Lost (Layla Hagen) Books in Order

The Lost series, often called the Lost in Us books, is where Layla Hagen’s published career began. These connected novels follow a group of young adults whose lives intersect through friendship, business, and love, all while they are still learning how to live with the scars of their pasts.

The first book, Lost in Us, introduces Serena, a woman who has carefully rebuilt her life after trauma and heartbreak. When her long term boyfriend abruptly leaves, she is thrown back into old pain and coping mechanisms. A reckless night out brings her face to face with James, a self made Silicon Valley entrepreneur who thrives on risk and casual connections. Their relationship starts as the emotional equivalent of a rebound and slowly grows into something much deeper, forcing both of them to examine the fears they have been avoiding.

Found in Us shifts focus to Jessica, a woman who has sworn off love after being burned one too many times. She meets Parker Blakesley, a powerful businessman who is equally wary of emotional entanglements. Their attraction is undeniable, but past betrayals make them question whether they can trust each other or themselves. The book leans into the tension between desire and self protection, and shows how healing sometimes means allowing someone to see the parts of you you would rather hide.

In Caught in Us, Dani is determined to stick to her carefully mapped out future and avoid bad boys at all costs. Damon, on the other hand, wears the bad boy label like armor over a deeply wounded core. As they grow closer, Dani uncovers the secrets he hides behind his arrogance, and their reckless, intense connection pushes both of them to confront pain they have tried to outrun.

Across the trilogy, Hagen explores themes of forgiveness, self worth, and the way past trauma can warp your idea of what you deserve. The tone is a little moodier than her later family series, with more emphasis on internal battles and the messy transition from youth into full adulthood. Careers are important here too, especially in the tech and business worlds, but the heart of each book is emotional growth.

While each novel can be read on its own, there are crossovers and cameos that reward reading in order. Side characters become main characters, friendships deepen, and you get to watch a loose knit group of people slowly become a found family. If you enjoy contemporary romance that digs into darker backstories while still delivering satisfying happy endings, the Lost series is a strong place to start.