Summary: In today's article, I have compiled 20 of the best books by Sarah J. Maas, ranked by popularity and reader acclaim. Here are my top 3:
Sarah J. Maas is a master of fantasy, known for rich world-building, strong heroines, and addictive plots. Her books blend romance, magic, and action, creating immersive stories full of epic battles, slow-burn romance, and complex characters. If you love fantasy that keeps you hooked, her books are a must-read!
TOP 20: Best Books by Sara J Maas
- A Court of Mist and Fury
- A Court of Thorns and Roses
- A Court of Wings and Ruin
- House of Earth and Blood
- A Court of Silver Flames
- Throne of Glass
- Queen of Shadows
- Heir of Fire
- Kingdom of Ash
- Empire of Storms
- House of Sky and Breath
- Crown of Midnight
- Tower of Dawn
- The Assassin’s Blade
- A Court of Frost and Starlight
- House of Flame and Shadow
- Catwoman: Soulstealer
- The World of Throne of Glass
- Throne of Glass Coloring Book
- A Court of Thorns and Roses Coloring Book
1. A Court of Mist and Fury
- Author: Sarah J. Maas
- About: The second book in the A Court of Thorns and Roses series, it follows Feyre Archeron's journey as she navigates new alliances and discovers her own power.
- Style of writing: Emotionally charged with vivid descriptions, blending romance, fantasy, and personal growth.
- Length: Approximately 164,000 words.
- Year written: Published in 2016.
- Emotional impact: Deeply resonates with themes of healing, empowerment, and self-discovery, leaving a lasting impression.
- Difficulty level: Moderate; contains mature themes suitable for older teens and adults.
- Why read it: Offers a compelling exploration of character development and intricate world-building, making it a standout in fantasy romance.
2. A Court of Thorns and Roses
- Author: Sarah J. Maas
- About: Follows Feyre Archeron, a mortal who becomes entangled in the faerie realm after killing a faerie wolf.
- Style of writing: Lush descriptions with a blend of romance and fantasy elements.
- Length: Approximately 130,000 words.
- Year written: Published in 2015.
- Emotional impact: Explores deep emotional connections and personal growth, resonating with readers.
- Difficulty level: Moderate; contains mature themes suitable for older teens and adults.
- Why read it: Combines fairy tale retelling with intricate character dynamics and world-building.
3. A Court of Wings and Ruin
- Author: Sarah J. Maas
- About: The third installment in the A Court of Thorns and Roses series, where Feyre returns to the Spring Court, determined to gather information on Tamlin's dealings and the invading king threatening Prythian.
- Style of writing: Intense and action-packed, combining political intrigue with deep emotional stakes.
- Length: Approximately 190,000 words.
- Year written: Published in 2017.
- Emotional impact: Delivers a roller-coaster of emotions, highlighting themes of loyalty, sacrifice, and resilience.
- Difficulty level: Moderate; suitable for readers comfortable with complex plots and mature themes.
- Why read it: Provides a thrilling continuation of the series, culminating in epic battles and profound character developments.
4. House of Earth and Blood
- Author: Sarah J. Maas
- About: The first book in the Crescent City series, introducing Bryce Quinlan, a half-human, half-fae navigating a modern fantasy city while seeking justice for her murdered friends.
- Style of writing: Detailed and immersive, blending urban fantasy with elements of mystery and romance.
- Length: Approximately 204,000 words.
- Year written: Published in 2020.
- Emotional impact: Engages readers with themes of loss, resilience, and the complexities of friendship, leaving a profound impact.
- Difficulty level: Moderate to advanced; suitable for adult readers due to complex plotlines and mature themes.
- Why read it: Presents a fresh take on urban fantasy with a strong, relatable heroine and an intricately crafted world.
5. A Court of Silver Flames
- Author: Sarah J. Maas
- About: Focusing on Nesta Archeron, this novel explores her journey of healing and empowerment after the traumatic events of the war, delving into her complex relationship with Cassian.
- Style of writing: Introspective and character-driven, with a balance of intense romance and personal growth.
- Length: Approximately 225,000 words.
- Year written: Published in 2021.
- Emotional impact: Offers a deep exploration of trauma, redemption, and the transformative power of love, leaving a lasting impression.
- Difficulty level: Advanced; contains explicit content and mature themes suitable for adult readers.
- Why read it: Provides a raw and honest portrayal of personal struggle and growth within a richly developed fantasy setting.
6. Throne of Glass
- Author: Sarah J. Maas
- About: Celaena Sardothien, a skilled assassin, is freed from prison to compete for the title of the king’s champion. As she fights for survival, she uncovers dark secrets that could change the kingdom forever.
