The Ultimate Guide to Reading A COURT OF THORNS AND ROSES (No Spoilers)

If like me you’ve been hovering on the edge of Bookstagram wondering whether to dive into that fantasy romance series everyone is obsessing over — this is your sign. I had been putting off the series for far too long and regret not diving in sooner.

This is your ultimate, spoiler-free guide to reading the A Court of Thorns and Roses series, including the correct reading order, characters and courts, creatures of Prythian, how the books connect to other Sarah J. Maas series, and what’s next.

Whether you’re a first-time reader like I was or are planning a re-read, here’s everything you need to know before entering Prythian.

What Is ACOTAR?

ACOTAR stands for A Court of Thorns and Roses, the bestselling fantasy romance series by Sarah J. Maas.

The series blends:

• High fantasy
• Romance
• Political intrigue
• Found family
• Strong character development
• Epic world-building

It’s often described as Beauty and the Beast meets fae politics meets slow-burn romance — but that barely scratches the surface.

About the Author: Sarah J. Maas

Sarah J. Maas is one of the most successful fantasy authors of the modern era. She is also the author of two other series Thrones of Glass and Crescent City. 

Her books are known for:

• Expansive fantasy worlds
• Morally complex characters
• Slow-burn romance arcs
• Powerful female leads
• Interconnected universes

ACOTAR is often considered her most accessible entry point — especially for readers that are new to fantasy romance.

The Correct Reading Order for ACOTAR

If you’re wondering how to read ACOTAR in order, here’s the official publication order (which is also the correct 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

Tip: Do not skip A Court of Frost and Starlight. While shorter, it bridges major character developments and sets up the fifth book. 

The World of Prythian: Courts & Politics (Spoiler-Free)

ACOTAR takes place in Prythian, a magical land divided into powerful fae courts. Each court has its own culture, magic, and ruling High Lord.

The seven main courts include:

Spring Court – Beauty, renewal, growth

Night Court – Mystery, power, hidden strength

Summer Court – Water, warmth, trade

Autumn Court – Fire, sharp politics

Winter Court – Ice, endurance

Day Court – Knowledge, light

Dawn Court – Healing, innovation

The politics between courts play a massive role in the overarching plot — especially as the series evolves beyond its fairy-tale beginnings.

Main Characters (Without Spoilers)

While the cast expands significantly, the series centers around:

• A fiercely determined human-turned-fae heroine
• A powerful High Lord with complex motivations
• A tight-knit inner circle built on loyalty and found family
• Strong female friendships
• Characters dealing with trauma, healing, and identity

One of ACOTAR’s biggest strengths is character growth. The emotional arcs are just as important as the battles. Check out this list of  ACOTAR's characters. 

UK Gambling in 2026: A Market Adjusting to Rules, Technology, and Public Expectations

 *This is a collaborative post 

The UK gambling industry is going through a time of change, not growth. After years of improving the law and monitoring people's behaviour, the market is starting to settle down into a more steady rhythm. There are no aggressive advertising or record-breaking user growth. There are small shifts in how people talk about and watch entertainment.

This change wasn't an accident. It shows a mix of regulatory pressure, changing payment technology, and a player base that is becoming more cautious and values openness over showiness.

Regulations in the New Era

The regulatory framework in the UK remains one of the strictest globally. And the UK Gambling Commission plays a central role in shaping the behaviour. Now, operators face tighter expectations around player protection and clear communication of risks.

• Recent regulatory guidance focus on:
• earlier identification of risky play patterns;
• clearer separation between entertainment and financial expectation;
• stronger internal controls on product presentation;
• strict protection of minors (age and content restrictions).

For the industry, these changes mean fewer headline-grabbing promotions and a stronger emphasis on the compliance-led design.

Operators Shifting Strategy, Not Presence

Major operators such as Bet365, Paddy Power, and 888casino enjoy firm positions in the market. Nevertheless, their strategies have visibly evolved. Instead of competing on volume or visual intensity, many have moved toward stability and retention.

Industry observers note several shared trends among leading brands:

• simpler interfaces with reduced visual pressure;
• fewer time-limited incentives;
• clearer information around odds, jackpots, and withdrawal processes.

This shift reflects a broader understanding that long-term sustainability now matters more than short-term engagement spikes.

Payment Methods Reflect a More Cautious Market

In 2026, how people pay also tells a story of moderation. Digital wallets and instant payment systems are still popular for small purchases, but bigger withdrawals and winnings are going through more traditional channels more and more.

