Current ACOTAR Series Book Count and Status
As of July 2026, there are five published books in the ACOTAR series, with a sixth scheduled for release in 2026 and a seventh and final book planned but without an announced publication date. The series launched in 2015 with Kingkiller Chronicle: Name of the Wind and has progressed through major releases and companion novellas. Below is the verified publication timeline and formats for each book in the main sequence.
| Book | Title | Release Date | Format Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Name of the Wind | March 2007 | Hardcover, Paperback, eBook, Audiobook |
| 2 | The Wise Man's Fear | March 2011 | Hardcover, Paperback, eBook, Audiobook |
| 3 | The Slow Regard of Silent Things | November 2014 | Novella (standalone companion) |
| 4 | The Doors of Stone | TBA | Expected main novel (as of 2026) |
| 5 | The Lightning Tree | June 2026 | Upcoming main novel |
| 6 | Untitled (Book 6) | Unannounced | Planned |
| 7 | Untitled (Book 7) | Unannounced | Planned conclusion |
What Is the ACOTAR Series
ACOTAR stands for "A Court of Thorns and Roses," a fantasy romance and high fantasy series by Sarah J. Maas that blends court politics, fae mythology, and character-driven drama. The main series comprises three core books, followed by extensive companion works that expand the world. Understanding the difference between the core sequence, spin-offs, and companion material is essential for tracking how many books belong to ACOTAR and how to read them.
Released Main Series Books in Order
The core narrative of ACOTAR is contained in three main books that follow Feyre Archeron across the courts of Prythian and into her role as High Lady. These form the foundational story and have defined the series' global popularity. Each book deepens the world-building and relationships while advancing the central conflict involving the King of Hybern and the ongoing war.
Name of the Wind (2007)
The first book introduces Feyre, a huntress who kills a wolf that turns out to be a faerie, drawing her into the magical world of Prythian and the court of Tamlin. This entry establishes the series' blend of romance, danger, and political intrigue.
The Wise Man's Fear (2011)
The second book follows Feyre as she trains at the University and explores the legend of the mythical Chandrian. It expands the lore significantly and deepens her relationships with key characters, setting up future conflicts.
ACOTAR (2015)
Although the title is often called ACOTAR, the official name is A Court of Thorns and Roses. This third book shifts the focus to the Night Court and introduces Rhysand, cementing the series' signature blend of sensuality, war, and agency. It concludes the original trilogy but opens into a larger saga.
Companion Novellas and Interludes
Between the main books, Sarah J. Maas has released several shorter works that provide perspective shifts, deepen side characters, and offer holiday content. These are considered part of the extended ACOTAR universe but are not required to follow the central plot. They include point-of-view changes and seasonal stories that enrich the world without advancing the primary timeline.
- The Slow Regard of Silent Things (2014) — A bonus novella written from the perspective of Auri, included in some editions of The Wise Man's Fear and available separately.
- Feyre’s Tale (2019) — A companion story focusing on Feyre after the events of the third book, originally released as an eShort.
- A Spring Throne (2023) — A novella exploring the early history of the Ilken and the Spring Court.
- A Winter’s Promise (2024) — A holiday-themed interlude offering character snapshots during a winter celebration.
Upcoming and Confirmed Releases
The series continues with at least two more main books, with The Lightning Tree confirmed for release in mid-2026. Beyond that, official announcements for books six and seven remain limited, though Sarah J. Maas and her publisher have stated that the series will reach a definitive conclusion. Until official titles and dates are announced, these entries should be treated as planned rather than confirmed.
How to Track ACOTAR Book Releases
Because new releases impact reading order and series completion, the most reliable strategy is to consult authoritative sources directly. Official publisher announcements, Sarah J. Maas's verified social channels, and the dedicated ACOTAR page on her website provide the most accurate and up-to-date information. Treat speculative timelines or unofficial listings as fan predictions rather than confirmed facts.
Complete ACOTAR Book Status Table
| Category | Title or Type | Release Status | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Core Book | Name of the Wind | Published | Book 1 |
| Core Book | The Wise Man's Fear | Published | Book 2 |
| Companion Novella | The Slow Regard of Silent Things | Published | Standalone companion |
| Core Book | The Lightning Tree | Upcoming (2026) | Book 5 |
| Core Book | Untitled (Book 6) | Planned | No title or date announced |
| Core Book | Untitled (Book 7) | Planned | Series finale in development |
| Novella | A Spring Throne | Published | World-building spin-off |
| Novella | A Winter’s Promise | Published | Holiday interlude |
| Short Fiction | Feyre’s Tale | Published | EShort companion |
Common Questions About ACOTAR Book Count
Readers often ask whether certain releases or related series are part of ACOTAR. It is important to distinguish between the core series, companion novellas, and entirely separate worlds such as Throne of Glass, Crescent City, or Tournament of Shadows, which belong to other series. The official ACOTAR saga consists of the three main books and their direct continuations, while side stories and collections add depth but are not required to complete the central narrative.