- Style of writing: Fast-paced, action-packed, and immersive, blending fantasy, intrigue, and character growth.
- Length: 117,000 words (~416 pages).
- Year written: 2012
- Emotional impact: A gripping tale of resilience, self-discovery, and destiny, leaving readers eager for more.
- Difficulty level: Moderate – Suitable for YA and adult readers who enjoy fantasy with action and mystery.
- Why read it: Perfect for fans of strong heroines, royal intrigue, and thrilling adventure, setting the stage for an epic fantasy saga.
7. Queen of Shadows
- Author: Sarah J. Maas
- About: Celaena Sardothien embraces her true identity as Aelin Galathynius and returns to Rifthold to confront her past, free her enslaved friends, and overthrow a tyrannical empire.
- Style of writing: Intense, action-driven, and emotional, balancing political intrigue, character growth, and epic battles.
- Length: 195,000 words (~656 pages).
- Year written: 2015
- Emotional impact: High stakes, emotional reunions, and thrilling confrontations make this a powerful and rewarding read.
- Difficulty level: Moderate to advanced, as the plot thickens and expands.
- Why read it: A turning point in the series, packed with twists, action, and deep character moments.
8. Heir of Fire
- Author: Sarah J. Maas
- About: After escaping Adarlan, Celaena journeys to a distant land to train with the Fae and unlock her true magical potential, while chaos brews across the continent.
- Style of writing: Expansive, emotional, and rich in world-building, shifting from court intrigue to a journey of self-discovery.
- Length: 187,000 words (~565 pages).
- Year written: 2014
- Emotional impact: Deeply personal and heart-wrenching, as Celaena confronts her past and faces new challenges.
- Difficulty level: Moderate – More complex than earlier books, with multiple POVs and expanding lore.
- Why read it: A transformational book in the series, introducing new characters and deepening the magic system.
9. Kingdom of Ash
- Author: Sarah J. Maas
- About: The final book in the Throne of Glass series follows Aelin and her allies in an all-out war to defeat a dark empire and reclaim freedom for her people.
- Style of writing: Epic, high-stakes, and emotionally intense, delivering battle sequences, sacrifices, and a gripping conclusion.
- Length: 272,000 words (~992 pages).
- Year written: 2018
- Emotional impact: Heart-wrenching, triumphant, and unforgettable, leaving a lasting impact.
- Difficulty level: Advanced, as multiple storylines converge for the grand finale.
- Why read it: A masterpiece of epic fantasy, wrapping up the beloved series in an emotionally satisfying way.
10. Empire of Storms
- Author: Sarah J. Maas
- About: As war looms, Aelin races against time to forge alliances, uncover ancient secrets, and prepare for the ultimate battle against dark forces.
- Style of writing: Fast-paced, cinematic, and intense, filled with romance, strategy, and epic twists.
- Length: 213,000 words (~704 pages).
- Year written: 2016
- Emotional impact: Thrilling and heartbreaking, setting up the dramatic finale.
- Difficulty level: Moderate to advanced, due to multiple storylines and high emotional stakes.
- Why read it: A rollercoaster ride that sets the stage for an unforgettable ending.
11. House of Sky and Breath
- Author: Sarah J. Maas
- About: The second book in the Crescent City series follows Bryce and Hunt as they uncover dangerous conspiracies in a world on the brink of chaos.
- Style of writing: Urban fantasy meets epic adventure, with suspense, romance, and thrilling action.
- Length: 203,000 words (~805 pages).
- Year written: 2022
- Emotional impact: A wild ride full of twists and an explosive ending.
- Difficulty level: Advanced, due to the complexity of world-building and multiple character arcs.
- Why read it: A perfect blend of action, romance, and mystery, expanding the Crescent City universe.
12. Crown of Midnight
- Author: Sarah J. Maas
- About: Now the king’s champion, Celaena uncovers dangerous secrets that put her loyalties to the test as she plots against her new master.
- Style of writing: Action-packed, mysterious, and emotionally charged.
- Length: 125,000 words (~418 pages).
- Year written: 2013
- Emotional impact: Heartbreaking and suspenseful, with shocking revelations.
- Difficulty level: Moderate, with more intrigue and complexity than Throne of Glass.
- Why read it: A pivotal book that deepens the stakes and sets up Celaena’s true journey.
13. Tower of Dawn
- Author: Sarah J. Maas
- About: A companion novel to Empire of Storms, following Chaol Westfall as he travels to a distant empire seeking healing and alliances.
- Style of writing: Character-driven, slow-burn, and deeply emotional.
- Length: 195,000 words (~672 pages).
