I’ve been obsessed with reading fantasy for as long as I can remember. My childhood bookshelf was filled with worn copies of Percy Jackson and the Olympians. I dreamt of attending Hogwarts and visiting Narnia. I even had a pin on my backpack with my Camp Half-Blood cabin on it. Like all phases, I expected to eventually grow out of it. But even as my reading taste matured, I still found myself longing for that magical fantasy novel. It was this search that led me to the Sarah J. Maas universe.
If you know anything about the fantasy genre, you probably know who Sarah J. Maas is. The bestselling author of 16 novels, Maas’s stories feature breathtaking magical worlds, swoon-worthy love interests, and—most importantly—strong female main characters you’ll root for from page one. Her literary world is complex and constantly growing, so much so that many readers feel too overwhelmed to pick up just one of her (very long) novels. This was only enhanced by Maas’s recent announcement: the sixth and seventh ACOTAR (A Court of Thorns and Roses) novels come out in October 2026 and January 2027, respectively.
For busy moms, committing to three series that span 18 novels sounds totally unrealistic. That’s where I come in. As a certified fantasy connoisseur who worships the ground Maas walks on, I’ve compiled a detailed step-by-step guide on how to read all 16 of Maas’s novels without overwhelming yourself. From reading order to speed, this guide has everything you’ll need to dive headfirst into the Sarah J. Maas universe. After all, if there was ever a time to start, it’s now.
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Who is Sarah J. Maas?
If there’s any author who is BookTok royalty, it’s Sarah J. Maas. Since her debut in 2012, the fantasy writer has revolutionized her genre, thrusting female characters and readers into a space that has historically been male-dominated. Her novels span three series: Throne of Glass, Crescent City, and A Court of Thorns and Roses—her most popular series by far. As of 2026, her books have sold over 75 million copies and have inspired a passionate fanbase.
What sets Maas’s writing apart is her ability to blend high-stakes fantasy plots with heartwarming, authentic romance. When I crack open a Sarah J. Maas novel, I know I’m going to get a healthy dose of complex magic systems and battles to the death, but I’m also going to get a swoon-worthy romantic plot for the ages—the best of both worlds. Maas’s unique ability to usher once purely romance readers into the world of fantasy is what makes her such an excellent entry-level author for readers looking to try out the genre. That being said, there’s a certain art to navigating her growing list of novels.
The best reading order for the Sarah J. Maas Universe
If you want to start a fight on the internet, tell a fantasy reader what order they should Sarah J. Maas’ books. Fans have strong opinions, to say the least—but don’t fret. Each of Maas’ three series are independent stories and can be read as you wish. However, as is the case with most of her books, nothing is ever simple. With crossovers and easter eggs abundant, here is my recommended reading order to get the most out of ACOTAR, Throne of Glass, and the rest of Maas’ books.
Start with ACOTAR
Feyre is a huntress determined to feed her family. But when a reckless kill comes with unexpected consequences, she must journey to the alluring world of the Fae. There, she’ll face monsters, demons, and a fate beyond anything she could have imagined.
This is a pretty universal belief across the Sarah J. Maas fandom. While ACOTAR is a fantasy series, the plot is very romance-heavy and generally easier to follow than her other series. Feyre, our female main character, is whisked away from her family and into the Fae world when she accidentally murders a Fae man. What follows is a five-book series filled with court politics, breathtaking magic, and a romance that will stay with you forever. Trust me—you’ll be hooked.
If there’s any series you should prioritize on this list, it’s this one—the sixth and seventh ACOTAR books are only months away from hitting shelves. Here’s the series order:
- A Court of Thorns and Roses
- A Court of Mist and Fury
- A Court of Wings and Ruin
- A Court of Frost and Starlight
- A Court of Silver Flames
ACOTAR six and seven come out October 27, 2026, and January 12, 2027, respectively. These new releases should be read after you’ve completed the entire ACOTAR series. It’s also preferable (but not required) to read The Crescent City series before ACOTAR six and seven come out, due to crossovers with different characters. You can preorder both titles now:
Readers will get to return to the courts of Prythian in the sixth installment of this bestselling series! Synopsis and cover to be revealed soon.
Readers will get to return to the courts of Prythian in the seventh installment of this bestselling series! Synopsis and cover to be revealed soon.
