Sarah J. Maas’s A Court of Thorns and Roses series, often abbreviated as ACOTAR, is a fantasy romance epic that has captured the hearts of readers around the world. Including mine. Spanning love, war, and political intrigue, the series grows exponentially stronger with each book, making it a thrilling ride for fans of fantasy and romance alike.
✨Book 1: A Court of Thorns and Roses – 3.5 Stars✨
The first book in the series introduces Feyre Archeron, a mortal huntress who is dragged into the faerie lands of Prythian after killing a wolf that was, unbeknownst to her, a fae. Here, she meets Tamlin, the High Lord of the Spring Court, and becomes entangled in a Beauty-and-the-Beast-style romance while unraveling the curse plaguing his lands.
While A Court of Thorns and Roses does a decent job setting up the world and characters, it often feels weighed down by its pacing. The first half of the book is slow, focusing heavily on Feyre’s adjustment to the Spring Court. Though the latter half picks up with darker, high-stakes moments under the mountain with Amarantha, the villain, much of the story feels predictable and trope-heavy.
Feyre’s character in this installment is admirable but not yet dynamic, and her relationship with Tamlin is more surface-level than emotionally compelling. However, Maas’s vivid descriptions of the fae courts and her ability to blend romance with danger make this book a solid starting point. It teases the potential of something greater, even if it doesn’t fully deliver on it yet.
🌙Book 2: A Court of Mist and Fury – 5 Stars🌙
If the first book introduces the world, A Court of Mist and Furyexpands it tenfold. This sequel is widely regarded as one of the best in the genre, and for good reason. After the traumatic events under the mountain, Feyre’s character development takes center stage. Her journey toward self-discovery, healing, and empowerment is masterfully written, making her one of the most relatable and inspiring fantasy heroines.
The romance between Feyre and Rhysand, the High Lord of the Night Court, is a slow-burn masterpiece. Their dynamic is full of tension, growth, and mutual respect, a refreshing contrast to the more one-dimensional romance in the first book. The introduction of the Night Court’s inner circle—Mor, Cassian, Azriel, and Amren—adds depth and heart to the story.
Maas’s worldbuilding also shines in this installment, particularly her descriptions of Velaris, the City of Starlight. The book seamlessly blends action, romance, and political intrigue, setting the stage for the larger conflicts to come.
🖤Books 3-5: A Court of Wings and Ruin, A Court of Frost and Starlight, and A Court of Silver Flames – 5 Stars Each🖤
The subsequent books continue to raise the stakes, delivering intense battles, heart-wrenching moments, and satisfying resolutions for the characters. A Court of Wings and Ruin is a thrilling conclusion to Feyre’s arc, filled with epic battles and emotional payoffs. A Court of Frost and Starlight serves as a quieter interlude, offering a glimpse into the aftermath of war and setting the stage for new stories.
Nesta’s journey in A Court of Silver Flames is a standout, tackling themes of grief, healing, and self-acceptance with brutal honesty. Maas gives Nesta the space to grow into one of the most complex characters in the series. While I am in no way Nesta’s biggest fan, and I feel like in many ways her arch is still far from complete, there is no denying the intricacies of her character.
✨Final Thoughts✨
While A Court of Thorns and Roses starts as a standard fantasy romance, the series evolves into something extraordinary. Maas’s ability to craft multi-dimensional characters, intricate plots, and deeply emotional connections is unparalleled. The first book may not blow you away, but stick with it—this series is worth every page.
✨Overall Series Rating: 5 Stars✨
100% one of my absolute favorite series of all time. I cannot wait for future installments.
Recommendation: Perfect for fans of romance, fantasy, and character-driven stories. Prepare to laugh, cry, and fall in love with the world of Prythian.