When nineteen-year-old huntress Feyre kills a wolf in the woods, a beast-like creature arrives to demand retribution for it. Dragged to a treacherous magical land she only knows about from legends, Feyre discovers that her captor is not an animal, but Tamlin—one of the lethal, immortal faeries who once ruled their world.

As she dwells on his estate, her feelings for Tamlin transform from icy hostility into a fiery passion that burns through every lie and warning she's been told about the beautiful, dangerous world of the Fae. But an ancient, wicked shadow grows over the faerie lands, and Feyre must find a way to stop it . . . or doom Tamlin—and his world—forever.

Perfect for fans of Kristin Cashore and George R. R. Martin, this first book in a sexy and action-packed new series is impossible to put down!

GOODREADS

My Review

Author: Sarah J. Maas
Date of Publication: May 5, 2015
Pages: 416
Source: Library

Despite my previous blog being The Book Faerie, I've never been a fan of YA faeries. Until now; until Sarah J. Maas.

I think Maas brings to faerie stories what not many other do; she creates her own mythology or builds on previous ones in a way that sets her story apart. Many books assume that everyone knows about the 'general faerie mythology' like the Unseelie and Seelie courts. I don't, not really, and so I can be easily put off by books like The Iron King by Julie Kagawa which everyone, but I, liked.

Beyond being a book about faeries, ACOTAR is also a retelling of beauty and the beast. Maas took an interesting path with the old tale and spun it to encompass a magical world filled with warring species of humans, fae and a not-so-beastly Tamlin.

Tamlin is not your conventional beast. Sure he has claws and a beast form, but his curse isn't one of such an obvious nature. No, Tamlin was charming to say the least. His and Feyre's gradual friendship or rather courtship was very sweet to read about. My only struggle with Tamlin was that he didn't give away much about himself which makes it harder for me know and understand him.

On the other hand, Feyre was an open book, which probably has a lot to do with her being the narrator... Seriously though, I adored her. She was a strong girl who had to grow up fast in order to take care of her family. But inside, she was still just a girl who wanted enough food and some paint.

The first half of the book was slow winding but enjoyable as we watched Feyre explore the fae world and come to know Tamlin better. However, what blew this book away for me was the second portion which I literally read in one night. One word: Rhys.

Everything up to then was good and interesting but Rhys, he brought something completely different to the table. Otherwise known as Amarantha's whore, Rhys was dark, handsome and cunning. He played the games that faeries are credited with and he played them well. It felt like in the first half I'd been under a glamour and Rhys turned it off. I also like to think of him as the unlikely hero who needs to be given more credit.

Overall, ACOTAR is definitely one of Sarah J. Maas' better books which is saying something as I've enjoyed all of her books. What I am noticing, however, is that she manages to visibly grow as a writer in each book. So while I may have had minimal to zero issues with her previous works, she still manages to increase the quality of her stories and I'm impatient to see how amazing her future works prove to be.

-MARI

I know this is a popular twitter meme but I thought I would move it over to the blog and give it a go every now and then when I'm reading an interesting book.

It has been a while since I've done one of these and I got to say I'm kind of excited. 

Instagram

I stayed up late last night devouring the second half of ACOTAR. Today I read the final two percent during my bus ride. As expected by literally everyone: I thought it was amazing, especially the second half. Review to come.

I started to read The Winner's Crime by Marie Rutkoski, the sequel to one of my favourite 2014 books: The Winner's Curse. So far so good, I just wish my kobo would display the beautiful cover in colour. Alas, black and white is all I have :)

-MARI

Author: Sarah J. Maas
Date of Publication: September 2 2014
Pages: 562
Source: Library ebook

Lost and broken, Celaena Sardothien’s only thought is to avenge the savage death of her dearest friend: as the King of Adarlan’s Assassin, she is bound to serve this tyrant, but he will pay for what he did. Any hope Celaena has of destroying the king lies in answers to be found in Wendlyn. Sacrificing his future, Chaol, the Captain of the King’s Guard, has sent Celaena there to protect her, but her darkest demons lay in that same place. If she can overcome them, she will be Adarlan’s biggest threat – and his own toughest enemy. 

