Books like ACOTAR (A Court of Thorns and Roses)

Sarah J. Maas’ “A Court of Thorns and Roses” (ACOTAR) series has taken the world by storm, captivating readers with its blend of romance, magic, and epic fantasy.

The series is beloved for its complex characters, intricate world-building, and heart-pounding plot twists. The fantasy genre is rich with books that offer similar thrills, swoon-worthy romances, and immersive worlds.

Explore 17 books that fans of ACOTAR will likely enjoy. These novels feature strong heroines, dangerous love interests, and worlds where magic lurks around every corner.

“Throne of Glass” by Sarah J. Maas

If you loved ACOTAR, start with another Sarah J. Maas’ incredible series, “Throne of Glass” follows the journey of Celaena Sardothien, a deadly assassin with a mysterious past. Set in a world of corrupt empires, ancient magic, this series offers a thrilling ride with plenty of romance and action. Maas’ trademark character development and world-building shine here, making it a must-read for ACOTAR fans.

“An Ember in the Ashes” by Sabaa Tahir

“An Ember in the Ashes” is a gripping tale of rebellion and survival set in a brutal, Roman-inspired world. The story follows Laia, a slave fighting to save her brother, and Elias, a soldier desperate to escape the tyrannical regime. Their paths collide in a deadly struggle for freedom and power. With its intense emotions, forbidden romance, and relentless pace, this series will keep you hooked from start to finish.

“The Cruel Prince” by Holly Black

Holly Black’s “The Cruel Prince” is a dark, enchanting tale set in the treacherous world of Faerie. The story centres on Jude, a mortal girl determined to rise in the ranks of the ruthless Faerie court. The series is filled with political intrigue and a complex, morally ambiguous romance that will leave you breathless. Fans of ACOTAR’s darker elements will find much to love in this twisted fairy tale.

“From Blood and Ash” by Jennifer L. Armentrout

“From Blood and Ash” is a high fantasy romance that has taken the book world by storm. The story follows Poppy, a maiden destined to ascend, whose life is upended when she meets Hawke, a guard with his own secrets. Full of romance, epic battles, and shocking twists, this book offers everything ACOTAR fans love: a strong heroine, a captivating love interest, and a world where nothing is as it seems.

“Serpent & Dove” by Shelby Mahurin

“Serpent & Dove” is a tale of forbidden love between a witch and a witch hunter. Set in a world where magic is outlawed, the story follows Lou, a witch in hiding, and Reid, a witch hunter bound by duty. When circumstances force them into an unlikely marriage, they must navigate their growing feelings and the forces that seek to destroy them. This book offers a compelling blend of romance, action, and magic.

“The Folk of the Air” series by Holly Black

Another hit from Holly Black, “The Folk of the Air” series begins with “The Cruel Prince” but continues to build a dangerous world where mortals and faeries clash. The trilogy follows Jude’s rise to power and her complicated relationship with Cardan, the wicked prince of Faerie. With its sharp political intrigue, complex characters, and tension-filled romance, this series is a fantastic follow-up for ACOTAR fans.

“The Winner’s Curse” by Marie Rutkoski

In “The Winner’s Curse,” Marie Rutkoski introduces readers to a world of political intrigue, war, and forbidden love. The story follows Kestrel, a general’s daughter, who finds herself drawn to a slave named Arin, only to discover that he’s part of a rebel plot against her people. The series is rich in tension, romance, and moral dilemmas, making it a compelling read for those who enjoyed the complex relationships in ACOTAR.

“The Wrath & the Dawn” by Renée Ahdieh

Renée Ahdieh’s “The Wrath & the Dawn” is a retelling of “One Thousand and One Nights,” filled with lush descriptions, rich culture, and an intense romance. The story follows Shahrzad, a young woman who volunteers to marry the murderous Caliph of Khorasan in a bid to avenge her friend. As she unravels the mysteries of the palace, she finds herself torn between vengeance and love. This book is perfect for those who love the epic romance and high stakes of ACOTAR.

