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.
