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A Court of Thorns and Roses #2
A Court of Mist and Fury
Goodreads Choice Award
Winner for Readers' Favorite Young Adult Fantasy & Science Fiction (2016)The seductive and stunning #1 New York Times bestselling sequel to Sarah J. Maas's spellbinding A Court of Thorns and Roses .
Feyre has undergone more trials than one human woman can carry in her heart. Though she's now been granted the powers and lifespan of the High Fae, she is haunted by her time Under the Mountain and the terrible deeds she performed to save the lives of Tamlin and his people.
As her marriage to Tamlin approaches, Feyre's hollowness and nightmares consume her. She finds herself split into two different one who upholds her bargain with Rhysand, High Lord of the feared Night Court, and one who lives out her life in the Spring Court with Tamlin. While Feyre navigates a dark web of politics, passion, and dazzling power, a greater evil looms. She might just be the key to stopping it, but only if she can harness her harrowing gifts, heal her fractured soul, and decide how she wishes to shape her future-and the future of a world in turmoil.
Bestselling author Sarah J. Maas's masterful storytelling brings this second book in her dazzling, sexy, action-packed series to new heights.
Feyre has undergone more trials than one human woman can carry in her heart. Though she's now been granted the powers and lifespan of the High Fae, she is haunted by her time Under the Mountain and the terrible deeds she performed to save the lives of Tamlin and his people.
As her marriage to Tamlin approaches, Feyre's hollowness and nightmares consume her. She finds herself split into two different one who upholds her bargain with Rhysand, High Lord of the feared Night Court, and one who lives out her life in the Spring Court with Tamlin. While Feyre navigates a dark web of politics, passion, and dazzling power, a greater evil looms. She might just be the key to stopping it, but only if she can harness her harrowing gifts, heal her fractured soul, and decide how she wishes to shape her future-and the future of a world in turmoil.
Bestselling author Sarah J. Maas's masterful storytelling brings this second book in her dazzling, sexy, action-packed series to new heights.
626 pages, Paperback
First published May 3, 2016
About the author
Sarah J. Maas
116 books475k followersSarah J. Maas is the #1 bestselling author of the Throne of Glass, Court of Thorns and Roses, and Crescent City series. Her books have sold millions of copies and are published in thirty-eight languages. She lives in New York City with her family.
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May 8, 2016
Rating: All the stars in the universe
"I needed not to be dead when I agreed.”
“You needed not to be alone.”
I don't really know what to say in order to adequately express how stunning A Court of Mist and Fury is. How exquisitely beautiful. How slow-burningly sorrowful. How... joyous at the same time. I'm at a lack of words for describing how it truly made me feel -- because this book resonates with my soul and my heart and my mind so wonderfully, it just filled me with awe from within, leaving me drowning in an eternal swirl of emotions, a ruin because of a mere novel.
“But then she snapped your neck.”
Tears rolled down his face.
“And I felt you die,” he whispered.
Tears were sliding down my own cheeks.
This book is a story about life and love and every gray shade in between. A story about the bleak days and the lovely winds of change. A story about hard-fought happiness and soul-wrenching sacrifices. And a story about a girl who finds herself drifting away into the fields of nothingness only to discover the stars and moon and night sky pointing towards her glorious rebirth.
Feyre, oh dear Feyre. I am so so proud of her and who she's become at the end of the novel. She's so exhilarating and vibrant and incredibly strong. But she was not like this in the beginning. The events in the previous book shredded her apart from the inside out, living only a shell of the brave young woman we cheered for. My heart ached for her. But she finds herself again -- her true self, her wild heart, her luminous spark of daring, fierce, brilliant dreams. And the heroine that emerges is coated with sheer determination, powerful bravery and astounding compassion.
I was not a pet, not a doll, not an animal.
I was a survivor, and I was strong.
I would not be weak, or helpless again.
I would not, could not be broken. Tamed.
I want to assure everyone that not one character, NO ONE , acts OOC. And besides Feyre, no one changes. You know what I'm talking about -- the alpha-males vulturing around Feyre. ACoTaR only showed us bits and pieces, but we mustn't jump to the wrong conclusions about certain people especially since the depth of ACoTaR felt (at least to me) similar to a Vegas wedding after meeting a guy in the hotel lobby, whereas ACoMaF was a reality check. Harsh and cruel and unyielding.
This being said, I liked Tamlin. He was true to himself. Everything he does, he does out of love and of fear of losing Feyre. And we all know that people blinded by love can often make mistakes -- and Tam did. Many mistakes. A lack of understanding intoxicated him and an imperative need for control severed his perception. Paradoxically, we get to know him better even if he's not a present figure throughout the book. And perhaps, now that we've seen more of his layers and facades... perhaps we see him in a much different light. He has issues and I truly believe Amarantha messed him up mentally -- nowhere near the trauma Feyre endured, but still a haunting scar imprinted on his demeanor. Regardless, do not mistake all I've said as excuses in his defense, because they are not. They do not excuse his ultimate authority, his condescending attitude and his infuriatingly rash decisions for which he does need to suffer the consequences. .
“He did—does love me, Rhysand.”
“The issue isn’t whether he loved you, it’s how much. Too much. Love can be a poison.”
Rhysand, on the other hand, was the epitome of damn. I might even have a confession to make... He might... *gulp*... have overthrown Will Herondale and Dorian Havilliard as my favorite book boyfriend!!
Rhys embodies the highest standards for fictional males. His bad-boy allure. His arrogance. His cunning mind. His elegance. His astounding power. But these are nothing compared to his internal beauty -- his selflessness, his nerve-wrecking intensity, his carefully crafted mask, his turmoil and his kindness. His self-doubt brought me to my knees, because he is such a precious cinnamon roll and he doesn't realize it. And holy shit his past was just too much -- I WAS (AM) AN EMOTIONAL MESS.
“You think I don’t know how stories get written—how this story will be written?” Rhys put his hands on his chest, his face more open, more anguished than I’d seen it. “I am the dark lord, who stole away the bride of spring. I am a demon, and a nightmare, and I will meet a bad end. He is the golden prince—the hero who will get to keep you as his reward for not dying of stupidity and arrogance.”
And you wanna know what? HE'S A GODDAMN FEMINIST. If that doesn't make you fall in love with him head over heels, I don't know what will. Plus Rhys is basically the hottest fictional guy ever created (Darkling + Warner + Dorian = omg). WHY ISN'T HE REAL??? *sobs*
“Tamlin won’t allow it.”
“Tamlin isn’t your keeper, and you know it.”
“I’m his subject, and he is my High Lord—”
“You are no one’s subject.”
***
“Maybe it’d be a mercy to be ended—
A broad hand gripped my face—gently enough not to hurt, but hard enough to make me look at him. “Don’t you ever think that,” Rhysand hissed, his eyes livid. “Not for one damned moment.”
***
"She wins,” Rhys breathed. “That bitch wins if you let yourself fall apart."
Lucien remains clever and intuitive and even though his relationship with our heroine gets stranded, his only flaw is undying, blind loyalty and I cannot fault him for that.
Moving now onto more serious topics -- the new characters. We have quite a lot, but by far the loveliest ones are Rhysand's Inner Circle. They're squad goals. Fierce Morrigan; strange and kickass Amren; sassy, arrogant and skilled Cassian; reserved and observant Azriel. All these, plus Rhys, entangle a dynamic that creates a family. I loved them to bits. Secondary characters, yet so wonderfully nuanced, three-dimensional characters that gut you with their own stories and make you shed a tear at how much they love each other. Plus, they cracked me up on a constant basis. And the respect and unflinching support they have between them was all kinds of wow and awwww.
Okay. Enough with the stalling. Let's venture into dangerous territory aka the romance. *deep breath* I want to start by saying there is no love triangle -- there's only a wonderful, all-consuming and healthy relationship that evolves naturally until it reaches paramount heights. I was constantly plastered with a stupid, goofy grin on my face whenever this couple interacted or was simply in the same scene. What makes them absolutely beautiful in my perspective is the mutual respect, honesty and support they have for each other -- it paints them with an empowering and downright heartwarming glow. Their amazing friendship, their sparking chemistry, their hilarious banter and their hot as hell tension had me repeatedly blessing the gods for Maas.
“He locked you up because he knew—the bastard knew what a treasure you are. That you are worth more than land or gold or jewels. He knew, and wanted to keep you all to himself.”
***
“I’m thinking,” he said, following the flick of my tongue over my bottom lip, “that I look at you and feel like I’m dying. Like I can’t breathe.”
Besides those strong traits of their relationship, I need to mention the steaminess and sexiness and overall HOTNESS. Because this book? It's hot. Like black-in-the-middle-of-July-in-California-hot. NA, after all. You thought ACoTaR was hot? YOU THOUGHT WRONG -- prepare yourself for hyperventilating, fangirling and swooning, 'cause SJM's writing skills slay in those scenes.
“I heard every word between you. I knew you could take care of yourself, and yet … ” He went back to his pie, swallowing a bite before continuing. “And yet I found myself deciding that if you took his hand, I would find a way to live with it. It would be your choice.”
I sipped from my wine. “And if he had grabbed me?”
There was nothing but uncompromising will in his eyes. “Then I would have torn apart the world to get you back.”
Oh oh oh but there are some other ships that get my blood pumping even though they're not sailing -- YET THEY SHOULD. They totally should. Mozriel and Nessian embody pure awesomeness.
What I enjoyed tremendously about this particular sequel is how it managed to expand the realm beyond its initial borders, in terms of world-building, depth and history. ACoTaR now seems like a small piece of a giant puzzle, the lovely but common retelling of Beauty and the Beast paling in comparison to ACoMaF which, while just teasing us with glimpses of the real deal that's to come, contained a sense of radiant and vast epicness.
The most special and bewildering aspect is the lush and vivid portrayal of the Night Court. Enthralling and contradictory, it completely enraptures you with its seductive tone. So different from the Spring Court (and Summer Court which we get to visit!!). But I expected something disheartening and equally dark, and while this mysterious court has that vibe and then some, there is also such glorious light and normalcy and elegance that reside in its spectrum. The Court of Nightmares gave me goosebumps. The Court of Dreams, however, gave me breath and life. The book centers in Velaris and ohmygod this city ! I loved Velaris with all my being and if there ever was a fictional place or universe in which I'd want to live, then Velaris and the Night Court are it.
Plotwise, there isn't really much to say, honestly, besides the fact that the king of Hybern is the new big bad wolf (as expected) and he wants to bring chaos into this world. But his presence is subtle, his threat only looming on the horizon -- the finale will deal with him more. Yet we encounter intrigue and secrets and eye-opening side stories and tales that create the legacy of Prythan hand in hand with the world-building. It felt similar to Heir of Fire, a journey of healing rather than grueling war. However, as in HoF, the last few chapters left me breathless and white-knuckled as I gripped the book to read every single word. Betrayals, alliances, resurrections, magic and evil marvelously unraveled in an explosive punch, a mic drop of a sort. It leaves you craving more the very next instant.
We'll see more Nesta and Elain and Tam and Lucien in the next book, that's for sure. But the stakes are so high and the game of hide and seek between friends and enemies so dangerous that I cannot help but be in a continual frenzy until the sequel. It's going to be as much of a masterpiece as this one, certainly.
A Court of Mist and Fury made me want to re-read it the second I've finished it -- and re-read again afterwards. It made me want to live in its universe. It made me want to be friends with the characters, tell them how much I adore them and just how precious they all are. It made me feel alive in so many ways that it also rendered me speechless.
But you know where its absolute beauty resides? It's in the cleverness with which it was constructed. Sarah J. Maas outdid herself -- with the loose threads, with the vibe of Hades & Persephone and with the countless clues and hints that begged for a re-read of ACoTaR in order to pick them up bit by bit. No one can say she changed her creation to her whim, because it was all carefully planned out, mapped out ever since the first page of the first installment.
“You are my salvation, Feyre.”
A Court of Mist and Fury is my new favorite book and I'll keep it close to my heart from now on. Enchanting, clever and masterfully written, it shattered my expectations and raised itself on a gold pedestal. I love it completely and I hope you'll do so too -- as fiercely as Feyre loves the night.
On a chirpier note though, I'll go drown myself into a hell of a long book-slump because nothing, absolutely nothing can come close to this glorious book while its remnants shine so brightly in my mind .
ENJOY! <3
P.S.: My headcanon fanart for ACoMaF:
My Night Court photoset is a bit spoilery, so here's the Tumblr link.
My ACoMaF inspired playlist -- The Stars Who Listen
Listen here: 8tracks; YouTube.
"I needed not to be dead when I agreed.”
“You needed not to be alone.”
I don't really know what to say in order to adequately express how stunning A Court of Mist and Fury is. How exquisitely beautiful. How slow-burningly sorrowful. How... joyous at the same time. I'm at a lack of words for describing how it truly made me feel -- because this book resonates with my soul and my heart and my mind so wonderfully, it just filled me with awe from within, leaving me drowning in an eternal swirl of emotions, a ruin because of a mere novel.
“But then she snapped your neck.”
Tears rolled down his face.
“And I felt you die,” he whispered.
Tears were sliding down my own cheeks.
This book is a story about life and love and every gray shade in between. A story about the bleak days and the lovely winds of change. A story about hard-fought happiness and soul-wrenching sacrifices. And a story about a girl who finds herself drifting away into the fields of nothingness only to discover the stars and moon and night sky pointing towards her glorious rebirth.
Feyre, oh dear Feyre. I am so so proud of her and who she's become at the end of the novel. She's so exhilarating and vibrant and incredibly strong. But she was not like this in the beginning. The events in the previous book shredded her apart from the inside out, living only a shell of the brave young woman we cheered for. My heart ached for her. But she finds herself again -- her true self, her wild heart, her luminous spark of daring, fierce, brilliant dreams. And the heroine that emerges is coated with sheer determination, powerful bravery and astounding compassion.
I was not a pet, not a doll, not an animal.
I was a survivor, and I was strong.
I would not be weak, or helpless again.
I would not, could not be broken. Tamed.
I want to assure everyone that not one character, NO ONE , acts OOC. And besides Feyre, no one changes. You know what I'm talking about -- the alpha-males vulturing around Feyre. ACoTaR only showed us bits and pieces, but we mustn't jump to the wrong conclusions about certain people especially since the depth of ACoTaR felt (at least to me) similar to a Vegas wedding after meeting a guy in the hotel lobby, whereas ACoMaF was a reality check. Harsh and cruel and unyielding.
This being said, I liked Tamlin. He was true to himself. Everything he does, he does out of love and of fear of losing Feyre. And we all know that people blinded by love can often make mistakes -- and Tam did. Many mistakes. A lack of understanding intoxicated him and an imperative need for control severed his perception. Paradoxically, we get to know him better even if he's not a present figure throughout the book. And perhaps, now that we've seen more of his layers and facades... perhaps we see him in a much different light. He has issues and I truly believe Amarantha messed him up mentally -- nowhere near the trauma Feyre endured, but still a haunting scar imprinted on his demeanor. Regardless, do not mistake all I've said as excuses in his defense, because they are not. They do not excuse his ultimate authority, his condescending attitude and his infuriatingly rash decisions for which he does need to suffer the consequences. .
“He did—does love me, Rhysand.”
“The issue isn’t whether he loved you, it’s how much. Too much. Love can be a poison.”
Rhysand, on the other hand, was the epitome of damn. I might even have a confession to make... He might... *gulp*... have overthrown Will Herondale and Dorian Havilliard as my favorite book boyfriend!!
Rhys embodies the highest standards for fictional males. His bad-boy allure. His arrogance. His cunning mind. His elegance. His astounding power. But these are nothing compared to his internal beauty -- his selflessness, his nerve-wrecking intensity, his carefully crafted mask, his turmoil and his kindness. His self-doubt brought me to my knees, because he is such a precious cinnamon roll and he doesn't realize it. And holy shit his past was just too much -- I WAS (AM) AN EMOTIONAL MESS.
“You think I don’t know how stories get written—how this story will be written?” Rhys put his hands on his chest, his face more open, more anguished than I’d seen it. “I am the dark lord, who stole away the bride of spring. I am a demon, and a nightmare, and I will meet a bad end. He is the golden prince—the hero who will get to keep you as his reward for not dying of stupidity and arrogance.”
And you wanna know what? HE'S A GODDAMN FEMINIST. If that doesn't make you fall in love with him head over heels, I don't know what will. Plus Rhys is basically the hottest fictional guy ever created (Darkling + Warner + Dorian = omg). WHY ISN'T HE REAL??? *sobs*
“Tamlin won’t allow it.”
“Tamlin isn’t your keeper, and you know it.”
“I’m his subject, and he is my High Lord—”
“You are no one’s subject.”
***
“Maybe it’d be a mercy to be ended—
A broad hand gripped my face—gently enough not to hurt, but hard enough to make me look at him. “Don’t you ever think that,” Rhysand hissed, his eyes livid. “Not for one damned moment.”
***
"She wins,” Rhys breathed. “That bitch wins if you let yourself fall apart."
Lucien remains clever and intuitive and even though his relationship with our heroine gets stranded, his only flaw is undying, blind loyalty and I cannot fault him for that.
Moving now onto more serious topics -- the new characters. We have quite a lot, but by far the loveliest ones are Rhysand's Inner Circle. They're squad goals. Fierce Morrigan; strange and kickass Amren; sassy, arrogant and skilled Cassian; reserved and observant Azriel. All these, plus Rhys, entangle a dynamic that creates a family. I loved them to bits. Secondary characters, yet so wonderfully nuanced, three-dimensional characters that gut you with their own stories and make you shed a tear at how much they love each other. Plus, they cracked me up on a constant basis. And the respect and unflinching support they have between them was all kinds of wow and awwww.
Okay. Enough with the stalling. Let's venture into dangerous territory aka the romance. *deep breath* I want to start by saying there is no love triangle -- there's only a wonderful, all-consuming and healthy relationship that evolves naturally until it reaches paramount heights. I was constantly plastered with a stupid, goofy grin on my face whenever this couple interacted or was simply in the same scene. What makes them absolutely beautiful in my perspective is the mutual respect, honesty and support they have for each other -- it paints them with an empowering and downright heartwarming glow. Their amazing friendship, their sparking chemistry, their hilarious banter and their hot as hell tension had me repeatedly blessing the gods for Maas.
“He locked you up because he knew—the bastard knew what a treasure you are. That you are worth more than land or gold or jewels. He knew, and wanted to keep you all to himself.”
***
“I’m thinking,” he said, following the flick of my tongue over my bottom lip, “that I look at you and feel like I’m dying. Like I can’t breathe.”
Besides those strong traits of their relationship, I need to mention the steaminess and sexiness and overall HOTNESS. Because this book? It's hot. Like black-in-the-middle-of-July-in-California-hot. NA, after all. You thought ACoTaR was hot? YOU THOUGHT WRONG -- prepare yourself for hyperventilating, fangirling and swooning, 'cause SJM's writing skills slay in those scenes.
“I heard every word between you. I knew you could take care of yourself, and yet … ” He went back to his pie, swallowing a bite before continuing. “And yet I found myself deciding that if you took his hand, I would find a way to live with it. It would be your choice.”
I sipped from my wine. “And if he had grabbed me?”
There was nothing but uncompromising will in his eyes. “Then I would have torn apart the world to get you back.”
Oh oh oh but there are some other ships that get my blood pumping even though they're not sailing -- YET THEY SHOULD. They totally should. Mozriel and Nessian embody pure awesomeness.
What I enjoyed tremendously about this particular sequel is how it managed to expand the realm beyond its initial borders, in terms of world-building, depth and history. ACoTaR now seems like a small piece of a giant puzzle, the lovely but common retelling of Beauty and the Beast paling in comparison to ACoMaF which, while just teasing us with glimpses of the real deal that's to come, contained a sense of radiant and vast epicness.
The most special and bewildering aspect is the lush and vivid portrayal of the Night Court. Enthralling and contradictory, it completely enraptures you with its seductive tone. So different from the Spring Court (and Summer Court which we get to visit!!). But I expected something disheartening and equally dark, and while this mysterious court has that vibe and then some, there is also such glorious light and normalcy and elegance that reside in its spectrum. The Court of Nightmares gave me goosebumps. The Court of Dreams, however, gave me breath and life. The book centers in Velaris and ohmygod this city ! I loved Velaris with all my being and if there ever was a fictional place or universe in which I'd want to live, then Velaris and the Night Court are it.
Plotwise, there isn't really much to say, honestly, besides the fact that the king of Hybern is the new big bad wolf (as expected) and he wants to bring chaos into this world. But his presence is subtle, his threat only looming on the horizon -- the finale will deal with him more. Yet we encounter intrigue and secrets and eye-opening side stories and tales that create the legacy of Prythan hand in hand with the world-building. It felt similar to Heir of Fire, a journey of healing rather than grueling war. However, as in HoF, the last few chapters left me breathless and white-knuckled as I gripped the book to read every single word. Betrayals, alliances, resurrections, magic and evil marvelously unraveled in an explosive punch, a mic drop of a sort. It leaves you craving more the very next instant.
We'll see more Nesta and Elain and Tam and Lucien in the next book, that's for sure. But the stakes are so high and the game of hide and seek between friends and enemies so dangerous that I cannot help but be in a continual frenzy until the sequel. It's going to be as much of a masterpiece as this one, certainly.
A Court of Mist and Fury made me want to re-read it the second I've finished it -- and re-read again afterwards. It made me want to live in its universe. It made me want to be friends with the characters, tell them how much I adore them and just how precious they all are. It made me feel alive in so many ways that it also rendered me speechless.
But you know where its absolute beauty resides? It's in the cleverness with which it was constructed. Sarah J. Maas outdid herself -- with the loose threads, with the vibe of Hades & Persephone and with the countless clues and hints that begged for a re-read of ACoTaR in order to pick them up bit by bit. No one can say she changed her creation to her whim, because it was all carefully planned out, mapped out ever since the first page of the first installment.
“You are my salvation, Feyre.”
A Court of Mist and Fury is my new favorite book and I'll keep it close to my heart from now on. Enchanting, clever and masterfully written, it shattered my expectations and raised itself on a gold pedestal. I love it completely and I hope you'll do so too -- as fiercely as Feyre loves the night.
On a chirpier note though, I'll go drown myself into a hell of a long book-slump because nothing, absolutely nothing can come close to this glorious book while its remnants shine so brightly in my mind .
ENJOY! <3
P.S.: My headcanon fanart for ACoMaF:
My Night Court photoset is a bit spoilery, so here's the Tumblr link.
My ACoMaF inspired playlist -- The Stars Who Listen
Listen here: 8tracks; YouTube.
September 8, 2016
HOLY FUCKING SHIT. HOLY. FUCKING. SHIT.
A COURT OF MIST AND FURY IS THE BEST BOOK I HAVE EVER READ IN MY WHOLE ENTIRE LIFE.
***CONTAINS A SHIT TON OF SPOILERS***
REALLY, IF YOU HAVE NOT FINISHED THE BOOK YET, DO NOT READ THIS REVIEW.
THIS BOOK IS WAAAAAAAY MORE THAN 5 STARS, IT'S MORE LIKE 1000000000000000/5 STARS. I KNEW IT WAS GOING TO BE PERFECT BUT I DIDN'T KNOW IT WAS GONNA BE THIS PERFECT.
