Review: Tower of Dawn (Throne of Glass #6) by Sarah J. Maas

Firstly, thanks to Bloomsbury Australia for this review copy <3

Date Read: September 19 - 29 2017
Date Released: September 5th 2017
Publisher: Bloomsbury Australia
Source: Review copy via publisher
Genre: Fantasy
My Rating:

Synopsis:

"Chaol Westfall has always defined himself by his unwavering loyalty, his strength, and his position as the Captain of the Guard. But all of that has changed since Aelin shattered the glass castle, since Chaol's men were slaughtered, since the King of Adarlan spared him from a killing blow, but left his body broken.

Now he and Nesryn sail for Antica – the stronghold of the southern continent's mighty empire and of the legendary healers of the Torre Cesme. It's Chaol's one shot at recovery, and with war looming back home, Dorian and Aelin's survival could depend on Chaol and Nesryn convincing Antica's rulers to ally with them.

But what they discover there will change them both – and be more vital to saving Erilea than they could have imagined."

---

There were times I debated not reading Tower of Dawn because Chaol Westfall is my favourite character in the TOG series and the way he’s been treated since the end of Heir of Fire/beginning of Queen of Shadows has me really disappointed. Crown of Midnight was wonderful and the events in there definitely put a rift between Celaena and Chaol, but the complete 180 these two had in feelings for each other between one book and the next just didn’t make sense. It was drastic and it felt forced. However, I love these books for the world and the plot that has me at the edge of my seat and I was very curious about the Southern Continent. I’m so glad I decided to pick up ToD; I initially thought this was a parallel to Empire of Storms as a #5.5 but the events in ToD are actually crucial to the story and plot.

Bitter. That is one word I’d use to describe Chaol when Tower of Dawn opens. He’s full of disappointment and self-loathing after the cumulative events of the books and then this spinal injury at the end of Queen of Shadows. Arriving at the royal court of the Southern Continent, he not only hopes to walk again, but he’s tasked with trying to win over the khaganate and amass an army to help Aelin’s cause. It’s a difficult journey both physically, mentally and emotionally – he’s harbouring dark emotions from when he first left Anielle and there’s layers and layers of negativity he needs to get through. As the previous Captain of the Royal Guard, he didn’t play any political games so the khagan’s children really have him frustrated with their deceptions and mind games.

I think Yrene is the first female protagonist (well one of the main cast) SJM has introduced who is not a fighter, but a healer. Celaena, Aelin, Manon, Lysandra, Nesyrn, even Nehemia (let’s not talk about poor Sorscha), knew how to fight in some shape or form. Yrene has only ever held a knife for surgical purposes so it was quite different seeing this gentle woman who was fierce in her own way. She’s amazing at what she does and well loved by the people of Antica. As her and Chaol’s story intertwines she learns a lot about herself, about healers and her ancestry. I can’t wait to see what SJM has in store for her.

The royal family are really an interesting lot though. There’s the sly princess Hasar who is Yrene’s friend; their friendship is kind of weird because I could tell they cared about each other but Hasar clearly had the upperhand and as a royal she was conniving and would occasionally manipulate Yrene. Then there’s steadfast Kashin who has this crush on Yrene and it would be cute if he wasn’t so politically powerful. My favourite was definitely Sartaq who’s charming and quiet BUT HE RIDES A RUK. HE GETS TO RID AN ENORMOUS GOLDEN BIRD WHO IS PRECIOUS. Like I fell in love with Kadara immediately, she’s loyal, intelligent and described by Sartaq as clucky. One of my absolute favs was Hafiza, the Healer on High, this extremely wise and gentle woman who is the most powerful healer on the Southern Continent. She embodies goodness and I hope to see more of her in the future books. Then there’s Shen who’s a minor character but I find helps put Chaol’s situation into perspective. There’s definitely heaps of characters and they’re more diverse than in her previous books. I do think that they all have a purpose no matter how many characters SJM introduces.

I’ll never get off my Chaolaena ship but I could see where this romance comes from. It’s one of healing and acceptance, facing inner-truths and darkness. There’s actually two romantic storylines going on and I’m grateful. The other one is freeing and adventurous, perfect for this particular character. I was definitely shipping this second romance a lot more!

The Southern Continent is a really different place and I’m glad SJM expanded on her world to include a more diverse culture. It’s kind of like oriental and Middle Eastern? The world-building is fabulous, the khaganate having a long history of being smart enough to embrace all the cultures of these southern lands to ensure peace but also showing force when required to quell discord. We get to see the mountains and deserts surrounding Antica as well as exploring the bustling city. As usual, the writing is gorgeous and lovely, with in-depth imagery to heighten our senses. The food was what got me, my goodness do I really want to eat from one of those street vendors, or sit at a restaurant, or try some of Cook’s delicacies in the Torre Cesme. There’s mint tea, and spiced meats and honeyed pastries AND I JUST DROOOOOOOOOL.

Of course underpinning all this FUN (because who doesn’t love flying on birds, exploring new cities and EATING?) is the pressing threat of the Valg. The overarching Throne of Glass story continues which is why this book actually needs to be read after Empire of Storms and before the last ToG. There are like REVELATIONS that are so important to the story and had me shook.

Tower of Dawn is a book of healing, of facing your inner darkness and truths. Set against the glorious sunburned backdrop of the Southern Continent, in typical SJM fashion, this book had me on the edge of my seat the whole way through. I can’t wait to see how this series finishes!

Review: A Court of Wings and Ruin (A Court of Thorns and Roses #3) by Sarah J. Maas

Firstly, thanks to Bloomsbury Australia for this review copy <3



Date Read: May 1 - 8 2017
Date Released: May 2nd 2017
Publisher: Bloomsbury
Source: Review copy via publisher
Genre: High Fantasy
My Rating:

Warning: this review contains spoilers for the first 2 books (but NOT ACOWAR)

Synopsis:

"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."

---

It’s no secret I’m SJM trash and waiting for the finale of the ACOTAR trilogy has been one of the most torturous waits of book releases for me. While I didn’t love ACOWAR as much as my all time fav, ACOMAF, I still loved ACOWAR’s story so much and thought it a fitting end to this arc.

