If you’ve spent any time in Solaria, you know that Lionel Acrux is the absolute worst. He’s the guy you love to hate, or maybe just hate to hate. So, when Caroline Peckham and Susanne Valenti (the "Twisted Sisters") announced Zodiac Academy: Live and Let Lionel, the fandom had some feelings. A book dedicated to the man who ruined everything? Bold. But here’s the thing: it’s not really a Lionel book. Not in the way you think.
Basically, it’s a massive 100,000-word compilation of bonus content, bridge stories, and alternate perspectives. It acts as book 8.6 in the series. Honestly, calling it a "novella" feels like a bit of a stretch because it's thicker than some full novels in other series. Also making headlines in this space: The Sneako Visa Ban: Why Australia’s Character Test is a Feature, Not a Bug.
What’s Actually Inside Live and Let Lionel?
You’re not just reading Lionel’s diary here. Thank the Stars for that. Instead, the book is structured with Lionel "introducing" various chapters. He’s looking back on his enemies—the Vegas, the Heirs, the rebels—and essentially gloating about how he’s supposedly better than them. It’s peak narcissist behavior.
If you've been hunting down rare chapters from old charity anthologies or Facebook groups, most of them are finally in one place here. More details into this topic are covered by GQ.
- Savage: This is the story of Hail and Merissa Vega. It’s the origin of the love that basically started the whole mess. If you wanted to see the King and Queen before they were tragedy fodder, this is it.
- The Shimmering Springs: The "did they or didn't they" moment between Caleb and Seth. Fans have been screaming about this specific night for years.
- Seth on the Moon: Yes, it is exactly what it sounds like. It’s weird. It’s Seth. If you like his unhinged energy, you’ll love it. If you don't... well, it’s a choice.
- Night: A crossover moment where the Vega twins meet the characters from the Ruthless Boys of the Zodiac series.
There are also brand new alternate points of view (POVs) that weren't released anywhere else before this collection. We get Orion’s perspective on the "Fairy Fair" and the moment he saw Darcy with blue hair. We also get Darius in the throne room and a very emotional "Stars" POV from him.
Why the Lionel Intros Matter (or Don’t)
Some readers find the Lionel commentary a bit clunky. He’s delusional, obviously. He writes like he’s a misunderstood hero, which is hilarious or infuriating depending on your mood. Each chapter starts with a little snippet of his "memoirs."
"I dedicate this book to none other than me, King Lionel Acrux. For I am great beyond measure, handsome and humble, valiant and a visionary."
It’s definitely a "money grab" for some, but for completionists, it’s the only way to get the full picture of the Solarian timeline. You don't need it to understand the main plot of Book 9, but it adds a lot of flavor. Especially that Caleb and Seth content. That's basically essential reading at this point.
The Reading Order Dilemma
Don't touch this book too early. Seriously. If you read Zodiac Academy: Live and Let Lionel before you finish Book 8 (Sorrow and Starlight), you are going to get spoiled. Most experts and hardcore fans recommend reading it after Book 8.5 (Beyond the Veil) or right before you dive into the final conclusion of the series.
Some people try to tandem read it, but that's a nightmare. The timeline jumps around too much. It’s better to treat it like a "greatest hits" album with some new tracks mixed in.
Is it Worth the Buy?
If you’re a Kindle Unlimited subscriber, it’s a no-brainer. If you’re buying the paperback, just know it’s about 360 pages of supplemental material.
The audio version has been a bit divisive. Bridget and Jake Bordeaux return to narrate, but some fans felt the "Lionel" voice was a bit much. However, hearing the "Savage" short story narrated is a highlight for many who missed the original anthology release.
Actionable Next Steps for Solarian Rebels
To get the most out of this collection without ruining your experience:
- Wait until the end: Do not open this book until you have at least finished Book 8. It contains spoilers for the final battle and the emotional fallout of the later books.
- Focus on the POVs: If you’re feeling "Lionel burnout," skip his intros. The meat of the book is in the alternate perspectives from Orion and Darius.
- Check the Map: The physical and ebook versions include a map of Solaria that helps clarify where some of these side-stories actually take place.
- Read Ruthless Boys First: If you haven't read the Ruthless Boys series, the "Night" chapter won't hit as hard. It’s a major "Easter Egg" moment that lands better when you know who the guys from Dark Fae are.
This book is essentially a love letter (interrupted by a villain's ego) to the fans who have stuck with the series through all the cliffhangers and heartbreak. It doesn't fix the trauma the authors put us through, but it sure helps bridge the gap.
