Dive into the spellbinding world of the Existence Trilogy, where love tangles with the supernatural and Death himself becomes a heartthrob! Written by Abbi Glines, this young adult paranormal romance series follows Pagan Moore, a teenager who can see souls and finds herself smitten with the ultimate bad boy: Death. With its mix of cosmic drama, heartfelt romance, and a touch of Southern charm, this trilogy is a hidden gem for fans of otherworldly love stories.
From its gripping cliffhangers to its exploration of destiny versus free will, the Existence Trilogy captivates readers with a unique blend of the everyday and the eternal. Let’s explore how this series came to life, its core books and themes, and why it continues to enchant its devoted fans.
How the Existence Trilogy Began
Abbi Glines, a New York Times bestselling author known for her addictive romance novels, ventured into paranormal territory with the Existence Trilogy, her only series in this genre. Inspired by her love for ghost stories and Southern settings, Glines crafted a tale that blends the mystical with the mundane. Published between 2011 and 2012, the trilogy emerged during the peak of YA paranormal romance, carving a niche with its bold premise of a girl falling for Death.
Glines’ knack for writing passionate, character-driven stories shines through, drawing from her Alabama roots to ground the supernatural in a relatable high school world. The series’ inception reflects her desire to explore love’s power to defy even the forces of fate, making it a standout in her diverse bibliography.
The Heart of the Existence Trilogy
The trilogy comprises three main novels—Existence, Predestined, and Ceaseless—plus a novella, Leif, which delves into a key secondary character. In Existence, we meet Pagan Moore, a 17-year-old who’s always seen souls but ignores them to live a normal life. That plan unravels when she meets Dank Walker, a smoldering figure who’s not just a soul—he’s Death incarnate. Their romance sparks a cosmic tug-of-war, with heaven and hell vying for Pagan’s soul.
Predestined deepens the stakes as Pagan learns her love for Dank defies her predestined path, challenging fate itself. Ceaseless wraps up the saga with emotional twists, while Leif’s novella offers a glimpse into the perspective of Leif, a soulless quarterback caught in the supernatural fray. The series weaves themes of destiny, free will, and sacrificial love, set in a Southern town where the paranormal feels hauntingly real.
Glines’ writing style is fast-paced and emotionally charged, with cliffhangers that keep readers hooked. The alternating first-person perspectives in later books add depth, while the romance—steamy yet ‘cool’ by YA standards—drives the narrative. Fans praise the trilogy’s ability to balance ethereal conflicts with relatable teen struggles, making it both escapist and heartfelt.
Why the Existence Trilogy Resonates
Though not as widely known as Glines’ contemporary series like Rosemary Beach, the Existence Trilogy holds a special place in the hearts of paranormal romance fans. Its unique premise—Death as a romantic lead—sets it apart from vampire and werewolf tales, offering a fresh take on supernatural love. Readers on Goodreads and book blogs rave about its addictive quality, with many devouring the series in days, drawn to Dank’s brooding allure and Pagan’s fierce spirit.
The trilogy’s exploration of choice versus fate resonates with young adults navigating their own paths, while its Southern Gothic vibe adds a timeless appeal. Its cult following continues to grow, fueled by Glines’ loyal fanbase and the series’ availability on platforms like Amazon and ThriftBooks. For those craving a quick, emotional read, the Existence Trilogy delivers.
- Publication Years: 2011–2012
- Number of Books: 3 novels, 1 novella
- Genre: Young Adult Paranormal Romance
- Setting: Southern United States
Ready to fall for Death? Grab Existence and step into the Existence Trilogy’s intoxicating blend of romance and the supernatural!