Introduction
The Mercy Thompson series by Patricia Briggs is a cornerstone of urban fantasy, captivating readers with its thrilling blend of supernatural creatures, mystery, and romance. Centered on Mercedes “Mercy” Thompson, a coyote shapeshifter and Volkswagen mechanic in Tri-Cities, Washington, the series dives into a world of werewolves, vampires, and fae. With 14 novels and a rich collection of short stories, keeping track of the Mercy Thompson books in order can enhance your reading experience, ensuring you follow Mercy’s adventures seamlessly. Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to the Patricia Briggs Mercy Thompson series, this guide provides the definitive Mercy Thompson reading order, complete with publication dates and spoiler-free synopses. Ready to explore Mercy’s world? Dive into the list below and share your favorite book in the comments!
What is the Mercy Thompson Series?
The Patricia Briggs Mercy Thompson series is a beloved urban fantasy saga set in the Tri-Cities area of Washington, where supernatural beings like werewolves, vampires, and fae coexist with humans. The series follows Mercedes “Mercy” Thompson, a tough, independent mechanic who can shapeshift into a coyote due to her Native American heritage. Known for her wit and resilience, Mercy navigates a dangerous world filled with political intrigue, magical threats, and romantic entanglements. Fans of authors like Ilona Andrews or Charlaine Harris will love the series’ mix of action, mystery, and heartfelt character development. With its rich world-building and engaging plots, the Mercy Thompson series has become a must-read for urban fantasy enthusiasts, offering a thrilling escape into a world where the supernatural is just next door.
Mercy Thompson Books in Order: Complete List
Below is the complete list of Mercy Thompson books in order by publication, the recommended reading order for the best narrative experience. Each entry includes the publication year and a brief, spoiler-free synopsis.
- Moon Called (Book 1) – 2006
Mercy, a coyote shapeshifter, runs a garage in Tri-Cities when a young werewolf seeks her help, pulling her into a dangerous mystery involving her werewolf neighbor, Adam, and a deadly conspiracy. - Blood Bound (Book 2) – 2007
When Mercy’s vampire friend Stefan asks her to help deliver a message to another vampire, she uncovers a demonic threat that endangers her friends and the supernatural community. - Iron Kissed (Book 3) – 2008
Mercy assists her fae mentor, Zee, in investigating murders on a fae reservation, using her unique shapeshifting abilities to uncover a killer, but dark secrets put her in peril. - Bone Crossed (Book 4) – 2009
Haunted by a vampire queen’s wrath, Mercy faces new dangers while dealing with her growing bond with Adam and a ghostly presence tied to her past. - Silver Borne (Book 5) – 2010
Mercy tries to return a powerful fae book, only to discover it holds dangerous secrets, while her friend Samuel struggles with his werewolf nature, threatening his survival. - River Marked (Book 6) – 2011
On a honeymoon with Adam, Mercy encounters an ancient evil in the Columbia River and learns surprising truths about her Native American heritage and other walkers. - Frost Burned (Book 7) – 2013
When Adam and the werewolf pack are abducted, Mercy must rally unlikely allies to rescue them, uncovering a plot that threatens the fragile peace between humans and supernaturals. - Night Broken (Book 8) – 2014
Adam’s ex-wife seeks protection from a dangerous stalker, stirring tension in Mercy’s life as she battles supernatural threats and navigates pack dynamics. - Fire Touched (Book 9) – 2016
Mercy and Adam defend Tri-Cities from a troll attack and grant asylum to a fae boy, escalating tensions with the powerful Gray Lords of the fae. - Silence Fallen (Book 10) – 2017
Abducted by a powerful vampire, Mercy finds herself in Europe, fighting to survive while Adam and their allies race to save her from a global supernatural conspiracy. - Storm Cursed (Book 11) – 2019
As Mercy protects Tri-Cities from dark magic and goblin threats, she faces a storm of political intrigue among the fae and a new danger tied to witches. - Smoke Bitten (Book 12) – 2020
A mysterious shapeshifter threatens Tri-Cities, and Mercy must confront a dangerous entity from Underhill while protecting her pack and loved ones. - Soul Taken (Book 13) – 2022
When the vampire Wulfe goes missing, Mercy investigates, uncovering a sinister plot involving a magical artifact that could endanger the entire supernatural community. - Winter Lost (Book 14) – 2024
Mercy faces a winter storm and a powerful artifact tied to Norse mythology, testing her strength and alliances as she protects her home from supernatural chaos.
