Books

Review | A Court of Wings and Ruin by Sarah J. Maas

Em @ The Geeky Jock

23766634FINALLY!

Getting this book from the library has been a comedy of errors. I’ve been sent Thorns and Roses once and Mist and Fury three times by accident.

… not entirely a bad thing. There are scenes in Mist and Fury that I will happily read and re-read and re-re-read …

His lips trembled, and I brushed away the tear that escaped down his cheek. “I want you to know,” I whispered, “that I am broken and healing, but every piece of my heart belongs to you.”

… but, it’s nice to bring things to a close.

A Court of Wings and Ruin is the final book of the Thorns and Roses trilogy, following Feyre, Rhys, and the gang as they forge alliances, seek ancient treasures, and face down the King of Hybern.

Things I liked:

ALL the Personalities. This universe has a huge cast of unique, flawed characters – and Maas is en pointe the whole way through. Not a single character felt like a trope or caricature.

Rhys’s Pep Talks. Rhys, if you’re out there: I’m writing a monster of a dissertation and could really use one right now.

The Whole Package. This trilogy is one of my favourites ever … which says a lot, coming from someone who doesn’t typically do favourites. Integrated plot. Well-written characters. Meaningful, consistent character development. Respectful treatment of trauma and mental illness. Excellent relationships. Wonderful setting. Magic! (!!!) Effective themes. (Family. Loyalty. Love. Sacrifice. Growth. Feminism.) Smooth, engaging writing. This is exactly what I want in a book.

Things I disliked:

The Sex. I absolutely adore the Feyre/Rhys romance … this is the sort of relationship that EVERYONE should aim for: trust, loyalty, support, and unconditional love. BUT, time and place, people. You’re fighting a war here.

The Pandering. Representation in fiction is important. Good representation in fiction is importanter. There are several characters in this book who are described as being gay, lesbian, or bisexual … but, in each of these cases, it felt a lot like “Look! I’ve added a queer character! I’m inclusive!” Compare this to Azriel – a burn victim – who’s experience is meaningfully and richly incorporated into his story.

The Mate Game:

Drinking game? Drinking game. Every time the word “mate” is said, you drink. Warning: You’ll be drunk by the end of the first chapter … And in hospital by chapter five. You might want to pace yourself. PSA: Binge drinking is bad for your health. Please don’t. If you do: Definitely don’t drive.

New idea. Let’s replace shots with a Cassian-style workout.

  • Every time someone says “mate”: Plank
  • Every time Feyre/Rhys use the bond: 10 lunges
  • Every time someone references the Wall: 10 McGill crunches
  • Every time someone says “Illyrian”: 10 squats
  • Every time someone says “Cauldron”: 10 push-ups

Favourite quote:

You do not fear. You do not falter. You do not yield.

The Details:

  • The Book: A Court of Wings and Ruin by Sarah J. Maas
  • Published: 2017, Bloomsbury
  • My Copy: VIRL
  • Read date:
  • Rating: ★★★★★
  • You should read this if you like … rounding off an emotionally-wrecking triology with – maybe? – a happily-ever-after
  • Avoid this if you dislike … smut