Feyre has gone through so much and she’s got one last hurdle to get over with her return to the Spring Court. I really liked her strategizing and manipulation to get her revenge in the court. I would have liked her exercising her High Lady status and powers a bit more rather than hiding them or seeking other people’s approval. I mean yes I understand she’s fresh but by the end she should have been telling people what her decisions were and trusting that they’d support her in them rather than being secretive about her actions. This happened a lot. I also had issues with her decisions too. There was this one point in the book where I knew Maas was trying to make Feyre seem humane but it was the wrong bloody situation. I was like NO. LEAVE THEM. But nope, overly kind Feyre has to do this and NEARLY GETS ONE OF MY FAV PEOPLE KILLED. NO THAT IS NOT OKAY. It’s not worth it. Choose your battles lady. Your goal is to win the war.

I didn’t think it was possible to fall in love with the Inner Circle anymore. But I did. MY PRECIOUS SMOL CHILDREN. Especially Azriel and Cassian. They are so compassionate and strong and I want to give them all hugs. I loved Cassian’s humour and the little moments when we’d catch Azriel making a joke or slightly smiling at something. I can see them as two besties – the mischief maker and the quiet broody one – in real life who I could be friends with. Cranky Amren was as hilarious as always. I mean she’s meant to come off as scary but I can’t take her seriously when’s snapping at people. I love these guys so much. As for Feyre’s sisters, I still don’t get Nesta’s hate for Feyre. Like why? It pissed me off to no end how Feyre just gives and gives and Nesta takes it all but not for one moment does she seem grateful. Nesta’s great as a character – she’s strong and unflinching but the familial stuff was terrible.

Rhysand. *Sparkly eyes* Such perfection. I love this guy. I’m in love with this man. I’ll admit Rhys didn’t wow me the way he did in ACOMAF when we first found out about him, but he’s still awesome here. Lovely, charming, let’s Feyre do her own thing, funny, ruthless when he needs to be. I could properly see how he chose his battles, fitting for a 500 year old High Lord. He’s good at what he does and he knows it. Makes me weak at the knees hurhur.

I loved the exploration of the other courts. In typical SJM fashion, she paints her world vividly, with gorgeous colours and descriptions. The red and golden toned hues of the Autumn Court with its seemingly sentient forest. The chilling Winter Court, forever frozen in a white glaze. And then there’s the Dawn Court *sighs in wonder* I’m a sucker for the concept of castles in the sky. The fantasy element, the way it’s ethereal, majestic and so Final Fantasy-esque really draws me in. The palette of the Dawn Court, the food, the plush décor and silks makes me so darn happy. I was honoured to be welcomed into Thesan’s home.

Now let’s talk about the problematic aspects of this book. I felt like diversity was being forced down my throat for the sake of quelling the cries of the community. I’m fine with the High Lords of each court being coloured as SJM did mention their colouring in ACOTAR. But then there’s the LGBTQI+ representation that I thought wasn’t done right. So many LGB couples suddenly popping up? At one point it’s mentioned that the mating bond is whatever higher power determining that a male and a female would breed strong children but then at another point there’s same sex couples apparently having the mating bond? Is that a plot hole or did I miss something I don’t know. (It’s not even about the passing of the High Lord title since we see the Summer title being passed to other family members.) She tried but eehhh…

Nevertheless, the story is engaging and the brewing war instills a fear wrought from knowing the terrors that Hybern can inflict. The battle tactics are cleverly thought out and Hybern is really a force to be reckoned with, not just their numbers and the dark lengths they’ll go to, but for their millennia of existence and experience. War is painted in a realistically haunting and exhausting light. There is no glory in it and I’m grateful that it’s not romanticized for a fantasy.

A Court of Wings and Ruin is a fitting end to Feyre’s arc of the story. Maas has taken us across Prythian and beyond, and introduced us to many characters that I can’t wait to meet in the future.

Empire of Storms Blog Tour: Fan Cast + Giveaway

This is my favourite time of the year - the release of a new Sarah book, followed by a Maas Thirteen blog tour! We get to spread the love for Sarah and fangirl over another wonderful addition to Celaena and Aelin's journey. Of course I adored EoS beyond words, check out my review which is basically all flails.

I can't believe this is the THIRD year of the Maas Thirteen. Let's get right to it.

Synopsis: 

"The long path to the throne has only just begun for Aelin Galathynius. Loyalties have been broken and bought, friends have been lost and gained, and those who possess magic find themselves at odds with those don't.

As the kingdoms of Erilea fracture around her, enemies must become allies if Aelin is to keep those she loves from falling to the dark forces poised to claim her world. With war looming on all horizons, the only chance for salvation lies in a desperate quest that may mark the end of everything Aelin holds dear.

Aelin's journey from assassin to queen has entranced millions across the globe, and this fifth installment will leave fans breathless. Will Aelin succeed in keeping her world from splintering, or will it all come crashing down?"

Buy links: Amazon | Target | Barnes and Noble | IndieBound | Book Depository | WHSmith | Kobo | iBooks | Audible

About Sarah

Sarah J. Maas is the #1 New York Times bestselling author of the Throne of Glass series and A Court of Thorns and Roses series, as well as a USA Today and international bestselling author. Sarah wrote the first incarnation of the Throne of Glass series when she was just sixteen, and it has now sold in thirty-five languages. A New York native, Sarah currently lives in Pennsylvania with her husband and dog. Empire of Storms, the fifth Throne of Glass novel, will release on September 6th, 2016.

She graduated Magna Cum Laude from Hamilton College in 2008 with a degree in Creative Writing and a minor in Religious Studies.

Author Links: Website | Blog | Twitter | Pinterest | Tumblr | Instagram

Empire of Storms Fancast

You knew it was coming! I've been doing these every year since like Crown of Midnight haha. Obviously would be continuing the tradition for EOS :D

Check out my previous fan casts for Heir of Fire and Queen of Shadows  including Celaena, Chaol, Dorian, Rowan, Aedion, Manon, Nesryn, Asterin, Lorcan and Lysandra.

[Image CR: Emily Browing 1 | Emily Browning 2 | Evan Rachel Wood 1 | Evan Rachel Wood 2 | Liam Hemsworth 1 | Liam Hemsworth 2 | Theo James 1 | Theo James 2 ]

Emily Browning as Elide Lochan - I always imagined Elide to be slightly pixie looking with her small frame and delicate in appearance but really strong underneath. That's the impression I get with Emily Browning who can look sweet and innocent yet seductive. I could also imagine an Asian actress as Elide like Kim Yoo Jung but she's a bit young at 16.

Evan Rachel Wood as Ansel - described as having wine red hair and a cutting smile I could picture Evan Rachel Wood playing the assassin Ansel with her sultry eyes and mischievous smile. Evan Rachel definitely looks older than Ansel is meant to be but it is SO HARD to find young actresses that fit the bill. 

