Andrew van Aardvark Books in Order

Where to Start Reading Andrew van Aardvark

For readers diving into Andrew van Aardvark's expansive sci-fi universe, there are two primary entry points depending on your subgenre preference. If you enjoy character-driven military science fiction with a clear, linear rank-climbing trajectory, start with Katie Kincaid Candidate (2020). If you prefer classic, gritty space opera focused on smuggling, trading, and quick-witted crews, begin with Cold Stars, Free Trade (2018). For readers looking for something completely different, the comedic LitRPG series starting with Origin Story (2025) offers a lighter, satirical take on cosmic bureaucracy.

Katie Kincaid Series in Order

This eight-book military science fiction saga follows Katie Kincaid from her early days as an hopeful applicant through the ranks of a futuristic space navy, culminating in high-stakes political maneuvers. It is highly recommended to read this series in strict publication order, as the overarching plot, character growth, and military career progression build directly from one book to the next.

1. Katie Kincaid Candidate (2020)
2. Katie Kincaid Space Cadet (2021)
3. Katie Kincaid Ensign (2021)
4. Katie Kincaid Lieutenant (2021)
5. Katie Kincaid Lieutenant Commander (2022)
6. Katie Kincaid: Commodore (2023)
7. Katie Kincaid Admiral (2023)
8. Katie Kincaid Politician (2024)

Captain Jack Black Series in Order

The Captain Jack Black trilogy follows Jack 'Ack-Ack' Black, a former military cog who becomes an independent free trader. This series balances military themes with corporate espionage and dark humor in a galaxy ruled by uncaring factions. The series should be read in chronological order:

1. Cold Stars, Free Trade (2018)
2. Hot Stars, Fair Trade (2020)
3. Far Stars, New Trade (2020)

Auditor to the Stars Series in Order

A departure from standard space opera, this LitRPG comedy series features Rob Hingley, an ordinary accountant who gets drafted by the Multiversal Audit Commission to audit dungeons, heroes, and deities. Read these in order:

1. Origin Story (2025)
2. Novice (2026)

Standalone Novels

If you want a self-contained story without committing to a multi-book series, van Aardvark has written several standalone sci-fi novels. These stories feature the author's signature blend of diverse casts, semi-plausible physics, and humorous banter:

• Terra's Evil Children (2017) — The author's debut novel exploring humanity's chaotic footprint in the cosmos.
• Peddler to the Stars (2018) — A story centered on intergalactic commerce and survival.
• Pirate Stars (2020) — Follows Jeannie, a young heiress forced to find her grit while fighting space pirates.
• Moving Target (2020) — A high-velocity chase across populated star systems.

What to Know Before You Start

Andrew van Aardvark is a pseudonym, and the author maintains strict anonymity. Despite the mystery behind the pen name, the stories themselves are grounded in consistent world-building rules. While the physics of space travel are treated with semi-plausibility (with the necessary exception of faster-than-light travel), the primary focus remains on the human element. The characters face overwhelming odds with grit, irony, and quick wit. Note that earlier works, particularly the debut novel, may feature minor editing quirks, but the storytelling and pacing mature significantly in later series like the Katie Kincaid run.