Sarah J. Maas is set to significantly broaden the universe of A Court of Thorns and Roses (ACOTAR), delivering two new novels in rapid succession and hinting at even more to come. This expansion promises to reshape the landscape of romantasy and captivate fans across the United States.
The author revealed on the Call Her Daddy podcast on March 4, 2026, that she will release two new ACOTAR installments: the sixth book on October 27, 2026, and the seventh on January 12, 2027. Maas described the narrative as one “massive, massive” story spanning four parts, with the first three parts covered in these upcoming volumes . Bloomsbury, the publisher, has responded by raising its profit forecasts for the fiscal year ending February 2027, citing the unprecedented back-to-back release strategy .
A Major Expansion in the ACOTAR Universe
Sarah J. Maas’s announcement marks the most significant expansion of the ACOTAR series since A Court of Silver Flames in 2021. The upcoming books will cover three parts of a larger narrative that grew beyond initial expectations . The first installment alone spans approximately 400 pages, prompting Maas to divide the story into multiple volumes .
This release strategy breaks from traditional trilogy formats and underscores Maas’s ambition to fully explore the depth and complexity of the world she has created. Fans have waited five years for this update, and the announcement brings long-awaited clarity and excitement .
Significance for Fans and the Publishing Industry
The ACOTAR series has become a cornerstone of the romantasy genre, with millions of copies sold worldwide and a fiercely devoted fanbase. In 2024 alone, the series sold over nine million copies in the U.S., despite being backlist titles . The announcement of two new books within a short timeframe has energized the fandom and revitalized interest in the series.
Bloomsbury’s decision to raise profit projections reflects the commercial weight of the ACOTAR brand. Publishing two novels within 11 weeks from a bestselling author is nearly unprecedented and signals confidence in the series’ continued success .
What Lies Ahead: Structure, Story, and Speculation
A Four-Part Epic Unfolds
Maas has structured the upcoming narrative as a single, sprawling story told across four parts. The sixth book will deliver part one, while the seventh will encompass parts two and three. The fourth part remains unwritten and will likely be released later .
Potential Focus on Elain Archeron
While plot details remain under wraps, fan speculation centers on Elain Archeron as the likely protagonist of the next installment, following the series’ pattern of shifting point-of-view characters to deepen emotional and political layers . Maas has previously hinted at Elain’s story being “delicate and explosive” .
Multiverse Connections
The ACOTAR universe is part of a broader Maas multiverse that includes Crescent City. Notably, the upcoming fourth Crescent City novel will feature a crossover set within the ACOTAR world . This interconnected storytelling enhances the scope and appeal of Maas’s literary universe.
Industry and Creative Implications
Publishing Innovation
Maas’s back-to-back release strategy challenges conventional publishing norms. Bloomsbury’s optimism about fiscal performance underscores the commercial viability of this approach .
Creative Freedom and Authorial Vision
By structuring the narrative across multiple volumes, Maas gains the flexibility to explore complex themes and character arcs without being constrained by traditional trilogy pacing .
Fan Engagement and Speculation
The announcement has reignited fan discussions across social media platforms, with theories about character arcs, plot direction, and crossover potential dominating forums and BookTok .
Future Developments and Adaptations
TV Adaptation Status
While a TV adaptation was previously in development with Hulu, the project fell through in 2025. Maas now holds the rights and has indicated that any future adaptation would require her full creative involvement . Given the complexity of adapting such a sprawling narrative, a screen version may still be years away.
What Comes After ACOTAR?
Maas is contracted for additional books across her series, including Crescent City and potentially new worlds . The fourth Crescent City novel is on the horizon, and Maas has hinted at a secretive new project beyond ACOTAR .
Conclusion
Sarah J. Maas’s announcement that the world of ‘A Court of Thorns and Roses’ will expand in a big way marks a pivotal moment for the series and the romantasy genre. With two new books scheduled for October 27, 2026, and January 12, 2027, Maas is delivering a bold, multi-part narrative that promises depth, drama, and emotional resonance. The commercial and creative implications are significant, from Bloomsbury’s raised profit forecasts to the renewed energy within the fan community. As Maas continues to build her multiverse, readers can anticipate a rich, interconnected future for Prythian and beyond.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the release dates for the new ACOTAR books?
The sixth book is scheduled for October 27, 2026, and the seventh will follow on January 12, 2027 .
How is the new ACOTAR story structured?
The narrative is a single, expansive story divided into four parts. The sixth book covers part one, the seventh covers parts two and three, and part four remains to be written .
Who might be the protagonist of the upcoming books?
While not confirmed, fan speculation and past hints suggest Elain Archeron may be the central character in the next installment .
Will there be a TV adaptation of ACOTAR?
A previous adaptation with Hulu fell through in 2025. Maas now holds the rights and has stated any future adaptation would require her full creative involvement .
Are there other related projects in Maas’s universe?
Yes. A fourth Crescent City novel is planned, and Maas has hinted at a new, undisclosed project beyond ACOTAR .
Why is this expansion significant?
This marks the first major ACOTAR expansion since 2021, with a unique back-to-back release strategy that has energized fans and boosted publisher confidence .
