Cleaner

Q: "How many books are in the Cleaner series?"

"There are two books in the Cleaner series, published between 2006 and 2013."

Q: "What is the first book in the Cleaner series?"

"The first book in the Cleaner series is The Cleaner, published in 2006."

Q: "Do you need to read The Cleaner before Joe Victim?"

"Yes, Joe Victim is a direct sequel to The Cleaner and picks up the story of the same central character. Reading The Cleaner first is recommended for full context."

Reading order

#	Title	Published	Author	Buy on Amazon
1	The Cleaner	2006	Paul Cleave	Buy
2	Joe Victim	2013	Paul Cleave	Buy

The Cleaner series introduces Joe, a janitor at the Christchurch police station who appears simple and harmless to those around him. In reality, Joe is far from what he seems. The first book, The Cleaner (2006), established Paul Cleave’s reputation for dark, unreliable narrators and earned strong reviews in the crime fiction world.

Joe Victim (2013) continues the story, placing Joe in even more complicated circumstances. The series is notable for its pitch-black humor and willingness to let readers spend extended time inside the mind of a deeply disturbing protagonist.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many books are in the Cleaner series?

There are two books in the Cleaner series, published between 2006 and 2013.

What is the first book in the Cleaner series?

The first book in the Cleaner series is The Cleaner, published in 2006.

Do you need to read The Cleaner before Joe Victim?

Yes, Joe Victim is a direct sequel to The Cleaner and picks up the story of the same central character. Reading The Cleaner first is recommended for full context.

Reading order#

Frequently Asked Questions

Reading order