“Graceling” by Kristin Cashore

“Graceling” is a fantasy novel set in a world where certain people, known as Gracelings, are born with exceptional abilities. The story follows Katsa, a Graceling with the power to kill, as she uncovers a deadly conspiracy that threatens the realm.

“The Bone Season” by Samantha Shannon

“The Bone Season” is a dystopian fantasy set in a future where clairvoyants are hunted by a mysterious, otherworldly race. The story follows Paige Mahoney, a young clairvoyant who is captured and taken to a secret penal colony. As she fights for her freedom, she uncovers dark secrets about her captors and her own abilities. This series offers a richly detailed world, a strong-willed heroine, and a slow-burn romance.

“The Queen of the Tearling” by Erika Johansen

“The Queen of the Tearling” is a compelling fantasy novel that follows Kelsea Raleigh Glynn, a young princess raised in exile, as she reclaims her throne and fights to save her kingdom from tyranny. The series is filled with political intrigue, magic, and a slow-burn romance that develops over time.

“Shadow and Bone” by Leigh Bardugo

Leigh Bardugo’s “Shadow and Bone” is the first book in the Grisha trilogy, set in a world where magic and military power collide. The story follows Alina Starkov, a soldier who discovers she has a rare and powerful ability that could change the fate of her war-torn country. With its richly imagined world, compelling characters, and a complex romance, this series is a great pick for those who enjoyed the magical elements and intense relationships in ACOTAR.

“Caraval” by Stephanie Garber

“Caraval” is a magical, atmospheric novel that transports readers to a mysterious, immersive game where nothing is as it seems. The story follows Scarlett Dragna, who is invited to the once-a-year performance known as Caraval. But when her sister Tella is kidnapped, the game becomes dangerously real. Full of twists, romance, and a richly imagined setting, “Caraval” is perfect for readers who love the mystery and magic in ACOTAR.

“Daughter of Smoke and Bone” by Laini Taylor

Laini Taylor’s “Daughter of Smoke and Bone” is a beautifully written fantasy novel that blends mythology, magic, and romance. The story follows Karou, an art student in Prague who is drawn into an ancient war between angels and chimaera. With its lyrical prose, complex characters, and epic love story, this book is a must-read for fans of ACOTAR’s intricate world-building and emotional depth.

“Red Queen” by Victoria Aveyard

“Red Queen” is a dystopian fantasy set in a world divided by blood; those with red blood are commoners, while those with silver blood possess god-like abilities. The story follows Mare Barrow, a red-blooded girl who discovers she has a deadly power of her own. As she becomes a pawn in the political games of the Silver elite, she must navigate the treacherous alliances and a burgeoning rebellion. Fans of ACOTAR will enjoy the mix of romance, intrigue, and action in this series.

“Cruel Beauty” by Rosamund Hodge

“Cruel Beauty” is a dark and romantic retelling of “Beauty and the Beast.” The story follows Nyx, a girl who has been betrothed to the evil ruler of her kingdom since birth. Trained to kill him, Nyx enters his castle, only to find herself drawn to the mysterious and enigmatic lord. With its blend of mythology, romance, and dark magic, “Cruel Beauty” is a captivating read for fans of ACOTAR.

“The Poppy War” by R.F. Kuang

“The Poppy War” is a fantasy inspired by Chinese history and mythology. The story follows Rin, a war orphan who rises to power through sheer determination and brutal training. As she becomes embroiled in a devastating war, Rin must grapple with the cost of power and the darkness within herself.

Following these great fantasy novels, ACOTAR fans will have a field day as all these books provide intriguing and immersive experiences in the magical genre of fantasy.

These books tend to increase the imagination power of the readers and the interesting places described in these books will always have a place in the hearts of the readers.

Indulge yourself in the magical genre and become a part of something much more than the Universe.

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