To be completely honest with you guys, I have absolutely no idea where to start, so I'm warning you, this is gonna be far from an actual review.
May 3rd was the day I died.
I ran to my mailbox, knowing what awaited me there. I opened it and saw the box, amazon prime tape all over it. I took it and ran back inside my house. I stared at the box and took a deep breath...
THEN RIPPED THAT SHIT UP. I CLAWED AT IT, SHREDDING THE WHOLE FUCKING BOX IN THE PROCESS. I SAW THAT BLUE FUCKING COVER AND KNEW THAT MY LIFE WAS NEVER GONNA BE THE SAME. I TOOK THAT FUCKING BOOK AND TURNED THAT SHIT OVER. THE COVER WAS FUCKING BEAUTIFUL. SCREAMING LIKE I WAS BEING TORTURED IN THE DEEP PITS OF HELL, I RAN AND SAT MY ASS DOWN ON THE COUCH. I OPENED THAT SHIT UP AND READ TIL MY EYES BLED. DAMN STRAIGHT.
So all I read in the first 40 pages or so was blah blah blah Tamlin blah blah blah Where's Rhys.
And then the moment we've been waiting for happened. The moment where RHYSAND INTERRUPTS FEYRE'S WEDDING TO BRING HER TO THE NIGHT COURT. FUCK YEAH.
The Night Court is the most beautiful thing ever. Could it be any better? No. It was perfection. And when Rhys winnows with her there, Feyre's first instinct is to throw a shoe at him. THE ALL-POWERFUL, MOST FEARED HIGH LORD OF THE NIGHT COURT GOT HIT BY A SHOE. It was adorable.
And Rhys helped teach Feyre how to read and it was the best thing ever. All the while training her on her new found powers. These powers came from the seven High Lords and Feyre has all of them. EVEN RHYS'S
Feyre became a very strong character in this book, Sarah knows how to work in that character development! She knew how to fight for herself and always wanted to be there to help in times of need. And the reason for leaving the Spring Court forever was because stupid Tamlin didn't let her go anywhere and practically made the estate Feyre's new prison cell. How symbolic. Remember that time Under the Mountain, Tamlin? When your "beloved" was trapped in that same cell for three whole months? How you didn't do anything about it and watched her rot? How on her last day Under the Mountain, you wanted to have sex with her instead of trying to free her? Ever think of those things Tamlin? Doesn't seem like it because now you've recreated that same cell that's caused her so much trauma. Isn't he the greatest.
When Feyre made the decision to stay at the Night Court with Rhys and the squad (who I adore so much by the way), I was so happy. Not just because that meant Rhys and Feyre time (whoo!), but because it showed how strong she's become and that she finally escaped the captivity of the Spring Court into the freedom of the Night Court. And she is a total bad ass.
The Night Court squad is so awesome. We've got Mor, Amren, Cassian, and Azriel who I love all equally. They all have character depth, flaws, and pasts that we learn about. Mor's past was devastating and made me want to just give her the biggest hug. I also enjoyed amren a lot because she looks like she could kill you and will actually kill you. And Azriel and Cassian are also really fun to read about as well. They are all cinnamon rolls.
Let me just say, I love it when the girl saves the guy. In this case, it was Feyre saving Rhysand. They were flying and Rhys was hit in the back with ash arrows and was captured and whipped. Now Feyre, she was MAD. She winnowed and killed the guys torturing Rhys like the total boss she is and saved Rhys from death. I was seriously so scared for my baby.
NOW IS THE TIME TO BRING IT UP GUYS. THE MOMENT WE'VE ALL BEEN WAITING FOR. WE WANTED IT TO HAPPEN FOR SO LONG. AND NOW IT'S OUT IN THE OPEN. READY THE CANON.
RHYSAND AND FEYRE ARE MATES.
RHYSAND. AND. FEYRE. ARE. MATES.
THE FANDOM RIGHT NOW.
AND RHYS HAD DREAMS ABOUT FEYRE BEFORE HE EVEN MET HER. WHEN HE FIRST MET FEYRE HE HAD A SENSE THAT THEY WERE MATES. HE KNEW THE WHOLE TIME, AND IT BROUGHT MORE TEARS TO MY POOR EYES. IT ACTUALLY MAKES ME WANT TO REREAD A COURT OF THORNS AND ROSES JUST TO HAVE A DIFFERENT VIEW ON IT. AND RHYSAND REALIZED HE LOVED FEYRE WHEN HE HELD THE DAGGER TO AMARANTHRA'S NECK.
RHYSAND AND FEYRE ARE MATES AND EVERYTHING IS RIGHT IN THE WORLD.
AND WHEN RHYS TOLD FEYRE EVERYTHING, (AND I MEAN EVERYTHING)...(LIKE REALLY EVERYTHING), I CRIED. IT WAS SOOOO.... I'M SORRY I CAN'T EVEN PUT IT INTO WORDS, BUT YOU PROBABLY FELT THE SAME THING. YOU KNOW.
AND THE NIGHT OF STARFALL. OMG MY BABIES. THEY WERE AT THE BALCONY AND THEY WERE SHARING PERSONAL THINGS (I LIVE FOR THESE MOMENTS). AND THE ABSOLUTE MOST ADORABLE THING THAT HAPPENED WAS WHEN THEY BOTH WERE HIT IN THE FACE BY THE STARLIGHT AND LAUGHED. LAUGHED. AND SMILED SO MUCH. FEYRE HADN'T SMILED LIKE THAT IN FOREVER. AND OH DEAR LORD SAVE ME, I'M PICTURING THE GRIN RHYSAND GAVE FEYRE RIGHT NOW AND IT MAKES ME MEEEELLLLTTTT. I JUST SIMPLY CANNOT.
Now, let's talk about the hottest scenes ever between my dear Rhys and Feyre. THEY WERE SO STEAMY AND I WAS FREAKING OUT THE WHOLE TIME. I DIDN'T KNOW IF THIS WAS REAL LIFE OR NOT. AND THEY LASTED PAAAAAGGGGEESSS. A GLORIOUS AMOUNT OF PAGES. THESE WERE THE FELLOW STEAMY SCENES:
COURT OF NIGHTMARES.
THE CRAMPED BEDROOM.
MATE REALIZATION. (THE BEST ONE)
And Rhys is not who we expected him to be. He's sacrificed so much for his people like I can't even explain because HE SACRIFICED SO DAMN MUCH. And I seriously cried when he revealed all these things about himself. MAIN CAUSE OF MY EMOTIONAL TRAUMA RIGHT THERE.
I could go on and on forever about the many many many precious Rhys and Feyre moments, but let's talk about that ending.
Things were so perfect so far that I was getting scared. Scared that all that perfectness was going to be ripped away and I was going to be one emotional mess. And for a minute there, I was. You guys know what I'm talking about.
So Feyre and Rhysand acted like Feyre was under Rhysand's control the whole time so it made it seem like Feyre actually still loved Tamlin and that she wanted to go back with him. And then she wanted to make it seem more real. And I'm like "FEYRE IF YOU FUCKING TELL THE KING TO BREAK YOUR MATE BOND I SWEAR-" And then she tells the king to break the mate bond. And Rhysand's screams just shattered my heart when he was about to. And shithead Tamlin's says "Do it.".
AND THE FUCKING KING OF HYBERN BROKE RHYS AND FEYRE'S MATE BOND.
I THOUGHT IT WAS OVER THEN AND THERE. I COMPLETELY LOST MY SHIT.
BUT WAIT. IT'S NOT OVER.
RHYSAND AND FEYRE WERE ALSO ACTING THAT OUT TOO. THE MATE BOND WASN'T BROKEN. I REPEAT, THE MATE BOND WAS NOT BROKEN. THE KING JUST BROKE THE BARGAIN WITHOUT REALIZING IT WASN'T THE MATE BOND. THAT LOVE CANNOT BE BROKEN, ESPECIALLY RHYSAND AND FEYRE'S. AND SO NOW THIS SETS UP THE BEGINNING OF THE THIRD BOOK. FEYRE IS GOING TO SPY ON THE SPRING COURT AND SEND THE INFORMATION DOWN THE MATE BOND TO RHYS. YEAH FEYRE YOU GO GIRL.
Oh yeah, I forgot to mention that Nesta and Elain were turned into High Fae. And Lucien is mated with Elain. Crazy, am I right?!
AND FEYRE IS NOW HIGH LADY OF THE NIGHT COURT.
I AM COMPLETELY SPEECHLESS AND AM STILL IN UTTER SHOCK AT HOW BEYOND AMAZINGLY PERFECT A COURT OF MIST AND FURY WAS. I CAN'T EVEN PUT IT INTO WORDS. EVEN A GIF. I JUST-- WOW. YOU GUYS KNOW EXACTLY WHAT I'M FEELING RIGHT NOW. RHYSAND AND FEYRE ARE EVERYTHING I EVER WANTED.
THE THIRD BOOK SHOULD BE CALLED "A COURT OF PAIN AND EMOTIONAL TRAUMA" BECAUSE THAT'S HOW IT'S PROBABLY GONNA GO. HERE COMES THE YEAR LONG WAIT. I DON'T THINK I'LL SURVIVE WITHOUT IT LONG ENOUGH. I WANT IT SOOOOO BADLY!!!!!
AND I'M MEETING FUCKING SARAH J. MASS ON THE 14TH AT THE CHICAGO BOOK CON TO GET MY COPY OF ACOMAF SIGNED AND MEET HER IN THE PROCESS! I'LL MOST LIKELY BE RENDERED SPEECHLESS JUST LIKE AFTER I FINISHED ACOMAF. I AM SERIOUSLY SO EXCITED.
I WILL SAY IT AGAIN: A COURT OF MIST AND FURY IS THE ABSOLUTE BEST BOOK I HAVE EVER READ IN MY WHOLE ENTIRE LIFE.
"To the stars who listen-- and the dreams that are answered.
A COURT OF MIST AND FURY IS THE BEST BOOK I HAVE EVER READ IN MY WHOLE ENTIRE LIFE.
***CONTAINS A SHIT TON OF SPOILERS***
REALLY, IF YOU HAVE NOT FINISHED THE BOOK YET, DO NOT READ THIS REVIEW.
THIS BOOK IS WAAAAAAAY MORE THAN 5 STARS, IT'S MORE LIKE 1000000000000000/5 STARS. I KNEW IT WAS GOING TO BE PERFECT BUT I DIDN'T KNOW IT WAS GONNA BE THIS PERFECT.
To be completely honest with you guys, I have absolutely no idea where to start, so I'm warning you, this is gonna be far from an actual review.
May 3rd was the day I died.
I ran to my mailbox, knowing what awaited me there. I opened it and saw the box, amazon prime tape all over it. I took it and ran back inside my house. I stared at the box and took a deep breath...
THEN RIPPED THAT SHIT UP. I CLAWED AT IT, SHREDDING THE WHOLE FUCKING BOX IN THE PROCESS. I SAW THAT BLUE FUCKING COVER AND KNEW THAT MY LIFE WAS NEVER GONNA BE THE SAME. I TOOK THAT FUCKING BOOK AND TURNED THAT SHIT OVER. THE COVER WAS FUCKING BEAUTIFUL. SCREAMING LIKE I WAS BEING TORTURED IN THE DEEP PITS OF HELL, I RAN AND SAT MY ASS DOWN ON THE COUCH. I OPENED THAT SHIT UP AND READ TIL MY EYES BLED. DAMN STRAIGHT.
So all I read in the first 40 pages or so was blah blah blah Tamlin blah blah blah Where's Rhys.
And then the moment we've been waiting for happened. The moment where RHYSAND INTERRUPTS FEYRE'S WEDDING TO BRING HER TO THE NIGHT COURT. FUCK YEAH.
The Night Court is the most beautiful thing ever. Could it be any better? No. It was perfection. And when Rhys winnows with her there, Feyre's first instinct is to throw a shoe at him. THE ALL-POWERFUL, MOST FEARED HIGH LORD OF THE NIGHT COURT GOT HIT BY A SHOE. It was adorable.
And Rhys helped teach Feyre how to read and it was the best thing ever. All the while training her on her new found powers. These powers came from the seven High Lords and Feyre has all of them. EVEN RHYS'S
Feyre became a very strong character in this book, Sarah knows how to work in that character development! She knew how to fight for herself and always wanted to be there to help in times of need. And the reason for leaving the Spring Court forever was because stupid Tamlin didn't let her go anywhere and practically made the estate Feyre's new prison cell. How symbolic. Remember that time Under the Mountain, Tamlin? When your "beloved" was trapped in that same cell for three whole months? How you didn't do anything about it and watched her rot? How on her last day Under the Mountain, you wanted to have sex with her instead of trying to free her? Ever think of those things Tamlin? Doesn't seem like it because now you've recreated that same cell that's caused her so much trauma. Isn't he the greatest.
When Feyre made the decision to stay at the Night Court with Rhys and the squad (who I adore so much by the way), I was so happy. Not just because that meant Rhys and Feyre time (whoo!), but because it showed how strong she's become and that she finally escaped the captivity of the Spring Court into the freedom of the Night Court. And she is a total bad ass.
The Night Court squad is so awesome. We've got Mor, Amren, Cassian, and Azriel who I love all equally. They all have character depth, flaws, and pasts that we learn about. Mor's past was devastating and made me want to just give her the biggest hug. I also enjoyed amren a lot because she looks like she could kill you and will actually kill you. And Azriel and Cassian are also really fun to read about as well. They are all cinnamon rolls.
Let me just say, I love it when the girl saves the guy. In this case, it was Feyre saving Rhysand. They were flying and Rhys was hit in the back with ash arrows and was captured and whipped. Now Feyre, she was MAD. She winnowed and killed the guys torturing Rhys like the total boss she is and saved Rhys from death. I was seriously so scared for my baby.
NOW IS THE TIME TO BRING IT UP GUYS. THE MOMENT WE'VE ALL BEEN WAITING FOR. WE WANTED IT TO HAPPEN FOR SO LONG. AND NOW IT'S OUT IN THE OPEN. READY THE CANON.
RHYSAND AND FEYRE ARE MATES.
RHYSAND. AND. FEYRE. ARE. MATES.
THE FANDOM RIGHT NOW.
AND RHYS HAD DREAMS ABOUT FEYRE BEFORE HE EVEN MET HER. WHEN HE FIRST MET FEYRE HE HAD A SENSE THAT THEY WERE MATES. HE KNEW THE WHOLE TIME, AND IT BROUGHT MORE TEARS TO MY POOR EYES. IT ACTUALLY MAKES ME WANT TO REREAD A COURT OF THORNS AND ROSES JUST TO HAVE A DIFFERENT VIEW ON IT. AND RHYSAND REALIZED HE LOVED FEYRE WHEN HE HELD THE DAGGER TO AMARANTHRA'S NECK.
RHYSAND AND FEYRE ARE MATES AND EVERYTHING IS RIGHT IN THE WORLD.
AND WHEN RHYS TOLD FEYRE EVERYTHING, (AND I MEAN EVERYTHING)...(LIKE REALLY EVERYTHING), I CRIED. IT WAS SOOOO.... I'M SORRY I CAN'T EVEN PUT IT INTO WORDS, BUT YOU PROBABLY FELT THE SAME THING. YOU KNOW.
AND THE NIGHT OF STARFALL. OMG MY BABIES. THEY WERE AT THE BALCONY AND THEY WERE SHARING PERSONAL THINGS (I LIVE FOR THESE MOMENTS). AND THE ABSOLUTE MOST ADORABLE THING THAT HAPPENED WAS WHEN THEY BOTH WERE HIT IN THE FACE BY THE STARLIGHT AND LAUGHED. LAUGHED. AND SMILED SO MUCH. FEYRE HADN'T SMILED LIKE THAT IN FOREVER. AND OH DEAR LORD SAVE ME, I'M PICTURING THE GRIN RHYSAND GAVE FEYRE RIGHT NOW AND IT MAKES ME MEEEELLLLTTTT. I JUST SIMPLY CANNOT.
Now, let's talk about the hottest scenes ever between my dear Rhys and Feyre. THEY WERE SO STEAMY AND I WAS FREAKING OUT THE WHOLE TIME. I DIDN'T KNOW IF THIS WAS REAL LIFE OR NOT. AND THEY LASTED PAAAAAGGGGEESSS. A GLORIOUS AMOUNT OF PAGES. THESE WERE THE FELLOW STEAMY SCENES:
COURT OF NIGHTMARES.
THE CRAMPED BEDROOM.
MATE REALIZATION. (THE BEST ONE)
And Rhys is not who we expected him to be. He's sacrificed so much for his people like I can't even explain because HE SACRIFICED SO DAMN MUCH. And I seriously cried when he revealed all these things about himself. MAIN CAUSE OF MY EMOTIONAL TRAUMA RIGHT THERE.
I could go on and on forever about the many many many precious Rhys and Feyre moments, but let's talk about that ending.
Things were so perfect so far that I was getting scared. Scared that all that perfectness was going to be ripped away and I was going to be one emotional mess. And for a minute there, I was. You guys know what I'm talking about.
So Feyre and Rhysand acted like Feyre was under Rhysand's control the whole time so it made it seem like Feyre actually still loved Tamlin and that she wanted to go back with him. And then she wanted to make it seem more real. And I'm like "FEYRE IF YOU FUCKING TELL THE KING TO BREAK YOUR MATE BOND I SWEAR-" And then she tells the king to break the mate bond. And Rhysand's screams just shattered my heart when he was about to. And shithead Tamlin's says "Do it.".
AND THE FUCKING KING OF HYBERN BROKE RHYS AND FEYRE'S MATE BOND.
I THOUGHT IT WAS OVER THEN AND THERE. I COMPLETELY LOST MY SHIT.
BUT WAIT. IT'S NOT OVER.
RHYSAND AND FEYRE WERE ALSO ACTING THAT OUT TOO. THE MATE BOND WASN'T BROKEN. I REPEAT, THE MATE BOND WAS NOT BROKEN. THE KING JUST BROKE THE BARGAIN WITHOUT REALIZING IT WASN'T THE MATE BOND. THAT LOVE CANNOT BE BROKEN, ESPECIALLY RHYSAND AND FEYRE'S. AND SO NOW THIS SETS UP THE BEGINNING OF THE THIRD BOOK. FEYRE IS GOING TO SPY ON THE SPRING COURT AND SEND THE INFORMATION DOWN THE MATE BOND TO RHYS. YEAH FEYRE YOU GO GIRL.
Oh yeah, I forgot to mention that Nesta and Elain were turned into High Fae. And Lucien is mated with Elain. Crazy, am I right?!
AND FEYRE IS NOW HIGH LADY OF THE NIGHT COURT.
I AM COMPLETELY SPEECHLESS AND AM STILL IN UTTER SHOCK AT HOW BEYOND AMAZINGLY PERFECT A COURT OF MIST AND FURY WAS. I CAN'T EVEN PUT IT INTO WORDS. EVEN A GIF. I JUST-- WOW. YOU GUYS KNOW EXACTLY WHAT I'M FEELING RIGHT NOW. RHYSAND AND FEYRE ARE EVERYTHING I EVER WANTED.
THE THIRD BOOK SHOULD BE CALLED "A COURT OF PAIN AND EMOTIONAL TRAUMA" BECAUSE THAT'S HOW IT'S PROBABLY GONNA GO. HERE COMES THE YEAR LONG WAIT. I DON'T THINK I'LL SURVIVE WITHOUT IT LONG ENOUGH. I WANT IT SOOOOO BADLY!!!!!
AND I'M MEETING FUCKING SARAH J. MASS ON THE 14TH AT THE CHICAGO BOOK CON TO GET MY COPY OF ACOMAF SIGNED AND MEET HER IN THE PROCESS! I'LL MOST LIKELY BE RENDERED SPEECHLESS JUST LIKE AFTER I FINISHED ACOMAF. I AM SERIOUSLY SO EXCITED.
I WILL SAY IT AGAIN: A COURT OF MIST AND FURY IS THE ABSOLUTE BEST BOOK I HAVE EVER READ IN MY WHOLE ENTIRE LIFE.
"To the stars who listen-- and the dreams that are answered.
July 27, 2023
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I almost tossed this down in disgust five times while reading this book. I knew, going in, that it was going to be a massive act of revisionism with regard to Rhysand, the villain of the first book. And as someone who loves villains and the Persephone myth that could have been something I could have gotten behind under the right circumstances. But I wasn't truly prepared for the narrative gymnastics that this book would perform to try to redeem him without really making him do any legwork. By the end of the book, he's still a sleaze lord, only now he's a sad sleaze lord in leather pants who was actually the heroine's soulmate all along and an all around Nice Guy. Pop a fedora on his head and he'd probably "milady" his way through the Night Court.
Big yikes.
The beginning of the book was great, and very much in keeping with ACoTaR. Feyre has PTSD (understandable) and so does Tamlin (also understandable) and they're trying to heal and find the same love for each other that was the fuel for Feyre to save him under the mountain in the first place. The passion between them in the beginning was great. Feyre's misgivings about ruling also made sense. I could even understand why Tamlin would want to be so overprotective. He felt like he had betrayed her in failing to keep her safe and was overcompensating for it in the worst way by essentially treating her like she was made out of glass.
Enter Rhysand, who makes good on his bargain to take Feyre back to his court for seven days a month. He actually ruins Feyre's wedding, where she is about to get married to Tamlin but having a major case of cold feet and PTSD. He tells her that her wedding dress is ugly and tells her that she should thank him for saving her the effort of breaking things off, because he is *chef's kiss* a prince among men. *eye roll* He takes it upon himself to teach Feyre to read and write and is so shocked that she was allowed to be illiterate for so long... which was kind of weird to me, because I was pretty sure that TAMLIN was actually teaching her how to read in book one?? Maybe I'm wrong, but I seem to remember Tamlin teaching her to read was a major part of his introduction as love interest.
Also, apparently Feyre hates painting now and is totally upset that Tamlin gives her a set of paints as a present. Because how dare he get her something that she used to like but didn't tell him that she doesn't like anymore. How dare he not be a mind-reader like Rhysand who is a prince among men.
Anyway, things between Tamlin and Feyre aren't so great when she gets back. She starts noticing that he's really controlling but they never really sit down and talk about it. She whines about it but never discusses anything with him... and yes, while his behavior isn't great, locking her in the tower is hardly the abusive act that Feyre milked for all it was worth. It was bad, yes, but it's not like Rhysand was free of faults (oh no, we'll be getting to that), and yet his past was wiped so clean it was practically sparkling, while Tamlin's smaller crimes are portrayed as the Greatest Wrongs in the History of Wrongs, and you would think he put her up in some kind of prison camp for all that she goes on about Tamlin locking her up and Rhysand freeing her. IT WAS SO ANNOYING.