Some notes here—A Court of Frost and Starlight is a 272-page, multi-POV novella that bridges the events of the third and fifth novels. It’s something of a holiday novel, one could say, and though lacking substance, shouldn’t be skipped. You’ll need info from its story to move into A Court of Silver Flames. Think of it as a little brain break before reading the rest of the series.
Is A Court of Silver Flames any good?
A Court of Silver Flames, the series’ fifth installment, is easily Sarah J. Maas’ most controversial title. For context, the first three ACOTAR books take place from Feyre’s perspective, while A Court of Silver Flames is all about Nesta, Feyre’s moody, often malicious older sister. You’re not alone if you finish the first four books and think to yourself, “Why in the world would I want to read about her?” But the magic of A Court of Silver Flames is realizing just how wrong you are—and watching Nesta blossom into a character you’ll soon love.
Then move onto Throne of Glass
In a land void of magic, assassin Celaena Sardothien is pulled from the salt mines and summoned to the King’s castle. But she has not come to kill him—she intends to win her freedom by defeating twenty three other warriors, thieves, and murderers. Yet, as dark forces gather on the horizon, her trials grow more challenging. Soon, Celaena will have to fight to protect herself and everything she holds dear.
I find it difficult to sum up just how much this series means to me in a few sentences. Despite ACOTAR getting all the buzz, I believe that Throne of Glass is Maas’s best work by far. The eight-book fantasy series follows deadly assassin Celaena Sardothien in a world where magic has been banished. Though the start can feel slow, the payoff is beyond worth it. I mean it when I say I would do anything to read this series for the first time again.
The reading order here is a little bit more complicated (and controversial). Throne of Glass includes a set of prequel novellas titled The Assassin’s Blade. You can read this book either first, third, or fourth, so long as you read it before the fifth book, Queen of Shadows. However, I do believe some reading orders are superior to others. Here’s my recommendation:
- Throne of Glass
- Crown of Midnight
- The Assassin’s Blade (set of prequel novellas)
- Heir of Fire
- Queen of Shadows
- Empire of Storms
- Tower of Dawn
- Kingdom of Ash
By reading The Assassin’s Blade third, I believe the stories deliver maximum emotional effect, especially when combined with everything we’ve learned thus far about our female main character. Be warned—this book is sad. Like, crying in my bed at 2 a.m. sad, but it’s a small price to pay for what the rest of the series has to offer.
Should I tandem read?
The other point to consider when reading Throne of Glass is whether or not to tandem read Empire of Storms and Tower of Dawn, the sixth and seventh books in the series. These are two separate novels that focus on different sets of characters, but that take place simultaneously. If you want, these novels can be read in a guided order that alternates between books, offering more clarity on the stories’ connections and timelines. I did the tandem read, and while it has its benefits, for a reader just getting started with fantasy—particularly busy moms with a lot on their plate already—I’d stick to reading the two books independently. Both stories have a lot to offer and will move you in different ways. Just beware of the cliffhanger at the end of Empire of Storms—it’s a brutal one.
Finally, read Crescent City
Bryce Quinlan used to have everything she could want—a good job, a loving group of friends—until a senseless crime stole it all from her. When the violence starts up again, Bryce is forced to step back into the bustling streets of Crescent City and avenge her loved ones, once and for all. To succeed, she’ll need the help of Hunt Athalar, a fallen angel desperate to win his freedom. Together, the pair will discover what secrets lurk in the underbelly of their home.
Maas’s most recent addition to her literary world, Crescent City, is an adult urban fantasy series that takes place in the bustling city of Lunathion. Unlike Maas’s other series, the characters of Crescent City have all the modern technology we do—cars, phones, weapons—making their world that much more complex. The story follows half-human, half-Fae Bryce Quinlan as she faces her family (and destiny) once and for all.
Thus far, there are only three novels in the Crescent City series, so the reading order is pretty self-explanatory:
- House of Earth and Blood
- House of Sky and Breath
- House of Flame and Shadow
These books are long and complex. Try your best not to be scared off by the multitude of magical creatures and government hierarchies—you don’t need to remember it all. Just focus on Bryce’s journey. Even long after finishing the third book, it’s her character arc that has stuck with me most. In fact, I’d venture to say that the first Crescent City book, House of Earth and Blood, is some of Maas’s best work. The end had me feeling more than just a little teary-eyed.
