Leak culture is becoming an increasingly large problem in pop culture spaces, and A Court of Thorns and Roses is the latest victim of it. A Court of Splintered Harmony, the long-awaited sixth book in Sarah J. Maas’ romantasy series, comes out in just one week. Yet despite how close its October 27 release date is, leaks have reportedly found their way online. Real or not, they’ve left readers trying their best to avoid spoilers. They’ve also pushed Maas to speak out against them.
The author took to Instagram Stories on October 19 to address the alleged leaks, asking readers not to share them. She emphasized that the story should be experienced the way it’s intended, not through snippets that won’t make sense removed from the rest of the novel:
“I know how much you love these books and these characters; I know you’ve been waiting for a long time to know what comes next. That love for these stories is exactly why I’m requesting that you please, please don’t share leaks.
Nothing about this release is meant to feel like a secret that needs to be found out. Publishing a book takes time and effort from so many hardworking people to get it into your hands. Throughout this long process, everyone involved has been dedicated to keeping things from being spoiled, but sometimes things happen, and it is beyond disheartening to see out-of-context moments take away from all of you who have waited so patiently.
All I’m asking for is just a bit more of that patience — until you can get everything in its fullness, the way it’s meant to be read.”
It’s disappointing that it needs to be said, but it shows how persistent leaks have become as of late. Maas isn’t the only author to come online and make such a request recently, either. Just a few weeks ago, Rebecca Yarros had to do so for Threshing Day, her new Fourth Wing collection (via Brit + Co).
Hopefully, this won’t become a regular appeal every time a major new romantasy sequel releases. With two instances in the span of a month, it’s certainly cause for concern though.
Fortunately, the entirety of A Court of Splintered Harmony will be here soon enough.
