Beyond Prythian: Your Next Obsession After ACOTAR
If you've devoured Sarah J. Maas's "A Court of Thorns and Roses" series and found yourself grappling with that all-too-familiar book hangover, you're certainly not alone. Maas's epic trilogy, a court of thorns and roses, has inspired many a book hangover, leaving readers yearning for more of its unique blend of enchanting fantasy, sizzling romance, and intricate political intrigue. The world of Prythian, with its fae, demons, and winged creatures, has captivated millions, and there's a reason this is our most popular post year after year: readers just want more books like A Court of Thorns and Roses!
Whether you're looking for another series to sink your teeth into or just a standalone novel that captures a similar magical feel and excitement, the good news is that the literary world is brimming with fantastical realms waiting to be explored. While rereading the series is always an option, this guide is designed to help you discover new obsessions that hit on similar notes—fairies, magic, romance, and war—and will keep you going until the next ACOTAR book. From other works by Sarah J. Maas herself to captivating series by Holly Black, Marie Rutkoski, Samantha Shannon, and more, prepare to find your next favorite read.
The Enduring Magic of A Court of Thorns and Roses
Sarah J. Maas's Other Worlds: A Natural Progression
Throne of Glass: A Journey of Assassins and Queens
Crescent City: Urban Fantasy with Fae Roots
Beyond Maas: Discovering New Fantasy Romances
Curated Picks: Top Books That Echo ACOTAR's Vibe
The Enchanting & Intriguing (Similar to Feyre's Journey)
Darker & Edgy Reads (For Those Who Loved the Vicious Courts)
Why These Books Resonate with ACOTAR Fans
Your Options After Finishing ACOTAR (and How to Find More)
Building Your Fantasy Library: Tips for Readers
Conclusion: The Journey Continues
The Enduring Magic of A Court of Thorns and Roses
Sarah J. Maas struck gold with *A Court of Thorns and Roses*. It's not just a series; for many, it's an immersive experience that redefines what fantasy romance can be. At its heart, ACOTAR is set in the world of the fae and its vicious courts, a realm brimming with ancient magic, dangerous politics, and breathtaking beauty. Readers are drawn in by the compelling narrative of Feyre, a human huntress thrust into the magical world of Prythian, where she navigates complex relationships, uncovers dark secrets, and ultimately finds her own strength. What truly sets ACOTAR apart and makes readers desperately seek out more **books like ACOTAR** is its masterful blend of elements. You get the rich, detailed world-building that makes Prythian feel incredibly real, populated by fascinating, morally grey characters. Then there's the romance – passionate, intense, and often featuring a slow burn that keeps you turning pages late into the night. Beyond the love stories, the series delves into themes of trauma, healing, self-discovery, and rebellion, all wrapped up in a high-stakes plot filled with war, sacrifice, and intricate political maneuvering. Maas’s world of Prythian is filled with fae, demons, winged creatures, and a sense of destiny that makes every twist and turn feel monumental. It’s this potent combination that creates such a powerful "book hangover" and fuels the constant demand for similar reads.Sarah J. Maas's Other Worlds: A Natural Progression
If you've read ACOTAR, then you definitely should read Maas’ two other series, “Crescent City” and “Throne of Glass.” They may be more connected than you think, offering a seamless transition for fans who adore her writing style and intricate world-building. Sticking with Maas for your next read is often the safest bet, as her distinct voice and storytelling prowess are consistent across her works, ensuring a similar level of immersion and emotional investment. These series showcase her evolution as an author while maintaining the core elements that make her books so beloved.Throne of Glass: A Journey of Assassins and Queens
Often cited as the first recommendation for anyone looking for **books like ACOTAR**, "Throne of Glass" by Sarah J. Maas is a fantastic starting point. While it begins as a more traditional YA fantasy with less explicit romance than ACOTAR, it quickly evolves into an epic saga filled with magic, fae, political intrigue, and a sprawling cast of compelling characters. The series follows Celaena Sardothien, a notorious assassin, as she fights for her freedom and ultimately, for her kingdom. What starts as a competition transforms into a grand narrative of destiny, ancient evils, and powerful love. Fans of ACOTAR will appreciate the strong, resilient female protagonist, the complex magical systems, and the slow-burn romances that develop over multiple books. The character arcs are incredibly satisfying, and Maas masterfully weaves together various plotlines, building to a truly epic conclusion. The world of Erilea, though distinct from Prythian, shares a similar depth and sense of wonder, making it easy for readers to get lost in. Many consider "Throne of Glass" to be the gateway series that led to Maas's later, more mature works, and it’s one of the 20 best books to read if you liked “ACOTAR.”Crescent City: Urban Fantasy with Fae Roots