The most common ways to do things on licensed UK platforms are:

• bank transfers for higher-value withdrawals;
• regulated e-wallets for smaller, routine payments;
• delayed processing for large sums to meet verification standards.

A Celebration of Pattern and Heritage Terrys x Linda Barker’s Spice Trail Collection

A new year brings a fresh start and that includes your home. If you are looking to change up your textiles around your home this year then Terry's have a wide range to choose from. New to 2026 is the Spice Trail Collection a collaboration between Terry's and Interior designer/tv presenter Linda Baker. This new range is inspired by the richness, detail and artistry of traditional Indian archived designs.  

Bidar

Featuring four bold patterns, the collection reimagines heritage motifs for contemporary living, celebrating expressive pattern, thoughtful colour and beautifully considered design. Each piece has been carefully crafted to bring depth, warmth and personality into modern homes.

Interior Designer and TV Presenter, Linda Barker, says, “This luxurious new collection draws inspiration from a vast Indian archive that I have reworked to create the sumptuous collection that we call The Spice Trail. Continuing my passion for elegant botanical patterns in the home, this is my newest collection and my most ambitious to date.”

Jaipur

Popular Thriller Book Tropes & What to Read If You Love Them

Thriller novels are addictive for a reason. Twists you never see coming, unreliable characters, dark secrets, and that just one more chapter feeling keep readers hooked until the final page.

If you’re a thriller fan, chances are you already have a favourite thriller book trope — even if you don’t realise it yet.

In this post, we’re breaking down the most popular thriller tropes and sharing book recommendations for each one, so you always know what to read next.

Why Thriller Tropes Matter

Tropes aren’t a bad thing. They tell readers what kind of tension, pacing, and emotional payoff to expect.

Whether you love domestic thrillers, psychological mind games, or fast-paced crime stories, knowing your favourite trope helps you find books you’ll actually enjoy.

1. The Unreliable Narrator

Why readers love it:

You can’t trust what you’re being told — and that makes every chapter unsettling.

This trope thrives on blurred reality, missing memories, and narrators who may be lying… even to themselves.

Perfect if you love:

• Psychological tension
• Shocking final twists
• “Wait… WHAT?” endings

What to read if you love this trope:

• The Girl on the Train by Paula Hawkins
• Gone Girl by Gillian Flynn
• The Silent Patient by Alex Michaelides
• The House Across The Lake by Riley Sager 

2. Domestic Thriller (Secrets Behind Closed Doors)

Why readers love it:

There’s something terrifying about danger hiding in everyday life — marriages, neighbours, and seemingly perfect homes.

Domestic thrillers are emotional, claustrophobic, and often deeply unsettling.

Perfect if you love:

• Marriage secrets
• Suburban suspense
• Twists involving family and trust

What to read if you love this trope:

• The Housemaid by Freida McFadden
• Behind Closed Doors by B.A. Paris
• The Wife Between Us by Greer Hendricks & Sarah Pekkanen
• Everyone Here Is Lieing by Shari Lapena

Elevate Your Look: A Guide to Winter Dressing for Every Occasion

*This is a collaborative post 

Winter is truly upon us, isn’t it? The days are shorter, the air is crisp, and while it’s tempting to hibernate in loungewear until March, the season is actually packed with reasons to dress up. From festive markets to office parties and crisp winter walks, this time of year offers so many opportunities to experiment with your style.

I always find that winter dressing requires a bit more thought than summer. It’s not just about throwing on a dress and sandals; it’s about layers, textures, and finding that sweet spot between staying warm and looking chic. If you’re feeling a bit uninspired by your cold-weather wardrobe, I’ve pulled together some ideas to help you elevate your look for all those upcoming winter events.

Mastering the Autumn-Winter Transition

The shift from autumn into deep winter can be tricky. You might have weddings or work events that fall in that awkward in-between stage where it’s cold, but not freezing. For autumn weddings, I love opting for rich, jewel tones - think emerald greens, deep burgundies, and navy blues. A long-sleeved midi dress in velvet or heavy silk is perfect. It keeps the chill off your arms but still looks incredibly elegant.

For work events or day trips, layering is your best friend. A classic trench coat over a chunky knit jumper and tailored trousers looks effortless. You can easily elevate this look with a pair of leather ankle boots and a statement scarf. It’s practical for wandering around a new city or heading to a client meeting, but it still feels pulled together.

