RANKING THE ACOTAR SERIES
preface: ACOTAR is my favorite book series. i love each and every book deeply.
5. ACOFAS: I LOVE THIS BOOK DO NOT GET ME WRONG. I do not understand the hate on this book at all. Is it the best one? No. But it’s a wonderful little book and it makes me happy to see my favorite characters happy.
4. ACOTAR - this book hooked me. i remember devouring this so quickly, and i loved tamlin at the time. i remember hearing that i wouldn’t like tamlin so i put off the rest of the series for about a month.
however, looking back there’s obviously some red flags lol. i probably won’t return to this one often.
3. ACOSF: I LOVED this book. I love Cassian, I love Nesta. However, Nesta did have to grow on me a bit and I was frustrated with her decisions a lot.
2. ACOWAR: YES. I SOBBED OVER THIS BOOK. The deception, the stakes, the deaths, the battle, the love, the tension. ALL YES.
1. ACOMAF: my love. nothing can beat this slow burn. rhysand is my baby forever and always.
It's always so much fun (and sometimes a little nerve-wracking!) to share your ACOTAR series ranking, isn't it? As a massive fan, I've spent countless hours debating with friends and online communities about where each of Sarah J. Maas's incredible books truly stands. What I've realized is that a 'ranking' isn't just about 'best to worst'; it's often a reflection of what resonated with us most at a particular time in our lives, and how our perspectives change with each re-read or new release. For instance, when we talk about what makes an ACOTAR book rank higher, it often comes down to a few key elements. Is it the *emotional impact*? For many, A Court of Mist and Fury (ACOMAF) hits differently because of Feyre's journey of healing and self-discovery, and, let's be honest, the undeniable chemistry and deep connection she builds. The slow-burn romance and character growth in ACOMAF are often cited as peak SJM writing. Then there's the *plot and stakes*. A Court of Wings and Ruin (ACOWAR) is a powerhouse in this regard. The sheer scale of the war, the intricate deceptions, and those heart-wrenching moments truly elevate it for many fans. I remember feeling completely drained after finishing ACOWAR, in the best possible way! It felt like the culmination of everything built up in the first two books. Character development is another huge factor. A Court of Silver Flames (ACOSF), for example, was a game-changer for Nesta's character. While some initially struggled with her temperament, seeing her raw vulnerability and her arduous path to healing, alongside Cassian, made her one of the most compelling characters for a lot of us. It brought a much-needed depth to her story, moving beyond just her initial portrayal in A Court of Thorns and Roses. It also expanded the lore in exciting ways! And what about the 'latest' book in your ranking? Even A Court of Frost and Starlight (ACOFAS), which often gets a lot of mixed reviews, holds a special place for many because it's a peek into the aftermath, a chance to simply be with these beloved characters during a quieter time. It's not always about epic battles; sometimes, it's about seeing our favorites happy and thriving, even if just for a moment. Ultimately, revisiting your ACOTAR ranking is a dynamic process. What you love about A Court of Thorns and Roses now, recognizing its foundational role despite its 'red flags', might be different from your initial read. The 'latest' perspective often comes from how the newer books influence our re-evaluation of the older ones. So, whether you're a long-time fan or just starting your journey into Prythian, sharing your personal ranking is a fantastic way to celebrate this incredible series by Sarah J. Maas and connect with fellow readers.
