Sarah J. Maas's sprawling fantasy saga, A Court of Thorns and Roses (ACOTAR), has been making headlines with the recent release of its sixth installment, A Court of Splintered Harmony. But while fans flock to the newest chapter, an older, often-debated volume is quietly stealing the spotlight as the series' most-read title of 2026.
According to data from the Libby reading app, checkouts for A Court of Frost and Starlight have skyrocketed by 37.5% in October 2026 compared to the same period last year. This surge has propelled the 2018 novella past every other book in the series, making it the most popular ACOTAR entry this year. The spike is widely attributed to readers rushing to complete the saga before diving into the newly released A Court of Splintered Harmony.
Set months after the war that ravaged Prythian, A Court of Frost and Starlight follows Feyre, Rhysand, and their inner circle as they rebuild the Night Court and prepare for Winter Solstice. The story also delves into Feyre's adjustment to her role as High Lady, while confronting the emotional scars left by the conflict. Despite its divisive reception—some fans found it slow-paced and lacking in plot—the book's renewed popularity underscores its importance as a bridge between the original trilogy and the ongoing saga.
The readership boost isn't limited to Frost and Starlight. Other ACOTAR titles also saw significant increases in checkouts: the original A Court of Thorns and Roses rose 17.1%, A Court of Mist and Fury climbed 19%, A Court of Wings and Ruin jumped 23.9%, and A Court of Silver Flames was up 26.4%. This collective surge highlights the enduring appeal of Maas's world, even as the series evolves.
The latest installment, A Court of Splintered Harmony, has proven to be a polarizing addition. On Goodreads, it currently holds a 3.88-star rating from over 46,000 reviews. Critics and fans alike have noted a significant tonal shift from the romance-driven narratives of earlier books to a more politically charged, multi-volume arc dubbed "The Valkyrie Cycle." While some readers appreciate the deeper exploration of characters like Azriel and Nesta, others have criticized the book's abrupt cliffhanger ending, which sets up the next installment, A Court of Forgotten Melody, due January 12, 2027.
This mixed reception hasn't dampened enthusiasm for the series. In fact, the renewed interest in Frost and Starlight suggests that even the most contentious entries can find new life when a franchise expands. For those looking to explore more fantasy gems, our list of soft magic systems in fantasy books offers a great starting point.
As ACOTAR continues to grow, it joins a landscape where fantasy adaptations and novels are thriving. Streaming platforms are also capitalizing on the genre, with shows like Prime Video's fantasy gems proving that audiences crave immersive worlds. Whether you're a longtime fan or a newcomer, now is the perfect time to catch up on the series that has captivated millions.
All ACOTAR books, including A Court of Splintered Harmony, are available on Amazon.
