Which Order to Read Sarah J. Maas Books: A Journey Through Fantasy Realms and Unpredictable Adventures

Which Order to Read Sarah J. Maas Books: A Journey Through Fantasy Realms and Unpredictable Adventures

Sarah J. Maas has become a household name in the world of fantasy literature, captivating readers with her intricate worlds, complex characters, and emotionally charged narratives. With multiple series under her belt, including Throne of Glass, A Court of Thorns and Roses, and Crescent City, it’s no wonder readers often find themselves asking, “Which order should I read Sarah J. Maas books?” While there’s no one-size-fits-all answer, the journey through her works can be as unpredictable as the twists in her plots. Let’s dive into the various perspectives on how to approach her books, and why the order might not matter as much as the experience itself.

1. Publication Order: The Classic Approach

For many readers, starting with the publication order is the most straightforward way to experience Sarah J. Maas’s evolution as a writer. This means beginning with Throne of Glass (2012), her debut series, followed by A Court of Thorns and Roses (2015), and then Crescent City (2020). This order allows you to witness her growth in storytelling, world-building, and character development. Throne of Glass introduces you to Celaena Sardothien, a fierce assassin with a mysterious past, while A Court of Thorns and Roses delves into the darker, more romantic side of fantasy. By the time you reach Crescent City, you’ll appreciate the maturity and complexity of her latest work.

2. Series-Based Order: Dive Deep into One World

If you prefer to immerse yourself fully in one series before moving on to the next, this approach might suit you better. Each of Maas’s series stands on its own, with distinct worlds and characters. For example:

  • Throne of Glass Series: Start with Throne of Glass and follow the eight-book journey of Celaena Sardothien as she transforms from an assassin to a queen.
  • A Court of Thorns and Roses Series: Begin with A Court of Thorns and Roses and explore the romantic and political intrigues of Prythian.
  • Crescent City Series: Kick off with House of Earth and Blood and dive into the urban fantasy world of Lunathion.

This method allows you to fully engage with the nuances of each series without the distraction of switching between worlds.

3. Thematic Order: Follow Your Mood

Sarah J. Maas’s books span a wide range of themes, from epic battles and political intrigue to romance and self-discovery. If you’re in the mood for a particular type of story, you can tailor your reading order accordingly:

  • For Action and Adventure: Start with Throne of Glass, which is packed with high-stakes missions and epic battles.
  • For Romance and Fantasy: Begin with A Court of Thorns and Roses, where the romance is as central as the fantasy elements.
  • For Urban Fantasy and Mystery: Dive into Crescent City, which blends modern settings with magical intrigue.

This approach ensures that you’re always reading something that resonates with your current mood.

4. Chronological Order: A Deeper Dive into the Maasverse

For the truly dedicated fans, there’s the option to explore the connections between Maas’s series. While each series is set in its own world, there are subtle hints and Easter eggs that suggest a larger, interconnected universe. Reading in chronological order (based on in-world timelines) might reveal hidden layers and connections. For example, some fans speculate that the worlds of Throne of Glass and A Court of Thorns and Roses are linked through shared mythology and characters. This method requires a keen eye for detail and a willingness to piece together clues across multiple books.

5. The Unconventional Order: Embrace the Chaos

If you’re someone who thrives on unpredictability, why not throw caution to the wind and read the books in a completely random order? Start with Crescent City, then jump to Empire of Storms (Book 5 of Throne of Glass), and follow it up with A Court of Mist and Fury (Book 2 of ACOTAR). While this approach might seem chaotic, it could lead to a unique reading experience where you discover connections and themes in unexpected ways. After all, Sarah J. Maas’s books are known for their twists and turns—why should your reading order be any different?

6. The Hybrid Approach: Mix and Match

For those who can’t decide on a single method, a hybrid approach might be the answer. You could alternate between series, reading one book from Throne of Glass, followed by one from A Court of Thorns and Roses, and so on. This keeps the reading experience fresh and allows you to draw parallels between the different worlds and characters. It’s like having multiple storylines running simultaneously, much like the intricate plots Maas is known for.

7. The Emotional Rollercoaster Order: Prepare for Feels

Sarah J. Maas is a master of emotional storytelling, and her books often leave readers in tears—whether from joy, heartbreak, or sheer awe. If you’re ready to ride the emotional rollercoaster, consider an order that maximizes the impact. For example, start with A Court of Thorns and Roses for its intense romance, then move to Throne of Glass for its epic battles and character arcs, and finish with Crescent City for its emotional depth and modern twist. This order ensures that you’re constantly on the edge of your seat, emotionally invested in every page.

Sometimes, the best way to decide is to turn to the fandom. Online communities, such as Reddit and Goodreads, are filled with passionate readers who have debated the best reading order for years. Many fans recommend starting with A Court of Thorns and Roses due to its accessibility and strong romantic elements, which serve as a great introduction to Maas’s writing style. From there, you can branch out to Throne of Glass or Crescent City based on your preferences.

9. The Rewind Order: Start with the Latest and Work Backwards

For a truly unique experience, consider starting with Maas’s most recent work, Crescent City, and work your way backward through her bibliography. This reverse order allows you to see how her writing has evolved over time, and you might pick up on themes and motifs that recur throughout her works. It’s like peeling back the layers of a richly woven tapestry, revealing the threads that connect her stories.

10. The Ultimate Order: Create Your Own

At the end of the day, the best order to read Sarah J. Maas books is the one that feels right to you. Whether you follow a structured plan or let your curiosity guide you, the most important thing is to enjoy the journey. After all, Maas’s books are about more than just the plot—they’re about the emotions, the connections, and the unforgettable moments that stay with you long after you’ve turned the last page.

Q: Can I read A Court of Thorns and Roses before Throne of Glass?
A: Absolutely! While Throne of Glass was published first, ACOTAR is a great starting point for readers who prefer romance-heavy fantasy.

Q: Are Sarah J. Maas’s series connected?
A: While each series is set in its own world, there are subtle hints and Easter eggs that suggest a larger, interconnected universe. Reading closely might reveal these connections.

Q: Is Crescent City a good starting point for new readers?
A: Yes, Crescent City can be a great introduction to Maas’s writing, especially for fans of urban fantasy. However, it’s more mature in tone compared to her earlier works.

Q: How many books are in the Throne of Glass series?
A: The Throne of Glass series consists of eight books, including the prequel The Assassin’s Blade.

Q: What’s the best order for maximum emotional impact?
A: Many fans recommend starting with ACOTAR for its romance, then moving to Throne of Glass for its epic scope, and finishing with Crescent City for its emotional depth.