Richard Paul Evans Books in Order

By / May 9, 2025

Last Updated on May 9, 2025

Richard Paul Evans, a #1 New York Times, USA Today, and Wall Street Journal bestselling author, is celebrated as the “King of Christmas fiction” for his emotionally resonant stories of love, faith, and family. Born October 11, 1962, in Salt Lake City, Utah, Evans graduated with a B.A. in English from the University of Utah (1984). Initially an advertising executive, he wrote The Christmas Box (1993) as a Christmas gift for his daughters, self-publishing it after failing to find a publisher. Its word-of-mouth success led to a $4.2 million deal with Simon & Schuster, making it the first book to hit #1 on the New York Times bestseller list for both hardcover and paperback simultaneously. With over 60 books, including 10 series, 16 standalones, five non-fiction works, and five children’s books, Evans has sold 35+ million copies in 22+ languages. His awards include the 1998 American Mothers Book Award, the 2005 Romantic Times Best Women’s Novel, and multiple honors for his Michael Vey series. This article lists all his books in publication order, organized by series, standalones, non-fiction, and children’s titles, with summaries, publication dates and reading guidance.

Why Read Richard Paul Evans’ Books?

Evans’ novels, often set during the holidays or in small-town America, weave Christian themes, family values, and redemption, earning praise for their “heartwarming” and “inspirational” tone (Booklist). His Christmas Box Trilogy and Noel Collection focus on love and loss, while The Walk and Michael Vey explore personal journeys and young adult sci-fi. Four novels—The Christmas Box (1995, CBS), Timepiece (1996, CBS), The Locket (1998, Hallmark), and A Perfect Day (2006, TNT)—became TV movies, starring talents like Maureen O’Hara and Rob Lowe. Most series, like The Walk or Michael Vey, require publication order for narrative continuity, while Noel Collection and standalones can be read flexibly. With Christmas in Bethel (November 2024) as his latest, Evans’ stories resonate with fans of Nicholas Sparks or Debbie Macomber. Note: In 2018, allegations of sexual harassment at FanX Convention were made against Evans, which he denied; no legal charges followed (Wikipedia).

Richard Paul Evans’ Books in Publication Order

As of May 10, 2025, Evans has published 60 books: 34 series novels, 16 standalones, five non-fiction, and five children’s books. Below is the complete list in publication order, grouped by series, standalones, non-fiction, and children’s titles, with no upcoming releases announced. Published by Simon & Schuster, Gallery Books, or Mercury Ink, books are available in hardcover ($17–22), paperback, e-book, audiobook (narrated by Richard Thomas, John Dossett, and others), and Kindle Unlimited.

The Christmas Box Trilogy (1993–1998)

Three novels tracing the Parkin family’s emotional journey, set in Utah. Read in order for narrative flow.

  1. The Christmas Box (November 1993, self-published; 1995, Simon & Schuster)
    Richard Parkin, a workaholic, moves into a widow’s mansion with his family, discovering an old Christmas box that reveals lessons about love and time. A 4.05/5 Goodreads hit, adapted into a 1995 CBS movie with Maureen O’Hara.
  2. Timepiece (October 1996, Simon & Schuster)
    Prequel to The Christmas Box, exploring David and MaryAnne Parkin’s love story and the origins of the Christmas box. A tender tale of hope, adapted into a 1996 CBS movie with Naomi Watts.
  3. The Letter (October 1997, Simon & Schuster)
    David and MaryAnne Parkin, strained by their daughter’s death, find a mysterious letter that restores their marriage. A poignant trilogy closer, with a 4.10/5 Goodreads rating.

The Locket Trilogy (1998–2000)

Three novels following Michael Keddington’s life, loosely connected by themes of love and regret. The Carousel is a sequel to The Locket. Read in order.

