Robert Harris Books in Chronological Order: A Complete Guide
Robert Harris has established himself as one of the most respected authors in historical fiction and political thrillers. Below is a comprehensive chronological list of every Robert Harris book published, complete with links to help you start your reading journey.
Complete Robert Harris Bibliography (In Order of Publication)
- Fatherland (1992)
Alternative history thriller set in a 1964 Nazi Germany that won World War II - Enigma (1995)
World War II thriller about breaking the German Enigma code - Archangel (1998)
Contemporary thriller about the discovery of Stalin’s secret legacy - Pompeii (2003)
Historical novel set during the eruption of Mount Vesuvius - Imperium (2006)
First book in the Cicero trilogy, ancient Roman political thriller - The Ghost (2007)
Contemporary political thriller about a ghost writer - Lustrum (2009)
(Also published as “Conspirata”) Second book in the Cicero trilogy - The Fear Index (2011)
Thriller about artificial intelligence in the financial markets - An Officer and a Spy (2013)
Historical thriller about the Dreyfus Affair in France - Dictator (2015)
Final book in the Cicero trilogy - Conclave (2016)
Contemporary thriller about the election of a new Pope - Munich (2017)
Historical thriller set during the 1938 Munich Agreement - V2 (2020)
World War II thriller about the German V2 rocket program - Act of Oblivion (2022)
Historical thriller about the hunting of the regicides after the English Civil War
Non-Fiction Works
- A Higher Form of Killing (1982)
With Jeremy Paxman – History of chemical and biological warfare - Gotcha! The Government, the Media and the Falklands Crisis (1986)
Analysis of media coverage during the Falklands War - Good and Faithful Servant (1986)
Biography of Bernard Ingham, Margaret Thatcher’s press secretary - Selling Hitler (1990)
Story of the Hitler Diaries hoax
Reading Order Recommendations
While most of Robert Harris’s books are standalone novels that can be read in any order, there are a few considerations:
The Cicero Trilogy
Should be read in order:
World War II Interest
If you’re particularly interested in World War II, consider this order:
Contemporary Thrillers
For modern political intrigue, start with:
Each book demonstrates Harris’s meticulous research and ability to transform historical events into compelling narratives. Whether you’re interested in ancient Rome, World War II, or contemporary political intrigue, this chronological list helps you navigate his impressive body of work.
Featured Review: Act of Oblivion (2022)
Robert Harris’s most recent novel, Act of Oblivion, showcases his mastery of historical fiction in a gripping tale of pursuit, betrayal, and justice set in the aftermath of the English Civil War.
Plot Overview
The story follows Richard Nayler, a determined officer of the Privy Council, as he pursues two fugitive regicides—Edward Whalley and his son-in-law William Goffe—who were among the men who signed King Charles I’s death warrant. After Charles II’s restoration to the throne in 1660, these men flee to the American colonies, beginning an epic cat-and-mouse chase across the Atlantic.
Why It Stands Out
- Historical Detail: Harris expertly weaves historical facts with narrative fiction, bringing 17th-century England and New England vividly to life
- Character Development: The psychological complexity of both hunter and hunted provides depth beyond a simple pursuit narrative
- Contemporary Relevance: Themes of political extremism, religious conviction, and the price of loyalty resonate with modern readers
- Pacing: Despite covering events spanning many years, the narrative maintains constant tension
- Research: Harris’s meticulous attention to historical accuracy enriches the story without overwhelming it
Verdict
“Act of Oblivion” represents some of Harris’s finest work, combining the political intrigue he’s known for with deep historical research and compelling character studies. The book serves as both a thrilling manhunt narrative and a thoughtful exploration of justice, loyalty, and the price of political conviction. For readers new to Harris’s work, it’s an excellent entry point to his style and demonstrates why he remains at the forefront of historical fiction.
Rating: 4.5/5 stars