Sarah J. Maas is a celebrated author in the realm of fantasy fiction, known for her intricate world-building, compelling characters, and captivating storytelling. Her works have garnered a massive following, earning her a place among the most influential authors in the genre. With multiple series under her belt, including Throne of Glass, A Court of Thorns and Roses, and Crescent City, Maas has created interconnected worlds that transport readers to realms of magic, intrigue, and romance. This article provides a comprehensive guide to Sarah J. Maas’s books in order, exploring the series, their themes, and the best way to dive into her literary universe.
Throne of Glass Series
The Throne of Glass series is where Sarah J. Maas’s journey as an author began. This epic fantasy series follows Celaena Sardothien, a skilled assassin with a mysterious past, as she navigates a world of political intrigue, magic, and danger. The series is known for its complex characters, intricate plot twists, and themes of resilience and redemption.
Books in Order:
- The Assassin’s Blade (2014) – A collection of prequel novellas that introduce Celaena’s backstory and set the stage for the main series.
- Throne of Glass (2012) – The first novel in the series, where Celaena competes in a deadly tournament to become the king’s champion.
- Crown of Midnight (2013) – Celaena uncovers dark secrets and faces difficult choices as she serves the king.
- Heir of Fire (2014) – Celaena embarks on a journey of self-discovery and confronts her destiny.
- Queen of Shadows (2015) – The stakes rise as Celaena returns to reclaim her throne and fight for her people.
- Empire of Storms (2016) – The battle for survival intensifies as alliances are forged and enemies emerge.
- Tower of Dawn (2017) – A companion novel focusing on Chaol Westfall’s journey and the healing of his soul.
- Kingdom of Ash (2018) – The epic conclusion to the series, where Celaena and her allies face their greatest challenges.
The Throne of Glass series is best read in publication order, starting with The Assassin’s Blade to fully appreciate Celaena’s journey.
A Court of Thorns and Roses Series
The A Court of Thorns and Roses (ACOTAR) series is a romantic fantasy saga that blends elements of fairy tales with Sarah J. Maas’s signature storytelling. The series follows Feyre Archeron, a mortal woman who becomes entangled in the world of the fae after killing a wolf in the woods. Themes of love, sacrifice, and empowerment are central to the series.
Books in Order:
- A Court of Thorns and Roses (2015) – Feyre’s journey begins as she is taken to the fae realm and discovers its secrets.
- A Court of Mist and Fury (2016) – Feyre’s story continues as she navigates new alliances and confronts her inner demons.
- A Court of Wings and Ruin (2017) – The stakes rise as Feyre and her allies prepare for war against a powerful enemy.
- A Court of Frost and Starlight (2018) – A novella that bridges the original trilogy and sets the stage for future stories.
- A Court of Silver Flames (2021) – A spin-off focusing on Nesta Archeron and her journey of healing and self-discovery.
The ACOTAR series is best read in publication order, as each book builds upon the events of the previous one.
Crescent City Series
The Crescent City series is Maas’s latest venture into adult fantasy, featuring a modern urban setting with a mix of magic, technology, and mythology. The series follows Bryce Quinlan, a half-human, half-fae woman, as she investigates a murder and uncovers dark secrets about her city.
Books in Order:
- House of Earth and Blood (2020) – Bryce’s story begins as she seeks justice for her friends and navigates a dangerous world.
- House of Sky and Breath (2022) – The stakes rise as Bryce and her allies face new threats and uncover hidden truths.
- House of Flame and Shadow (Expected in 2024) – The upcoming installment promises to continue Bryce’s journey and expand the series’ intricate world.
The Crescent City series is best read in publication order to fully immerse yourself in its complex narrative.
Standalone Works and Contributions
In addition to her main series, Sarah J. Maas has contributed to other projects, including:
- Catwoman: Soulstealer (2018) – A standalone novel in the DC Icons series, featuring Selina Kyle’s transformation into Catwoman.
- Various dramatized adaptations of her works, which bring her stories to life in new formats.
Reading Order Recommendations
For readers new to Sarah J. Maas, the recommended starting point depends on your preferences:
- If you enjoy epic fantasy with a strong female protagonist, begin with Throne of Glass.
- If you’re drawn to romantic fantasy with fae and fairy tale elements, start with A Court of Thorns and Roses.
- If you prefer urban fantasy with a modern twist, dive into Crescent City.
Each series offers a unique experience, but all share Maas’s signature style of storytelling.
Themes and Impact
Sarah J. Maas’s books explore themes of resilience, empowerment, love, and redemption. Her characters are often flawed but deeply relatable, and her worlds are richly imagined. Maas’s ability to blend action, romance, and emotional depth has earned her a devoted fanbase and critical acclaim.
Her works have also had a significant impact on the fantasy genre, inspiring readers and writers alike. The success of her books has paved the way for more female-led fantasy stories and highlighted the importance of diverse narratives.
Conclusion
Sarah J. Maas’s books are a testament to the power of storytelling and the magic of fantasy. Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to her works, her series offer unforgettable journeys into worlds of wonder and intrigue. By following this guide, you can explore her books in order and fully immerse yourself in the Maasverse.
Also Read: 10 Must-Read James Baldwin Books That Will Change Your Perspective