The "mate" thing is really just a neat excuse to forgo any groveling while also explaining this seeming switch mid-series between love interests. We learn that Rhysand sexually assaulted Feyre for her own good, to keep her angry so she wouldn't give up hope. WOW, WHAT A GREAT GUY. About 370-pages in, he finally brings up the assault and sort-of-but-not-really-apologizes and Feyre merely shrugs it off, despite the fact that in book one, everything he did was infuriating and traumatizing to her, and she HATED his guts and HATED him for parading her around and objectifying her in front of Rhysand, drugged her, mind raped her, and even made jokes about forcing herself on her, but yeah, Tamlin's the bad guy because he locked her in her room ONE TIME.
It's kind of amazing, really, how eager Feyre was to throw Tamlin in the trash.
Also, like Celaena/Aelin in THRONE OF GLASS, it isn't enough for Feyre to be a bad-ass fighter on her own terms, no. When she comes back with the gifts of the other Lords, she comes back with LITERALLY ALL OF THEIR POWERS, and she is so powerful that people are going to kill her just to keep her powers from manifesting. Because a heroine just isn't worth salt if she isn't the Queen of the Specialverse, I guess. Part of what made Feyre so endearing in book one is because she actually did have to struggle to succeed; here, everything is served to her on a silver platter.
I skipped over most of the Night Court things... they were so boring.
Of course, Tamlin has to become a traitor. Maas basically did to him what she did to Chaol and Dorian in THRONE OF GLASS. They both become terribad people so Rowan can show up and steal the scene with his earth-shattering orgasms. I guess maybe even the author realized that Tamlin didn't look that bad, so making him into a betrayer was necessary for giving Feyre a clean-cut reason to dump his ass without looking petty. Also, apparently he harbors a sexual assaulter in his court, because in this book we learn that YET ANOTHER WOMAN IN THIS BOOK tried to have her way with Rhys without his consent, and Tamlin just keeps her around... because he's the bad guy now.
We're supposed to feel sorry for Rhysand because he was Amarantha's "whore," and yes, I do feel sorry for him... Amarantha was awful... but that doesn't excuse his own abuse. "This is for your own good" is literally one of the go-to phrases of abusers. He was AWFUL in A COURT OF THORNS AND ROSES and he never really grovels for it. He tells Feyre about his abuses while crying, but that's all about HIM. He provides plenty of reasons-- excuses-- about why he did what he did, but this serves more to brush off his actions than genuine contrition. I wouldn't even care if he became her love interest as the villain if he was actually KEPT as a villain, but it's like all that brutality gets a pass because he is, in fact, a nice guy. Also, the casual story about what basically serves as an allegory to genital mutilation in his mother's court was super disturbing and mentioned like once, but holy yikes-- his parents were fucked up, and I felt like that should have been unpacked more.
Lastly... the mental illness rep. Some people apparently think it's great. No. I don't think it is. Love basically cures Feyre's ills. While it's true that being in an unhealthy relationship can exacerbate existing mental illnesses and cause ones you are predisposed to to manifest, being in a good relationship is not a cure. You don't lose your PTSD or whatever because the sex is good and you've found your soul mate. That is a toxic trope in way too many romances, and I can't stand for it. ALSO, what about Tamlin's PTSD? This was also never really discussed. Does only Feyre get to behave irrationally and have freak outs? That's an unrealistic expectation to have, and her contribution to that toxic relationship was never even discussed... because of course, Feyre is perfect.
On second thought, maybe she is perfect for Rhysand. They're both selfish trash people.
One of the crowning moments in this book is Feyre saying NOBODY HAS SUFFERED OR GONE HUNGRY LIKE I HAVE while a few chapters before she was hating on Tamlin for literally tithing his people until they starve. I guess she's the High Lady of Virtue Signalling as well. Fuck the poor people if they don't give her an excuse to hate on Tamlin. I don't believe they're mentioned again.
If you forget how perfect this couple is, Feyre and Rhysand will remind you 2342342 times why the two of them are the Faerie Jesuses Incarnate who died and prostituted themselves for your sins.
This almost reads like bad fanfiction of the first book. I really don't feel like Rhyand and Feyre were destined to be together from the beginning. I felt like maybe Maas initially planned on a love triangle but maybe thought Rhysand was too rough around the edges, and so worked double-time trying to find reasons to excuse all of his behavior and make him supes enamored with the heroine. The greatest death in this series wasn't Junian's or Amarantha's... it was Tamlin's character.
It isn't even like Rhysand is perfect in this book. His flirting is literally saying things to Feyre that most men would get slapped for. He talks to her like one of those sexist asshats in Madmen. He's constantly talking about her appearance in a creepy way, and he laughs when she's upset that he used her as bait for the Attor. Even their bargain, which ended up allowing him to read her mind, was done without consent, and he certainly doesn't ask for consent every time he reads her mind. At one point, he even says that he could rip her mind apart if he wanted. It's almost like this book was written out with the intention of having him still be the villain and Maas changed her mind halfway through.
I really couldn't stand this book. Rhysand and Rowan are literally the same person, and their "development" with the heroine follows the same trajectory. It's not the worst book I've read, and it's not even the worst Maas book I've ever read, but I will never for the life of me understand why this series is so popular, or why some people who eagerly condemn other books for being problematic seem so eager to forgive or ignore the flaws in this one.
Your mileage may vary.
1 to 1.5 stars
May 16, 2017
When I finished this book, the mountains trembled.
*Do I need to remind you to be civil? No, I don’t. Good kids.
Thanks to my wonderful friends Emer, Reyes and Sarah (click to read their reviews) who helped me up this calvary, with whom I shared joys and sorrows, and who made me laugh so much I probably won't need to swing by the gym for the rest of my life.
And a special mention goes to Katerina, Nastassja and Vera (again, click and be delighted by snarkiness), who ranted with me in the comments of more than one update.
Thank you. <3
(I told you reading this book was so much fun.)
---
➤ The book, in brief:
“Stop comparing. Stop comparing me to him.”
Because do you know what it is called when you keep and keep and keep comparing the previous love interest to the current one, and each single one of these sugary, clichéd, obvious and trite comparisons invariably leads to the conclusion that the ex is a prick while the newcomer is a Perfection Milkshake?
No, Maas? I thought so.
Oh well.
I’m going to say this just once: it’s called manipulation.
Now look at me, Maas. Do I look like a reader who enjoys being manipulated to you?
No? Why, I thought so.
To all those who still have to start this series and are intentioned to: don’t read A Court of Thornes and Roses. Spoil yourself a little of what happens there and start with this one. Because -and this is the truly sad thing, as someone else said before me- A Court of Mist and Fury could even be enjoyable if the first book had not happened before.
•I won’t go so far as to say that what we have here is a case of lack of “show” and an excess of “tell”, because the first chapters do show that Tamlin, whether for some PTSD or because he has always been a scumbag, undeniably acts like the worst man on the planet. I am even willing to forgive how caricatural his behaviour appears. But, throughout the book, every occasion is a good occasion to throw in a comment to overturn completely also all the positive parts of him that are showed in the first book.
(In this regard, I should say that in A Court of Thornes and Roses I did not care for Tamlin in any way, so I am not speaking out of frustrated adoration.)
In this scenario, Tamlin is the epitome of all evil, while Rhys, of course, the epitome of all good: Tamlin cares for hierarchy, Rhys cares for family and nothing more (ugh); Tamlin wants her caged, Rhys want her free; as it turns out, , and so on. I am not in any way saying that a man shouldn’t give freedom to his woman (it’s not that he should; he must, uncompromisingly), or that a plot-twist like the one I mentioned isn’t a good turn of events, even in terms of characterization, but everything is just so stereotypical and trite and sickly sweet.
All of this, in the name of a ship. I think Maas should understand that falling out of love is just as normal as falling in. People fall out of love for normal reasons even if their exes don’t suddenly turn into maniacs. I am sick of this device, courtesy of Queen of Shadows, and I don’t need the new love interest to be pushed on me: I am perfectly able to decide for myself.
•I’ve seen some reviews in which these two characters are described as complex and multifaceted on the basis of their role reversal. Allow me to say that, in my opinion, nothing about them, in this book, is complex nor controversial. Maas did nothing more than switch their places and their personalities with them: Tamlin was the good one and turns out to be the villain; Rhysand was the villain (somehow, and indeed the Rhysand of the first book is the one I can honestly call intriguing) and now he is nothing short of a Fae Prince Charming. Simple as that.
Besides, I liked Rhysand in this book, but I deeply missed the more wicked, morally grey part of him that we saw Under the Mountain. He’s hot, sure, but he also comes off as flat and, at times, pathetic.
•It was a dick move , yes. And yet, I can’t wrap my mind around Feyre’s fickleness, considering that two chapter later she says this:
“I'm thinking that I was a lonely, hopeless person, and I might have fallen in love with the first thing -thing? Now he’s a thing?- that showed me a hint of kindness and safety. And I'm thinking maybe he knew that- maybe not actively, but maybe he wanted to be that person for someone. And maybe that worked for who I was before. Maybe it doesn't work for who- what I am now."
She had every right to leave the mansion and let him stew for a while, but if that is the result of months and months of undying love, well. He stopped being worth of her love maybe, but I don’t think she fought for it that hard either, especially if he really was dealing with some PTSD. I think love is also about trying to fight for the other person even when they don’t seem to fight for us, to give them time, to give them chances, even though at one point we have to stop. It just would have been nicer and more enjoyable if Feyre’s affection’s shift hadn’t been so swift, that’s it.
•All the contradictions. Feyre leave her abusive boyfriend, but then falls in the arms of a man who breaks every bone of a guy who called her names. Uh-uh. And if you say “He did that because he called her ‘whore’, and he’d been called whore too, and the trauma”, I say: how do you know Tamlin’s behaviour wasn’t due to his trauma too. Maybe he just needed time. But it’s okay if it’s Rhysand that does that because epitome-of-perfection, remember? His being all possessive is okay. He can say things like “She’s mine” and snarl at people who so much as look at her. And don’t get me started on indecent exposure.
•The new characters are all nice and pretty and invariably haunted by a dark dark past. It’s nice to read about them and to witness their banters, but they don’t stand out as particularly well-written or sophisticated.
•The plot is even weaker than Maas’s usual. And contrary to what I usually do, I’ll sum it up for you: Feyre flees. TheMy Little Ponies gang- ops. I meant the Court of Dreams’ defenders (I know, the ponies were cooler) look for Things. Which do Stuff. Precisely, destroy Taran’s Black Cauldron and defeat The Horned King, minus the fluffy Gurgi.
Well, wrong story, but that's basically what happens. In more than 600 pages.
•People purr. Normal cats, thank God, ordinarily talk like freaking civilized beings.
•The first time . I refuse to comment on this thing, and if it was me who had written such embarrassing idiocy, I would be hiding my head under the sand. Moreover, all the sex scenes are very cheesy, dramatic and over-written.
•Lucien and. I swear on my heart I have never, ever read anything more ridiculous than this scene (oh, no, wait: the mountains). The passage from normal, rational person to mad caveman takes less time than a spark to burn. I almost expected he started hissing “My preciousss”.
•And yet, I enjoyed it, or better, I enjoyed Rhys, Rhys, his long, sappy, teary declaration/explanation (I have a thing for this trope; it could have been a thousand times worse than it actually is, and still I would've loved it. I am such a softie, I know. My fault), the ending, and Rhys. The other things I pretty much despised. I also appreciate the fact that at least the author tried –and at some length, I think, even succeeded a tiny bit- to conceive a scenario in which Rhys’s cuddliness actually makes some sense.
I still prefer him wicked.
➽ To sum it up, what can I say? I read it with with ease because of an extremely fluent, even though not particularly sophisticated, writing style, and, as we all know, idiocies and mushy stuff can also be enjoyable, and truly, this book take the concept of guilty pleasure to a whole new level. Nonetheless, I am sorry, but I can't overcome the irritation that Maas's little games cause in me. She used the same lame and unprofessional trick twice now; my trust in her is gone, and I'm wondering if we should expect a third time too.
EDIT 29/03/16: Ok, so I read the excerpt -as usual, unforgivably late, but this time the delay is due to the fact that I didn't know whether to read it or not. If you want to join the club, you can find it here.
What do I think of it? I simply think that making a protagonist go OOC with three plain lines does take an inconceivable amount of talent. Because apparently the whole Queen of Shadows mess wasn't enough.
Respect, Maas. Really.
EDIT 14/01/16:
*braces herself for the incoming tomatoes*
I don't like the cover!
*runs away as fast as she can*
*Do I need to remind you to be civil? No, I don’t. Good kids.
Thanks to my wonderful friends Emer, Reyes and Sarah (click to read their reviews) who helped me up this calvary, with whom I shared joys and sorrows, and who made me laugh so much I probably won't need to swing by the gym for the rest of my life.
And a special mention goes to Katerina, Nastassja and Vera (again, click and be delighted by snarkiness), who ranted with me in the comments of more than one update.
Thank you. <3
(I told you reading this book was so much fun.)
---
➤ The book, in brief:
“Stop comparing. Stop comparing me to him.”
Because do you know what it is called when you keep and keep and keep comparing the previous love interest to the current one, and each single one of these sugary, clichéd, obvious and trite comparisons invariably leads to the conclusion that the ex is a prick while the newcomer is a Perfection Milkshake?
No, Maas? I thought so.
Oh well.
I’m going to say this just once: it’s called manipulation.
Now look at me, Maas. Do I look like a reader who enjoys being manipulated to you?
No? Why, I thought so.
To all those who still have to start this series and are intentioned to: don’t read A Court of Thornes and Roses. Spoil yourself a little of what happens there and start with this one. Because -and this is the truly sad thing, as someone else said before me- A Court of Mist and Fury could even be enjoyable if the first book had not happened before.
•I won’t go so far as to say that what we have here is a case of lack of “show” and an excess of “tell”, because the first chapters do show that Tamlin, whether for some PTSD or because he has always been a scumbag, undeniably acts like the worst man on the planet. I am even willing to forgive how caricatural his behaviour appears. But, throughout the book, every occasion is a good occasion to throw in a comment to overturn completely also all the positive parts of him that are showed in the first book.
(In this regard, I should say that in A Court of Thornes and Roses I did not care for Tamlin in any way, so I am not speaking out of frustrated adoration.)
In this scenario, Tamlin is the epitome of all evil, while Rhys, of course, the epitome of all good: Tamlin cares for hierarchy, Rhys cares for family and nothing more (ugh); Tamlin wants her caged, Rhys want her free; as it turns out, , and so on. I am not in any way saying that a man shouldn’t give freedom to his woman (it’s not that he should; he must, uncompromisingly), or that a plot-twist like the one I mentioned isn’t a good turn of events, even in terms of characterization, but everything is just so stereotypical and trite and sickly sweet.
All of this, in the name of a ship. I think Maas should understand that falling out of love is just as normal as falling in. People fall out of love for normal reasons even if their exes don’t suddenly turn into maniacs. I am sick of this device, courtesy of Queen of Shadows, and I don’t need the new love interest to be pushed on me: I am perfectly able to decide for myself.
•I’ve seen some reviews in which these two characters are described as complex and multifaceted on the basis of their role reversal. Allow me to say that, in my opinion, nothing about them, in this book, is complex nor controversial. Maas did nothing more than switch their places and their personalities with them: Tamlin was the good one and turns out to be the villain; Rhysand was the villain (somehow, and indeed the Rhysand of the first book is the one I can honestly call intriguing) and now he is nothing short of a Fae Prince Charming. Simple as that.
Besides, I liked Rhysand in this book, but I deeply missed the more wicked, morally grey part of him that we saw Under the Mountain. He’s hot, sure, but he also comes off as flat and, at times, pathetic.
•It was a dick move , yes. And yet, I can’t wrap my mind around Feyre’s fickleness, considering that two chapter later she says this:
“I'm thinking that I was a lonely, hopeless person, and I might have fallen in love with the first thing -thing? Now he’s a thing?- that showed me a hint of kindness and safety. And I'm thinking maybe he knew that- maybe not actively, but maybe he wanted to be that person for someone. And maybe that worked for who I was before. Maybe it doesn't work for who- what I am now."
She had every right to leave the mansion and let him stew for a while, but if that is the result of months and months of undying love, well. He stopped being worth of her love maybe, but I don’t think she fought for it that hard either, especially if he really was dealing with some PTSD. I think love is also about trying to fight for the other person even when they don’t seem to fight for us, to give them time, to give them chances, even though at one point we have to stop. It just would have been nicer and more enjoyable if Feyre’s affection’s shift hadn’t been so swift, that’s it.
•All the contradictions. Feyre leave her abusive boyfriend, but then falls in the arms of a man who breaks every bone of a guy who called her names. Uh-uh. And if you say “He did that because he called her ‘whore’, and he’d been called whore too, and the trauma”, I say: how do you know Tamlin’s behaviour wasn’t due to his trauma too. Maybe he just needed time. But it’s okay if it’s Rhysand that does that because epitome-of-perfection, remember? His being all possessive is okay. He can say things like “She’s mine” and snarl at people who so much as look at her. And don’t get me started on indecent exposure.
•The new characters are all nice and pretty and invariably haunted by a dark dark past. It’s nice to read about them and to witness their banters, but they don’t stand out as particularly well-written or sophisticated.
•The plot is even weaker than Maas’s usual. And contrary to what I usually do, I’ll sum it up for you: Feyre flees. The
Well, wrong story, but that's basically what happens. In more than 600 pages.
•People purr. Normal cats, thank God, ordinarily talk like freaking civilized beings.
•The first time . I refuse to comment on this thing, and if it was me who had written such embarrassing idiocy, I would be hiding my head under the sand. Moreover, all the sex scenes are very cheesy, dramatic and over-written.
•Lucien and. I swear on my heart I have never, ever read anything more ridiculous than this scene (oh, no, wait: the mountains). The passage from normal, rational person to mad caveman takes less time than a spark to burn. I almost expected he started hissing “My preciousss”.
•And yet, I enjoyed it, or better, I enjoyed Rhys, Rhys, his long, sappy, teary declaration/explanation (I have a thing for this trope; it could have been a thousand times worse than it actually is, and still I would've loved it. I am such a softie, I know. My fault), the ending, and Rhys. The other things I pretty much despised. I also appreciate the fact that at least the author tried –and at some length, I think, even succeeded a tiny bit- to conceive a scenario in which Rhys’s cuddliness actually makes some sense.
I still prefer him wicked.
➽ To sum it up, what can I say? I read it with with ease because of an extremely fluent, even though not particularly sophisticated, writing style, and, as we all know, idiocies and mushy stuff can also be enjoyable, and truly, this book take the concept of guilty pleasure to a whole new level. Nonetheless, I am sorry, but I can't overcome the irritation that Maas's little games cause in me. She used the same lame and unprofessional trick twice now; my trust in her is gone, and I'm wondering if we should expect a third time too.
EDIT 29/03/16: Ok, so I read the excerpt -as usual, unforgivably late, but this time the delay is due to the fact that I didn't know whether to read it or not. If you want to join the club, you can find it here.
What do I think of it? I simply think that making a protagonist go OOC with three plain lines does take an inconceivable amount of talent. Because apparently the whole Queen of Shadows mess wasn't enough.
Respect, Maas. Really.
EDIT 14/01/16:
*braces herself for the incoming tomatoes*
I don't like the cover!
*runs away as fast as she can*
June 14, 2017
LET ME START MY REVIEW BY QUOTING MY PRE-REVIEW, THE ONE THAT I WROTE BEFORE THIS BOOK CAME OUT:
Written in September 2015:
Now that I've read Queen of Shadows I don't know what to expect from this one. I AM SCARED. I'm totally open to the whole Feyre/Rhys thing, but I love Tamlin so much and I don't want him to be ruined by Sarah J. Maas! Can someone please tell her that she can make us love a character without ruining another character?
Because really, I ship Feyre and Tamlin, but I will not be mad if SJM handles Rhys's and Feyre's relationship with cleverness.
PLEASE SJM, DON'T RUIN TAMLIN.
.
.
.
And of course, WHAT DID SJM DO? RUIN TAMLIN!
I tried to write my review without major plot spoilers, but there will be some minor spoilers about how the characters were handled. And warning: my emotions over this book are a mess, you'll se how contrary they are!
Anyway... let me begin:
OH, I was mad! I was so angry when I started reading this book, because it is in the first chapter that you notice that Tamlin has changed and not for good. Now he's an asshole. He's insensitive and controlling, I couldn't stand him! So congrats, SJM, you made me despise my (now former) favorite character in this series.
I read a few reviews that said that Tamlin was always like that (a possessive piece of shit), but NO. HE WASN'T! He was caring and protective, not a control freak. I feel that Tamlin changed because of everything that happened with Amarantha. Everyone comments on how Feyre had PTSD and Tamlin didn't try to understand her, but I think Tamlin also had PTSD. What he went through with Amarantha (and with almost losing Feyre) had a huge toll in him. I can accept that he changed because of that, but no one acknowledges it, not the readers, not Feyre, not even SJM. So that must mean that he just changed because he's an asshole (I'm not buying it).
My problem is that SJM wanted to force Rhysand on us, like she wanted to force Rowan on us in her Throne of Glass series. Excuse me, miss, but I don't need the love interest to be pushed on me. I can decide by myself. And the thing is... I FELL IN LOVE WITH RHYS IN THIS BOOK! And I think I would've fallen for him even if Tamlin hadn't been the piece of shit he was.
Before this book, I couldn't imagine any possible reason that would make Feyre leave Tamlin and fall for Rhys. Not after everything she went through to save Tam, he was the love of her life and her feelings for him were genuine. But then of course, the author put a lot of effort in ruining Tamlin, just so Feyre could fall out of love. What SJM doesn't seem to understand is that falling out of love is normal. It's perfectly fine. You don't have to turn a character into a bad guy for that to happen. Sarah turned Tam into a villain, and that was not necessary.
I also hated the comparisons Feyre was always making between Rhys and Tam, so frustrating! They were so obviously put there only to make sure that the reader understood that Tamlin was evil and Rhysand was good:
- "Ugh, Tamlin doesn't let me go anywhere. But Rhys lets me do anything I want!"
- "Ugh, I had my nightmares and Tamlin never woke up to confort me. But Rhys is always there for me when that happens!"
- "Ugh, Tamlin only cares about hierarchy. But Rhys cares about family and about his people!"
- "Ugh, Tamlin doesn't let me enter to his room. But of course Rhys invites me to his!"
...I MEAN, SERIOUSLY? We can notice that by ourselves, but Feyre kept comparing and comparing during the whole book.
Have you read the Shatter Me series? It was as if Feyre was Juliette, Tamlin was Adam and Rhysand was Warner... the very same pattern! First Tamlin was a cinnamon roll and suddenly he becomes a bad guy who only thinks about himself and is obsessed with Feyre. And Rhys was the evil guy in the first book but then you discover that he had really good reasons to do everything he did, and he's a good guy incapable of commiting any evil. Gosh, I really liked Tamlin, but now I simply can't stand him. SJM succeeded!
And I had other issues with this book... but that was my main one. I'm afraid this has become the modus-operandi of SJM.
Let me talk about those other issues... starting with Rhys. His character really intrigued me in the first installment of this series, he seemed evil, and I knew there was more in him than what he let us see. I knew he had his reasons to act the way he did, and of course I wanted to know why. BUT THIS WAS JUST RIDICULOUS. He's not just not evil, he is too good, bordering in perfection. He's a saint, he's "Saint Rhys". There is too much goodness in him. He's also the "most powerful Fae ever born", see? It's unnatural to be that perfect.
