The Recommended Reading Order for Icons
If you're ready to dive into the dystopian sci-fi world created by Margaret Stohl, the path forward is straightforward. Unlike sprawling fantasy universes with multiple spin-offs, prequels, and companion novels, the Icons series is a tightly constructed, character-driven story told over just two main books.
Here is the recommended (and only) way to read the series:
- Icons (2013)
- Idols (2014)
Because the narrative is chronological and the plot of Idols builds directly on the cliffhangers and revelations of the first book, you must read them in order. Skipping the first book would leave you completely lost regarding the alien invasion, the unique nature of the characters' powers, and the complex relationships that form the emotional backbone of the series.
The Complete Icons Book List in Publication Order
Here is a quick look at the publication details for the duology:
- Icons (May 2013) – The first novel introduces Doloria, the dystopian landscape of a conquered Earth, and the mysterious alien House Lords.
- Idols (July 2014) – The sequel takes the resistance global, shifting the setting to South Asia as the teens search for the fifth Icon Child.
Both books were published by Little, Brown Books for Young Readers, an imprint of the Hachette Book Group.
What to Know Before You Start
Before you open the first page, it helps to understand the unique lore of Margaret Stohl’s universe. The series is set on a near-future Earth that has been decimated by "The Day"—a sudden and catastrophic alien invasion. The invaders, known as the House Lords, brought with them massive, heart-stopping obelisks called Icons. These alien structures pulse with an electromagnetic power that can stop human hearts, forcing survivors to live under their strict control.
Instead of traditional weapons or physical mutations, the resistance in this world lies in human emotion. Dol, Ro, Lucas, and Tima are "Icon Children"—teenagers born on "The Day" who possess extraordinary, emotion-based abilities that make them immune to the Icons' deadly pulses.
Here is a breakdown of the core characters and the primary emotions that fuel their power:
- Doloria "Dol" Grant (Sorrow): Raised in the relative safety of the countryside, Dol has a heightened sense of empathy. Her power is fueled by deep sadness, allowing her to influence others and resist alien control.
- Ro (Rage): Dol’s hot-headed childhood friend and protector, whose raw anger translates into physical strength and volatile energy.
- Lucas (Love): The charismatic son of a high-ranking human collaborator, Lucas possesses the power of love, allowing him to persuade and attract others magnetically.
- Tima (Fear): A quiet, guarded girl who has suffered at the hands of the alien Embassy, Tima's power is rooted in fear, which she can project onto others.
Diving Into the Books
Icons (Book 1)
The story begins in the ruins of what was once California. Dol lives in hiding, trying to keep her emotions under control to avoid drawing the attention of the alien Lords. However, when her village is attacked, she and Ro are captured and brought directly into the heart of the enemy's operations: the Embassy in Los Angeles (now colloquially referred to as "the Hole").
It is here that they meet Lucas and Tima, discovering that they are not alone. Under the watchful eye of Ambassador Amare, a complex web of romance, political intrigue, and rebellion begins to spin. Stohl utilizes a unique storytelling format, interspersing regular third-person prose with "classified documents," transcripts, and reports that add a layer of mystery and world-building to the narrative.
Idols (Book 2)
Following the dramatic conclusion of the first book, the focus shifts to a global rebellion. In Idols, the Icon Children escape the Embassy and travel to South Asia in search of the fifth Icon Child. This final installment raises the stakes, moving the action from the localized ruins of Los Angeles to international battlegrounds. The teens must learn to master their powers and make ultimate sacrifices to dismantle the House Lords' rule.
The Question of a Third Book: Is Icons Finished?
One of the most common questions readers have after finishing Idols is whether there is a third installment. The short answer is no. While many young adult dystopian trilogies were popular during the early 2010s, Margaret Stohl designed the Icons series to be a complete duology. The narrative arc of the rebellion and the mystery of the House Lords is fully resolved by the end of the second book. Stohl has not announced any plans for sequels, companion novellas, or spin-offs, meaning you can dive into this series knowing you'll get a complete story without a massive reading commitment.
Reading Advice and Similar Recommendations
If you're a fan of high-stakes young adult science fiction, Icons offers a fast-paced, emotionally resonant journey. Here are a few practical tips:
- Best Starting Point: Start immediately with Icons. There are no prequels or promotional short stories to track down beforehand.
- Standalones: Neither book can be read as a standalone. They function as two halves of a single, continuous story.
- Tone and Style: If you enjoyed Margaret Stohl’s work on the Beautiful Creatures series (co-authored with Kami Garcia), you'll find a similar focus on character relationships and emotional drama here, though set in a gritty sci-fi environment rather than a gothic fantasy town.
- Perfect for Fans of: The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins, The 5th Wave by Rick Yancey, and The Darkest Minds by Alexandra Bracken.