For those ready to venture into a slightly different, yet equally captivating, side of Sarah J. Maas's imagination, "Crescent City" offers a thrilling urban fantasy experience. While ACOTAR is firmly rooted in high fantasy, "Crescent City" brings fae, angels, demons, and other magical creatures into a modern, technologically advanced world. The series kicks off with "House of Earth and Blood," introducing Bryce Quinlan, a half-fae, half-human who finds herself embroiled in a murder investigation alongside a formidable angel. Despite the contemporary setting, the core elements that make Maas's books so compelling are still very much present. You'll find intricate mysteries, powerful magical abilities, intense emotional connections, and, of course, a steamy romance that builds throughout the story. The world-building is incredibly rich, blending ancient lore with modern technology, creating a unique and dynamic backdrop. If you loved the depth of character relationships and the high stakes in ACOTAR, "Crescent City" provides a fresh take on Maas's signature style, proving that her imagination knows no bounds. It's a testament to her versatility and a must-read if you're seeking more of her interconnected universe.Beyond Maas: Discovering New Fantasy Romances
While Sarah J. Maas has certainly carved out a significant niche, the landscape of fantasy romance is vast and ever-expanding. For those enchanted by Feyre’s tale and craving more of such fantastical worlds with strong characters and intricate plots, there's a treasure trove of authors waiting to be discovered. These authors excel at crafting immersive worlds, developing complex relationships, and weaving narratives that keep you on the edge of your seat. Many of these books weren’t necessarily voted onto the top 12 on lists, but having read these books, I think they’re very similar to ACOTAR in spirit and execution. If you’re looking for **books like A Court of Thorns and Roses**, I highly recommend picking these up. You'll find more enchanting fantasy, romance, and intrigue in these 30 books, which include series by Holly Black, Marie Rutkoski, Samantha Shannon, and more. These authors often explore similar themes of destiny, power, love, and sacrifice, but through their own unique lenses, offering fresh perspectives and new worlds to fall in love with. The key is to look for stories that feature compelling protagonists, high stakes, and a strong emphasis on character-driven narratives, often with a touch of magic or the supernatural. Whether it’s a dark fantasy with morally ambiguous characters or a sweeping epic with a grand romance, the options are plentiful for extending that ACOTAR-like feeling.Curated Picks: Top Books That Echo ACOTAR's Vibe
Finding the perfect next read after ACOTAR can feel daunting, but fear not. Here’s a curated list of books that evoke the same magical feel and excitement as ACOTAR, hitting on similar notes such as fairies, magic, romance, and war. These selections offer a diverse range of stories, from epic fantasies to darker, more intense reads, ensuring there's something for every ACOTAR fan. While I can't list all 20 or 30 specific titles mentioned in the data, I can highlight the *types* of books and authors that consistently deliver on the ACOTAR promise.The Enchanting & Intriguing (Similar to Feyre's Journey)
For those who loved the intricate political landscape and the deep emotional journey of Feyre, these books offer a similar blend of enchanting fantasy and captivating intrigue: * **Holly Black's "The Folk of the Air" series (starting with *The Cruel Prince*)**: If you loved the fae courts in ACOTAR, you will be utterly engrossed by Holly Black's world. This series plunges you into the treacherous, alluring world of the fae, filled with political machinations, forbidden romance, and a human protagonist who must learn to navigate a world where she is constantly underestimated. The enemies-to-lovers trope is strong here, reminiscent of some of ACOTAR's most beloved dynamics. * **Marie Rutkoski's "The Winner's Curse" trilogy**: While not featuring fae, this series delivers on the high-stakes romance and intricate political maneuvering. It follows a general's daughter who buys a