While Celaena learns of her true destiny, and the eyes of Erilea are on Wendlyn, a brutal and beastly force is preparing to take to the skies. Will Celaena find the strength not only to win her own battles, but to fight a war that could pit her loyalties to her own people against those she has grown to love?


This review will be written as a letter to Sarah J. Maas.

Dear Sarah J. Maas,

I'm sorry that we got off on the wrong foot. I truly am. You see, I was not a fan of Throne of Glass. I did not like Celaena, I thought Chaol was dull (maybe that hasn't changed), and I thought the story was not all that original. It could have also been that I was in a terrible mood, because I am a mood reader. I was completely ready to give up on this series, and I would have, had not literally everyone, including my co-blogger told me to continue.

When the positive reviews for Crown of Midnight rolled on, one major theme I saw was that people said this was better than Throne of Glass. Still, I was skeptical. I had, at that time, made it a goal of mine to be much more selective about the books I read and I'm sorry that I didn't have much faith. It's not even like I hated Throne of Glass-- I just didn't seem to connect to any part of the story. With the urge of the blogging community and Mari, I gave it a try.

I think I approached Crown of Midnight in a "show me what you got" kind of way, and I was really happy when it started to click for me. I mean, look at the shining enthusiasm of my review!

Crown of Midnight is an entertaining novel. It has an interesting plot and mythology that, I admit, I was suspicious of, up to a certain point where it completely won me over. 

But there was hope. I was soooooo happy with a certain plot twist that was just brilliant because it raised the level of the whole series. I was so hopeful that the next book would be good.

Sarah J. Maas, I was so freaking wrong. I was soooooooo wrong about this series because it is special, thrilling, and fun. Celaena is a phenomenal character, and the world is fascinating. I'm so happy that I've enjoyed every book you wrote even more. Case in point: I read Heir of Fire in two sittings-- when I went to bed yesterday, and it was the first thing I did when I woke up today (#summervacation!!). And it was engrossing, and fun, and thrilling, and superlative superlative superlative



You converted me into a major fan. I am so happy I continued with your books and I am so sorry I doubted your brilliance. I mean, this is me right now.



I am now a total fan of Celaena and her world, and am so totally dying for the next book. Also, there's a good chance I'm going to devour A Court of Thorn and Roses too.

Now let's get to what I love about Heir of Fire.

ZOMG new characters! They were brilliant! I loved the new characters so much. I loved how you developed them, and I loved that they were complicated and fascinating and strong. There are obviously some I loved more than others (I'll keep it spoiler free and not mention who) but I'm still squealing and swooning over one character so yayy.



I mean, these characters were so fierce and they had their own back stories. I loved that there was a (don't kill me for this comparison) but Game of Throne-esque situation in which different characters and actors from all across this lovely world were doing their own thing and building their own storylines and it felt like watching Dani train her dragons while Robb was learning to be king and you just know that these story lines will converge one day and it shall be spectacular. So, this part, the split perspectives and managing to make each story engaging in its own way, was wonderful.

Perhaps the biggest turnaround is my new love for Celaena. I just never connected with her and felt there was something off until the twist of the last book, and in this book, I began to truly love her. This poor girl and I finally built a relationship and I thought she was so strong and charming. I could connect with her and I even shed a few tears! I thought the character development in Heir of Fire for Celaena was extremely strong because her character was at a point where she could refresh herself and build herself up to be stronger. I thought that learning about what made Celaena tick, learning about her past and her regrets and fears truly made me sympathize with her and I finally started to connect to her. I think this sort of character development, most pronounced in Celaena's plot but subtly in all the characters' POVs is an essential part of what makes Heir of Fire good. I loved that they were all learning about life and sometimes it was uncomfortable for them, but I loved moral ambiguities and characters having to make tough decisions. I'm evil in that way.

And the magic and mythology! It was so much fun. I was happy dancing at some points because I thought the story was so much fun. I loved the triumphs of some of the characters and there were a lot of OMG YESSS but there was also one character who got a super tough deal and seeing as they are a favourite of mine, I hope they're okay. The magic was exhilarating. We all got past ice-breakers and introductions and finally we're getting to the core of the story, and I love that you, lovely author, are still doing new things and introducing major surprises. So thanks for keeping it fresh!

