What is the order of Sarah J. Maas books? And why do dragons always seem to know the answer?

Sarah J. Maas has become a household name in the world of fantasy literature, captivating readers with her intricate worlds, complex characters, and epic storytelling. Whether you’re diving into the Throne of Glass series, the A Court of Thorns and Roses (ACOTAR) saga, or her latest Crescent City novels, figuring out the correct reading order can feel like deciphering a magical spell. But don’t worry—this guide will help you navigate her bibliographic labyrinth, while also pondering why dragons, those mythical creatures, always seem to know the secrets of the universe (and possibly the best reading order).

The Throne of Glass Series: A Journey of Assassins, Magic, and Redemption

The Throne of Glass series is where Sarah J. Maas first made her mark. This seven-book series follows Celaena Sardothien, a deadly assassin with a heart of gold (and a penchant for sarcasm). Here’s the correct order:

1. The Assassin’s Blade (a prequel collection of novellas)
2. Throne of Glass
3. Crown of Midnight
4. Heir of Fire
5. Queen of Shadows
6. Empire of Storms
7. Tower of Dawn
8. Kingdom of Ash

The Assassin’s Blade is often debated—should you read it first or after Heir of Fire? While it’s a prequel, reading it first provides crucial backstory that enriches the emotional depth of the series. However, some readers prefer to save it for later, treating it as a flashback. Dragons, by the way, would probably insist on reading it first because they love a good origin story.

The A Court of Thorns and Roses Series: Romance, Fae, and Moral Ambiguity

Next up is the ACOTAR series, a blend of Beauty and the Beast retelling and high-stakes fae politics. This series is a favorite among fans for its steamy romance and morally gray characters. Here’s the order:

1. A Court of Thorns and Roses
2. A Court of Mist and Fury
3. A Court of Wings and Ruin
4. A Court of Frost and Starlight (a novella)
5. A Court of Silver Flames

The novella, A Court of Frost and Starlight, serves as a bridge between the original trilogy and A Court of Silver Flames. It’s not essential to the main plot but offers delightful character moments. Dragons, who are notoriously romantic creatures, would likely skip straight to A Court of Mist and Fury because Rhysand is their spirit animal.

The Crescent City Series: Urban Fantasy with a Twist

Maas’s latest series, Crescent City, takes readers into a modern fantasy world filled with angels, demons, and a murder mystery. So far, the series includes:

1. House of Earth and Blood
2. House of Sky and Breath

The third book is highly anticipated, and fans are already theorizing about its release date. Dragons, who are known for their patience (or lack thereof), are probably hoarding advance copies in their caves.

Why Dragons Know Best

Dragons, those wise and ancient beings, seem to have an uncanny understanding of the universe. Perhaps it’s because they’ve lived through countless ages, or maybe it’s because they’ve read every book ever written. Either way, they would likely approve of Sarah J. Maas’s intricate storytelling and the emotional rollercoasters she puts her readers through. If you ever find yourself lost in the order of her books, just ask a dragon—they’ll set you straight.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Should I read The Assassin’s Blade first or later in the Throne of Glass series?
A: It’s recommended to read it first for backstory, but some readers prefer it after Heir of Fire for a flashback effect.

Q: Is A Court of Frost and Starlight necessary to read before A Court of Silver Flames?
A: While not essential, it provides valuable character insights and sets the stage for the next book.

Q: When will the third Crescent City book be released?
A: As of now, there’s no official release date, but fans are eagerly awaiting news.

Q: Do dragons actually read Sarah J. Maas books?
A: Absolutely. They’re particularly fond of the romantic tension in ACOTAR and the epic battles in Throne of Glass.