Sarah J. Maas has become a go-to choice for readers venturing into the world of books.
Her high fantasy novels, filled with captivating plots and heart-fluttering romance, can transform even the most reluctant reader into a professional bookworm.
As a best-selling author, Maas has gained international popularity for her three captivating series:
- A Court of Thorns and Roses: This series spans five thrilling books, weaving together magic, romance, and epic battles.
- Throne of Glass: With eight books in this epic fantasy saga, readers follow the journey of an assassin through treacherous courts and deadly challenges.
- Crescent City: In this urban fantasy trilogy, Maas introduces readers to a world where angels, shifters, and magic collide across three enthralling books.
Diving into Maas’s extensive bibliography can be overwhelming. Fear not! Here’s the ultimate guide to conquering Maas’s literary universe.
About the Author
Sarah J. Maas is a New York Times bestselling author whose books have been published in over 38 languages.
Maas burst onto the scene at the young age of 16.
Her debut novel, Throne of Glass, marked the beginning of an extraordinary journey. Throne of Glass introduces us to Celaena Sardothien, a fierce assassin navigating treachery, magic, and battles.
The saga stretches across several action-packed books, and Maas’s magic has woven its way beyond the written page and onto TikTok. Her series A Court of Thorns and Roses became a sensation, enchanting fans with fae romance, action, and war.
Five books in, and the excitement shows no signs of waning.
Where to begin
You could ask 10 different people the reading order of Sarah J. Maas’s books and receive 10 different answers.
After researching and scouring social media, I have compiled a list of the most popular reading orders for the series with f alternative paths so that you can maximize your reading experience.
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Remember – all the series are interconnected! So, how you read it is how you experience it!
Series Order
Whilst there is some debate on the order in which you should read her books, my recommendation, echoed by many, is to begin with the entire A Court of Thorns and Roses series.
1. A Court of Thorns and Roses
ACOTAR introduces you to Maas’s rich writing style and sets the stage for the intricate world-building and character development to come.
2. Throne of Glass
Some debate reading Throne of Glass first due to Maas’s juvenile writing in the first few books (she did begin the series at age 16) and the fact that it was published first.
But consider this: Would you prefer to dive into 8 books by an author you’ve already enjoyed or struggle through some of the 8 books initially?
My verdict: ACOTAR first!
But whatever you do, DO NOT read Crescent City first!!
3. Crescent City
You cannot read Crescent City without first reading A Court of Thorns and Roses—there are direct links between the two series.
If you have a bad memory, then it may be worth considering reading this series back-to-back before diving into Throne of Glass. You could also read A Court of Frost and Starlight and A Court of Silver Flames after TOG but before Crescent City.
I know it’s confusing!
ACOTAR reading order
The series follows a chronological timeline, so it is easy to pick up.
1. A Court of Thorns and Roses
Let’s talk about the spiciness factor. If you’re partial to passion, this book delivers.
By starting here, you’re stepping onto a bridge that connects three captivating sagas. Trust me, it’s worth the journey.
2. A Court of Mist and Fury
3. A Court of Wings and Ruin
4. A Court of Silver Flames
Think of ACOSF as the Christmas special! This novella is the perfect addition to the series, full of heart-warming friendship and romance.
5. A Court of Silver Flames
Throne of Glass reading order
When it comes to reading Sarah J. Maas’s series, Throne of Glass, there are a few different approaches you can take.
This is often where reader confusion arises, so let’s work through it together.
Chronological Order
Start with The Assassin’s Blade, which technically serves as a prequel to the series.
1. The Assassin’s Blade
This order prevents any spoilers or breaks in the plot.
Then proceed with the main series in the following order:
2. Throne of Glass
3. Crown of Midnight
4. Heir of Fire
5. Queen of Shadows
6. Empire of Storms
Empire of Storms and Tower of Dawn can be read in tandem with each other.
7. Tower of Dawn
8. Kingdom of Ash
Character Development Order
If you want to set yourself up for some serious emotional damage, consider this order:
- Throne of Glass
- Crown of Midnight
- The Assassin’s Blade
- Heir of Fire
- Queen of Shadows
- Empire of Storms
- Tower of Dawn
- Kingdom of Ash
This is the reading order that Sarah J. Maas suggests! Be prepared; you may have spoilers for The Assassin’s Blade throughout books 1-2.
You will get to know the main character before going back and learning her backstory. Think of it like watching Queen Charlotte after Bridgerton.
Release Date Order
Or why not try the order in which the books were published:
- Throne of Glass
- Crown of Midnight
- Heir of Fire
- The Assassin’s Blade
- Queen of Shadows
- Empire of Storms
- Tower of Dawn
- Kingdom of Ash
Bloomsbury Publishing recommends this reading order; however, many BookTokers have advised against it due to spoilers and a plot break.
Remember, there’s no wrong way to enjoy these tales!
What on earth is a tandem read?
Tandem reading means reading two books at the same time.
You may notice that I mentioned being able to read Empire of Storms and Tower of Dawn in tandem. The two books take place at the same time, with different characters from different continents.
It can be intimidating to approach the tandem read, so here is a go-to guide to help you on your journey.
Crescent City reading order
Like A Court of Thorns and Roses, Crescent City’s reading order is pretty much undisputed.
CC is a work in progress, with more books to come, but it currently stands as a trilogy and should be read in this order.
1. House of Earth and Blood
2. House of Sky and Breath
3. House of Flame and Shadow
Remember, whatever you do, read ACOTAR before CC! Both A Court of Thorns and Roses and Throne of Glass can be read as standalones if you wish!
Happy Reading!
