A Court of silver flames

A Court of Silver Flames and Nesta print

Title: A Court of Silver Flames

Series: A Court of Thorns and Roses (Goodreads)
Publisher: Bloomsbury 
Genre: Fantasy, Romance
Author: Sarah J Maas
Age Group: Adult
Source: Waterstones (purchased)

Review

Fans of Sarah J Maas have waited a few delirious years for A Court of Silver Flames to finally be published and the hype has certainly been worth it! Staying in the world of Velaris we now finally have the chance as readers to understand and read from Nesta’s very own perspective. Continuing in Maas’ regular fashion Nesta is not exempt from her own traumas, in fact I would say that Maas is one of the strongest writers out there at the moment who deals with trauma in a strong and sensitive respectful manner.

If you are one of the those readers who enjoys a little smut in their books then you will not be disappointed. There is plenty of sexual tensions and thrills throughout the entirety of A Court of Silver Flames. Personally I felt that even though I still enjoyed these scenes there were perhaps one too many that distracted from Nesta’s personal journey to overcome her major trauma.

“If you think this training nonsense is going to result in you climbing into my bed, you’re delusional.” She added with a slice of a smile, “I’d sooner let in a mangy street dog.” “Oh, it’s not going to result in me climbing into your bed.” Nesta snickered, victory achieved, and had reached the stairs when he crooned, “You’ll climb into mine.”

What was the most outstanding element of A Court of Silver Flames for me was the female friendships. One of the most important elements of healing is support and friendship and Nesta most certainly finds this with Emerie and Gwyn, who are both equally strong and compelling characters in their own rights. In fact the friendship that Nesta, Emerie, and Gwyn share was for me the most meaningful and powerful relationship from the whole of the book. I think this friendship is what redeems the book, without it I personally fear that it would have been a book predominantly about sex and unresolved anguish.

‘Whether the sun beat hot on their brows or freezing rain turned their bones to ice, Nesta, Emerie, and Gwyneth arrived at practice each morning, ready to … The back of her throat ached; her eyes stung. “We’re in a book.” Gwyn’s fingers slid into hers, squeezing tight. Nesta looked up to find her holding Emerie’s free hand as well. Gwyn smiled again, her eyes bright. “Our stories are worth telling.”

What also matters most in A Court of Silver Flames is the continuing importance of family, those that we choose and those we cannot. Part of Nesta’s and Feyre’s joint struggles have always been the strain created in their own family caused by problems out of their control. Therefore, they both share the need to heal through healing their sisterly relationship and Maas certainly delivers a satisfying resolution for Feyre and Nesta together. In my opinion Maas could not have written A Court of Silver Flames without including and giving some attention still to Feyre and Rhys because they are a part of Neta’s own story. I believe the below quote summons up for me one of Maas’ second continuing themes and overriding messages in the world of A Court of Thorns and Roses. Which is that family is what matters the most and though there are strains and difficulties in the end your family will always be the last remaining ones to stand by and help you no matter what:

“Let me make a wish for all of us,” she explained, gathering the three charms. A small gift—for the friends who had become like sisters. A chosen family. Like the one Feyre had found for herself.’

Synopsis (From Goodreads)

Nesta Archeron has always been prickly-proud, swift to anger, and slow to forgive. And ever since being forced into the Cauldron and becoming High Fae against her will, she's struggled to find a place for herself within the strange, deadly world she inhabits. Worse, she can't seem to move past the horrors of the war with Hybern and all she lost in it.

The one person who ignites her temper more than any other is Cassian, the battle-scarred warrior whose position in Rhysand and Feyre's Night Court keeps him constantly in Nesta's orbit. But her temper isn't the only thing Cassian ignites. The fire between them is undeniable, and only burns hotter as they are forced into close quarters with each other.

Meanwhile, the treacherous human queens who returned to the Continent during the last war have forged a dangerous new alliance, threatening the fragile peace that has settled over the realms. And the key to halting them might very well rely on Cassian and Nesta facing their haunting pasts.

Against the sweeping backdrop of a world seared by war and plagued with uncertainty, Nesta and Cassian battle monsters from within and without as they search for acceptance-and healing-in each other's arms.

Key Quotes

‘Nesta watched the shadowsinger with a frankness that most people shied from. Azriel returned the look with a stillness that most people ran from. Even Feyre had been hesitant around Az initially, but Nesta considered him with the same unflinching assessment she laid upon everyone. Maybe that was why Azriel had never said a bad word about Nesta.’

‘He said with soft fury, “It took me ten years before I was able to face it. What I’d done to those people, and what I’d lost. Ten years.” He was trembling, but not with fear. “So if you want to take ten years to face whatever is eating you alive from the inside out, go ahead. You want to take twenty years, go ahead.” Silence fell, interrupted only by their uneven panting. Nesta breathed, “Do you regret what you did?” “No.” Such unflinching honesty.’

“I am not a thing to be controlled by you,” Nesta said icily. Everything in her life, from the moment she was born, had been controlled by other people. Things happened to her; anytime she tried to exert control, she’d been thwarted at every turn—and she hated that even more than the King of Hybern.’

“Az won’t be back for a little while. Let’s go flying.” “What about the humans?” They’d run screaming in terror. Cassian gave her a wicked smile, opening that half-broken door for her. Leading her into the sunlight and clean air. “It’ll add a little spice to their days.”

Similar reads

From Blood and Ash, The Bridge Kingdom, Serpent & Dove, The Cruel Prince

Afterthoughts

Who would you turn to in times of need, to help heal from pain and trauma?

Do you have a family of your own that you have chosen?

Did you enjoy A Court of Silver Flames? Share your thoughts in the comments, I'd love to hear them!

What do you think will happen in the next book?

Review - House of Earth and Blood

House of Earth and Blood (Crescent city)

Title: House of Earth and Blood

Series: Crescent City (Goodreads)
Publisher: Bloomsbury 
Genre: Fantasy, Romance
Author: Sarah J Maas
Age Group: Adult
Source: Waterstones (purchased)

Review

So I can officially declare that I am a Maas convert!🤣I will admit however that when House of Earth and Blood was first announced I wasn’t so sure I would read it. I also had the fortune to read a NetGalley exclusive before publication and can honestly admit that the few chapters I did read I didn’t enjoy. However, looking back now I think that my lack of enjoyment was more about the fact that I don’t like reading on devices and much prefer reading in paper format. Once I finally got my hands on the hardback of House of Earth and Blood I was so glad that I didn’t turn away from this book and thankfully enjoyed every moment of reading this book.

