rating SJM books

As a dedicated SJM reader, I’ve spent countless hours lost in the incredible, intricate worlds crafted by Sarah J. Maas. Her books have a way of gripping you from the first page and refusing to let go, offering everything from epic battles and political intrigue to steamy romance and deep friendships. Like many of you, I've poured over every page of A Court of Thorns and Roses, Throne of Glass, and Crescent City, and it's time to share my honest, personal ranking of these captivating series – from my least favorite to my absolute best! For those just starting their journey or wondering, "what is SJM?" Sarah J. Maas is a powerhouse fantasy author known for her detailed world-building, strong female protagonists, and often mature themes. Her three main series are fantastically interconnected and offer unique reading experiences. My ranking, inspired by countless hours of reading and re-reading, goes like this: #3: Crescent City Series (House of Earth and Blood, House of Sky and Breath, House of Flame and Shadow) Don't get me wrong, I love Crescent City! Bryce Quinlan and Hunt Athalar's story is filled with thrilling action, complex magic, and a mystery that keeps you guessing. However, for me, this series had the steepest learning curve. The initial world-building in House of Earth and Blood felt a bit overwhelming with so many creatures, factions, and a dense modern-fantasy setting. Once I got into it, I was hooked, but it took more effort. The emotional depth and character arcs are phenomenal, but it just didn't grab my heart quite as immediately as my top two. When considering the *House of Earth and Blood age rating*, it’s definitely New Adult (NA) with explicit content, strong language, and graphic violence, making it suitable for mature readers, typically 18+. #2: Throne of Glass Series Oh, Celaena Sardothien! The Throne of Glass series is a magnificent journey of growth, resilience, and epic fantasy. What started as a Young Adult (YA) assassin story blossomed into a sprawling saga with a vast cast of characters, intricate plots, and truly heartbreaking moments. I adored watching Celaena evolve into Aelin Galathynius, and the world expanded beautifully with each book. The character development, especially for side characters, is some of SJM’s best work. My main reason for it not being number one is perhaps the sheer length and occasional pacing dips, but it’s still an absolute masterpiece. For the *age rating for Throne of Glass*, the earlier books start as strong YA (14+), but as the series progresses, especially from Queen of Shadows onwards, it shifts towards New Adult themes, including more mature romance and violence, making later books more appropriate for 16+ or even 17+. #1: A Court of Thorns and Roses Series (ACOTAR) This series holds my heart! A Court of Thorns and Roses is where I first fell in love with SJM's writing. The blend of fae mythology, romance, and adventure is simply intoxicating. Feyre Archeron's journey from a human huntress to a powerful High Lady is incredibly compelling, and the relationships (especially in the later books) are *chef's kiss*. The world of Prythian is easy to get lost in, and the emotional stakes always feel incredibly high. It's the series I re-read most often and the one I recommend to everyone looking for a fantastic romantic fantasy. Pacing, character dynamics, and world-building all hit a sweet spot for me. Regarding Court of Thorns and Roses common sense media and general age ratings, ACOTAR is firmly New Adult (NA). It features significant explicit romantic scenes, violence, and mature themes, typically recommended for readers aged 17 or 18 and up. Parents should definitely check specific book reviews for detailed content warnings if considering it for younger readers. So, that’s my personal SJM book ranking, from least to best! It was tough to choose, as I adore all of them. How would you rate these books? Do you agree with my list, or is your ranking completely different? I'd love to hear your thoughts and engage in some bookish discussion!