Reading order
How to Read Zodiac Academy
For a first read, start with The Awakening and follow the main Zodiac Academy books in order. Save the novellas and alternate POV for when you already know you want more of Solaria.
Main reading order
Side books and where they fit
| Book | Type | Best time to read |
|---|---|---|
| Origins of an Academy Bully novella | Prequel side story | After The Awakening, or later if you want to stay with the main momentum. |
| The Awakening as Told by the Boys alternate POV | Book one retelling | After The Awakening. It is not the best first exposure to the story. |
| The Big A.S.S. Party novella recap | Book 5.5 side material | After Cursed Fates and before Fated Throne if you want the extra party detour. |
| Beyond the Veil novella | Late-series side material | Near the end of the main sequence, once the late-series stakes make sense. |
Solaria universe context
The authors describe Zodiac Academy as set five years after Ruthless Boys of the Zodiac and five years before Darkmore Penitentiary. Each series can be read alone, but there is character crossover and extra texture for readers who want the full Solaria world.
Reader FAQ
Do I need to read Ruthless Boys first?
No. Start with The Awakening if Zodiac Academy is the series you came for. Read Ruthless Boys first only if you already know you want chronological Solaria context.
Can I skip the novellas?
For a first read, yes. The main books are the cleanest route. The novellas and alternate POV are best treated as bonus material for readers who want more character context.
Is this a cozy magic-school series?
No. The official author pages frame Zodiac Academy as dark bully M/F paranormal romance for 18+ readers, with a cutthroat academy and harsh power games.
Where should I go after finishing?
Use the Zodiac Academy hub for next-read paths, or move to Dark Romantasy Books and Fae Romantasy for broader discovery.