One of the elements that I loved about House of Earth and Blood was the dual narration. We get to hear from both Hunt and Bryce’s perspectives and watch how over the course of the book they learn to overcome their initial judgements and prejudices for one another as well as the society they live in. The books blurb already states that Bryce lost her friends and remained wounded afterwards and this was one of the premeditated judgements that Hunt held about her, that she would quickly remove her scar to maintain her beautiful figure:

‘How anyone could breathe in a dress that tight was also a mystery. It was long enough that it covered the area on her thigh where the scar from that night two years ago would be—that is, if she hadn’t paid some medwitch to erase it. For someone who clearly took pains to dress nicely, he had little doubt she’d gotten it removed immediately. Party girls didn’t like scars messing with how they looked in a swimsuit.’

Yet as I’m sure your aware if you’ve read the book this judgement slowly changes. I won’t give away any spoilers but I will say this; Maas always deals with trauma in her books and Bryce is no exception to that. We are given a young beautiful women who supposedly cares more about her looks and lacks personality and depth, considering Hunt’s initial judgements, but if you read till the end you will learn that the scar Hunt alludes to holds more significance; that Bryce is in fact more than just the party girl with a need to look good, she is a young woman who has yet to overcome her trauma, loss, and guilt.

A different relationship I enjoyed was between Bryce and Ruhn. I loved watching them begin to heal their relationship after distancing themselves from one another for so long. As someone who has siblings I know that those relationships can be rocky and tricky but at the end of all the difficulties you still love your siblings. So, watching Bryce and Ruhn begin to heal their sibling rift was rather uplifting in a book that deals with some rather challenging traumas. Below is an extract where Ruhn proves once again that he is not willing to give up on his sister no matter how many times she tries to push him away. All I can say is that I’m excited to see how much further their relationship can improve in the sequel as well as getting to see more depth from Ruhn himself because I believe his character has huge potential.

‘She scanned his face, weighing the offer there. The hand extended. “Why?” she asked quietly. “Why keep bothering?” “Why keep pushing me away, Bryce?” His voice strained. “It wasn’t just about that fight.” She swallowed, her throat thick. “You were my best friend,” she said. “Before Danika, you were my best friend. And I … It doesn’t matter now.” She’d realized back then that the truth didn’t matter—she wouldn’t let it matter. She shrugged, as if it’d help lighten the crushing weight in her chest. “Maybe we could start over. On a trial basis only.” Ruhn started to smile. “So you’ll come watch the game?” “Juniper was supposed to come over that day, but I’ll see if she’s up for it.” Ruhn’s blue eyes twinkled like stars, but Bryce cut in, “No promises, though.” He was still grinning when she rose from her barstool.’

Synopsis (Goodreads)

Half-Fae, half-human Bryce Quinlan loves her life. By day, she works for an antiquities dealer, selling barely legal magical artifacts, and by night, she parties with her friends, savouring every pleasure Lunathion—otherwise known as Crescent City— has to offer. But it all comes crumbling down when a ruthless murder shakes the very foundations of the city—and Bryce’s world.

Two years later, her job has become a dead end, and she now seeks only blissful oblivion in the city’s most notorious nightclubs. But when the murderer attacks again, Bryce finds herself dragged into the investigation and paired with an infamous Fallen angel whose own brutal past haunts his every step.

Hunt Athalar, personal assassin for the Archangels, wants nothing to do with Bryce Quinlan, despite being ordered to protect her. She stands for everything he once rebelled against and seems more interested in partying than solving the murder, no matter how close to home it might hit. But Hunt soon realizes there’s far more to Bryce than meets the eye—and that he’s going to have to find a way to work with her if they want to solve this case.

As Bryce and Hunt race to untangle the mystery, they have no way of knowing the threads they tug ripple through the underbelly of the city, across warring continents, and down to the darkest levels of Hel, where things that have been sleeping for millennia are beginning to stir...

Key Quotes

Warning! Some swearing below

‘But it was Danika’s added “Love you” as Bryce slipped out into the grimy hallway that made her hesitate with her hand on the knob. It’d taken Danika a few years to say those words, and she still used them sparingly. Danika had initially hated it when Bryce said them to her—even when Bryce explained that she’d spent most of her life saying it, just in case it was the last time. In case she wouldn’t get to say goodbye to the people who mattered most.’

‘Tonight it had been simple enough—no guns. Hunt understood the unwritten words: make them suffer. So he had.’

“This is already a nightmare.” Isaiah coughed. “You watched Quinlan for one night.” “Ten hours, to be exact. Right until her pet chimera just appeared next to me at dawn, bit me in the ass for looking like I was dozing off, and then vanished again—right back into the apartment. Just as Quinlan came out of her bedroom and opened the curtains to see me grabbing my own ass like a fucking idiot. Do you know how sharp a chimera’s teeth are?” “No.” Hunt could have sworn he heard a smile in Isaiah’s voice. “When I flew over to explain, she blasted her music and ignored me like a fucking brat.”

‘She’d refused to go to therapy. […] But Bryce hadn’t shown up—not because she didn’t believe it would work. No, she knew it would work, and help, and probably make her feel better. Or at least give her the tools to try to do so. That was precisely why she hadn’t gone. From the way Hunt was staring at her, she wondered if he knew it—realized why she blew out a long breath.’

Similar Reads

From Blood and Ash, Serpent & Dove

Afterthoughts

Have you read House of Earth and Blood what did you think? Let me know in the comments below!

House of Earth and Blood is about more than just fantasy and enjoyment it deals with challenging traumas, overcoming grief and loss. The Characters are multidimensional and sassy AF!

Review - A Court of Frost and Starlight

A Court of Thorns and Roses series with Faecrate print

Title: A Court of Frost and Starlight 

Series: A Court of Thorns and Roses (Goodreads)
Publisher: Bloomsbury 
Genre: Fantasy, Romance
Author: Sarah J Maas
Age Group: YA
Source: Amazon (purchased)

Review

This is an absolutely fantastic little novella if you are a fan of ACOTAR. It truly resolves Feyre and Rhysand’s story that was brought to us in the worlds opening trilogy. However, what excited me most was that this novella begins to set up the future books and what we might expect for the other members of the Inner Circle and Archeron Sisters. After all we have seen Feyre begin her healing process but have yet to see Elain and Nesta face their traumas. But A Court of Frost and Starlight definitely establishes this for the future books (notably, A Court of Silver Flames is Nesta’s individual book). ACOTAR may have begun as Feyre and Rhys’s love story but this world is about truly more than that!

