If you’ve ever found yourself staying up way too late because just one more chapter turned into the whole book, then you’ve probably already fallen under the spell of Kristin Hannah. Her novels have a way of grabbing your heart, squeezing it tight, and not letting go until long after you’ve turned the last page. Whether it’s the sweeping historical drama of The Nightingale or the emotional depth of Firefly Lane, Kristin Hannah knows how to tell a story that sticks with you.
With more than 20 books under her belt, it can be a little overwhelming to figure out where to start—or what to read next. Should you go in order of publication? Jump into one of her series? Or just dive right into her most popular hits?
In this guide, we’ll walk you through all of Kristin Hannah’s books in order, from her earliest works to her bestselling blockbusters. We’ll cover:
- A full chronological list of her novels
- Her series (yes, Firefly Lane has a sequel!)
- The most popular titles for first-time readers
- Themed recommendations based on your reading style
So whether you’re brand new to her work or looking to revisit old favorites, this list will help you navigate the emotional rollercoaster that is Kristin Hannah’s literary world. Let’s dive in!
Kristin Hannah Books in Order of Publication
Kristin Hannah has been writing heartfelt, emotional novels since the early ’90s. Whether you want to read every book in the order they came out or just explore how her storytelling has evolved, this list will guide you from her earliest contemporary romances to her more recent historical fiction masterpieces.
1990s
1. A Handful of Heaven (1991)
A fierce Alaskan trading post owner meets his match in an unexpected partnership with a strong-willed city woman.
2. The Enchantment (1992)
A magical romance unfolds between a medieval knight and a modern woman who’s mysteriously transported back in time.
3. Once in Every Life (1992)
After a tragic accident, a brilliant scientist wakes up in the body of a 19th-century frontier mother.
4. If You Believe (1993)
A reclusive woman with a painful past learns to love again when a mysterious stranger arrives at her farm.
5. When Lightning Strikes (1994)
A bestselling author finds herself inside the world of her romance novel—and face to face with her fictional hero.
6. Waiting for the Moon (1995)
A brilliant man falls in love with a mysterious woman who has no memory but may be the key to his healing.
7. Home Again (1996)
Two estranged sisters reunite when one of them, a celebrated doctor, faces a health crisis that forces them to confront the past.
8. On Mystic Lake (1999)
After her husband leaves her, a woman returns to her hometown and rediscovers herself—and an old love.
2000s
9. Angel Falls (2000)
A man must decide how far he’s willing to go to keep his family together when his wife falls into a coma.
10. Summer Island (2001)
A young woman reconnects with her estranged mother, a famous radio talk show host, after a public scandal.
11. Distant Shores (2002)
A woman questions her identity and purpose when her marriage begins to unravel.
12. Between Sisters (2003)
Two sisters with very different lives confront long-held secrets as they try to rebuild their broken bond.
13. The Things We Do for Love (2004)
A woman desperate for a family opens her heart and home to a troubled teenage girl.
14. Comfort & Joy (2005)
A holiday romance brings healing and hope to a woman recovering from a painful divorce.
15. Magic Hour (2006)
A child psychologist tries to reach a mysterious, feral girl who appears out of the forest with no memory or language.
16. Firefly Lane (2008)
A decades-long friendship between two women is tested by ambition, love, and betrayal.
2010s
17. True Colors (2009)
Three sisters are torn apart by secrets, jealousy, and the man they all loved.
18. Winter Garden (2010)
Two sisters uncover their mother’s haunting past through a Russian fairy tale that turns out to be all too real.
19. Night Road (2011)
A single mistake leads to tragic consequences that tear a family apart and test the meaning of forgiveness.
20. Home Front (2012)
A military pilot and mother faces deployment to Iraq, putting a strain on her marriage and her children.
21. Fly Away (2013)
The sequel to Firefly Lane, this novel explores grief, redemption, and the lasting power of friendship.
22. The Nightingale (2015)
Two sisters in Nazi-occupied France risk everything to survive—and to resist—in one of Hannah’s most powerful novels.
23. The Great Alone (2018)
A family seeking a fresh start in remote Alaska is pushed to the brink by the harsh wilderness and buried trauma.
2020s
24. The Four Winds (2021)
Set during the Dust Bowl, this epic tale follows one woman’s courageous fight to survive and protect her family.
25. The Women (2024)
A moving tribute to the often-forgotten female nurses of the Vietnam War, told through the eyes of a young woman who volunteers to serve.
Kristin Hannah Book Series in Order
While most of Kristin Hannah’s novels are standalone stories, she does have one beloved series that fans continue to rave about. If you’re planning to read her Firefly Lane books, you’ll want to follow the proper order to get the full emotional experience.
1. Firefly Lane Series
1. Firefly Lane (2008)
This unforgettable story follows Tully and Kate, two best friends from eighth grade through adulthood, as they navigate love, loss, motherhood, and the complexities of a decades-long friendship. It’s a beautiful, bittersweet tale of loyalty, growing up, and growing apart.