Another issue was that Rhys seems to be the only High Lord that cares about peace and prosperity. He's literally the only one trying to stop the King. The other High Lords don't care about humans! The other High Lords are stupid! I feel like SJM did this just to add more perfection to Rhysand's character: Obviously he's the only considerate Fae that cares about the poor humans, the other High Lords are nothing compared to him!
Now let's go to the other side of my review (this will be drastic): Despite eveything, I LOVE RHYS SO MUCH! UGH, SARAH! You did it, you made me fall in love with him! Maybe it's his good nature. Maybe it's his perfection. Maybe it's because he reminds me of Warner. I don't care anymore... I'm just really rooting for him. I don't know how Sarah does it. Even with everything that bothers me about his character, I couldn't help falling for him.
And it is rare when I change my ship in a series, but I did in this one because there's no way I'd still ship Feyre and Tamlin after everything that happened in this book (which is sad, because I really shipped them in the first book). Now I can only say that I ship Feyre and Rhys SO. MUCH. Their relationship development was beautiful, everything they went through made their love more real, made it stronger. There is no love triangle here, there are no teams, there are simply Feyre and Rhys and I NEED them to be together.
There were only two things I didn't like about their relationship. 1) ...Cliché, cliché, cliché. 2) The "YOU ARE MINE" parts. I mean, Feyre left Tamlin because he was possesive and controlling, but all those "you are mine" are not exactly different, right? I don't like that kind of love. It should not be about belonging to someone, it should be about belonging together.
I also love Cassian and Azriel. Everything that happened at the end with them made me a sobbing mess! I just hope Cassian recovers , because if not, I'll just go to a corner and cry forever.
Now let's talk about Feyre. Sometimes she infuriated me because of all the comparisons she made and because she was always complaining about Tamlin not trying to understand her, but she didn't really try to understand him, either. Sometimes she was really unfair with him . AND NO, I don't want them back together (NEVER), it's just that she made me really mad sometimes. But in contrast, I think she really grew as a character in this book, she blew me away! The scene with the water wolves was AMAZING. Also ...I couldn't stand it, it was painful to read. But back to Feyre, I like the directon her character is going.
I can't wait to read the next installment! I know Tamlin doesn't have a chance of forgiveness (I myself can't ever forgive him), but I'd like to see redemption in Lucien, he's a character with great potential and in this book he was just too weak.
The world building was great, a total A+! I'm still a little confused about the whole Jurian ordeal, but I hope he gets killed soon :). All in all, this book was GREAT, I think that maybe it was better than the first one, and that's saying a lot, because I loved ACOTAR. But since I had way too much issues with it, I could not give it 5 stars. I don't know how Sarah does it... she makes me love her and hate her in every book she writes! But it's more love than hate, I am SJM trash. She's QUEEN.
Written in September 2015:
Now that I've read Queen of Shadows I don't know what to expect from this one. I AM SCARED. I'm totally open to the whole Feyre/Rhys thing, but I love Tamlin so much and I don't want him to be ruined by Sarah J. Maas! Can someone please tell her that she can make us love a character without ruining another character?
Because really, I ship Feyre and Tamlin, but I will not be mad if SJM handles Rhys's and Feyre's relationship with cleverness.
PLEASE SJM, DON'T RUIN TAMLIN.
.
.
.
And of course, WHAT DID SJM DO? RUIN TAMLIN!
I tried to write my review without major plot spoilers, but there will be some minor spoilers about how the characters were handled. And warning: my emotions over this book are a mess, you'll se how contrary they are!
Anyway... let me begin:
OH, I was mad! I was so angry when I started reading this book, because it is in the first chapter that you notice that Tamlin has changed and not for good. Now he's an asshole. He's insensitive and controlling, I couldn't stand him! So congrats, SJM, you made me despise my (now former) favorite character in this series.
I read a few reviews that said that Tamlin was always like that (a possessive piece of shit), but NO. HE WASN'T! He was caring and protective, not a control freak. I feel that Tamlin changed because of everything that happened with Amarantha. Everyone comments on how Feyre had PTSD and Tamlin didn't try to understand her, but I think Tamlin also had PTSD. What he went through with Amarantha (and with almost losing Feyre) had a huge toll in him. I can accept that he changed because of that, but no one acknowledges it, not the readers, not Feyre, not even SJM. So that must mean that he just changed because he's an asshole (I'm not buying it).
My problem is that SJM wanted to force Rhysand on us, like she wanted to force Rowan on us in her Throne of Glass series. Excuse me, miss, but I don't need the love interest to be pushed on me. I can decide by myself. And the thing is... I FELL IN LOVE WITH RHYS IN THIS BOOK! And I think I would've fallen for him even if Tamlin hadn't been the piece of shit he was.
Before this book, I couldn't imagine any possible reason that would make Feyre leave Tamlin and fall for Rhys. Not after everything she went through to save Tam, he was the love of her life and her feelings for him were genuine. But then of course, the author put a lot of effort in ruining Tamlin, just so Feyre could fall out of love. What SJM doesn't seem to understand is that falling out of love is normal. It's perfectly fine. You don't have to turn a character into a bad guy for that to happen. Sarah turned Tam into a villain, and that was not necessary.
I also hated the comparisons Feyre was always making between Rhys and Tam, so frustrating! They were so obviously put there only to make sure that the reader understood that Tamlin was evil and Rhysand was good:
- "Ugh, Tamlin doesn't let me go anywhere. But Rhys lets me do anything I want!"
- "Ugh, I had my nightmares and Tamlin never woke up to confort me. But Rhys is always there for me when that happens!"
- "Ugh, Tamlin only cares about hierarchy. But Rhys cares about family and about his people!"
- "Ugh, Tamlin doesn't let me enter to his room. But of course Rhys invites me to his!"
...I MEAN, SERIOUSLY? We can notice that by ourselves, but Feyre kept comparing and comparing during the whole book.
Have you read the Shatter Me series? It was as if Feyre was Juliette, Tamlin was Adam and Rhysand was Warner... the very same pattern! First Tamlin was a cinnamon roll and suddenly he becomes a bad guy who only thinks about himself and is obsessed with Feyre. And Rhys was the evil guy in the first book but then you discover that he had really good reasons to do everything he did, and he's a good guy incapable of commiting any evil. Gosh, I really liked Tamlin, but now I simply can't stand him. SJM succeeded!
And I had other issues with this book... but that was my main one. I'm afraid this has become the modus-operandi of SJM.
Let me talk about those other issues... starting with Rhys. His character really intrigued me in the first installment of this series, he seemed evil, and I knew there was more in him than what he let us see. I knew he had his reasons to act the way he did, and of course I wanted to know why. BUT THIS WAS JUST RIDICULOUS. He's not just not evil, he is too good, bordering in perfection. He's a saint, he's "Saint Rhys". There is too much goodness in him. He's also the "most powerful Fae ever born", see? It's unnatural to be that perfect.
Another issue was that Rhys seems to be the only High Lord that cares about peace and prosperity. He's literally the only one trying to stop the King. The other High Lords don't care about humans! The other High Lords are stupid! I feel like SJM did this just to add more perfection to Rhysand's character: Obviously he's the only considerate Fae that cares about the poor humans, the other High Lords are nothing compared to him!
Now let's go to the other side of my review (this will be drastic): Despite eveything, I LOVE RHYS SO MUCH! UGH, SARAH! You did it, you made me fall in love with him! Maybe it's his good nature. Maybe it's his perfection. Maybe it's because he reminds me of Warner. I don't care anymore... I'm just really rooting for him. I don't know how Sarah does it. Even with everything that bothers me about his character, I couldn't help falling for him.
And it is rare when I change my ship in a series, but I did in this one because there's no way I'd still ship Feyre and Tamlin after everything that happened in this book (which is sad, because I really shipped them in the first book). Now I can only say that I ship Feyre and Rhys SO. MUCH. Their relationship development was beautiful, everything they went through made their love more real, made it stronger. There is no love triangle here, there are no teams, there are simply Feyre and Rhys and I NEED them to be together.
There were only two things I didn't like about their relationship. 1) ...Cliché, cliché, cliché. 2) The "YOU ARE MINE" parts. I mean, Feyre left Tamlin because he was possesive and controlling, but all those "you are mine" are not exactly different, right? I don't like that kind of love. It should not be about belonging to someone, it should be about belonging together.
I also love Cassian and Azriel. Everything that happened at the end with them made me a sobbing mess! I just hope Cassian recovers , because if not, I'll just go to a corner and cry forever.
Now let's talk about Feyre. Sometimes she infuriated me because of all the comparisons she made and because she was always complaining about Tamlin not trying to understand her, but she didn't really try to understand him, either. Sometimes she was really unfair with him . AND NO, I don't want them back together (NEVER), it's just that she made me really mad sometimes. But in contrast, I think she really grew as a character in this book, she blew me away! The scene with the water wolves was AMAZING. Also ...I couldn't stand it, it was painful to read. But back to Feyre, I like the directon her character is going.
I can't wait to read the next installment! I know Tamlin doesn't have a chance of forgiveness (I myself can't ever forgive him), but I'd like to see redemption in Lucien, he's a character with great potential and in this book he was just too weak.
The world building was great, a total A+! I'm still a little confused about the whole Jurian ordeal, but I hope he gets killed soon :). All in all, this book was GREAT, I think that maybe it was better than the first one, and that's saying a lot, because I loved ACOTAR. But since I had way too much issues with it, I could not give it 5 stars. I don't know how Sarah does it... she makes me love her and hate her in every book she writes! But it's more love than hate, I am SJM trash. She's QUEEN.
July 16, 2018
I've never been this manipulated in my life.
I was stripped off my free will until there was only a shell left behind, a puppet complying with her master's whim. This is the most vulgar thing Sarah J. Maas could do.
Allow me to elaborate.
•In order to be candid, I have to admit that I enjoyed A Court of Mist and Fury more than I expected, and found some redeeming traits that prevented me from rating it lower. However, I can't hide my rage and utter disappointment since everything we read in A Court of Thorns and Roses vanished into thin air. Remember the sweet love story between Tamlin and Feyre that defied immortal tyrants and resulted in great sacrifices in the name of their love? Well, forget about it. We were warned that this would be a Hades and Persephone retelling, meaning the romantic relationship between Feyre and Rhysand would be inevitable. The way, though, Sarah handled the transition was feeble and infuriating to say the least. I don't think there has ever been a character more mistreated than Tamlin, with Lucien following suit. We get it, Sarah cares about her precious baby Rhysand, but her real talent as an author would be to make me choose him because I found something unique in him, not because she forced him down my throat. Tamlin's inexcusable behaviour suffocated Feyre, and I felt drowning and suffocating along with her. Since I couldn't possibly wish for her to stay in a mentally abusive relationship, Rhysand was the deus ex machina, the only one to save the damsel in distress, given that her friends abandoned her and her fiance suffered from split personality. Sarah dangled Rhysand in front of me, and every reader, saying pick him pick him pick him. She had Tamlin and Rhysand facing identical situations, only for Tamlin to do the wrong thing while precious Rhysand was the impersonation of right, of all that's good in the world. Tamlin locked Feyre? Rhysand set her free. Tamlin forbid Feyre from participating in his activities? Rhysand would always have her by his side. Tamlin extinguished the fire burning in Feyre and left her a hollow version of herself? Rhysand fueled that fire, and so on, so on. Now, I've been on the losing side of a triangle before, but always both love interests had some good qualities. In this case, though, Sarah served you the answer on a silver platter by annihilating the opponent and erasing everything that made the relationship between Feyre and Tamlin good and healthy. Rhysand was always so thoughtful and considerate and knew what Feyre needed, he was her salvation. Of course he was, there was a freaking magic bond between them that allowed him to read her thoughts. Even the lesser fae servant in the Day Court would understand her needs if they were bonded. In every chapter she would chant Rhysand is so gorgeous, Rhysand is so sexy, Rhysand is the most powerful High Lord in the history of Prythian yada yada. We.Get.It. Don't even get me started on the repetition of the word mate, I rolled my eyes so many times I fear I might have a permanent problem.
•Lucien losing his backbone and Tamlin turning into a psycopath a-hole were not the only character mistreatments, though. Rhysand was the victim of his own creator's adoration. In order to make him the perfect match for Feyre, she made him too perfect. Gone is the wicked, morally grey, complex character that intrigued us in A Court of Thorns and Roses. While unveiling this Rhysand, instead of finding shadows and darkness and lust for power, we found a sappy and fluffy bear asking for love and affection. Everything he did was out of love for his friends, for Feyre and his country, and I fail to accept his reasoning behind his actions Under the Mountain. If you don't want the villain to know how you feel about Feyre, you can simply ignore her. But no, why not drug her, grop her while drugged and humiliate her instead?
•Now let's get to the relationship between Feyre and Rhysand. For more than the first half of the book I liked them, with their banters and flirtation and the pent-up tension. But from attraction and friendship Feyre suddenly jumped to declarations of love and then mountains trembled and she started glowing and their sex scenes varied between steamy to cringe-worthy and more eye-rolling ensued (I seriously need to see an ophthalmologist).
•Plotwise, I can't help but notice that some things were very convenient. You suspect the King of Hybern is preparing for war? Let's ask the monstrous ancient creature, who in the span of five minutes will give us all the answers, including the means to defeat the King and the exact location of the weapons to nullify his powers. Wanna convince the mortal queens to give you what you need? Write a mushy letter about your love for Feyre. The result is guaranteed. I mean, really?
•Why three stars then, you may wonder. Well, I became very fond of the secondary characters. Mor, Azriel, Cassian and the ultimate Queen, Amren, were funny and caring and loyal, and I was actually more invested in their stories (which, to be honest, were all sob stories). I also enjoyed Sarah's lush descriptions, you could feel and breathe and walk the streets of Velaris, and the Summer Court. But most importantly, I admire the way Feyre's trauma from her experiences Under the Mountain was depicted. The guilt, the sorrow, the self-loathing were tangible, and the healing was slow and realistic. Her wounds would be there, and she learned to live with them. Feyre became a strong woman who embraced her gifts, her powers, her sensuality and ferociously claimed her place alongside men. She rose from her ashes.
•A Court of Mist and Fury had great potential, but I can't say I loved it. I'm partially sad because I lost some of my respect for Sarah, for shredding to pieces the characters I loved only to show her own favorites are better. I don't know whether I'll read A Court of Wings and Ruin. Before the last chapters it was a big no, but that final confrontation was the book's highlight for me and now I'm considering to dwelve into the third instalment to find out the end of this story-arc.
To all my friends who loved this book, and I know there are many of you, please don't be harsh on me. The magic of reading is precisely the fact that we all read the same book but get something different from it. ❤️
You can find this review and more over at BookNest.eu!
I was stripped off my free will until there was only a shell left behind, a puppet complying with her master's whim. This is the most vulgar thing Sarah J. Maas could do.
Allow me to elaborate.
•In order to be candid, I have to admit that I enjoyed A Court of Mist and Fury more than I expected, and found some redeeming traits that prevented me from rating it lower. However, I can't hide my rage and utter disappointment since everything we read in A Court of Thorns and Roses vanished into thin air. Remember the sweet love story between Tamlin and Feyre that defied immortal tyrants and resulted in great sacrifices in the name of their love? Well, forget about it. We were warned that this would be a Hades and Persephone retelling, meaning the romantic relationship between Feyre and Rhysand would be inevitable. The way, though, Sarah handled the transition was feeble and infuriating to say the least. I don't think there has ever been a character more mistreated than Tamlin, with Lucien following suit. We get it, Sarah cares about her precious baby Rhysand, but her real talent as an author would be to make me choose him because I found something unique in him, not because she forced him down my throat. Tamlin's inexcusable behaviour suffocated Feyre, and I felt drowning and suffocating along with her. Since I couldn't possibly wish for her to stay in a mentally abusive relationship, Rhysand was the deus ex machina, the only one to save the damsel in distress, given that her friends abandoned her and her fiance suffered from split personality. Sarah dangled Rhysand in front of me, and every reader, saying pick him pick him pick him. She had Tamlin and Rhysand facing identical situations, only for Tamlin to do the wrong thing while precious Rhysand was the impersonation of right, of all that's good in the world. Tamlin locked Feyre? Rhysand set her free. Tamlin forbid Feyre from participating in his activities? Rhysand would always have her by his side. Tamlin extinguished the fire burning in Feyre and left her a hollow version of herself? Rhysand fueled that fire, and so on, so on. Now, I've been on the losing side of a triangle before, but always both love interests had some good qualities. In this case, though, Sarah served you the answer on a silver platter by annihilating the opponent and erasing everything that made the relationship between Feyre and Tamlin good and healthy. Rhysand was always so thoughtful and considerate and knew what Feyre needed, he was her salvation. Of course he was, there was a freaking magic bond between them that allowed him to read her thoughts. Even the lesser fae servant in the Day Court would understand her needs if they were bonded. In every chapter she would chant Rhysand is so gorgeous, Rhysand is so sexy, Rhysand is the most powerful High Lord in the history of Prythian yada yada. We.Get.It. Don't even get me started on the repetition of the word mate, I rolled my eyes so many times I fear I might have a permanent problem.
•Lucien losing his backbone and Tamlin turning into a psycopath a-hole were not the only character mistreatments, though. Rhysand was the victim of his own creator's adoration. In order to make him the perfect match for Feyre, she made him too perfect. Gone is the wicked, morally grey, complex character that intrigued us in A Court of Thorns and Roses. While unveiling this Rhysand, instead of finding shadows and darkness and lust for power, we found a sappy and fluffy bear asking for love and affection. Everything he did was out of love for his friends, for Feyre and his country, and I fail to accept his reasoning behind his actions Under the Mountain. If you don't want the villain to know how you feel about Feyre, you can simply ignore her. But no, why not drug her, grop her while drugged and humiliate her instead?
•Now let's get to the relationship between Feyre and Rhysand. For more than the first half of the book I liked them, with their banters and flirtation and the pent-up tension. But from attraction and friendship Feyre suddenly jumped to declarations of love and then mountains trembled and she started glowing and their sex scenes varied between steamy to cringe-worthy and more eye-rolling ensued (I seriously need to see an ophthalmologist).
•Plotwise, I can't help but notice that some things were very convenient. You suspect the King of Hybern is preparing for war? Let's ask the monstrous ancient creature, who in the span of five minutes will give us all the answers, including the means to defeat the King and the exact location of the weapons to nullify his powers. Wanna convince the mortal queens to give you what you need? Write a mushy letter about your love for Feyre. The result is guaranteed. I mean, really?
•Why three stars then, you may wonder. Well, I became very fond of the secondary characters. Mor, Azriel, Cassian and the ultimate Queen, Amren, were funny and caring and loyal, and I was actually more invested in their stories (which, to be honest, were all sob stories). I also enjoyed Sarah's lush descriptions, you could feel and breathe and walk the streets of Velaris, and the Summer Court. But most importantly, I admire the way Feyre's trauma from her experiences Under the Mountain was depicted. The guilt, the sorrow, the self-loathing were tangible, and the healing was slow and realistic. Her wounds would be there, and she learned to live with them. Feyre became a strong woman who embraced her gifts, her powers, her sensuality and ferociously claimed her place alongside men. She rose from her ashes.
“When you spend so long trapped in darkness, you find that the darkness begins to stare back.”
•A Court of Mist and Fury had great potential, but I can't say I loved it. I'm partially sad because I lost some of my respect for Sarah, for shredding to pieces the characters I loved only to show her own favorites are better. I don't know whether I'll read A Court of Wings and Ruin. Before the last chapters it was a big no, but that final confrontation was the book's highlight for me and now I'm considering to dwelve into the third instalment to find out the end of this story-arc.
To all my friends who loved this book, and I know there are many of you, please don't be harsh on me. The magic of reading is precisely the fact that we all read the same book but get something different from it. ❤️
You can find this review and more over at BookNest.eu!
November 15, 2023
Let's pretend this is Starfall and I have more than 5 ⭐ to give
This book’s song mood match – Nocturnal by Elle Vee
Full review on my Blog: The Dacian She-Wolf 🐺
“To the stars who listen – and the dreams that are answered.”
How dares Sarah J. Maas??
How dare you, lady?? How dare you destroy me like that and then drink cups full of my salty tears like they are fine wine?? What kind of fucked up sadistic witchy ritual is this for you?
You annihilate me with your cruel imagination. And because I’m a masochist, I love it. Keep going queen, I love this kind of pain.
So, I couldn’t have picked a better time to read this but the quarantine time; all I did all day was reading this; I was being transported to this amazing world that I want to be part of right now – the Night Court is my eternal home from now on.
“Stay here for however long you want. Stay here forever, if you feel like it.”
It helped my mental health so much I am at a lack of words to express my gratitude.
When I was younger, I used to read a lot of mythological stories and even though the Greek mythology confused the hell out of me, I had this fascination for some badass ladies. Amongst them were Persephone and her story. Yes, my cheesy heart loved that, okay?
Persephone was the Bride of Spring, but she was stolen by the God of the Underworld – the terrible Hades – because he was head-over-heels in love with her. But she hated him with all her being until…she didn’t anymore. She learned to love his weird-ass too until he became her husband.
If this isn’t the literary world’s foundation for their enemies-to-lovers theme, then I don’t know what this is, I give up.
Well, this is the exact thing that happens in A Court of Mist and Fury . Rhys gets to be Hades (duh, obvy!) and Feyre is our darling Persephone. My brain started producing serotonin once again because of that tiny little fact so me now happy beyond compare.
This book is a love statement. Falling in love – slowly, truly, deeply, madly in love. And hard. But heart-crying beautiful. And it is not only about two beautiful creatures learning how to love each other and all the states they get through to find that love.
This book teaches of how to fall in love with beautiful people, beautiful faces, beautiful minds and beautiful souls. And most importantly, how to fall in love with yourself. How to cherish everything you get to have in order to know how to soothe your life and spirit.
“But then she snapped your neck.”
Tears rolled down his face.
“And I felt you die”, he whispered.
Tears were sliding down my own cheeks.“And this beautiful, wonderful thing that had come into my life, this gift from the Cauldron…It was gone.”
Don’t get confused though. This is still a Maas work of art and thus it is still very, very extremely hot. I can’t manage to launch into an explanation of how hot this book is because it is on fire, okay? And with this, SJM makes out of this book a full emotional experience (an emotional roller coaster better said but oh well).
All of my favourite characters from this series make an appearance in this book. If you thought you loved the characters you encountered in the first book, then wait to be blown away by the apparition of the Inner Circle. They’re precious, deadly soft babies that I would want nothing more in life for them but to be fed, warm, cuddled and loved.
- Cassian is the ruffian of my heart, he’s big and loud and gives off this feeling that he’ll keep you happy and safe no matter what; just love him so much;
- Azriel is the baby-bat-guardian-angel of my soul whom I love so much and all I want to do in life is hug him and feed him and protect him from everything and everyone;
- Amren is a scary old bitch whom I love for the simple fact that she doesn’t seem to give a fuck about anyone but she’ll be ready to defend her friends if it comes to it;
- Mor is my girl-crush of this series and sometimes I think she’ll be my ultimate wine-drinking bestie; I love her to death; “A queen – a queen who bowed to no one, a queen who had faced them all down and triumphed. A queen who owned her body, her life, her destiny and never apologized for it.”