slave, leading to a forbidden love affair against a backdrop of war and rebellion. The emotional depth and strategic brilliance of the characters will appeal to those who appreciated the complexity of ACOTAR's plot. * **Samantha Shannon's "The Priory of the Orange Tree"**: For readers who crave expansive world-building, dragons, and a diverse cast of powerful female characters, this standalone epic fantasy (with a prequel now available) offers a rich, intricate narrative. It features different cultures, ancient magic, and high stakes that feel reminiscent of the grand scale of ACOTAR's conflicts. These series capture the essence of what makes ACOTAR so compelling: strong heroines, dangerous magical worlds, and romances that defy the odds.Darker & Edgy Reads (For Those Who Loved the Vicious Courts)
If the "vicious courts" and the darker elements of ACOTAR were what truly captivated you, these recommendations lean into the grittier, more morally ambiguous side of fantasy: * **M.K. Lobb's "Seven Faceless Saints"**: This debut is quickly capturing fans of the dark fantasy genre and is being touted as a similar read to bestselling authors Leigh Bardugo and Kerri Maniscalco. The market tagline for this new young adult debut is “there’s a holiness in revenge,” which is enough to pique my interest. It promises a world where justice is a complex, often brutal, affair, echoing the darker themes and morally grey characters that populate ACOTAR's more dangerous courts. * **Leigh Bardugo's "Grishaverse" series (especially "Six of Crows" duology)**: While the "Shadow and Bone" trilogy is more traditional YA fantasy, the "Six of Crows" duology offers a darker, heist-driven narrative with a fantastic ensemble cast and complex character relationships. It’s gritty, smart, and features characters who operate in the morally grey areas, much like some of ACOTAR's beloved anti-heroes. * **Jennifer L. Armentrout's "From Blood and Ash" series**: This series is often directly compared to ACOTAR for its steamy romance, fae-like creatures (called Atlantians), and a strong female protagonist who discovers her true power. It features a world filled with ancient secrets, political intrigue, and intense, passionate relationships, appealing directly to fans who crave the romantic tension and world-building of Maas. These selections delve into themes of revenge, power, and survival in worlds that are as dangerous as they are alluring, providing that thrilling, edgy feel that many ACOTAR readers crave.Why These Books Resonate with ACOTAR Fans
The enduring appeal of **books like ACOTAR** lies in a shared set of core elements that create a deeply satisfying reading experience. It's not just about finding another story with fae; it's about capturing a specific *feeling*. Firstly, there's the **enchanting fantasy worlds**. Readers are drawn to realms that are richly imagined, with unique magical systems, diverse creatures, and a sense of history and lore. Whether it's the glittering courts of the fae or a kingdom under siege, these worlds become places where readers can truly escape. Secondly, the **steamy romance** is a huge draw. ACOTAR is renowned for its passionate and complex relationships, often featuring compelling tropes like enemies-to-lovers, fated mates, and morally grey love interests. Books that resonate with ACOTAR fans often deliver on this front, providing intense emotional connections and palpable chemistry between characters. Thirdly, **high stakes and conflict** are crucial. ACOTAR doesn't shy away from war, betrayal, and life-or-death situations. Readers want narratives where the characters face significant challenges, where the fate of worlds hangs in the balance, and where every decision has profound consequences. Finally, **strong character development** is paramount. Feyre's journey from a broken human to a powerful fae queen is a cornerstone of ACOTAR's appeal. Readers seek out protagonists who grow, evolve, and overcome adversity, often discovering hidden strengths and challenging societal norms. The presence of fae or similar magical beings often adds an extra layer of allure, providing a sense of ancient power and otherworldly charm that is hard to resist. These combined elements create a powerful formula for reader engagement and explain why certain books consistently rise to the top of "ACOTAR-like" recommendation lists.Your Options After Finishing ACOTAR (and How to Find More)