Now, if there is one more request I have, seeing as I'm a picky reader and seeing as how you have delivered in everything I wanted in my last review, it's to make sure this story stays dark. There are some lovely moments of triumph, and I relish them. However, these moments are made all the more impactful by the hard times. I thought Heir of Fire was great because it was the darkest story so far and the characters had to go through tough shit. Sometimes, the lure of destiny is a little too strong and although this story could easily go in the way of a black vs white, good vs evil conflict, I think it's stronger when the heroes are tragic. The characters have made certain choices and I'm really hoping that we see them have to consider the impact of their choices, and live with some of the negative consequences too. Of course, this is a personal preference of mine and Sarah J. Maas, you can do whatever the hell you want to do.

Also, why did you leave with that ending? Why? Is it because you hate your readers? You want us to suffer in agony as we desperately crave the rest of Celaena's story? Authors are really cruel sometimes.



I love you all anyway.

In any case, I was wrong, I'm so happy with this series, I'm eagerly anticipating the next book, and omg leave a comment so we can fangirl about some of the stuff that happened! Thank you Sarah J. Maas and I'm so excited for the sequel!

Thanks again and I'm sorry for doubting you,


P.E.

Author: Sarah J. Maas
Date of Publication: September 2, 2014
Pages: 562
Source: Library

Lost and broken, Celaena Sardothien’s only thought is to avenge the savage death of her dearest friend: as the King of Adarlan’s Assassin, she is bound to serve this tyrant, but he will pay for what he did. Any hope Celaena has of destroying the king lies in answers to be found in Wendlyn. Sacrificing his future, Chaol, the Captain of the King’s Guard, has sent Celaena there to protect her, but her darkest demons lay in that same place. If she can overcome them, she will be Adarlan’s biggest threat – and his own toughest enemy. 

While Celaena learns of her true destiny, and the eyes of Erilea are on Wendlyn, a brutal and beastly force is preparing to take to the skies. Will Celaena find the strength not only to win her own battles, but to fight a war that could pit her loyalties to her own people against those she has grown to love?

GOODREADS

Review:

Exactly how many ways can one explain their undying love and still sound original, because I can't find any words to write this review. Can we please just bow down to Sarah J Maas and her epic story telling? This book took a story set in a small place, Adarlan, and expanded it seamlessly. I think I just witnessed the Big Bang.

Wendelyn wasn’t the show-stopper. Instead, it was the characters we met in this magical land. The little folks, the demi-fae and the greatest of all, the fae prince, Rowan!!! There was also a cameo from the frosty Maeve... she was very cold… Back to Rowan! I can’t say his name without adding exclamations. Will I anger many if I say that I kind of wished for a romantic plot between Celaena and Rowan? Either way, these two are probably the most compatible pair in history. Their relationship was one of camaraderie at its best.

Heir of Fire is a connective book. A lot happens but it’s evident that the real plot lies in Adarlan, where things are being set up for Celaena’s return. 

This is where Celaena grows the most. She comes to Rowan a heartbroken brat but leaves a Warrior Queen who has challenged her demons and come out on top. Finally getting to see the depth of what haunted her brought me so much closer to understanding her. I finally think I know Celaena; I know what makes her tick.

There are so many fantastic new characters introduced in this book. Prince Rowan of Maeve’s Court is a shining star. He was this cold brute of a fae warrior who I didn't even blink over until I realized the guy was here to stay and how happy am I that he did. Rowan is ruthless and uncouth but he is soft and scarred from a long life filled with battle scars.

Another worthy mention is Aedion, The Wolf of the North, Celaena’s childhood betrothed and the current Kind of Adarlan’s pawn. I wish I learned more about him, but from what I did see, I respect the man; especially with what he did in the end.

I don’t have many complaints, but I wish Chaol did more in this one. Obviously this was a bridge book for Celaena and there was progress in Chaol’s side of the story as well but I guess it’s just not the same without having both of them in the same place. 

I cannot wait for the next book. It hurts my heart to think that I’ve waited 3 year to get to the third book and have to wait another 3 to finally finish this series, but I’ll do what I have to do to get to the bottom of this epic tale. 

