If you’re ready to dive into a world of magic, steamy romance, and cutthroat rivalries, the Zodiac Academy series by Caroline Peckham and Susanne Valenti is calling your name! This BookTok sensation has taken the fantasy romance world by storm, blending elemental magic, star-crossed twins, and heart-pounding drama. But with multiple books, novellas, and companion series, figuring out the Zodiac Academy books in order can feel like navigating a celestial maze. Don’t worry—you’re in the right place! This guide will walk you through the complete reading order, share tips for new readers, and highlight why this series is a must-read for fans of young adult and fantasy romance.
Caroline Peckham and Susanne Valenti, known as the Twisted Sisters, have crafted a dark, addictive world that’s sold over 7 million copies and earned a spot as a #1 Wall Street Journal and Amazon bestseller. Whether you’re new to Solaria or a seasoned fan, this guide will ensure you read the Zodiac Academy series list in the best order for maximum enjoyment. Let’s get started!
Overview of the Zodiac Academy Series
The Zodiac Academy series is a dark, bully romance set in the magical world of Solaria, where your star sign defines your destiny. The story follows twins Tory and Darcy Vega, who discover they’re Fae princesses with powerful elemental magic. Enrolled at Zodiac Academy, they face ruthless celestial heirs, dangerous creatures, and a battle for their rightful throne. Think Harry Potter meets The Vampire Diaries with a spicy, enemies-to-lovers twist!
This series is packed with themes of power struggles, coming-of-age journeys, and slow-burn romance that keeps readers hooked. Its complex world-building and character crossovers with related series like Ruthless Boys of the Zodiac make it a favorite for fans of Sarah J. Maas and Leigh Bardugo. With 11 books, including novellas, and a massive online following, the Zodiac Academy series list is a must for anyone craving magical drama.
Zodiac Academy Books in Order
To fully immerse yourself in the Zodiac Academy reading order, it’s best to follow the publication order, which ensures you catch all the Easter eggs and character crossovers without spoilers. Below is the complete list of main books and novellas as of July 2025, with brief, spoiler-free summaries and publication dates. Note that novellas are optional but add rich context, especially for character backstories.
- Origins of an Academy Bully (Novella 0.5, July 2019)
This prequel novella introduces key characters, including the celestial heirs, and sets the stage for their rivalries at Zodiac Academy. It’s a great starting point for extra context but can be read after Book 1. - The Awakening (Book 1, August 2019)
Twins Tory and Darcy Vega learn they’re Fae princesses and enroll at Zodiac Academy, where they must master their elemental magic while facing hostility from the powerful celestial heirs. A gripping introduction to the series’ magical world. Available on Audible and Amazon. - The Awakening As Told By The Boys (Novella 1.5, December 2019)
A retelling of The Awakening from the perspectives of Orion and the celestial heirs, offering deeper insight into their motivations. Best read after Book 6 (Fated Throne) to avoid minor spoilers. - Ruthless Fae (Book 2, August 2019)
The Vega twins face escalating threats as they navigate Zodiac Academy’s cutthroat politics and battle to prove their strength. The stakes rise with intense action and growing rivalries. Available on Audible. - The Reckoning (Book 3, November 2019)
As senior students torment freshmen during The Reckoning, Tory and Darcy must harness their powers to secure their place at the academy. Emotional stakes and magical challenges deepen the story. - Shadow Princess (Book 4, April 2020)
The twins’ magical abilities grow, but so do the dangers as they uncover dark secrets about their heritage. This installment ramps up the romance and political intrigue. - Cursed Fates (Book 5, May 2020)
Tory and Darcy face heart-wrenching choices as their enemies close in. This book is a turning point, with major character development and emotional intensity. - The Big A.S.S. Party (Novella 5.5, August 2020)
A lighthearted novella featuring a chaotic party in Solaria, offering fun character moments. Optional but recommended after Book 5 for context. - Seth on the Moon (Novella 5.6, March 2021)
A short, optional bonus chapter focusing on Seth, best read after Book 6 for continuity. It’s referenced in later books, so it adds fun details for fans. - Fated Throne (Book 6, December 2020)
The battle for the throne intensifies as the twins confront betrayals and powerful foes. This book delivers high-stakes action and pivotal plot twists. - Heartless Sky (Book 7, December 2021)
New truths unravel, and the twins’ powers face greater threats. Trust is tested, and alliances shift in this emotionally charged installment. - Sorrow and Starlight (Book 8, December 2022)
The sisters tackle their toughest challenges yet, with the fate of Solaria hanging in the balance. Expect intense battles and jaw-dropping revelations. - Beyond The Veil (Novella 8.5, June 2023)
A bridging novella set during Book 8, exploring events beyond the Veil (the land of the dead). Recommended for tandem reading with Sorrow and Starlight to avoid spoilers. - Restless Stars (Book 9, April 2023)
The epic finale sees the Vega twins face the consequences of their actions as they fight for their destiny. A thrilling conclusion with fierce action and emotional closure. - Live And Let Lionel (Novella, June 2023)
A bonus novella celebrating the series’ end, diving into Lionel’s past and motives. Packed with 100,000 words of extra content, it’s a treat for fans.
