The Recommended Reading Order for Everneath
Brodi Ashton's Everneath series is a tightly woven modern twist on the classic Greek myth of Hades and Persephone. It follows Nikki Beckett, a teenager who returns to her Utah home after spending a century in the Everneath—a dark underworld where immortals drain human emotions. To get the full emotional impact of Nikki's story, her relationships with Jack and Cole, and the complex rules of the underworld, you should read the books in a specific order.
Here is the recommended reading path for the series:
- Everneath (Book 1, 2012) – The first novel introduces Nikki, her return to the mortal world with only six months before she is pulled back, and the choice she must make between her human boyfriend Jack and the immortal Cole.
- Neverfall (Book 1.5, 2012) – A companion novella told entirely from Cole’s perspective. It bridges the gap between the first and second novels, exploring Cole's motivations and backstory.
- Everbound (Book 2, 2013) – The second full-length novel shifts the action directly into the underworld as Nikki tries to rescue Jack from the depths of the Everneath.
- Evertrue (Book 3, 2014) – The final installment brings the trilogy to its high-stakes conclusion, resolving the love triangle and Nikki's fight for her mortality.
Publication Order vs. Chronological Order
Because the series consists of a single linear trilogy and one companion novella, publication order and chronological reading order are virtually identical. The only minor decision point is when to read the novella, Neverfall.
We highly recommend reading Neverfall after finishing the first book, Everneath, and before starting Everbound. While you could technically skip the novella and read the main trilogy straight through, doing so means you miss critical development for Cole. Since Everbound places a heavy focus on the underworld's mechanics and Cole's role in Nikki's quest, having his perspective beforehand makes the second book a much richer reading experience.
Understanding the Novella: Neverfall
In the main novels, readers experience the story through Nikki's first-person perspective. Neverfall breaks this pattern by putting readers inside Cole's mind. Cole is the immortal who originally lured Nikki into the Everneath, and he initially serves as the primary antagonist. However, this novella adds significant nuance to his character.
The story of Neverfall takes place during the months when Cole is searching for a way to rule the underworld, which leads him into conflict with a mysterious group known as the Delphinians. When he is imprisoned, he is forced to reflect on his feelings for Nikki, revealing that his obsession might run deeper than just wanting a queen. If you find yourself intrigued by the tension between Nikki and Cole, this novella is essential reading.
What to Know Before You Start
Before diving into the underworld, there are a few key details that will help you appreciate Brodi Ashton's world-building:
- The Mythology: While the primary inspiration is the myth of Hades and Persephone, Ashton also draws from the tragic tale of Orpheus and Eurydice. Keep an eye out for how these classical themes of rescue, memory, and looking back are woven into modern teen life.
- The Everneath and 'The Feed': In this universe, the Everneath is a limbo state. Immortals known as Everliving survive by 'feeding' on the emotions of humans. Nikki spent a century being fed upon, which left her emotionally drained. The transition back to feeling human emotions is one of the trilogy's most compelling themes.
- The Setting: The contrast between the eerie, timeless tunnels of the Everneath and the everyday high school environment in Utah provides a unique atmosphere that sets this series apart from other urban fantasies of its era.
Brodi Ashton's Other Works
If you finish Evertrue and find yourself wanting more of Brodi Ashton’s writing, you will have to look outside the Everneath universe, as the trilogy is fully complete. Ashton is widely known for her collaborative projects, most notably the Lady Janies series, which she co-wrote with authors Cynthia Hand and Jodi Meadows. These historical fantasy-comedies include My Lady Jane, My Plain Jane, and My Calamity Jane. While the tone of the Lady Janies is much lighter, more satirical, and comedic compared to the emotional angst of Everneath, they showcase Ashton's versatile storytelling and are highly recommended for young adult fiction fans.