We’ve all seen it on BookTok, the famous “A Court of Thorns and Roses” by Sarah J. Maas. This past December, we read it in our book club here at Unwritten, and the reviews are mixed, to say the least. Many have deemed it the gateway into fantasy for those who were big readers in school but burned out before graduation, while others DNF’d it. I personally read not only “A Court of Thorns and Roses” but the entire ACOTAR series and enjoyed it immensely. So, here are three reasons to read the series and three reasons NOT to read it—and no, I won’t be giving any spoilers. The choice is yours, my friend.
Reasons to Read It:
1. Plot Twists
Starting off, I’ll say that most of the series’ plot twists don’t happen until towards the end of the books. The first half of ANY Sarah J. Maas book can be a tad hard to get into, but by the end, you won’t want to put it down. The book’s first part lays the foundation, providing a lot of background knowledge and character development, which enhances the emotional payoff later. If you love being blindsided by twists that hit hard, you’ll be rewarded for your patience.
2. The Characters
One of Maas’s strongest points is her character development. She provides enough backstory and depth to keep you invested in each character’s journey. Even minor characters are well fleshed out, with clear motivations and arcs. This series contains morally gray characters, so don’t expect simple heroes and villains. While some are clearly “bad,” the motivations behind their actions are far more complex, and that’s part of what makes the character dynamics so engaging. “A Court of Thorns and Roses” offers an ensemble of characters you’ll grow to care for, even if some leave you wanting more answers, but that’s part of the series’ allure. This is an unfinished series with a lot of potential, so I’m hopeful we’ll get the answers we’re seeking—just not yet.
3. The Politics
The political intrigue in ACOTAR is another reason to pick it up. As the story unfolds, you’ll discover a richly built world where different courts and factions rule, each with its own dynamics, rules, and power struggles. It’s a layered story of betrayal, alliances, and long-held grudges, adding depth to the plot. If you enjoy reading about complex political systems where no one is fully trustworthy and every decision could have far-reaching consequences, you’ll appreciate this series element.
Reasons NOT to Read It:
1. Slow Pacing in the Beginning
I’ll be honest: the pacing in the first half of the first book can feel like a slog. If you prefer fast-paced action and can’t stand waiting for the buildup, you might find it challenging to stick with the series. The first book takes its time establishing the world and relationships, which is essential for understanding the later events, but this slower pace might be off-putting for readers who crave instant gratification.
2. Repetitive Themes
For some readers, the recurring themes throughout the series may start to feel repetitive. The tension between forbidden love, sacrifice, and power struggles can sometimes seem like the same song with a different verse. While these themes are core to the series, they may not resonate with readers looking for something more fresh or unpredictable in their fantasy reads.
3. Predictable Tropes
Let’s face it: there are some classic fantasy tropes at play here—love triangles, forbidden romances, magical beings with mysterious pasts, and more. If you’re tired of these tropes, ACOTAR might not be for you. While Maas does a good job of making them her own, they still might feel a bit familiar or overdone, especially if you’ve already read a lot of YA or fantasy novels. This might not hit the mark for those who crave a completely unique story.
Final Thoughts:
Ultimately, whether or not you’ll love “A Court of Thorns and Roses” depends on what you’re looking for in a fantasy series. If you enjoy character-driven stories, intricate world-building, and emotional plot twists, this might be the perfect series for you. But if you’re someone who values fast-paced action, dislikes repetitive themes, or isn’t a fan of common fantasy tropes, you might not get as much out of it. But remember, it’s a series with plenty of books to go, and if you choose to dive in, you’ll be entering a world filled with magic, intrigue, and unforgettable moments. The choice is yours!
Featured image via Andrea Piacquadio on Pexels