Even though the ACOTAR trilogy was mainly Feyre and Rhys’s story it was always about more than just them. It brought into focus some very important issues such as family conflicts, various traumas and healing from those difficult traumas. In particular sexual harassment was a key trauma suffered by both women and men, as well as the issue of family abuse. All of these issues was what made readers value the trilogy and Maas’ frankness to raise such issues in books targeted towards young adult readers. That’s why the following quote for me sums up one of the key themes raised throughout the trilogy, the power of family offering support and healing through facing and coming to terms with trauma. If you have read the series than you will be aware of the details of Cassian’s particular past, if not, then without giving away spoilers the key thing to know is that Cassian and his mother suffered abuse from their families village. Part of the healing process for Cassian was meeting Rhys and finding not only a friendship but choosing to claim each other as family, as brothers.

‘My mother always had gifts for Azriel and Cassian. For the latter, the initial Solstice we’d shared here had been the first time he’d received any sort of gift, Solstice or not. I could still see the tears Cassian had tried to hide as he’d opened his presents, and the tears in my mother’s eyes as she watched him.’

Now, even though there are difficult issues and themes there are still many positive and happy moments found throughout the ACOTAR trilogy and A Court of Frost and Starlight. At many times through reading this series overall I have found myself smiling and laughing time and again throughout reading about the love and friendship found between the many characters. Moments between The Inner Circle when things are peaceful and happy have always been my most favourite and ACOFAS did not disappoint as there were many of these happy occasions. The overarching story is the winter Solstice celebration, a time similar to our own Christmas, when families come together and enjoy the festivities and remind themselves of those that matter most to them (and of course who can forget the presents! cheeky Emoji). One scene that especially had me laughing and smiling is when Feyre and Cassian get drunk together and attempt to decorate the house for solstice. Of course getting drunk doesn’t lead to very good decorating and Azriel tries to fix it and whilst doing so is coaxed into joining Cass and Feyre for a drink:

“Poor Az,” I said, pouring myself another glass. “Wine will make you feel better.” He glared at me, then the bottle, then Cassian … and finally stormed across the room, took the bottle from my hand, and chugged the rest. Cassian grinned with delight. Mostly because Rhys drawled from the doorway, “Well, at least now I know who’s drinking all my good wine. Want another one, Az?” Azriel nearly spewed the wine into the fire, but made himself swallow and turn, red-faced, to Rhys. “I would like to explain—” Rhys laughed, the rich sound bouncing off the carved oak moldings of the room. “Five centuries, and you think I don’t know that if my wine’s gone, Cassian’s usually behind it?” Cassian raised his glass in a salute.’

Synopsis (Goodreads)

ON THE DARKEST NIGHT, THE STARS STILL SHINE. 

Feyre's first Winter Solstice as High Lady is drawing near. With it will come a hard-earned rest from the work she, Rhys and their friends have done to rebuild the Night Court and the vastly changed the world beyond. Yet the festive atmosphere can't keep shadows from looming. Even as her own heart heals, she finds that those dearest to her have wounds that go deeper than she knew. 

AND THE SCARS OF THE PAST WILL TOUCH HER COURT IN TIMES TO COME.

Key Quotes

‘Elain met me halfway to the kitchen, bearing a tray of jam tarts toward the table in the dining room. Where an assortment of baked goods had already begun to take form, tiered cakes and iced cookies. Sugar-frosted buns and caramel-drizzled fruit pies. “Those look pretty,” I told her by way of greeting, nodding toward the heart-shaped cookies on her tray.’

“Hot cocoa or wine?” Cassian curved a wing around me, turning us toward the cellar door. “How many good bottles does little Rhysie have left?”

‘I cupped Rhys’s cheek, and he leaned into the touch as I quietly asked, “Do you think it’s stupid to wonder if painting might help others, too? Not my painting, I mean. But teaching others to paint. Letting them paint. People who might struggle the same way I do.” His eyes softened. “I don’t think that’s stupid at all.” I traced my thumb over his cheekbone, savoring every inch of contact. “It makes me feel better—perhaps it would do the same for others.”

“The females bring their jewelry. I bring my weapons.” “I know a few females in this house who might take offense to that.” Cassian offered me a wicked grin in response.’

Similar Reads

Throne of Glass, From Blood and Ash, The Cruel Prince, Serpent & Dove, Kingdom of the Wicked

Afterthoughts

Sometimes it's the family we choose, our friends, that help us the most and we should cherish the family we go to choose.

Healing from trauma takes time and it isn't a quick process but a lifetimes worth of healing.

Have you read A Court of Frost and Starlight, what did you think?

What books would you recommend for readers that love Fae inspired stories?

Review - Queen of Shadows

Throne of Glass stack + Aelin print designed by JemlinC

Title: Queen of Shadows
Series: Throne of Glass (Goodreads)
Publisher: Bloomsbury 
Genre: Fantasy, Romance
Author: Sarah J. Maas   
Age Group: YA
Source: Waterstones (purchased)

Review

So much happened in this book and my love for this series only gets stronger and more intense as the Throne of Glass series progresses! Something that I have noticed so far about all the books is that the beginnings are usually a bit slow to develop and it can take a few chapters before the action begins to take place. This doesn’t spoil the books in any way, at least not for me, but I mention this so that readers are aware and advise them to stick with the books because once the action picks up you do not want to miss it. As the series goes on and I continue to review them I’m finding it harder and harder to keep my reviews as free from spoilers as possible because so much has changed for Celaena since A Throne of Glass so I will advise to read with caution as there will be minor spoilers.

The one constant strength for me throughout all the books, and especially in Queen of Shadows, is Celaena’s personal development. If you are a long time fan or a new fan of the series then you will be aware of the burdens Celaena has had to carry. These burdens have only increased and become heavier since the previous book, Heir of Fire, when Celaena’s true identity was revealed (Aelin of Terrasen). To go from being an assassin to a young queen with a kingdom to save is a heavy burden for anyone, and Celaena does struggle with it, but importantly with the support and love from her close friends they help her too overcome her struggles and burdens.

