Reading a Sarah J. Maas (SJM) book is not just reading a story. It is entering a massive, interconnected universe known as the Maasverse. With three major series and more books on the way in 2026, many readers feel overwhelmed. Should you start with the faeries of Prythian? The assassins of Erilea? Or the urban fantasy chaos of Lunathion?
This guide breaks down every possible reading order. Whether you want to follow the publication dates or dive into the emotional heart of the story, we have you covered. Let’s explore the worlds of Throne of Glass, A Court of Thorns and Roses, and Crescent City.
1. The Throne of Glass Series: Where It All Began
Throne of Glass (ToG) is Sarah J. Maas’s debut series. It follows Celaena Sardothien, an assassin who competes to become the King’s Champion. This series starts as a young adult fantasy but evolves into a high-stakes epic with massive battles and complex magic.
The Debate: The Assassin’s Blade
The biggest question for new readers is when to read The Assassin’s Blade (the prequel collection).
- First: To understand Celaena’s history before the main story.
- Third or Fourth: To feel the maximum emotional impact of the backstories revealed later.
|
Book Title |
Release Year |
Main Theme |
|
The Assassin’s Blade |
2014 |
Prequel / Origins |
|
Throne of Glass |
2012 |
Competition / Mystery |
|
Crown of Midnight |
2013 |
Secrets / Betrayal |
|
Heir of Fire |
2014 |
Magic / Training |
|
Queen of Shadows |
2015 |
Revenge / War |
|
Empire of Storms |
2016 |
Journey / Alliances |
|
Tower of Dawn |
2017 |
Healing / Expansion |
|
Kingdom of Ash |
2018 |
Finale / Sacrifice |
The “Tandem Read” Strategy
Many fans suggest reading Empire of Storms and Tower of Dawn at the same time. These two books happen simultaneously in different parts of the world. Reading them together prevents the cliffhanger at the end of Empire of Storms from feeling too painful while you spend 600 pages with different characters in Tower of Dawn.
2. A Court of Thorns and Roses: The Fan Favorite
Commonly called ACOTAR, this series began as a Beauty and the Beast retelling. It quickly transformed into a deep exploration of trauma, healing, and romance. It is the most popular entry point for many new SJM fans.
Why Start Here?
ACOTAR is shorter than Throne of Glass and focuses more on romance and “inner circle” dynamics. If you love character-driven stories and lush, magical settings like the Night Court, this is your starting line.
|
Book Title |
Reading Order |
Why it Matters |
|
A Court of Thorns and Roses |
Book 1 |
Introduces Feyre and the Fae world |
|
A Court of Mist and Fury |
Book 2 |
Widely considered the best book in the series |
|
A Court of Wings and Ruin |
Book 3 |
The conclusion of the first major war |
|
A Court of Frost and Starlight |
Book 3.5 |
A bridge novella (holiday special) |
|
A Court of Silver Flames |
Book 4 |
Focuses on Nesta and Cassian |
3. Crescent City: The Modern Maasverse
Crescent City (CC) is Sarah’s first “adult” fantasy series. It takes place in a modern world with cell phones, nightclubs, and skyscrapers—but also angels, shifters, and demons.
Warning: Do not read Crescent City until you have read the other series! There are massive “crossover” elements that will only make sense if you know the history of the other worlds.
|
Book Title |
Tone |
Complexity |
|
House of Earth and Blood |
Urban Fantasy |
High World Building |
|
House of Sky and Breath |
Mystery / Thriller |
Shocking Ending |
|
House of Flame and Shadow |
Epic Fantasy |
Major Crossover |
4. The “Maasverse” Chronological Reading Order
As of 2026, it is confirmed that these worlds are connected. To get the best experience without spoilers, many experts recommend the Publication Order. This allows you to see how Sarah’s writing and world-building evolved over time.
The Recommended Path:
- Throne of Glass (Books 1–3)
- A Court of Thorns and Roses (Books 1–4)
- Finish Throne of Glass
- A Court of Silver Flames
- Crescent City 1, 2, and 3
|
Series Order |
Recommended Strategy |
|
Start with ACOTAR |
Best for romance lovers |
|
Start with ToG |
Best for epic plot lovers |
|
Save CC for Last |
Essential for the crossover |
FAQ: Common Questions About SJM Books
Can I read Crescent City before ACOTAR?
You can, but you will miss the significance of the “big reveals.” Reading ACOTAR first makes the events in House of Flame and Shadow much more exciting.
Is Sarah J. Maas still writing more books in 2026?
Yes! Sarah has a multi-book contract. Fans are currently waiting for more information on the next A Court of Thorns and Roses installment and potentially a new series or a Crescent City spin-off.
What is the “Tandem Read”?
The tandem read is when you read Empire of Storms and Tower of Dawn together, switching chapters based on a specific guide. This is highly recommended for first-time readers of Throne of Glass.
Final Words: Finding Your Magic
The beauty of the Sarah J. Maas books is that there is no “wrong” way to start, as long as you enjoy the journey. These books have created a massive community of readers who find strength in the characters. Whether you are fighting alongside Aelin Galathynius or soaring through the skies with Rhysand, the Maasverse is a place of wonder.
Take your time. These books are long, but the emotional payoff is worth every page. Grab a cup of tea, find a cozy chair, and get ready to fall in love with some of the best fantasy characters ever written.
