If you’re searching for Sarah J. Maas books in order, you’re probably trying to figure out where to begin with her fantasy novels, which books belong together, and whether you need to read all three series to understand their connections. Sarah J. Maas has created three major fantasy series: A Court of Thorns and Roses (ACOTAR), Throne of Glass, and Crescent City. Each offers a different experience, from romantic faerie kingdoms to epic fantasy adventures and modern supernatural mysteries.
The good news is that you can start with whichever series interests you most. ACOTAR is a great choice for readers who enjoy romantasy and fae courts, while Throne of Glass suits those who prefer expansive world-building and character development. Crescent City is ideal for readers who like urban fantasy, mystery, and supernatural politics.
As of November 2026, there are 17 published books across these three series, including novellas and prequel collections. Maas has also written a separate DC novel, Catwoman: Soulstealer. Her newest ACOTAR installment, A Court of Splintered Harmony, was released on October 27, 2026, and the next book, A Court of Forgotten Melody, is scheduled for January 12, 2027.
This guide covers every series in reading order, publication timelines, chronological reading options, the debated placement of The Assassin’s Blade, and the connections between the three fantasy worlds.
Sarah J. Maas Books in Order: Quick Reading Guide
Sarah J. Maas’s three main fantasy series have separate storylines, characters, and fictional settings. You don’t have to read them in one particular order, but following the correct sequence within each series will help you understand character development and major events.
Here is a quick overview of all Sarah J. Maas books in order.
| Series | Published books | First book | Genre and reading experience |
|---|---|---|---|
| Throne of Glass | 8 | Throne of Glass | Epic fantasy, magic, adventure |
| A Court of Thorns and Roses | 6 | A Court of Thorns and Roses | Romantasy, fae courts, relationships |
| Crescent City | 3 | House of Earth and Blood | Urban fantasy, mystery, romance |
The counts reflect published installments as of November 12, 2026. The ACOTAR count includes A Court of Frost and Starlight, a novella, and A Court of Splintered Harmony, released in October 2026. The upcoming seventh installment is not included.
The Recommended Starting Point for Beginners
If you’re new to Sarah J. Maas, choose your first book based on the type of fantasy you enjoy:
- For romantasy: Start with A Court of Thorns and Roses. It introduces readers to fae courts, magical kingdoms, romantic relationships, and political intrigue.
- For epic fantasy: Start with Throne of Glass. It offers a longer journey involving assassins, ancient magic, kingdoms, and extensive character development.
- For urban fantasy: Start with House of Earth and Blood. Its modern supernatural setting combines mystery, romance, and political conflict.
Sarah J. Maas’s official reading guide confirms that readers can start with the first book in any of her three series. Bloomsbury also recommends considering ACOTAR before Crescent City if you want a more rewarding experience with the crossover material.
Which Sarah J. Maas Series Should You Read First?
Choosing between ACOTAR, Throne of Glass, and Crescent City can be difficult because all three combine fantasy, romance, magic, and memorable characters. However, their storytelling styles and settings are quite different.
A Court of Thorns and Roses: Best for Fantasy Romance
ACOTAR is an excellent starting point if you enjoy romantic fantasy with magical creatures, complicated relationships, and powerful faerie courts.
The series follows Feyre Archeron, whose life changes after she becomes involved with the Fae. Its world includes different courts, powerful rulers, magical abilities, political rivalries, and dangerous alliances.
Readers who enjoy enemies-to-lovers romance, slow-burn relationships, emotional character development, and fantasy settings will likely appreciate this series.
Throne of Glass: Best for Epic Fantasy
Throne of Glass is a better choice if you want a larger fantasy adventure with an expanding cast of characters and a detailed fictional world.
The story follows Celaena Sardothien, an assassin whose personal journey becomes connected to ancient magic, political struggles, and the future of several kingdoms.
The series gradually expands beyond its initial competition-based storyline into a much larger conflict. Its strongest appeal lies in character growth, found family, loyalty, magical history, and large-scale battles.
Crescent City: Best for Urban Fantasy and Mystery
Crescent City offers a different experience because it combines supernatural fantasy with a modern city setting.
The story follows Bryce Quinlan, a half-human, half-Fae woman living in Midgard. Murder investigations, supernatural politics, complicated relationships, and powerful magical beings all contribute to the storyline.