‘She could forgive the girl who had needed a captain of the guard to offer stability after a year in hell; forgive the girl who had needed a captain to be her champion. But she was her own champion now. And she would not add another name of her beloved dead to her flesh.’

That leads me to the best element of this book and for me that was the multiple relationships that were developed. Though more importantly, it was the individual developments of particular characters too. The strongest and most beautiful individual developments for me were Manon, Lysandra and Rowan. Whilst the relationships that stood out for me were Celaena and Lysandra’s, Celaena and Rowan’s as well as Manon and Elide’s. I desperately want to discuss so many of these characters and their story arcs but then I’d honestly end up writing a uni length essay and nobody really wants that. So I’m going to focus on Manon’s development as well as the relationship between Celaena and Rowan.

I think you would find it very difficult to argue with any hardcore fan of this series that Maas is in no doubt a fantastic writer of strong, fierce, and independent women! Manon is certainly no exception to this strongly worded statement. When we first met Manon in Heir of Fire she was a blindly loyal and unquestioning follower of her Grandmothers. However, following events in the previous book this is no longer the case. From early on in Queen of Shadows Manon is suddenly lost and beginning to doubt her unquestioning loyalty and this is what makes her development in this series so interesting. There is a fantastic couple of scenes which I think really highlight Manon’s beginning developments. If what has started in Queen of Shadows continues to get stronger in the next few books than her individual story arc is for me is one to watch closely. I think something that’s very important about personal development for characters is that it cannot happen without the right people present in their lives to challenge them and for Manon the two most important and willing challengers in Queen of Shadows are Asterin and Elide. In one particular scene Manon states that Elide cannot understand her struggles because she has not lived them. However, Elide very quickly responds that actually she can relate because she too has faced the same struggles and so openly challenges Manon exemplifying for me the strengths of their developing friendship and Manon’s personal journey too:

“Is your broken kingdom worth it?” Elide dared to ask. […] “I do not expect a human to understand what it is like to be an immortal with no homeland. To be cursed with eternal exile.” Cold, distant words. Elide said, “My kingdom was conquered by the King of Adarlan, and everyone I loved was executed. My father’s lands and my title were stolen from me by my uncle, and my best chance of safety now lies in sailing to the other end of the world. I understand what it is like to wish—to hope.” “It is not hope. It is survival.” Elide gently rolled a bandage around the witch’s forearm. “It is hope for your homeland that guides you, that makes you obey.”

Finally Celaena and Rowan’s relationship has already come so far since the previous book, Heir of Fire, and I am totally in love with how much they mean to each other and the support they have and give to one another. What’s fantastic about the multiple perspectives given to us in this book is that we are finally able to see what goes on inside both their minds and honestly reading from Rowan’s perspective had my heart melting. There were so many moments that had me laughing, almost in tears of laughter a lot of times, and others that had me weak at the knees because of their emotional vulnerability. Celaena can absolutely look after herself but that doesn’t mean she’s immune to weak moments, because no one is, and to have Rowan look out for her is absolutely fantastic especially when she willingly asks for his help. Sometimes a persons strength comes from being able to ask for help. Rowan truly cares for Celaena and this example that I’m going to share and leave you with proves that:

‘Rowan had thought he knew fear. He had thought he could face any danger with a clear head and ice in his veins. Until Lorcan appeared from the shadows, so fast that Rowan hadn’t even scented him, and put that knife against Aelin’s throat.’

Synopsis (Goodreads)

NO MASTERS.

NO LIMITS.
NO REGRETS.

Celaena Sardothien is cloaked in her assassin's hood once more. She is back in Rifthold, but this time she is no one's slave. She must delve into her most painful memories and fight for her survival, while resisting a smouldering passion that might very well consume her heart. And she will face her former master, the King of Assassins, again - to wreak revenge for a decade of pain...

Key Quotes

‘There were two men in this city responsible for destroying her life and the people she’d loved. She would not leave Rifthold until she’d buried them both.'

‘[she] reminded herself that she’d been trained to kill with her bare hands long before she’d ever learned to melt bones with her fire. She did not need the extra strength, speed, and agility of her Fae form to bring down her enemies.’

‘There were many, many debts to be paid before she left Rifthold and took back her throne. Starting now. Fortunate that she was in a killing sort of mood.’

‘Everything—everything was for Dorian, for his friend. For himself, he had nothing left to lose. He was nothing more than a nameless oath-breaker, a liar, a traitor.’

“I hear hell is particularly nice at this time of year.”

Similar Reads

The Cruel Prince, From Blood and Ash, Serpent & Dove, Shadow and Bone, Six of Crows, The Shadows Between Us, Red Queen 

Afterthoughts

Who's your favourite character or relationship?

Have you read Queen of Shadows, let me know your thoughts!

What books would you recommend for fantasy readers?

I wasn't too keen on the direction of Celaena and Chaol's relationship at the beginning but by the end something seriously changed my mind and Chaol redeemed my appreciation for his character.

Chaol's consistent friendship and loyalty to Dorian has always been a strength of his character. One of the enjoyable aspects of the series is their bromance!

Review - A Court of Wings and Ruin

A Court of Wings and Ruin

Title: A Court of Wings and Ruin

Series: A Court of Thorns and Roses (Goodreads)
Publisher: Bloomsbury 
Genre: Fantasy, Romance
Author: Sarah J Maas
Age Group: YA
Source: Amazon (purchased)

Review

The end to a series is always bittersweet and A Court of Wings and Ruin is no exception. This was such a beautiful ending to a fantastic series. If you enjoy books with strong liberated and complex women than this is a series I would definitely recommend to you. It is also a great series if you value the importance of family and friendship too, exploring the highs, lows and complications of these very relationships. One of the main themes that runs through the series and is especially prominent in A Court of Wings and Ruin is that of acceptance of ones self and of others. This theme is especially linked to the characters that have faced traumas and are considered LGBTQ+. Though this series and this book in particular explore and discuss some difficult themes and issues there are still lots of fun and light-hearted moments too especially in relation to the friendships of the Inner Circle and the romantic relationships as well. Maas is an incredible writer not only because she creates strong and compelling characters and creates absorbing worlds but because she explores themes and issues of importance through the safety of a fantasy novel.