Liam Hemsworth as Gavriel - I had Alex Pettyfer as Aedion because I imagine Aedion as having a harder look about him with everything he's been through as the Wolf of the North. I can picture Liam (same age as Alex I believe) being a calmer but larger Aedion so it would be really interesting to see the two next to each other.

Theo James as Fenrys - supposedly so beautiful he's hard to look at with golden hair, tan skin and dark eyes. Theo is in my opinion one of the most gorgeous men on this planet lel so it works? Also, would like to see Liam and Theo as besties in a movie because they've each done huge YA post-apocalyptic roles.

The fan cast isn't perfect, they never are and I found Empire of Storms to be the hardest one yet. I really struggled with Ansel, Gavriel and especially Fenrys. A little bit of makeup and costume can go a long way though and it's all up to the actress/actor to embody the character!

Giveaway

Prize:

• One signed copy of Empire of Storms
• One Throne of Glass tote bag
• One set of lip balms (Dorian, Chaol, Rowan) & one Celaena soap (c/o Behind the Pages) 
• One set of Throne of Glass buttons (c/o ThroneofGlassPH) 

a Rafflecopter giveaway

OFFICIAL TOUR SCHEDULE

September 7 - Katie @ Polished Page-Turners
September 8 - Steph @ No BS Book Reviews
September 9 - Sarah @ What Sarah Read
September 12 - Kelly @ Belle of the Literati
September 13 - Louisse @ The Soul Sisters
September 14 - Gillian @ Writer of Wrongs
September 15 - Andi @ Andi’s ABCs
September 16 - Gina @ Behind the Pages
September 19 - Jaz @ Fiction in Fiction in Fiction
September 20 - Mel @ The Daily Prophecy
September 21 - Betty @ Book Rock Betty
September 22 - Rachel @ Hello Chelly
September 23 - Alexa @ Alexa Loves Books

Review: Empire of Storms (Throne of Glass #5) by Sarah J. Maas

Firstly, thanks to Bloosmbury Australia for this review copy <3



Date Read: August 30 - September 2 2016
Date Released: September 6 2016
Publisher: Bloomsbury Australia
Source: Review copy via publisher
Genre: Fantasy
My Rating: (not enough stars, Aelin rattled them all *sobs*)

Note: this review contains NO spoilers for Empire of Storms but may contain spoilers for earlier books in the series. If leaving a comment please DO NOT post any EoS spoilers, this ruins the experience for others and these comments will be deleted.

Synopsis:

"The long path to the throne has only just begun for Aelin Galathynius. Loyalties have been broken and bought, friends have been lost and gained, and those who possess magic find themselves at odds with those don't.
As the kingdoms of Erilea fracture around her, enemies must become allies if Aelin is to keep those she loves from falling to the dark forces poised to claim her world. With war looming on all horizons, the only chance for salvation lies in a desperate quest that may mark the end of everything Aelin holds dear.

Aelin's journey from assassin to queen has entranced millions across the globe, and this fifth installment will leave fans breathless. Will Aelin succeed in keeping her world from splintering, or will it all come crashing down?"

---

Never has a book broken me so much. Made me cry not just at one point, but made me sob incessantly at MANY parts throughout. Over the years and the amount of books I’ve read, my heart has definitely hardened so for Maas to continuously evoke such feelings and reactions from me is a feat unto itself. For Maas to continuously surprise me despite my many predictions coming to fruition? Well then.

I’m not going to waste your time telling you how much I love my Queen Aelin. Y’all have heard it a thousand and one times (and then some). BUT HOLY GODS what she did in EoS. She’s a queen in title only as we’ve seen in the past few books. She’s been an assassin most of her life, had no training to rule. And yet. AND YET. Her scheming, her planning, her sacrifices excuse me while I go cry at how she’s been forced into all of this way too young. This woman has been shoved into something she didn’t ask for, born into a bloodline and gift that isolated her, but she still manages to love so fiercely, to protect, to be loyal. How the hell can this world ask so much of her? And how does she keep giving and giving? I have no words. I just cried and cried.

This was a book about the ladies. Elide. Manon. Lysandra. So much girl power and strength. I loved all my girls so much. I AM SO PROUD OF THEM. Elide’s resolve, Manon’s loyalty, Lysandra’s willingness to do anything for her queen. Aasdlkjsfsljfsdfldshsdf *flails* each girl gets her moment in this book – many moments actually. There is this one bit where Lysandra did this thing that had me flailing all over the place and screaming and on the edge of my seat and *pants* I was just like damn you Sarah for writing such wonderful battle scenes. So the Thirteen. One particular member had me bawling my eyes out in QoS. YOU KNOW WHO. YOU KNOW WHICH SCENE. Welps it happened all over again. Yeh I’m just crying all over the shop here. All the ladies. All the love.

Okayyyy la romance. I’ll never ship it. Never can. For reasons. Buuuuuut doesn’t mean I didn’t like it. Doesn’t mean I didn’t appreciate it. I could definitely feel the love between Aelin and her significant other. Moving on because this series stopped being about the romance for me since like book 3. THERE ARE MORE IMPORTANT THINGS PEOPLE. Like a queen battling an age old evil.

The plot thickens. If you thought SJM couldn’t possibly drop anymore bombshells (I thought I was so smart because I’ve known the direction this series would head since book 1) well… I was like WTF throughout. I may have known where the general plot was heading but then all the little pieces fell into place after what felt like SJM backhanding me I was so shocked and in so much pain. THINGS are revealed in this book. Very important things. Game changers. Events and revelations that had me reeling and crying (wow no surprise there) and going nope NOPE NOPE I REFUSE MAKE IT STOP *sobs* of course I want more. I always want more. I’m a sadist when it comes to Sarah’s books.

More blood, more feels, more battle scenes. Damn does Maas know how to write a brilliant fantasy that has her readers engrossed. I’ve loved the battle scenes that Sarah’s written throughout the series. They’re always epic. Empire of Storms though – the naval battles, the armadas, the armies that are raised – blew me away with the detail and the way the action built up and went on for pages. Had me gasping and screaming at the characters. So good. So sooooooooo good. Hatchets, knives, daggers, swords, arrows, claws, Ironteeth, jaws, and magic. Lots and lots of wonderful magic dredged up and exhausted after they’ve laid ruins at their feet.

Then the ending happened and I didn’t think I could cry anymore but NOPE SJM pulled up my tears like she had Aelin pull up those flames and I. Didn’t. Stop. Crying. For ages.

