A Court of Wings and Ruin by Sarah J. Maas
Fantasy/Romance/YA
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
My book review of A Court of Wings and Ruin:
Yes, I read YA fantasy, and I’m happy to admit it. This is the third book in a series that has become a favorite, and the final installment didn’t disappoint. Mostly.
The series premise revolves around Feyre, a human girl who winds up in the world of the fae in order to protect her family. More or less held captive by Tamlin, the handsome, yet dangerous ruler of the Spring Court, Feyre’s life is threatened at every turn. As they spend time together, Tamlin makes it clear he wants her for his own. She’s willing to put her life in serious jeopardy to see it happen…but are they destined to be together?
The trilogy keeps one-upping the plot with dashing antiheroes, winged warriors, and plotting sorceresses. The dark aspects are dark here folks, make no mistake. Villains are capable of pretty graphic torture of their victims, including our heroes. This dark side is balanced by the magical wonder portrayed in detailed, sweeping depictions of magical settings and characters. And the heroine is one who is layered with complications and the right blend of stubborn loyalty. She held my fascinated interest right to the end.
As this book WAS that end, I can say that the stakes are never higher than the conflict that rages through this third installment. There was one side character arc that suddenly veered onto a tangent that felt a little implausible. It almost seemed tacked on to appeal to a timely and popular theme. And while the tail end wrap up/denouement felt just slightly drawn out, I can’t blame the author for not wanting it to end. I didn’t want it to either.
I do recommend this series for those who enjoy fantasy, magic powers, love triangles, and surprises at every turn.