In the ever-growing universe of fantasy fiction, few series have captured the imagination of readers quite likeZodiac Academyby Susanne Valenti and her sister Caroline Peckham. The series has become a cult favorite in the realm of dark academia, urban fantasy, and romantasy, thanks to its gripping storyline, multi-dimensional characters, and the unique blend of magic, astrology, and tension-filled romance. With a vast cast, complex relationships, and an immersive world, Zodiac Academy has solidified Susanne Valenti’s name as a rising force in fantasy literature. Readers who crave powerful heroines, dangerous choices, and morally gray characters continue to be drawn to the pages of this saga.
About Susanne Valenti
Background and Writing Journey
Susanne Valenti is a British author who writes in collaboration with her sister Caroline Peckham. Together, they have carved out a unique niche in the world of new adult and fantasy fiction. The duo began their writing careers with smaller series before reaching critical mass with Zodiac Academy. Their writing is known for its fast pace, witty dialogue, emotional highs and lows, and a fearless approach to genre-bending storytelling.
Susanne’s writing style stands out for its ability to balance high fantasy world-building with relatable emotional struggles. Readers praise her for delivering compelling internal conflicts and characters who make flawed, realistic decisions. This adds depth to the magical setting and enhances the immersion for fans who crave more than just spells and swordplay.
The Birth of Zodiac Academy
Series Concept and Themes
Zodiac Academy is a fantasy series centered on twin sisters, Tory and Darcy Vega, who discover they belong to a hidden magical world connected to the zodiac signs. Upon enrolling in an elite academy that trains Fae with elemental powers, the twins must navigate betrayal, power struggles, and complex relationships. The story blends elements of astrology, coming-of-age conflict, enemies-to-lovers romance, and political intrigue.
The title itself draws interest from astrology lovers and fans of fantasy school settings. Zodiac Academy explores a society where birth signs influence power, status, and identity adding an original twist to the classic magical academy trope. Susanne Valenti, through her co-writing efforts, creates an elaborate world filled with elemental magic, royal bloodlines, and hidden truths.
Main Books in the Series
The series currently includes:
- Zodiac Academy: The Awakening
- Zodiac Academy: Ruthless Fae
- Zodiac Academy: The Reckoning
- Zodiac Academy: Shadow Princess
- Zodiac Academy: Cursed Fates
- Zodiac Academy: Fated Throne
- Zodiac Academy: Heartless Sky
- Zodiac Academy: Sorrow and Starlight
Each book increases in intensity, and the plot grows more sophisticated with every installment. The stakes evolve from simple survival in the academy to large-scale political upheaval across the magical realm. This long-form storytelling allows Susanne Valenti and Caroline Peckham to explore character growth and emotional transformation in significant depth.
Key Elements of the Series
Astrological Powers and Magic System
The world of Zodiac Academy is built around elemental powers, influenced by astrological signs. Each Fae’s zodiac sign grants them specific traits and magical affinities. Fire, water, earth, and air form the basis of combat and utility spells, while unique magical abilities emerge based on lineage and training. Susanne Valenti develops this system with rich detail, making the magical battles thrilling and the class dynamics believable.
Romantic Tension and Complex Relationships
Romance in Zodiac Academy is far from typical. The series leans into enemies-to-lovers dynamics, forbidden love, and slow-burning tension. Characters struggle with identity, loyalty, and their pasts, making the romantic arcs emotionally charged. Susanne Valenti and her co-author ensure that love is never easy or cliché; it is often painful, unexpected, and character-defining.
Moral Grayness and Dark Themes
The books explore dark themes such as betrayal, vengeance, and the cost of power. Characters make decisions that blur the line between right and wrong. Valenti’s skill lies in creating morally gray characters people who are sometimes selfish, angry, or cruel but ultimately human and capable of change. This complexity appeals to older readers looking for mature fantasy without a sanitized narrative.
Impact and Fandom
BookTok and Reader Communities
Much of Zodiac Academy’s explosive popularity can be traced to social media, particularly BookTok. Fans have flooded platforms like TikTok and Instagram with memes, reaction videos, fan theories, and emotional responses to character arcs. The characters’ growth, plot twists, and heartbreaking betrayals often lead to viral reactions that draw in new readers.
Merchandise and Spin-Offs
Due to its cult following, Zodiac Academy has expanded beyond the books. Merchandise such as character art, candles, bookmarks, and clothing are now available from various vendors. Additionally, Susanne Valenti and Caroline Peckham have created spin-off novels that explore side characters or events outside the main timeline, deepening the world-building and satisfying loyal readers.
Reader Feedback and Author Interaction
Susanne Valenti is known for engaging with her readers online. She and her sister often respond to fan comments, share behind-the-scenes looks at their writing process, and offer insights into character decisions. This transparency has built trust and loyalty in their fanbase, strengthening the connection between readers and creators.
Why Zodiac Academy Stands Out
Blending Tropes with Originality
Though the series includes popular fantasy tropes such as chosen ones, magical schools, and forbidden romance it reinvents them with emotional depth and psychological realism. Susanne Valenti’s ability to write characters who are deeply flawed but still likable is a key reason the series resonates with fans. She creates scenarios where readers are constantly questioning motives, alliances, and endings.
Emotional Rollercoaster
Readers describe the experience of reading Zodiac Academy as intense, heartbreaking, and addictive. There are moments of joy, triumph, and love but they are hard-earned. Characters are tested, and nothing is guaranteed. This unpredictability has become one of the series’ defining features.
Appeal to Mature Fantasy Fans
Unlike many YA-oriented fantasy series, Zodiac Academy is targeted toward older teens and adults. The story tackles themes such as grief, trauma, personal identity, and emotional growth. Susanne Valenti crafts dialogue and plotlines that reflect the intensity of real-life emotional journeys, making the series relatable and cathartic for mature readers.
Susanne Valenti’s work on Zodiac Academy has redefined what it means to write fantasy for a mature audience. With rich world-building, complex characters, and emotionally resonant storytelling, the series has earned its place as a standout in the genre. For readers looking for a gripping magical world that doesn’t shy away from darkness or emotional realism, Zodiac Academy is a must-read. Susanne Valenti continues to evolve as an author, and her impact on the fantasy landscape shows no signs of slowing down. The magic of the stars, the pain of growing up, and the thrill of rebellion all come together under her pen, creating a universe that readers won’t forget anytime soon.