Zoe Saadia Books in Order

This reading order guide provides the complete list of Zoe Saadia books in order, from the first to the latest, and is always updated so you won’t miss anything!

Zoe Saadia is a historical fiction author whose passion for storytelling has brought new life to an often-overlooked part of world history — the pre-Columbian Americas. Originally from the United States, she has dedicated over a decade to researching and writing about the cultures, people, and events that shaped the great civilizations of North and Mesoamerica, long before European contact. Through her novels, Saadia invites readers to explore a time rich in wisdom, traditions, and political complexity — a time many know little about, yet one that holds deep significance.

What makes Zoe Saadia stand out among historical fiction writers is her unique focus. While most authors lean toward European or ancient Mediterranean settings, Saadia chose to tell the stories of the Aztec Empire and the Iroquois Confederacy — civilizations that were powerful, organized, and incredibly advanced in their own ways. Her books don’t just aim to entertain; they educate, enlighten, and challenge the reader’s understanding of history.

Her journey into this world didn’t begin with a plan to write novels about the Americas. In fact, she first became fascinated with ancient Rome and its political structures. But her curiosity took a different turn when she came across the Iroquois Great League — a remarkably democratic and balanced system of government that had existed in North America for centuries. As she dove deeper, she couldn’t ignore the parallels between Republican Rome and the Great League. This realization sparked a deep interest in the rich, untold stories of Native American cultures — stories that would eventually shape her life’s work.

Zoe Saadia’s most beloved series include The Rise of the Aztecs, Pre-Aztec, The Aztec Chronicles, The Great Peacemaker Series, and People of the Longhouse. These books are not just historical accounts — they are powerful, character-driven sagas that bring the past to life. Whether it’s the majestic pyramids of the Mexican Valley or the longhouses by the Great Lakes, Saadia’s vivid descriptions and deep research help readers feel like they’re walking alongside the characters, experiencing every emotion and challenge they face.

One of her most remarkable achievements is the Mesoamerican Saga, which spans two series and eleven novels. These books explore the rise of the Aztec Empire, a civilization known for its ambition, strategy, and culture. Saadia paints a complex picture of this time period — one that moves far beyond the common image of war and conquest. Her characters are dreamers, leaders, rebels, and visionaries, struggling to build something lasting in a turbulent world.

Equally powerful is her North American Saga, centered around the birth of the Iroquois Confederacy — a political alliance that would influence democratic systems for centuries to come. This saga, split into two series and eight novels, tells the story of brave leaders and outcasts who dared to dream of peace in a time of endless war. Through their journey, readers see the power of unity and diplomacy in shaping a better future.

Among her most emotionally resonant works is The Great Peacemaker Series, beginning with Two Rivers. This series follows Tekeni, a young man caught between two worlds, and Two Rivers, a visionary peacemaker with radical ideas. Together, their story unfolds through conflict, friendship, and transformation. These novels touch on deep themes of identity, belonging, and courage, making them relatable to readers of all ages and backgrounds.

Another standout book, Across the Great Sparkling Water, follows Onheda, a young woman torn between tradition and survival. Her journey, marked by fear, hope, and unexpected encounters, showcases Saadia’s gift for creating strong, believable characters who live in the heart of history. The questions Onheda faces — about freedom, community, and destiny — echo far beyond the page.

What truly sets Zoe Saadia apart is her heartfelt mission. She believes that the history of the Americas — the real history, not just the story told after colonization — is still waiting to be discovered. In her words, it’s a tragedy that these civilizations have been left out of the broader historical narrative. And it’s even more tragic that historical fiction, as a genre, has often ignored them. With every book, she works to change that — not with lectures, but with compelling, immersive storytelling that captures the imagination.

In a world where historical fiction often revisits the same periods and places, Zoe Saadia dares to tread new ground. Her books are windows into a past that feels both ancient and alive, familiar and foreign. Whether you’re a history lover, a fan of gripping sagas, or simply someone searching for a story that feels different, her novels are sure to leave a lasting impression.