  1. The Locket (October 1998, Simon & Schuster)
    Michael Keddington, a nursing home worker, bonds with Esther, an elderly woman with regrets. Her locket reveals life lessons. Adapted into a 1998 Hallmark movie with Vanessa Redgrave.
  2. The Looking Glass (October 1999, Simon & Schuster)
    Hunter Bell, a former minister fleeing his past, saves Quaye McGandley, an Irish woman escaping abuse, in a blizzard. Their healing romance is a standalone sequel.
  3. The Carousel (October 2000, Simon & Schuster)
    Michael Keddington, now engaged, faces challenges balancing love and work at the nursing home. A direct sequel to The Locket, completing his arc.

Standalone Novels (1996–2024)

Sixteen standalone novels, mostly holiday-themed, can be read in any order. Listed in publication order.

  1. The First Gift of Christmas (October 1996, Gibbs Smith)
    A novella about a boy learning the true meaning of Christmas through a family crisis. A rare early work, also titled Christmas Every Day.
  2. The Last Promise (October 2002, Dutton)
    Eliana, an American in Italy, faces a choice between her son and a new love, Ross. A romantic drama with Italian charm.
  3. A Perfect Day (October 2003, Dutton)
    Robert Harlan, given 40 days to live, reevaluates his family ties. Adapted into a 2006 TNT movie with Rob Lowe.
  4. The Sunflower (October 2005, Simon & Schuster)
    Jessica, a doctor, and Paul, a former missionary, find love volunteering in Peru after heartbreak. A New York Times bestseller.
  5. Finding Noel (October 2006, Simon & Schuster)
    Mark Smart searches for Noel, a foster sister from his past, uncovering family secrets. A holiday tale of reunion.
  6. The Gift (October 2007, Simon & Schuster)
    Nathan Hurst, with a rare medical condition, uses his gift of healing to protect a family from danger. A suspenseful Christmas story.
  7. Grace (October 2008, Simon & Schuster)
    Eric, a runaway teen, hides Grace, another runaway, during a harsh winter, forming a bond. A tale of compassion.
  8. The Christmas List (October 2009, Simon & Schuster)
    James Kier, a ruthless businessman, reforms after seeing his own obituary. A modern Christmas Carol retelling.
  9. Promise Me (October 2010, Simon & Schuster)
    Beth Cardall’s life unravels until a mysterious man offers redemption. A time-travel romance with holiday vibes.
  10. Lost December (October 2011, Simon & Schuster)
    Luke Crisp, a prodigal son, rebuilds his life after squandering his inheritance. A festive redemption story.
  11. A Winter Dream (October 2012, Simon & Schuster)
    Joseph Jacobson, disowned by his family, rises in advertising while seeking forgiveness. A modern Joseph and the Coat retelling.
  12. If Only (May 2015, Simon & Schuster)
    Eliana faces a choice between her daughter and a new romance, echoing The Last Promise. A poignant love story.
  13. The Mistletoe Secret (November 2016, Simon & Schuster)
    Alex Bartlett searches for a mysterious blogger, finding love in Midway, Utah. Adapted into a 2019 Hallmark movie.
  14. The Christmas Promise (November 2021, Gallery Books)
    Richelle Bach’s twin sister’s secrets unravel her life, leading to love and healing. A holiday bestseller.
  15. A Christmas Memory (November 2022, Gallery Books)
    Richard, a lonely boy, bonds with a neighbor during a transformative Christmas. A nostalgic novella.
  16. Christmas in Bethel (November 2024, Gallery Books)
    Jacob Churcher, a romance author, rediscovers love and faith in Bethel, Maine. Evans’ latest, with a 4.2/5 Goodreads rating.

The Walk Series (2010–2014)

Five novels chronicling Alan Christoffersen’s cross-country walk from Seattle to Key West after losing everything. Read in order for continuity.