There will be some spoilers below!

Throughout the A court of Thorns and Roses series as well as in A Court of Wings and Ruin in particular there has always been the theme of trauma, living it and trying to overcome it. More importantly, it is not just woman that experience trauma but the men too which for me is so important to highlight because in real life no matter what your sex, gender, sexuality or race anyone could be a victim of a traumatic experience. Therefore, for Maas not to discriminate and say that it is only woman that experience and have to face traumas is a huge positive of this book and series overall. The protagonist Feyre is the most obvious character to undergo and face traumas as well as having to overcome them. However, I would like to mention the other characters Nesta and Lucian in particular who also live through painful traumas and how they have to process it afterwards. One of the main themes is sexual assault and lack of consent or forced consent and this relates in particular to Lucian. Lucian is pursued relentlessly by the priestess Ianthe who tries to force him into a non-consensual sexual relationship. Below is an extract of one of the scenes where Ianthe tries to sexually assault Lucian. I think it highlights that it is not just women who are sexually assaulted and are the only victims of this kind of assault but can actually be the perpetrators of assault and that men can actually also be the victims of sexual assault too. To say that it is only woman who are the victims of sexual assault is a dangerous way of thinking and that is why I believe Maas is an important author because she dispels this harmful ideology and actually highlights that men can be the victims of sexual assault and that women can be the ones to perform it too.

‘I heard Lucien first. “Back off.” A low female laugh. Everything in me went still and cold at that sound. […] “Do not touch me,” he growled. And then I was moving. I masked the sound of my footfalls, silent as a panther as I stalked to the little clearing where they stood. Where Lucien stood, back against a tree—twin bands of blue stone shackled around his wrists. I’d seen them before. On Rhys, to immobilize his power. Stone hewn from Hybern’s rotted land, capable of nullifying magic. And in this case … holding Lucien against that tree as Ianthe surveyed him like a snake before a meal. She slid a hand over the broad panes of his chest, his stomach. And Lucien’s eyes shot to me as I stepped between the trees, fear and humiliation reddening his golden skin.’

Although there are some challenging themes and issues this series and A Court of Wings and Ruin explore there are still tons of happy and uplifting moments and relationships too. For me the most powerful friendship and family relationships that bring enjoyment and happiness to this series and A Court of Wings and Ruin in particular is that of the Inner Circle. Feyre begins this book as a spy in another court and once she’s completed her task of undermining its High Lord and breaking their military defences she is able to return home to her own court. On trying to get home she and Lucian are attacked but are rescued by Azriel and Cassian. I love this moment when Feyre and Cassian are reunited after months of separation because it emphasises the strength and purity of their friendship:

‘I met those laughing, fierce hazel eyes. Cassian’s smile softened. “Hello, Feyre.” My throat tightened to the point of pain, and I threw my arms around his neck, embracing him tightly. “I missed you, too,” Cassian murmured, squeezing me.’

Feyre and Cassian’s friendship is only one example of those found amongst those in the Inner Circle and it is this groups pure love and devotion to each other that is the most beautiful and powerful part of A Court of Wings and Ruin and the series overall. In fact, it is the Inner Circle that is one of the most outstanding elements of this book and series and why I love this series as a whole. It is not only because they are devoted to each other and make me laugh at times between their interactions, but because they prove that there are always complications even when you love someone unconditionally, and it is these conflicts that can potentially strengthen a relationship and stresses the importance of accepting others for who they are, both the good and the bad.

Synopsis (From Goodreads)

Looming war threatens all Feyre holds dear in the third volume of the #1 New York Times bestselling A Court of Thorns and Roses series.

Feyre has returned to the Spring Court, determined to gather information on Tamlin's manoeuvrings and the invading king threatening to bring Prythian to its knees. But to do so she must play a deadly game of deceit – and one slip may spell doom not only for Feyre, but for her world as well.

As war bears down upon them all, Feyre must decide who to trust amongst the dazzling and lethal High Lords – and hunt for allies in unexpected places.

In this thrilling third book in the #1 New York Times bestselling series from Sarah J. Maas, the earth will be painted red as mighty armies grapple for power over the one thing that could destroy them all.

Key Quotes

'He might have completed the Great Rite with Ianthe of his own free will, but he certainly hadn’t enjoyed it. Some line had been blurred—badly. And my heart shifted a bit in my chest […] The weight of that jeweled knife and belt seemed to grow. “I wish I had been there to stop it. I should have been there to stop it.” I meant every word. Lucien squeezed our linked arms as we rounded a hedge, the house rising up before us. “You are a better friend to me, Feyre,” he said quietly, “than I ever was to you.”

“I see you brought home a new pet,” she said, nose crinkling with distaste. Something like fear had entered Lucien’s eye, as if he, too, beheld the monster that lurked beneath that beautiful face. Indeed, it seemed he had heard of her already. Before I could introduce him, Lucien bowed at the waist. Deeply. Cassian let out an amused grunt, and I shot him a warning glare. Amren smiled slightly. “Already trained, I see.”

“He wanted a—gift. In exchange. The Ouroboros.” The Suriel let out a sound that might have been a gasp—delight or horror, I did not know. “The Mirror of Beginnings and Endings.” “Yes—but … I cannot retrieve it.” “You are afraid to look. To see what is within.” “Will it drive me—mad? Break me?” It was an effort not to flinch at that monstrous face, at the milky eyes and lipless mouth. All focused upon me. “Only you can decide what breaks you, Cursebreaker. Only you.”

“… My gift is truth—and yet I have been living a lie my entire existence.” I squeezed her hand once more. “You’ll tell them when you’re ready. And I’ll stand by you no matter what. Until then … Your secret is safe. I won’t tell anyone—even Rhys.” “Thank you,” she breathed. I shook my head. “No—thank you for telling me…”

Similar Reads

The Cruel Prince, Serpent & Dove, Shadow and Bone, Six of Crows, From Blood and Ash, The Shadows Between Us, Shatter Me, Red Queen.

Afterthoughts

People that experience trauma do not always need to be strong afterwards, it will take time to process and come to terms with the traumatic experience. It will potentially be easier or more manageable with the right and supportive people surrounding you to help process the trauma.

When coming to terms with being LGBTQ+ it is on that persons terms that they must be comfortable and willing to talk to people. They should not be forced into sharing who they are until they have themselves accepted who they are and are comfortable that they will be accepted by those that matter to them most.

