Recommended Reading Path: Where to Start?
If you are new to the worlds of Anna Banks, your best starting point is unquestionably Of Poseidon, the first novel in her bestselling YA fantasy trilogy, The Syrena Legacy. This book introduces the core mythology of the Syrena (her unique take on mermaids) and sets up the primary romance between Emma and Galen. While there are prequel novellas, reading the main trilogy in publication order is highly recommended to avoid early spoilers and ease into the world-building naturally.
For readers who prefer high-fantasy politics over mermaid romance, the Nemesis duology is an excellent alternative entry point. It is a completely separate universe, so you can read it before or after the Syrena books without issue.
The Syrena Legacy: Complete Reading Order
The Syrena Legacy is Anna Banks's most famous work, centering on the romance between a snarky, half-human girl and a prince of the sea. While the main storyline is told across three core novels, Banks also released companion novellas that expand on the history and side characters of the universe.
Option 1: Publication Order (Recommended for First-Time Readers)
This order follows the books as they were released. It is the safest way to read the series because the novellas are designed to complement the lore you have already learned in the main novels.
- Of Poseidon (2012) — The core entry point introducing Emma and Galen.
- Legacy Lost (2012) — A prequel novella focusing on Grom and Nalia. (Though published around the same time as book 1, it contains details that make more sense once you know the basic premise).
- Of Triton (2013) — The direct sequel to Of Poseidon.
- The Stranger (2013) — A companion short story explaining how Galen met Rachel.
- Of Neptune (2014) — The final book in the main trilogy.
- Girls Day Out (2014) — A fun, lighthearted digital short featuring Emma and Rayna, set before the events of Of Neptune but published later.
Option 2: Chronological Reading Order
If you are planning a reread or want to experience the events in the exact order they happened historically in the universe, use this timeline:
- The Stranger (Novella) — Explores the early relationship of Galen and Rachel.
- Legacy Lost (Novella) — Tells the tragic backstory of the Syrena kingdoms and Grom's arranged marriage to Nalia.
- Of Poseidon (Book 1) — Emma and Galen meet on the beaches of Florida.
- Of Triton (Book 2) — Emma faces the Triton court.
- Girls Day Out (Novella) — Emma and Rayna's shopping trip, occurring right before the climax of the series.
- Of Neptune (Book 3) — The final conflict in the Neptune kingdom.
The Nemesis Duology
Moving away from the ocean, the Nemesis series is a high-stakes, epic YA fantasy duology set in a world of sand, magic, and royal conflict. The series features Princess Sepora, who can generate a highly valuable energy source called Specta, and King Tarik, who is trying to save his dying kingdom. Since this is a tightly plotted duology, it must be read in order:
- Nemesis (2016)
- Ally (2017)
Standalone Novels and Adult Romance
If you need a break from fantasy series, Anna Banks has written several standalone contemporary romances and romantic comedies:
- Joyride (2015) — A contemporary YA novel following a sarcasm-loving girl named Carly and a rebellious boy named Arden as they execute late-night pranks that lead to deep secrets.
- How to Lose a Bachelor (2015) — A fun romantic comedy styled after reality television dating shows.
- The Cinderella Reversal (2022) — A modern romantic comedy featuring AnnaBelle Mason, who accidentally marries a handsome stranger named Ian Jackson after an impulsive flight to escape her high-society life.
Additionally, under the pen name Anna Scarlett, Banks co-authors spicier adult romance novels, such as Degrees of Wrong, which offer a shift in target audience and mature themes compared to her YA titles.
What to Know Before You Start
Anna Banks is celebrated for her trademark style: strong, highly sarcastic heroines, fast-paced dialogue, and slow-burn romances. Her books are generally lighthearted and filled with banter, though they still tackle heavier themes like identity, societal class divides, and sacrifice. The Syrena Legacy series was optioned for film adaptation by Mad Hatter Entertainment, cementing its legacy as a modern YA mermaid classic.