Last Updated on May 7, 2025
Charles Martin, a New York Times and USA Today bestselling author, has crafted a compelling body of work that blends faith-based fiction with themes of love, loss, redemption, and hope. Born in 1969 in Jacksonville, Florida, Martin earned a B.A. in English from Florida State University, an M.A. in Journalism, and a Ph.D. in Communication from Regent University. After a brief stint selling insurance, he pursued writing, debuting with The Dead Don’t Dance in 2004 after 86 rejections. His 17 novels, including the acclaimed The Mountain Between Us (adapted into a 2017 film starring Kate Winslet and Idris Elba), and six non-fiction works have been translated into 35+ languages, earning awards like the Christy and Christian Book Awards. This article lists all of Martin’s books in publication order, with summaries, publication dates and reading guidance.
Why Read Charles Martin’s Books?
Martin’s novels, often set in the American South, feature cinematic storytelling, strong characters, and faith-based themes, drawing comparisons to Nicholas Sparks and John Grisham. His Awakening duology and Murphy Shepherd series explore grief and heroism, while standalone novels tackle personal struggles and redemption. His non-fiction, rooted in Christian faith, offers spiritual insights. Fans praise his emotional depth and vivid prose, though some note slower pacing or heavy religious tones in later works. Reading in publication order is recommended for series to follow character arcs, but standalones can be enjoyed independently.
Charles Martin’s Books in Publication Order
Below is the complete list of Martin’s 23 books: 17 fiction novels (two series, 11 standalones) and six non-fiction works, in publication order, which aligns with chronological order for series. All fiction is published by Thomas Nelson or HarperCollins unless noted; non-fiction is with Thomas Nelson, Tyndale, or BroadStreet.
Awakening Series (2004–2006)
This duology follows Dylan and Maggie Styles facing tragedy in South Carolina. Read in order for emotional continuity.
- The Dead Don’t Dance (May 2004)
Dylan and Maggie Styles, expecting their first child, face heartbreak when their baby is stillborn, and Maggie falls into a coma. Dylan, teaching English to pay medical bills, finds solace in his students and faith. A moving debut about love and loss, praised for its emotional pull. - Maggie (September 2006)
Maggie awakens from her coma, grappling with grief over their lost child. Dylan supports her healing, but adoption looms as they seek a new future. This sequel explores resilience and hope, completing the Styles’ journey.
Standalone Fiction Novels (2005–2023)
Martin’s standalones, often set in Florida or the South, explore diverse characters and themes. Can be read in any order.
- Wrapped in Rain (March 2005)
Tucker Mason, raised by housekeeper Miss Ella Rain on a Southern estate, confronts his abusive father’s legacy. When his brother Mutt escapes a mental hospital and an old girlfriend arrives with a son, Tucker faces his past. A tale of forgiveness and family. - When Crickets Cry (April 2006)
In a Georgia town, Annie, a girl with a heart scar, sells lemonade. A boat restorer, hiding his past as a surgeon, knows her condition. Their bond forces him to confront his guilt and faith. A 2007 Christian Book Award winner, lauded for its poignancy. - Chasing Fireflies (February 2007)
Chase, a foster child, and Unc, a mysterious man, connect with reporter Jack under Miss Ella Rain’s care. Their search for Chase’s origins reveals family secrets. A 2008 Christy Award winner, it’s a heartfelt story of identity. - Where the River Ends (July 2008)
Chris, an artist, and Abbie, dying of cancer, embark on a final canoe trip down the St. Mary’s River to fulfill her bucket list. Pursued by her father and a storm, their love defies fate. A bittersweet romance about living fully. - The Mountain Between Us (June 2010)
Dr. Ben Payne and Ashley Knox, stranded after a plane crash in Utah’s High Uintas Wilderness, must survive winter and injuries. Ben, a surgeon, and Ashley, a bride-to-be, forge a bond that sparks romance. Adapted into a 2017 film, it’s Martin’s most famous work. - Thunder and Rain (April 2012)
Texas Ranger Tyler Steele, a modern cowboy, rescues Hope, a single mother, and her son from danger. Their connection heals old wounds, but Tyler’s past threatens their future. A gritty tale of redemption. - Unwritten (May 2013)
Father Gabriel, a priest, and Katie, an actress hiding from fame, are aided by Sunday, a recluse, after a boat explosion. Their journey from the Everglades to France uncovers secrets and second chances. A reflective story of purpose. - A Life Intercepted (September 2014)
Matthew “Rocket” Rising, a disgraced NFL star, seeks redemption by coaching a boy who could save his wife, Audrey, from prison. A story of sacrifice and forgiveness, set against football’s backdrop. - Water from My Heart (May 2015)
Charlie Finn, a Harvard-educated smuggler, faces consequences after a deal goes wrong in Nicaragua. His path to redemption involves helping a family he wronged, testing his heart. A gripping tale of guilt and grace. - Long Way Gone (October 2016)
Cooper O’Connor, a prodigal musician, flees his preacher father’s expectations. Years later, a fire and a mentor’s wisdom lead him back to Nashville, where music and love heal his past. A 2017 Christy Award winner for Book of the Year. - Send Down the Rain (May 2018)
Joseph, a Vietnam vet, returns to Cape Fear, North Carolina, to bury his brother Bobby. Helping Allie, a diner owner, and her children, Joseph confronts his war scars and a childhood tragedy. A story of healing and hope. - The Last Exchange (October 2023)
MacThomas Pockets, a Scottish bodyguard, protects JoJo, a starlet, in Hollywood. When JoJo’s dreams of motherhood unravel, Pockets risks everything to save her. A tale of loyalty and sacrifice, blending action and emotion.