  1. The Walk (April 2010, Simon & Schuster)
    Alan Christoffersen, devastated by his wife’s death and business loss, walks to Key West, meeting people who restore his hope. A New York Times bestseller.
  2. Miles to Go (April 2011, Simon & Schuster)
    Alan, recovering from a stabbing, is taken in by a mysterious woman, continuing his journey with new lessons.
  3. The Road to Grace (May 2012, Simon & Schuster)
    Alan treks from South Dakota to St. Louis, facing a crisis that tests his faith. A “journey worth taking” (Booklist).
  4. A Step of Faith (May 2013, Simon & Schuster)
    Alan grapples with painful goodbyes, learning forgiveness as he nears Key West. A reflective installment.
  5. Walking on Water (May 2014, Simon & Schuster)
    Alan completes his walk, finding love and closure. A hopeful series finale, with a 4.25/5 Goodreads rating.

Michael Vey Series (2011–2024)

Ten young adult sci-fi novels about Michael Vey, a teen with electric powers, and the Electroclan fighting the Elgen. Read in order for plot progression.

  1. The Prisoner of Cell 25 (August 2011, Mercury Ink)
    Michael Vey, a teen with Tourette’s and electric powers, joins Taylor and Ostin to uncover the Elgen’s secrets. A 4.28/5 Goodreads hit.
  2. Rise of the Elgen (August 2012, Mercury Ink)
    Michael and the Electroclan rescue his mother from the Elgen’s Peruvian stronghold. A thrilling sequel.
  3. Battle of the Ampere (September 2013, Mercury Ink)
    The Electroclan battles the Elgen’s global takeover on a hijacked ship. Action-packed, with a 4.3/5 Goodreads rating.
  4. Hunt for Jade Dragon (September 2014, Mercury Ink)
    Michael seeks Jade Dragon, a child who can unlock Elgen secrets, in Taiwan. A high-stakes mission.
  5. Storm of Lightning (September 2015, Mercury Ink)
    The Electroclan faces betrayal while sabotaging the Elgen’s power grid. A tense installment.
  6. Fall of Hades (September 2016, Mercury Ink)
    Michael infiltrates the Elgen’s headquarters, risking everything. A fan favorite for its intensity.
  7. The Traitor (September 2017, Mercury Ink)
    A traitor within the Electroclan threatens their mission against the Elgen. A shocking twist-filled book.
  8. The Parasite (September 2018, Mercury Ink)
    Michael battles a new Elgen weapon, the Parasite, endangering his powers. A gripping continuation.
  9. The Final Spark (September 2019, Mercury Ink)
    Initially the series finale, Michael faces the Elgen’s ultimate plan. High stakes, later retconned for more books.
  10. The Chakana (September 2024, Mercury Ink)
    The Electroclan’s final mission to stop the Elgen involves a high-stakes rescue. The true series closer, with a 4.4/5 Goodreads rating.

Mistletoe Collection (2014–2017)

Three holiday romance novels, loosely connected by Midway, Utah. Can be read in any order, but publication order enhances character crossovers.

  1. The Mistletoe Promise (November 2014, Simon & Schuster)
    Elise Dutton and Nicholas Derr share a fake holiday romance to heal past wounds, finding real love. Adapted into a 2016 Hallmark movie.
  2. The Mistletoe Inn (November 2015, Simon & Schuster)
    Aspiring writer Kimberly Rossetti attends a writers’ retreat, sparking with fellow writer Zeke. Adapted into a 2017 Hallmark movie.
  3. The Mistletoe Secret (November 2016, Simon & Schuster)
    Listed as a standalone (#19) but part of the Mistletoe arc, included here for Midway setting.

The Broken Road Series (2017–2019)

Three novels about Charles James’ journey across Route 66 after faking his death. Read in order for continuity.

  1. The Broken Road (May 2017, Simon & Schuster)
    Charles James, a Chicago celebrity, fakes his death to walk Route 66, seeking redemption. A New York Times bestseller.
  2. The Forgotten Road (May 2018, Simon & Schuster)
    Charles faces his past sins while meeting strangers who reshape his purpose. A reflective sequel.
  3. The Road Home (May 2019, Simon & Schuster)
    Charles completes his journey, reconciling with his family and faith. A heartfelt finale.

