Sarah J. Maas' "A Court of Wings and Ruin" continues with Feyre traveling to the Spring Court to gather information about the king invading her land. Feyre learns to associate with the influences of magical and political powers in a game of deceit that proves deadly. At the same time, she gains alliances and attempts to find that balance between her court family and love.
As war threatens, Feyre and Rhysand need to make some important decisions and face challenges that could decide the destiny of their world. The novel studies love, trust, and power in a high-stakes fantasy setting.
Maas is a famous novelist who is known for her bestselling series. She has gained an enormous and ever-growing fan base, with over 38 million copies sold worldwide in English and translated into 38 languages.
Maas is one of the greatest contemporary authors who has been successful in gaining immense popularity on social media. The hashtag for her "A Court of Thorns and Roses" series has reached several billion views.
As explained by Bookish Wayfarer, the book is an engaging and thrilling read due to the fast-moving, action-packed plot, filled with intrigue, twists, and romance. The narrative extends the realm of Prythian by revealing the Court of Autumn, Winter, Dawn, and Day with their High Lords, allowing for a better understanding of the fantasy world. The character development, notably Feyre's strength and growth, contributes to the novel's appeal.
Multiple romances, including the fan-favorite Feyre and Rhysand, add to the excitement. Maas' first-person narrative style immerses readers in Feyre's perspective, creating suspense and a sense of the unknown. The book's flaw lies in its inevitable conclusion, leaving readers yearning for more.
Overall, "A Court of Wings and Ruin" delivers an entertaining and satisfying addition to the series.
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Cozy Critiques noted that the book completes the first story arc of the "A Court of Thorns and Roses" series, with Feyre returning to the Spring Court to study the situation with Tamlin and the approaching threat of the King of Hybern. The reviewer said that despite not achieving the same greatness as its forebear, "A Court of Mist and Fury," the novel provides satisfactory character and relationship development.
The reviewer noted that the narration seems unbalanced, with some parts being slow and others overly fast-paced. However, the worldbuilding remains constant, and the conclusion satisfactorily concludes the story arc. The portrayal of mental health struggles and grief is excellently done. Still, issues occur regarding the treatment of LGBTQ+ representation, most notably in Mor's late reveal.
The reviewer concluded that the novel introduces the stage for the upcoming books of the series and keeps the reader interested in it.
A review of "A Court of Wings and Ruin" in Medium expressed the reviewer's intense emotional journey with the book. Despite some reservations, the reviewer acknowledged the thrilling and impactful plot, character developments, and the story's emotional depth.
The review highlighted the reader's connection with the characters, praising the strong women, Rhysand's character, and Suriel. The story's emotional impact, particularly Suriel's demise and the battle scenes, is emphasized.
However, the review also mentioned concerns about handling LGBTQ+ representation, specifically Mor's revelation, similar to the criticism pointed out in Cozy Critiques.
Despite some criticisms, the reviewer expressed deep appreciation for the series and eagerly anticipated future developments.
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