One other important note here: while readers should feel free to decide whether to read the ACOTAR series or Throne of Glass first, Crescent City should absolutely be the final Sarah J. Maas series you read. I won’t say too much, but there are some crossovers from previous series that take place in the final book, none of which will make any sense if you haven’t already read the previous works. Even if you take none of my earlier advice, make sure to leave this series for last. I would also recommend getting through this series before you start ACOTAR six and seven. Crossovers from Crescent City will no doubt play a role in the stories yet to unfold.
More tips for reading Sarah J. Maas books
1. Take breaks between series
I started the Sarah J. Maas universe while I was a college student, and it was hard not to get overwhelmed by the pure volume of novels while also balancing exams, papers, and a packed class schedule. I’m sure busy moms will be able to relate to this feeling. One thing I did to alleviate the stress was to strategically space out each series.
I’d recommend reading the first three ACOTAR books—a complete trilogy on their own—and then stepping away from the fantasy world for a week or two. Once your head is cleared, return to read A Court of Frost and Starlight and A Court of Silver Flames, a welcome pace change in the series. As for Throne of Glass, read through Heir of Fire, then take a beat before heading into the latter half of the series. This is where things really pick up. At that point, you won’t be able to put the books down.
2. Listen to the audiobooks—especially Throne of Glass
As much as we wish it did, life doesn’t stop for a long book series. If you find yourself engrossed in the Sarah J. Maas universe while also balancing school pickup and drop off, meal prep, and family holidays, never fear. Audiobooks are excellent tools for multitasking, and these are ones you certainly won’t want to miss. The Throne of Glass audiobooks, in particular, add a level of emotion and intrigue that makes the reading experience that much more exciting. I read the series first, then went back and listened to some of my favorite scenes. The narrator is excellent with inflections and emotional standoffs. I’ve even begun hearing her voice when I read the books.
I’ll also add that the graphic audiobooks for Throne of Glass are currently in production, and will include different actors for each character, cinematic music, and various sound effects. The first Throne of Glass book’s graphic audio is scheduled for release on August, 28, 2026. If you’re in the midst of the series, then I’d recommend listening.
3. Give yourself time to get into the series before you “DNF”
I’m particularly guilty of “DNF-ing” (not finishing) a book simply because it didn’t hook me. I almost didn’t finish the first Crescent City book because the world-building was so overwhelming. But having reached the end of Maas’s written work, I’m grateful I didn’t let the first few chapters of a series scare me off. While the buildup for a Sarah J. Maas novel can feel like information overload, the payoff will have you pondering how you ever considered putting it down.
This is especially true for Throne of Glass. The first few books in the series were Maas’s first published works, and at times, her writing betrays her inexperience. Yet, I cannot emphasize enough: do not let this deter you. By the third and fourth book, the beauty of the story will start to reveal itself to you, and the latter half of the series will change your life—no, I’m not exaggerating.
4. Keep an eye out for easter eggs
As you make your way through the Sarah J. Maas universe, connections will start to appear. While I won’t get into too many details, one of the most rewarding aspects of reading the author’s series is noticing these patterns as they emerge. By the time you read Crescent City, the easter eggs and crossovers will have you gaping at your bedroom wall, questioning how you didn’t see it before. Use this spoiler-free warning as motivation to keep reading—just because you finish a series doesn’t mean you’ll never see those characters again.
5. Expect romance, but also fantasy
One of the biggest misconceptions about Sarah J. Maas’ novels is that they are purely steamy romances. While Maas definitely isn’t afraid to include a sex scene where it’s called for, her series are fantasy first. ACOTAR—her most romance-centered series—only includes a handful of prominent steamy scenes in each novel, despite the internet hyping it up as one of the smuttiest novels ever. Throne of Glass, on the other hand, doesn’t feature any explicit scenes until over halfway through the series.
This doesn’t mean the romance in these stories is any less magical. In fact, I’d say the slow burn only adds to the payoff for the reader, but be warned: Maas’s stories are not your typical romance novels. There’s as much political intrigue and magic as there is romance.
Rebecca Smith, Editorial Intern
As editorial intern, Rebecca works with The Everymom team on updating existing content, photo sourcing, pitching original articles, and more. She’s passionate about creating authentic and diverse online content, and is thrilled to help women of all ages feel represented by contributing to The Everymom.
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Source link: https://theeverymom.com/acotar-series/ by Rebecca Smith at theeverymom.com