Should I Read Throne Of Glass Or Crescent City First: Complete Guide & Key Details

So, you've heard the buzz. Everyone's talking about Sarah J. Maas. Two of her biggest series are Throne of Glass and Crescent City. They're both amazing, but they're also super different. This can make picking your first adventure a little tricky. Let's break it down and help you decide where to dive in!

Throne of Glass: A Fantasy Epic

Imagine a world of magic, fierce warriors, and a hidden kingdom. That’s the vibe with Throne of Glass. This series throws you headfirst into a sprawling fantasy world with all the trimmings. Think castles, ancient prophecies, and epic battles. It's got a classic fantasy feel, but with a Sarah J. Maas twist, of course.

The main character is Celaena Sardothien. She’s not your average princess, oh no. She's a notorious assassin, but she's also got a heart of gold (sometimes!). She’s forced into a deadly competition to become the King’s Champion. Talk about high stakes!

What makes Throne of Glass so darn entertaining? For starters, the characters are incredible. You’ll fall in love with Celaena’s snarky wit and fierce independence. Then there are the supporting characters – a cast of morally grey princes, loyal friends, and powerful beings. You’ll find yourself rooting for them, crying with them, and maybe even getting a little angry at them. It’s a whole emotional rollercoaster!

The plot is a slow burn, building layer by layer. It starts with this thrilling competition, but it quickly expands into a much bigger story. There’s political intrigue, forbidden romance, and secrets that will keep you up all night. The magic system is intricate and unfolds beautifully over the series. You’ll be trying to figure it all out right alongside the characters.

If you love:

• High fantasy worlds
• Assassin heroines
• Slow-burn romances
• Epic quests and world-saving stakes

Then Throne of Glass is probably your jam. It's a journey that builds and builds, and by the end, you’ll feel like you've lived through it all with the characters. It’s a commitment, for sure, as it's a seven-book series (plus a prequel novella collection!), but trust me, it’s worth every page.

Crescent City: Urban Fantasy with a Modern Kick

Now, let's switch gears to Crescent City. This series is like a whole different beast, and in the best way possible. Imagine a city that pulses with magic, but it looks a lot like our world. Think neon lights, bustling streets, and supernatural beings trying to live their best lives (or sometimes, their worst).

Our guide into this world is Bryce Quinlan. She’s a half-Fae, half-human woman who’s dealing with some serious grief. When a horrific crime rocks her city, she finds herself tangled up in a mystery that’s way bigger than she ever imagined.

What makes Crescent City so wildly entertaining? It’s the perfect blend of fantasy and modern-day life. You’ll see angels, demons, shifters, and all sorts of magical creatures navigating a world that feels strangely familiar. The dialogue is snappy and hilarious. Bryce is a queen of witty comebacks, and her banter with other characters is pure gold.

The pacing in Crescent City is generally faster. It throws you into the action from the get-go. The mysteries are thrilling, and the twists? Oh, the twists! Sarah J. Maas is a master of surprise, and she really lets loose in this series. You'll be guessing until the very last page.

And let's talk about the romance. While Throne of Glass has slow-burn, Crescent City brings a different kind of heat. It's intense, passionate, and totally swoon-worthy. The relationships feel incredibly real, even with all the supernatural drama.

If you love:

• Urban fantasy settings
• Strong female leads with a bit of a wild side
• Fast-paced mysteries
• A mix of magic and modern life
• Intense and steamy romance

Then Crescent City is likely your next obsession. It’s a trilogy (so far!), making it a bit more approachable if you’re not ready for a massive commitment right away. It’s also a fantastic gateway into the Sarah J. Maas universe if you’re new to her writing.

So, Which One First?

Honestly? You can’t go wrong either way. But here’s a little nudge:

Choose Throne of Glass if: You want to dive deep into a classic, epic fantasy world and you don't mind a longer series. You enjoy a story that builds gradually and features grand adventures.

Choose Crescent City if: You prefer a modern, urban fantasy setting and a faster pace. You’re looking for a thrilling mystery with plenty of twists and a punchy, contemporary feel.

Many fans start with Throne of Glass because it’s her earlier series, and it really showcases her growth as a writer. Others jump straight into Crescent City because the urban fantasy setting is more immediately accessible. Ultimately, the best way to decide is to read the synopsis for each and see which one sparks your imagination the most. Whichever you choose, prepare for a wild, unforgettable ride!