Reading Order – A Court of Thorns and Roses – Sarah J. Maas – Complete Guide – Books in Order

Reading order of the A Court of Thorns and Roses series by Sarah J. Maas. Contains general spoilers and emotional evolution through to the latest book released. In Prythian, even love burns with scars. Reading this saga in order means diving into a realm of magical courts where every choice has a price and every soul casts a shadow. From Feyre to Nesta, from hate to desire, ACOTAR doesn’t just rewrite romantic fantasy—it sets it ablaze with fury, longing, and second chances.

Feyre and Rhysand rise from a burning book under a split sky, surrounded by ancient columns and living magic – A Court of Thorns and Roses Reading Order

Introduction – Reading Order – A Court of Thorns and Roses

 The A Court of Thorns and Roses series, written by Sarah J. Maas, has emerged as one of the most influential sagas in contemporary romantic fantasy. This reading order guide will immerse you in the magical realm of Prythian, where passion, war, and personal transformation are woven into a story that transcends the boundaries of young adult fiction.

From the first novel centered on Feyre Archeron to the narrative shift led by Nesta, the series evolves in tone, focus, and emotional depth. With a system of magical courts, immortal beings, and both internal and epic conflicts, ACOTAR blends intense action, personal growth, and complex relationships with an addictive storytelling style.

Following this reading order allows you to fully experience the chronological and emotional development of the characters. It's the ideal way to understand the plot twists, the bonds forged, and the sacrifices that shape the fate of Prythian.

All Books in Reading Order – A Court of Thorns and Roses

1. A Court of Thorns and Roses – A Court of Thorns and Roses – Book 1

Feyre, struggling to keep her family alive, hunts deep in the forest and takes down a strange beast. She doesn’t realize her act breaks an ancient treaty, and soon, she’s dragged into a realm ruled by immortal fae. Life in the Spring Court is nothing like she expected—its beauty is shadowed by a mysterious curse. As she uncovers the truth, Feyre must navigate secrets, danger, and unexpected emotions. Her choices could change the fate of more than one world, and as her perspective shifts, so does the path she thought she was destined for. Begin with the full summary of A Court of Thorns and Roses ➤

2. A Court of Mist and Fury – A Court of Thorns and Roses – Book 2

After surviving the darkness she once faced, Feyre is no longer the same. Haunted by her past and confined in a life that no longer fits her, she finds an unexpected lifeline in a bargain with the High Lord of the Night Court. There, she discovers not only a new kind of power, but also a chance to redefine herself. The freedom she craves comes with its own challenges, and as war approaches, Feyre is forced to confront loyalty, identity, and love in entirely new ways. Access the full summary of A Court of Mist and Fury ➤

3. A Court of Wings and Ruin – A Court of Thorns and Roses – Book 3

War threatens to tear everything apart. Feyre returns to a court full of lies and must play a dangerous game to uncover the enemy’s plans. With the continent on the brink of destruction, alliances must be formed across ancient divides. Feyre and her allies gather strength, both political and personal, in a desperate attempt to protect their world. Betrayal, sacrifice, and raw strength collide as the future of both human and fae realms hangs by a thread. This book marks the end of an arc, but not the end of the story. Read the full summary of A Court of Wings and Ruin ➤ 

4. A Court of Frost and Starlight – A Court of Thorns and Roses – Book 4

Set during a period of recovery, this shorter installment offers a quieter, more intimate look into the characters’ lives. Feyre, Rhysand, and their close companions prepare for a winter celebration while trying to rebuild both their city and themselves. Each character faces personal challenges as they reflect on what was lost—and what might still be possible. Though it lacks the epic battles of the other books, its emotional weight and quieter moments add essential layers before the saga moves forward into a new phase. Get all the key points in the full summary of A Court of Frost and Starlight ➤

5. A Court of Silver Flames – A Court of Thorns and Roses – Book 5

Nesta has burned every bridge around her. Struggling with anger, guilt, and grief, she isolates herself from those who care about her. But when she’s forced to train with Cassian, a warrior who refuses to let her fall apart, everything begins to shift. This installment turns inward, focusing on personal healing, found family, and female strength. Beneath the emotional struggle, a new threat brews, and Nesta may hold the key to facing it. Fierce, unapologetic, and deeply personal, her story opens a new chapter in the series. Dive into the plot with the full summary of A Court of Silver Flames ➤

Conclusion – Reading Order – A Court of Thorns and Roses

Reading the A Court of Thorns and Roses series in the correct order is a journey through scars, redemption, and emotional power. Sarah J. Maas has crafted a universe of contrasts: beauty and darkness, love and rage, fate and choice. Each installment brings new perspectives, expanding the reader’s understanding of the characters and the world they inhabit.

From Feyre’s arc in the first three novels to Nesta’s rebirth in A Court of Silver Flames, the series provides an honest portrayal of trauma, healing, and the possibility of reinvention. Emotional nuance, internal conflict, and supernatural threats are balanced in a narrative that matures alongside its protagonists.

This guide allows you to fully enjoy a series that not only entertains but also leaves a lasting impression through its intensity, emotional complexity, and rich world-building. With more books on the horizon, the journey through Prythian is far from over.

FAQs – Reading Order – A Court of Thorns and Roses

What is the correct reading order for the A Court of Thorns and Roses series?

The recommended reading order is: A Court of Thorns and Roses, A Court of Mist and Fury, A Court of Wings and Ruin, followed by the novella A Court of Frost and Starlight, and finally A Court of Silver Flames. Reading them in this order preserves character growth and plot progression. Skipping around can ruin emotional arcs or key revelations.

Is A Court of Frost and Starlight necessary to read?

Yes. Despite being shorter, A Court of Frost and Starlight serves as an emotional and narrative bridge between Feyre’s trilogy and Nesta’s story. It gives readers important insight into how characters process the aftermath of war and helps set up themes that carry into A Court of Silver Flames. Skipping it means losing vital emotional context.

How many books will there be in the ACOTAR series?

There are currently five books published, with at least two more confirmed by the author. Book six is expected in 2025, and book seven could follow in 2026. The series is still expanding, and future installments may explore new characters, conflicts, and regions within the world of Prythian.

Do I need to read Throne of Glass or Crescent City before starting ACOTAR?

Not at all. Each of Sarah J. Maas’s series takes place in a separate universe with distinct characters and lore. ACOTAR stands on its own. However, if you enjoy Maas’s writing, you may want to explore her other series afterward—they share a strong emotional tone and complex fantasy worlds.

Is there a TV adaptation of A Court of Thorns and Roses?

Yes, a television adaptation is in development, though no official release date has been announced. The project has generated a lot of buzz due to the visual potential of Prythian’s magical courts. For now, the best way to experience the world is through the books, which offer rich emotional depth and detailed storytelling.