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author Reading Order

Ava Reid Books in Order

6 Books
2021 – 2025 Published
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Reading order

Where to Start with Ava Reid’s Novels

Ava Reid has quickly established herself as a powerhouse in modern gothic fantasy, crafting worlds where dark academia, folklore, and sharp feminist commentary collide. Because the majority of her bibliography consists of standalones or distinct, self-contained duologies, you have a lot of flexibility in how you begin. However, we recommend choosing your entry point based on your preferred target age and subgenre:

  • For Young Adult and Dark Academia Fans: Start with A Study in Drowning (2023). This bestselling YA novel is widely considered her most accessible work. It is a brilliant gateway to her lyrical prose style, featuring a gothic academic mystery, academic rivalries, and rich Welsh mythology.
  • For Adult Fantasy and Dark Folklore Lovers: Start with The Wolf and the Woodsman (2021). As Reid's debut novel, it immediately throws readers into a brutal, atmospheric world heavily inspired by Hungarian history and Jewish folklore, dealing with complex themes of faith, power, and survival.

Ava Reid Books by Publication Order

If you want to experience Ava Reid's evolution as a writer, reading her books in the order they were published is a fantastic choice. Here is the chronological sequence of her releases, including both her adult and young adult fiction:

  1. The Wolf and the Woodsman (2021) — Her adult debut, combining Hungarian folklore with political intrigue.
  2. Juniper & Thorn (2022) — An adult gothic horror fairytale retelling of the Brothers Grimm's "The Juniper Tree."
  3. A Study in Drowning (2023) — The YA dark academia novel that launched the Drowning & Dreaming duology.
  4. 12 Women in Science (2024) — A brief nonfiction standalone collection celebrating pioneering historical women in STEM.
  5. Lady Macbeth (2024) — An adult gothic, feminist reimagining of Shakespeare's famous tragedy.
  6. A Theory of Dreaming (2025) — The direct YA sequel to A Study in Drowning.
  7. An Archive of Romance (2025) — An illustrated companion novella and epilogue set in the world of A Study in Drowning.
  8. Fable for the End of the World (2025) — A standalone adult dystopian romance described as a sapphic survival journey.
  9. Innamorata (2026) — The opening installment of the adult gothic fantasy House of Teeth duology.
  10. Winterveil (2026) — A cutthroat YA dystopian academy thriller starting a new duology.

Understanding Ava Reid’s Series & Shared Worlds

The Woodsman Universe

While The Wolf and the Woodsman and Juniper & Thorn are standalone novels, they are set within the same fictional universe. However, they take place in different locations and time periods with entirely separate characters and plots. You can read them in either order without spoiling the other, though The Wolf and the Woodsman provides some helpful world-building context regarding the shared lore of this universe.

The Drowning & Dreaming Duology

Unlike her standalone works, this YA dark academia series features a continuous narrative and must be read in order. The series follows the lives and academic struggles of Effy Sayre and Preston Héloury:

  • Book 1: A Study in Drowning (2023)
  • Book 2: A Theory of Dreaming (2025)
  • Companion: An Archive of Romance (2025) — A supplemental novella filled with diary entries, letters, and an epilogue for the series.

The House of Teeth Duology

Reid's return to adult gothic fantasy begins with Innamorata (2026), the first book in the House of Teeth duology. Set on a mysterious island where forbidden necromancy clashes with royal ambitions, this duology should be read starting with book one.

The Winterveil Duology

Beginning in late 2026, Winterveil marks a shift into YA dystopian sci-fi/fantasy. Set at a cutthroat training academy during an alternate, extended Cold War, this duology is best read in publication order starting with the first volume.

What to Know Before You Start

Ava Reid's books are known for their beautiful, flowy prose, but they do not shy away from heavy themes. Her stories frequently deal with domestic abuse, trauma, religious persecution, and sexism. If you are sensitive to these topics, it is highly recommended to check content warnings before diving into books like Juniper & Thorn or Lady Macbeth. Additionally, keep in mind that Reid's books focus heavily on character growth and emotional catharsis over high-action combat, making them perfect for fans of slow-burn, atmospheric fiction.

Frequently Asked

QIs A Study in Drowning a standalone book?

No, A Study in Drowning is the first book in a young adult duology. Its direct sequel is A Theory of Dreaming, which should be followed by the companion novella An Archive of Romance.

QAre The Wolf and the Woodsman and Juniper & Thorn connected?

Yes, they are set in the same fictional universe, but they take place in different eras and locations with different characters. You can read them in either order as independent standalones.

QWhat is Ava Reid's target audience?

Ava Reid writes for both young adult (YA) and adult audiences. Her YA works include A Study in Drowning and Winterveil, while her adult novels include The Wolf and the Woodsman, Juniper & Thorn, Lady Macbeth, and Innamorata.

QIs 12 Women in Science a fantasy novel?

No, 12 Women in Science is a standalone nonfiction book published in 2024 that highlights the biographical stories of twelve pioneering female scientists, rather than a fantasy story.

QWhat is the order of the House of Teeth series?

The series begins with Innamorata (2026). As it is a duology, the subsequent book should be read after completing the first.