Order of Cliff Janeway Book Series

The Cliff Janeway series by John Dunning follows the intriguing exploits of an ex-cop turned rare book dealer, Cliff Janeway, as he navigates the world of antiquarian books, literary mysteries, and crime. Set against the backdrop of Denver, Colorado, Janeway embodies a unique blend of detective skills and a passion for the written word, making him an engaging protagonist for bibliophiles and mystery lovers alike.

From his deep knowledge of the book trade to his relentless pursuit of justice, Janeway often finds himself drawn into complex cases that revolve around rare and valuable texts. Each installment in the series presents a new challenge, intertwining elements of history, culture, and intrigue, while also shedding light on the fascinating world of book collecting.

Dunning's vivid storytelling and rich character development invite readers to immerse themselves in Janeway's adventures, where the thrill of the chase marries the art of bibliophily. The series is a captivating blend of mystery, suspense, and literary appreciation, appealing to anyone who cherishes the printed word and the stories behind them.

Order of Cliff Janeway Series

# Title Year Rating Book Link
1Booked to Die
By: John Dunning
19924.3Amazon.com
2The Bookman's Wake
By: John Dunning
1992Amazon.com
3The Bookman's Promise
By: John Dunning
2004Amazon.com
4The Sign of the Book
By: John Dunning
2005Amazon.com
5The Bookwoman's Last Fling
By: John Dunning
2006Amazon.com

Cliff Janeway Series Books Description

The "Cliff Janeway" series, written by John Dunning, follows the character Cliff Janeway, a former cop turned rare book dealer in Denver, Colorado. The series is known for its unique blend of mystery, bibliophilia, and secrets connected to the world of rare books. Here is an overview of the key books in the series:

  1. "Booked to Die" (1992): The first book introduces Cliff Janeway, who becomes embroiled in a murder investigation linked to the world of rare books. After a bibliophile is killed over a valuable book, Janeway uses his detective skills to uncover the truth. The story explores his passion for books and the lengths to which some will go to possess them.

  2. "The Bookman's Wake" (1995): In this installment, Janeway finds himself investigating the disappearance of an old friend and fellow rare book dealer. The case becomes complicated as Janeway uncovers a web of betrayal that leads him into the depths of the rare book world. The narrative delves deeper into Janeway's character and his relationships, as well as the dark side of collecting.

  3. "The Bookman's Promise" (1996): Janeway's quest for a rare collection of books takes a sinister turn when he becomes a prime suspect in a murder case. He must clear his name while navigating through the complexities of book collecting and the motivations of those involved. This book enhances the series' themes of loyalty and the pursuit of knowledge.

  4. "The Bookman's Tale" (1999): This novel follows Janeway as he uncovers a mysterious manuscript that could alter the academic landscape of bibliophiles. The investigation leads him to confront hidden dangers and enemies from his past. The book plays with the idea of authenticity and the value placed on rare texts.

  5. "The Bookman's Garden" (2003): Janeway finds himself wrapped up in a case connected to a garden of rare and unusual plants, which intersects with his book knowledge. The narrative bridges the world of botany and antiquarian manuscripts, showcasing Dunning's broad literary reach.

  6. "The Bookman's Last Promise" (2005): In the final installment, Janeway contemplates his future while dealing with ominous connections to his past. This book serves as a culmination of Janeway's journey, tying up loose ends and providing resolution to lingering plot threads.

Throughout the series, Dunning weaves intricate plots, rich character development, and a deep appreciation for literature, making the "Cliff Janeway" series a beloved choice for fans of mystery and bibliophilia. Each book brings Janeway's character to life while exploring different facets of the rare book community.

Who are the main characters of Cliff Janeway Series

The "Cliff Janeway" series by John Dunning features a main character named Cliff Janeway, who is a former police detective turned rare book dealer. Here are some of the key aspects of his character:

  1. Cliff Janeway: The protagonist, Cliff is a dedicated and intelligent former cop with a deep appreciation for literature and mystery. His background in law enforcement often informs his approach to solving the puzzles he encounters in his new profession as a bookseller. He is portrayed as resourceful, driven by a passion for books and a commitment to uncovering the truth, whether it pertains to rare books or the mysteries surrounding them.

  2. Supporting Characters: Throughout the series, there are various supporting characters that play crucial roles, including fellow book dealers, collectors, and literary figures. Each of these characters often brings their own quirks, motivations, and backgrounds, enriching the narrative and contributing to the complex world of rare books and the mysteries associated with them.

  3. Antagonists: Each book in the series typically introduces antagonists that challenge Cliff, whether through criminal activity related to valuable books or personal vendettas. These characters often highlight the darker sides of the rare book trade and the lengths some individuals will go to achieve their goals.

Overall, the series combines elements of mystery, crime, and the love of literature, centering around Cliff Janeway's unique perspective as both a detective and a book lover. The interplay between his past and present roles adds depth to his character and drives the narrative forward.

Interesting facts about Cliff Janeway Series

The "Cliff Janeway" series, written by John Dunning, is a collection of mystery novels centered around the character Cliff Janeway, a bookseller and former police officer. Here are some interesting facts about the series:

  1. Character Background: Cliff Janeway, the protagonist, is a unique blend of literary expertise and investigative skill, combining his passion for books with his knack for solving mysteries.

  2. Setting: The series is primarily set in Colorado, with Janeway's adventures often taking place in and around Denver, which adds a regional flair to the stories and makes the setting almost a character in its own right.

  3. Book Collecting: The series intricately weaves the world of rare book collecting into its narratives. Janeway's job as a bookseller allows Dunning to explore themes related to the art and appreciation of literature, including book restoration, historical significance, and the life of book dealers.

  4. Mystery Genre: The series is notable for blending traditional mystery elements with the literary world, thereby appealing to both mystery lovers and bibliophiles. It often contains references to real books and authors.

  5. Critical Acclaim: Dunning's writing has received praise for its intelligent plotting and rich character development. The series has garnered a devoted following and is often recommended by fans of mystery fiction.

  6. Books in the Series: The first book, "Booked to Die," was published in 1992 and serves as an introduction to Janeway. Subsequent novels include "The Bookman's Wake" (1996) and "The Bookman's Last Gift" (2003).

  7. Meticulous Research: Dunning's background in journalism is evident in his meticulous attention to detail, particularly concerning the book industry and the processes of book dealing and collecting.

  8. Themes of Redemption and Identity: Throughout the series, Janeway grapples with his identity and past, exploring themes of redemption and the personal connections we have with books.

  9. Standalone vs. Series: While Janeway's character develops throughout the series, each book can be read as a standalone mystery, which makes them accessible to new readers.

  10. Author’s Passion for Books: John Dunning himself is a devoted bibliophile, and his love for books and the world of publishing arguably permeates the series, making it a tribute to the literary arts.

The "Cliff Janeway" series offers readers a captivating fusion of mystery and literary culture, appealing to those who appreciate both thrilling storytelling and a love for books.