Clearwater readers join nationwide rush for Maas sequel

Washington, D.C. Thousands of readers gathered at bookstores across the country on Monday night to mark the release of A Court of Splintered Harmony. The book, the latest entry in Sarah J. Maas' A Court of Thorns and Roses series, hit shelves on Tuesday, October 27. Fans at Politics and Prose in Washington, D.C. attended a midnight party to secure their copies before they went on sale.

Dozens of attendees filled the store, many dressed in costumes that referenced the fantasy world. Descriptions included tight leather outfits, pointy faerie ears, and sparkly tiaras. Dalia Luque, a reader in the crowd, said she chose to attend in person rather than preordering online. She wanted to share the moment with other fans.

"I just want to have fun with the community and get to share with my friends as we read along," Luque said.

While waiting for the midnight deadline, fans participated in trivia games, made friendship bracelets, and got their faces painted. Staffer Amber Lovold painted green shrubbery on Luque's face to represent the Summer Court. In the book's lore, the Summer Court is one of seven territories, each ruled by a High Lord with a distinct color palette and vibe. Fans often align themselves with specific courts, a practice similar to identifying with astrological signs.

The series is a leading title in the romantasy genre, which blends romance and fantasy elements. The story follows faeries and humans as they fight battles and form romantic relationships. Luque said she enjoys the immersive quality of the books. "I've always enjoyed stepping into a new reality, or a different version of reality," she said. "And so I think these books create a whole new world, and that's pretty exciting."

Ivana Wong, who won the night's costume contest, wore a black dress with sequin stars, a silver headpiece, and a sheer cape. She had been waiting for the new book since the first installment appeared in 2015. Maas took a break from the series in 2021, leaving a five year gap before this release. Wong said she is taking a couple of days off work to read the new book.

Chastity Mayhaus, who recently moved to Washington, D.C., attended to meet other readers. "I'm hoping to make some friends, just talk to some people," Mayhaus said. "I'm looking around to see any good book clubs that are like in the area, so maybe I can scout out some new ones."

Nicole Davidow, the event organizer at Politics and Prose, noted that a large part of the fanbase formed on social media platforms like BookTok. However, many readers are eager to connect in person. "I think that online community wants to be in a room together," Davidow said. "In general, we find that with all of our events, people are craving a community."

Davidow originally planned to sell only 50 tickets for the event but ended up hosting around 70 people. When the clock struck midnight, fans moved quickly to the checkout lines. They left the store with pink and yellow hardcover copies of the book.