All those weirdos are like a big, fat present for me, wrapped up in colourful paper and with a bow tied on top. I don’t know how I managed to go on with my life before I learned about their existence.
Now, moving on to more serious, adult-like topics, I want to confess one thing: this book is extremely sensual. It really goes places and I went with it like in trance. The level of sexiness explored here is so intense that it could be made a masterpiece of sensually falling in love. And this is mainly because of Rhys.
In this book, I honestly cared more about Rhys than I cared about all of the characters in A Court of Thorns and Roses . He is the sexiest thing I’ve ever encountered in my life and with this, I have discovered, he’s my type of man, no questions asked.
“I have known many High Lords. Cruel ones, cunning ones, weak ones, powerful ones. But never one that dreamed. Not as he does.”
It feels like he’s having his own personalised gravitational system and we simply happen to fly around like the băgători-de-seamă that we are, if I’m allowed to express myself as Romanian as possible.
Rhysand and Feyre's falling in love journey is one of the most beautiful love stories this world could read about. It is so warm, but also so crushing. I love it. It’s like a most beautifully painted love dream.
By the end of this – *vaguely gesturing towards everything ACOMAF is*– I felt tired, hurt and blurry-sighted. And truth be said, a bit sobby (a bit more). I’ve been hurt to my core.
But I loved this book so much, honestly. And I’m thankful for the fact that it exists for me to read it.
“We were a song that had been sung from the very first ember of light in the world.”
This book’s song mood match – Nocturnal by Elle Vee
Full review on my Blog: The Dacian She-Wolf 🐺
“To the stars who listen – and the dreams that are answered.”
How dares Sarah J. Maas??
How dare you, lady?? How dare you destroy me like that and then drink cups full of my salty tears like they are fine wine?? What kind of fucked up sadistic witchy ritual is this for you?
You annihilate me with your cruel imagination. And because I’m a masochist, I love it. Keep going queen, I love this kind of pain.
So, I couldn’t have picked a better time to read this but the quarantine time; all I did all day was reading this; I was being transported to this amazing world that I want to be part of right now – the Night Court is my eternal home from now on.
“Stay here for however long you want. Stay here forever, if you feel like it.”
It helped my mental health so much I am at a lack of words to express my gratitude.
When I was younger, I used to read a lot of mythological stories and even though the Greek mythology confused the hell out of me, I had this fascination for some badass ladies. Amongst them were Persephone and her story. Yes, my cheesy heart loved that, okay?
Persephone was the Bride of Spring, but she was stolen by the God of the Underworld – the terrible Hades – because he was head-over-heels in love with her. But she hated him with all her being until…she didn’t anymore. She learned to love his weird-ass too until he became her husband.
If this isn’t the literary world’s foundation for their enemies-to-lovers theme, then I don’t know what this is, I give up.
Well, this is the exact thing that happens in A Court of Mist and Fury . Rhys gets to be Hades (duh, obvy!) and Feyre is our darling Persephone. My brain started producing serotonin once again because of that tiny little fact so me now happy beyond compare.
This book is a love statement. Falling in love – slowly, truly, deeply, madly in love. And hard. But heart-crying beautiful. And it is not only about two beautiful creatures learning how to love each other and all the states they get through to find that love.
This book teaches of how to fall in love with beautiful people, beautiful faces, beautiful minds and beautiful souls. And most importantly, how to fall in love with yourself. How to cherish everything you get to have in order to know how to soothe your life and spirit.
“But then she snapped your neck.”
Tears rolled down his face.
“And I felt you die”, he whispered.
Tears were sliding down my own cheeks.“And this beautiful, wonderful thing that had come into my life, this gift from the Cauldron…It was gone.”
Don’t get confused though. This is still a Maas work of art and thus it is still very, very extremely hot. I can’t manage to launch into an explanation of how hot this book is because it is on fire, okay? And with this, SJM makes out of this book a full emotional experience (an emotional roller coaster better said but oh well).
All of my favourite characters from this series make an appearance in this book. If you thought you loved the characters you encountered in the first book, then wait to be blown away by the apparition of the Inner Circle. They’re precious, deadly soft babies that I would want nothing more in life for them but to be fed, warm, cuddled and loved.
- Cassian is the ruffian of my heart, he’s big and loud and gives off this feeling that he’ll keep you happy and safe no matter what; just love him so much;
- Azriel is the baby-bat-guardian-angel of my soul whom I love so much and all I want to do in life is hug him and feed him and protect him from everything and everyone;
- Amren is a scary old bitch whom I love for the simple fact that she doesn’t seem to give a fuck about anyone but she’ll be ready to defend her friends if it comes to it;
- Mor is my girl-crush of this series and sometimes I think she’ll be my ultimate wine-drinking bestie; I love her to death; “A queen – a queen who bowed to no one, a queen who had faced them all down and triumphed. A queen who owned her body, her life, her destiny and never apologized for it.”
All those weirdos are like a big, fat present for me, wrapped up in colourful paper and with a bow tied on top. I don’t know how I managed to go on with my life before I learned about their existence.
Now, moving on to more serious, adult-like topics, I want to confess one thing: this book is extremely sensual. It really goes places and I went with it like in trance. The level of sexiness explored here is so intense that it could be made a masterpiece of sensually falling in love. And this is mainly because of Rhys.
In this book, I honestly cared more about Rhys than I cared about all of the characters in A Court of Thorns and Roses . He is the sexiest thing I’ve ever encountered in my life and with this, I have discovered, he’s my type of man, no questions asked.
“I have known many High Lords. Cruel ones, cunning ones, weak ones, powerful ones. But never one that dreamed. Not as he does.”
It feels like he’s having his own personalised gravitational system and we simply happen to fly around like the băgători-de-seamă that we are, if I’m allowed to express myself as Romanian as possible.
Rhysand and Feyre's falling in love journey is one of the most beautiful love stories this world could read about. It is so warm, but also so crushing. I love it. It’s like a most beautifully painted love dream.
By the end of this – *vaguely gesturing towards everything ACOMAF is*– I felt tired, hurt and blurry-sighted. And truth be said, a bit sobby (a bit more). I’ve been hurt to my core.
But I loved this book so much, honestly. And I’m thankful for the fact that it exists for me to read it.
“We were a song that had been sung from the very first ember of light in the world.”
February 10, 2017
❝I was not a pet, not a doll, not an animal. I was a survivor, and I was strong. I would not be weak, or helpless again. I would not, could not be broken. Tamed.❞
A Court of Thorns and Roses was one of the first books I started reading that got me into Fantasy and reviewing books. Way back when this series, the Throne of Glass series, and Sarah J. Maas, herself, wasn't hyped up like there's no tomorrow. It was the first book I've read by Sarah J. Maas and the reason I picked up the Throne of Glass series because I just needed more SJM in my life.
I was satisfied with the way things ended in ACOTAR so when I heard that some "changes" were going to be made in A Court of Mist and Fury, I was a little disappointed. I was NOT a fan of the changes that were made in the Throne of Glass series which was why I haven't picked up Queen of Shadows yet even though the book has been sitting on my shelf since the day it's been released. That's just my opinion. I know some SJM fans are going to start pouncing because they sincerely believe that Sarah could absolutely do no wrong. Don't get me wrong, I LOVE SARAH J. MAAS. She is an outstanding author. I love her writing, her characters, and the world that she brings to life. It was her books that changed my perspective on Young Adult Fantasy, but I honestly wouldn't say that I agree with every direction that SJM takes with her books.
I suppose the questions to ask now are: what was my stance at the end of ACOTAR and how did I perceive the changes that were made after reading ACOMAF?
Let me address the most important aspect of Sarah J. Maas's books, this series, and probably the thing that majority of readers care about the most: THE ROMANCE. Since A Court of Thorns and Roses was a loose retelling of Beauty and the Beast, my ship of course was none other than Tamlin and Feyre. I loved them as individuals and I loved them even more as a couple. AND I loved Rhysand. Just not as a love interest. I felt like Feyre wasn't worthy of the enigma that was Rhysand. But knowing the trend that SJM follows in all of her books, I figured a change in love interests was inevitable. After all, a book isn't written by Sarah J. Maas if there isn't some character butchering and changes in love interests involved.
But after reading A Court of Mist and Fury, I actually found myself accepting the transition in love interests much to my surprise. As much as I wanted Tamlin and Feyre to stay together, I knew it wasn't going to happen. These two people that survived weren't the same people that were Under the Mountain. They're relationship became such a nightmare and so unhealthy. It was two damaged lovers waiting for a disaster to happen.
In the beginning of this series, I understood where Tamlin was coming from and why he was so protective of Feyre. It was for Feyre's own good and nobody wants to lose the people they love and/or care about. But he took it way too far. He became too overbearing to the point where he was holding Feyre back. We all understood the trials and suffering that Feyre had to go through but I feel like people don't acknowledge what Tamlin had to go through as well while they were Under the Mountain. It was nothing close to what Feyre had to go through but Tamlin had to watch the person he loved suffer and die. He couldn't protect her the way he wanted and he didn't fight for her as he knew he very well could have. He was helpless and a coward. I think he realized this, which was why he tried to make up for it afterwards by protecting her now to the point where she's being suffocated. It still doesn't excuse what Tamlin does in this book but he's just another damaged character like Feyre and Rhysand. He's just hurting in different ways and expressing that pain in a way the he views would make up for his shortcomings in the first book. Tamlin loves Feyre, that much is evident. He just loves her too much, and that is the tragedy.
As for Rhysand, all I can say is that I loved him in ACOTAR and I loved him even more in A Court of Mist and Fury. I loved that we finally get a good understanding of Rhys as a character, the secrets he's kept, and the sacrifices he's made for the good of his people and his court. He was everything that Tamlin was not and twice the man and High Lord that Tamlin will ever be. I'm not completely sure if I'm 100% on board with Feyre and Rhysand yet but I love their chemistry, friendship, and the way they just understand and respect one another. I think I would've been head over heels in love with Feyre and Rhys instantly as a couple if ACOTAR never happened and I didn't get so attached to Feyre and Tamlin. But I no longer ship Tamlin/Feyre and I'm slowly, but surely, beginning to fall in love with Rhysand and Feyre little by little.
With romance aside, everything about A Court of Mist and Fury turned out every bit as great as I anticipated a year ago. Sarah J. Maas did not disappoint. I was preparing myself for the worst but instead I got the best. Sarah really knows how to capture her audience with her writing, worldbuilding, and characters that she has created. Of all the new things that were introduced in this book, the new characters of the Night Court were definitely my favorite. I thought the Spring Court was great in ACOTAR with characters like Lucien and Alis but the Night Court was at a whole new level with Cassian, Azriel, Morrigan, and Amren. BADASS is literally an understatement describing these new characters.
Besides Rhysand and Feyre, ACOMAF introduced so many new ships and I can't handle all the perfectness that everyone is. I now ship Mor and Azriel with all of my being, just putting it out there. XD And Cassian and Nesta. And Lucian and Elain. None for you Tamlin.
Overall, I was glad I waited to read A Court of Mist and Fury because as a result, I was able to dive into the story with an open mind about the changes that were going to be made in terms of romance and the direction that Sarah J. Maas was taking the series. Love her or hate her, Sarah can write one hell of a story and is such an outstanding author. Although there were some parts of the book that went by a little slow, I think A Court of Mist and Fury was even better than ACOTAR in more ways than one. Sometimes I find that sequels may suffer "middle book syndrome" but ACOMAF amplifies that momentum knowing that Sarah is preparing to hurtle anticipation and suffering our way for the conclusion of the A Court of Thorns and Roses trilogy.
May 14, 2016
I was not a pet, not a doll, not an animal.
I was a survivor, and I was strong.
Oh damn. That was so unexpectedly good. And to think I almost didn't take a chance on this after not loving the first book...
So, here it is: I present to you 7 reasons why this book is a million times better than A Court of Thorns and Roses.
1) Less romance.
Oh, don't worry, there's romance. There's lusty, slow-build, flirtatious romance that somehow manages to be completely absent from the first book, even though romance was more central to the plot. But there's also so many other things here. It's a fantasy with romantic elements, not the other way around.
I always say I tend to become more invested in love stories when they're subplots and the book itself is not actually about the love story. I like it when the characters come together around and between all the rest of the action and drama. That's what's happening here. Because there is a whole shitstorm of other things going on - which, by the way, has led to better world-building, more exciting action and reveals, and a fascinating overarching story.
2) Feyre's growth and development.
And, in fact, the growth and development of many characters. Maas spends some quality time on character histories and backstory to strengthen our understanding of them. I absolutely love it when characters show realistic growth over time and I think that's especially important with Feyre here.
Feyre is not the character she was during A Court of Thorns and Roses. How could she be after the events of that book? Naturally, she has changed and found that her needs and aspirations have changed too. Once upon a time, back when she was weak and starving, she longed for a strong protector like Tamlin. Now she is strong, and she needs freedom to train her newfound strengths.
3) I hate Tamlin.
Honestly, if you happen to be a diehard Tamlin fan, I can see this book being a huge disappointment. Luckily for me, I pretty much despised him. He's never been anything but a pretty-faced control freak. I'm glad Feyre has seen that and rebelled against it.
I should warn you that Tamlin is absent for about 70-80% of this book. And that was just fine by me!
4) I love Rhysand.
I foresee the "oh no, it's a love triangle" comments rolling in, but I really don't think it is. I actually think this is a great book about growing up and discovering that you're a different person who longs for different things. I don't get the sense that Maas is trying to play out the Tamlin/Feyre/Rhysand angst; she is merely showing a young woman having a change of heart.
AND can we just talk about how much better Rhysand is. There's all the superficial stuff like he's exciting, flirty, dangerous and I love the story behind him. He's more fun than Tamlin and I like fun. His banter is wonderful. But I'm also talking about a more important level. Rhysand is, despite being the "bad boy", thoughtful and selfless. He doesn't want to stifle Feyre's strength and lock her away for her own protection - he wants her at his side, an equal, a partner in crime. And I love that so much. I like men who see value in strong women.
5) Less sexual.
I'm sorry, you horny readers, but I just need to put this out there: I really dislike Maas' sex scenes. Maybe Tamlin had something to do with it but, in general, I think they're overwritten and melodramatic. I also think she does a lot of "telling" you that it's hot, instead of "showing" how it is, which is a common writing mistake, but is far worse when in a sex scene. It's unconvincing.
And by "overwritten", I mean that she describes kissing as "branding", thrusts as "breaking", and sex moans as "prayers". Literally none of those things are sexy. She gets the flirtations and banter right - that bit is hotter than the actual sex - but I start to cringe when the clothes come off.
A brush of his tongue against the seam of my lips had me opening fully for him, and he swept in, claiming me, branding me.
Also, is it really necessary for the male characters to "growl in approval" during sex? Not just once - and arguably one growl is one too many - but several times. I'm supposed to be fanning myself with desire and all I can think about is Roy Orbison's Pretty Woman. Mercy. Rawr.
6) New characters.
A Court of Mist and Fury introduces many new characters, and the difference between this book and the first is that I found them all memorable, not just the main three characters. Maas has definitely not neglected her characterization and character detailing here. Everyone who comes in and out of the novel has an important purpose, is fleshed out with personality and history, and makes an impact.
My favourite was Amren, but I also loved Cassian and Azriel. Our brief introductions to the Bone Carver and the Weaver were highlights too.
7) The ending.
Take note: this is how to ensure your reader needs to get their hands on the next book. It's not a cliffhanger, but it is still EVIL. In the best possible way. I loved everything about it. It's the kind of emotional high that leaves you somewhere between wide-eyed horror and smiling gleefully. How will I last a whole year?
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March 20, 2021
Well, well, well. How the turns have tabled.
ACOTAR was, uh... not my favorite book in the world. But there are no words to describe how much better ACOMAF is.
All the problems I had with the first book were fixed. The story got bigger and more epic. The romance improved dramatically. And I fell in love with all the characters.
This review has spoilers for the first book. Spoilers for ACOMAF will be boxed off with siren emojis (🚨).
After the events Under the Mountain, Feyre is understandably traumatized. She saved Tamlin and the Spring Court at the cost of her own mental health. She had to kill innocent Fae to save him. And now she can't look at the color red without getting flashbacks. She wakes up every night to throw up.
And Tamlin isn't helping.
He's extremely protective of her after Amarantha killed her, even though Feyre was brought back stronger than ever as a High Fae. He doesn't allow her to talk to her family or to leave Spring Court land. He goes as far as to lock her in the house so she won't try to help the recovery effort in Prythian.
And that's when she breaks. She calls out for anyone to save her, and Rhysand hears her through the bond, taking her to the Night Court to ride out the storm. But along the way, she realizes that she is more than a figurehead. She has powers, given to her by the High Lords when her body was remade. This book is essentially Feyre's journey to finding and accepting herself with Rhysand's help.
Rhysand, High Lord of the Night Court, is not as he seems. In ACOTAR, we saw the facade he put on so Amarantha didn't get suspicious. But the real Rhys is a haunted, traumatized character who hates himself and feels worthless. He's exactly like Feyre. An excuse for Rhysand's past behavior is given, and it actually makes sense.
Their journey to discovering themselves is beautiful, touching, and heartbreaking. And while I do hate Tamlin for being so heartless to Feyre, I can see where he's coming from and I don't think we should treat him like a villain.
He's protective of Feyre because he saw her die, and he's absolutely terrified of that happening again. So he protects her the only way he knows how--by shutting her inside and not letting anyone see her. And it drives Feyre mad. I think there should have been a Tamlin redemption arc, and I really want to see Tamlin recovering from his PTSD as well. Because they're both suffering and they both deserve help. I don't want Tamlin to become the villain.
However, the signs of emotional abuse and possible physical abuse are clearly evident.
- Claws come out whenever Feyre confronts him
- Makes her PTSD worse by locking her inside, giving her flashbacks to Under the Mountain
- Doesn't take her opinions seriously
- Doesn't listen to her, or kisses her or something to make her shut up
- Gives her no responsibilities
The mental health rep was outstanding. Tamlin's rep was kind of harmful, but Feyre's was so raw and emotional and real. She didn't recover from her trauma because of love. She recovered because of friendship, and because people actually listened to her and took her seriously. Love was just a side effect.
It's really the little things that helped. Feyre comforting Rhys during his nightmares and realizing that they were alike. Mor wearing blue instead of her favorite color (red) when she first meets Feyre. The Court of Dreams giving Feyre time to recover when she has a panic attack.
The one thing I think this book needs is more diversity. Everyone was white except for this one guy that showed up for two chapters. The caucacity.
🚨🚨🚨SPOILERS AHEAD🚨🚨🚨
I did not like Rhysand's character after Feyre discovered the mating bond.
This may have something to do with the fact that I don't like the idea of "mates." They're essentially soulmates, if you're not familiar with SJM. I always felt uncomfortable with the overprotectiveness that comes with the term and the kind of animalistic ring to the word itself.
I actually really, really loved Rhys's character before he and Feyre were mates. He was so suave and intelligent and witty. That is, until the mating bond snapped into place. And then he was insanely overprotective and I just don't like that in a character.
🚨🚨🚨SPOILERS HAVE ENDED🚨🚨🚨
Another rap, because why not. Mild spoilers for ACOMAF.
Feyre Darling (Part 2)
Written by yours truly
Feyre was okay, then she got great
Rhys saved her on her wedding date
Tamlin locked her in and that's not cool
He treats her like a bargaining tool
The Night Court isn't really bad
Turns out Rhys is very sad
He went through some bad stuff; so did Mor
Mor is a queen that I adore
Tamlin's jealousy knows no bounds
Lucien's acting like a clown
The whole throne scene was very suspicious
Night Court food is extremely delicious
Chapter 55 had me wheezing
Soup for Feyre is very pleasing
What's Feyre painting? No one knows
Tamlin's reached an all-time low
I wish his mask would be back on
I can't stand his face for very long
Are Rhys's eyes violet or are they blue?
The most powerful High Lord got hit by a shoe
___
4.5 stars
My review of ACOTAR
My review of ACOWAR
ACOTAR was, uh... not my favorite book in the world. But there are no words to describe how much better ACOMAF is.
All the problems I had with the first book were fixed. The story got bigger and more epic. The romance improved dramatically. And I fell in love with all the characters.
This review has spoilers for the first book. Spoilers for ACOMAF will be boxed off with siren emojis (🚨).
After the events Under the Mountain, Feyre is understandably traumatized. She saved Tamlin and the Spring Court at the cost of her own mental health. She had to kill innocent Fae to save him. And now she can't look at the color red without getting flashbacks. She wakes up every night to throw up.
And Tamlin isn't helping.
He's extremely protective of her after Amarantha killed her, even though Feyre was brought back stronger than ever as a High Fae. He doesn't allow her to talk to her family or to leave Spring Court land. He goes as far as to lock her in the house so she won't try to help the recovery effort in Prythian.
And that's when she breaks. She calls out for anyone to save her, and Rhysand hears her through the bond, taking her to the Night Court to ride out the storm. But along the way, she realizes that she is more than a figurehead. She has powers, given to her by the High Lords when her body was remade. This book is essentially Feyre's journey to finding and accepting herself with Rhysand's help.
Rhysand, High Lord of the Night Court, is not as he seems. In ACOTAR, we saw the facade he put on so Amarantha didn't get suspicious. But the real Rhys is a haunted, traumatized character who hates himself and feels worthless. He's exactly like Feyre. An excuse for Rhysand's past behavior is given, and it actually makes sense.
Their journey to discovering themselves is beautiful, touching, and heartbreaking. And while I do hate Tamlin for being so heartless to Feyre, I can see where he's coming from and I don't think we should treat him like a villain.
He's protective of Feyre because he saw her die, and he's absolutely terrified of that happening again. So he protects her the only way he knows how--by shutting her inside and not letting anyone see her. And it drives Feyre mad. I think there should have been a Tamlin redemption arc, and I really want to see Tamlin recovering from his PTSD as well. Because they're both suffering and they both deserve help. I don't want Tamlin to become the villain.
However, the signs of emotional abuse and possible physical abuse are clearly evident.
- Claws come out whenever Feyre confronts him
- Makes her PTSD worse by locking her inside, giving her flashbacks to Under the Mountain
- Doesn't take her opinions seriously
- Doesn't listen to her, or kisses her or something to make her shut up
- Gives her no responsibilities
The mental health rep was outstanding. Tamlin's rep was kind of harmful, but Feyre's was so raw and emotional and real. She didn't recover from her trauma because of love. She recovered because of friendship, and because people actually listened to her and took her seriously. Love was just a side effect.
It's really the little things that helped. Feyre comforting Rhys during his nightmares and realizing that they were alike. Mor wearing blue instead of her favorite color (red) when she first meets Feyre. The Court of Dreams giving Feyre time to recover when she has a panic attack.
The one thing I think this book needs is more diversity. Everyone was white except for this one guy that showed up for two chapters. The caucacity.
