A Court of Thorns and Roses is an adult themed fantasy romance book series written by author Sarah J. Maas, which follows main character Feyre Archeron in her journey in the faerie land called Pyrthian. The first book, A Court of Thorns and Roses, starts the Beauty and the Beast retelling series by introducing its readers to the divided world of the town where Feyre lives, the divided world of Prythian and the future romance that Maas brings to her audience. The timing of this book is a little slow, but is otherwise enjoyable.
A Court of Mist and Fury, the second book in this series, deserves a five star rating on its own. All the praise and attention it has received on bookstagram and booktok is understandable. The romantic tension is up and so is the action. Never have I felt more proud of, or seen myself in a main character as much as I have with Feyre in this specific book. Feyre’s character arc has continued to develop as she grows in this novel through overcoming her trauma, learning how to say no, and more from the first book to the end of this book.
A Court of Wings and Ruin is almost as good of a read as the second book in the series. The action contained is beautiful with suspense and emotion, perfect for those who love fantasy books with fighting scenes on a battlefield. However there are moments where it seems like the scenes in this book and what is talked about is just droning on and on.
A Court of Frost and Starlight is short, but sweet. It’s similar to a holiday short that one would see of their favorite tv show. It takes place over the holidays and is full of domestic bliss.
A Court of Silver Flames follows Feyre’s harsh older sister, Nesta. It can be a bit overwhelming, but a new perspective can be good, especially towards a complicated character like Nesta. Maas also gives a misunderstood Nesta, more character development and background as to why she is the way she is. However, this book still leaves some of the audience who loves this book divided with those who still don’t like Nesta, claiming that even though she went through a lot, it does not mean that she gets to act the way she does. That is understandable and valid but it is always good to get both sides of the story before one can move on in theirs no matter the viewpoint. So this novel does help the storyline in the way of clearing things up about a character and their trauma even though everyone does not agree with it. This novel does deep dive into the concepts of depression, pain, and how to find one’s way out of it. Even though it is good to see her healing, there are just so many moments in this book that the plot was forgotten, that it leaves the reader feeling like there are parts missing.
For those who love enemies to lovers, action-filled scenes, and more, this is a wonderful series to explore or try out. The first book is slow, but once one starts the second book, it is a nice rollercoaster from there.