Here’s a queen who would do anything for her people. For those she loves. For her kingdom. Here’s a real queen who thinks on her feet, who considers all the possibilities. Who, because she was born into it, has been preparing all her life even at the most unlikely times, making the most out of every single damn opportunity and situation she’s thrown into. Here’s the true Queen of Terrasen who ensures that her people and her kingdom will always be safe and live on regardless. Here’s Aelin Ashryver Galathynius, the heir of ash and fire, the queen of flame and shadows, the fire-breathing bitch queen, queen of the wildfire, Fireheart, who is a force to be reckoned with. Those who try to break her don’t know her true strength and what they’re dealing with. *Flails and cries and screams and hugs Aelin and everyone*

Review: A Court of Mist and Fury (A Court of Thorns and Roses #2) by Sarah J. Maas

Firstly, thanks to Bloomsbury Australia for this review copy <3

Date Read: May 3-7 2016
Date Released: May 3rd 2016
Publisher: Bloomsbury Australia
Source: Review copy via publisher
Genre: Fantasy
My Rating: (not enough stars)

Note this review contains spoilers for A Court of Thorns and Roses but NOT A Court of Mist and Fury.

Synopsis:

"Feyre is immortal.

After rescuing her lover Tamlin from a wicked Faerie Queen, she returns to the Spring Court possessing the powers of the High Fae. But Feyre cannot forget the terrible deeds she performed to save Tamlin's people - nor the bargain she made with Rhysand, High Lord of the feared Night Court.

As Feyre is drawn ever deeper into Rhysand's dark web of politics and passion, war is looming and an evil far greater than any queen threatens to destroy everything Feyre has fought for. She must confront her past, embrace her gifts and decide her fate.

She must surrender her heart to heal a world torn in two. "

---

“To the people who look at the stars and wish…”

It’s a well-known fact that Throne of Glass is my favourite ongoing series. And if you asked me to pick a book I’d say Crown of Midnight is my fav but they keep getting better. Welps A Court of Mist and Fury has knocked ToG down to second as ACOTAR takes its place as number 1 ongoing series and ACOMAF as favourite book of all time. I'm suffering a massive book hangover after reading this. I don't give out 5 stars lightly. Even if Sarah is my fav author and I've loved all her previous books, I would never say before reading that that book will get 5/5. I give a 5 because I think a book deserves it. If I had hated ACOMAF I would have given this a 1 or a 2 regardless of how much I love Sarah. So you know when I say this is amazing, then there really aren't enough stars in the world to rate it.

This book is the most beautifully written story I’ve ever read. It spoke to me in every way. As an INFJ, it’s deeply ingrained in me that people do the right thing. I’m an egalitarian and an idealist. I believe that people should fight for what they believe in, stand by their opinions and good things happen to good people and vice versa. ACOMAF touched on all these beliefs for me.

With the way ACOTAR ended and going into ACOMAF, I thought I knew what to expect. Because ACOTAR is a Beauty and the Beast retelling I thought I knew how this story would progress and ultimately end. Oh how wrong I was. And how glad I am of that. The book opens to Feyre back in the Spring Court and everybody is still reeling from the events Under the Mountain. Feyre most of all suffers from a very serious case of untreated PTSD. And the way Maas writes holy moly. Feyre’s depression, anxiety, how she’s plagued by nightmares of Amarantha – I felt it all. All her pain, anguish, despair and helplessness. The beginning was so bleak and I was honestly afraid of the internal abyss Feyre seemed to be falling into. I was afraid she’d never come back out. She’s suffocating in her own skin and everybody is too busy dealing with their own nightmares to help her. I loved that she’s her own person. That she refuses to bow to anyone. So she fights, driven by her fury. For herself, for what she believes in. As the book progressed and she grew even more as a person, the self-actualisation that comes to her made me so proud.

Let’s get it out there – we all know this book is about Feyre’s bargain with Rhys and how she spends a week every month in the Night Court. It’s everything I thought it would be but so much more. It’s dark and cunning, filled with people who would sooner rip each other’s throats out than attempt being civilised. Horrible people who’d sell each other out even to other courts if they thought they could slither out from their High Lord’s wrath. It’s a court full of nightmares. It’s a court of people whose dark passion makes them fight for what they believe in. Who will don a mask to protect what they love. A court of dreamers. It’s beautiful and stunning, and the characters we meet have all been through so much I loved glimpses into their stories. How Maas manages to create such layered characters, introducing them to us and showing us so much in one book is beyond me. The Morrigan who’s known such darkness and yet chooses to live. The mysterious Amren who despite everything, has a sense of justice. Wild and passionate Cassian. Quiet and dark Azriel who’s always bathed in shadows. I loved them all. They’re flawed and yet perfect in my eyes.

The romance. Holy sweet baby Jesus the romance. I suspected a love triangle but THIS? This was not at all what I expected. The High Lord of the Spring Court is not who we think he is. And the High Lord of the Night Court is full of surprises. There’s the love that leads us to do things out of desperation and clouded judgement. Then there’s the love that goes beyond, one of selflessness based on having experienced the unthinkable and knowing pain – a self-sacrificing love for someone else’s happiness. I felt all of it in this book and I understood. The strength of emotions in this book simply floored me. Left me crying and unable to breathe because it felt like something was squeezing my chest and it was expanding and expanding and I couldn’t contain all these emotions within me. A love story of fates and bonds.

Maas always has a way of writing intricate plots with many twists and turns. The first book is barely a glimpse into the whole story. We deep dive into ACOMAF and nothing is what I thought it would be. The threats are so much bigger than imagined, and nobody is who we expect. There’s clashing swords, glorious fighting and ugly bloodshed. There’s magic of the beginning and the end. I was happy and then I was shocked. Sad, enraged, joyous, filled with sorrow and the need for retribution.

Then the writing. Maas’ writing is a prize in itself. I didn’t realise how much I’d missed her elegant style until I read the first page of ACOMAF. It’s her trademark way of explaining things beyond what I thought my brain could comprehend. Describing things to me in a new light, emotions slamming into me full force. Her poetic dialogue and ability to write a different voice for each character filled me with awe.

I thought the world-building and imagery in ACOTAR was amazing. I thought the Spring Court was beautiful. How mistaken I was. How… narrow and naïve my tiny human brain. Because there is a world out there. And it makes the constant budding spring stifling. The flowers are cloying after a while, the shining manor an empty façade just to look at, the pretty dresses limiting one from movement. Out there is a Prythian with the briny sea and ocean breeze, snow-capped mountains with the fresh scent of pine. Maas flies us through Prythian and opens our eyes to a world beyond.

