Reading Sarah J. Maas's interconnected fantasy books require reading through three distinct series—"Throne of Glass," "A Court of Thorns and Roses," and "Crescent City"—with multiple recommended reading paths depending on whether readers prefer publication order or chronological progression.
Reading Order for A Court of Thorns and Roses (ACOTAR)
According to author Sarah J. Maas’s website, starting with this series is suggested as part of the reading order.
- “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” (Scheduled for release on Oct. 27)
- “A Court of Forgotten Melody” (Scheduled for release on Jan. 12)
Reading Order for Throne of Glass
According to Maas’s official site, “Throne of Glass” is a classic high fantasy series following Celaena Sardothien, a notorious assassin working in a kingdom where magic has been outlawed. The official reading sequence differs slightly from strict publication history.
- “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”
While “The Assassin’s Blade” consists of five prequel novellas depicting events before the first novel, Maas’s official reading guide places the collection after “Crown of Midnight.”
Reading Order for Crescent City
The series consists of three published novels:
- “House of Earth and Blood”
- “House of Sky and Breath”
- “House of Flame and Shadow”
How the Worlds Connect
While each of the three series operates as a distinct standalone story that can be enjoyed independently, Maas has woven dimensional and narrative connections between “ACOTAR,” “Throne of Glass,” and “Crescent City.” These crossover elements become increasingly prominent across later installments, rewarding readers who explore all three universes.