The Recommended Reading Order
For the best experience, you should read the series in its original publication order. Because the narrative is completely linear, the chronological order matches the publication sequence perfectly. Start with Survival to meet Dan and see how the group first comes together, and follow the journey straight through to the latest threat.
- Survival (2016) – The collapse of society and the introduction of Dan as he forms a survival group.
- Humanity (2016) – The challenges of expanding the community and dealing with external threats.
- Society (2016) – The group attempts to establish a self-sustaining settlement.
- Hope (2016) – New alliances and the struggle to maintain peace in a lawless UK.
- Sanctuary (2016) – The community works to establish a safe haven.
- Rebellion (2017) – The original storyline reaches a major climax as the survivors confront tyrannical forces.
- Andorra (2018) (The Leah Chronicles #1) – The focus shifts to Leah as she travels to the Pyrenees.
- Piracy (2019) (The Leah Chronicles #2) – Leah and the group must defend against threats coming from the sea.
- Home (2020) – Dan and the crew return to the UK to face a recurring enemy.
- Warlord (2025) – Sanctuary's peace is threatened by new arrivals, forcing Dan to deal with internal conflict.
The Leah Chronicles Subseries
Books 7 and 8 (Andorra and Piracy) are collectively known as The Leah Chronicles. This two-book spin-off shifts the narrative focus from Dan to Leah, showcasing her survival path and how she passes on her knowledge to the next generation. While they focus on a different protagonist and location, they are essential to the overall storyline and lead directly into Book 9 (Home).
Are There Co-authored Books or Spin-offs?
Unlike some other post-apocalyptic universes, the entire After It Happened series is written solely by Devon C. Ford. He has not co-authored any entries in this universe or allowed other authors to write official spin-offs, though he has collaborated on completely separate projects like The Fall.
The Audiobook Experience
If you prefer listening, the audiobooks published by Podium Publishing and narrated by the legendary R.C. Bray are highly recommended by fans. Bray's performances are frequently praised for bringing the gritty atmosphere of the post-apocalyptic UK to life.