Murphy Shepherd Series (2020–2025)
This series follows Murphy Shepherd, a rescuer of trafficking victims, in a thrilling, faith-driven narrative. Read in order for plot progression.
- The Water Keeper (May 2020)
Murphy Shepherd, a loner tending a Florida island church, saves Summer, a woman whose daughter is missing. His mission plunges him into a trafficking ring, blending action and faith. A gripping series opener. - The Letter Keeper (June 2021)
Murphy continues his fight against traffickers, protecting a girl named Casey. As his past and enemies close in, his mentor Bones aids his mission. A high-stakes sequel with emotional depth. - The Record Keeper (July 2022)
Murphy and Bones face a trafficking network’s mastermind. As Murphy’s team unravels, his faith and resilience are tested. A tense, heartfelt continuation. - The Keeper (April 1, 2025)
Murphy’s latest mission involves a new rescue, with details still emerging. Expected to conclude or expand the series, it promises Martin’s signature intensity. Pre-order available.
Non-Fiction: Religious Books (2019–2024)
Martin’s Christian non-fiction explores faith, Jesus’ teachings, and personal growth. Can be read in any order.
- What If It’s True?: A Storyteller’s Journey with Jesus (January 2019, Thomas Nelson)
Martin examines Jesus’ life and teachings, urging readers to embrace faith’s transformative power. A reflective guide for Christians. - They Turned the World Upside Down: A Storyteller’s Journey with Those Who Dared to Follow Jesus (January 2021, Thomas Nelson)
Focusing on Jesus’ disciples, Martin explores how their faith reshaped history, encouraging modern believers to follow suit. - If the Tomb Is Empty: Why the Resurrection Means Anything Is Possible (February 2022, FaithWords, with Joby Martin)
Co-authored with Joby Martin, this book argues the resurrection’s truth makes all things possible, blending theology and storytelling. - If the Tomb Is Empty Study Guide: Why the Resurrection Means Anything Is Possible (February 2022, HarperChristian Resources, with Joby Martin)
A companion to If the Tomb Is Empty, offering discussion questions and reflections for group study. - Son of Man: Retelling the Stories of Jesus (February 2023, Thomas Nelson)
Martin retells Jesus’ parables and miracles, emphasizing their relevance today. A narrative-driven spiritual exploration. - Run Over By the Grace Train: How the Unstoppable Love of God Transforms Everything (September 10, 2024, Thomas Nelson)
Martin reflects on God’s grace as a transformative force, using personal and biblical stories. His latest non-fiction, praised for accessibility.
Reading Charles Martin’s Books: Tips and Guidance
- Series Order: Read the Awakening duology (The Dead Don’t Dance, Maggie) in order for Dylan and Maggie’s complete arc. The Murphy Shepherd series (The Water Keeper, The Letter Keeper, The Record Keeper, The Keeper) should also be read sequentially for Murphy’s evolving mission and backstory.
- Standalone Novels: These can be read in any order, though publication order reflects Martin’s stylistic growth. Favorites like The Mountain Between Us or When Crickets Cry are great starting points.
- Non-Fiction: Religious books are standalone, ideal for Christian readers or those exploring faith. Read based on interest, e.g., What If It’s True? for Jesus’ teachings or River Road for Martin’s memoir (not listed, as it’s unverified in sources).
- Content: Fiction blends romance, drama, and faith, with mild violence (e.g., plane crashes, trafficking) and no explicit content. Non-fiction is overtly Christian, suitable for spiritual readers. Appropriate for adults and mature teens.
- Starting Point: Try The Mountain Between Us for a gripping survival romance or When Crickets Cry for emotional depth. For series, start with The Dead Don’t Dance or The Water Keeper.
- Adaptations: The Mountain Between Us (2017 film) differs from the book, adding action and altering the ending. Read the novel for its introspective focus.
Where to Find Charles Martin’s Books
Martin’s books are available in hardcover, paperback, e-book, audiobook (narrated by Adam Verner and others), and large print through:
- Retailers: Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Bookshop.org, ThriftBooks, Alibris.
- Libraries: Most stock The Mountain Between Us and When Crickets Cry.
- Digital Platforms: Kindle, Audible, Kobo, Libro.fm, Kindle Unlimited (select titles).
- Official Website: charlesmartinbooks.com for book details, newsletter, and blog.
- Secondhand: ThriftBooks, PangoBooks for used copies.
Follow Martin on X (
@storiedcareer) or Instagram (@charles_martin_books) for updates on The Keeper and events.
Why Charles Martin’s Books Resonate
Martin’s 23 books, with over 60,000 Goodreads ratings for The Mountain Between Us, blend faith, Southern settings, and universal struggles, appealing to readers seeking uplifting stories. His prose, described as “cinematic” by Publishers Weekly, creates vivid worlds, from Florida’s rivers to Utah’s wilderness. Fans on X and Goodreads praise his “heart-wrenching” plots and “memorable characters,” though some find later novels preachy or slow to start. Martin’s life—raising three sons with wife Christy, bow hunting, and earning a Tae Kwon Do black belt—infuses his stories with authenticity. His persistence, overcoming 86 rejections, inspires aspiring writers.
Final Thoughts
Charles Martin’s bibliography, from The Dead Don’t Dance (2004) to Run Over By the Grace Train (2024), offers a rich tapestry of faith-based fiction and non-fiction. Start with The Mountain Between Us for a thrilling romance, When Crickets Cry for emotional depth, or The Water Keeper for action-packed suspense. Read Awakening and Murphy Shepherd series in order for cohesive arcs, and explore standalones or non-fiction based on interest. With The Keeper arriving April 2025, Martin’s stories of hope and redemption continue to captivate. Dive into his Southern landscapes and heartfelt narratives for an unforgettable read.