Readers who enjoy urban fantasy, crime mysteries, angels, Fae, and contemporary environments may find this series particularly interesting.
Comparing the Three Sarah J. Maas Series
| Feature | ACOTAR | Throne of Glass | Crescent City |
|---|---|---|---|
| Setting | Magical faerie realms | Fantasy kingdoms | Modern supernatural city |
| Main character | Feyre Archeron | Celaena Sardothien | Bryce Quinlan |
| Main appeal | Fantasy romance | Epic fantasy adventure | Mystery and urban fantasy |
| Romance | Prominent | Important throughout | Prominent |
| World-building | Fae courts and territories | Kingdoms and ancient magic | Supernatural society and politics |
| Best for | Romantasy readers | Epic fantasy fans | Urban fantasy readers |
My recommendation: Begin with ACOTAR if romance is your main interest. Choose Throne of Glass if you prefer a longer fantasy journey. If you plan to explore the connections between Maas’s worlds, reading ACOTAR before Crescent City is a sensible approach.
A Court of Thorns and Roses (ACOTAR) Books in Order
The A Court of Thorns and Roses series is one of Sarah J. Maas’s best-known romantasy works. It follows Feyre Archeron as she enters the world of the Fae, where powerful courts, ancient rivalries, dangerous magic, and complicated relationships shape her future.
The correct ACOTAR reading order follows publication order. As of November 2026, six installments have been published, including the newest 2026 release. A seventh installment is scheduled for January 2027.
1. A Court of Thorns and Roses (2015)
The first book introduces Feyre Archeron, a young huntress who struggles to provide for her family. After killing a wolf in the forest, she discovers that her actions have consequences beyond the human world.
She is taken to Prythian, a magical land inhabited by powerful Fae. As she becomes familiar with its courts and inhabitants, she discovers that the world is more complicated and dangerous than she originally imagined.
This novel establishes the setting, central characters, romantic elements, and magical conflicts that shape the rest of the series.
- Publication year: 2015
- Format: Main novel
- Reading position: Book 1
2. A Court of Mist and Fury (2016)
The second installment follows Feyre as she deals with the emotional consequences of the first book. Her understanding of herself, her relationships, and the Fae world begins to change.
The story introduces more of Prythian’s political structure and expands the role of the Night Court. Readers also discover new characters, different perspectives on power, and deeper questions about freedom and trust.
It develops the romance and emotional conflicts while expanding the fantasy world.
- Publication year: 2016
- Format: Main novel
- Reading position: Book 2
3. A Court of Wings and Ruin (2017)
Political tensions and dangerous alliances bring Prythian closer to a major conflict. Feyre must navigate the complicated relationships between the courts while dealing with the consequences of earlier decisions.
The story develops several important character relationships and brings together the central conflicts established in the previous books.
Readers who enjoy political intrigue, magical battles, and complicated alliances will find this installment particularly engaging.
- Publication year: 2017
- Format: Main novel
- Reading position: Book 3
4. A Court of Frost and Starlight (2018)
Unlike the first three full-length novels, A Court of Frost and Starlight is a shorter novella.
It takes place after the events of the war and explores how the characters adjust to life after major conflict. The story has a quieter atmosphere, focusing more on relationships, recovery, family, and the challenges of rebuilding.
Although it doesn’t have the same large-scale conflict as the earlier novels, it provides useful context before the next installment.
- Publication year: 2018
- Format: Novella
- Reading position: Book 4
5. A Court of Silver Flames (2021)
This installment shifts the focus toward Nesta Archeron, Feyre’s sister, and Cassian.
Nesta has struggled with the consequences of earlier events, and her journey involves difficult personal challenges, complicated relationships, and the process of rebuilding her confidence.
The story explores emotional recovery, friendship, physical training, self-acceptance, and the importance of accepting support from others.
It also expands the series by introducing additional characters and developments within the Night Court.
- Publication year: 2021
- Format: Main novel
- Reading position: Book 5
6. A Court of Splintered Harmony (2026)
A Court of Splintered Harmony is the sixth installment in the ACOTAR series and the first part of the Valkyrie Cycle.
Published on October 27, 2026, the novel returns readers to Prythian, where the consequences of the Hybern War continue to affect the different courts.
