If you’re a fan of gripping young adult mysteries, heartfelt romantic comedies, or pulse-pounding thrillers, Ashley Elston’s books are a must-read. Hailing from Louisiana, this former wedding photographer has crafted a captivating collection of stories that blend suspense, romance, and relatable characters. Whether you’re new to her work or a longtime fan, this guide to Ashley Elston’s books in order will help you navigate her literary world. From her suspenseful “Rules” series to her bestselling adult debut, First Lie Wins, we’ve got the complete list, including publication dates, to ensure you read her books in the perfect order.
Why Read Ashley Elston’s Books?
Ashley Elston’s storytelling shines through her ability to weave intricate plots with emotional depth. Her novels often explore themes of identity, trust, and resilience, set against vivid Louisiana backdrops. With her background in photography, Elston has a knack for painting vivid scenes that pull readers into the heart of the story. Her books have been translated into 23 languages, and her adult debut, First Lie Wins, became a #1 New York Times bestseller and a Reese’s Book Club pick. Whether you love young adult fiction or thrilling mysteries, Elston’s books offer something for everyone.
Below, we’ve organized Ashley Elston’s books in publication order and included a brief overview of each. We’ve also noted whether they’re part of a series or standalone novels to make your reading journey seamless.
Ashley Elston Books in Publication Order
1. The Rules for Disappearing (2013)
- Series: The Rules Series, Book 1
- Publisher: Disney-Hyperion
- ISBN: 978-1423169260
- Genre: Young Adult Mystery/Thriller
- Summary: Meet Meg, a teen thrust into the Witness Protection Program. After assuming six different identities across multiple states, she lands in rural Louisiana as Megan Rose Jones. Tired of running and hiding, Meg vows this will be her last identity. Determined to uncover why her family is in hiding, she takes matters into her own hands, unraveling dangerous secrets. This gripping debut was a finalist for the International Thriller Writers Award for Best Young Adult Novel.
2. The Rules for Breaking (2014)
- Series: The Rules Series, Book 2
- Publisher: Disney-Hyperion
- ISBN: 978-1423169277
- Genre: Young Adult Mystery/Thriller
- Summary: The thrilling sequel to The Rules for Disappearing. Anna Boyd (formerly Meg) is still under Witness Protection, but the stakes are higher. Hunted by a dangerous drug cartel, Anna must protect her sister and boyfriend while confronting a mysterious enemy. This fast-paced novel is packed with action and twists, perfect for fans of high-stakes YA thrillers.
3. This Is Our Story (2016)
- Series: Standalone
- Publisher: Little, Brown Books for Young Readers
- ISBN: 978-1484734124
- Genre: Young Adult Mystery
- Summary: A hunting trip turns deadly when one of five boys doesn’t return alive. The survivors refuse to confess who fired the fatal shot, and the evidence is murky. Kate, an intern at the DA’s office, digs into the case, uncovering shocking truths tied to powerful families. This gripping whodunit keeps readers guessing until the final page.
4. The Lying Woods (2018)
- Series: Standalone
- Publisher: Little, Brown Books for Young Readers
- ISBN: 978-1368015912
- Genre: Young Adult Mystery
- Summary: Owen Foster’s privileged life unravels when his father’s embezzlement is exposed. Forced to leave his elite boarding school and return to Lake Cane, Louisiana, Owen faces hostility from locals. A secret note from his father holds the key to a mystery, but confronting the truth may cost Owen everything. This emotional and suspenseful story explores family and redemption.
5. 10 Blind Dates (2019)
- Series: Standalone
- Publisher: Disney-Hyperion
- ISBN: 978-1368045254
- Genre: Young Adult Romantic Comedy
- Summary: Sophie’s holiday plans with her boyfriend are derailed when he asks for a break. Her quirky extended family steps in, setting her up on 10 blind dates over Christmas. This heartwarming rom-com is filled with humor, romance, and Southern charm, making it a delightful departure from Elston’s usual thrillers.
6. 10 Truths and a Dare (2021)
- Series: Standalone (Companion to 10 Blind Dates)
- Publisher: Disney-Hyperion
- ISBN: 978-1368062381
- Genre: Young Adult Romantic Comedy
- Summary: Olivia is ready for Senior Week and her future at LSU, but a missing P.E. form threatens her graduation. While volunteering at a golf tournament to fix the issue, she must dodge her overprotective family and a tracking app on her phone. This lighthearted companion to 10 Blind Dates is packed with laughs and coming-of-age moments.
7. First Lie Wins (2024)
- Series: Standalone
- Publisher: Pamela Dorman Books
- ISBN: 978-0593492918
- Genre: Adult Thriller
- Summary: Elston’s adult debut follows Evie Porter, a con artist with a knack for deception. When a new job raises red flags, Evie must outsmart her mysterious employer to survive. Packed with twists and morally gray characters, this New York Times bestseller and Reese’s Book Club pick is a masterclass in suspense.
Chronological Reading Order for Ashley Elston’s Series
For fans of series, Ashley Elston’s Rules series should be read in publication order, as the events of The Rules for Breaking directly follow The Rules for Disappearing. Here’s the recommended order:
- The Rules for Disappearing (2013)
- The Rules for Breaking (2014)
Her standalone novels (This Is Our Story, The Lying Woods, 10 Blind Dates, 10 Truths and a Dare, and First Lie Wins) can be read in any order, as they are not connected.
Why Read Ashley Elston’s Books in Order?
Reading Ashley Elston’s books in publication order enhances your experience by following her growth as a writer. Starting with The Rules for Disappearing, you’ll see her early mastery of suspense, inspired by her love for Sidney Sheldon’s twist-filled stories. Her later works, like 10 Blind Dates and First Lie Wins, showcase her versatility in blending humor and high-stakes drama. For the Rules series, reading in order is essential for plot continuity, as Anna’s journey builds across both books.
Tips for Enjoying Ashley Elston’s Books
- For Mystery Lovers: Start with The Rules for Disappearing or This Is Our Story for edge-of-your-seat suspense.
- For Rom-Com Fans: Dive into 10 Blind Dates for a feel-good read with Southern flair.
- For Adult Thriller Readers: First Lie Wins is a must-read for its clever twists and complex characters.
- Join the Community: Connect with fans on platforms like Goodreads or Reddit’s r/BooksAndFilms to discuss Elston’s books and share theories.
- Stay Updated: Subscribe to Ashley Elston’s newsletter at ashleyelston.com for news on upcoming releases.
Fun Facts About Ashley Elston
- Before writing, Elston was a wedding photographer for over a decade in Shreveport, Louisiana.
- She’s a certified landscape horticulturist, adding a unique layer to her creative perspective.
- Her love for small-town Louisiana life inspires the settings in her novels, especially the Rules series.
- First Lie Wins marked her triumphant shift to adult fiction, earning widespread acclaim.
Where to Find Ashley Elston’s Books
You can purchase Ashley Elston’s books at major retailers like Amazon, Barnes & Noble, or PangoBooks. Many are available in hardcover, paperback, eBook, and audiobook formats. Check your local library for free access, or explore used bookstores for deals.
Conclusion
Ashley Elston’s books offer a thrilling mix of mystery, romance, and coming-of-age stories that captivate readers of all ages. Whether you’re diving into the high-stakes world of The Rules for Disappearing or laughing through 10 Blind Dates, her novels deliver unforgettable characters and plots. Use this guide to read Ashley Elston’s books in order and embark on a literary journey filled with twists, heart, and Southern charm. Which book will you start with? Let us know in the comments!
