Amélie Wen Zhao Books in Order

This reading order guide provides the complete list of Amélie Wen Zhao books in order, from the very first to the latest, so you won’t miss anything!

Amélie Wen Zhao is a rising star in the world of Young Adult fantasy, known for her richly layered storytelling and unforgettable characters. With a voice that feels both fresh and timeless, Zhao invites readers into worlds filled with dark magic, emotional depth, and epic journeys. Her books are more than just fantasy adventures—they’re immersive experiences that speak to the heart as much as to the imagination.

Born in Paris and raised in Beijing, Amélie grew up surrounded by a blend of cultures, traditions, and perspectives. This global background plays a powerful role in shaping the way she tells stories. From an early age, she was drawn to myths, legends, and tales of otherworldly lands. Her love for storytelling only grew stronger as she read widely and dreamed up her own characters and kingdoms. Living in an international community gave her a deeper understanding of people, history, and identity—all of which now flow seamlessly into her writing.

After moving to the United States, Amélie attended New York University, where she graduated from the prestigious Leonard N. Stern School of Business in 2014. Though her professional journey began in finance, her passion for writing never faded. She would often write late into the night, building the foundations of what would become her debut series. That passion eventually led her to pursue writing full-time, and readers around the world are glad she did.

Amélie Wen Zhao made her authorial debut with Blood Heir in 2019, the first installment of what would become the beloved Blood Heir Trilogy. The story follows Ana Mikhailov, a powerful young woman burdened by her past and driven by a fierce sense of justice. Blending fast-paced action with emotional intensity, Zhao created a fantasy world that feels vivid, dark, and incredibly alive. Her storytelling stands out for its complexity and care—every plot twist, every piece of world-building, is handled with precision.

Zhao’s work is often described as “epic” for good reason. Her books feature sweeping landscapes, intricate magic systems, and political intrigue that keeps readers turning the pages. But beyond the fantasy elements lies something even more powerful: a deep emotional core. Her characters grapple with loyalty, identity, grief, and courage. They’re flawed but determined, and their journeys feel deeply human, even in the most fantastical settings.

In Red Tigress (2021), the second book in the trilogy, Zhao expands the world she created in Blood Heir. The stakes are higher, the villains more menacing, and the battles even more intense. Ana’s path is full of danger and betrayal, but it’s also one of growth and resilience. Zhao’s writing here shines, with vivid descriptions and thrilling action scenes balanced by moments of quiet strength.

By the time readers reach Crimson Reign (2022), they’re fully immersed in a saga that’s both heart-wrenching and hopeful. The conclusion ties together the themes Zhao has explored from the start—power, sacrifice, and the courage it takes to fight for what’s right. It’s a finale that delivers on every promise made in the earlier books, leaving fans both satisfied and eager for more from the author.

One of the things that makes Amélie Wen Zhao’s work so memorable is her commitment to authenticity. She does extensive research to ensure that her stories feel grounded, even in the midst of magic and myth. Her attention to detail brings each setting to life, whether it’s a frozen kingdom, a hidden fortress, or a royal court filled with secrets.

Zhao also has a gift for creating characters who stay with you long after you’ve finished the final page. Her heroines are bold and complex, her villains are chilling yet layered, and even the side characters feel fully formed. In her hands, the world is never just a backdrop—it becomes a living, breathing presence that shapes every decision, every emotion, every twist of fate.

Now living in Manhattan, New York, Amélie continues to write and inspire. Her voice in the fantasy genre is both unique and essential, offering stories that challenge, entertain, and uplift. Whether you’re a longtime fantasy lover or new to the genre, Zhao’s books are a must-read—especially for fans of dark fantasy, rich character development, and powerful world-building.

With her strong debut trilogy and more projects surely on the horizon, Amélie Wen Zhao is an author to watch. Her storytelling leaves a mark—not just through thrilling battles or magical powers, but through the emotions she stirs and the questions she asks. In a world filled with fantasy authors, Zhao has carved out a space all her own—and readers everywhere are ready to follow wherever she leads next.