According to Bloomsbury’s official synopsis, Koschei the Deathless is becoming an increasingly dangerous threat. The Night Court must deal with political divisions, betrayals, and the difficulty of rebuilding alliances while facing the danger spreading across the Fae territories.
The book continues the wider story after A Court of Silver Flames and is an essential addition to the updated ACOTAR reading order.
- Publication date: October 27, 2026
- Format: Main novel
- Reading position: Book 6
- Status: Published
7. A Court of Forgotten Melody (2027)
A Court of Forgotten Melody is the seventh ACOTAR installment and the continuation of the Valkyrie Cycle.
Bloomsbury has confirmed January 12, 2027, as its publication date. The publisher identifies it as Movements II and III of the Valkyrie Cycle.
Its official tagline is “What was lost will be reclaimed.” The book continues the storyline introduced in A Court of Splintered Harmony.
As of November 12, 2026, it is officially announced but has not yet been released.
- Scheduled publication: January 12, 2027
- Format: Main novel
- Reading position: Book 7
- Status: Upcoming
Important: Some older ACOTAR reading guides still list only five installments. Those guides need updating to include A Court of Splintered Harmony. Keep A Court of Forgotten Melody marked as upcoming until its release.
Throne of Glass Books in Order
Throne of Glass is an epic fantasy series following Celaena Sardothien, a highly skilled assassin whose journey becomes connected to the fate of kingdoms and the return of ancient magic.
The series contains eight published books when The Assassin’s Blade is included. It combines political conflict, magical discoveries, character development, romance, friendship, and large-scale fantasy storytelling.
Throne of Glass Reading Order
Sarah J. Maas’s official website recommends reading the books in the following sequence:
| Order | Book title | Publication year |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Throne of Glass | 2012 |
| 2 | Crown of Midnight | 2013 |
| 3 | The Assassin’s Blade | 2014 |
| 4 | Heir of Fire | 2014 |
| 5 | Queen of Shadows | 2015 |
| 6 | Empire of Storms | 2016 |
| 7 | Tower of Dawn | 2017 |
| 8 | Kingdom of Ash | 2018 |
1. Throne of Glass (2012)
Celaena Sardothien is an imprisoned assassin who receives an opportunity to earn her freedom. She must compete against other fighters for the position of the king’s champion.
However, the competition becomes increasingly dangerous as strange events begin unfolding within the castle. Celaena discovers that the kingdom holds secrets that extend beyond the competition itself.
The first novel introduces the main character, the kingdom’s political environment, and the fantasy world that expands throughout the series.
2. Crown of Midnight (2013)
After becoming the king’s champion, Celaena faces responsibilities that make her position increasingly complicated.
As she investigates the secrets surrounding the throne, she begins uncovering information that changes her understanding of the kingdom and the people around her.
The second book develops the central mysteries and raises the emotional stakes.
3. The Assassin’s Blade (2014)
The Assassin’s Blade is a collection of five prequel novellas exploring Celaena’s life before the events of Throne of Glass.
The stories introduce earlier missions, relationships, important characters, and experiences that help explain her personality and motivations.
Although the events happen before the first novel, the collected book was published in 2014, after Crown of Midnight.
4. Heir of Fire (2014)
In Heir of Fire, Celaena faces a difficult period of personal change. She encounters new characters, explores unfamiliar parts of the fantasy world, and learns more about her abilities and history.
The novel expands the world-building considerably, introducing magical elements and conflicts that become important in the later installments.
5. Queen of Shadows (2015)
Celaena returns with a clearer sense of purpose and becomes involved in a dangerous effort to challenge the forces controlling her kingdom.
Several important characters and storylines come together as political tensions grow.
This installment develops the conflict established in the earlier novels and moves the series toward a much larger confrontation.
6. Empire of Storms (2016)
The stakes become increasingly high as different kingdoms and powerful characters become involved in the approaching conflict.
Alliances, relationships, and long-term plans are tested. The novel also contains events that overlap with the timeline of Tower of Dawn.
7. Tower of Dawn (2017)
Tower of Dawn shifts attention toward Chaol Westfall and his journey to the Southern Continent.
While seeking healing, Chaol becomes involved in new political developments and discovers information that could affect the wider conflict.
Although it follows a different group of characters, the novel contains important developments for the overall series. It should not be treated as an optional spin-off.