The Noel Collection (2019–2024)

Four holiday novels, loosely connected by themes of loss and hope. Can be read in any order.

  1. The Noel Diary (October 2019, Simon & Schuster)
    Author Jacob Churcher searches for his mother’s past, finding love with Rachel. Adapted into a 2022 Netflix movie.
  2. The Noel Stranger (October 2019, Simon & Schuster)
    Maggie Walther, recovering from divorce, falls for a mysterious man with a secret. A holiday romance.
  3. Noel Street (October 2019, Simon & Schuster)
    Elle Sheen, a single mom, bonds with a Vietnam vet, William, finding healing in Noel, Utah. A tender tale.
  4. The Noel Letters (October 2020, Gallery Books)
    Noel Post returns home, uncovering family secrets and love through mysterious letters. A New York Times bestseller.

Non-Fiction (2001–2023)

Five non-fiction works on life, faith, and wealth. Can be read in any order.

  1. The Christmas Box Miracle (October 2001, Simon & Schuster)
    Evans recounts the journey of The Christmas Box and founding The Christmas Box House for abused children. A memoir.
  2. The Five Lessons a Millionaire Taught Me About Life and Wealth (January 2006, Fireside)
    Evans shares wealth-building principles learned from a mentor, applied to his life. A practical guide.
  3. The Five Lessons a Millionaire Taught Me for Women (May 2009, Fireside)
    A female-focused version of The Five Lessons, emphasizing financial empowerment. Informative and accessible.
  4. The Four Doors (October 2013, Simon & Schuster)
    Evans outlines four principles—belief, purpose, action, and destiny—for a fulfilling life. A motivational read.
  5. Sharing Too Much: Musings from an Unlikely Life (February 2023, Gallery Books)
    A collection of 59 essays on family, faith, and anecdotes, including a viral post on marriage. Evans’ most personal work.

Children’s Books (2002–2010)

Five children’s books, often holiday-themed, for young readers. Can be read in any order.

  1. The Christmas Candle (October 2002, Simon & Schuster)
    A boy learns the true meaning of Christmas through a magical candle. A festive picture book.
  2. The Light of Christmas (October 2002, Simon & Schuster)
    A boy’s act of kindness lights up his village’s Christmas. A heartwarming tale.
  3. The Spyglass (September 2003, Simon & Schuster)
    A king restores his kingdom with a magical spyglass showing hope. Illustrated by Jonathan Linton.
  4. The Tower (October 2006, Simon & Schuster)
    A young man learns humility after building a tower to reach the sky. A fable of perspective.
  5. The Dance (September 2010, Simon & Schuster)
    A girl’s love for dance teaches her father about joy. A touching picture book.

Miscellaneous Contributions (2022–2024)

Three non-fiction works with forewords or endorsements by Evans, not authored by him.

  1. Garbage Bag Girl (April 2022, Tellwell)
    Celeste Edmunds’ memoir of surviving abuse, with Evans’ foreword. A story of hope.
  2. The 7 Hacks for Happiness (September 2023, Tellwell)
    Nathan Glad’s guide to happiness with brittle bone disease, with Evans’ foreword. Inspirational.
  3. The Enlightened Passenger (October 2024, Tellwell)
    Vincent Tolman’s near-death experience, endorsed by Evans. A spiritual reflection.

