How do I even review this book? Really?

One of my most anticipated reads of the year and I just…it’s done. I’ve read it. I know how it ends. What?

Let’s dive right in!

Feyre has returned to the Spring Court, determined to gather information on Tamlin’s maneuverings and the invading king threatening to bring Prythian to its knees. But to do so she must play a deadly game of deceit-and one slip may spell doom not only for Feyre, but for her world as well.

As war bears down upon them all, Feyre must decide who to trust amongst the dazzling and lethal High Lords-and hunt for allies in unexpected places.

In this thrilling third book in the #1 New York Times bestselling series from Sarah J. Maas, the earth will be painted red as mighty armies grapple for power over the one thing that could destroy them all.

So let’s address the elephant in the room first of all. This series – and Sarah’s other series – is without a doubt problematic. Here’s a brief overview of how. And I mean brief, because I am by no means an expert on these matters, but I want to at least mention them so you can look into them more yourself if they are likely to affect you.

Diversity – or rather, lack of. There is such a huge array of characters in this world, and a definite lack of diversity. Granted, you can tell Sarah tried to rectify this a bit in this book, adding PoC and different sexualities, but still. Ought to be mentioned.

Bad Rep – in attempting to add more diversity, it’s seems to have backfired a bit. Biphobic stereotypes have been used, along with a comment that can be taken in an acephobic way. Not all readers within these communities have been offended or harmed by these things and view them as being miswording etc, however some readers HAVE been hurt by this book, and so I’m mentioning it. 

That all being said, I feel bad for enjoying this book as much as I do.  I usually steer away from books I think will be problematic. And there are so many debates about whether it’s okayy to read this book or not, knowing these things, and it doesn’t matter how many times I’m told not to feel bad for enjoying something – I will. I always will. I know this book hurt people and yet I bought it anyway.

But also, nothing we ever read is going to be perfect by everybody’s morals, opinions, culture etc etc. Which is also important to remember.

So that’s how my mind is arguing with itself lately. Here’s my confession: I know this book has hurt people, and I feel bloomin’ awful for loving it. Make of that what you will.

Confession aside, this book is everything I hoped it to be.

I don’t know what else to say apart from I am complete and utter trash for this series. Or just Sarah J Maas’ writing, really. Just like her others, this book was so intense for me to read. Not even because the actual story was intense – which it was – but just all the emotions. I don’t know what it is about her writing that just makes me want to scream the entire time I’m reading.

I loved where the story went. There were so many heart stopping moments. I honestly just can’t explain what it is that hooks me so hard. There’s not really much more I CAN say, with it being a spoiler free review of the last book in the series.

Though I will say the sexy-times were a bit…overboard. Not that I don’t like reading them. It’s just…there were so many. And some at really inappropriate times. I don’t really think it was needed, if I’m honest. Which is odd because I’m usually squealing over every scene containing my ships, so.

I’m really glad we have another three books set in this world, because otherwise I’d have a problem with the unanswered questions I have. You can kind of tell Sarah is planning something for the next books, because she usually ties every loose end in a tight little bow that stuns me because DETAILS. But there were quite a few loose ends once you sit back and think about everything, so I’m very suspicious as to why.

But yes. I don’t know what else to say. I know this is a crappy review, but when everything is exactly how I expected it to be – the characters, the settings, the plot, my emotions – I just…what is there to explain?

I considered docking my rating for the problematic parts. But no other author has managed to bring out so many emotions in me while reading. You can see she at least tried with this one to be a bit better. I just wish she’d respond to her readers call-outs. But in either case, this book is without a doubt a favourite of mine, as with so many others.

Rated 5/5 stars!

Share your thoughts!

Have you read this book? What did you think?

Who’s your favourite character?

If you haven’t read this book/series, do you plan to?

Let me know in the comments!

Until next time…

Come and visit me!