8. Kingdom of Ash (2018)
The final installment brings the major storylines together as the characters face the consequences of years of conflict.
Battles, sacrifices, difficult decisions, and personal relationships all contribute to the conclusion.
Kingdom of Ash provides the main resolution to Celaena’s journey and the wider conflict that develops throughout the series.
Three Common Throne of Glass Reading Approaches
Readers often debate the best order because The Assassin’s Blade is a prequel collection. Another discussion involves reading Empire of Storms and Tower of Dawn together.
There are three approaches worth understanding:
| Reading approach | Assassin’s Blade placement | Best suited to |
|---|---|---|
| Publication order | Third | First-time readers |
| Chronological order | First | Readers who prefer story timeline |
| Emotional-impact variation | Often after Heir of Fire | Readers who prefer to delay the prequel |
The third option is a fan-preferred variation rather than an officially established reading order. Sarah J. Maas’s official recommendation is the publication sequence listed above.
Should You Read The Assassin’s Blade First?
This is one of the most debated questions among Throne of Glass readers.
There are two main approaches, and both offer a different experience.
Option 1: Read The Assassin’s Blade first
Because the prequel stories take place before Throne of Glass, reading them first allows you to understand Celaena’s background before entering the main storyline.
Advantages include:
- Learning about her earlier experiences immediately.
- Meeting important supporting characters sooner.
- Following the fictional timeline without jumping backward.
- Understanding some of the events that shaped her personality.
However, some readers prefer to meet Celaena in the main novel before learning about her past.
Option 2: Read The Assassin’s Blade after Crown of Midnight
This is the order recommended by Sarah J. Maas.
Readers first become familiar with Celaena and the central storyline. After Crown of Midnight, the prequel collection provides additional context about her earlier experiences.
Advantages include:
- Building familiarity with the main characters first.
- Understanding the prequel with more context.
- Discovering how earlier experiences influence later events.
- Following the author’s preferred reading sequence.
Bloomsbury also recommends reading the prequel after Crown of Midnight and before Heir of Fire.
My recommendation for first-time readers: Follow the author’s publication order. Read Throne of Glass, then Crown of Midnight, followed by The Assassin’s Blade. This lets you become familiar with the main story before exploring Celaena’s past.
Throne of Glass Tandem Read: Empire of Storms and Tower of Dawn
The tandem read is another popular reading approach within the Throne of Glass community.
A tandem read means reading two books at the same time by alternating between their chapters according to a specific reading guide.
The two books involved are Empire of Storms and Tower of Dawn.
Why do readers tandem read these books?
Both novels cover overlapping periods in the fictional timeline. However, they follow different groups of characters and take place in different locations.
Reading them together allows readers to experience the parallel storylines as they unfold rather than completing one before returning to the other.
Benefits of tandem reading include:
- Following events happening in different locations.
- Maintaining a closer connection between the two timelines.
- Experiencing different character groups and storylines together.
- Moving into the final book with both stories fresh in mind.
Is tandem reading necessary?
No. It is an optional fan-created approach, not an official requirement.
Bloomsbury recommends publication order because reading Tower of Dawn before Empire of Storms can reveal information from the latter. Some readers also prefer experiencing each novel as a complete story.
If you want a chapter-by-chapter sequence, follow our Throne of Glass Tandem Read Guide.
Crescent City Books in Order
Crescent City is Sarah J. Maas’s urban fantasy series. Unlike the medieval-inspired environments of ACOTAR and Throne of Glass, its story takes place in a modern supernatural world called Midgard.
The series follows Bryce Quinlan, a half-human, half-Fae character whose life changes after a devastating event. The storyline combines murder mystery, romance, supernatural politics, and larger fantasy conflicts.
There are three published books.
1. House of Earth and Blood (2020)
The first novel introduces Bryce Quinlan and the supernatural world of Midgard.
After people close to her are murdered, Bryce becomes involved in an investigation that reveals deeper dangers within the city.
She works with Hunt Athalar, a fallen angel whose freedom becomes connected to the investigation. Together, they uncover secrets involving powerful supernatural forces.
The book combines crime investigation, emotional relationships, fantasy world-building, and romantic elements.
