The Next ACOTAR Book — Rumours, Theories & Release Whispers
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If you’ve been haunting TikTok, combing Reddit threads, or rereading your favourite ACOTAR scenes for the hundredth time, you’re not alone—we’re all waiting (impatiently) for the next instalment in Sarah J. Maas’s A Court of Thorns and Roses series.
While there’s no official title or release date yet, a recent Instagram video reel from Maas gives fans a major reason to hope—plus a chance to read between the lines.
🎥 The New IG Reel: First Drafts Done!
On July 11, 2025, SJM shared a brief but exciting Instagram reel showing her closing a notebook labeled “ACOTAR 6”, shutting her laptop, and popping a bottle of champagne—with the caption “First drafts DONE.” This confirms she’s completed the initial manuscript for book six.
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Fans quickly noticed whether the notebook said “6‑8” or simply had an arrow—sparking speculation about whether this reel hinted at further sequels.
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Redditors pointed out the notebook’s design—with a mystical tree, lake, or “Heir of Fire” vibes—as a possible subtle clue about setting, mood, or character symbolism.
📚 What We Know (Now)
✅ 1. Draft Status
SJM has officially finished a first draft—a huge milestone after over four years since A Court of Silver Flames (2021).
✅ 2. Book Focus & POV
All signs point to Elain Archeron as the protagonist.
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She remained POV-less since Silver Flames, and her seer powers and complex feelings toward Lucien/Azriel point to her likely center stage.
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SJM’s interviews (2021–2024) repeatedly teased an Elain-centered novel, and the Instagram reel reinforces that direction.
✅ 3. Plot & Connections
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Foreshadowing is seen in House of Flame and Shadow, where Elain’s seer gifts and ties to Starborn magic are introduced.
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Crescent City link-ups and multiverse hints likely set up future crossover arcs.
✅ 4. Release Timeline
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No official date yet, but industry insiders expect late 2026 or early 2027—especially with editing, cover design, and marketing needing time.
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More news may surface this winter or alongside ACOTAR's 10th anniversary momentum.
🔍 Fan Theories & Subtle Clues
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Notebook symbolism: Its leafy/purple swirl pattern has sparked fan theories relating to Elain’s journey or even parallels to Heir of Fire aesthetics.
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Arrow or “6‑8” marking?: Some wonder if the notation hints at a two‑book arc—or maybe just Maas having extra pages clipped.
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Colour theory: The sparkles, purple tones, and notebook design are being linked to Elain’s Seer-sister energy and court symbolism.
📝 Our Best Guesses
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Title & POV: The book will have Elain as the main POV and may be titled after her Court—perhaps A Court of Stars and Silence (pure speculation!).
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Storyline: Expect a deeper dive into her Seer powers, love triangle drama (Azriel vs. Lucien), and her path toward self-agency.
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Series Arc: Bloomsbury’s multi‑book deal hints at ACOTAR 6 (Elain), ACOTAR 7 (possibly Aurora or Mor-centered?), and continued Crescent City plus a brand-new series.
🧡 JOIN THE CONVERSATION
Are you #TeamElain, #TeamAzriel, or #TeamLucien? Do you think the notebook symbolism is intentional, or just aesthetics? Comment below or join us on Instagram @enchantedspine with your theories!