A Court of Thorns and Roses by Sarah J. Maas

7 days. 2,096 pages. 616,975 words. I have devoured Books 1 – 4 in this epic universe created by @therealsjmaas and I am ready to talk about it. I know I am beyond fashionably late to the party. 

Talking of fashion, another obsession of mine, does anyone else visualise the characters and consider casting and costume whilst reading? When I am truly immersed in a book I become fixated on all of the details and this piece, one of my more extravagant purchases was a focal point in my mind when reading (swipe for full exquisiteness). 

Any fantasy reader or book blogger will have inevitably heard about this record breaking series, beloved by millions of die hard fans. I am incredibly particular about this genre and I was highly circumspect. Having inhaled Crescent City, the latest book in a brand new series from this prolific author, I knew I had to read her previous work.

The first book, A Court of Thorns and Roses, was a good read. Not one I would particularly rave about though the raunchy scenes were a delight and the world building nuanced. HOWEVER, Book 1 is almost a prologue, a literary amuse-bouche if you will, to the fire and pure brilliance of Books 2 (Mist & Fury), 3 (Wings & Ruin) and 4 (Frost & Starlight). Think Game of Thrones and Lord of The Rings with magic, political intrigue, scenes that will make you blush, layered characters and twists you will not expect. Suffice to say I was all in and so relieved to have persevered. 

Our protagonist is Feyre Archeron, a mortal brought into the faerie lands of Prythian. There are seven courts ruled by High Lords each with varying magical abilities. Feyre goes between courts, facing threats of varying danger, and surprising everyone with her strength and tenacity. This is fantasy on an industrial scale but it feels authentic as the development of characters and their relationships are so well written. Erotic romance with Enemies to Lovers, these books are my new guilty pleasure. 

Book 5 is a behemoth weighing in at 768 pages and as I look at it whilst writing this review I feel like a child viewing a long awaited present, itching to rip open the wrapping paper. I’m converted.

~ Chaya