- Publication date: March 3, 2020
- Format: Main novel
- Reading position: Book 1
2. House of Sky and Breath (2022)
The second installment continues Bryce’s story as political tensions grow and powerful forces threaten the stability of Midgard.
Bryce, Hunt, and their friends become involved in a wider struggle involving rebellion, freedom, and the systems controlling their world.
The novel expands the supernatural politics introduced in the first book and develops the relationships between the central characters.
- Publication date: February 15, 2022
- Format: Main novel
- Reading position: Book 2
3. House of Flame and Shadow (2024)
The third Crescent City novel continues directly from the developments of the previous installment.
Bryce finds herself in unfamiliar surroundings and must find a way home, while Hunt faces another dangerous situation.
The story expands the fantasy elements and introduces major developments that are particularly important for readers interested in the wider connections between Sarah J. Maas’s fictional worlds.
- Publication date: January 30, 2024
- Format: Main novel
- Reading position: Book 3
Should You Read ACOTAR Before Crescent City?
You can technically read Crescent City first because it introduces its own setting, characters, and central conflict.
However, there is a good reason to read ACOTAR beforehand.
The second Crescent City book introduces major crossover developments involving another world in Maas’s fiction. Readers familiar with ACOTAR are therefore better prepared to understand the significance of those events.
Bloomsbury confirms that the three series can be read independently, but the Crescent City experience may be more rewarding after reading ACOTAR.
My recommendation: Complete ACOTAR before starting Crescent City if you want the fullest experience of the crossover storyline.
Sarah J. Maas Books in Publication Order
If you want to understand how Sarah J. Maas developed her fantasy worlds over time, reading her books by publication date is another useful approach.
Publication order combines books from all three major series and her separate DC novel.
The following list uses the original publication year of each collected book or novel, rather than the dates of later editions and reprints.
| Publication year | Book title | Series |
|---|---|---|
| 2012 | Throne of Glass | Throne of Glass |
| 2013 | Crown of Midnight | Throne of Glass |
| 2014 | The Assassin’s Blade | Throne of Glass |
| 2014 | Heir of Fire | Throne of Glass |
| 2015 | A Court of Thorns and Roses | ACOTAR |
| 2015 | Queen of Shadows | Throne of Glass |
| 2016 | A Court of Mist and Fury | ACOTAR |
| 2016 | Empire of Storms | Throne of Glass |
| 2017 | A Court of Wings and Ruin | ACOTAR |
| 2017 | Tower of Dawn | Throne of Glass |
| 2018 | A Court of Frost and Starlight | ACOTAR |
| 2018 | Catwoman: Soulstealer | DC Icons |
| 2018 | Kingdom of Ash | Throne of Glass |
| 2020 | House of Earth and Blood | Crescent City |
| 2021 | A Court of Silver Flames | ACOTAR |
| 2022 | House of Sky and Breath | Crescent City |
| 2024 | House of Flame and Shadow | Crescent City |
| 2026 | A Court of Splintered Harmony | ACOTAR |
The list includes The Assassin’s Blade as one collected book containing five prequel novellas. The individual stories had earlier digital publication histories, so they should not be counted as five additional collected books.
Catwoman: Soulstealer is a separate DC Icons novel rather than part of her three main fantasy series.
As of November 2026, this gives readers 17 published books across the three main series, or 18 book-length fiction works when the separate DC novel is included.
A Court of Forgotten Melody is not included because it is scheduled for January 2027.
Should You Read All Her Books in Publication Order?
You can, but you don’t have to.
Publication order is useful if you want to understand how Maas’s writing and world-building developed over time. However, switching between three different fictional worlds can interrupt the momentum of an individual series.
For most readers, completing one series before moving to another is a more enjoyable approach.
Sarah J. Maas Books in Chronological Order
Publication order and chronological order are not necessarily the same.
Publication order refers to when a book was released. Chronological order refers to when its events happen within the fictional timeline.
This distinction is particularly important when reading Throne of Glass because The Assassin’s Blade takes place before the first novel.
Throne of Glass Chronological Order
If you want to experience Celaena’s story from the earliest events, start with the prequel collection.
- The Assassin’s Blade
- Throne of Glass
- Crown of Midnight
- Heir of Fire
- Queen of Shadows
- Empire of Storms
- Tower of Dawn
- Kingdom of Ash
This is a broad chronological reading sequence, with the prequel placed before the main novels.