My heart was thrown open to a people who have suffered, endured so much pain, been tortured and tormented, all for their dreams to keep on living. ACOMAF was a song to my soul that sang to me see Jaz, see what you could do if you dream big. If you reached for the stars, this is what your dreams could be – you could rattle the stars. But only if you’re willing to fight for it.

“To the stars who listen – and the dreams that are answered.”

What I Love About ACOTAR

I cannot believe how close we are to the release of A Court of Mist and Fury, the sequel to the amazing A Court of Thorns and Roses.

A few weeks back, the lovely people at Bloomsbury were giving away copies of ACOTAR in preparation for the release of ACOMAF. Thank you so much to Alexa for organising the giveaway. The ACOTAR read-a-long is coming up soon and if you're STILL not convinced about this series let me tell you 10 reasons why you should start...

1. It's a Beauty and the Beast retelling. I mean who DOESN'T love Beauty and the Beast? While Feyre isn't a bookworm like Belle, she is an artiste and is a brilliant painter! Beauty and the Beast is one of my favourite fairytales ever and I love reading retellings.

2. Enter faerie land - but not as you know it. It's stunning. The world of the fey is dark, sensual, dangerous and incredibly beautiful with magic and the like.

3. Experience the lush world-building that only Sarah J. Maas can achieve. The detail, the imagery! Colours, sensations, bright and dark - it's an immersive experience and Maas really takes us away from reality with her writing.

4. Feyre is badass. Feyre reminds me a bit of Celaena if you crossed her with Katniss :D very snarky much survival.

5. Sarah writes the most delicious men. There's Lucien. Then there's Tamlin. AND THEN THERE'S RHYSAND. Wow how to even choose a ship to get on board with?!

6. Lucien. A sassy, handsome specimen from the Autumn Court. He's like Tamlin's bestie and wingman.

7. Tamlin. Fierce and protective and sweet and selfless. One ship.

8. Rhysand. Hnnnng Rhys. Darkly seductive, what ARE his ulterior motives? You guys know I love my dark, conflicted guys. Two ship!

9. It's sexy you guys. High fantasy new adult done right.

10. YOU WILL GET THE FEELS. GUARANTEED. FEELS. WHAT ELSE CAN YOU ASK FOR OTHER THAN FEELS?

A Court of Thorns and Roses Giveaway (AU only)

HELLOOOOO FRANS.

There is just a little over a month until the release of A Court of Mist and Fury, the much anticipated sequel to ACOTAR by our Queen the Sarah J. Maas. I for one am super excited for this book not just for Feyre but because of one specific darkly handsome fey *giggles*

Anywhooooo. Rhysand aside... Nah that's a lie - RHYSAND IN FULL VIEW PLEASE. Ahem.

If you haven't had the chance to read ACOTAR yet, here is your chance!

"Feyre’s survival rests upon her ability to hunt and kill – the forest where she lives is a cold, bleak place in the long winter months. So when she spots a deer in the forest being pursued by a wolf, she cannot resist fighting it for the flesh. But to do so, she must kill the predator and killing something so precious comes at a price.
Dragged to a magical kingdom for the murder of a faerie, Feyre discovers that her captor, his face obscured by a jewelled mask, is hiding far more than his piercing green eyes would suggest. Feyre’s presence at the court is closely guarded, and as she begins to learn why, her feelings for him turn from hostility to passion and the faerie lands become an even more dangerous place. Feyre must fight to break an ancient curse, or she will lose him forever."

The extremely generous and always lovely people at Bloomsbury are giving away a paperback copy of A Court of Thorns and Roses, a tattoo and bookmark!

Don't forget, there'll also be an ACOTAR read-along coming up in April in preparation for ACOMAF!

Ok may the odds be ever in your favour.

Terms and Conditions PLEASE READ

• AUSTRALIA ONLY
• No giveaway/spam accounts
• Winner must respond within 48h with mailing address

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Queen of Shadows Blog Tour: Fan Cast + Giveaway

Hi everybody! For the second year now, I am absolutely thrilled to be a host on the QUEEN OF SHADOWS blog tour hosted by the Maas Thirteen. I can't believe it's been a year since Alexa, Rachel, Judith, Katie and I started the fan club out of our love for the series. I can't believe we've made it this far, and what makes me SO happy, is seeing the outreach of Throne of Glass. If you haven't already, you should check out my gushing (duh) review here.

Tour Schedule

September 7 – Judith (Paper Riot)

September 8 – Jaz (Fiction in Fiction in Fiction)

September 9 – Kelly (Belle of the Literati)

September 10 – Andi (Andi’s ABCs)

September 11 – Gillian (Writer of Wrongs)

September 14 – Kim & Wendy (The Midnight Garden)

September 15 – Mel (The Daily Prophecy)

September 16 – Gina (Behind the Pages)

September 17 – Nicole (The Quiet Concert)

September 18 – Jamie (The Perpetual Page-Turner)

September 21 – Katie (Polished Page-Turners)

September 22 – Rachel (Hello, Chelly)

September 23 – Alexa (Alexa Loves Books)

Queen of Shadows (Throne of Glass #4) by Sarah J. Maas

Publisher: Bloomsbury
Date Released: September 1, 2015
Pages: 656 pages
Genre: High fantasy
Goodreads

Synopsis:
"Everyone Celaena Sardothien loves has been taken from her. But she's at last returned to the empire—for vengeance, to rescue her once-glorious kingdom, and to confront the shadows of her past . . .

She will fight for her cousin, a warrior prepared to die just to see her again. She will fight for her friend, a young man trapped in an unspeakable prison. And she will fight for her people, enslaved to a brutal king and awaiting their lost queen's triumphant return.

Celaena’s epic journey has captured the hearts and imaginations of millions across the globe. This fourth volume will hold readers rapt as Celaena’s story builds to a passionate, agonizing crescendo that might just shatter her world."

Purchase
Australia: Bloomsbury | Booktopia | Bookworld

International: Amazon | Barnes and Noble | IndieBound | Book Depository
E-book: Kobo | iBooks
Audiobook: Audible

About Sarah J. Maas

Sarah J. Maas is the author of the New York Times, USA Today, and internationally bestselling Throne of Glass series–Throne of Glass, Crown of Midnight, and Heir of Fire, and the series’ prequel, The Assassin’s Blade–as well as the New York Times and USA Today bestselling A Court of Thorns and Roses. She wrote the first incarnation of the Throne of Glass series when she was just sixteen, and it has now sold in twenty-three languages. Queen of Shadows, the fourth book in the Throne of Glass series, will release worldwide on September 1st, 2015.