Chronological vs. Publication Order
The Mercy Thompson reading order is best followed in publication order, as listed above, to align with Patricia Briggs’ intended narrative progression. The chronological order largely mirrors publication, but some short stories and the Alpha and Omega series intersect with the timeline. For deeper context, consider Shifting Shadows (2014), a collection of short stories set in the Mercyverse, including “Silver,” “Roses in Winter,” and “Hollow.” These stories provide backstory but aren’t essential for the main series. The graphic novel Homecoming (2009) details Mercy’s arrival in Tri-Cities and is a great prequel, though it contains minor canon inconsistencies.
Related Books and the Alpha and Omega Series
The Mercy Thompson series shares its universe with the Alpha and Omega series, which follows Charles Cornick, a werewolf enforcer, and his Omega mate, Anna Latham. Set in the same world, the two series occasionally intersect, with characters like Mercy and Adam appearing in Alpha and Omega books. For the fullest experience, consider reading both series in publication order, as major events in one can spoil the other.
Alpha and Omega Books in Order:
- Alpha and Omega (novella, 2007, On the Prowl anthology)
- Cry Wolf (2008)
- Hunting Ground (2009)
- Fair Game (2012)
- Dead Heat (2015)
- Burn Bright (2018)
- Wild Sign (2021)
Graphic novels like Mercy Thompson: Moon Called (2011-2012) and Hopcross Jilly (2015) adapt main series events or offer side stories. Check Patricia Briggs’ official website for more details on these works.
Why You Should Read the Mercy Thompson Series
The Mercy Thompson series stands out for its compelling protagonist, rich world-building, and fast-paced plots, making it one of the best Mercy Thompson books to read for urban fantasy fans. Mercy’s underdog status as a coyote among powerful werewolves and vampires creates gripping tension, reminiscent of Buffy the Vampire Slayer or True Blood. Her resilience, humor, and loyalty resonate with readers, while the series’ blend of mystery, romance, and supernatural action keeps you hooked. Whether you love intricate lore or strong female leads, this series delivers. Start with Moon Called and dive into a world where the supernatural is thrillingly real.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Mercy Thompson Series
How many Mercy Thompson books are there?
As of 2025, there are 14 main novels in the Mercy Thompson series, plus short stories and graphic novels.
What is the best order to read the Mercy Thompson series?
Follow the publication order (listed above) for the best narrative flow. Including Alpha and Omega and Shifting Shadows enhances the experience but isn’t mandatory.
Are the Mercy Thompson and Alpha and Omega series connected?
Yes, they share the same universe, with overlapping characters and events. Reading both in publication order avoids spoilers.
Is there a Mercy Thompson TV show or movie?
Amazon has optioned the TV rights, but no show or movie has been released as of 2025. Check Patricia Briggs’ website for updates.
Conclusion
The Mercy Thompson books in order offer a thrilling journey through Patricia Briggs’ urban fantasy world, packed with shapeshifters, werewolves, and unforgettable adventures. Following the publication order ensures you experience Mercy’s story as intended, with each book building on the last. Whether you’re drawn to the action, romance, or rich lore, this series is a must-read. Start with Moon Called today—grab your copy and dive in! Which book is your favorite? Share in the comments or spread the word with fellow fantasy fans on social media. For more book recommendations, subscribe to our newsletter!