🚨🚨🚨SPOILERS AHEAD🚨🚨🚨
I did not like Rhysand's character after Feyre discovered the mating bond.
This may have something to do with the fact that I don't like the idea of "mates." They're essentially soulmates, if you're not familiar with SJM. I always felt uncomfortable with the overprotectiveness that comes with the term and the kind of animalistic ring to the word itself.
I actually really, really loved Rhys's character before he and Feyre were mates. He was so suave and intelligent and witty. That is, until the mating bond snapped into place. And then he was insanely overprotective and I just don't like that in a character.
🚨🚨🚨SPOILERS HAVE ENDED🚨🚨🚨
Another rap, because why not. Mild spoilers for ACOMAF.
Feyre Darling (Part 2)
Written by yours truly
Feyre was okay, then she got great
Rhys saved her on her wedding date
Tamlin locked her in and that's not cool
He treats her like a bargaining tool
The Night Court isn't really bad
Turns out Rhys is very sad
He went through some bad stuff; so did Mor
Mor is a queen that I adore
Tamlin's jealousy knows no bounds
Lucien's acting like a clown
The whole throne scene was very suspicious
Night Court food is extremely delicious
Chapter 55 had me wheezing
Soup for Feyre is very pleasing
What's Feyre painting? No one knows
Tamlin's reached an all-time low
I wish his mask would be back on
I can't stand his face for very long
Are Rhys's eyes violet or are they blue?
The most powerful High Lord got hit by a shoe
___
4.5 stars
My review of ACOTAR
My review of ACOWAR
December 9, 2020
The Written Review
Seven of my favorite Bookish Villains in one BookTube Video!
Hole. Lee. Shh. This sequel is stunning.
I am broken and healing, but every piece of my heart belong to you.
I have not been this entertained and enthralled with a series since my high school Twilight craze.
And I realized—I realized how badly I'd been treated before, if my standards had become so low. If the freedom I'd been granted felt like a privilege and not an inherent right.How could so much happen in one book? How am I in love with every character she creates? Why am I wasting my time writing a review when I have book 3 on my end table just waiting for me? (come to me Mirrrrrandaaaaa. Readdddd meeee *deep breaths* I must be strong. I must tell the world so they can read and join us.)
I don't even know where to begin. I can't. I literally can't summarize over 620 pages into on cohesive review. There's too much that happened and (whew) I am just wholly overwhelmed with everything.
We last left Feyra as a broken shell of a girl - she survived trials and the hardships but her mind wasn't the same. Tamlin deals with this through a cuddle and coddle method but her fears won't go away.
Then, on the day of her wedding - someone saves her and despite her vehement disapproval - she realizes that she's in need of rescuing.
He thinks he'll be remembered as the villain in the story. But I forgot to tell him that the villain is usually the person who locks up the maiden and throws away the key. He was the one who let me out.I love how Sarah J. Maas is able to just spin together these inspiring and unforgettable characters.
Take the Suriel for example - he has what, maybe 10 pages of the entire book? I absolutely adore him. He's such a delightful gossiper that I'm desperately hoping for a reappearance in the third book.
Or the Weaver - such a mind-blowingly creepy character - who will (undoubtedly) be long-standing in my memory. She only appears once but that moment her face is revealed - wow. Just wow.
And the big reveal? I nearly died. (Fair warning. It's a big one - if you've read already - click it. If you haven't - STOP and pick up the book already)
Somebody had to say something - this ship needed to sail. Get it gurrrrrrl!
Okay. I've said enough. Book 3 is calling my name and I'm sure as hell not going to keep it waiting.
“To the people who look at the stars and wish, Rhys."The 2018 Popsugar Reading Challenge - A book about mental health.
Rhys clinked his glass against mine. “To the stars who listen— and the dreams that are answered.”
YouTube | Blog | Instagram | Twitter | Facebook | Snapchat @miranda_reads
December 31, 2023
7th reread.
The rereads keeps on hitting and hitting and hitting I’m never going to get bored of it.
Masterpiece of a book.
And it was the perfect way to end 2023.
------------------------------
6th reread.
Still perfect, still fuckin' glorious, still as magical as the first time.
------------------------------
4th reread and my heart feels full. FULL TO THE BRIM! It's overflowing with complete adoration for this book and series. I'm so damn thankful for its existence. 😭
------------------------------
[3rd reread! — 30/04/2017 - 08/05/2017]
------------------------------
[2nd reread! — 24/04/17 - 30/04/2017]
FIVE FUCKING GLORIOUS STARS!!! 🌟 *endlessly bows down to SJM*
------------------------------
Post-review emotions:
It's been 2 months since I last read this book and I still don't think I can write a comprehensive review, so don't expect something cohesive. I just want to fill this review up with the heart-eye emojis.
Minor spoilers will be included. You've been warned.
This book is incredible. This book is important. But before I get to that, this book was a massive, gigantic improvement on ACOTAR. They're not even the same two books. Or they are, but ACOMAF elevated this series to what it deserved and needed to be.
The world was epic, detailed and grand and I never wanted to leave. Everything about it clicked. I was absolutely transported into a world that I became obsessed and enthralled with. The pacing was beautifully slow, but well paced and the build up was great.
So, the story line picks up right where it left off, with Feyre and Tamlin being back in the Spring Court, and now having to suffer from PTSD and anxiety. I absolutely love how SJM explored this and showcased how they were both affected by what happened in the events of the last book.
Now, I was afraid that Tamlin's character was going to be completely bashed and written off since readers were hating on him and since I really liked his character in ACOTAR, that had me worried. But as I read on, the progression with his character made sense. As much as I loathed how he became, it's understandable and true to real life. His PTSD took on a different form. Sadly, that form became more emotionally abusive, manipulative and controlling. It was almost unbearable to even read. It was ugly but it needed to be there.
Feyre just lost herself. She didn't know who she was anymore. Her trauma unfolded in a way that changed her completely and led her to who she truly needed to become.
I absolutely loved how SJM incorporated those aspects into the story and how Feyre grew and continued to beautifully grow throughout the book. Facing setbacks, but ultimately, finding herself and her voice again. That 'human' element made it so relatable and warm. And the depth that SJM went into for both characters was impressive and you couldn't help but be invested and feel a strong sense of empathy.
But what I loved more than anything was that SJM showed what a healthy and unhealthy relationship is. What to stand and not to stand for, depending on the standards you've set for yourself and which ultimately, you decide for yourself. 'Twas fuckin feminist as fuck, whilst also incorporating what true friendship and a healthy and loving relationship can do for your worth. To ultimately put your wellbeing ahead of everything so you may recognise the signs of an imbalanced relationship.
And Rhysand? I need him in human form. Sometime soon, universe.
This book just has so many fantastical and realistic elements to it. I loved that we were able to take something a way from it, enjoy it, and I'm even happier that SJM decided to extend this series. I mean, more Rhysand, amirite?!
------------------------------
Original review:
Wow. Wow. Wow.
How the fuck does one even write a review for this?!
My mind has been obliterated.
I'm done.
The rereads keeps on hitting and hitting and hitting I’m never going to get bored of it.
Masterpiece of a book.
And it was the perfect way to end 2023.
------------------------------
6th reread.
Still perfect, still fuckin' glorious, still as magical as the first time.
------------------------------
4th reread and my heart feels full. FULL TO THE BRIM! It's overflowing with complete adoration for this book and series. I'm so damn thankful for its existence. 😭
------------------------------
[3rd reread! — 30/04/2017 - 08/05/2017]
------------------------------
[2nd reread! — 24/04/17 - 30/04/2017]
FIVE FUCKING GLORIOUS STARS!!! 🌟 *endlessly bows down to SJM*
------------------------------
Post-review emotions:
It's been 2 months since I last read this book and I still don't think I can write a comprehensive review, so don't expect something cohesive. I just want to fill this review up with the heart-eye emojis.
Minor spoilers will be included. You've been warned.
This book is incredible. This book is important. But before I get to that, this book was a massive, gigantic improvement on ACOTAR. They're not even the same two books. Or they are, but ACOMAF elevated this series to what it deserved and needed to be.
The world was epic, detailed and grand and I never wanted to leave. Everything about it clicked. I was absolutely transported into a world that I became obsessed and enthralled with. The pacing was beautifully slow, but well paced and the build up was great.
So, the story line picks up right where it left off, with Feyre and Tamlin being back in the Spring Court, and now having to suffer from PTSD and anxiety. I absolutely love how SJM explored this and showcased how they were both affected by what happened in the events of the last book.
Now, I was afraid that Tamlin's character was going to be completely bashed and written off since readers were hating on him and since I really liked his character in ACOTAR, that had me worried. But as I read on, the progression with his character made sense. As much as I loathed how he became, it's understandable and true to real life. His PTSD took on a different form. Sadly, that form became more emotionally abusive, manipulative and controlling. It was almost unbearable to even read. It was ugly but it needed to be there.
Feyre just lost herself. She didn't know who she was anymore. Her trauma unfolded in a way that changed her completely and led her to who she truly needed to become.
I absolutely loved how SJM incorporated those aspects into the story and how Feyre grew and continued to beautifully grow throughout the book. Facing setbacks, but ultimately, finding herself and her voice again. That 'human' element made it so relatable and warm. And the depth that SJM went into for both characters was impressive and you couldn't help but be invested and feel a strong sense of empathy.
But what I loved more than anything was that SJM showed what a healthy and unhealthy relationship is. What to stand and not to stand for, depending on the standards you've set for yourself and which ultimately, you decide for yourself. 'Twas fuckin feminist as fuck, whilst also incorporating what true friendship and a healthy and loving relationship can do for your worth. To ultimately put your wellbeing ahead of everything so you may recognise the signs of an imbalanced relationship.
And Rhysand? I need him in human form. Sometime soon, universe.
This book just has so many fantastical and realistic elements to it. I loved that we were able to take something a way from it, enjoy it, and I'm even happier that SJM decided to extend this series. I mean, more Rhysand, amirite?!
------------------------------
Original review:
Wow. Wow. Wow.
How the fuck does one even write a review for this?!
My mind has been obliterated.
I'm done.
July 5, 2016
well last year i made an acotar gif review so now here is my acomaf one because people kept asking
Where do I even begin?
feyre and her ptsd:
tamlin:
basically me,
tamlin’s actions:
second,
tamlin and feyre?? i’m done with this ship
rhysand:
the inner circle:
rhysand’s development and overall story arc
but also,
rhysand and feyre//feysand
but my FAVORITE PART IS FEYRE’S DEVELOPMENT
basically…
and i basically want her to destroy everyone and everything that has it coming in book 3 evil queen style
and the ending:
the wait for book 3 will be long and hard…how will i survive…idek
Where do I even begin?
feyre and her ptsd:
tamlin:
basically me,
tamlin’s actions:
second,
tamlin and feyre?? i’m done with this ship
rhysand:
the inner circle:
rhysand’s development and overall story arc
but also,
rhysand and feyre//feysand
but my FAVORITE PART IS FEYRE’S DEVELOPMENT
basically…
and i basically want her to destroy everyone and everything that has it coming in book 3 evil queen style
and the ending:
the wait for book 3 will be long and hard…how will i survive…idek
May 4, 2016
Fair notice: Lot of fangirling/feelings ahead.
This was basically me during the whole book:
And now I finished and I’m moping around, thinking over and over: PERFECT. BEAUTIFUL, HEARTBREAKING AND SO MUCH MORE.
This book makes me feel so many different things at once that I have to just stop and think until I can get my head straight.
Because ACOMAF has it all – Beautiful writing, twisty plot turns, SNARKY BANTER that made me laugh out loud, PURE FAE AWESOMENESS specially from the NIGHT COURT CREW, heart-pounding suspense, CRAZY ACTION SCENES, WOMEN’s EMPOWEREMENT, and a SEXY ROMANCE that me made blush and swoon SO HARD.
Because the story is not only about love, but also self-discovery. It’s about Feyre finding who she is and what she wants. We feel how broken she is, relentlessly blaming herself for the deaths of those ferries she killed and hunted by the horror she witnessed Under the Mountain.
"The power did not belong to the High Lords. Not any longer. Ot belonged to me - as I belinged only to me, as my furure was mine to decide, to forge"
Her character development is simply PHENOMENAL, because through her new adventures, she grew able to accept and embrace all that pain. She became stronger and more determined than ever, while she is still the same stubborn and brave character we love. And the least I can say is:
GO. FEYRE. CURSEBREAKER. DEFENDER OF THE RAINBOW AND . GO.
Because Rhys - did I mention how much I love his character? - broke my heart more than once as we got to know who truly he is. SJM made me feel his love, his losses, his pains and overall his passion for his people and Court.
"I stared at up at him, breathless, while he smiled. The smile the world would likely never see, the smile he's given up for the sake of his people, his lands. He said softly, "I am... very glad I met you, Feyre""
He remains Rhysand the mysterious dark high Lord, sexy as hell, playful and shameless flirt but we discover the sensitive Rhysand who feels too much and who is constantly doubting himself when it comes to his family and court.
"Rhys still knelt, wings drooping qcross the white sheets, heqd bowed, hos tattoos stark against is golden skin. A dark, fallen prince"
Because I want desperately to be part of the NIGHT COURT and ITS MAGIC. The world-building was unique and SJM draws an interesting world of political relationships, uneasy alliances, and different races.
Because the last few chapters left me jaw-dropping and the cliff-hanger at the end leaves us with so much potential for the next and final book. THANK YOU SJM FOR THIS BOOK.
Can I say one last thing? NEW SHIPS ARE SAILING, guys. YES TO NASSIAN AND MORIEL.
Verdict: SEXY, ROMANTIC, and INTENSE. I DARE . YOU TO STOP READING.
This was basically me during the whole book:
And now I finished and I’m moping around, thinking over and over: PERFECT. BEAUTIFUL, HEARTBREAKING AND SO MUCH MORE.
This book makes me feel so many different things at once that I have to just stop and think until I can get my head straight.
Because ACOMAF has it all – Beautiful writing, twisty plot turns, SNARKY BANTER that made me laugh out loud, PURE FAE AWESOMENESS specially from the NIGHT COURT CREW, heart-pounding suspense, CRAZY ACTION SCENES, WOMEN’s EMPOWEREMENT, and a SEXY ROMANCE that me made blush and swoon SO HARD.
Because the story is not only about love, but also self-discovery. It’s about Feyre finding who she is and what she wants. We feel how broken she is, relentlessly blaming herself for the deaths of those ferries she killed and hunted by the horror she witnessed Under the Mountain.
"The power did not belong to the High Lords. Not any longer. Ot belonged to me - as I belinged only to me, as my furure was mine to decide, to forge"
Her character development is simply PHENOMENAL, because through her new adventures, she grew able to accept and embrace all that pain. She became stronger and more determined than ever, while she is still the same stubborn and brave character we love. And the least I can say is:
GO. FEYRE. CURSEBREAKER. DEFENDER OF THE RAINBOW AND . GO.
Because Rhys - did I mention how much I love his character? - broke my heart more than once as we got to know who truly he is. SJM made me feel his love, his losses, his pains and overall his passion for his people and Court.
"I stared at up at him, breathless, while he smiled. The smile the world would likely never see, the smile he's given up for the sake of his people, his lands. He said softly, "I am... very glad I met you, Feyre""
He remains Rhysand the mysterious dark high Lord, sexy as hell, playful and shameless flirt but we discover the sensitive Rhysand who feels too much and who is constantly doubting himself when it comes to his family and court.
"Rhys still knelt, wings drooping qcross the white sheets, heqd bowed, hos tattoos stark against is golden skin. A dark, fallen prince"
Because I want desperately to be part of the NIGHT COURT and ITS MAGIC. The world-building was unique and SJM draws an interesting world of political relationships, uneasy alliances, and different races.
Because the last few chapters left me jaw-dropping and the cliff-hanger at the end leaves us with so much potential for the next and final book. THANK YOU SJM FOR THIS BOOK.
Can I say one last thing? NEW SHIPS ARE SAILING, guys. YES TO NASSIAN AND MORIEL.
Verdict: SEXY, ROMANTIC, and INTENSE. I DARE . YOU TO STOP READING.
January 31, 2024
First of all, this is marked as "High Fantasy"? You have got to be kidding me. I've skimmed through the entire book, i still have no clue why it’s so popular.
-A Court of blah blah is boring as hell.
-Characters are infuriating, and tiresome.
They possess no unique or remarkable qualities. Quite on the contrary actually.
I think we all agree, it's just plain wrong if a middle-aged man tries to get into a teenager's pants. But it's all hotness if you stretch the age gap from decades to centuries?
-Sex scenes were laughable AND cringeworthy. I call this erotica for children. Don't look at me, I'm not the one who wrote it.
-The writing was monotonous. I don't even want to think about this.
-Plot... was there any?
Whatever it was, i found it painfully predictable.
-Surely I can't be the only one who finds the term "mate" utterly ridiculous. I was dying laughing every time it was mentioned. Just couldn't take it seriously. Sorry, not sorry. There also seems to be a new trend in SJM's book. I wonder what goes on in her head. I bet something like this: hum my snowflake already have 12 love interests, how can I possibly add another to this never ending list? Oh, there is a clever idea! If he is her "mate" no one will dare question me. *pats her own back* I really am a genius!
-I called all of those "shocking" twists before the book was even out. Deep down i was hoping this would prove me wrong, but sadly i remain right.
This is the most overrated piece of crap I've ever attempted to read. I mean do people really find this appealing?
Oh, well, i tried.
UPDATES:
What's with everyone "snarling" all the time? Who has an ebook? Someone look up how many times the word "snarl" was used.
Someone actually checked, and it was used 50+ times!!
I mean, you do the math.
_______________________
Oh, give me a fucking break already. The main character be like, I live in a castle with my super hot fiancé, who LOVES THE SHIT OUT OF ME! Ugh!! And now I'm super beautiful and strong and shit. COULD MY LIFE GET ANY WORSE!?! Oh my god, she is so annoying. If I were Tamlin, I'd throw her ass back on the streets.
About Rhysand, he hasn't shown up yet. But if he sees any potential in this chick... I don't know man.
-A Court of blah blah is boring as hell.
-Characters are infuriating, and tiresome.
They possess no unique or remarkable qualities. Quite on the contrary actually.
I think we all agree, it's just plain wrong if a middle-aged man tries to get into a teenager's pants. But it's all hotness if you stretch the age gap from decades to centuries?
-Sex scenes were laughable AND cringeworthy. I call this erotica for children. Don't look at me, I'm not the one who wrote it.
-The writing was monotonous. I don't even want to think about this.
-Plot... was there any?
Whatever it was, i found it painfully predictable.
-Surely I can't be the only one who finds the term "mate" utterly ridiculous. I was dying laughing every time it was mentioned. Just couldn't take it seriously. Sorry, not sorry. There also seems to be a new trend in SJM's book. I wonder what goes on in her head. I bet something like this: hum my snowflake already have 12 love interests, how can I possibly add another to this never ending list? Oh, there is a clever idea! If he is her "mate" no one will dare question me. *pats her own back* I really am a genius!
-I called all of those "shocking" twists before the book was even out. Deep down i was hoping this would prove me wrong, but sadly i remain right.
This is the most overrated piece of crap I've ever attempted to read. I mean do people really find this appealing?
Oh, well, i tried.
UPDATES:
What's with everyone "snarling" all the time? Who has an ebook? Someone look up how many times the word "snarl" was used.
Someone actually checked, and it was used 50+ times!!
I mean, you do the math.
_______________________
Oh, give me a fucking break already. The main character be like, I live in a castle with my super hot fiancé, who LOVES THE SHIT OUT OF ME! Ugh!! And now I'm super beautiful and strong and shit. COULD MY LIFE GET ANY WORSE!?! Oh my god, she is so annoying. If I were Tamlin, I'd throw her ass back on the streets.
About Rhysand, he hasn't shown up yet. But if he sees any potential in this chick... I don't know man.
August 21, 2019
Update: The more I think about it, the more I realize I didn't enjoy anything about this book at all so it's more suited to be a 1 star.
---
This book was 600+ pages of slog to get through. I understand how people would consider the sequel to be an improvement since the main character shows more agency and certain tropes are reversed, but the development was very on-the-nose and came at the expense of turning other characters into cartoonish villains. The writing suffered a lot from telling and not showing, especially when it came to the dialogue, where it mostly consisted of the main character asking questions which would result in the other faeries answering via several pages of monologues in order to tell the exposition and characters’ background stories. This would be fine if I cared about anything in the book at all, but I don’t. People hyped this book up to be some trashy erotica, but there were only 2 sex scenes towards the end; otherwise, the book is just a very boring fantasy story.
---
This book was 600+ pages of slog to get through. I understand how people would consider the sequel to be an improvement since the main character shows more agency and certain tropes are reversed, but the development was very on-the-nose and came at the expense of turning other characters into cartoonish villains. The writing suffered a lot from telling and not showing, especially when it came to the dialogue, where it mostly consisted of the main character asking questions which would result in the other faeries answering via several pages of monologues in order to tell the exposition and characters’ background stories. This would be fine if I cared about anything in the book at all, but I don’t. People hyped this book up to be some trashy erotica, but there were only 2 sex scenes towards the end; otherwise, the book is just a very boring fantasy story.
May 13, 2016
WOW!! WOO HOOOO!!! Feyre is rock!! This book is rock!!!!
Bwahahahaha Feyre!! My girl, that's it! that's it! YESSS!! *dies* the next book! *dies!!* Rhys RHYS!! My... MINEEEE!!!! Love it! Romance! Night Court!! This Book!!! Yes YES! <3
Bwahahahaha Feyre!! My girl, that's it! that's it! YESSS!! *dies* the next book! *dies!!* Rhys RHYS!! My... MINEEEE!!!! Love it! Romance! Night Court!! This Book!!! Yes YES! <3
March 14, 2022
reread in 2022
i've typed and deleted this review for the past ten minutes. it's hard to review this book in a way that doesn't give too much credit to sarah j maas because i cannot emphasize enough how deeply troubled i am by her massive fame despite her problematic stances. all i can say is that i'm troubled by how much i enjoyed it.
--
Probably one of the most game-changing books I have ever read. My love for Rhysand might be usurp my love for Warner.
update january 2018:
nevermind lol
i've typed and deleted this review for the past ten minutes. it's hard to review this book in a way that doesn't give too much credit to sarah j maas because i cannot emphasize enough how deeply troubled i am by her massive fame despite her problematic stances. all i can say is that i'm troubled by how much i enjoyed it.
--
Probably one of the most game-changing books I have ever read. My love for Rhysand might be usurp my love for Warner.
update january 2018:
nevermind lol
June 18, 2019
reread this just so i could say with the upmost confidence and truth that chapter 54 is the greatest chapter ever written in the history of literature and no one can convince me otherwise.
________________________________
'to the people who look at the stars and wish… and to the stars who listen and the dreams that are answered.'
i wish rhysand was real. i wish rhysand was real. i wish rhysand was real. i wish rhysand was real.
c’mon stars, you better not let me down!
↠ 5 stars
________________________________
'to the people who look at the stars and wish… and to the stars who listen and the dreams that are answered.'
i wish rhysand was real. i wish rhysand was real. i wish rhysand was real. i wish rhysand was real.
c’mon stars, you better not let me down!