A New York native, Sarah currently lives in Pennsylvania with her husband and dog. She graduated Magna Cum Laude from Hamilton College in 2008 with a degree in Creative Writing and a minor in Religious Studies.

Find Sarah: Website | Blog | Twitter | Pinterest | Tumblr | Instagram

Fan Cast

In continuing with tradition, I'm going to do what I do best... Ok well I'm going to stick to what I sort of know how to do - and that's fan cast. I did a fan cast of Heir of Fire last year, so I'm going to show you guys who I'd choose for some of the newer characters in Queen of Shadows AND I PROMISE NO SPOILERS.

Basically, I loved ALL the females in Queen of Shadows. If you haven't already heard me screaming it to the world, THE GIRL POWER IN THIS BOOK IS AMAZING. 

Anyway my fan cast isn't necessarily to the exact descriptions of the book but I wanted to add a diverse twist! I went through Sarah's TOG Pinterest quite thoroughly to ensure that who I was casting had some parallels to who she had in mind.

Chanel Iman as Nesryn Faliq

Nesryn is one of my favourite characters. I loved her calm demeanour and the way she and Celaena just had this understanding. I chose Chanel Iman because Nesryn is clearly not white. She's got tan skin, eyes that tilt up, and I got the impression she had like Asian/Middle-Eastern roots (if comparing to us Earthlings). Chanel is 1/4 Korean and 3/4 African American which I think sort of embodies that.

Images: Source 1 | Source 2 | Source 3

Ashley Greene as Asterin Blackbeak

Sweet baby Jesus, Asterin's story is one of the most phenomenal side stories EVER. I admired her resilience, strong morals and opinions and the way she stood by what she believed in. Her loyalty and strength literally made me cry. I really like Ashley Greene, especially after seeing her play Alice in Twilight - Alice was my fav character. Ashley can pass off the sweet but also fierce look.

Images: Source 1 | Source 2 | Source 3

Lee Pace as Lorcan

Lorcan is an extremely complex character and very chilling. But cool. He's so very cool and he certainly gave me some laughs. When I was reading I kept picturing Lorcan like Thranduil from LOTR... I haven't actually watched any of the LOTR movies beyond the first one but I've seen enough gifs on tumblr and everything on social media to know who Thranduil is LOL. I was like "OMG THAT'S HIM."

Images: Source 1 | Source 2 | Source3

Crystal (Yifei) Liu as Lysandra

Another amazing young woman who shows astounding inner strength and resilience. After reading what she's been through I was like GURLLL CAN I PLEASE GIVE YOU A HUG. I know Lysandra isn't Asian (diverse casting here). She's so beautiful men aren't coherent upon seeing her. I'm not coherent when I see Crystal Liu. I think she's probably my favourite Asian actress. Crystal may seem delicate (Return of the Condor Heroes hnnnnng) but she's such a fantastic actress she can pull off anything.

Images: Source 1 | Source 2 | Source 3

AND NOW I PRESENT TO YOU MY QUEEN...

Barbara Palvin as Aelin Galathynius

Did you really think I'd pass up the chance to cast Aelin? Really? Please. I was looking for photos to cast other characters and then I came across Barbara and I was like HOLY SMOKES THIS IS AELIN. She's soooo gorgeous. Do you see her eyes? DO YOU SEE HER ASHRYVER EYES? So she's a model and not an actress. I don't care. She can be my fire-breathing-bitch-queen any day. 

Images: Source 1 | Source 2 | Source 3

OK tell me what you thought of my casting? Who did you guys have in mind?

Giveaway

GIVEAWAY TIME YAYAYAYAY (I seem to do this a lot I don't know why. Giving you guys free stuff makes me so happy.)

In both cases of the giveaways you must be old enough to give us your address so we can mail you the goodies if you win!

International

Firstly, thanks to the Maas Thirteen, we're giving away TWO copies of QUEEN OF SHADOWS US hardback and they each come with a THRONE OF GLASS tote bag. Yisss you heard right. This is open internationally.

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Australia

Thanks to Bloomsbury Australia I'm giving away TWO copies of QUEEN OF SHADOWS AU paperback and these HAVE SIGNED BOOKPLATES INSIDE. YESSSS YOU HEARD RIGHT. Australia only sorry international folks.

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Review: Queen of Shadows (Throne of Glass #4) by Sarah J. Maas

Firstly, thank you SOSOSOSO much to Bloomsbury Australia for the opportunity to read Queen of Shadows early <3 Celaena approves

This review contains no spoilers for Queen of Shadows, but might contain some spoilers for books 1 and 2, there shouldn’t be any spoilers for Heir of Fire either.

Date Read: August 12 - 15 2015
Date Released: September 1st 2015
Publisher: Bloomsbury Australia
Source: Review copy via publisher
Genre: High fantasy
My Rating: (not enough stars)

Buy Links: Bloomsbury | Booktopia | Bookworld

Synopsis:

"Everyone Celaena Sardothien loves has been taken from her. But she's at last returned to the empire—for vengeance, to rescue her once-glorious kingdom, and to confront the shadows of her past . . .
She will fight for her cousin, a warrior prepared to die just to see her again. She will fight for her friend, a young man trapped in an unspeakable prison. And she will fight for her people, enslaved to a brutal king and awaiting their lost queen's triumphant return.

Celaena’s epic journey has captured the hearts and imaginations of millions across the globe. This fourth volume will hold readers rapt as Celaena’s story builds to a passionate, agonizing crescendo that might just shatter her world."

---

Have you ever wondered what perfection looks like? Well it’s staring you in the face when you read Queen of Shadows.

Now let’s establish something first. Before you pounce on the one word many of us reading this series worry about (“ship”) I’m going to say this: I’m not going to be talking about that in this review because 1) this book was about the vengeance for me and 2) most importantly, I trust in Sarah. I trust her and the journey she’s taking us on and that’s all I’ll say about it.

Well Celaena’s back. And she’s pissed. So obviously she wants to wreak hell on those who captured her, tormented her and caused her so much grief and heartbreak. Add in that she’s more badass than ever before (READ HEIR OF FIRE IF YOU HAVEN’T) and she is DEADLY. She’s also matured so much, come to terms with who she is and accepted her identity. That doesn’t mean she’s done a 360 though; she is still very untrusting, keeping things to herself – but can we blame her? The more people know, the more danger they’re in. She will do anything to protect those she loves. And this is why I connect with her; she has such a strong moral compass I know she’s always going to end up doing what’s right. She might lie and deceive on the surface, but underneath there’s just this brutal honesty about her so when she makes friends, she makes them for life. In Queen of Shadows we see just how cunning of an assassin Celaena can be. My goodness her plans are so well thought out. Complex and intricate she’s got all her bases covered. It’s like she just conducts the most thorough risk assessments in her mind and knows where all the weaknesses exist. I was actually mind-blown. Celaena once again proves she’s Adarlan’s Assassin.