-MARI

Author: Sarah J. Maas
Date of Publication: August 27 2013
Pages: 420
Source: Library
Series: Throne of Glass #2

From the throne of glass rules a king with a fist of iron and a soul black as pitch. Assassin Celaena Sardothien won a brutal contest to become his Champion. Yet Celaena is far from loyal to the crown. She hides her secret vigilantly; she knows that the man she serves is bent on evil.

Keeping up the deadly charade becomes increasingly difficult when Celaena realizes she is not the only one seeking justice. As she tries to untangle the mysteries buried deep within the glass castle, her closest relationships suffer. It seems no one is above questioning her allegiances—not the Crown Prince Dorian; not Chaol, the Captain of the Guard; not even her best friend, Nehemia, a foreign princess with a rebel heart.

Then one terrible night, the secrets they have all been keeping lead to an unspeakable tragedy. As Celaena's world shatters, she will be forced to give up the very thing most precious to her and decide once and for all where her true loyalties lie...and whom she is ultimately willing to fight for.

Review:

I gave Celaena Sardothien another chance after not enjoying Throne of Glass.

Crown of Midnight is an entertaining novel. It has an interesting plot and mythology that, I admit, I was suspicious of, up to a certain point where it completely won me over. There was a plot twist that I totally didn't expect, and when it came, it kind of "saved" my opinion of this series because all my questions and concerns were answered.

My feelings for Celaena also evolved from irritation to, well, not irritation. I think Crown of Midnight helped me understand her character and her reactions. I'm still not completely won over because I feel like Celaena is a bit of a hypocrite. She does awful things yet she is still righteous, judging people for the stuff they do yet this same moral code doesn't seem to apply when it comes to her. Also, the level of violence she is responsible for personally is a bit staggering, and I don't think she's very accountable for her actions.

One of my surprise favourite characters is Dorian. I adore Dorian. Dorian has his own storyline in Crown of Midnight and I feel like he was quite human. What I like about Dorian is the constant contrast between what he feels and how he acts. As a prince, he has grown up to be diplomatic under a ruthless father. Fate has some shit in store for Dorian, and his parts were probably my favorite of the story. On the other hand, I'm still not completely sold on Chaol. I mean, I think he's a nice guy and all, but he's really not a character I find very compelling. He is so solidly loyal, and reminds me a bit like a puppy. He made some decisions he'll have to live with at the end of Crown of Midnight, so I'm hopeful that his character will grow.

There is a bit of a love triangle in Crown of Midnight, but it is resolved rather quickly. And, this is a positive: I didn't find Crown of Midnight to be a romance masking itself as a fantasy. There was some romance, but it had its role furthering the plot. It wasn't the entire plot, and I liked the way it was handled, if not the specifics of the characters' actions.

Learning about Adarlan was also a highlight. The king's sinister hold on the kingdom, and the means behind his conquest were introduced. In fact, I think Crown of Midnight introduced the series better than Throne of Glass. Crown of Midnight advanced the plot more, while Throne of Glass was all about the characters. And I recall thinking most of the characters didn't interest me in ToG, so there has been some progress!

Ultimately, Crown of Midnight made me so much more interested in Celaena's series. It was an engrossing read that was often exciting. I think the story had improved, and I hope to see more improvements as the story progresses! And yes, I will finish the series because I am now quite hooked on the plot.

-P.E.

A discussion between Mari and P.E.

We talk a lot about books we love on TSC. That's wonderful and we should keep it that way because talking about good books makes us happy. However, it's healthy to take a break sometimes and go against the norm. Today, lets talk about some books that other liked and we utterly despised. P.E?

I don't feel comfortable saying I've ever despised a book, except for that one book that killed off one of my favourite characters (but most people weren't into that book either). I will say that some books have not lived up to the hype. One that comes straight to mind is one I recently read, and a book I know you won't like hearing this about: Such a Rush by Jennifer Echols. I couldn't get into it, and I honestly don't understand the hype it gets. (Sorry, Mari.)

