Free Audiobook : House of Flame and Shadow (Crescent City, Book 3), by Sarah J. Maas
14 February 2025
Free Audiobook : Catwoman – Soulstealer, by Sarah J. Maas
14 February 2025
If you’re a fantasy lover looking to immerse yourself in a gripping, beautifully written series with romance, adventure, and a fascinating world, A Court of Thorns and Roses (ACOTAR) by Sarah J. Maas is a perfect choice. Whether you’re new to the series or a seasoned reader returning for a re-listen, the audiobook versions provide a dynamic and immersive experience that brings the characters and the magical world of Prythian to life. But what’s the best order to listen to the ACOTAR audiobooks? Should you follow the release order or chronological order?
This guide will help you navigate the ACOTAR audiobook series, so you can fully enjoy the captivating storytelling and rich character development at the right pace.
What is A Court of Thorns and Roses (ACOTAR)?
Before diving into the order, let’s provide a brief overview for those who are new to the series. A Court of Thorns and Roses is a New Adult fantasy romance series that blends elements of Beauty and the Beast, The Hades and Persephone Myth, and classic fae folklore. The series follows Feyre Archeron, a young huntress who is taken to the magical land of Prythian after killing a faerie wolf in the woods. Her journey leads her into a world of love, war, magic, and political intrigue that changes her destiny forever.
The series is known for its compelling characters, slow-burn romance, steamy scenes, and intense action, making it one of the most beloved fantasy series in recent years.
Listening to the ACOTAR Audiobooks in Order
If you’re listening to the ACOTAR series in audiobook format, it’s crucial to follow the right order to understand the characters’ development and the world-building progression. Here’s the best way to listen to the ACOTAR audiobooks:
1. A Court of Thorns and Roses (Book 1)
- Narrator: Jennifer Ikeda
- Listening Length: ~16 hours
- Why Start Here? This is where the story begins, introducing us to Feyre Archeron and her first encounter with the High Lords of Prythian. The novel establishes the world-building, introduces key characters like Tamlin, Lucien, and Rhysand, and sets up the major conflicts of the series.
2. A Court of Mist and Fury (Book 2)
- Narrator: Jennifer Ikeda
- Listening Length: ~23 hours
- Why It’s Important: This book takes the series to another level, with Feyre’s transformation, her time in the Night Court, and her evolving relationship with Rhysand. It’s arguably one of the most beloved books in the series due to its deep emotional and romantic development.
3. A Court of Wings and Ruin (Book 3)
- Narrator: Amanda Leigh Cobb
- Listening Length: ~25 hours
- Why You Can’t Skip It: This book is the climax of Feyre’s journey and the war against Hybern. It’s action-packed, emotional, and brings many character arcs to a resolution. The shift in narrators (from Jennifer Ikeda to Amanda Leigh Cobb) can take some getting used to, but the story remains engaging.
4. A Court of Frost and Starlight (Book 3.5 – Novella)
- Narrator: Amanda Leigh Cobb
- Listening Length: ~6 hours
- Why Listen to This? While it’s a novella and not a full-length novel, it provides a transition between the original trilogy and the next books. It explores Feyre and Rhysand’s life after the war and sets the stage for the next major story arc.
5. A Court of Silver Flames (Book 4)
- Narrator: Stina Nielsen
- Listening Length: ~26 hours
- Why It’s Different: Unlike the previous books, this novel follows Nesta Archeron, Feyre’s sister, and her journey of healing, love, and redemption with Cassian. It’s darker, more mature, and contains significant character growth, making it an emotional rollercoaster for fans.
Should You Follow Release Order or Chronological Order?
The release order (as listed above) is the best way to experience the series because it follows the natural character development and major story arcs. However, if you’re doing a re-listen and want a different perspective, you could listen in chronological order:
- A Court of Thorns and Roses (Book 1)
- A Court of Mist and Fury (Book 2)
- A Court of Wings and Ruin (Book 3)
- A Court of Silver Flames (Book 4) – Since it has flashbacks, some fans like to place it before Frost and Starlight.
- A Court of Frost and Starlight (Book 3.5)
Most first-time listeners will benefit from release order rather than chronological order, as it prevents spoilers and maintains the intended storytelling flow.
Are You Listening to ACOTAR?
Have you listened to the ACOTAR audiobooks? Which was your favorite narrator or book? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