Note: As of July 2025, no new books have been announced, but check Caroline Peckham’s website or Susanne Valenti’s website for updates. The series is complete with Restless Stars, but the authors have hinted at a new series in the same world.
Reading Tips and FAQs
To make your Zodiac Academy reading order journey smooth and spoiler-free, here are some tips and answers to common questions.
Should You Read the Novellas?
The novellas (Origins of an Academy Bully, The Big A.S.S. Party, Seth on the Moon, Beyond The Veil, and Live And Let Lionel) are optional but highly recommended. They add depth to characters and world-building, especially for fans who love the celestial heirs or want more Solaria lore. The Awakening As Told By The Boys is best read after Fated Throne to avoid spoilers, while others can be read in publication order.
What’s the Best Way to Read the Series?
Start with The Awakening for the main storyline, as it sets up the world and characters. If you want extra context, read Origins of an Academy Bully first. For a richer experience, consider reading the Ruthless Boys of the Zodiac prequel series after Book 3 (The Reckoning), as characters from that series appear in later books. Publication order is ideal for catching crossovers, but chronological order (starting with Ruthless Boys) works too.
Is the Series Complete?
Yes, the Zodiac Academy series concluded with Restless Stars (Book 9) in April 2023. The authors have mentioned a new series set in a different kingdom within the same world, but no release dates are confirmed as of July 2025.
How Does It Connect to Other Series?
The Zodiac Academy series is set five years after Ruthless Boys of the Zodiac and five years before Darkmore Penitentiary. While Zodiac Academy can be read standalone, reading Ruthless Boys after Book 3 adds context for crossover characters. Darkmore Penitentiary is best read last to avoid spoilers.
Why You’ll Love the Zodiac Academy Series
The Zodiac Academy series stands out for its addictive mix of dark romance, complex characters, and a magical world governed by astrology. The slow-burn, enemies-to-lovers arcs will have you swooning, while the high-stakes battles and shocking twists keep you turning pages. Fans of Sarah J. Maas’s A Court of Thorns and Roses or Leigh Bardugo’s Six of Crows will feel right at home with the Vega twins’ fiery spirit and the celestial heirs’ brooding charm.
What makes this series truly special is its world-building—Solaria feels alive with its elemental magic, dangerous creatures, and political intrigue. The authors’ knack for crafting strong, flawed heroines like Tory and Darcy, paired with morally gray love interests, creates a rollercoaster of emotions. Personally, I’m obsessed with the banter and chemistry between characters—it’s like a magical soap opera you can’t put down!
Conclusion
Navigating the Zodiac Academy books series in order is key to enjoying this epic fantasy romance series to the fullest. From the magical chaos of The Awakening to the heart-stopping finale in Restless Stars, Tory and Darcy’s journey is a wild ride you won’t want to miss. Whether you’re drawn to the spicy romance, intricate world-building, or intense rivalries, this series has something for every fantasy fan.
Ready to step into Solaria? Grab your copy of The Awakening today and start your adventure! Which Zodiac Academy book is your favorite? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
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