↠ 5 stars
May 10, 2016
This could, quite possibly be, one of my favorite books I've ever read. Truly an amazing, magical and ethereal read that I really didn't want to end!
In depth review coming soon to my YouTube channel!
In depth review coming soon to my YouTube channel!
June 9, 2023
This book was outstanding! I don't even understand how SJM was able to make this jump from book one. I mean, this book is leagues above the first in this series.
Damn.
Damn.
So. Good.
Damn.
Damn.
So. Good.
February 14, 2017
This took me centuries to finish because I had no time to read BUT now I NEED THE NEXT ONE
June 7, 2020
This is exactly how you develop a healthy relationship. This is why my bro Rhys is such an likeable character. He respected every wish and need Feyre had, every choice she made, gave her the space and the time she needed to heal, but at the same time he pushed her to grow and thrive. Feyre was always an equal to him.
We have no choice but to stan.
We have no choice but to stan.
May 3, 2021
*spoilers alert*
*Warning! Overuse of the word fuck (courtesy of Ms. Maas who uses it freely in this book). If you have problems with swearing, do not read this review*
Buddy read with my partners in disappointment: Katerina & Vera. Yay, we are freed from under the Mountain at last! And a special hug goes to my dear friend Simona (click on the names to see girls' reviews) You were right, dear, reading this book and, especially, discussing it is so much fun, indeed.
First of all, let me show to you a simple diagram, where you can see how the level of my engagement toward this book...uh, plummeted (actually I wanted to make the diagram more vertical, but, well, I am not good with graphic stuff) with every chapter until nothing was left for me to enjoy.
And let me tell you it was a rather bumpy and painful ride.
Now, let's clarify a few things:
- I am not a fan of ACOTAR. You can see in my review why.
- I had few expectations starting this book... ah hell, I had THE ONLY expectation - Rhysand.
- I do not hate this book, I dislike it. <----- I am close to hating it now.
This review is probably going to be a mess of thoughts with no structure, so I am sorry in advance if it's confusing, I just wanted to splash out my disappointment.
I liked Rhys in the previous book; I liked his darkness. I knew he was not evil and had his reasons to act as he did, and I wanted to know why. I wanted him and Feyre together. But turns out, me and Rhys are never going to happen, not because he acts OOC (out of character) - after finishing the book, I know that he didn't act OOC - I dislike his sugary nature; there's too much goodness in him, he is practically a Saint: hell, he is the Saint among Fae! “We are lucky to have him, Feyre.” I turned from the door. “I have known many High Lords,” Amren continued, studying her paper. “Cruel ones, cunning ones, weak ones, powerful ones. But never one that dreamed. Not as he does.”
“Dreams of what?” I breathed.
“Of peace. Of freedom. Of a world united, a world thriving. Of something better—for all of us.”
Of course, the other High Lords are stupid, they don't see the war coming, they are not interested in peace and prosperity, only Rhys does everything, and no one wants to listen to him. Poor baby. And let's not forget he is the strongest Fae out there.Here—here was the most powerful High Lord ever born.
The face of dreams and nightmares.
Only throughout the book, there was more than one situation where his "mighty" powers let him down. The question: why make him so powerful, impossibly so, if a little bit of vulnerability could've made him more real and likable, and suited the plot better. It's unnatural to be that good. He became a cardboard character with no backbone and lives only to serve Feyre, it seems.
But, fuck, it wasn't even my biggest issue. I hated how Maas compared Tam and Rhys in this book all the time. I never liked Tam, but, seriously, how much shit you can splash on one person before he turns into shit himself? I pity Tam and what Maas did to him. Time and again Maas shoves down our throats how Rhys excels Tam in everything: Tam didn't want to talk to Feyre about his nightmares. Rhys wanted to talk and share. Tam never held her hair while she vomited her guts out every night (she does it a lot, by the way, nauseatingly so). Rhys held her hair and cuddled her:He never woke when the nightmares dragged me from sleep; never woke when I vomited my guts up night after night. If he knew or heard, he said nothing about it.
Large, warm hands pulled my hair back a moment later.
“Breathe,” Rhys said. “Imagine them winking out like candles, one by one.”
I heaved into the toilet again, shuddering as light and heat crested and rushed out of me, and savored the empty, cool dark that pooled in their wake.
Tam locked her up in the house and forbade her to participate in any action. Rhys allowed her to do whatever she wanted. Tam didn't let her visit his rooms. Rhys invited her to his;With Tamlin, he’d kept his own rooms and slept in mine. And I supposed—I supposed it’d be the same.
I was almost to my bedroom door when Rhysand drawled from behind me, “We can use your room if you like, but … ” He was leaning against his open bedroom door. “Either your room or mine—but we’re sharing one from now on. Just tell me whether I should move my clothes or yours. If that’s all right with you.”
Tam is starving his people. Rhys's people prosper (he probably gives them food for free). Tam said there are no High Ladies in Prythian. Rhys made Feyre High Lady of Night Court. Comparisons were in EVERYTHING like the author couldn't stop shoving up our asses how Tam is lesser than Rhys in every aspect you can think of. And all this is solely for Feyre to make it easier to dump Tam and switch to Rhys.
Then there's Feyre and her love sex life. Feyre said that she fell for the first guy who showed kindness to her. I’m thinking that I was a lonely, hopeless person, and I might have fallen in love with the first thing that showed me a hint of kindness and safety.
But she can't - wouldn't - admit that it wasn't love that she felt for Tamlin. She, time and again, repeats it was love: she loved and sacrificed and then forgot the guy in two months' time. I would've respected her more if she admitted that it was lust. He buried his face in my neck and said onto my nape, as if the words would be absorbed by my body, as if he could only say it the way we’d always been good at communicating—skin to skin.
Why feel guilty about wanting another male? But no, Feyre is Mary Sue, she can't be the simple girl who had a change of heart. She loved but had serious reasons to fell out of love. Easy-peasy. Heck, I would've respected her more if she was an elite prostitute serving High Lords and choosing her next lover without shame or labeling lust as love. But she is a hypocrite and I hate hypocrites. It leads me to my next issue.
Feyre/Rhysand. Honestly, I don't believe Tam loved Feyre, no, they just had a comfy agreement: fuck but don't ask questions. Rhys, on the other hand, I believe he really loved her. What about her? No. I am still not convinced it was love from Feyre's side; lust - yes. Again, Feyre has a pattern: when Rhys was a bad guy, she hated him, but when he started doing good stuff for her, she realized how good he is, how kind (don't forget this all is in comparison with Tam like we are stupid kids and can't fathom the universal truth: Rhys is good, Tam is bad); Feyre doesn't "love" Rhys despite his flaws, she "loves" him because he has no flaws. Mr. Purrfect Perfection. And when she finally admits she wants him, she still acts like a hypocrite by saying, "But I loved Tam, deeply, I just don't any longer, because he treated me badly (I still don't get how splashing some paint on walls and locking her up once is abusive and the reason to easily fall out of love)." Did you love him indeed? I want to ask for the thousandth time. Feyre just says she loved him to find an excuse to fuck Rhys. And that leads us to their mating bond.
When Feyre finds out they are mates, she relaxes and thinks, "Fuck, what a relieve now that I know Tam and I was never going to happen, I don't have to feel guilty any longer for wanting to fuck Rhys". But before we cover the mating process, let's touch on the snotty conversation they had. If you still had any doubts before that Rhys is a Saint, believe now that he is. He is a miracle reborn. Attention: he was always kind to Feyre even when he was a dick toward her. He loved her already when they were under the Mountain, he knew they are mates, it wrecked him to hurt her; he was jealous of unworthy Tam, but Rhys was noble and didn't want to ruin Feyre's life. And that sloppy melodramatic speech of his continues for a whole chapter! "A Court of snort and boredom" as someone on GR called it once (sorry, I don't remember who said that or I'd hug this person). And again, Rhy's goodness is shoved down our throats *gags*
Mate.
My—mate.
This beautiful, strong, selfless male … Who had sacrificed and wrecked himself for his family, his people, and didn’t feel it was enough, that he wasn’t enough for anyone.
Also, as we are on the topic... did you notice how many times the phrase "my mate" is repeated in the book?! Hundreds of times! It's like a broken record player. I think if I hear "mate" one more time I may vomit like our Feyre-parrot does all the time.
They fuck. It's a disaster of epic proportions. Mountain quacked. MOUNTAIN. QUACKED. Seriously? What was that? Some kind of cheap shapeshifter porn?
Okay, When they are done, and I am done yawning, and we all move to civilized surroundings... wait, what the fuck is happening?! Rhys acts like an animal, he can't stop wanting to screw Feyre. Their mating bond makes them horny as fuck. He is so protective of his female. It's serious stuff among Fae folk, they could even kill if another male looks sideways at their females.“The … frenzy,” he said carefully, as if fearful the wrong word might send us both hurtling for each other before we could get sustenance into our bodies. “When a couple accepts the mating bond, it’s … overwhelming. Again, harkening back to the beasts we once were. Probably something about ensuring the female was impregnated.” My heart paused at that. “Some couples don’t leave the house for a week. Males get so volatile that it can be dangerous for them to be in public, anyway. I’ve seen males of reason and education shatter a room because another male looked too long in their mate’s direction, too soon after they’d been mated.”
Faeries - cunning, highly intelligent, powerful creatures act as if they are primitive animals from a cheap porn novel. After Rhys loses some steam fighting his buddy, he goes and fucks Feyre against the table. Everyone outside hears and knows. Wonders! How civilized they are indeed! Are we supposed to find these animal games romantic? Does it suppose to be a healthy relationship? And this book is labeled as YA and published by Bloomsbury Children's! It is NA (new adult) or erotic at the very least!
My next issue - the plot. First of all, let's not delude ourselves there's something more to the book apart from the romance mating. The plot is a crutch for the romance. Everything characters do, they do between Rhys's and Feyre's courting. And even these parts are poorly executed. Why, oh why, does Maas need to chew everything for us?! We are not stupid, we can get hints and would like to have some space left for the imagination. Show, don't tell. Show us through hints and glances, make us work for information; make us want to know! And the plot itself is primitive: go there, do that - monotone routine with no unexpected parts. 50% into the book and I have already known how everything would end.
I don't understand the half-orgy scene in the Court of Nightmares where Feyre and Rhys were almost fucking while everyone watched. It was a distraction while the others were stealing something important. It's so stupid I can't even. Maas couldn't think of something smart for distraction, rather than this disgusting humiliating scene?! The best part is the ending, though. Why would mortal queens conspire with the King of Hybern? Because they want immortality? They'll get their immortality but will be slaves. Would it be worth it? I don't think so. And why demonstrate the experiment with humans turning into Fae twice? Wasn't one time enough, when Feyre's sister Elain was made into Fae? Why make the same with Nesta? Because it serves Maas's idea of making Feyre's sisters immortal and finding mighty mates for them. It doesn't matter that the plot looks illogical and stretched - everything is ideal for Maas's grand plans. Tam is a traitor because he wants Feyre back. Why, he is a reborn villain now! How stupid it is to betray your country, because of the woman who doesn't want you? Why villains in this book so villainous? Why there's no depth to them? Good is good, bad is bad. End of conversation.
This book is 640 pages long. 640 pages of unnecessary descriptions of clothes, Rhys's goodness, Tam badness, Feyre's vomiting, mating, getting from point A to point B. 640 pages of parading High Lords to who I wouldn't trust to rule a swamp, let alone whole Kingdoms. Where's the smart and cunning in this book? And what kind of place is Night Court? Is it a mix of East and West and the modern world? Lace underwear, seriously?! Why does Night Court resemble so much human reality? Is this another point to Rhys's goodness? I have tons of questions toward this book, but I don't think getting my answers will somehow make it better. It's late for that.
I wouldn't say there wasn't anything good about the book for me. Compared to Rhys and Feyre I liked secondary characters, and Cass and Nesta as a couple attract me more than Rhys and Feyre ever will. It's sad I am not interested in learning more about them in the context of this series.
When I started this book, I practically had no expectations, and now I am angry. Angry at the book I wasn't even sure I would read in the first place! It's a new low. If this book was an erotic novel or NA, I would say, "Good, we had sexy time" - and move on. But this book pretends to be something different than it really is. Something more meaningful and deep, and it cruelly deceives people into thinking they are going to read a fantasy YA with a strong plotline and character development. They will be surprised to find an entirely different beast here. I am glad I am finally done with this series: no more, never again, burn in hell, book.
October 3, 2023
Re-read via audio!
September 3, 2022
"When you spend so long trapped in darkness, you find that the darkness begins to stare back."
Yall... this book... this book and its hype... this book and its hype and all it's spoilers; had me worried. On top of all that I feared that this book, all 600 plus pages, would suffer a massive case of second book syndrome. I'm so freaking happy to finally say that this book was AMAZING!
As I do with most my on-going series reviews I'm going to keep this review spoiler free. Since this book was broken up in several sections I'm going to basically break my review down by that.
A Court of Mist and Fury is the second book in the A Court of Throns and Roses series. This book starts off right where ACOTAR ended. Feyre, however, isn't recovering well from what happened to her under the mountain. It doesn't help that Tamlin basically avoids talking about it at all cost and he insist that she never leaves the estate. Being trapped in the house just wedding planning, with no friends, no family, and waiting for the moment when Rhys comes to claim her for their deal. Feyre is a broken girl the first part of this book. Not knowing where she stands or where she wants to be. So many things happen in the first half of this book, all leading up to Rhys finally coming to get her. That's all I'm really going to say about the first section of this book.
The next part of this book we finally get a lot of the answers we've been dying for! Answers about Rhys and why he is the way he is, we finally get to see the Night Court, we get to find out so much history on all the other courts, and oh so much more. We are also introduced to so many new side characters... Which easily became some of my all time favorites. Mor, Amren, Cassian, and Azriel brought everything to this story! I loved that Rhys decides to surround himself with the best of the best, say F the people who don't see females as badass, and puts two fierce girls as part of his inner circle. Cassian and Azriel, be still my beating heart. I loved these two. What interesting characters. Each with such a unique back story. This part of the book was all about build up and setting the stage for the ending. This is why it took me awhile to get through this book... but trust me get through it, its so wroth it.
The last part of this book... God give me strength! I don't know how I'm even going to get through the rest of this review. This section of the book was everything I ever wanted! There is action, suspense, romance, history, and twist. Everything that was building up from the first parts were perfect set up for this to be a big bang. There were also so many things that I thought were minor details in the first book that turned out to be huge reveals in this one. I was also so worried that the "love triangle" aspect still hanging in the air that it would end up ruining things for me. I can't not address it, and I swear it's not a spoiler, but all the romance in this is PERFECT. It's also why this book is so much bigger than the first, because it's so full of sexy fun times. This book is hot, HOT! I really don't get how this book is still categorized as Ya, I think this jumped right into NA. Seriously, so yummy! I have for sure gotten on the same ship as everyone else.
The ending. So much happens. It was so amazing. Shit hits the fan! I did not see it coming. I knew one thing that was going to happen, because you can't not see it, but the rest of it had me on the edge of my seat. I kept screaming "WTF" The whole time. Like really, what just happened?!?! Those last two chapters though. Those last two chapters were.... Lord! Oh and that last paragraph! That last sentence!!!! Lets just say it was the most epic!!!
I wish my review was a little more detailed, and sorry if it's all over the place, but that's how this book made me feel. A messy, disorganized, and a hot mess. I can't wait till book three.
Yall... this book... this book and its hype... this book and its hype and all it's spoilers; had me worried. On top of all that I feared that this book, all 600 plus pages, would suffer a massive case of second book syndrome. I'm so freaking happy to finally say that this book was AMAZING!
As I do with most my on-going series reviews I'm going to keep this review spoiler free. Since this book was broken up in several sections I'm going to basically break my review down by that.
A Court of Mist and Fury is the second book in the A Court of Throns and Roses series. This book starts off right where ACOTAR ended. Feyre, however, isn't recovering well from what happened to her under the mountain. It doesn't help that Tamlin basically avoids talking about it at all cost and he insist that she never leaves the estate. Being trapped in the house just wedding planning, with no friends, no family, and waiting for the moment when Rhys comes to claim her for their deal. Feyre is a broken girl the first part of this book. Not knowing where she stands or where she wants to be. So many things happen in the first half of this book, all leading up to Rhys finally coming to get her. That's all I'm really going to say about the first section of this book.
The next part of this book we finally get a lot of the answers we've been dying for! Answers about Rhys and why he is the way he is, we finally get to see the Night Court, we get to find out so much history on all the other courts, and oh so much more. We are also introduced to so many new side characters... Which easily became some of my all time favorites. Mor, Amren, Cassian, and Azriel brought everything to this story! I loved that Rhys decides to surround himself with the best of the best, say F the people who don't see females as badass, and puts two fierce girls as part of his inner circle. Cassian and Azriel, be still my beating heart. I loved these two. What interesting characters. Each with such a unique back story. This part of the book was all about build up and setting the stage for the ending. This is why it took me awhile to get through this book... but trust me get through it, its so wroth it.
The last part of this book... God give me strength! I don't know how I'm even going to get through the rest of this review. This section of the book was everything I ever wanted! There is action, suspense, romance, history, and twist. Everything that was building up from the first parts were perfect set up for this to be a big bang. There were also so many things that I thought were minor details in the first book that turned out to be huge reveals in this one. I was also so worried that the "love triangle" aspect still hanging in the air that it would end up ruining things for me. I can't not address it, and I swear it's not a spoiler, but all the romance in this is PERFECT. It's also why this book is so much bigger than the first, because it's so full of sexy fun times. This book is hot, HOT! I really don't get how this book is still categorized as Ya, I think this jumped right into NA. Seriously, so yummy! I have for sure gotten on the same ship as everyone else.
The ending. So much happens. It was so amazing. Shit hits the fan! I did not see it coming. I knew one thing that was going to happen, because you can't not see it, but the rest of it had me on the edge of my seat. I kept screaming "WTF" The whole time. Like really, what just happened?!?! Those last two chapters though. Those last two chapters were.... Lord! Oh and that last paragraph! That last sentence!!!! Lets just say it was the most epic!!!
I wish my review was a little more detailed, and sorry if it's all over the place, but that's how this book made me feel. A messy, disorganized, and a hot mess. I can't wait till book three.
August 9, 2021
MIND=BLOWN
My hysteria is threatening to break me and I wonder if it is possible to die of elation. I'm frozen in 35646 layers of disbelief and I'm trying hard not to explode from the sheer impossibility of this flawless story I've read. I read, read, read, and read until I reached the Acknowledgements page and knew for sure that I finished the best book I've read in like... an eternity.
The story is simple, really. It picks up right where it left off in A Court of Thorns and Roses.
Feyre is living in the Summer court and is going to marry Tamlin. But things have changed since she has turned into High Fae, an immortal body but with a human heart: She has to stay by Tamlin's side and be his trophy, left with nothing to do but paint and plan her wedding with Tamlin, High Lord of the Spring Court. As she grapples with the horrors she's had to endure Under The Mountain against Amarantha, she also awaits Rhysand, with whom she struck a bargain to visit his Night Court for one week every month.
A Court of Mist and Fury was magical. Angsty. And Damnably beautiful.
The plot was so tangible, I didn't want to get it over with. The romance was so tantalizing, I felt my heart pound frantically in my chest. The ambience was so alluring , I struggled to take my eyes off it. And the twists were so unexpected , I was forced to gawk and stare at the ceiling, due to relief or stupefaction, I don't know. I was thoroughly enchanted in a world filled with intrigue, magic, lies, and secrets and I feel weighed down by the depth of it.
Sarah J. Maas's writing is the literal definition of magnificent. She creates a world so captivating and lets you drown in waves of wonder and intrigue, enigma and appeal. Her words are powerful, heavy with conviction, articulate, and relevant. I can't thank her enough for delivering this masterpiece and much more. And for introducing me to two of the best characters I can't stop fangirling over.
Rhysand. High Lord of the Night Court; Beautiful, brutal, and powerful. He appears to be cold and arrogant initially, occasionally cracking jokes about his beauty. He is surrounded by an aura of sensuality and vivacity and he handles even the direst of situations with grace, casually yet courteously. He is as dangerous and ferocious as he is subtle and generous. He hides behind a mask of savagery and manipulation, trickery and deception but beneath the mask, he's kind and humble, a High Lord who cares for his people more than he deigns to express.
Feyre. Our strong protagonist who develops from being oblivious in the first book to someone who didn't need to be coddled, pampered or protected, who didn't crave stability and comfort , or luxury and easiness . She hates being judged based on her human life. She can be compassionate, affectionate, and loving, but she can also be vicious, seductive, and cunning as she sees fit. Extremely short-tempered and sometimes provocative, she makes for her shortcomings by being powerful, warm, and unbelievably loyal (Ironic, as she keeps calling herself a traitor )
I really liked Tamlin in A Court of Thorns and Roses I thought I'd be devastated by not seeing him with Feyre. But the author made it easy for me to dislike him as he wanted to lock Feyre up, keep her as his trophy and suffocate her by being overprotective.
The reason why Feyre had been hopelessly in love with Tamlin could've been because of the fact that she was lonely and desired company and so fell for the first person who showed her a hint of kindness and offered commiseration and safety.
Whereas Rhysand was different, he gave Feyre the freedom to choose what she desired and believed in her capabilities. He soundlessly, silently, fought for her. A perfect gentleman.
The story also shows us how much our first impression of people/ things could be wrong in the form of role reversals in the male protagonist. Rhysand, who I once perceived as a manipulator, liar, and a "shameless flirt" unveils his identity mask and shows how considerate and sacrificing he can be for the people he cares about. I'm glad I could see a whole new depth to his character, that despite being hard as a shell on the outside, he too had moments of weakness wherein he needed consolation.
The book was in support of feminism and equality .
It also shows how one can go to any extent to protect their friends and loved ones whilst also exemplifying that you can choose your family. Cassian, Azriel, Amren, and Mor were amazing support systems and I'd give anything to meet them in real life.
I could keep going on and on about it, but I think I will peace out for now. 😁✌️
My hysteria is threatening to break me and I wonder if it is possible to die of elation. I'm frozen in 35646 layers of disbelief and I'm trying hard not to explode from the sheer impossibility of this flawless story I've read. I read, read, read, and read until I reached the Acknowledgements page and knew for sure that I finished the best book I've read in like... an eternity.
The story is simple, really. It picks up right where it left off in A Court of Thorns and Roses.
Feyre is living in the Summer court and is going to marry Tamlin. But things have changed since she has turned into High Fae, an immortal body but with a human heart: She has to stay by Tamlin's side and be his trophy, left with nothing to do but paint and plan her wedding with Tamlin, High Lord of the Spring Court. As she grapples with the horrors she's had to endure Under The Mountain against Amarantha, she also awaits Rhysand, with whom she struck a bargain to visit his Night Court for one week every month.
A Court of Mist and Fury was magical. Angsty. And Damnably beautiful.
The plot was so tangible, I didn't want to get it over with. The romance was so tantalizing, I felt my heart pound frantically in my chest. The ambience was so alluring , I struggled to take my eyes off it. And the twists were so unexpected , I was forced to gawk and stare at the ceiling, due to relief or stupefaction, I don't know. I was thoroughly enchanted in a world filled with intrigue, magic, lies, and secrets and I feel weighed down by the depth of it.
