Sarah J. A fan who has revisited the extended universe multiple times recommends starting with A Court of Thorns and Roses, citing its easier-to-understand world building and tone that is indicative of Maas’s writing style.
The A Court of Thorns and Roses series can be broken down into two parts for the most impact, with the first part including the first three books: A Court of Thorns and Roses, A Court of Mist and Fury, and A Court of Wings and Ruin. These books introduce readers to Feyre Archeron and her journey in the fairie area of Prythian.
A Court of Thorns and Roses is a romantasy novel that introduces Feyre, a human woman who agrees to live in Prythian to save her family. The second book, A Court of Mist and Fury, borrows from the myth of Hades and Persephone as Feyre makes good on a bargain with Rhysand, High Lord of the Night Court.
A Court of Wings and Ruin is the third book in the series and the last with Feyre as the only main character. After completing this book, readers can jump into the Throne of Glass series, which provides insight into the mythology and history of the SJM universe.
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Throne of Glass Series Begins
The Throne of Glass series has eight books total, but one is a collection of five prequel novellas. Some people will tell you to start with the Throne of Glass series, and they’d be right if you prefer action over romance. The series follows Celaena’s journey as she competes in a deadly tournament and uncovers secrets about her past.
However, the recommended order starts with Throne of Glass, followed by Crown of Midnight, The Assassin’s Blade, Heir of Fire, Queen of Shadows, Empire of Storms, Tower of Dawn, and Kingdom of Ash.
Empire of Storms is the first book in the TOG series to drop the YA approach for more adult themes. Kingdom of Ash is an epic finale, full of high-stakes drama and emotional scenes.
After completing the Throne of Glass series, readers can return to the A Court of Thorns and Roses series, starting with A Court of Frost and Starlight, a short novella that takes place over the Winter Solstice. This is followed by A Court of Silver Flames, which centers on Nesta Archeron and her mate.
Crescent City Series Overview
The Crescent City series, which includes House of Earth and Blood, House of Sky and Breath, and House of Flame and Shadow, can be started last, as it has dense world building and is not yet complete. The series follows half-fae, half-human Bryce Quinlan as she investigates a murder and works through the complexities of Crescent City.
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With the release of A Court of Splintered Harmony, the latest book in the A Court of Thorns and Roses series, fans are revisiting the series and catching up on the latest developments. The book features multiple character POVs, including Azriel, Feyre, Nesta, Cassian, Lucien, and Mor, and is the first part of The Valkyrie Cycle.
A Court of Splintered Harmony was released on October 27, and the next book in the series, A Court of Forgotten Melody, is scheduled for publication on January 12. An eighth book, which will feature movement IV of The Valkyrie Cycle, is also in the works but does not have an official release date yet, with the author having confirmed that it will come after ACOTAR books six and seven.
Mature Themes Ahead
Notably, this book is considered the most mature Sarah J. Maas book, so readers should be aware of the content.
House of Sky and Breath has a major reveal that would not have the same impact if read before the A Court of Thorns and Roses series. Additionally, the world building in Crescent City is dense, making it easier to understand if readers are already familiar with Sarah J. Maas’s writing style and use of multiple character POVs.
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