Holy gods! So much happens in this book! Celaena grows as a person and into her powers and birthright. She makes some powerful allies in Prince Rowan and his cadre. Unfortunately, she also realizes while she loves her captain, Chaol, she can no longer be with him. I think part of her realizes this after being around the fae and knowing deep down that he is not her mate nor is he willing to accept her fae heritage. She overcomes some very large emotional battles which lead her to discover her true potential. She makes a bold statement about who she is that rings across a continent. She now realizes what she wants to do and who she wants to be. Aelin of the Wildfire, Heir of Brannan, Queen of Terrasen, and she wants to “rattle the stars” to “build a better world.”

Meanwhile, Chaol is trying to help Dorian in whatever way he can leading him to working with her cousin, Aedion, and in turn helping her as well. Poor Chaol is mentally struggling so much with his decisions. His honor in his title and position has always been his anchor, but what if honor actually lies in doing what’s right instead of upholding the duties of a title? Loving her was already a step on the line. In helping her and Dorian, has he now crossed that line? I guess that depends on whether he serves the king or Dorian. Along with questioning his honor, he realizes he has lost her. He may still love her but he realizes they can never be because of who she is and the mantle she has chosen to finally claim.

Things seem to be going pretty well for Dorian in spite of not speaking to his friend, Chaol, very often and Celaena being away as well. He finds a new love whom he can confide in as she helps him try to stay under his father’s magical radar. Unfortunately, his luck runs out by the end of this book. I cannot imagine the horrors he will endure. Is there a way out? Will he be the same if he can get out of it?

This is the book we get introduced to Manon, a Blackbeak Ironteeth Witch. Gorgeous, gloriously wicked Manon. Honestly, I’m rooting for Manon and her Thirteen. I guess my pulling for a bad guy doesn’t just limit itself to gender because I find myself not believing Manon “has no heart.” How can she have no heart when the bond the Thirteen have is like no other? Especially the bond between her and her cousin, Asterin. There is definitely love there. How can she have no heart when she has that soul-deep connection to Abraxos? She feels for him, hates when he’s in pain, praises him for his loyalty. That shows heart. I think after listening to the Crochan she was told to murder, she’s starting to realize the lies she’s been fed by her Grandmother her whole life. If I were her grandmother, I’d be very careful with the granddaughter she has taught to be so fierce.

This has got to be my favorite in this series so far, and I can’t wait to see what happens in the next book. When do all these characters come together and what results will come from their meeting?

Here are some non-affiliate links where you can purchase this book.
Amazon
Barnes and Noble
Book Depository
Half Price Books