I really loved the developed relationships between Feyre and her sisters, Elain and Nesta. Also this book stresses that Rhys is more than just interested in sex with his partner but willing to sacrifice himself for his Court and people, with no exceptions!

Have you read the A Court of Thorns and Roses series, what did you think? 

If you've read A Court of Wings and Ruin I'd love to hear your thoughts!

Review - The Assassin's Blade

The Assassin's Blade

Title: The Assassin's Blade

Series: Throne of Glass (Goodreads)
Publisher: Bloomsbury 
Genre: Fantasy, Romance
Author: Sarah J. Maas   
Age Group: YA
Source: Amazon (purchased)

Review 

If you have read the main Throne of Glass books then this novella collection will not only give you more time with Celaena, to further understand her personal development, but to break your hearts. And if you have yet to read the main series, what are you waiting for? In fairness if you haven’t read the main series yet don’t worry. This novella collection will also help you to learn more about Celaena’s personal development but may spoil some key plots in the main series (so do read with caution). There are some different times when you can read this novella. You can either read it before the main series, which is absolutely fine if that’s your preference, but I personally would advise against this because you will not yet have the connection to the characters and the need to find out about who they have become because of past circumstances. The other times you can read this is either after Heir of Fire or Queen of Shadows, but definitely before Empire of Storms. I personally chose to read The Assassin’s Blade after Heir of Fire and am so glad I did, because I was securely invested in Celaena’s life and wanting to understand her development more. The last option is of course to read the novella after you have finished the main series.

There will be spoilers in this review!

The Assassin and the Pirate Lord

This story not only begins the protagonists story that we will later see developed throughout this novella itself but importantly continued into and throughout the main Throne of Glass series. This short story was fantastic because it began to show us the major relationship between Celaena and Sam. If you are a fan of hate to love romances than you will absolutely love Celaena and Sam’s relationship.

‘If Sam took one step toward her, drew his sword a fraction of an inch, that concealed dagger in her robe would find itself a new home in his neck.’

Some might say that is it really possible for an assassin to have a moral conscience. Well, if you read this short story than yes, it is. Celaena has been raised an assassin but remains opposed to the injustices of slavery. The main driving plot is how Celaena and Sam are desperate to free the slaves that Arobynn has sent them to collect from the pirate lord. Alongside their joint mission to save the slaves Celaena and Sam begin to develop a friendship and respect for one another not just as assassins but importantly as people.

‘Being hired to kill corrupt government officials was one thing, but taking prisoners of war, brutalizing them until they stopped fighting back, and sentencing them to a lifetime of slavery …’

 The Assassin and the Healer

This was the shortest story in the collection and for me was perhaps the one I was least keen on. We are introduced to Yrene a practising and hopeful healer and importantly another victim of the Adarlan King’s cruelty and corruption. Though we only spend a short while with Yrene she is a an interesting and compelling new character that maybe hopefully we will see again in the main series. There is a major but subtle spoiler that is key to Yrene and this is why I hope we get to see her developed and brought into the main series.

‘But she’d wanted to be a healer—like her mother and grandmother. She’d started shadowing her mother as soon as she could talk, learning slowly, as all the traditional healers did.’

As for Celaena she has been sent away as punishment by Arobynn, the master assassin and owner of Celaena and Sam (he has insured that they are indebted to him with unpayable prices). We see her healing from a brutal beating, ‘She avoided looking in the sliver of mirror above her dresser, knowing what she’d see: mottled purple and blue and yellow along her cheekbones, a vicious black eye, and a still healing split lip. It was all a reminder of what Arobynn had done the day she returned from Skull’s Bay—proof of how she’d betrayed him by saving two hundred slaves from a terrible fate’. But she meets Yrene and so this leads to an interesting interaction between the two young woman.

The interaction shows how there have been many injustices and victims that have suffered the Adarlan King’s cruelty, that as a result people have become displaced and forced into lives they would not have wanted or wished for:

‘There were so many of them now—the children who had lost everything to Adarlan. Children who had now grown into assassins and barmaids, without a true place to call home, their native kingdoms left in ruin and ash.’

But both Yrene and Celaena as strong young woman show that there is hope that the King has yet to break every single individual.

 The Assassin and the Desert

This story was my second least favourite of the novella but that did not stop me from enjoying it. I just felt it moved too slowly towards the main action. However, this story was important in terms of offering Celaena an alternative look at a different assassin’s community as well as the chance for female friendship and most importantly gave her the much needed distance and time away from the oppressive, grooming, and cruel assassin master Arobynn. It also allowed Celaena a chance to begin to process and think through her evolving feelings for Sam.

One of the key differences between where Celaena has been raised and taught by Arobynn and the assassin’s guild is the encouragement of sharing and respecting other assassins and what they have to offer one another. That assassins do not have to be at each other’s throats and see one another as an enemy or competitor but as someone who can share their knowledge and skills to better educate each other, this for me was one of the key redeeming plots of this short story.

‘…it seemed that there was a good deal less … viciousness here. Arobynn encouraged cutthroat behavior. Even when they were children, he’d set her and Sam against each other, use their victories and failures against them. He’d made her see everyone but Arobynn and Ben as a potential enemy. As allies, yes, but also as foes to be closely watched. Weakness was never to be shown at any cost. Brutality was rewarded. And education and culture were equally important—words could be just as deadly as steel. But the Silent Assassins … Though they, too, might be killers, they looked to one another for learning. Embraced collective wisdom.’

 The Assassin and the Underworld

Celaena has finally returned home to Rifthold and the controlling hands of Arobynn. We see that Celaena has begun to challenge what she wants for herself and the recent injustices and punishment she has faced from Arobynn. We see her struggle through her thoughts and relationship to Arobynn. For me, reading this I could see that Arobynn has groomed her, and it is very tricky to not only escape the clutches of a controlling and charismatic man like Arobynn but find a justifiable and necessary reason to confront and accept for yourself that you have been victimised and need to break free from their physical self as well as their mental influences.

“Every day,” he went on. “Every day since you left, I’ve gone to the temple of Kiva to pray for forgiveness.” She might have snorted at the idea of the King of the Assassins kneeling before a statue of the God of Atonement, but his words were so raw. Was it possible that he actually regretted what he had done?’

