Sarah J. Maas has become one of the most beloved voices in modern fantasy fiction, and is known for her intricate worldbuilding, romance that will sweep you off your feet, and unforgettable characters. With multiple bestselling series to her name, it’s hard for a beginner to her world to know where to begin. This guide will walk you though Sarah J. Maas books in order, from Throne of Glass to the Crescent City series, so you don’t get confused as you explore her epic worlds.
Throne of Glass Series: The Starting Point
The Throne of Glass series was Sarah J. Maa’s debut and remains a fan favorite among many. It’s popular because of the fierce heroine, political intrigue and the magical world that’s always changing. SJM wrote a fantasy saga that’s set in the kingdom of Erilea, and the main character is Celaena Sardothien. In the book, she fights her enemies and dark forces before discovering her real destiny.
If you want to try out the Throne of Glass collection, read The Assassin’s Blade first because this takes place before the main novel. But some other readers say that Throne of Glass is a good place to start before going back to the prequel. Either approach is good, but you should read in chronological order for better worldbuilding and character arcs.
The rest of the books in the Throne of Glass reading order include:
- Crown of Midnight
- Heir of Fire
- Queen of Shadows
- Empire of Storms
- Tower of Dawn (parallel story to Empire of Storms)
- Kingdom of Ash
A Court of Thorns and Roses Series: Romantic Fantasy with a Dark Edge
After you read Throne of Glass, it’s time to step into an exciting world with fae courts and ancient magic. That’s A Court of Thorns and Roses series, also called ACOTAR, which blends fantasy adventure with slow-burn romance, high-stakes battles, and themes of healing and resilience.
The first three books of the A Court of Thorns and Roses Reading Order are A Court of Thorns and Roses, A Court of Mist and Fury, and A Court of Wings and Ruin. These books follow Feyre Archeron when she finds herself in the middle of the fae realm and its complex politics.
The later titles are A Court of Frost and Starlight, which is a novella, and A Court of Silver Frames, and this takes the focus to other characters, expanding the universe.
Crescent City Series: Urban Fantasy for Adult Readers
For readers that want to check out the most mature and complex Sarah J. Maas books, the Crescent City series offers a rich blend of modern technology, ancient magic, and supernatural politics. It’s set in the bustling city of Lunathion, where humans, fae, angels and shifters work together under fragile peace.
The series is best for adult fantasy readers, and comes with intricate worldbuilding and emotionally intense storylines. They are House of Earth and Blood, House of Sky and Breath, and House of Flame and Shadow. They actually connect to Maas’ other series, as sharp-eyed fans have spotted some crossover Easter eggs linking Crescent City to the ACOTAR universe.
Suggested Sarah J. Maas Reading Order
If you’re new to Sarah J Maas work, you might be wondering which series to get started with. For those that have decided to start, there are two ways to go about it. Young adult fantasy fans can read it the normal way, from Throne of Glass to ACOTAR and then Crescent City.
But anyone that enjoys romantic or adult fantasy should start with ACOTAR then go to Crescent City. Then read Throne of Glass. But there’s no right or wrong order, only the joy of discovering her different worlds.