I feel like you're going to be stuck on that one for a long time. Honestly, I think it was more your fault (dragged it out too long) than the book but you're not the only one who didn't like it so no worries. Since we're going head on, I'm going to mention The Scorpio Races by Maggie Stiefvater (ohhh ya). I was so crazy about this book, always ogling at it in the book stores until I finally got it from the library and it disappointed me. I know you're going to argue that the book was supposed to be slow and sensual with fantastic writing. I'll give in, the writing was great but I wanted more, some action, some relationships, anything to move the plot forward.

Oh snap, you did NOT go there. The Scorpio Races was subtle and gorgeous! And the characters were fantastic, how could you not like it?! Speaking of books we disagree on, how about Throne of Glass? I was expecting a badass read but I thought the book was all talk without much action. Celaena spent more time fawning over boys then really being the kickass heroine she was supposed to be. I was actually pretty disappointed in that one. 

Oh yes I did! I read to save myself from boredom and TSR didn't help at all. As for Throne of Glass, I completely agree. Celaena, a starved assassin turned prisoner is released and instead of exacting revenge she jumps around looking at dresses and shaking in her corset every time she sees the king. But, I'm going to writing it off as a human flaw. You for one should understand her predicament. Everyone see's her as tough, or super studious in your case, but when exposed to frilly dresses you both melt. 

No I don't- *looks at tweets about Oscar dresses* *shuts up* Regardless, I didn't think her characterization was consistent. You'll chalk it up as a human flaw, and I'll see it as a flaw in the story. I'm going to bring up another book that everyone seems to adore but me. I'm not that into Shatter Me by Tahereh Mafi. The story is so slow and the writing is interesting, but I get bored of it pretty quickly because the characters don't interest me either. What did you think of that one?

I actually really enjoyed Shatter Me when I read it but it's been a few years now and it really didn't leave a lasting impression. I don't feel like reading the next books so it has been put to the side for me. I'm not sure exactly why, but I think it's the back story which I found weak. I do really like Warner though.

I think I didn't mind Shatter Me too much, but the sequel really let me down. I guess I'm not that into Warner and I didn't like Juliet's flip flopping between Adam and Warner. Any other book that comes to mind?

This one I've been confused over for a while. Glass Houses, the first book in the Morganville Vampire series. I plain did not like it. The characters were nothing special, the vampire town was weird and her parents were never around. Who sends there kid to a backwater town to study at a community college rather than Princeton, Harvard etc, especially when they are a genius. No, the excuse of her being too young does not suffice.

At this point you have to be trolling me. I enjoyed that series. The dynamic between the vampires and the humans, the danger, poor little Claire slowly growing up and proving people wrong... it was lots of fun. I don't have an explanation for your complaint (I read that book years ago) but I remember being completely okay with the bizarre world and the fascinating characters. Another book for me that would make this list is The Tyrant's Daughter. My review is upcoming for it so I won't say too much besides that it disappointed me so much, and I'm honestly shocked that I seem to be alone in that regard. I even scoured Goodreads searching for a low star reviews but I couldn't find any. 

I think I might have been impressed if I had read it when I was 14 or something, but by 16 I had already outgrown the plot and characters. 

What Do You Think?

One of the best parts of the year end, besides my birthday, is the fact that now we're even closer to the release of some widely anticipated books. There are sequels, debuts, fantasies, contemporaries you name it. Oh the smell of a new year of books. 

Due to the enormity of my list, I'm going to split this into short spotlights of a few books I'm most excited for. I’m going to start with my most anticipated sequels as it seems that I can’t stop picking up books in a series.

Lady Thief - A.C. Gaughen

A retelling of Robin Hood and his band but with a twist! I absolutely loved the first book in this series Scarlet, to the point that it ranked among my top 5 favourite reads of 2013. As you can tell, I was very happy to hear that the author was writing a sequel and I can't wait to get my hands on it. Also, I love the covers in this series. They are nothing too extravagant but they are fitting for the time period they depict. 

Erased - Jennifer Rush

Altered was a spontaneous pick. I'd seen it around on my goodreads feed and decided to read the synopsis. One thing led to another and the next thing I knew I had downloaded the book and was halfway through it. The first one in the series was a lot of fun and action so I'm hoping more from this one. This series also reminds me a lot of Kelley Armstrong's The Darkest Powers Trilogy which is another favourite!

