By now, you’ve probably seen A Court of Thorns and Roses (ACOTAR) all over BookTok, BookTube, and every fantasy romance recommendation list. Does it deserve that hype?
Sarah J. Maas delivers a world filled with fantasy, swoon worthy romance, and some of the most unforgettable characters. What starts as something similar to a dark retelling of Beauty and the Beast quickly morphs into something much larger: a overarching tale of love, power, and personal growth.
A Court of Thorns and Roses: An Enchanting Beginning
The series kicks off with Feyre Archeron, a huntress who finds herself whisked away to the magical land of Prythian after killing what she believed was a simple wolf. Enter Tamlin, a powerful High Lord of the Fae, who introduces Feyre to a world she never could have imagined.
While romance plays a big role in the story, Maas gives equal attention to the intricate world-building, Fae politics, and an underlying darkness that hints at something much more dangerous brewing beneath the surface.
Why You’ll Love It:
- An immersive fantasy world inspired by fairytales
- Strong character development and layered relationships
- A second half that explodes with action and high stakes
The ending is wrapped up well, but there’s a moment towards the end (one involving an intriguing side character) that will have you needing the next book immediately.
A Court of Mist and Fury: The Sequel That Defined Fantasy Romance?
If ACOTAR was a fairytale, A Court of Mist and Fury (ACOMAF) is the novel that shatters that and rebuilds something even greater. Feyre has changed both inside and out due to the events of the first book, and her emotional and physical growth is a realistic and compelling transformation.
As Feyre navigates a new world, new powers, and new relationships, Maas takes storytelling to a whole new level. The romance shifts, the stakes skyrocket, and every twist and turn is shocking.
Why You’ll Love It:
- Insane character growth
- Rhysand.
- Velaris, a dark and beautiful fantasy setting
- A perfectly executed slow-burn romance that will wreck you
- Twists, betrayals, and epic moments that hit hard
ACOMAF isn’t just a sequel, it’s an experience. It’s the book that broke rating scales, left readers emotionally devastated (in the best way), and proved that Maas is a fantastic storyteller.
A Court of Wings and Ruin: The Epic Conclusion
War is coming, and every moment in A Court of Wings and Ruin (ACOWAR) builds up to an explosive, high-stakes finale. The first half carefully sets up everything that has been brewing for two books: alliances, betrayals, and sacrifices, and the second half is an emotional whirlwind of battles, surprises, and heart-pounding action.
While ACOMAF holds a special place in many readers’ hearts, ACOWAR is still filled with all the feels: fear, heartbreak, laughter, and awe at this world. The relationships, friendships, and character dynamics feel so incredibly real that you’ll find yourself completely invested in every interaction.
Why You’ll Love It:
- A high-stakes, action-packed finale
- The most intense battle scenes of the series
- Emotional moments that will have you tearing up (or just openly sobbing)
- A satisfying yet open-ended conclusion
Even weeks after reading, you’ll find yourself wanting to return to this world. ACOWAR ties up the trilogy beautifully while leaving just enough open threads to make you crave more.
Why This Series Deserves the Hype
- It’s the perfect romantasy
- Feyre’s character growth is among the best in any fantasy series
- The side characters are so well-developed that you’ll want books about all of them
- Sarah J. Maas knows how to create emotional devastation, and we love her for it
Whether you’re here for the romance, the action, or the intricate world-building, A Court of Thorns and Roses delivers on every level.