The Recommended Reading Order
For the best experience, readers should follow the publication order. The series traces Cindy's growth from a local desert baker to the Seraphim of Faerie. Reading the books out of order will spoil key romantic developments and major character arcs.
- How (Not) to Kiss a Toad (2012) — The first novel that introduces Cindy Eller, her Tucson bakery, and her toad-kissing curse.
- How (Not) to Kiss a Prince (2013) — Cindy faces two weddings, a bakery to run, and a mysterious betrothed.
- How (Not) to Play With Magic (2013) — A prequel novella (Book 0.5) that can be read first or as a flashback after Book 2.
- How (Not) to Kiss a Beast (2013) — The third main novel in the series.
- How (Not) to Kiss a Ghost (2013) — A slightly darker turn where Cindy searches for her missing sisters.
- How (Not) to Kiss a Gargoyle (2013) — The fifth main novel in the series.
- How (Not) to Love a Hero (2014) — Cindy balances her role as Seraphine against cosmic threats.
- How (Not) to Kiss a Were Bear (2014) — Introduces shifting shifter problems.
- First Kisses, Near Misses (2014) — A collection of short stories expanding on side characters and backstories.
- How (Not) to Spook a Spectre (2015) — The next installment in Cindy's magical journey.
- How (Not) to Soothe a Siren (2016) — Pushes the boundaries of the magical Tucson landscape.
- How (Not) to Amuse a Muse (2016) — Another whimsical dessert-and-magic entry.
- How to Free a Firebird (2018) — The final novel of the core saga (sometimes listed as How (Not) to Free a Firebird).
Spin-Offs: Goldie Locke and the Were Bears
If you enjoy the shapeshifting comedy and cozy romance of the Cindy Eller universe, Elizabeth A. Reeves has a direct spin-off series following Goldie Locke, a supernatural environmental lawyer. It is recommended to read this series after finishing How (Not) to Kiss a Were Bear.
- Baehrly Beginning (Book 0.5)
- Baehrly Breathing (Book 1)
- Baehrly Bitten (Book 2)
- Baehrly Alive (Book 3)
- Baehrly Breaking (Book 4)