No. Do not start with The Assassin's Blade. Begin with Throne of Glass (book 1) instead.
The novellas are prequels published after the first two main books. They work best once you have some context from the series, and the most common recommendation is to read them after Crown of Midnight.
Why not read it first
- The Assassin's Blade is a prequel collection published after Crown of Midnight - it was written with readers of the main series in mind.
- Some emotional moments in the novellas carry more weight after you have context from the early main series books.
- Starting with a prequel collection before the main story can make it harder to get invested in the world.
- Nothing in the novellas is required to understand or enjoy Throne of Glass.
Reading the novellas first is not a disaster, but most readers report a better experience saving them for later.
Best timing for The Assassin's Blade
After Crown of Midnight (book 2). This is the most common and well-regarded checkpoint.
After finishing the whole series. Many readers save it as a way to extend their time in the world.
Skipping entirely is fine. The main series is complete without it.
Low-regret reading order
The cleanest path through the series:
What to do next
I want the full series overview
See all books, companion novellas, and what order they fit into.
Throne of Glass hub →ACOTAR or Throne of Glass first?
Choosing between the two Sarah J. Maas series? Compare them before you commit.
See the comparison →I finished Throne of Glass
See what ACOTAR looks like and whether to start it next.
ACOTAR reading order →FAQ
Is The Assassin's Blade required to understand Throne of Glass?
No. The main series works without it. The novellas add backstory and emotional depth, but nothing in them is required to follow the main plot.
Can I read The Assassin's Blade before Throne of Glass?
You can, but most readers find it more rewarding after Crown of Midnight. Some context from book 2 makes the novellas land better.
When is the absolute latest I can read The Assassin's Blade?
Any point before finishing the full series is fine. Many readers save it for after Kingdom of Ash as a way to extend their time in the world.
Is this page spoiler-free?
Yes. All recommendations avoid plot details and major reveals.