The Recommended Reading Path
If you are ready to jump into the post-apocalyptic world of Apex City, your reading path is completely straightforward. The series was written as a continuous, linear trilogy, and you should read the books in their exact publication order. Because each novel picks up where the previous one leaves off, attempting to read them out of order will spoil major plot points and character developments.
Here is the recommended reading sequence:
- Hunter (2015)
- Elite (2016)
- Apex (2017)
What to Know Before You Start
Before you dive in, it helps to understand the unique genre blend Mercedes Lackey created. Best known for her sprawling high-fantasy Valdemar universe, Lackey crafted the Hunter series as a distinct crossover into young adult dystopian urban fantasy. It is set 250 years after the "Diseray"—a massive cataclysmic event that tore open rifts to the Otherworld, releasing mythological beasts and nightmarish creatures into our world.
In this universe, humanity is protected by "Hunters"—specially gifted individuals who can summon and bond with magical, telepathic hounds to fight off the Othersiders. However, because this is a dystopian setting, there is a catch: the battles fought by the Hunters are broadcasted on live television. Public relations, ratings, citizen adoration, and government propaganda play just as large a role in a Hunter's survival as their combat prowess. Think of it as a thrilling mix of The Hunger Games, Red Queen, and classic monster-hunting fantasy.
The Hunter Trilogy in Detail
1. Hunter (2015)
We are introduced to Joyeaux "Joy" Charmand, a sixteen-year-old Hunter who has spent her life in a quiet mountain monastery training with her pack of magical Hounds. When she is called to protect the citizens of Apex City, she expects to face monsters. Instead, she is thrust into the glittering, high-pressure world of televised celebrity. Joy quickly realizes that in the city, she is expected to prioritize public relations and sponsors. As she adjusts to her new life, she discovers that a conspiracy is brewing behind the city's protective barriers, and the threat of the Othersiders might be closer than anyone admits.
2. Elite (2016)
With her reputation growing, Joy is promoted to the ranks of the Elite Hunters. The stakes rise significantly as she faces increasingly dangerous Othersiders that seem to be coordinates-targeting the city's weak points. Meanwhile, the political maneuvers of Apex City's ruling class become harder to navigate. Joy has to decide whom she can trust within her own organization when it becomes clear there is a spy in their midst. The bond between Joy and her Hounds is tested as they deal with both physical battles and internal betrayals.
3. Apex (2017)
The series reaches its action-packed climax in the final volume. The fragile peace of Apex City is shattered as the Otherworld forces launch a full-scale assault. Joy must lead her allies in a desperate war for survival against both the literal monsters outside the walls and the corrupt politicians inside who would rather maintain power than save their people. This final entry wraps up Joy's character arc and resolves the central mysteries of the Diseray and the true nature of the Apex government.
Is the Series Complete?
Yes, the Hunter series is a completed trilogy. While Mercedes Lackey has mentioned in fan circles that she initially had ideas to expand the universe and continue the storyline, the publisher, Disney-Hyperion, did not option further books. Because of this, the series concludes with Apex. Fortunately, the third book provides a solid resolution to the main plotlines, meaning readers are not left on an unresolved cliffhanger.
Practical Advice for Readers
Can the books be read as standalones? No. The trilogy forms a single, continuous narrative arc. You will need to start with the first book to understand the magic system, the political state of Apex City, and Joy's personal relationships.
Are there spin-offs or short stories? No. Unlike Lackey's vast Valdemar setting, there are no companion short story collections, novellas, or co-authored spin-offs set in the Hunter universe. Everything you need is contained within the three core novels.
Who is this series best for? This is a great transition series for readers who enjoy YA dystopian survival stories but want a magic system that features mythical creatures and animal companions. The pacing starts somewhat slow in the first book to allow for world-building, but quickly picks up speed as the political intrigue takes center stage in books two and three.