ACOTAR Chronological Order
For ACOTAR, the publication sequence also provides the recommended reading sequence.
- 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
- A Court of Splintered Harmony
- A Court of Forgotten Melody (upcoming)
The seventh installment is scheduled for January 12, 2027.
Crescent City Chronological Order
Crescent City also follows its publication order:
- House of Earth and Blood
- House of Sky and Breath
- House of Flame and Shadow
Each installment builds directly on the previous storyline.
Is There One Chronological Order for All Sarah J. Maas Books?
No verified, complete chronological sequence places all three series into one definitive timeline.
The books take place in distinct fictional settings, and the official reading guides focus on the individual series rather than a combined chronology.
If your goal is to understand the main storylines, follow each series in its own recommended order. You don’t need to calculate a shared timeline to enjoy the books.
Are All Sarah J. Maas Books Connected?
Readers frequently use the term Maasverse when discussing possible connections between Sarah J. Maas’s fantasy worlds.
The term refers to the idea that the different fictional settings may exist within a larger interconnected universe.
However, it is important to distinguish between confirmed story developments and fan interpretations.
ACOTAR Connections
A Court of Thorns and Roses introduces Prythian, a world divided into different courts with powerful Fae rulers, magical abilities, and ancient conflicts.
Its characters and world-building become particularly relevant when readers encounter crossover material in Crescent City.
The ACOTAR storyline also contains details and references that encourage readers to look more closely at the wider mythology.
Throne of Glass Connections
Throne of Glass introduces another fantasy setting with its own kingdoms, magical history, supernatural beings, and ancient conflicts.
Readers often discuss possible connections between this world and the other series through shared themes, magical concepts, and potential Easter eggs.
However, fan interpretations should not be confused with officially confirmed crossover events. The series has its own central storyline and can be enjoyed independently.
Crescent City Crossover Elements
Crescent City contains the most significant crossover developments for readers exploring the Maasverse.
The later books expand the story beyond Midgard and introduce material that makes familiarity with other Sarah J. Maas books especially valuable.
This is why reading ACOTAR before Crescent City is a useful recommendation.
What Should You Read Before Exploring the Maasverse?
If you’re interested in experiencing the connections without unnecessary confusion, consider this sequence:
- Read ACOTAR: Become familiar with Prythian, its courts, and its major characters.
- Read Throne of Glass: Explore another fantasy world and its mythology.
- Read Crescent City: Experience the crossover developments with greater familiarity.
This is an editorial recommendation, not an official author-mandated reading order.
You don’t need to understand every fan theory or recognize every Easter egg before starting. Enjoy each series as its own story first.
How Many Books Has Sarah J. Maas Written?
As of November 12, 2026, Sarah J. Maas has published 17 books across her three major fantasy series.
The breakdown is:
| Series | Published books |
|---|---|
| Throne of Glass | 8 |
| ACOTAR | 6 |
| Crescent City | 3 |
| Total | 17 |
This count includes The Assassin’s Blade, a collection of prequel novellas, and A Court of Frost and Starlight, an ACOTAR novella.
If you also include her separate DC Icons novel, Catwoman: Soulstealer, the total becomes 18 book-length fiction works.
The distinction matters because author bibliographies and publisher announcements sometimes count only the three major fantasy series, while broader bibliographies include her separate fiction.
The five individual Assassin novellas should not be added again when counting The Assassin’s Blade as one collected volume. Coloring books, box sets, games, and reprints are also excluded.
What Is Sarah J. Maas’s Next Book in 2026?
The latest Sarah J. Maas release in 2026 is A Court of Splintered Harmony, the sixth ACOTAR installment.
Released on October 27, 2026, the book begins the Valkyrie Cycle: Movement I.
The publisher’s official description identifies Koschei the Deathless as a growing threat. With Prythian still dealing with the consequences of the Hybern War, the Night Court must face political divisions, betrayals, and the difficulty of restoring old alliances.
What Is the Next Sarah J. Maas Book After the 2026 Release?
The next announced installment is A Court of Forgotten Melody.
- Publication date: January 12, 2027
- Series: A Court of Thorns and Roses
- Reading position: Book 7
- Cycle: The Valkyrie Cycle, Movements II and III
- Status: Officially announced and available for preorder
Bloomsbury and Sarah J. Maas’s official website confirm the title and release date.
