Sarah J. Maas fans are navigating a whirlwind of emotions in early 2025. While the beloved author confirmed she began writing A Court of Thorns and Roses (ACOTAR) Book 6 after completing House of Flame and Shadow—the latest installment in her Crescent City series—Hulu’s decision to officially cancel its long-anticipated ACOTAR TV adaptation has left many readers disheartened.
This bittersweet news comes nearly four years after the release of A Court of Silver Flames in February 2021, leaving fans wondering when they will next return to the world of Prythian. While Maas’s 2023 four-book publishing deal promised more ACOTAR stories, including the much-anticipated sixth installment, the silence surrounding the project has only fueled the fandom’s impatience.
The ACOTAR TV Adaptation: From Hype to Heartbreak
When Hulu announced its plans to adapt A Court of Thorns and Roses into a television series in 2021, fans were ecstatic. The project, led by Outlander showrunner Ron D. Moore and Maas herself, promised a faithful adaptation of the iconic fantasy romance. With the rise of book-to-screen adaptations (Shadow and Bone, The Witcher, and Throne of Glass rumors circulating), the ACOTAR TV series was poised to be the next big fantasy franchise.
However, industry-wide disruptions, including the 2023 Hollywood writers’ and actors’ strikes, significantly delayed production timelines. Hulu’s shifting content strategy, focusing more on original comedies and reality TV, further placed the ACOTAR adaptation in a precarious position. By February 2025, Hulu officially pulled the plug, confirming that the series would not move forward.
For fans who had envisioned seeing Feyre Archeron’s epic journey through the Spring Court and her romance with Rhysand unfold on screen, the cancellation felt like a major setback. Maas retains the passion for an adaptation, but with Disney’s 20th Television holding the rights until late summer 2025, the project remains in limbo until she can pitch it elsewhere.
ACOTAR Book 6: What’s on the Horizon?
Despite the Hulu disappointment, Maas has made it clear that the ACOTAR universe is far from over. Her 2023 four-book deal included future works in the series, and she has confirmed that Book 6 will follow House of Flame and Shadow.
But what can fans expect from the next ACOTAR installment?
The most popular fan theory suggests that Book 6 will finally focus on Elain Archeron, the last of the Archeron sisters without her own dedicated book. Elain’s mysterious Seer abilities, her strained connection to Lucien, and her complicated relationships with other characters like Azriel have left fans clamoring for more answers.
Yet, Maas is known for her twists. Could she introduce a new villain? Will Elain embrace the darker sides of her power? Some speculate that Book 6 might not focus solely on Elain but could explore broader conflicts threatening Prythian.
Acotar Book 6 Release Date Info
While no official release date has been set for A Court of Thorns and Roses (ACOTAR) Book 6, insiders suggest a timeline of late 2025 or early 2026. Sarah J. Maas has confirmed that she is actively working on the sixth installment but has not provided specific details about the upcoming ACOTAR book. This projection aligns with typical publishing timelines and Maas’s writing schedule. However, until an official announcement is made, these remain speculative estimates.
ACOTAR Beyond the Books: The Power of Fandom
The ACOTAR universe isn’t just about the books—it’s become a cultural phenomenon. The fandom has exploded on social media platforms like TikTok’s BookTok, where the series has been featured in millions of videos, cosplay trends, and fan theories. Popular hashtags like #ACOTAR and #Rhysand routinely trend, introducing new readers to the series daily.
The merchandise scene has also flourished, with everything from Velaris-inspired candles to Night Court jewelry becoming staples in the fandom. Independent artists sell ACOTAR fan art, and Etsy shops brim with themed merchandise that ranges from Fae crowns to personalized bookmarks.
In November 2024, Spotify partnered with Bloomsbury Publishing, bringing all of the ACOTAR audiobooks to its platform. Premium subscribers now have full access, making it easier than ever for new readers to jump into the series.
The Future of ACOTAR: Where Do We Go From Here?
While Hulu’s cancellation of the TV series was a blow, the future of ACOTAR is still wide open. Once Disney’s licensing window closes in late 2025, Maas will have the freedom to seek new partnerships—streaming giants like Netflix or Amazon Prime Video, known for their fantasy adaptations, could become potential homes for the series.
In the meantime, the fandom continues to thrive, eagerly theorizing about Book 6, creating fan content, and holding out hope for a future on-screen adaptation.
Sarah J. Maas has always built her worlds with depth, complexity, and a passion that fans connect with. The journey through Prythian isn’t over—it’s just waiting for its next chapter.
Key Takeaways
- Sarah J. Maas plans to start writing ACOTAR Book 6 following her completion of the Crescent City trilogy
- The series has been without a new installment since February 2021’s A Court of Silver Flames
- Hulu’s cancellation marks a major shift in plans for the ACOTAR franchise’s expansion into television
Recent Developments in the ACOTAR Series
ACOTAR fans face significant changes as Hulu abandons its adaptation plans, while anticipation builds for Sarah J. Maas’s sixth book in the series. The publishing timeline shifts and production updates mark important milestones for the franchise.
