Zen Cho Books in Order

Need a complete list of Zen Cho books in order? This complete reading order guide covers all the books from first to latest, and is always updated so you won’t miss a release!

Zen Cho is a Malaysian-born author whose storytelling has captivated readers across the globe. Born in 1986, Zen’s creative journey began at a very young age, sparked by her love for reading. By the time she was just six years old, she was already crafting her own stories, having learned to read around the age of three or four. Raised in Malaysia during the late 20th century, she immersed herself in classic literature, particularly the works of 19th-century North American and British authors. This early exposure to intricate narratives set in strange, foreign worlds with unique customs and languages influenced her deeply, shaping the kinds of stories she would later tell. These influences would come to life in her own novels, where fantastical elements, vibrant worlds, and compelling characters take center stage.

Zen’s educational background is in law, having studied at the prestigious University of Cambridge. Though she pursued a career in law, working as a lawyer in London, her true passion lies in writing. Balancing a demanding career and her love for storytelling is no easy feat for Zen. She often shares how difficult it is to find time to write amidst her busy schedule, but she is determined to carve out a bit of time every day for her craft. Still, she emphasizes that her social life and time spent with loved ones are just as important as her writing. In fact, Zen has expressed that, when reflecting on her life one day, she hopes to feel content knowing she spent ample time with the people she loves while also leaving behind a legacy of stories that will live on.

Zen Cho’s debut novel, Sorcerer to the Crown, released in 2015, marked her arrival in the world of fantasy fiction. The book is the first in her Sorcerer Royal series and introduces readers to Zacharias Wythe, a skilled magician and former slave, who embarks on an adventure to uncover the mystery behind England’s waning magical power. Set in a Regency-era world brimming with magic, Sorcerer to the Crown blends fantasy, historical fiction, and romance, creating a unique and charming narrative that has garnered praise for its richly developed characters and vivid atmosphere. The novel was not only well-received but also nominated for Best Novel by the British Fantasy Society, cementing Zen Cho as a notable voice in the fantasy genre.

Following the success of her debut, Zen Cho released The True Queen in 2019, the second book in the Sorcerer Royal series. This novel shifts focus to Muna and Sakti, two sisters cursed by a mysterious enchanter. As Sakti’s life begins to fade away, Muna embarks on a journey to save her, navigating the complex world of British magic and high society. The True Queen introduces new characters and expands the magical universe Zen created in her first book, while maintaining the charm, wit, and immersive storytelling that made her debut such a hit. For many readers, it became the sequel they didn’t even know they were waiting for.

Before her novels, Zen Cho also made her mark with a short story collection titled Spirits Abroad (2014), showcasing her unique voice and ability to blend the supernatural with elements of everyday life. Her talent for creating engaging stories and her knack for character-driven narratives are evident throughout her body of work.

Zen Cho’s work often explores themes of identity, power, and belonging, wrapped in engaging plots and set against rich, fantastical backdrops. Her writing doesn’t shy away from addressing social issues, even as it entertains, making her stories both thought-provoking and enjoyable. In addition to her novels, she is also known for The Perilous Life of Jade Yeo (2012), a standalone novel set in the 1920s, about a young woman navigating the literary world and her own path in life. The novel, with its sharp humor and vibrant characters, earned Zen Cho praise for her ability to write with wit and insight.

Despite her growing success, Zen remains humble about her journey. She often mentions that writing a novel is a learning process, one that is fraught with challenges, but one that she embraces. Her perseverance and dedication to her craft have undoubtedly paid off, as her work continues to resonate with a diverse global audience. Zen Cho has received numerous accolades for her writing, including the British Fantasy Award for Best Newcomer and the Crawford Fantasy Award, among others.

In her work, Zen Cho has managed to create a world where magic is not just an escape, but a means of exploring deeper human experiences. Whether through the historical intrigue of Sorcerer to the Crown, the poignant sisterhood in The True Queen, or the witty, sharp prose of The Perilous Life of Jade Yeo, Zen Cho’s writing invites readers to step into worlds both familiar and foreign, offering stories that are as magical as they are meaningful.