Aelin Ashryver Galathynius. What a queen this woman this. A family slaughtered, her kingdom taken from her and her people in ruins. The lost Queen of Terrasen is one that loves her people. She would do anything for them. And her people love her. The King of Adarlan commands his people through fear and brutality. What made the kingdom of Terrasen so strong was that their rulers treated their people with justice and respect. We can see the qualities of her ancestors in Aelin. This is one queen I would gladly serve.

While all of the secondary characters were individually amazing – Chaol’s change and growth, Dorian’s own battle, Aedion and Rowan each getting to know their queen – it was the relationships in this book that made it really stand out. Queen of Shadows was all about the forming of bonds and friendships for life. There was Chaol’s undying loyalty to Dorian; Aedion finally meeting his hero Rowan, but what develops is this amazing brotherly relationship forged through respect and fighting side by side for the queen they would lay down their lives for. BUT BUT BUT. The girl power. Holy sweet baby Jesus. THE GIRL POWER IN THIS BOOK. *Flails*. It was just amazing how the females in this book didn’t let guy shit and personal stuff get in the way of helping each other out. The way they respected each other and each other’s talents ermagherd. Celaena and Nesryn. Celaena and Lysandra. Lysandra and Evangeline. I adored Nesryn’s calm, Lysandra’s cunning and Evangeline’s understanding. All these young women had all suffered in their own way so seeing them come together for a common cause but then form everlasting bonds deeper than friendships just had my heart all warm and fuzzy.

Now let’s not forget Manon and her Thirteen. DAYUM I loved Manon’s internal battle with herself as she struggled with what she had been brought up to believe against what her moral compass told her. I was also shocked at the glimpse we got into the Thirteen. One particular character’s story had me in tears I was just sobbing for ages. Crying for an Ironteeth Witch? Who would’ve thought?

The already dark plot of this series gets even deeper and more heartwrenching, accentuated by each individual character’s suffering. There are so many shocking revelations throughout – from Arobynn’s reach, to the extent of the King’s plans and the way everything is connected. It’s like just asaskdsakjfhdhds WHAT and the one question that consistently arises throughout this book: are monsters born or made?

I couldn’t stop turning the pages of this book, couldn’t stop devouring Maas’ lyrical writing and stunning world building. I felt ALL the emotions. I related to every single one of the characters, lived their stories filled with despair, joy and everything in between. 

Queen of Shadows rattled the stars.

Review: A Court of Thorns and Roses (A Court of Thorns and Roses #1) by Sarah J Maas

Firstly, thanks to Bloomsbury Australia for this review copy <3

Date Read: February 3 - 5 2015
Date Released: May 5th 2015
Publisher: Bloomsbury
Source: Review copy via publisher
Genre: High fantasy/fairy tale retellings
My Rating: (Not enough stars to rate)

Synopsis:

"Feyre’s survival rests upon her ability to hunt and kill – the forest where she lives is a cold, bleak place in the long winter months. So when she spots a deer in the forest being pursued by a wolf, she cannot resist fighting it for the flesh. But to do so, she must kill the predator and killing something so precious comes at a price.

Dragged to a magical kingdom for the murder of a faerie, Feyre discovers that her captor, his face obscured by a jewelled mask, is hiding far more than his piercing green eyes would suggest. Feyre’s presence at the court is closely guarded, and as she begins to learn why, her feelings for him turn from hostility to passion and the faerie lands become an even more dangerous place. Feyre must fight to break an ancient curse, or she will lose him forever."

---

“Magic – everything was magic, and it broke my heart.”

How to start review? How to review awesome? I can count on one hand the number of NA books I’ve enjoyed in the past. The bulk of NA out there is contemporary with some paranormal mixed in but NA high fantasy? You guys ACOTAR is an absolute game changer. I think this is a first. It’s got the finely crafted world of YA high fantasy, with that extra bit of edginess and seductiveness that makes it NA. You can say that this book has officially seduced me. The world needs more books like this. The world needs more Sarah J Maas. I think this woman just has magic (I’m inclined to believe she is of the fey) that she weaves into her words and stories to create worlds that just suck you in and it’s like you’ve drunk faerie wine, become entranced, never to see the mortal world the same ever again.

Nineteen year old Feyre is struggling to keep her family alive. Impoverished, she spends her days hunting in the forests while her older sisters and father uselessly sit at home, relying on her for everything. I want to punch Nesta in the face. Please Sarah, please can I? Despite how ungrateful her family is, Feyre once made a promise to her dying mother to take care of them. She leaves her childhood and innocence behind to shelter and feed them. She is cynical, determined, fiercely protective of those she loves and takes no shit from anyone. No not even you. I love how she’s got the perfect balance of bravery but she knows fear as well. The faeries are monsters and there is no point in being fearless in their presence. To do so would be idiocy. I loved the way her character is balanced – brave at the right times, showing fear in others, because if you don’t fear the faeries then you’re probably not human. As the story progresses, she makes many realisations about herself, about those around her, and we see how just what she’s willing to do for those she loves.

LUCIEN. RHYSAND. Two of my favourite secondary characters. I think of Lucien as the loyal sidekick. Protective of his master but not afraid to show his opinion, I loved his snarky comments. He made a lot of tense moments during the book fun with his witty banter with Feyre. And there is a story behind him as well. One that I’m just waiting for Sarah to tell. Then there is Rhysand. Dark, enigmatic, full of hidden motives ermagherd I always fall for the dark ones. There is more to him than meets the eye.

Now. Tamlin. Romance. Whew *fans self* Nope I need an a/c. I just. Wait nope give me a moment it’s too hot in here. Much sexy. Much steamy. This is what makes the book more new adult than YA and I want to read ALLLL the books like this. As with most of my reviews of Sarah J Maas’s books, I’m not going to say much about the romance because you just need to read it yourself. All I have to add is, she has a way of writing exquisite men.

