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Unpacking Sarah J. Maas Controversy: ACOTAR Author Under Fire

The Sarah J. Maas controversy includes issues of representation, a toxic fanbase, and explicit content labeling.

Sarah J. Maas is a celebrated author known for her young-adult fantasy series Throne of Glass, A Court of Thorns and Roses (ACOTAR), and adult contemporary fantasy Crescent City. 

Her writing has garnered a large following on online platforms like TikTok and BookTok. 

However, these platforms have also sparked controversies surrounding her writing, including accusations of a toxic fanbase, lack of inclusivity, and issues with explicit content labeling. 

Let’s explore the Sarah J. Maas controversy, including a detailed look into the criticisms of her writing. 

We will also answer some common questions about Sarah J. Maas, including if she is a feminist, if Crescent City is spicy, if she is a Star Wars fan, and if she allows fanfiction.

Everything you need to know about the Sarah J. Maas controversy

Many fans criticize the lack of diversity in her books and argue that they often misrepresent characters of color or characters who identify as LGBTQ. 

Reddit users have highlighted cases in Sarah J. Maas’s books where marginalized characters and their experiences were misrepresented. 

The Throne of Glass series, for example, has only one main character of color, who appears to have been diminished in significance to advance the white protagonist’s narrative. 

The A Court of Thorns and Roses books also include poorly handled abuse.

In the third instalment of the A Court of Thorns and Roses series, one of the main characters reveals their homosexuality but explains that they engage in relationships with men as a means of self-protection.

Toxic Fanbase

Sarah J. Maas’s fanbase has been labeled toxic by some readers. 

Some fans are accused of ignoring Sarah J. Maas’s problematic behavior and avoiding holding her accountable. 

The SJM effect, coined by TikTok user @wellreadnurse, pertains to instances where authors or celebrities engage in problematic actions towards marginalized communities. 

Instead of fans holding these individuals accountable, they often resort to gaslighting the marginalized community.

This phenomenon can make it difficult for fans to engage in constructive criticism and can harm marginalized communities.

Issues with Explicit Content Labeling

A common criticism of Sarah J. Maas’s work is that some of it is not adequately labelled for explicit content. 

Her subsequent series after TOG, which contains explicit s*x scenes, is technically not a young-adult series. 

During New York Comic-Con in 2019, Sarah claimed that ACOTAR was meant for “new adults,” a genre aimed at college students aged 19-25. 

However, the series was back in the young-adult section, which could lead to younger readers accessing explicit content.

Is Sarah J. Maas a Feminist?

Sarah J. Maas has not explicitly stated whether or not she identifies as a feminist. However, her work aligns with feminist ideals. 

Many of the main female characters in her books are strong, independent women who fight for their rights and for the rights of others. 

Her books also include themes of sisterhood, a relationship between women that celebrates support, and empowerment.

Is Crescent City book Spicy?

Crescent City, Sarah J. Maas’s most recent series, does have explicit content, including s*x scenes. 

While the series is technically labeled as adult contemporary fantasy, it is common for younger readers to engage with it. 

The explicit content may not be suitable for younger readers, so parents and readers should exercise caution.

Is Sarah J. Maas a Star Wars Fan?

Undoubtedly, Sarah J. Maas has shown her affinity for Star Wars. 

In a 2021 interview with Express, she expressed her excitement for the third season of The Mandalorian, indicating her status as a Star Wars enthusiast.

Her anticipation for the series highlights her connection to the expansive Star Wars universe.

Does Sarah J. Maas allow Fanfiction?

Sarah J. Maas has not explicitly stated whether she is supportive of or against fanfiction. 

She has not issued a cease and desist order regarding fanfiction, and some fanfiction writers have apparently received positive responses from her.

However, legal ownership of fanfiction can be complicated, so fans should exercise caution when creating fanfiction based on Sarah J. Maas’s work.

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Abbie Anker

Update: 2024-05-21