2. Fly Away (2013)
The emotional sequel picks up in the aftermath of Firefly Lane, exploring how those left behind deal with grief, forgiveness, and healing. Told through the perspectives of multiple characters, it’s a raw, reflective follow-up that gives readers closure and a few more tears.
That’s it for series order—Kristin Hannah writes most of her novels as standalones, which means you can jump into many of them without needing to read anything beforehand. But if you’re diving into Tully and Kate’s world, definitely read them in order for the full journey.
Up next, we’ll help you figure out the best place to start reading Kristin Hannah if you’re new to her work!
Most Popular Kristin Hannah Books (Recommended Reading Order for New Readers)
Not sure where to start? You don’t have to read Kristin Hannah’s books in order to enjoy them. If you’re new to her work, these five fan favorites are great starting points—depending on what kind of story you’re looking for.
1. The Nightingale (2015)
Set in World War II France, this novel follows two sisters who resist the Nazis in different ways.
Best for: Historical fiction lovers who enjoy powerful, emotional stories about courage and sacrifice.
2. The Great Alone (2018)
A family moves to remote Alaska for a fresh start, but the harsh winter brings dark truths to light.
Best for: Readers who love survival stories, strong settings, and complex family drama.
3. The Four Winds (2021)
During the Dust Bowl era, a mother must choose between staying on her land or searching for a better life.
Best for: Fans of historical fiction, especially those drawn to stories of resilience and motherhood.
4. Winter Garden (2010)
Two daughters uncover their mother’s secret past in Soviet Russia, hidden behind a cold and distant exterior.
Best for: Readers who enjoy family secrets, dual timelines, and emotional depth.
5. Firefly Lane (2008)
This novel follows a lifelong friendship between two very different women from the 1970s to today.
Best for: Fans of emotional sagas, female friendships, and nostalgic coming-of-age stories.
Want something emotional, gripping, and beautifully written? Any one of these will pull you in. Let your mood guide you!
Kristin Hannah’s Historical Fiction Novels (For Genre Fans)
If you love history mixed with emotion, Kristin Hannah’s historical fiction is a must. These novels take real-life events and turn them into powerful, personal stories. They also mark a shift from her earlier contemporary fiction, which focused more on modern family life and relationships.
1. The Nightingale – WWII France
Two sisters take different paths to survive the Nazi occupation.
This book is raw, heartbreaking, and unforgettable.
It’s perfect for readers who want a story about bravery and love during wartime.
2. The Four Winds – Dust Bowl Era
Set in 1930s Texas, a mother fights to save her family as drought and poverty close in.
It’s an epic tale of survival and strength during one of America’s hardest times.
Ideal for fans of The Grapes of Wrath or sweeping, historical sagas.
3. The Women – Vietnam War
This novel follows a young nurse who volunteers to serve in Vietnam—and faces rejection when she returns home.
It shines a light on the forgotten women who served.
A gripping and emotional tribute to real-life heroes.
These novels stand apart from Kristin Hannah’s earlier books. Her contemporary stories are rooted in present-day relationships. But her historical fiction dives deep into the past, blending research and emotion in every chapter.
If you want some more historical fiction recommendations, check out this list!
If you’re reading Kristin Hannah books in order, you’ll notice how her style evolves—especially as she moves into these rich, historical narratives.
Upcoming Books by Kristin Hannah
As of now, Kristin Hannah has announced a new novel titled Another Life, set to be released on August 28, 2025. This upcoming book promises to delve into themes of family and motherhood, continuing Hannah’s tradition of heartfelt storytelling.
If you’re eager to stay updated on Kristin Hannah’s latest works, consider signing up for her newsletter or following her on social media platforms like Instagram and Facebook. This way, you’ll be among the first to know about new releases and exclusive content.
In the meantime, exploring Kristin Hannah books in order is a fantastic way to immerse yourself in her literary world. Whether you’re revisiting old favorites or discovering her novels for the first time, there’s a wealth of emotional and compelling stories waiting for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
In what order should I read Kristin Hannah’s books?
You can read Kristin Hannah books in order of publication if you want to follow her writing journey from start to present. However, most of her novels are standalones, so you can jump in anywhere. A great place to begin is with her most popular titles, like The Nightingale or Firefly Lane.
Which Kristin Hannah book is considered her best?
Many readers consider The Nightingale her best book. It’s a powerful World War II story about two sisters and the choices they must make to survive. However, The Great Alone and The Four Winds are also top favorites for fans of emotional, character-driven fiction.
Is there a sequel to Kristin Hannah’s On Mystic Lake?
No, On Mystic Lake does not have a sequel. It’s a standalone novel. If you prefer stories with a follow-up, check out the Firefly Lane series, which includes a sequel titled Fly Away.
What Netflix show is based on Kristin Hannah’s book?
The Netflix series Firefly Lane is based on her novel, which is the same name. It follows the friendship of two women over several decades. The show adapts both Firefly Lane and its sequel, Fly Away.