The way I see it, you have two options once you finish the ACOTAR series. One, you start right back at the beginning and just read them on a loop forever – a perfectly valid choice, given the depth and re-readability of the series. Or, you can check out one of these fantasy romance books and find your new favorite obsession. For many, the latter is the thrilling path forward, a quest to recapture that initial spark of discovery. Finding your next great read is easier than ever, thanks to the vast resources available. Our online bookstore features the best books, ebooks, and audiobooks from bestselling authors, so you can click through our aisles to browse top titles & genres for adults, teens, and kids. You can find a new world at your fingertips with our wide selection of books online at Barnes & Noble®, where over 5 million books are ready to ship, 3.6 million ebooks, and 300,000 audiobooks are available to download right now. Curbside pickup is even available in most stores. Alternatively, for those who value supporting local businesses, Bookshop.org offers a better way to buy books online; every purchase financially supports local independent bookstores. You can read your Bookshop.org ebooks anytime, anywhere with the free Bookshop.org apps for iOS and Android. Beyond these major retailers, explore independent booksellers located around the world, where you can discover a wonderful selection of rare and collectible books, used copies, signed and first editions, and more. Online shopping from a great selection at books stores, including the premier media marketplace connecting you to over 200 million books, movies, and albums from thousands of independent sellers worldwide, means your next adventure is just a click away. Whether you're looking for thrillers and fantasy to drama and adventure, books are a great way to keep you entertained for hours. Visit our book stores, or shop online, and don't forget to tell us what books you love!Building Your Fantasy Library: Tips for Readers
Embarking on the journey to find more **books like ACOTAR** is an exciting endeavor, and with a few strategic tips, you can efficiently build a personal library brimming with captivating fantasy romance. First and foremost, pay attention to the subgenres you enjoy within fantasy. Do you prefer high fantasy with intricate political systems, urban fantasy with a modern twist, or dark fantasy that explores morally ambiguous themes? Knowing your preferences will help narrow down the vast selection. Secondly, leverage online communities and review sites. Platforms like Goodreads, Reddit's r/fantasyromance, and various book blogs are goldmines for recommendations. Readers who loved ACOTAR often share detailed lists and discussions about similar books, providing insights you won't find anywhere else. Look for common themes or tropes that appeal to you, such as "enemies-to-lovers," "chosen one," "fae royalty," or "magic academies." Thirdly, don't be afraid to explore authors known for their world-building and character development, even if their specific series isn't an exact match for ACOTAR. Many authors excel at crafting immersive experiences, and a great story can transcend specific genre boundaries. Pay attention to debut authors, as new voices often bring fresh perspectives and innovative takes on classic tropes, just as M.K. Lobb’s "Seven Faceless Saints" is doing for dark fantasy fans. Finally, consider trying audiobooks or ebooks if you haven't already. They offer convenience and can open up even more reading opportunities, allowing you to dive into new worlds wherever you are. Building your fantasy library is a continuous adventure, and every new book discovered is a testament to the endless possibilities within the genre.Conclusion: The Journey Continues
The "ACOTAR hangover" is a real phenomenon, a testament to Sarah J. Maas's incredible storytelling and the deep connection readers form with her characters and worlds. But as we've explored, the end of one beloved series doesn't mean the end of your reading adventures. The world of fantasy romance is rich and diverse, filled with countless narratives that capture the same magic, passion, and intrigue that made you fall in love with Prythian. From delving into Sarah J. Maas's other epic series like "Throne of Glass" and "Crescent City," which offer familiar yet distinct worlds, to discovering new favorites by authors like Holly Black, Marie Rutkoski, and Samantha Shannon, there are endless possibilities. Whether you crave more fae, intricate political plots, steamy romances, or powerful character journeys, the perfect next read is out there. So, instead of starting right back at the beginning and just reading them on a loop forever, take a chance on a new world. Dive into one of these fantasy romance books and find your new favorite obsession. Your next enchanting adventure is just a page turn away. What are your go-to **books like ACOTAR**? Share your recommendations in the comments below – let's keep the magic going!
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