read for character-driven mystery lovers.
Brighton Mysteries (Stephens & Mephisto): Post-War Theatrical Thrills
The Brighton Mysteries, also known as the Stephens & Mephisto or Magic Men series, transport readers to 1950s Brighton, where DI Edgar Stephens and magician Max Mephisto solve crimes rooted in their wartime “Magic Men” past. This series, with seven books, blends historical drama, theatrical flair, and clever mysteries.
Brighton Mysteries Books in Order
- The Zig Zag Girl (2014)
A girl cut into three pieces mimics a magic trick, pulling Edgar and Max into a shocking case.
Why read it? A creative premise and vibrant post-war Brighton setting kick off the series. - Smoke and Mirrors (2015)
Two children are murdered in a grim fairy-tale tableau, testing Edgar and Max’s bond.
Why read it? The 1950s pantomime world and deep character development shine. - The Blood Card (2016)
A royal coronation and a deadly plot intertwine, with Max and Edgar racing against time.
Why read it? Historical intrigue and high stakes keep you guessing. - The Vanishing Box (2017)
A theatrical murder in Brighton’s variety scene draws Max and Edgar into danger.
Why read it? The stage magic backdrop adds a dazzling layer to the mystery. - Now You See Them (2019)
A missing girl and a changing Brighton backdrop challenge the duo.
Why read it? The swinging ’60s vibe refreshes the series. - The Midnight Hour (2021)
A poisoner stalks Brighton, and Max’s past comes under scrutiny.
Why read it? Family secrets and a darker tone elevate the suspense. - The Great Deceiver (2023)
The final book (so far) sees Max and Edgar facing a cunning killer.
Why read it? A satisfying capstone with theatrical flair and emotional depth.
Pro Tip: Read in order to follow Edgar and Max’s evolving friendship and the shifting Brighton backdrop. This series is ideal for fans of historical mysteries with a touch of showbiz glamour.
Harbinder Kaur Series: Modern Whodunits with a Literary Twist
The Harbinder Kaur series features DI Harbinder Kaur, a sharp, modern detective tackling bookish mysteries. These standalone novels, connected by Harbinder’s presence, are perfect for readers who enjoy cozy yet clever whodunits with a literary flair.
Harbinder Kaur Books in Order
- The Stranger Diaries (2018)
A gothic thriller about a teacher’s murder and a haunted manuscript.
Why read it? A chilling, book-lover’s mystery that won the 2020 Edgar Award. - The Postscript Murders (2020)
A group of amateur sleuths—Natalka, Benedict, and Edwin—join Harbinder to solve a writer’s murder.
Why read it? A delightful cast and meta-mystery make this a fan favorite. - Bleeding Heart Yard (2022)
Harbinder investigates a politician’s past linked to a decades-old murder.
Why read it? A darker, more intense case with Harbinder’s wit as the highlight. - The Last Word (2024)
Natalka and Edwin’s detective agency tackles a writer’s death at a suspicious retreat.
Why read it? A cozy yet twisty standalone with a vibrant writing retreat setting.
Pro Tip: These books can be read as standalones, but starting with The Stranger Diaries introduces Harbinder’s sharp perspective. Perfect for fans of Agatha Christie with a modern edge.
Justice Jones Series: Mysteries for Young Readers
The Justice Jones series targets younger readers, following a brave girl solving crimes at her boarding school. With four books, it’s ideal for teens or parents looking for engaging, not-too-dark mysteries.
Justice Jones Books in Order
- A Girl Called Justice (2019)
Justice Jones navigates boarding school and a murder mystery after her mother’s death.
Why read it? A heartfelt, accessible thriller for young readers. - The Ghost in the Garden (2020)
Justice uncovers a ghostly mystery at her school.
Why read it? Spooky yet fun, with Justice’s pluck stealing the show. - The Smugglers’ Secret (2020)
A smuggling ring and a school secret test Justice’s sleuthing skills.
Why read it? Adventure and mystery blend seamlessly for young fans. - The Spy at the Window (2022)
Justice faces her toughest case yet, with espionage at play.
Why read it? A thrilling conclusion with emotional depth.
Pro Tip: Perfect for young mystery fans or family read-alongs, this series offers light suspense with strong emotional resonance.