The Geography of You and Me  - Jennifer E. Smith

This series has been a bit of a hit and miss with me. I loved The Statistical Probability of Love at First Sight but was disappointed by This is What Happy Looks Like. However, I have high hopes for this one. I love how Jennifer E. Smith sets each of her books somewhere else. It makes the read even more interesting. I can’t wait to see all the places she visits in this one. Also, that cover!!!

Mortal Heart - R.L. LaFevers

I'm way too excited to jump back into this world! Mortal Heart is the final book in the His Fair Assassin Trilogy about assassin nuns! I know, go read Grave Mercy! I love strong heroines who can fight and defend themselves. Put them in corsets, give them a dagger, add chivalrous knights and oh man it’s hard for me to avoid them for long!

Throne of Glass #3 - Sarah J. Maas

The ending to Crown of Midnight was a killer; so many possibilities! Chaol and Celaena are quickly becoming one of my new obsessions, so I can't wait to read more about their story.

What Are You Anticipating This New Year?

-MARI

Author: Sarah J. Mass
Date of Publication: August 27,2013
Pages: 420
Source: Bought

After a year of hard labor in the Salt Mines of Endovier, eighteen-year-old assassin Celaena Sardothien has won the king's contest to become the new royal assassin. Yet Celaena is far from loyal to the crown – a secret she hides from even her most intimate confidantes.

Keeping up the deadly charade—while pretending to do the king's bidding—will test her in frightening new ways, especially when she's given a task that could jeopardize everything she's come to care for. And there are far more dangerous forces gathering on the horizon -- forces that threaten to destroy her entire world, and will surely force Celaena to make a choice. 

Where do the assassin’s loyalties lie, and who is she most willing to fight for?

AMAZON / GOODREADS

Review:
"Ms. Maas you had me scared there. Never mind, now you have me terrified." That was my reaction throughout the novel and just when I thought she was giving me a break, we were on another hell of a ride. Needless to say, I thought Crown of Midnight was fabulous. 

The book starts out with a bang. It's now only a few months after the events of the previous novel and Celaena is going out on missions as the King's official Champion. Everything is dark and mysterious; dangers lie at every twist and turn. It's next to impossible to peel your eyes off the pages in fear that something will happen and you'll miss it

The characters in Crown of Midnight really impressed me. We got to know and fall in love with and hate many of the characters in Throne of Glass, but in Crown of Midnight we start seeing the grey streaks in all their personalities. A lot of that is due to the multiple narratives in Crown of Midnight. Through it we got to see more of Chaol. *Swoons* Chivalry anyone? Chaol is the definition of the right and honourable man. In this book, we get to see more of him and his growing relationship with Celaena. It's really nice to see the fun young man behind the Captain of the Guard's uniform. And as the plot progresses we get to see more of him and the extent of his honour and loyalty; he is really lovable. 

I also liked Celaena. Going into Throne of Glass I was expecting a strong and kickass female assassin deserving of the title, Adarlan's Assassin. What I found was a strong and courageous girl but I felt like she pranced around in pretty dresses more than I would've liked for a deadly assassin. The dresses are still around in Crown of Midnight but we also get to see more of her as an assassin. We get to see more of her past and started to see more about how Celaena earned her reputation as Adarlan's Assassin. After finishing the book, Celaena has officially joined my list of kickass protagonists. 

One of the greatest components of fantasy books are the incredible worlds built by the authors. Ms. Maas has done a phenomenal job with this one. If I had any artistic ability whatsoever, I would draw Adarlan and hang it on my wall. Everything from the castle to the crypts underneath and the city, was so enchanting. I was always looking forward to the next time Celaena ventured into the city or even outside her room. 

Evidently, world building was a big part of Crown of Midnight, the places introduced in the first book were explored in this one to a fulfilling degree. I can't wait to see what else is brought to the table in the next four installments.

Overall, if you haven't noticed yet, I recommend this book and series. It's fun, exciting, and suspenseful. You can count on it to keep you on the edge of your seat. My only problem was that the suspense was sometimes dragged to an unnecessary amount. There were half truths told only to end up telling all of it once everything blew up in their face. However, as an action adventure junkie, Crown of Midnight kept me happy and interested so I don't have much to complain about. I loved it from start to finish. 

-MARI