- Year written: 2017
- Emotional impact: Profound and inspiring, focusing on recovery, redemption, and diplomacy.
- Difficulty level: Moderate, with a focus on politics and relationships.
- Why read it: A unique perspective that adds depth to the main storyline.
14. The Assassin’s Blade
- Author: Sarah J. Maas
- About: A prequel collection of five novellas detailing Celaena’s early assassin missions and her tragic backstory.
- Style of writing: Shorter, episodic, and filled with action and heartbreak.
- Length: 145,000 words (~448 pages).
- Year written: 2014
- Emotional impact: Bittersweet and essential for understanding Celaena’s character.
- Difficulty level: Easy to moderate, as each story is self-contained.
- Why read it: Provides crucial insight into Celaena’s past and motivations.
15. A Court of Frost and Starlight
- Author: Sarah J. Maas
- About: A bridge novella between A Court of Wings and Ruin and A Court of Silver Flames, showing life after war.
- Style of writing: Cozy, light, and character-focused, with holiday vibes.
- Length: 40,000 words (~272 pages).
- Year written: 2018
- Emotional impact: Warm and reflective, but lower stakes.
- Difficulty level: Easy, as it’s more of a slice-of-life story.
- Why read it: A feel-good epilogue for fans of the ACOTAR series.
16. House of Flame and Shadow
- Author: Sarah J. Maas
- About: The third book in the Crescent City series, following Bryce Quinlan as she navigates a new world while Hunt Athalar faces increasing danger at home.
- Style of writing: Expansive, fast-paced, and emotionally charged, blending urban fantasy and epic adventure.
- Length: ~250,000 words (~800 pages).
- Year written: 2024
- Emotional impact: Highly emotional, with shocking twists and intense character arcs.
- Difficulty level: Advanced, due to multiple storylines and intricate world-building.
- Why read it: A game-changer in the Crescent City series, packed with explosive surprises and deep character growth.
17. Catwoman: Soulstealer
- Author: Sarah J. Maas
- About: A standalone novel in the DC Icons series, following Selina Kyle’s transformation into Catwoman and her rise in Gotham City.
- Style of writing: Fast-paced, action-packed, and witty, with a mix of heist, heroics, and romance.
- Length: ~104,000 words (~384 pages).
- Year written: 2018
- Emotional impact: Engaging but lighter compared to Maas’s other works.
- Difficulty level: Moderate, suitable for both YA and superhero fans.
- Why read it: A fun, fresh take on an iconic character, with Maas’s signature strong heroine.
18. The World of Throne of Glass
- Author: Sarah J. Maas
- About: A companion book offering an in-depth look into the Throne of Glass universe, featuring maps, character profiles, and behind-the-scenes content.
- Style of writing: Informative and visually engaging, designed for fans who love extra lore.
- Length: Varies (likely ~400 pages).
- Year written: Upcoming (release date TBA).
- Emotional impact: Adds depth and nostalgia for fans of the series.
- Difficulty level: Easy, designed for reference and enjoyment.
- Why read it: A must-have for devoted fans, expanding the world beyond the main books.
19. Throne of Glass Coloring Book
- Author: Sarah J. Maas
- About: A detailed coloring book featuring iconic scenes and characters from the Throne of Glass series.
- Style of writing: Illustrated, interactive, and designed for relaxation and creativity.
- Length: ~96 pages.
- Year written: 2016
- Emotional impact: Fun and nostalgic, but not story-driven.
- Difficulty level: Easy, suitable for all ages.
- Why read it: A perfect collector’s item for Throne of Glass fans.
20. A Court of Thorns and Roses Coloring Book
- Author: Sarah J. Maas
- About: A companion coloring book with stunning illustrations inspired by the A Court of Thorns and Roses series.
- Style of writing: Artistic and interactive, featuring detailed designs of characters, creatures, and landscapes.
- Length: ~96 pages.
- Year written: 2017
- Emotional impact: Light and enjoyable, offering a creative way to engage with the ACOTAR world.
- Difficulty level: Easy, suitable for both beginners and experienced artists.
- Why read it: A beautiful addition to any Maas fan’s collection, perfect for creative expression.
Conclusion
Sarah J. Maas has a way of pulling readers into rich, immersive worlds filled with magic, romance, and unforgettable characters. In my opinion, A Court of Mist and Fury, A Court of Thorns and Roses, and A Court of Wings and Ruin are her best works—each one packed with high-stakes adventure, deep emotional storytelling, and characters that feel so real. Whether you're reading her books for the first time or coming back for a re-read, I think Maas delivers some of the most gripping fantasy and romance out there. If you're looking for a series that will completely sweep you away, these are the perfect place to start.
