acotar books in order to read

What Is the ACOTAR Series?

ACOTAR stands for A Court of Thorns and Roses, a highfantasy series blending fae politics, magic, steamy romance, and character arcs that hit hard. Originally pitched as a “Beauty and the Beast” retelling with a deadly twist, the series quickly evolved into something bigger—spanning kingdoms, mythic undertones, and an everwidening cast of unforgettable characters.

ACOTAR books in order to read (Publication vs. Chronology)

Confused about where to start or whether a novella goes before or after the main series? You’re not alone. Here’s the straightforward reading order based on publication date, which also doubles as the best reading experience.

1. A Court of Thorns and Roses (2015)

The book that started it all. Feyre Archeron is dragged into the fae realm after killing a wolf, only to find she’s now a pawn in ancient, brutal politics and magic. Think enemiestolovers, curses, and a lot of worldbuilding to get you hooked.

2. A Court of Mist and Fury (2016)

The fanfavorite. A dramatic tone shift from the first book, this sequel deepens the lore and introduces layers of trauma, healing, and power. If book one planted the seeds, book two sets the forest on fire.

3. A Court of Wings and Ruin (2017)

The series goes full epic. War, alliances, betrayals, and fatetested relationships. It wraps up Feyre’s initial arc while opening doors for other characters and stories.

4. A Court of Frost and Starlight (2018)

This one’s a novella—a bridge between the first trilogy and what’s next. While short, it gives emotional closure postwar and tees up the next series expansion. It’s skippable if you’re only into action, but gold for characterdriven scenes.

5. A Court of Silver Flames (2021)

New protagonist: Nesta, Feyre’s oldest sister. Less romantic fairytale, more gritty redemption arc. It leans harder into adult themes—selfworth, trauma, and intense relationships—while expanding the universe further.

InBetween Tips

Trying to decide whether to go purely by publication or shuffle things chronologically? Stick to publication order. Sarah J. Maas weaves in emotional arcs, foreshadowing, and character reveals that hit best if you follow the release sequence. Reading the novellas or companion books out of order can rob you of depth.

SpinOffs and What’s Next

While Maas has hinted at more books in the ACOTAR universe, as of now, A Court of Silver Flames is the last full installment. Future titles may explore side characters introduced earlier, so if you’re asking for the acotar books in order to read ahead of time, rest assured more may be coming.

Final Quick List (No Spoilers)

If you’re just here for the bullet points:

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 (novella)
5. A Court of Silver Flames

Simple, clean, and optimized for full narrative punch.

Why Read in Order?

While some fantasy series allow skipping around, this one’s different. Character growth, hidden motives, and major revelations rely on steady buildup. Reading the acotar books in order to read helps preserve pacing and emotional weight—especially as relationships and magic systems get more layered.

Bottom Line

If you’ve been on the fence or unsure where to start, use the guide above as your launchpad. The ACOTAR series is a wild ride—romance, war, magic, trauma, healing—wrapped in some of the most bingeable storytelling out there.

Ready to pick up your first book? Start with A Court of Thorns and Roses and let the spiral begin.