Brain Chemistry Altering Books: A Deep Dive into the Throne of Glass Series by Sarah J. Maas

If you haven’t read Throne of Glass yet, let me just say—you’re in for an epic ride. If you have read it, then you already know that Sarah J. Maas didn’t just write a fantasy series; she crafted a full-on emotional rollercoaster filled with badass assassins, Fae warriors, snarky witches, and more betrayals than a season of Game of Thrones (but, you know, with better endings).

So, let’s break down what makes this series chef’s kiss perfection, a refresh for old fans and hopefully an opportunity to convince you to read it, you case you haven't yet.

Book Category: Young Adult (YA)
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Spice-Level: 🌶️
(Even though Throne of Glass is a YA series I consider some of the scenes later in the book pretty spicy - age recommended 14+)
Publication Year: 2012

Meet the Chaos Crew (A.K.A. The Main Characters)

At the heart of Throne of Glass is Celaena Sardothien—assassin, book lover, fashion icon, and certified queen of sass. But let’s not forget the other legends that make this series unforgettable:

• Chaol Westfall – The broody Captain of the Guard who is way too serious for his own good.
• Dorian Havilliard – "Princeling" Prince Charming, but with actual personality and some serious secrets.
• Rowan Whitethorn – Fae warrior, professional grump, and the definition of loyalty to his forever "Fireheart".
• Manon Blackbeak – A literal witch who could step on you, and you'd thank her!
• Aelin Galathynius – She’s Celaena... but ✨ elevated ✨ (you’ll see).

(Oh, and of course, we can’t forget Fleetfoot and Abraxos—the real MVPs of the series. Protect them at all costs!).

A World as Wild as the Plot Twists

Sarah J. Maas doesn’t just build worlds—she immerses you in them. From the deadly glass castle of Adarlan to the magical forest of the "promised land" Terrasen, every kingdom, island, and battlefield is full with details. The world building is fenomenal and not that overwhelming (like SJM other series, Crescent City, for example).

Magic? Suppressed and forbidden at first, but trust me, that does not last. (This is SJM we’re talking about—magic explosions are inevitable.) Between the Fae, witches, wyrdmarks, and a certain fire-wielding queen, this world is layered with so much history and lore that even scholars would need a study guide.

Key Themes (a.k.a. Why This Series Will Ruin You in the Best Way)

Besides the heart-pounding action, Throne of Glass hits us with themes that cut deep:

• Identity & Destiny – Who you are vs. who you’re meant to be (Celaena knows all about this struggle). The series makes anyone believe they "can rattle the stars"!
• Power & Corruption – A series full of rulers, rebels, and morally grey decisions? Yes, please.
• Found Family – The squad that fights together stays together "To Whatever End". The way characters lives intertwines is absolutely incredible.
• Survival & Strength – Because this series does not hold back on putting characters through the absolute wringer. Yes, Throne of Glass will make you cry, so your wipes close by. (I even made this Funny Instagram Reels to explain the emotional damage while reading the series).

Plot Structure: My Thoughts on The Right Reading Order for TOG

This is a BIG series and a bit commitment, but I promise it deserves all the hype. It starts with a deadly competition (Hunger Games but make it royal) and ends with a full-scale, heart-wrenching war. For the best experience, MY reading order recommendation is:

• Throne of Glass: (Book 1 - 432 pages)
• Crown of Midnight: (Book 2 - 448 pages)
• Heir of Fire: (Book 3 - 592 pages)
• The Assassin's Blade: (Prequel - 464 pages)
• Queen of Shadows: (Book 4 - 672 pages)
• Tandem Read Empire of Storms: (Book 5 - 720 pages) and Tower of Dawn: (Book 6 - 688 pages)
• Kingdom of Ash: (Book 7 - 992 pages)

Why?

• Reading the Assassin's Blade in 4th will create the most emotional impact for the events of Queen of Shadows and it will be much easier to understand the big revelations from Heir of Fire.
• This is actually very similar to the official SJM reading order recommendation, which suggests to read in publication order, being Assassin's Blade as Book 3. This also works really well - just don't read as first in the series, you will be completely lost.
• Tandem reading: The events from these 2 books happens at the same time in different places and Empire of Storms ends in a major cliffhanger, so if you want to avoid waiting a whole big book to find out what happens, do the tandem read.
  I've prepared this Tandem Reading Guide you can print, use as a page marker and enjoy. (You will thank me later!)

Celaena Sardothien: The Glow-Up of the Century

Celaena starts as an arrogant, dagger-wielding assassin with an elite taste in books and fashion. But as the series progresses, we watch her become someone so much more. Her journey is raw, painful, and powerful. She’s proof that resilience, healing, and an occasional dramatic entrance are all part of the process.

The Legacy of Throne of Glass

This fandom does not sleep. Some of the most mind-blowing TOG theories include that all Sarah J. Maas worlds converge at some point in time and space and there's even an ACOTAR Cameo in the last book (it's incredible!).

This series is so much more than fantasy—it’s a full-blown emotional experience. Between the heartbreak, the friendships, and the moments that make you scream into the void, Throne of Glass has solidified itself as a must-read for any fantasy reader.

Also, let’s not forget: it gave us some of the best bookish merch material EVER. 😉 (Speaking of, check out my shop for some Officially Licensed Throne of Glass-inspired goodies!)

💬 My Favorite Quote in the whole series: "My name is Aelin Ashryver Galathynius... and I will not be afraid."

I could scream about this series forever and hopefully I was able to share some of my thoughts! Hope you enjoyed it! Let me know in the comments? 💖📚

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