The undisputed queen of the romantasy genre, Sarah J Maas, has sent shockwaves through the literary world with a major announcement. In a recent appearance on Alex Cooper's Call Her Daddy podcast, Maas confirmed not one, but three new books in the viral A Court of Thorns and Roses (ACOTAR) series, with pre-orders already live for eager fans.
Release Dates and Pre-Order Details
Maas disclosed that ACOTAR book six is slated for release on 27 October 2026, followed closely by book seven on 12 January 2027. An eighth book is also in the works, though no release date has been set yet. The author noted that covers and titles for the upcoming installments remain under wraps, with more details expected soon. She explained the delay, saying, "It's been a long time coming... it took me a long time to write, just because there were enough things going on in my life that I had to sort through. It took me a while to find the right story and to be in the right head space. And then what poured out of me was this, and it poured out very quickly."
Plot Insights and Structural Changes
On the podcast, Maas revealed that book six grew so extensive it had to be split into four parts. Part one will comprise book six, parts two and three will be in book seven, and part four will form book eight. She emphasized that these should be read as one massive story, rather than a traditional trilogy. Maas teased plot elements, including the revelation of fan-favourite character Mor's powers and a potential redemption arc for Tamlin, handled sensitively due to readers' personal experiences. While she avoided further spoilers, speculation suggests books six and seven may focus on Elain Archeron, exploring her mating bond with Lucien and connection to Azriel.
TV Adaptation Update
In exciting news for fans, Maas confirmed she has reclaimed the rights to ACOTAR after the Hulu adaptation fell through. "I have the rights back to everything," she stated. "I want to be in charge... I want to see it adapted the way I envisioned it and I know fans have envisioned it." However, casting challenges persist, particularly for heartthrob Rhys. Maas admitted, "I'm yet to find my perfect Rhys… I can't be forced to pick someone. It needs to be organic."
ACOTAR Series Overview
Dominating TikTok, bookshop shelves, and global bestseller lists, ACOTAR has become a cornerstone of romantic fantasy since its debut a decade ago. With millions of Goodreads ratings and a dedicated fanbase, the series blends fairies, magical powers, and enemies-to-lovers storylines that resonate deeply with Gen Z and millennials. For many, it serves as a gateway into the genre, thanks to its mainstream appeal and expertly crafted character arcs.
Reading Order for Newcomers and Fans
Whether refreshing your memory or diving in for the first time, here's the recommended reading order for the ACOTAR series:
- A Court of Thorns and Roses: Introduces Feyre in the human realm, leading to her capture in the faerie lands and a budding romance with Tamlin.
- A Court of Mist and Fury: Follows Feyre's immortal life and growing connection with Rhysand in the night court.
- A Court of Wings and Ruin: Continues the war effort as Feyre gathers intelligence against Tamlin and the King of Hybern.
- A Court of Frost and Starlight: A novella focusing on rebuilding after the war, set during the winter solstice.
- A Court of Silver Flames: Shifts to Nessa and Cassian's enemies-to-lovers arc, exploring themes of recovery and redemption.
As anticipation builds for the new releases, Maas's updates promise to keep the ACOTAR universe thriving, with fresh narratives and a potential TV adaptation on the horizon.