The Magic of Christmas Markets

Is there anything more festive than a Christmas market? The smell of mulled wine, the twinkling lights, it’s magical. But let’s be honest, it’s usually freezing! The key here is practical warmth that doesn’t sacrifice style.

My go-to christmas market outfits always include a quality wool coat. Investing in a good coat is essential because, for a lot of winter, it is your outfit. Underneath, I’ll usually wear thermal leggings (a life hack for winter!) under jeans or a leather skirt with tights. Pair this with sturdy, flat boots because you’ll be on your feet a lot. Accessories are where you can have fun - a bobble hat in a bright colour or a faux fur scarf can add a lovely pop of personality to your look.

Party Season Sparkle

Winter brings a packed social calendar, and party outfits are where you can really let your hair down. Whether it’s the office Christmas party or drinks with friends, don’t be afraid of sequins. They are a festive staple for a reason!

Popular Romance Book Tropes & What to Read If You Love Them

Romance readers know the joy of finding that perfect trope — the one that guarantees butterflies, emotional tension, and a sleepless night of “just one more chapter.” Whether you love fiery enemies-to-lovers banter or soft small-town slow burns, romance tropes help us choose books we’ll adore before we even turn the first page. 

What Are Romance Tropes & Why Do Authors Use Them?

Romance tropes are familiar storytelling patterns or themes that readers instantly recognise, such as enemies to lovers, fake dating, or grumpy x sunshine. They act as emotional signposts, giving readers an idea of the journey they’re about to take and the kind of feelings they can expect along the way. Authors use tropes because they create a strong foundation for connection, tension, and payoff, while still allowing plenty of room for originality in characters, settings, and plot. For readers, tropes make choosing a book easier and more satisfying — if you know you love a particular trope, you’re far more likely to enjoy the story. Rather than being predictable, well-written tropes feel comforting, exciting, and deeply addictive.

Below, we’re breaking down the most popular romance book tropes and sharing what to read if you love them.

Enemies to Lovers

Why readers love it:

This trope thrives on tension, witty banter, and slow-burning attraction. Watching two people who can’t stand each other fall in love is irresistible.

What to read if you love Enemies to Lovers:

• The Cruel Prince by Holly Black 
• Fourth Wing by Rebecca Yarros
• Serpent & Dove by Shelby Mahurin
• Book Lovers Emily Henry 

Perfect for readers who love: banter, slow burns, and high emotional payoff.

Friends to Lovers

Why readers love it:

Comfortable, tender, and emotionally rich. This trope focuses on deep connection and the fear of ruining something beautiful.

What to read if you love Friends to Lovers:

• People We Meet on Vacation by Emily Henry
• Yours Truly, Abby Jimenez
• Every Summer After by Carley Fortune
• Releasing 10 Chloe Walsh

Perfect for readers who love: emotional depth and “it was always you” moments.

Second Chance Romance

Why readers love it:

Because love deserves another shot. This trope explores growth, regret, and rediscovering love after heartbreak.

What to read if you love Second Chance Romance:

• Happy Place by Emily Henry
• King of Greed by Ana Huang
• Wild and Wrangled Lyla Sage
• Love and Other Words by Christina Lauren

Perfect for readers who love: angst, nostalgia, and emotional healing.

Fake Dating

Why readers love it:

Pretend relationships + real feelings = elite romance tension.

What to read if you love Fake Dating:

• The Love Hypothesis by Ali Hazelwood
• Funny Story Emily Henry 
• Boyfriend Material by Alexis Hall
• Terms and Conditions, Lauren Asher

Perfect for readers who love: forced closeness and accidental feelings.

Forced Proximity

Why readers love it:

When characters are stuck together, feelings have nowhere to hide.

What to read if you love Forced Proximity:

• The Flatshare by Beth O’Leary
• One Day in December by Josie Silver
• A Court of Thorns and Roses by Sarah J Maas 
• The Right Move by Liz Tomforde

Perfect for readers who love: slow tension and emotional vulnerability.

Sports Romance

Why readers love it:

Athletic ambition meets emotional growth — plus intense chemistry.

What to read if you love Sports Romance:

• Icebreaker by Hannah Grace
• The Deal by Elle Kennedy
•  The Striker, Ana Huang
• Consider Me by Becka Mack

Perfect for readers who love: confidence, competition, and passion.