The Recommended Reading Order for Marked Men
To experience the emotional highs, found-family dynamics, and steamy chemistry of the series, the best path is to read the books in their official publication order. Because the characters are tightly interconnected—working at the same Denver tattoo shop, living together, or sharing family ties—reading them out of order will spoil major relationship developments and character growth from previous volumes. Start with the book that launched the New Adult tattoo romance craze and follow the crew chronologically.
- Rule (2012) – Focuses on pre-med student Shaw Landon and the rebellious, pierced tattoo artist Rule Archer.
- Jet (2013) – Features college student Ayden Stone and wild rockstar Jet Keller.
- Rome (2014) – Follows sassy shop manager Cora Lewis and battle-scarred veteran Rome Archer (Rule's older brother).
- Nash (2014) – Details the redemption of tattoo artist Nash Donovan and nurse Saint Ford.
- Rowdy (2014) – Pairs southern belle Salem Cruz with rough-around-the-edges tattoo artist Rowdy St. James.
- Asa (2015) – Concludes the main series with straight-laced police detective Royal Hastings and reformed bad boy Asa Cross.
The Saints of Denver Spin-Off Series
Once you finish the main Marked Men series, your journey in Crownover's Denver doesn't have to end. The spin-off series, Saints of Denver, focuses on a closely related circle of characters, including lawyers, reformed troublemakers, and associates of the original crew. Reading the Saints of Denver books in order expands the universe and brings back favorite characters from the original six books for delightful cameos.
- Leveled (Novella, 2015) – A prequel novella focusing on Orlando Croft and Dominic "Dominack" Kross. While listed as Book 0.5, it is best read after finishing the main Marked Men series to appreciate the crossover context.
- Built (2015) – Follows no-nonsense defense attorney Sayer Cole and rough-hewn contractor Zebulon Fuller.
- Charged (2016) – Follows troublemaker Avett Walker (reintroduced from Asa's book) and straight-laced attorney Quaid Carter.
- Riveted (2017) – Pairs the bubbly Dixie Carmichael with the brooding, quiet Church.
- Salvaged (2017) – Follows Poppy Cruz (Salem's sister from Rowdy's book) and the protective Wheeler.
Publication Order vs. Chronological Order
Unlike some complex fantasy or sci-fi series, the publication order of the Marked Men books perfectly mirrors the internal timeline of the story. The events of each book flow directly into the next. For instance, Rome Archer's recovery and transition back to civilian life are set up in the background of Jet before he takes center stage in Rome. Similarly, the dramatic events surrounding Asa Cross in Nash and Rowdy culminate in his redemption arc in the final book, Asa. Sticking to the publication order ensures you witness the natural progression of these character arcs without jumping back and forth in time.
What to Know Before You Start
Before you pick up your copy of Rule, here are a few things to keep in mind to enhance your reading experience:
- New Adult Pioneers: Set in Denver, Colorado, the Marked Men series is a classic representation of the early 2010s New Adult romance boom. The books deal with heavy themes like grief, healing from childhood trauma, finding identity, and navigating early adulthood. Expect high emotional angst alongside the steam.
- The Found-Family Dynamic: While each book functions as a standalone romance focusing on a single couple, the overarching narrative is driven by the tight-knit friendship group. The characters frequently hang out, interfere in each other's love lives, and support one another through intense hardships.
- Visual Adaptation: The enduring popularity of the first book led to a film adaptation titled Marked Men: Rule + Shaw, released in January 2025. Directed by Nick Cassavetes and starring Chase Stokes and Sydney Taylor, it provides a great visual companion for fans who want to see their favorite Denver rebels on screen.
- Separate Worlds: While Jay Crownover has written other popular, edgy romance series like The Point, they are set in entirely different locations and do not cross over with the Denver tattoo crew. You can read those series independently whenever you like.