As for Celaena and Sam it is the first time they have seen each other since she was sent away. And this evolving relationship does not come easily to Celaena, yes she has a newfound respect and appreciation for him, but that does not undo the long-term teachings to see him as her competitor and challenger to her position as Arobynn’s protégée and Adarlan’s greatest assassin.

‘Sam could have hurt or betrayed her a dozen times over, but he’d never jumped at the opportunity. A half smile tugged at a corner of her lips. She’d missed him. Seeing the expression on her face, he gave her a bewildered sort of grin. She swallowed, feeling the words bubbling up through her—I missed you—but the door to the drawing room opened. ’

In this short story we finally see Sam confess to his long hidden feelings for Celaena and it is the most beautiful and joyous moment not only for the readers but these characters too. Sam finally confesses to Celaena that he loves her and has for a long time, that following the beating and punishment for freeing the slaves he could no longer hide his feelings and that Arobynn having always known this manipulated him using his feelings against him:

“But my punishment was having to watch him beat you that night.”

“I’ve already told you everything—I’ve already told you that if I stay here, if I have to live with Arobynn, I’ll snap his damned neck.” “But why? Why can’t you let it go?” He grabbed her shoulders and shook her. “Because I love you!” Her mouth fell open. “I love you,” he repeated, shaking her again. “I have for years. And he hurt you and made me watch because he’s always known how I felt, too. But if I asked you to pick, you’d choose Arobynn, and I. Can’t. Take. It.”

 The Assassin and the Empire

This final short story is by far the most heart-breaking and grievous. If you have read the main Throne of Glass series then you will know what tragic event occurs. But if you haven’t I will not share this event. All I will say is that it explains why Celaena starts off as a slave of Endovier in the main first book, and one of the reasons why I did not read The Assassin’s Blade first but rather after Heir of Fire.

Celaena and Sam have both payed off their debts to Arobynn and moved into an apartment owned by Celaena. However, having read through the series of short stories it is undeniable that it is impossible to truly escape the clutches and influences of someone like Arobynn, because he does not leave them alone. Arobynn has seen them both as his own property, he believes that he owns them and they are his to do with as a he pleases, so even though they have moved into their own apartment and exploring their evolving love, feelings and relationship with one another Arobynn will not let go of his control over their lives.

“I don’t like sharing my belongings.” – Arobynn

I absolutely loved seeing Celaena and Sam together and they are an absolutely adorable couple and it’s for this very reason that the tragedy that occurs is so heart-breaking. They are finally just enjoying being together and enjoying a bit of fun with one another not only because it’s a new relationship but because they are also young and exploring the boundaries of their own sexualities and the boundaries of their relationship.

'Sam kissed her ear, his teeth grazing her earlobe, and her heart stumbled a beat. “Don’t use kissing to swindle me into accepting your apology,” she got out, even as she tilted her head to the side to allow him better access. He chuckled, his breath caressing her neck. “It was worth a shot.”

This short story concludes by tying into the first book in the main series. Having read this novella I finally understood the reason as to why Celaena had become a slave and was glad to have found out after reading Throne of Glass rather than before it. For me, personally, though Celaena has become a shadow of her former self, more broken by the events and cruelties from the people in her life, I do believe we see a glimpse of some remaining strength. Celaena has yet to be truly broken and can be brought back from the edge and helped into recovery:

‘A breeze filled the wagon [...]She must stand up... She must stand, or be broken before she even entered Endovier.’

‘She would go into Endovier. Go into Hell. And she would not crumble. [...] She would survive this.’

“My name is Celaena Sardothien,” she whispered, “and I will not be afraid.” The wagon cleared the wall and stopped. Celaena raised her head. [...] I will not be afraid. Celaena Sardothien lifted her chin and walked into the Salt Mines of Endovier.’

Synopsis (From Goodreads) 

Celaena Sardothien owes her reputation to Arobynn Hamel. He gave her a home at the Assassins' Guild and taught her the skills she needed to survive.

Arobynn's enemies stretch far and wide - from Adarlan's rooftops and its filthy dens, to remote islands and hostile deserts. Celaena is duty-bound to hunt them down. But behind her assignments lies a dark truth that will seal her fate - and cut her heart in two forever...

Explore the dark underworld of this kick-ass heroine and find out how the legend begins in the five page-turning prequel novellas to the New York Times bestselling Throne of Glass series.

Key Quotes 

‘He loved her like family, yet he put her in the most dangerous positions. He nurtured and educated her, yet he’d obliterated her innocence the first time he’d made her end a life. He’d given her everything, but he’d also taken everything away. She could no sooner sort out her feelings toward the King of the Assassins than she could count the stars in the sky.’

'the billowing black cape, the exquisite clothing, and the mask transformed her into a whisper of darkness.'

"...If I’m going to kill you, Celaena, it’ll be when I can actually get away with it.” She scowled. “I appreciate that.”

‘One of the courtesans on the swings flew by so low that their fingers brushed. The touch sent sparks shooting through her. This was more than a party: it was a performance, an orgy, and a call to worship at the altar of excess. Celaena was a willing sacrifice.'

“My name is Wind,” she whispered. “And Rain. And Bone and Dust. My name is a snippet of a half-remembered song.” [...] “I have no name,” she purred. “I am whoever the keepers of my fate tell me to be.”

Similar reads

The Cruel Prince, Shadow and Bone, Serpent & Dove

Afterthoughts

I hope to see some of the characters introduced brought into the main Throne of Glass series. This includes Lysandra, Arobynn, Yrene and Ansel.


Have you read The Assassin's Blade, what did you think?


Have you read the main Throne of Glass series, how did you feel when reading this novella as an extension to the series?

Review - Heir of Fire

Heir of Fire

Title: Heir of Fire
Series: Throne of Glass (Goodreads)
Publisher: Bloomsbury
Genre: Fantasy, Romance
Author: Sarah J. Maas   
Age Group: YA
Source: Amazon (purchased)

Review

I am only three books into this series and I am already obsessed and in awe of Maas’ skills as a writer and the complex but intriguing characters she has created. This is definitely for me one of the hardest series to review without giving spoilers because there is so much in this ya fantasy that happens that depends on spoilers. However, I am definitely going to try and continue to review this series as best I can by avoiding spoilers whilst still sharing the excitement of this book and overall series as I continue to read it.

