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series Reading Order

Altered Books in Order

6 Books
2013 – 2015 Published
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Reading order
01
Forged
Forged
2013
Amazon
02
Altered
2013
Amazon
03
Betrayed
2014
Amazon
04
Erased
2014
Amazon
05
Reborn
2014
Amazon
06
Played
Played
2015
Amazon

The Recommended Reading Order

For the best reading experience, it is highly recommended to follow the hybrid chronological and publication order. While Forged is technically a prequel novella (#0.5), reading it first can spoil or lessen some of the mystery in the main novel Altered. Most readers suggest starting with Altered, and then reading the novellas in their designated spots between the main books to get extra character insights without spoiling the core plot twists.

Recommended Order:

  1. Altered (Novel #1) – The perfect starting point, introducing Anna, the four genetically altered boys, and the escape from the Branch.
  2. Forged (Novella #0.5) – A prequel that focuses on Dani O'Brien's entry into the Branch. Read this after book one for better context.
  3. Betrayed (Novella #1.5) – Follows Trev after he leaves the main group and returns to the watchful eye of the Branch.
  4. Erased (Novel #2) – The second main book, ramping up the stakes as the group hides and uncovers new secrets.
  5. Reborn (Novel #3) – The final full-length novel in the main trilogy, focusing heavily on Nick's journey with a new heroine, Elizabeth.
  6. Played (Novella #3.5) – A companion novella focusing on Chloe and her quest for revenge against the Branch, wrapping up loose threads after the trilogy.

Publication Order vs. Chronological Order

If you prefer to read strictly in the order the books were released, the publication order is almost identical to the chronological path, with the minor exception of the prequel novella:

  • Forged (2013)
  • Altered (2013)
  • Betrayed (2014)
  • Erased (2014)
  • Reborn (2014)
  • Played (2015)

Reading Forged first is a valid chronological choice, but starting with the main novel Altered remains the preferred path for newcomers to keep the central mystery intact.

Spin-Offs and Universe Details

The Altered series is a complete, self-contained story. There are no additional spin-off series, co-authored novels, or sequel series set in the same universe. Once you finish the final novella, Played, the story of the Branch and the altered teens is fully wrapped up.

Frequently Asked

QWhat is the recommended starting book for the Altered series?

While Forged is chronologically first, you should start with the first novel, Altered. Starting here preserves the mystery of the genetically altered boys and the Branch.

QHow many main novels and novellas are in the series?

The series consists of three main novels (Altered, Erased, and Reborn) and three companion novellas (Forged, Betrayed, and Played).

QWhere does the novella Played fit in the reading order?

The novella Played takes place after the events of the final novel, Reborn. It is best read last (as book #3.5) to wrap up the overall story.

QIs the Altered series complete?

Yes, Jennifer Rush's Altered series is a completed trilogy with its accompanying short stories, and the author has not announced plans for any further books in this universe.

QWho is the main focus of the novel Reborn?

Unlike the first two books which center on Anna, Reborn shifts its primary perspective and focus to Nick, following his journey alongside a new character named Elizabeth.

QWho published the Altered series?

The series is published by Little, Brown Books for Young Readers, an imprint of Hachette Book Group.