Ali Dawson Series: A Time-Travel Twist
The Ali Dawson series, launched in 2025, introduces a time-traveling cold case team. Only one book is out so far, but it’s a fresh addition to Griffiths’ catalog.
Ali Dawson Books in Order
- The Frozen People (2025)
Ali Dawson’s team travels back in time to solve ancient crimes.
Why read it? A speculative, thrilling departure from Griffiths’ usual mysteries.
Pro Tip: Dive in if you love sci-fi-infused mysteries. Check back for updates on future releases!
Standalone Novels and Short Stories
Griffiths has also written standalone works and short story collections, often under her real name, Domenica de Rosa. These offer a change of pace from her series.
- The Italian Quarter (2004, as Domenica de Rosa)
A family saga set in London’s Italian community.
Why read it? A heartfelt, non-mystery read for fans of historical fiction. - The Eternal City (2005, as Domenica de Rosa)
A Roman family’s secrets unfold across generations.
Why read it? Rich Italian history and emotional storytelling. - One Summer in Tuscany (2008, as Domenica de Rosa)
A romantic and comedic tale of a writing retreat in Tuscany.
Why read it? A light, escapist read for cozy evenings. - The Secrets of Villa Rosso (2017, as Domenica de Rosa)
A woman uncovers her family’s past in an Italian villa.
Why read it? Perfect for readers craving mystery with a Mediterranean vibe. - The Man in Black and Other Stories (2023)
A collection of short stories featuring Griffiths’ signature characters.
Why read it? A treat for fans wanting more of Ruth, Harbinder, and others.
Non-Fiction by Elly Griffiths
- A Taste for Shakespeare (2001, as Domenica de Rosa)
A collection of Shakespearean quotes tied to food, with 16th-century-inspired recipes.
Why read it? A unique, culinary take on the Bard for literature lovers.
Why Read Elly Griffiths?
Elly Griffiths’ books stand out for their:
- Atmospheric Settings: From Norfolk’s haunting marshes to Brighton’s theatrical buzz, her settings are characters in themselves.
- Relatable Characters: Ruth’s vulnerabilities, Harbinder’s wit, and Justice’s courage resonate with readers of all ages.
- Clever Plots: Griffiths weaves history, archaeology, and literary themes into intricate mysteries.
- Emotional Depth: Her stories balance suspense with human struggles, making characters feel like old friends.
Fans rave about her ability to blend “gripping plots with warmth and tenderness,” with many calling Ruth Galloway “like a friend you can’t wait to catch up with.”
Where to Start?
- For mystery purists: Begin with The Crossing Places (Ruth Galloway #1) for its archaeological intrigue and slow-burn character arcs.
- For historical drama fans: Try The Zig Zag Girl (Brighton Mysteries #1) for its post-war theatrical vibe.
- For cozy mystery lovers: Pick up The Stranger Diaries (Harbinder Kaur #1) for a literary whodunit.
- For young readers: Start with A Girl Called Justice for an accessible, thrilling adventure.
- For a quick standalone: The Last Word or The Italian Quarter offer self-contained stories with Griffiths’ signature charm.
Where to Find Elly Griffiths’ Books
Many of Griffiths’ novels, like The Dark Angel and The Postscript Murders, are available as audiobooks on platforms like Speechify, perfect for on-the-go listening. Check Amazon for paperbacks and Kindle editions, or visit your local library for physical copies. For the latest releases, follow Griffiths on X (@ellygriffiths17) or visit her website, ellygriffiths.co.uk, for updates.
What’s Next for Elly Griffiths?
While The Last Remains may be Ruth Galloway’s final chapter (for now), Griffiths’ newest series, Ali Dawson, kicked off with The Frozen People in 2025. Fans are also buzzing about her short story collection, The Man in Black and Other Stories. With no new Ruth Galloway book announced, keep an eye on Griffiths’ website for updates on future projects.
Final Thoughts
Elly Griffiths’ books offer something for every mystery lover, from the windswept archaeology of the Ruth Galloway series to the theatrical charm of Brighton Mysteries and the cozy whodunits of Harbinder Kaur. By reading her series in order, you’ll fully appreciate the character growth and intricate plotting that make her work so special. So, grab a copy of The Crossing Places or your series of choice, settle in with a cup of tea, and get lost in Griffiths’ world of suspense and heart.
Which Elly Griffiths series are you starting with? Share your thoughts in the comments below, and happy reading!