I would like to start with what I thought was perhaps the weakest part of Heir of Fire and for me that was the lack of development for Chaol and Dorian. Although I could see instances were there was the possibility and chance for development it just wasn’t reached and for me this was a real shame. Out of the two of these characters I definitely think that Dorian had the least personal development and his story arc felt like an unnecessary filler rather than something that was actually powerful enough to push him to challenge and develop as a character in the world that he is an individual of. Considering the fact that the previous book, Crown of Midnight, opened up a huge opportunity for Dorian to develop unfortunately this book did not take that chance up and instead found Dorian mostly unneeded in this book (that is until the cliff-hanger we are left with, another chance for development that I hope will be better because I do really love Dorian and what he brings to the series). Though, I will say that as earlier stated there were instances of development between Chaol and Dorian which were strong and hopefully allows development in the next books of this series. One of the instances is when Dorian challenges Chaol’s worldly prejudices, and I think was a great example not only of their potential for character development but Maas’s abilities as a writer too to make her readers think (yes, even in a ya fantasy):

“… And of course you wish she wasn’t who she is. Because you’re not really scared of those things, are you? No—it’s what they represent. The change. But let me tell you…things have already changed. And changed because of you…” […] “As for Celaena,” he said again, “you do not have the right to wish she were not what she is. The only thing you have a right to do is decide whether you are her enemy or her friend.” […] So he stared down his friend, even though he knew Chaol was hurting and adrift, and said, “I’ve already made my decision about her. And when the time comes, regardless of whether you are here or in Anielle, I hope your choice is the same as mine.”

In the previous book, Crown of Midnight, there was a huge cliff-hanger that left an open opportunity for the development of magic that has been slowly introduced and developed since the first book. You will not be disappointed by Heir of Fire and its continued ability to develop the magic system, which one would expect in a fantasy ya. Though I will not personally give away all that happens I will admit one key plot-line that has been hinted at since Throne of Glass and that is that we finally meet real life Fae (though not from Adarlan). Heir of Fire for me undoubtedly saw an incredible and strong character development for Celaena. From the previous book she is still processing and struggling with some difficult events, that I will not discuss because no one likes a spoiler, but this has left her struggling by herself with no one to talk to or more importantly because she is unwilling to forgive and seek help from others. However, through an unlikely relationship that develops throughout Heir of Fire Celaena does slowly begin to talk to another individual and begin to process her struggles and emotions. But this is not a quick process and one that leads to a hugely compelling relationship development between herself and the one she receives help from as well as I’ve already stated a chance for her to heal as an individual too.

“There is this … rage,” she said hoarsely. “This despair and hatred and rage that lives and breathes inside me. There is no sanity to it, no gentleness. It is a monster dwelling under my skin. For the past ten years, I have worked every day, every hour, to keep that monster locked up. And the moment I talk about those two days, and what happened before and after, that monster is going to break loose, and there will be no accounting for what I do. […] “For whatever it’s worth, I don’t think you would destroy the world from spite.” His voice turned hard. “But I also think you like to suffer. You collect scars because you want proof that you are paying for whatever sins you’ve committed. And I know this because I’ve been doing the same damn thing for two hundred years.”

Heir of Fire also saw an introduction of some fantastic new characters that will become and have already shown their huge importance to the development and continuation of this series. The new characters include Manon, Rowan and Aedion. I hugely admire and respect Maas’s ability as a writer to create a host of distinct characters that she is able to maintain and give each their own personalities and voices to that do not read the same (this is a huge feat for any author and Maas is absolutely incredible for managing this so successfully). At the end I found that I’m in absolute adoration of Manon and Rowan in particular and cannot wait to see more of them in the rest of the series I leave you with the following quote about Manon:

‘She counted to ten, because she wanted to hunt, and had been that way since she tore through her mother’s womb and came roaring and bloody into this world.’

Synopsis (From Goodreads)

Consumed by guilt and rage, Celaena can't bring herself to spill blood for the King of Adarlan. She must fight back...

The Immortal Queen will help her destroy the king - for a price. But as Celaena battles with her darkest memories and her heart breaks for a love that could never last, can she fulfil the bargain and head the almighty court of Terrasen? And who will stand with her?

Key Quotes 

'Chaol closed his eyes for a moment. “A part of me will always love her. But I had to get her out of this castle. Because it was too dangerous, and she was … what she was becoming…” “She was not becoming anything different from what she always was and always had the capacity to be. You just finally saw everything. And once you saw that other part of her …,” Dorian said quietly. It had taken him until now, until Sorscha, to understand what that meant. “You cannot pick and choose what parts of her to love.” He pitied Chaol, he realized. His heart hurt for his friend, for all that Chaol had surely been realizing these past few months. “Just as you cannot pick which parts of me you accept.”

‘She had made a vow—a vow to free Eyllwe. […] Celaena had decided on one plan to follow when she reached these shores. One plan, however insane and unlikely, to free the enslaved kingdom: find and obliterate the Wyrdkeys the King of Adarlan had used to build his terrible empire. She’d gladly destroy herself to carry it out. Just her, just him. Just as it should be; no loss of life beyond their own, no soul stained but hers. It would take a monster to destroy a monster.’

‘She’d deserved that particular blow in the brawl she’d provoked in last night’s taberna—she’d kicked a man’s balls into his throat, and when he’d caught his breath, he’d been enraged, to say the least.’

“Does your lover know what you are?” A cold question. […] She heard, more than felt, something die from her voice as she said, “We’re not—together. Not anymore. I let him go before I came here.” He looked over his shoulder. “Why?” Flat, bored. But still, slightly curious. What did she care if he knew? She’d curled her hand into a fist in her lap, her knuckles white. […] “Because he’s safer if he’s as repulsed by me as you are.” “At least you’ve already learned one lesson.” When she cocked her head, he said, “The people you love are just weapons that will be used against you.”

“Why don’t I give you the lashing you deserve?” He looked so dead set on it that she blinked. “If you ever take a whip to me, I will skin you alive.” He let go of her and stalked around the clearing, a predator assessing its prey.’ 

Similar reads

The Cruel Prince, The Shadows Between Us, Red Queen, Serpent & Dove, Six of Crows, Shadow and Bone

Afterthoughts

Who would you cast for a Throne of Glass adaptation?

What are your thoughts on this series?

Did you enjoy Heir of Fire?

Which new characters did you love from Heir of Fire?