Queen of Shadows (Throne of Glass, 4)

’But perhaps the monsters needed to look out for each other every now and then.’ How do these books keep getting better and better? How is it even possible, within a series with such intense events, for the darkness, danger and intrigue to continually grow as it does? Somehow more elements are constantly coming into play but as you look back over the past novels you can see the groundwork that was laying low before. The level of planning that must have gone into crafting this world and weaving all of its conflicting threads together is staggering. It’s definitely the sort of fantasy novel that keeps you constantly on your toes, unsure of anyone’s safety. This novel truly shakes things up. I said the same with the last book, granted, but there are certainly some staggering, world altering events that take place in this instalment. I knew some of the drama was coming – as this was a re-read for me – and yet I was still caught off guard by some of the twists and turns. How I forgot some of the developments I simply do not know but I’m definitely glad I opted to give myself a refresher of the first half of the series before diving into the final three books. Needless to say I’m itching to devour ‘Empire Of Storms’ now. Like with the previous books I adored every element of this novel. The world has to be one of my favourites to have explored. The characters are just divine and the development throughout is constant. Admittedly one individual’s attitude frustrated me at times but it was believable and crafted well. In some ways the fact that they could infuriate me so just goes to show how real they felt. The action is constant throughout, the conversations and romance engaging, certain antics managing to bring a smile to my lips. Plus the emotion that Sarah J. Maas’s words can inspire at times is staggering. It’s no wonder that so many quotes from her novels have been shared far and wide. So it goes without saying that I recommend this book wholeheartedly and am now practically bursting with excitement over the opportunity to finally read the final three books. Although it’s hard to say for certain, as I adore so many moments from each of these books, I think this is probably my favourite instalment so far. All the books though are easy, beloved five star favourites for me. Just as a final note I’d personally advise reading ‘The Assassin’s Blade’ novella collection before picking this book up. You’re perfectly able to read this without doing so but that collection gives you a lot of background information about Celaena’s relationship with Arobynn who finally comes back into play during this novel.

This is an awesome series of books and leaves you enthralled and wanting more , even when the book ends... I can never wait to pick up the next and continue the journey with the characters. A must read for Fantasy/romance readers and I can see why everyone loves this series and continues to reread them. One that I couldn't put down. Reread to come

Jesus, this book was incredible. I loved every second of it! It was even better than Heir of Fire, and I LOVED Heir of Fire. Literally everything about it was amazing. I loved the development of characters (I liked getting to know Manon a little more - her fight with Aelin was intense and amazing), Aelin became more of her past self (QUEEN 🙌), Rowan opened up more. The only thing I didn’t really like was Chaol’s development, he annoyed me a little in this book. I don’t know what it is, but I feel like he became kind of a little bitch? And this genuinely pains be to say because I loved him in the first two books. Obviously loved the relationship developments (if you know, you know who I’m talking about 🥰😉). It felt natural and not rushed, which can be a thing in fantasy books, and I hate it when a relationship is rushed. I loved all of the sneaking around in this book, it was really fun and fast-paced; lots of action and adventure and it was just really fun to read. The battle was probably my favourite bit; I personally think Maas writes battle scenes really well (the battle scene in A Court of Wings and Ruin was my favourite). Even though there were so many different plots occurring at the same time, it didn’t feel chaotic or disorganised. All of the plot points really fell into place together and created such an epic story. This is definitely my favourite so far, but I cannot wait for the next one (I bought it straight away).

These books just get better and better with each book I read. When I first starting reading this series I wasn’t sure I was going to enjoy it as it didn’t seem something I was going to like, Celaena’s character just annoyed me. But I am so glad I stuck it through as I am so invested into these characters and the more that are introduced and the more they grow I just don’t want the series to end now that it is coming closer to its end. After defeating Narrok and the Valg Princes’, saving Mistward in Heir of Fire, saving Rowan from Maeve, starting her our Court, giving a blood oath, Celaena/Aelin was back in Ardalan to try and keep her promise she made to Nehemia to free her people and save Eyllwe. But she never expected to find out that everything had fallen apart after she left. Her cousin Aedion was alive but due to be executed, no one knew where the Captain Chaol was, what had happened to the Prince Dorian, plus there were new uniform guards everywhere. People were being executed daily on the streets, She needed to do something and quick. Can she save Aedion? Can she get the Amulet of Orynth? Can she free magic and get Rowan to join her and bring Terrasen back to its glory? Aelin Ashryver Galathynius continues to grow and flourish in this book. She is continually showing why she shouldn’t be underestimated. She is still the same person inside, she is still Celaena Sardothien but she has grown into her Fae-self, she has all the magnificent traits of both characters, she is fierce, arrogant, stubborn, brave, sassy, loyal, protective and dedicated. This book is full of strong, tough heroines, don’t distinguishing between main and secondary they are alike. They are all supporting of each other. The first I would have to mention is Lysandra, we first meet Lysandra back in The Assassin’s Blade Novella and I was not a fan of her at all, I wanted Aelin to destroy her back then, but I am so glad that she never did and I would have missed out on so much of her awesomeness now. Lysandra has had it just as rough as Aelin and the two of them together are a force not to be messed with. I can’t wait to see what he’ll these two ladies unleash. “Please,” Lysandra said, waving a manicured hand, “you and I are nothing but wild beasts wearing human skins. Don’t even try to deny it.” Manon Blackbeak is back in this book and she is so freaking kicka**. Now in Morath and away from her Grandmothers watchful eye Manon is able to stand up for herself and the thirteen without constantly being berated by the Matron. She isn’t about obedience, discipline, and brutality anymore, she is questioning everything. I loved how she pretended not to care about Elide but deep down she did and what she did for her will be something that will be a massive tide changer in the war. But when Manon meets Dorian OMG!! Fireworks explode! Even with Valg Col...

I loved reading those series. The main character is smart and determined. The events runs fast but not to fast to follow. I highly recommend for any urban fantasy readers.