When I first discovered Sarah J. Maas, I was overwhelmed by the number of books she had written. I had heard so much about her intricate worlds and unforgettable characters, but I had no idea where to start. Should I dive into her high-fantasy epic, or should I begin with the series that everyone raved about for its romance and magical intrigue? If you’re wondering the same thing, you’re not alone. Deciding which Sarah J. Maas series to read first can be a tough choice, but I’ve got you covered.
Which Sarah J. Maas Series to Read First?
Sarah J. Maas has two main series that have taken the fantasy world by storm: Throne of Glass and A Court of Thorns and Roses (ACOTAR). Each series has a unique tone, pacing, and world, so your reading experience will differ based on your preference. Let’s break them down to help you decide where to begin.
Throne of Glass – An Epic Fantasy Adventure
If you love intricate plots, fierce heroines, and sprawling world-building, Throne of Glass is a great place to start. This series follows Celaena Sardothien, an assassin with a tragic past who is thrown into a deadly competition to win her freedom. As the series progresses, the world expands, introducing powerful magic, epic battles, and political intrigue.
Throne of Glass Reading Order:
- Throne of Glass (Book 1)
- Crown of Midnight (Book 2)
- Heir of Fire (Book 3)
- Queen of Shadows (Book 4)
- Empire of Storms (Book 5)
- Tower of Dawn (Book 6) – This companion novel follows Chaol’s story and runs parallel to Empire of Storms.
- Kingdom of Ash (Book 7) – The grand finale that ties everything together.
Why Start with the Throne of Glass?
- If you love a slow-burn plot that gradually expands into an epic adventure.
- If you enjoy strong, complex female protagonists who evolve over time.
- If you’re drawn to political intrigue, battles, and deeply woven friendships.
A Court of Thorns and Roses (ACOTAR) – A Romantic Fantasy
If you’re a fan of fairy tales, romance, and dramatic twists, A Court of Thorns and Roses might be the series for you. This story follows Feyre Archeron, a young huntress who is thrust into the world of the Fae after killing a wolf that was more than it seemed. What starts as a Beauty and the Beast-style retelling quickly evolves into something much darker and more intense.
ACOTAR Reading Order:
- A Court of Thorns and Roses (Book 1)
- A Court of Mist and Fury (Book 2)
- A Court of Wings and Ruin (Book 3)
- A Court of Frost and Starlight (Novella bridging books 3 and 4)
- A Court of Silver Flames (Book 4) – A spin-off focusing on Nesta Archeron.
Why Start with ACOTAR?
- If you enjoy lush romance with fantasy elements.
- If you prefer character-driven stories with emotional depth.
- If you like stories that mix adventure with a fairytale-like atmosphere.
Which Sarah J. Maas Series to Read First? The Final Verdict
So, when it comes down to it, which Sarah J. Maas series to read first? If you love action, epic storytelling, and watching a heroine grow from a skilled assassin into something far greater, Throne of Glass is the way to go. However, if romance, magic, and emotional storytelling are more your speed, A Court of Thorns and Roses will capture your heart.
No matter where you begin, one thing is certain—once you start reading Sarah J. Maas, you’ll be hooked. Her stories are immersive, her characters unforgettable, and her worlds impossible to leave behind. Enjoy the journey!
Bonus: The Crescent City Series
If you finish both Throne of Glass and ACOTAR and are looking for more, Maas also has the Crescent City series, an urban fantasy filled with mystery, romance, and action.
Crescent City Reading Order:
- House of Earth and Blood (Book 1)
- House of Sky and Breath (Book 2)
This series leans more into an adult fantasy realm with a modern twist, making it a great next step after ACOTAR or Throne of Glass.
At the end of the day, whether you start with Throne of Glass, A Court of Thorns and Roses, or Crescent City, you’re in for an incredible reading experience. Happy reading!
