Where to Start with Cortney Pearson
If you are new to Cortney Pearson's books, the absolute best place to start is with The Chosen Series (originally published as the Stolen Tears series). This series showcases Pearson's signature style: unique, emotion-based magic systems, high-stakes YA fantasy worldbuilding, and slow-burn romance. For readers who prefer swashbuckling adventure over courtly intrigue, the Curse of the Pirate series is another excellent entry point.
Because some of Pearson's books have undergone title changes and series rebranding, keeping track of the correct order is essential. Below, we break down each major series, explain the title changes, and provide the recommended reading order for each universe.
1. The Chosen Series (Formerly The Stolen Tears Series)
This is Cortney Pearson's flagship young adult fantasy series. It is set in a unique world where human tears hold tangible magic, making them a highly sought-after commodity. The main story follows Ambry Csille, a sixteen-year-old girl living in an emotionless society where she must protect her people's magic from the ruthless Arcaian soldiers who hunt them down to steal their power.
Important Note on Title Changes: The series was originally published under the series name Stolen Tears, with titles beginning with "Such a...". In 2021, Pearson rebranded the series to The Chosen Series and updated the titles. When looking for these books, make sure you match the original titles to their new counterparts so you do not accidentally purchase the same book twice.
The Chosen Series Recommended Reading Order:
- Book 0.5: Such a Clever Deception (2021) – A prequel novella that sets up the political tensions and magic system. While not strictly mandatory, it provides great context.
- Book 1: Chosen Guardian (originally published in 2016 as Such a Secret Place; rebranded in 2021) – The core entry point where Ambry's story begins.
- Book 2: Chosen Dreams (originally published in 2016 as Such a Daring Endeavor; rebranded in 2021) – The second installment, continuing Ambry and Talon's complex relationship.
- Book 3: Chosen Fate (originally published in 2017 as Such a Dangerous Game; rebranded in 2021) – The conclusion of the original trilogy.
- Book 4: Chosen Warrior (2021) – A companion novel or final entry focusing on the character Talon Haraway as he rises in the Arcaian army and meets a kitchen maid named Aria.
2. Curse of the Pirate Series
If you love high-seas adventure, magical tournaments, and forbidden romance, the Curse of the Pirate series is a fantastic read. This series follows feisty princesses, deadly trials, and powerful magic, all wrapped in a classic fantasy adventure setting. Unlike The Chosen, this series has kept its original titles and publication order, making it straightforward to read.
Curse of the Pirate Reading Order:
- Book 1: Princess of Death (2018)
- Book 2: Tournament of Power (2019)
- Book 3: Servant of Magic (2021)
- Book 4: Queen of Immortality (2022)
Reader Tip: Do not confuse this series with Cortney Pearson's other pirate-themed series, The Cursed Tides (which includes The Pirate's Bride, The Pirate's Vow, The Pirate's Wish, and The Pirate's Queen). While both feature romance and ocean-bound magic, they are separate stories and should be read independently.
3. The Forbidden Doors Series
For readers who enjoy a darker, paranormal romance vibe, The Forbidden Doors series delivers. The story centers on mysterious doors that should never be opened, blending suspense, magic, and romance. The series consists of two main books. While they are connected, the second book can also function as a standalone companion.
The Forbidden Doors Reading Order:
- Book 1: Phobic (Originally published in 2014; updated/re-released in 2021) – The initial story that establishes the paranormal rules of the world.
- Book 2: Intrinsic (2017) – A companion novel expanding on the universe.
Chronological Note: Some retail platforms and catalogs list Intrinsic before Phobic due to the 2021 re-release/listing update date for Phobic. However, Phobic was originally published first in 2014 and serves as the conceptual starting point for the duology.
4. The Chuzzlewit Chronicles
If you are looking for a quick, imaginative detour, The Chuzzlewit Chronicles offers a steampunk-inspired fantasy adventure. The primary book in this collection is:
- The Perilous in Between (2018)
This book showcases Pearson's versatility, trading classical high fantasy for gears, gadgets, and whimsical clockwork elements while maintaining the strong emotional core and slow-burn romance that her readers love.
What to Know Before You Start
Cortney Pearson's writing style is heavily influenced by her background as a classical musician and a mother of four living in Idaho. You will often notice lyrical descriptions and rhythmic pacing in her prose, especially when detailing the magical systems. Her fantasy romances are typically characterized as "clean" or "low-blush" slow-burns, focusing on intense emotional chemistry, slow-sizzle tension, and loyalty. If you enjoy authors like Sarah J. Maas or Leigh Bardugo but prefer less explicit romance content, Pearson is an ideal choice for your TBR list.