Reading Richard Paul Evans’ Books: Tips and Guidance

  • Series Reading Order: Read The Walk (23–27), Michael Vey (28–37), Broken Road (41–43), and Locket Trilogy (4–6) in publication order for narrative continuity, as they follow single protagonists (The Walk, Broken Road) or plot arcs (Michael Vey). Christmas Box Trilogy (1–3) should be read in order for the Parkin family’s story. Noel Collection (44–47) and Mistletoe Collection (38–40) can be read in any order, though publication order enhances minor character crossovers (HookedToBooks.com).
  • Standalone Novels: The 16 standalones (7–22) are unconnected and can be read anytime. Start with The Christmas Promise (20) for a recent bestseller or The Sunflower (10) for a New York Times hit.
  • Non-Fiction and Children’s Books: Non-fiction (48–52) and children’s books (53–57) are standalone. The Christmas Box Miracle (48) complements the trilogy, while Sharing Too Much (52) offers personal insights. Children’s books suit young readers or holiday gifting.
  • Content: Novels are inspirational fiction with mild romance (1/5 spice per romance.io), Christian themes, and emotional depth, suitable for adults and teens. Michael Vey includes sci-fi violence (battles, captivity), appropriate for ages 12+. No graphic content. Themes emphasize love, redemption, and hope (Goodreads).
  • Starting Point: Try The Christmas Box (1) for its iconic holiday charm (8 million copies sold), The Walk (23) for a moving journey, or The Prisoner of Cell 25 (28) for young adult sci-fi. The Noel Diary (44) is a Netflix-adapted holiday favorite.
  • Adaptations: Watch The Christmas Box (1995, CBS), Timepiece (1996, CBS), The Locket (1998, Hallmark), A Perfect Day (2006, TNT), The Mistletoe Promise (2016, Hallmark), The Mistletoe Inn (2017, Hallmark), or The Noel Diary (2022, Netflix) after reading for fidelity to Evans’ vision.
  • Availability: Some early works (The First Gift of Christmas) are rare in print but available as e-books. Miscellaneous Contributions (58–60) are not Evans-authored but sold via his store (richardpaulevansstore.com).

Where to Find Richard Paul Evans’ Books

Available in hardcover, paperback, e-book, audiobook, and large print through:

  • Retailers: Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Bookshop.org, ThriftBooks, PangoBooks.
  • Libraries: Most stock The Christmas Box, The Walk, and Michael Vey series.
  • Digital Platforms: Kindle, Audible, Kobo, Libby, OverDrive. Most titles on Kindle Unlimited (Amazon.com).
  • Official Website: richardpaulevans.com for signed copies, book lists, and Christmas in Bethel promotions. Store at richardpaulevansstore.com for exclusive titles.
  • Secondhand: ThriftBooks, PangoBooks for used copies ($3–10). Free U.S. shipping on orders over $15 (ThriftBooks).

Follow Evans on X (@richardpevans), Instagram (@richardpevans), or his newsletter for book tours (post-COVID limited) and giveaways.

Why Richard Paul Evans’ Books Resonate

Evans’ 60 books, with The Christmas Box earning 4.05/5 from 53,000+ Goodreads ratings and Michael Vey averaging 4.28/5, captivate for their “emotionally charged” storytelling (HookedToBooks.com). The Walk series (74,000+ ratings) and The Noel Diary (Netflix hit) are fan favorites for their hope-filled narratives. Readers on X praise his “uplifting” Christian themes, though some critique formulaic plots in later works (Goodreads). Living in Salt Lake City with his wife, Keri, five children, and two grandchildren, Evans founded The Christmas Box House International, housing 16,000+ abused children (richardpaulevans.com). His 36 New York Times bestsellers, humanitarian work, and TV adaptations cement his legacy as a storyteller who “warms the heart” (Newsweek).

Final Thoughts

Richard Paul Evans’ bibliography, from The Christmas Box (1993) to Christmas in Bethel (2024), offers a rich tapestry of holiday classics, personal odysseys, and young adult adventures. Start with The Christmas Box for its historic charm, The Walk for a transformative journey, or The Prisoner of Cell 25 for sci-fi thrills. Read The Walk, Michael Vey, Broken Road, and Locket Trilogy in order for narrative depth, while Noel and Mistletoe collections offer flexible holiday reads. Standalones and non-fiction provide quick, uplifting escapes. With no new books announced, now’s the time to explore Evans’ “breathtaking” world (HookedToBooks.com). His stories of faith, love, and redemption will leave you inspired.

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