Sarah J. Maas's writing is the literal definition of magnificent. She creates a world so captivating and lets you drown in waves of wonder and intrigue, enigma and appeal. Her words are powerful, heavy with conviction, articulate, and relevant. I can't thank her enough for delivering this masterpiece and much more. And for introducing me to two of the best characters I can't stop fangirling over.
Rhysand. High Lord of the Night Court; Beautiful, brutal, and powerful. He appears to be cold and arrogant initially, occasionally cracking jokes about his beauty. He is surrounded by an aura of sensuality and vivacity and he handles even the direst of situations with grace, casually yet courteously. He is as dangerous and ferocious as he is subtle and generous. He hides behind a mask of savagery and manipulation, trickery and deception but beneath the mask, he's kind and humble, a High Lord who cares for his people more than he deigns to express.
Feyre. Our strong protagonist who develops from being oblivious in the first book to someone who didn't need to be coddled, pampered or protected, who didn't crave stability and comfort , or luxury and easiness . She hates being judged based on her human life. She can be compassionate, affectionate, and loving, but she can also be vicious, seductive, and cunning as she sees fit. Extremely short-tempered and sometimes provocative, she makes for her shortcomings by being powerful, warm, and unbelievably loyal (Ironic, as she keeps calling herself a traitor )
I really liked Tamlin in A Court of Thorns and Roses I thought I'd be devastated by not seeing him with Feyre. But the author made it easy for me to dislike him as he wanted to lock Feyre up, keep her as his trophy and suffocate her by being overprotective.
"Love was balm as much as it was poison"
The reason why Feyre had been hopelessly in love with Tamlin could've been because of the fact that she was lonely and desired company and so fell for the first person who showed her a hint of kindness and offered commiseration and safety.
Whereas Rhysand was different, he gave Feyre the freedom to choose what she desired and believed in her capabilities. He soundlessly, silently, fought for her. A perfect gentleman.
"He locked you up because he knew- the bastard knew what treasure you are. That you are worth more than land and jewels.
The story also shows us how much our first impression of people/ things could be wrong in the form of role reversals in the male protagonist. Rhysand, who I once perceived as a manipulator, liar, and a "shameless flirt" unveils his identity mask and shows how considerate and sacrificing he can be for the people he cares about. I'm glad I could see a whole new depth to his character, that despite being hard as a shell on the outside, he too had moments of weakness wherein he needed consolation.
The book was in support of feminism and equality .
It also shows how one can go to any extent to protect their friends and loved ones whilst also exemplifying that you can choose your family. Cassian, Azriel, Amren, and Mor were amazing support systems and I'd give anything to meet them in real life.
I could keep going on and on about it, but I think I will peace out for now. 😁✌️
December 29, 2023
I don’t even know what to say. I’m in a frenzy. This is the strongest attachment I’ve had to a series since Twilight. I’m so addicted to you know who and I hate you know who with every fiber of my being. I feel so blessed to have three more books waiting for me. I will savor them. I worship the ground Sarah J. Mass walks on. I’m embarrassed that I didn’t see the genius in the first book. I’d love to re-read ACOTAR knowing what I know now. I know I’m late to the game but I can’t and won’t shut up about this.
August 10, 2023
RHYSAND PLS
October 31, 2020
Buckle up ladies and gents and those outside these labels: Mary will have words with you (and she will stop referring to herself in third person).
A Court of Mist and Fury is a million steps up from A Court of Thorns and Roses for a thousand reasons and one. The most prominent one though, the one that glows with the fire of a thousand suns, is how—even as a cheasy, romantic fairytale—this book is more painful and human due to themes of trauma and mental health than both its predecessor and its inspirations: Beauty and the Beast turned Hades and Persephone.
With an expanded yet still fairytalish (meaning less defined rules) world, emotional, dramatic, flowing, thread-of-thought writing, and new, captivating, and steal-your-heart-stab-you-in-the-dark characters and dynamics on top of themes of depression, abuse, and post traumatic stress disorder, ACoMaF really has much to talk about.
Shall we begin to dig in?
Mental Health: How We Can Inflict Pain While in Pain
➥ PTSD, Depression, and (Possibly) BPD with Feyre & Tamlin
One of the first things people criticise A Court of Mist and Fury for is Tamlin—some say his actions came out of the blue, while others agree that he was acting according to character but SJM made him an unnecessary villain when he could’ve been given support to heal. So before I discuss Feyre’s mental health issues and their representation, I’m going to address those two groups of people.
➤ Do Tamlin’s choices come out of the blue?
The answer is a simple no, and here’s why: Even in A Court of Thorns and Roses, Tamlin was a controling, aggressive, uncommunicative person who did not know how to truly listen or speak, how to be considerate and open. This makes sense because not only was he not taught any of those traits, he also experienced trauma and abuse growing up.
He is extremely emotional and has no idea how to control those emotions, all while having learned to ignore his feelings because only ruthlessness equals survival and efficiency. This is unhealthy for a myriad of reasons, least of which is the fact that, no matter how willfully and insistently you turn away from your emotions, they never go away—closing your eyes so you might not see them doesn’t mean they aren’t there, it just means they’ll pounce on you in your greatest moments of weakness and you simply won’t see them coming.
Tamlin is lonely and broken and living behind a wall of mistrust and fear, not knowing how to tear down that wall nor even acknowledging its existence. I have a couple of friends who struggle with Borderline Personality Disorder and, while I don’t want to diagnose anyone here, he actually reminded me of one of them. I will elaborate, bear with me.
➤ Is Tamlin’s arc unnecessary and unrealistic?
That is a straight up no, because of the aforementioned friend. Much like my friend, Tamlin neither wants to acknowledge that he needs help, nor does he want to be vulnerable enough to accept anyone’s help. Do I think he is broken beyond repair? No, no one is broken beyond repair. Our scars, however ugly, are what make us beautiful, and the cracks in a broken glass can be filled with gold, healed to become something new. But do I think he could’ve healed in this book with the help of Feyre and Lucien? Again no, because of two reasons.
❶ I’ve personally grappled with mental illnesses for years and have friends both online and offline suffering who I’ve walked this path with, dragged back from the edge of suicide, and given help and solutions to when they hurt themselves and others so they could heal. I’ve also made a very, very unhealthy choice again and again and put aside my healing to be everyone’s full-time therapist. Anyone who was in pain? I would roll up my sleeves, telling them to come seek me out whenever and for whatever, and put all my energy in the ring when they did.
Now, I’ve learned something from my online big sis Cath: You are no one’s therapist (unless that’s your job ofc). And Feyre did what she could to give Tamlin the space and support he needed, but she was also suffering herself and it’s cruel and infuriating to expect her to completely forget about her own pain and force him to heal when he isn’t truly accepting or seeking help. Which is the 2nd reason.
❷ It’s one thing to support and help a friend towards healing, and it’s another thing to heal them. You can’t save a drowning man who refuses to take your hand. You could jump in, grab them, and swim to shore—but there’s a high chance they would drown you, too, in their attempt to get you off them. Again, I have done this, and it’s wrong because not only was I taking away their choice and saying that I know better (which I don’t, it’s their life) I was also risking them drowning me—I don’t much care about this, let me drown who cares, but it’s not healthy behaviour.
Still, I’ve done it, put life and breath and soul into showing those drowning friends why they should seek a hand to stop their drowning and learn to swim, and I’ve failed as many times as I’ve succeeded. That friend I mentioned Tamlin reminded me of? She’s one where I failed, and all I could do was watch her in pain as she lashed out and inflicted pain on others, and try my best to do damage control with her victims—because they were victims, as Feyre clearly is one. A victim of abuse rooted in ignored, festering pain, twisting a caring, passionate soul into a source of suffering.
Now that that is out of the way, how about Feyre’s struggles?
➤ Above all else, this book is a love letter to healing. I can’t personally vouch for the PTSD (which I found accurately written based on what I’d learned of it from others’ experiences), but I can tell you about depression. And I can tell you how heartwrenchingly Feyre’s suffocating blanket of silence that cruelly embraced her and hauled her beneath the sea resonated with me. I will leave the exploration and healing to Sarah J. Maas. Thank you.
Friendship: Why We Need Support to Heal
➥ Rhys, Mor, Amren, Azriel, and Cass Vs. Lucien
I think the second best thing about ACoMaF, beside its rep, was its characters and their dynamics. More specifically, the Court of Dreams. I find that name too cheesy to swallow so from now on I’m referring to them as the Gang #sorrynotsorry.
✦ Rhysand might not be my number one (or two, or even three) character in this series, but that does not mean I don’t love him, it just shows how many amazing characters grace the pages of this book—because I do love him. He might be arrogant and teasing and always seem in control, but underlying that facade is a deeply rooted insecurity and self doubt. They do say the most seemingly arrogant people in the room are the least confident ones (I mean, I hope they do and I didn’t just creates a saying out of the blue).
Confidence means believing in yourself even as you mess up, and Rhys might be arrogant but he’s not confident—his every mistake and misstep are worms he lets devour him from the inside out. And he does make mistakes, because he is not perfect, just as no one is; he is a person who, in his drive to protect and give and give and give from himself until he is bled dry, tends to occasionaly refuse to share what he knows and others should be informed of. What’s most important though is how he accepts, apologises, and learns from his mistakes because what he values most is freedom of individuals to choose the path they want to walk.
✦ Amren with her no-nonsense, practical, I-will-sooner-kill-you-than-coddle-you attitude is my real number one, because this unyielding Tiny Ancient One would tear the world to pieces to fight for what she holds dear—though you wouldn’t guess what it is she values with her general cutting reply to everything around her.
✦ Mor takes the spot as my 2nd fave right next to Azriel ; where one is fire and boldness and charisma, the other is ice and silence and an enigma, and both will have your back and front and sides all the way to the threshold of death—and beyond. And then there is baby Cassian with his insufferable arrogance and heart of marshmallows that will push you and be there to catch you if you fall. (I need to add that I will take my hope for a polyamorous relationship between these three with their complicated, enchanting dynamic to the grave and hold it close through whatever comes next).
✦ But why are they so important to Feyre’s healing? Because you can’t heal alone. I’ve tried it, and the road is rockier and more precarious without a shoulder to lean on and a hand to hold. I’m still learning to not cringe at taking a hand to walk the path (and failing, not gonna lie) but I nevertheless appreciate how breathtakingly SJM writes these journeys of recovery every. damn. time. You need friends to heal, and you need to help friends to heal.
✦ That’s where Lucien fails. I love him and his loyal heart, but sometimes you need to check your loyalty—sometimes the people and values you are holding on to are breaking something rare and fragile. That’s the precise issue with Lucien: He does not understand the depth of Feyre’s pain, if he had, he would’ve fought without backing down, getting up each time he hit the ground, because my baby is not a coward. Alas, people don’t ever really grasp another’s invisible pain.
Romance: Where Love Can Bloom (SPOILER ALERT)
➥ Instalove or Slow Burn, featuring Feysand
Rhysand and Feyre are not my fave couple as their dynamic is too sweet and romantic for me personally. However, it takes nothing away from how you feel them fall in love, like a flower blooming and a freezing pair of hands finding colour next to the miracle of fire, or like the warmth and light of a familiar embrace you fall into in a world of cold, dark unknowns.
Some readers accuse the mating bond of being instalove in the case of Rhysand falling for Feyre. Did they read chapter 54? Rhysand fell for her as she was a human surviving Under the Mountain, and everything he did before that was him trying to save an innocent girl he suspected of being his mate but did not specifically feel anything towards.
In the end, mayhaps this book is too romantic for me, the aromantic with a heart of ice, to ever be my #1 book of all time, it nonetheless makes a comfortable and cozy den in its corner because A Court of Mist and Fury is a fairytale that takes the dashing princes and magic, and replaces it with human suffering and healing.
Companions
Book series playlist: Spotify URL
Books in series:
➴ A Court of Thorns and Roses (ACoTaR, #1) ★★★✯☆
➴ A Court of Mist and Fury (ACoTaR, #2) ★★★★★
➴ A Court of Wings and Ruin (ACoTaR, #3) ★★★★☆
➴ A Court of Frost and Starlight (ACoTaR, #3.1) ★★★☆☆
➴ Untitled Novella (ACoTaR, #3.2) ☆☆☆☆☆
➴ A Court of Silver Flames (ACoTaR, #4) ☆☆☆☆☆
“When you spend so long trapped in darkness, you find that the darkness begins to stare back.”
A Court of Mist and Fury is a million steps up from A Court of Thorns and Roses for a thousand reasons and one. The most prominent one though, the one that glows with the fire of a thousand suns, is how—even as a cheasy, romantic fairytale—this book is more painful and human due to themes of trauma and mental health than both its predecessor and its inspirations: Beauty and the Beast turned Hades and Persephone.
“To the stars who listen—and the dreams that are answered.”
With an expanded yet still fairytalish (meaning less defined rules) world, emotional, dramatic, flowing, thread-of-thought writing, and new, captivating, and steal-your-heart-stab-you-in-the-dark characters and dynamics on top of themes of depression, abuse, and post traumatic stress disorder, ACoMaF really has much to talk about.
Shall we begin to dig in?
“[I knew that] I would never be a gentle grower of things, or someone who burned like fire—but that I would be quiet and enduring and as faceted as the night. That I would have beauty, for those who knew where to look, and if people didn’t bother to look, but to only fear it...then I didn’t particularly care for them, anyway.”
Mental Health: How We Can Inflict Pain While in Pain
➥ PTSD, Depression, and (Possibly) BPD with Feyre & Tamlin
One of the first things people criticise A Court of Mist and Fury for is Tamlin—some say his actions came out of the blue, while others agree that he was acting according to character but SJM made him an unnecessary villain when he could’ve been given support to heal. So before I discuss Feyre’s mental health issues and their representation, I’m going to address those two groups of people.
“I am drowning. And the more you do this...you might as well be shoving my head under the water.”
➤ Do Tamlin’s choices come out of the blue?
The answer is a simple no, and here’s why: Even in A Court of Thorns and Roses, Tamlin was a controling, aggressive, uncommunicative person who did not know how to truly listen or speak, how to be considerate and open. This makes sense because not only was he not taught any of those traits, he also experienced trauma and abuse growing up.
He is extremely emotional and has no idea how to control those emotions, all while having learned to ignore his feelings because only ruthlessness equals survival and efficiency. This is unhealthy for a myriad of reasons, least of which is the fact that, no matter how willfully and insistently you turn away from your emotions, they never go away—closing your eyes so you might not see them doesn’t mean they aren’t there, it just means they’ll pounce on you in your greatest moments of weakness and you simply won’t see them coming.
“The issue isn’t whether he loved you, it’s how much. Too much. Love can be a poison.”
Tamlin is lonely and broken and living behind a wall of mistrust and fear, not knowing how to tear down that wall nor even acknowledging its existence. I have a couple of friends who struggle with Borderline Personality Disorder and, while I don’t want to diagnose anyone here, he actually reminded me of one of them. I will elaborate, bear with me.
➤ Is Tamlin’s arc unnecessary and unrealistic?
That is a straight up no, because of the aforementioned friend. Much like my friend, Tamlin neither wants to acknowledge that he needs help, nor does he want to be vulnerable enough to accept anyone’s help. Do I think he is broken beyond repair? No, no one is broken beyond repair. Our scars, however ugly, are what make us beautiful, and the cracks in a broken glass can be filled with gold, healed to become something new. But do I think he could’ve healed in this book with the help of Feyre and Lucien? Again no, because of two reasons.
“There is the darkness that frightens, the darkness that soothes, the darkness that is restful.” I pictured each. “There is the darkness of lovers, and the darkness of assassins. It becomes what the bearer wishes it to be, needs it to be. It is not wholly bad or good.”
❶ I’ve personally grappled with mental illnesses for years and have friends both online and offline suffering who I’ve walked this path with, dragged back from the edge of suicide, and given help and solutions to when they hurt themselves and others so they could heal. I’ve also made a very, very unhealthy choice again and again and put aside my healing to be everyone’s full-time therapist. Anyone who was in pain? I would roll up my sleeves, telling them to come seek me out whenever and for whatever, and put all my energy in the ring when they did.
Now, I’ve learned something from my online big sis Cath: You are no one’s therapist (unless that’s your job ofc). And Feyre did what she could to give Tamlin the space and support he needed, but she was also suffering herself and it’s cruel and infuriating to expect her to completely forget about her own pain and force him to heal when he isn’t truly accepting or seeking help. Which is the 2nd reason.
“Sweep it under the rug, like everything else.”
❷ It’s one thing to support and help a friend towards healing, and it’s another thing to heal them. You can’t save a drowning man who refuses to take your hand. You could jump in, grab them, and swim to shore—but there’s a high chance they would drown you, too, in their attempt to get you off them. Again, I have done this, and it’s wrong because not only was I taking away their choice and saying that I know better (which I don’t, it’s their life) I was also risking them drowning me—I don’t much care about this, let me drown who cares, but it’s not healthy behaviour.
Still, I’ve done it, put life and breath and soul into showing those drowning friends why they should seek a hand to stop their drowning and learn to swim, and I’ve failed as many times as I’ve succeeded. That friend I mentioned Tamlin reminded me of? She’s one where I failed, and all I could do was watch her in pain as she lashed out and inflicted pain on others, and try my best to do damage control with her victims—because they were victims, as Feyre clearly is one. A victim of abuse rooted in ignored, festering pain, twisting a caring, passionate soul into a source of suffering.
“There are good days and hard days for me—even now. Don’t let the hard days win.”
Now that that is out of the way, how about Feyre’s struggles?
➤ Above all else, this book is a love letter to healing. I can’t personally vouch for the PTSD (which I found accurately written based on what I’d learned of it from others’ experiences), but I can tell you about depression. And I can tell you how heartwrenchingly Feyre’s suffocating blanket of silence that cruelly embraced her and hauled her beneath the sea resonated with me. I will leave the exploration and healing to Sarah J. Maas. Thank you.
Friendship: Why We Need Support to Heal
➥ Rhys, Mor, Amren, Azriel, and Cass Vs. Lucien
I think the second best thing about ACoMaF, beside its rep, was its characters and their dynamics. More specifically, the Court of Dreams. I find that name too cheesy to swallow so from now on I’m referring to them as the Gang #sorrynotsorry.
“I have so many things to deal with that I’m sometimes tempted to unleash my power across the world and wipe the board clean. Just to buy me some damned peace.” #relatable
✦ Rhysand might not be my number one (or two, or even three) character in this series, but that does not mean I don’t love him, it just shows how many amazing characters grace the pages of this book—because I do love him. He might be arrogant and teasing and always seem in control, but underlying that facade is a deeply rooted insecurity and self doubt. They do say the most seemingly arrogant people in the room are the least confident ones (I mean, I hope they do and I didn’t just creates a saying out of the blue).
Confidence means believing in yourself even as you mess up, and Rhys might be arrogant but he’s not confident—his every mistake and misstep are worms he lets devour him from the inside out. And he does make mistakes, because he is not perfect, just as no one is; he is a person who, in his drive to protect and give and give and give from himself until he is bled dry, tends to occasionaly refuse to share what he knows and others should be informed of. What’s most important though is how he accepts, apologises, and learns from his mistakes because what he values most is freedom of individuals to choose the path they want to walk.
“You remain your own person. You decide your fate—your choices. Not me. You chose yesterday. You choose every day. Forever.”
✦ Amren with her no-nonsense, practical, I-will-sooner-kill-you-than-coddle-you attitude is my real number one, because this unyielding Tiny Ancient One would tear the world to pieces to fight for what she holds dear—though you wouldn’t guess what it is she values with her general cutting reply to everything around her.
“I once lived in a place where the opinion of others mattered. It suffocated me, nearly broke me. [...] with enough courage, you can say to hell with a reputation. You do what you love, what you need.”
✦ Mor takes the spot as my 2nd fave right next to Azriel ; where one is fire and boldness and charisma, the other is ice and silence and an enigma, and both will have your back and front and sides all the way to the threshold of death—and beyond. And then there is baby Cassian with his insufferable arrogance and heart of marshmallows that will push you and be there to catch you if you fall. (I need to add that I will take my hope for a polyamorous relationship between these three with their complicated, enchanting dynamic to the grave and hold it close through whatever comes next).
✦ But why are they so important to Feyre’s healing? Because you can’t heal alone. I’ve tried it, and the road is rockier and more precarious without a shoulder to lean on and a hand to hold. I’m still learning to not cringe at taking a hand to walk the path (and failing, not gonna lie) but I nevertheless appreciate how breathtakingly SJM writes these journeys of recovery every. damn. time. You need friends to heal, and you need to help friends to heal.
“I wonder if, even in my despair and hopelessness, I was never truly alone. I wonder if I was looking for this place—looking for you all.”
✦ That’s where Lucien fails. I love him and his loyal heart, but sometimes you need to check your loyalty—sometimes the people and values you are holding on to are breaking something rare and fragile. That’s the precise issue with Lucien: He does not understand the depth of Feyre’s pain, if he had, he would’ve fought without backing down, getting up each time he hit the ground, because my baby is not a coward. Alas, people don’t ever really grasp another’s invisible pain.
Romance: Where Love Can Bloom (SPOILER ALERT)
➥ Instalove or Slow Burn, featuring Feysand
“I’m thinking, that I look at you and feel like I’m dying. Like I can’t breathe.”
Rhysand and Feyre are not my fave couple as their dynamic is too sweet and romantic for me personally. However, it takes nothing away from how you feel them fall in love, like a flower blooming and a freezing pair of hands finding colour next to the miracle of fire, or like the warmth and light of a familiar embrace you fall into in a world of cold, dark unknowns.
Some readers accuse the mating bond of being instalove in the case of Rhysand falling for Feyre. Did they read chapter 54? Rhysand fell for her as she was a human surviving Under the Mountain, and everything he did before that was him trying to save an innocent girl he suspected of being his mate but did not specifically feel anything towards.
In the end, mayhaps this book is too romantic for me, the aromantic with a heart of ice, to ever be my #1 book of all time, it nonetheless makes a comfortable and cozy den in its corner because A Court of Mist and Fury is a fairytale that takes the dashing princes and magic, and replaces it with human suffering and healing.
“You think I don’t know how stories get written—how this story will be written? I am the dark lord, who stole away the bride of spring. I am a demon, and a nightmare, and I will meet a bad end. He is the golden prince–the hero who will get to keep you as his reward for not dying of stupidity and arrogance.”
Companions
Book series playlist: Spotify URL
Books in series:
➴ A Court of Thorns and Roses (ACoTaR, #1) ★★★✯☆
➴ A Court of Mist and Fury (ACoTaR, #2) ★★★★★
➴ A Court of Wings and Ruin (ACoTaR, #3) ★★★★☆
➴ A Court of Frost and Starlight (ACoTaR, #3.1) ★★★☆☆
➴ Untitled Novella (ACoTaR, #3.2) ☆☆☆☆☆
➴ A Court of Silver Flames (ACoTaR, #4) ☆☆☆☆☆
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