Books in Order
Laini Taylor Books in Order
About Laini Taylor
Laini Taylor (born 1971, San Francisco) writes lushly imagined fantasy distinguished by its ornate prose style, mythologically rich world-building, and deeply romantic storylines. Her Daughter of Smoke and Bone trilogy introduced Karou — a blue-haired art student in Prague who discovers she was raised by demons — and became an international bestseller. Her Strange the Dreamer duology further established her as one of the most distinctive stylists in fantasy. Taylor's writing is often described as "dark fairy tale" — beautiful, strange, and emotionally devastating. She won the Locus Award for Best Young Adult Book for Daughter of Smoke and Bone.
Start with Daughter of Smoke and Bone. It is the perfect entry point — standalone enough to hook you, rich enough to make you desperate for the rest of the trilogy.
Daughter of Smoke and Bone Trilogy
Full Series Page →Her signature work. A blue-haired artist, ancient enemies, and a love story that spans lifetimes and wars.
Book 1
![Daughter of Smoke and Bone cover]()
Daughter of Smoke and Bone
2011
Start hereKarou, an art student in Prague, discovers her demon-raising "family" is part of an ancient war.
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Book 2
![Days of Blood and Starlight cover]()
Days of Blood and Starlight
2012
The war between seraphim and chimaera continues. Darker and more expansive.
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Book 3
![Dreams of Gods and Monsters cover]()
Strange the Dreamer Duology
Standalone duology set in a completely separate world — a city that has forgotten its own name, and a librarian who dreams of it.
Book 1
![Strange the Dreamer cover]()
Strange the Dreamer
2017
Start here for this duologyLazlo Strange has dreamed of the mythical city of Weep his whole life. Now he has a chance to find it.
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Earlier Work
Lips Touch Three Times
2008
National Book Award FinalistThree short stories of supernatural kisses. National Book Award Finalist. Illustrated by Jim Di Bartolo.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Which Laini Taylor series should I start with?
Most readers recommend starting with Daughter of Smoke and Bone — it is her most beloved series and remains her masterwork. Strange the Dreamer is equally excellent and works as a completely separate entry point if the premise appeals more to you.
Is Laini Taylor's writing style unusual?
Yes — Taylor writes in a distinctive literary style that is more lyrical and descriptive than typical YA fantasy. Her prose is often compared to poetry. Some readers find it intoxicating; others find it occasionally excessive. Most who stick with it become devoted fans.
Is Daughter of Smoke and Bone being adapted?
As of 2025, a film adaptation of Daughter of Smoke and Bone has been in development for years at various studios but has not been completed. No confirmed release date exists.