Unravel the Mystery: Mary Higgins Clark Books in Order

Mary Higgins Clark, hailed as the “Queen of Suspense,” captivated readers worldwide with her gripping narratives and unforgettable characters. Over a career spanning decades, her books consistently climbed bestseller lists and defined the thriller genre. Below, we’ll explore Mary Higgins Clark books in order, her major novels, collaborations, and her legacy.

Early Works

Mary Higgins Clark’s career began with stories exploring human emotions intertwined with suspenseful twists. Her early works established her unique voice and gained the attention of readers and critics alike.

Where Are the Children? (1975)

Clark’s breakthrough novel, Where Are the Children?, tells the chilling story of a woman whose dark past catches up with her when her children go missing. It became a cornerstone of her career, showcasing her ability to create suspense while portraying flawed yet resilient characters. This book has been highly influential in shaping modern mystery writing.

A Stranger Is Watching (1977)

In this gripping novel, a young boy is kidnapped, and a mother’s life spirals into chaos. Blending crime and psychological tension, it demonstrated Clark’s growing confidence as a storyteller. Critics praised the vivid pacing, cementing it as one of her must-read books from her early years.

The Cradle Will Fall (1980)

This novel is a master class in suspense. It follows prosecutor Katie DeMaio as she uncovers horrifying medical crimes. Themes of betrayal and justice weave through the story, earning it critical acclaim and securing Clark’s place as a household name.

Find detailed lists of her works at Mystery Sequels.

Major Novels and Series

Clark’s bibliography is packed with milestone novels. Some titles have stayed with readers over the years for their compelling narratives and unforgettable characters.

Weep No More, My Lady (1987)

This international bestseller weaves a tale of love, betrayal, and murder. When Elizabeth Lange sets out to uncover the truth about her sister’s death, the story unfolds with intricacies that keep readers guessing. This novel remains a staple for thriller enthusiasts.

The Lottery Winner (1994)

Shifting into a lighter tone, this collection of intertwined mysteries follows Alvirah and Willy Meehan, lottery winners turned amateur detectives. Their humorous and heartwarming escapades stand out amidst Clark’s darker thrillers.

More about this can be discovered on Fantastic Fiction.

All Through the Night (1998)

In this festive mystery, Clark adds a holiday twist to her storytelling. The book centres on a missing child, a stolen heirloom, and the enduring Christmas spirit. It’s a charming deviation from her usual fare and a highlight of her later career.

Collaborations and Later Works

Mary Higgins Clark not only created solo masterpieces but also worked with co-authors to bring exciting new stories to life.

Deck the Halls (2000)

Collaborating with her daughter Carol Higgins Clark, this novel combines mystery with holiday cheer. Packed with family warmth, the duo’s unique styles complemented one another perfectly, leaving readers entertained.

I’ve Got You Under My Skin (2014)

This book launched Clark’s renowned Under Suspicion series. A television producer investigates unsolved murders, blending television drama and crime-solving elements. It resonated with modern audiences intrigued by cold-case mysteries.

For more on her collaborative novels, visit Cozy Mystery.

The Cinderella Murder (2014)

Partnering with Alafair Burke, Clark co-authored this gripping follow-up in the Under Suspicion series. With polished storytelling, the book explored a decade-old murder mystery tied to Hollywood’s underbelly.

Mary Higgins Clark Books Adapted to Film and TV

Mary Higgins Clark’s captivating mysteries and suspenseful narratives have made her works prime candidates for film and television adaptations. Here is a list of Mary Higgins Clark books that have been brought to the screen:

Where Are the Children? (1975)

• TV Movie (1986): This adaptation, directed by Bruce Malmuth, stars Jill Clayburgh and Max Gail. The film captures the chilling suspense of Clark’s novel, as a woman’s past comes back to haunt her when her children go missing.

A Stranger Is Watching (1977)

• TV Movie (1982): Directed by Sean S. Cunningham, this thriller stars Kate Mulgrew, Rip Torn, and James Naughton. The film follows the harrowing story of a man who witnesses a murder and becomes entangled in a web of deception and danger.

The Cradle Will Fall (1980)

• TV Movie (1983): This adaptation, directed by John Llewellyn Moxey, stars Lauren Hutton and Ben Murphy. The film delves into the medical mystery and suspense of Clark’s novel, as a prosecutor uncovers a sinister plot involving a series of unexplained deaths.

Stillwatch (1984)

• TV Movie (1987): Directed by Rodney Charters, this thriller stars Lynda Carter and Angie Dickinson. The film follows the story of a television reporter who becomes embroiled in a dangerous investigation after witnessing a murder.

A Cry in the Night (1982)

• TV Movie (1992): This adaptation, directed by Robert Michael Lewis, stars Carol Higgins Clark and Perry King. The film captures the suspense and drama of Clark’s novel, as a woman’s life is turned upside down by a series of mysterious events.

Remember Me (1994)

• TV Movie (1995): Directed by Michael Switzer, this thriller stars Kelly McGillis and Peter MacNeill. The film explores the psychological suspense and family secrets of Clark’s novel, as a woman’s past resurfaces with deadly consequences.

Let Me Call You Sweetheart (1995)

• TV Movie (1997): This adaptation, directed by Bill Corcoran, stars Meredith Baxter and Michael Gross. The film delves into the mystery and suspense of Clark’s novel, as a woman’s search for her missing husband leads her down a dangerous path.

Moonlight Becomes You (1996)

• TV Movie (1998): Directed by Bill Corcoran, this thriller stars Jaclyn Smith and James Brolin. The film captures the suspense and intrigue of Clark’s novel, as a woman’s investigation into her mother’s death uncovers a web of secrets and lies.

