Your Ultimate Guide: The Best J.L.A Book to Begin With
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Diving into the captivating worlds of Jennifer L. Armentrout is like stepping into a realm where romance and fantasy collide. As a New York Times bestselling author, Armentrout has enchanted readers with her diverse range of books, from the electrifying Lux Series to the enthralling Blood and Ash saga.
Whether you’re drawn to the allure of paranormal romance, the intensity of new adult novels, or the charm of contemporary romance, there’s a perfect starting point for you. In this guide, we’ll help you navigate the best reading order, with insights into must-read titles like The Gilded Bones and Flesh and Fire. If you’re wondering where to begin or which series to fall in love with first, we’ve got you covered.
Let’s explore the essential books by Jennifer L. Armentrout that every fan—or soon-to-be fan—needs to read, from Daemon and Seth to the latest releases that have everyone talking. Whether you’re new to her work or looking to rediscover a beloved series, this guide will set you on the right path to a truly unforgettable reading experience.
1. The Lux Series
Start with: Obsidian (Book 1)
Meet Katy, a bookish teen who moves to a small town in West Virginia, only to discover her neighbor, Daemon Black, isn’t your typical guy—he’s an alien with a bad attitude and a dangerous secret. Obsidian is where it all begins, blending thrilling action with swoon-worthy romance.
Why read first? This series introduces you to Armentrout’s signature blend of paranormal romance and action. It’s perfect for getting a feel for her world-building and character dynamics, especially with its gripping love-hate relationship.
2. The Covenant Series
Start with: Half-Blood (Book 1)
Follow Alexandria “Alex” Andros as she navigates life at the Covenant, a school for demigods. She’s half-blood, half-mortal, and all sorts of trouble, especially when she meets the pure-blood warrior Aiden. Half-Blood kicks off a series full of Greek mythology, forbidden love, and fierce battles.
Why read next? After the high-stakes drama of the Lux series, the Covenant series deepens your dive into Armentrout’s love for complex, supernatural worlds, this time with a mythology twist. It also introduces Seth, a character who becomes pivotal in later books.
3. The Dark Elements Series
Start with: White Hot Kiss (Book 1)
Enter a world where gargoyles and demons battle for supremacy. Layla, a half-demon, half-gargoyle, finds herself torn between two worlds—and two guys, the sweet Zayne and the dangerous Roth. This series is an emotional rollercoaster with steamy romance and epic battles.
Why read next? This series adds a fresh paranormal twist, showcasing Armentrout’s ability to mix humor with heart-wrenching choices. It’s also an excellent segue into her more mature themes.
4. The Harbinger Series
Start with: Storm and Fury (Book 1)
Follow Trinity, a girl with extraordinary powers and a destiny that could end the world. When a demon named Zayne enters her life, everything changes. This series is set in the same world as The Dark Elements and continues the story with new characters and higher stakes.
Why read next? If you loved The Dark Elements, this continuation expands the universe while introducing new challenges and deeper romance, making it a natural follow-up.
5. The Blood and Ash Series
Start with: From Blood and Ash (Book 1)
Poppy has lived her life in isolation as the Maiden, but her world is turned upside down when she meets Hawke, a guard with more secrets than she can fathom. This series blends high fantasy with sizzling romance, political intrigue, and jaw-dropping twists.
Why read next? By this point, you’re ready for Armentrout’s more mature, epic fantasy. From Blood and Ash delivers a deep, intricate plot with unforgettable characters and an intense romance that will keep you hooked.
6. The Flesh and Fire Series
Start with: A Shadow in the Ember (Book 1)
Set in the same universe as Blood and Ash, this prequel series explores the origin stories that shape Poppy’s world. The tale of Seraphena and Nyktos is full of passion, prophecy, and power struggles.
Why read next? This series enriches the Blood and Ash universe, giving you a deeper understanding of the lore and the epic love stories that span generations.
7. The Origin Series
Start with: The Darkest Star (Book 1)
Set in the Lux universe, this spin-off series follows Evie, who gets entangled with Luc, a character who plays a crucial role in the original series. It’s full of twists, romance, and reveals that tie back to Daemon and Katy’s story.
Why read next? This series brings you full circle, connecting back to the Lux world while introducing new, compelling characters and continuing the saga with fresh excitement.
8. Standalone Romance: Wait for You
Start with: Wait for You
This contemporary romance follows Avery, a college student with a painful past, and her slow-burn relationship with Cameron, a guy who might be more than just a pretty face. This book is heartwarming, emotional, and full of Armentrout’s signature wit.
Why read next? After immersing yourself in paranormal and fantasy worlds, this standalone offers a grounded, relatable love story with all the feels. It’s a great palate cleanser that showcases Armentrout’s versatility.
9. The Wicked Trilogy
Start with: Wicked (Book 1)
Set in New Orleans, this trilogy follows Ivy Morgan, a secret paranormal hunter who battles Fae with her friends. When she meets Ren, a fellow hunter with secrets of his own, everything changes.
Why read next? This trilogy combines urban fantasy with Armentrout’s signature romance, offering a fun, fast-paced series with plenty of twists.
10. The War of Two Queens
Read after: The Crown of Gilded Bones (Book 3 of the Blood and Ash Series)
This continuation of the Blood and Ash series sees Poppy and her allies preparing for a war that could tear kingdoms apart. With love, power, and destiny at stake, this book is a must-read for fans of epic fantasy and romance.
Why read next? After journeying through Armentrout’s worlds, this latest installment brings everything together, delivering high stakes and emotional payoffs that will leave you eagerly awaiting the next chapter.
This order not only eases you into Jennifer L. Armentrout’s complex and immersive universes but also allows you to appreciate her growth as an author while keeping you thoroughly entertained.
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