Readers should check the author’s official news page for future announcements concerning additional ACOTAR installments or other projects. Do not treat rumored titles or unofficial release dates as confirmed information.
FAQs Sarah J. Maas books In Order
1. What order should I read Sarah J. Maas books?
Start with whichever series interests you most. For romantasy, choose ACOTAR; for epic fantasy, choose Throne of Glass. If you want the crossover experience, read ACOTAR before Crescent City.
2. Which Sarah J. Maas series should I read first?
ACOTAR is a good starting point for readers who enjoy romance, Fae characters, and magical courts. Throne of Glass is better for readers who prefer expansive fantasy adventures and detailed character development.
3. Should I read ACOTAR or Throne of Glass first?
Neither is compulsory. Both introduce separate fictional worlds. Choose ACOTAR for fantasy romance or Throne of Glass for a longer epic fantasy storyline.
4. What is the correct Throne of Glass reading order?
Sarah J. Maas’s official recommended order is:
- 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
5. Should I read The Assassin’s Blade first?
You can because it is a prequel. However, Sarah J. Maas recommends reading it after Crown of Midnight. This is also my recommendation for first-time readers who want to experience the main story before exploring Celaena’s past.
6. Can I read Crescent City first?
Yes. Crescent City introduces its own characters and setting, so it can be read independently. However, reading ACOTAR first can make its crossover developments more rewarding.
7. Are all Sarah J. Maas books connected?
Her three fantasy series have connections and crossover elements that readers often discuss under the name Maasverse. The most significant crossover material appears in Crescent City. Not every fan theory about connections between the worlds is officially confirmed.
8. How many books has Sarah J. Maas written?
There are 17 published books across her three major fantasy series as of November 2026. Including her separate novel Catwoman: Soulstealer, the total is 18 book-length fiction works.
9. What was Sarah J. Maas’s first book?
Throne of Glass, published in 2012, was her first published novel. It introduced Celaena Sardothien and began the fantasy series that established her readership.
10. What is Sarah J. Maas’s publication order?
Her publication timeline begins with Throne of Glass (2012), followed by Crown of Midnight (2013), The Assassin’s Blade and Heir of Fire (2014), and then her ACOTAR and Crescent City releases. The complete timeline appears in the publication-order section above.
11. Does Sarah J. Maas recommend a particular Throne of Glass reading order?
Yes. Her official website lists Throne of Glass, Crown of Midnight, The Assassin’s Blade, Heir of Fire, Queen of Shadows, Empire of Storms, Tower of Dawn, and Kingdom of Ash.
12. When is Sarah J. Maas’s next book coming out?
Her next announced book is A Court of Forgotten Melody, scheduled for January 12, 2027. The previous installment, A Court of Splintered Harmony, was released on October 27, 2026.
Conclusion
Finding the right Sarah J. Maas books in order becomes much easier once you understand the differences between her three main series.
ACOTAR is a great choice for readers who love romantasy and fae courts. Throne of Glass offers a longer epic fantasy journey with extensive character development, while Crescent City combines urban fantasy, mystery, romance, and important crossover developments.
For first-time readers, my recommendation is to start with ACOTAR, continue with Throne of Glass, and then explore Crescent City. However, if epic fantasy is more appealing, starting with Throne of Glass is equally reasonable.
Most importantly, follow the reading order within each series, don’t skip important prequels or novellas, and remember that you don’t have to rush through all three worlds. Each offers a different experience worth enjoying.
Editorial Sources
- Sarah J. Maas – Official Reading Guide
- Sarah J. Maas – Official Website and News
- Bloomsbury – Sarah J. Maas Series Reading Order
- Bloomsbury – A Court of Thorns and Roses
- Bloomsbury – House of Earth and Blood
- Bloomsbury – House of Sky and Breath
- Bloomsbury – A Court of Splintered Harmony
- Penguin Random House – Catwoman: Soulstealer

Hi, I’m Nisbah – a blogger with over 2 years of experience creating content and a fantasy enthusiast who loves exploring magical worlds, fantasy books, captivating stories, and unforgettable characters. I share book recommendations, reviews, fantasy insights, and story discussions and creating guides to help readers discover their next great adventure.





