What are the 7 books in the After series? And why do they make us question the nature of love and chaos?

What are the 7 books in the After series? And why do they make us question the nature of love and chaos?

The After series, written by Anna Todd, has captivated readers worldwide with its intense portrayal of love, heartbreak, and self-discovery. The series, which began as a fanfiction inspired by One Direction, has grown into a cultural phenomenon, spawning movies and a dedicated fanbase. But what exactly are the seven books in the After series, and how do they explore the complexities of relationships and personal growth? Let’s dive into the world of Tessa Young and Hardin Scott, and uncover the layers of this addictive saga.


1. After (2014)

The first book introduces us to Tessa, a disciplined and ambitious college freshman, and Hardin, the brooding bad boy with a mysterious past. Their initial attraction is undeniable, but their relationship is far from simple. The book sets the stage for a tumultuous love story, filled with passion, jealousy, and emotional turmoil. It raises questions about whether love can truly conquer all, or if some relationships are doomed from the start.


2. After We Collided (2014)

The second installment picks up where the first book left off, with Tessa and Hardin’s relationship in shambles. Trust is broken, and both characters must confront their insecurities and mistakes. This book delves deeper into the idea of forgiveness and whether love can survive betrayal. It also explores the concept of self-worth, as Tessa begins to question whether she’s sacrificing too much for Hardin.


3. After We Fell (2014)

In the third book, Tessa and Hardin face new challenges as their lives take unexpected turns. Career opportunities, family drama, and personal growth test their bond. This book highlights the importance of communication in relationships and how external pressures can either strengthen or destroy a connection. It also introduces the idea that love isn’t always enough—sometimes, timing and circumstances play a crucial role.


4. After Ever Happy (2015)

The fourth book brings the series to a turning point, as Tessa and Hardin confront their pasts and the impact they’ve had on their present. Secrets are revealed, and both characters must decide whether they can move forward together or apart. This book explores the theme of healing and whether love can survive when both individuals are broken. It also challenges the notion of “happily ever after,” suggesting that happiness is a journey, not a destination.


5. Before (2015)

A prequel to the series, Before provides insight into Hardin’s life before he met Tessa. It delves into his troubled upbringing, his relationships, and the events that shaped him into the complex character we know. This book adds depth to Hardin’s character, making readers question whether his actions in the previous books were justified or simply a product of his past. It also raises the question of whether people can truly change, or if they’re forever defined by their history.


6. After We Fell: The Mafia (2016)

This spin-off novella takes a darker turn, exploring an alternate universe where Hardin is involved in the mafia. While not part of the main series, it offers a fascinating “what if” scenario, examining how different circumstances could have shaped Hardin and Tessa’s relationship. It also challenges readers to consider how much of our lives are shaped by choices versus fate.


7. After Ever Happy: The Wedding (2016)

The final book in the series brings Tessa and Hardin’s story to a close, as they navigate the challenges of adulthood and commitment. This book explores the idea of growth and whether two people can truly change for the better. It also raises questions about the nature of love—is it about passion, stability, or a combination of both? The ending leaves readers reflecting on the complexities of relationships and the sacrifices we make for love.


Why Does the After Series Resonate?

The After series resonates because it doesn’t shy away from the messy, complicated aspects of love. It challenges traditional romantic tropes by presenting a relationship that is far from perfect. The series forces readers to confront uncomfortable truths about love, such as the fact that it can be both beautiful and destructive. It also explores themes of self-discovery, forgiveness, and the idea that love is not always enough to sustain a relationship.

Moreover, the series has sparked debates about toxic relationships and whether Tessa and Hardin’s love story is aspirational or cautionary. Some readers admire their passion and resilience, while others criticize the series for romanticizing unhealthy dynamics. This duality is what makes the After series so compelling—it doesn’t provide easy answers, but instead invites readers to question their own beliefs about love and relationships.


  1. Is the After series based on a true story?
    No, the After series is a work of fiction, though it was originally inspired by Anna Todd’s fanfiction about One Direction.

  2. Are the After movies faithful to the books?
    While the movies capture the essence of the books, some details and subplots are altered or omitted for cinematic purposes.

  3. Why is Hardin Scott such a controversial character?
    Hardin’s complex personality and often toxic behavior make him a polarizing figure. Some readers find him intriguing, while others view him as problematic.

  4. What age group is the After series intended for?
    The series is targeted at young adults, but its mature themes make it more suitable for older teens and adults.

  5. Will there be more books in the After series?
    As of now, the series is complete, but Anna Todd has written spin-offs and companion novels that expand on the After universe.