Cancellation of the ACOTAR Series on Hulu
Hulu’s decision to cancel the planned adaptation of A Court of Thorns and Roses marks a disappointing turn for fans who awaited the television version. The streaming platform had previously announced plans to bring Feyre’s story to life.
The project initially generated excitement with Ronald D. Moore attached as producer and Sarah J. Maas co-writing the pilot script.
Many fans expressed their disappointment on social media, though some remain hopeful another network or streaming service might pick up the series.
Anticipation for the Sixth Book in the Series
The next installment in the ACOTAR series has sparked intense fan interest since the release of A Court of Silver Flames in February 2021. Bloomsbury Publishing will continue their partnership with Maas for Book 6.
The release date looks set for late 2025 or early 2026. Sarah J. Maas has confirmed she is actively working on the manuscript.
The title remains unannounced but will follow the traditional “A Court of…” naming pattern. The long gap between books has not dampened fan enthusiasm, with readers regularly discussing theories and potential plot developments on social media platforms.
Exploring the ACOTAR Universe
The ACOTAR series creates a vivid fantasy world filled with powerful High Fae, complex magic systems, and intricate political alliances across seven distinct courts. Sarah J. Maas weaves together personal growth, romance, and political intrigue through five published books.
Main Characters and Their Journeys
Feyre Archeron starts as a human huntress before becoming High Fae. Her transformation from a struggling mortal to the High Lady of the Night Court marks a significant character arc.
Rhysand, High Lord of the Night Court, breaks traditional power structures by sharing his rule with Feyre. His leadership style combines strength with compassion.
Nesta Archeron’s journey from a bitter human to a powerful Fae warrior showcases one of the most dramatic character developments. Her relationship with Cassian, the Night Court’s general, adds depth to both characters.
Elain Archeron’s quiet strength and growing magical abilities present an intriguing plotline, especially regarding her complicated connections to both Lucien and Azriel.
World-building Elements in Prythian
The seven courts of Prythian each possess unique magic and cultural characteristics:
- Night Court: Known for its hidden city Velaris and mind-manipulation powers
- Spring Court: Masters of growth magic and natural elements
- Winter Court: Specialists in ice magic and survival skills
- Summer Court: Controls water and heat-based abilities
Magic in Prythian operates through specific rules and limitations. Each High Lord passes power through bloodlines, creating complex hierarchies.
The social structure includes High Fae, lesser faeries, and various magical creatures. Political alliances shift constantly, affecting relationships between courts.
Romantic and Political Subplots
The mate bond serves as a central element in ACOTAR’s romantic relationships. This magical connection creates both opportunities and conflicts for characters.
Political tensions drive many plot developments:
- Inter-court rivalries
- Human-Fae relations
- Power struggles within courts
The Night Court’s inner circle demonstrates complex relationship dynamics:
- Mor’s role as Third-in-Command
- Azriel’s shadow-singing abilities
- Cassian’s military leadership
Romance intertwines with political strategy, particularly in diplomatic marriages and alliances. Each relationship affects the broader political landscape of Prythian.
Frequently Asked Questions
The ACOTAR fandom faces major updates with news about both the TV adaptation and upcoming book releases, sparking questions about the franchise’s future in both mediums.
What is the status of the ‘A Court of Thorns and Roses’ TV adaptation after Hulu’s cancellation?
Hulu has officially canceled its planned adaptation of A Court of Thorns and Roses. The streaming service had been developing the series with Ronald D. Moore as showrunner.
The project had been in development since 2021 with Sarah J. Maas co-writing the pilot script.
When is the sixth book of the ‘A Court of Thorns and Roses’ series expected to be released?
Bloomsbury Publishing indicated in 2023 that ACOTAR Book 6 is scheduled for release in 2025. Some sources suggest the release might extend to early 2026.
Sarah J. Maas confirmed in January 2024 that she will start working on the sixth ACOTAR book after completing House of Flame and Shadow.
Will there be another attempt to adapt ACOTAR into a TV series following the Hulu cancellation?
The rights situation for a new TV adaptation remains unclear. No other streaming services or networks have announced plans to pick up the project.
The strong fan base and commercial success of the book series make it an attractive property for future adaptation attempts.
How can I pre-order the upcoming sixth book in the ACOTAR series?
Pre-orders are not available yet as the official release date has not been announced. Book retailers will open pre-orders once Bloomsbury Publishing sets a specific launch date.
What details are available about Azriel’s character in the upcoming ACOTAR book 6?
No confirmed plot details or character focuses have been revealed for Book 6. Sarah J. Maas has not announced which character will serve as the main protagonist.
Are there any updates from Sarah J. Maas regarding the continuation of the ACOTAR series?
Maas signed a four-book deal with her publisher in 2023. This agreement includes the sixth ACOTAR book.
The author is currently finishing other projects before focusing on the next ACOTAR installment.