Pretend You Don’t See Her (1997)

• TV Movie (2002): This adaptation, directed by René Bonnière, stars Emma Samms and Hannes Jaenicke. The film follows the story of a woman who witnesses a murder and becomes the target of a ruthless killer.

You Belong to Me (1998)

• TV Movie (2001): Directed by Paolo Barzman, this thriller stars Leslie Stefanson and Daniel Cosgrove. The film explores the psychological suspense and family secrets of Clark’s novel, as a woman’s past comes back to haunt her.

We’ll Meet Again (1999)

• TV Movie (2002): This adaptation, directed by Michael Storey, stars Laura Leighton and Brandy Ledford. The film captures the suspense and drama of Clark’s novel, as a woman’s search for her missing sister leads her down a dangerous path.

Before I Say Good-Bye (2000)

• TV Movie (2003): Directed by Michael Storey, this thriller stars Sean Young and Patty Duke. The film delves into the mystery and suspense of Clark’s novel, as a woman’s investigation into her friend’s death uncovers a web of secrets and lies.

Loves Music, Loves to Dance (1991)

• TV Movie (2001): This adaptation, directed by Mario Azzopardi, stars Patsy Kensit and Jeffrey Nordling. The film follows the story of a woman who becomes entangled in a dangerous investigation after responding to a personal ad.

I’ll Be Seeing You (1993)

• TV Movie (2004): Directed by Bill Corcoran, this thriller stars Alison Eastwood and Bo Derek. The film captures the suspense and drama of Clark’s novel, as a woman’s search for her missing husband leads her down a dangerous path.

I Heard That Song Before (2007)

• TV Movie (2012): This adaptation, directed by Bill Corcoran, stars Elizabeth Rice and John Bolger. The film delves into the mystery and suspense of Clark’s novel, as a woman’s investigation into her husband’s death uncovers a web of secrets and lies.

Mary Higgins Clark’s works continue to inspire and captivate audiences across various mediums, showcasing her enduring impact on literature and popular culture.

Complete Bibliography of Mary Higgins Clark

Mary Higgins Clark is a prolific and beloved author known for her suspenseful and thrilling novels. Below is a comprehensive list of her works, including novels, short story collections, and non-fiction books.

Novels

1. Aspire to the Heavens (1968)
2. Where Are the Children? (1975)
3. A Stranger Is Watching (1977)
4. The Cradle Will Fall (1980)
5. A Cry in the Night (1982)
6. Stillwatch (1984)
7. Weep No More, My Lady (1987)
8. While My Pretty One Sleeps (1989)
9. Loves Music, Loves to Dance (1991)
10. All Around the Town (1992)
11. I’ll Be Seeing You (1993)
12. Remember Me (1994)
13. Let Me Call You Sweetheart (1995)
14. Silent Night (1995)
15. Moonlight Becomes You (1996)
16. Pretend You Don’t See Her (1997)
17. You Belong to Me (1998)
18. All Through the Night (1998)
19. We’ll Meet Again (1999)
20. Before I Say Good-Bye (2000)
21. On the Street Where You Live (2001)
22. Daddy’s Little Girl (2002)
23. The Second Time Around (2003)
24. Nighttime Is My Time (2004)
25. No Place Like Home (2005)
26. Two Little Girls in Blue (2006)
27. I Heard That Song Before (2007)
28. Ghost Ship: A Cape Light Novel (2007) (with Carol Higgins Clark)
29. Santa Cruise: A Holiday Mystery at Sea (2006) (with Carol Higgins Clark)
30. Dashing Through the Snow: A Holiday Mystery (2008) (with Carol Higgins Clark)
31. Just Take My Heart (2009)
32. The Shadow of Your Smile (2010)
33. I’ll Walk Alone (2011)
34. The Lost Years (2012)
35. Daddy’s Gone A Hunting (2013)
36. I’ve Got You Under My Skin (2014)
37. The Cinderella Murder (2014) (with Alafair Burke)
38. All Dressed in White (2015) (with Alafair Burke)
39. The Melody Lingers On (2015)
40. As Time Goes By (2016)
41. The Sleeping Beauty Killer (2016) (with Alafair Burke)
42. Every Breath You Take (2017) (with Alafair Burke)
43. All By Myself, Alone (2017)
44. You Don’t Own Me (2018) (with Alafair Burke)
45. I’ve Got My Eyes on You (2018)
46. Kiss the Girls and Make Them Cry (2019)
47. Piece of My Heart (2020) (with Alafair Burke)

Short Story Collections

1. The Anastasia Syndrome and Other Stories (1989)
2. My Gal Sunday: Henry and Sunday Stories (1996) (with Carol Higgins Clark)
3. Deck the Halls (2000) (with Carol Higgins Clark)
4. The Lottery Winner: Alvirah and Willy Stories (2006)
5. The Lost Years (2012)

Non-Fiction

1. Kitchen Privileges: A Memoir (2002)

Mary Higgins Clark’s extensive bibliography showcases her mastery of suspense and her ability to captivate readers with intricate plots and relatable characters. Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to her work, this comprehensive list will guide you through her impressive body of work.

Conclusion

Mary Higgins Clark’s knack for suspense and character depth transformed her into one of the best-selling authors of her time. Her stories continue to captivate readers, ensuring her legacy as the “Queen of Suspense” endures. Whether you’re a long-time fan or new to her work, exploring her novels in order is the best way to appreciate the evolution of her unparalleled storytelling.

For further reading about her life and contribution, visit The New York Times.