Photo Cred: Valerie Gillian

So, you’re trying to get into the ACOTAR series but don’t know where to start. Look no further! Here is your guide to all things ACOTAR. Note: There will be a LOT of spoilers. You have been warned! 

Setting: ACOTAR occurs in Prythian, a realm of magic and dark secrets. It is ruled over High Fae, who are called the High Lords. The main population is called Faeries, but they are not what you typically think of. Most do not have wings, nor are they tiny. They are human size and have most human characteristics. The only semblance to what you think of a fairy are their pointy ears. Most of the population of Prythian are faeries, high and lesser, and there are monsters and other wicked creatures. There are also humans, but they mostly call them mortals, as Faeries are immortal (for the most part).  You’ll learn more as you read! But let’s get back to Pyrthian in general. It is divided into seven courts. You have four seasonal courts and three solar courts; each is ruled by their High Lord as follows: 

• The Spring Court: Ruled by Tamlin, known for its vibrant beauty.

• The Summer Court: Ruled by Tarquin, a realm of eternal summer.

• The Autumn Court: Ruled by Beron, shrouded in mystery and intrigue.

• The Winter Court: Ruled by Kallias, a realm of eternal winter.

• The Day Court: Ruled by Helion, known for its academic pursuits.

• The Night Court: Ruled by Rhysand, veiled in shadows and secrets.

• The Dawn Court: Ruled by Thesan, known for its healing powers. 

Now that you know about Pyrthian, let’s get into the books themselves! 

Book One: A Court of Thorns and Roses (ACOTAR)

The first book sets the stage for the series, but don't be disheartened if it initially feels more like a traditional fairy tale. The story evolves dramatically in subsequent books, with more profound character development, intricate plotlines, and surprising twists.

You follow the story from the perspective of Feyre Archeron (pronounced as Fey-Ruh), a nineteen-year-old impoverished human. A skilled hunter who accidentally kills a faerie wolf while hunting for her family's survival. As punishment, she is taken to Prythian by Tamlin, the High Lord of the Spring Court, to live out her days. As she is there, we meet characters like Lucien and Alis, where she soon finds friendship and love. However, she soon discovers that Tamlin and his court are hiding dark secrets about a curse set upon Pyrthian. Feyre finds herself embroiled in a deadly game of politics and power created by a High Fae called Amarantha. Read as Feyre is forced through trials to break the curse Amarantha has created and set Pyrthian free. 

Book Two: A Court of Mist and Fury (ACOMAF)

The second book is arguably most readers’ favorite in this series. We are still in Feyre’s point of view as she navigates her relationship with Tamlin and Rhysand in the unbound world of Pyrthian. 

After the traumatic events of the first book, Feyre struggles with her mental and emotional well-being. She finds solace and empowerment in the company of Rhysand (pronounced Reese-and), the enigmatic High Lord of the Night Court, who offers her a chance at freedom and self-discovery. As Feyre learns to harness her newfound powers, she becomes entangled in the machinations of Prythian's courts and uncovers shocking truths about her past. Alongside Rhysand and his Inner Circle, Feyre must confront formidable enemies and make difficult choices that will shape the fate of their world.

Book Three: A Court of War and Ruin (ACOWAR)

The third book will have you on the edge of your seat the entire read. Still, in Feyre’s point of view, she must decide the fate of the world. 

War looms on the horizon as Prythian faces the threat of Hybern, a kingdom intent on conquering the faerie realms. Feyre, now a pivotal figure in the struggle for peace, must rally allies from across the courts to stand against Hybern's forces. As alliances are forged and battles are fought, Feyre grapples with her own inner demons and confronts the consequences of her choices. With the fate of Prythian hanging in the balance, Feyre and her friends must summon all their courage and strength to protect everything they hold dear.

Book Four: A Court of Frost and Starlight (ACOFAS) 

With all the reading of war and everything in ACOWAR, the Frost and Starlight book is nice and easy. This is the shortest of the series as it serves as a novella to help shift readers into a change of perspectives. 

Set after the events of the war, A Court of Frost and Starlight offers a glimpse into the lives of Feyre, Rhysand, and their friends as they seek healing and renewal. As they prepare for the Winter Solstice celebrations, tensions simmer beneath the surface, and old wounds threaten to reopen. Amidst the festivities, secrets are revealed, bonds are strengthened, and new beginnings take shape. A Court of Frost and Starlight serves as an interlude between the events of the war and the challenges that lie ahead for Feyre and her companions.

Book Five: A Court of Silver Flames (ACOSF) 

The change of perspectives might throw readers off-guard and make them a bit disappointed, as the story is no longer told from Feyre’s perspective. But do not be discouraged, readers! 

In this spin-off novel, Nesta Archeron, Feyre's sister, grapples with the aftermath of the war and her own inner turmoil. Haunted by trauma and guilt, Nesta embarks on a journey of self-discovery, confronting her past and embracing her future. Along the way, she forms unexpected alliances and discovers the healing power of love and redemption. A Court of Silver Flames explores themes of resilience, forgiveness, and the strength found in embracing one's true self. 

Ready to dive into Pyrthian? Here’s a breakdown of where/cost for the series. 

Amazon $57.00 for the series 

*Kindle $37.00 for the series 

Walmart $44.90 for the series 

Target $57.00 for the series 

Barnes & Nobles $95.00

Books a Million $95.00 

*please note that Kindle is for their audiobook listeners 

Authored by Katie Cushing

4/23/24