The plot of course, is no short of fabulous. Expertly weaving fairy tale with folklore, A Court of Thorns and Roses draws on recognisable elements, yet holds its own as a story. It left me feeling the warm and fuzzies that a fairy tale brings, but also mesmerised and haunted with the chilling tale of faerie monstrosity. Beauty and the Beast has nothing on this curse. Belle’s sacrifice had nothing on Feyre’s pain. And the townsfolk have nothing on the brutality and abhorred torture methods of the High Fae.

In the face of immortals, we can see just how weak we are as humans. How fleeting we are in existence. But Maas also shows us that because we have such short lifespans, we feel so much more, love so much more intensely and will go to greater lengths to achieve our goals because our days are limited.

Throughout this, Sarah’s signature writing style shines through – even more eloquent and gorgeous than before. Through her stunning imagery, I was Feyre as she felt the landscapes being painted through her fingertips, I was trembling on the ground as my bones broke. I swam in starlight and then drank it too.

“Cauldron save you, Mother hold you. Pass through the gates, and smell that immortal land of milk and honey. Fear no evil. Feel no pain. Go, and enter eternity.”

Blog Tour: A Court of Thorns and Roses by Sarah J Maas

HOLY BABY JESUS YOU GUYS. I am honoured and thrilled to be on the ACOTAR blog tour and to share with you guys my Q&A with Sarah! I've asked her some (non-spoilery) questions about A Court of Thorns and Roses and honest to God, I'm wriggling in my seat just reading her responses. I hope you enjoy! Many thanks to Bloomsbury for hosting the tour (: I'm gonna save my fangirling for my review but y'all should already know how much I absolutely adore Sarah and ALL her books. She is an auto-buy author for me. Feyre, Tamlin, Lucien, Rhysand <3 ACOTAR is AMAZINGGGGGGGGGG. Swoony, beautiful, lyrical and so full of passion. Love love love.

May 5: Perpetual Page Turner, Lili’s Reflections, & Words Read and Written
May 6: Bookish Broads, Dark Readers, & Fiction in Fiction in Fiction
May 7: Paper Riot
May 8: Polished Page-Turners, So Many Books, So Little Time , & Behind the Pages
May 11: Novel Sounds & Alexa Loves Books
May 12: Icey Books
May 13: Jenuine Cupcakes & Writer of Wrongs
May 14: What Sarah Read & Andi’s ABCs
May 15: Fiction Fare & Belle of the Literati

 

Publisher: Bloomsbury

Date Released: May 5th (US), May 7th (AU/UK)

Buy Links:

US - Bloomsbury, Amazon, Kindle, Barnes & Noble, Nook, IndieBound, iBookstore
UK - Bloomsbury, Bloomsbury eBook, Amazon
Australia - Bloomsbury, Bloomsbury eBook, Kindle,iBookstore, Kobo, Google Play, Bookworld, Booktopia

Synopsis:

"Feyre’s survival rests upon her ability to hunt and kill – the forest where she lives is a cold, bleak place in the long winter months. So when she spots a deer in the forest being pursued by a wolf, she cannot resist fighting it for the flesh. But to do so, she must kill the predator and killing something so precious comes at a price.

Dragged to a magical kingdom for the murder of a faerie, Feyre discovers that her captor, his face obscured by a jewelled mask, is hiding far more than his piercing green eyes would suggest. Feyre’s presence at the court is closely guarded, and as she begins to learn why, her feelings for him turn from hostility to passion and the faerie lands become an even more dangerous place. Feyre must fight to break an ancient curse, or she will lose him forever."

---

Q&A with Sarah J Maas

1. Where did the inspiration to use the name “Feyre” (as “beauty”) come from? 

Honestly, I don’t quite remember, but I recall looking up alternative names to “Beauty” or “Belle” and came across “Feyre” as an old spelling of fair (…which means pretty/beautiful/etc.), and loved how it also had the “Fey” element in it. (It’s pronounced “Fay-ruh”, btw!)

2. Was it challenging to choose which parts of the Beauty and the Beast fairytale to adapt into ACOTAR, which parts would come from fey folklore and which would be your own?
No, actually. While writing, I just let my gut guide me. So if I didn’t want to incorporate certain elements of the folklore that inspired it, I didn’t include them. I thought of the book as an original fantasy with a fairytale retelling bend to it—which gave me way more freedom that clinging to a straight-up retelling, I think.

3. What made you decide on art as Feyre’s hobby?
It actually wasn’t in the first draft—the art was something that came in later revisions, as I delved more deeply into Feyre’s character. I wanted her to have some passions, some interests—something she might have suppressed for years in favour of keeping her family alive and fed. And when I read back through the book, I realized that her descriptions of things were so vivid, so bright—always full of color and texture. It was if she’d been telling me all along that art—that color and light and all of that—was where her heart lay.

4. It’s a well known fact to your readers that your books tend to get darker as they progress – how much darker will the rest of the series be? (How much will we need to steel our hearts?)
Hahaha, ummmmm. It’s so hard to say without spoiling, but I’d say yes—the books get a bit darker, but that’s because Feyre is now discovering just how brutal and dark the world of Prythian can be. (…on the plus side, lots of steamytimes ahead!)

5. How many more swoon-worthy men will you be introducing to the series? :D 
There are…two new men coming in Book 2 that I am suuuuper excited about. (And a few others that are pretty hot, actually, but don’t have as big a role to play.) I feel like the title for Book 2 should be A Court of Abs and Pecs.

---

Thank you so much for your time Sarah! I hope you enjoyed that everybody. How wonderful were those answers? I thought I saved the best question for last. NOW LET THE COUNTDOWN BEGIN FOR ACOTAR #2! But first... QUEEN OF SHADOWS! (A COURT OF ABS AND PECS THOUGH PLS?)

About Sarah

 Sarah J. Maas is the New York Times, USA Today, and internationally bestselling author of the Throne of Glass series (Queen of Shadows, the fourth book, will release globally on September 1st, 2015) and the A Court of Thorns and Roses series (out starting May 5th, 2015). She currently resides with her husband and loyal canine companion in Pennsylvania. She graduated Magna Cum Laude from Hamilton College in 2008 with a degree in Creative Writing, and a minor in Religious Studies. Sarah is represented by Tamar Rydzinski of the Laura Dail Literary Agency.

Sarah's website
Throne of Glass Facebook
World of Sarah J Maas
Sarah's Twitter


Stay tuned for my review of A Court of Thorns and Roses (:

Thirteen Days of Ash & Fire: An Heir of Fire Blog Tour Day 1

Hallo Throne of Glass fans (and everyone else too) and welcome to Day 1 of Thirteen Days of Ash and Fire, the Heir of Fire blog tour hosted by Alexa from Alexa Loves Books, Rachel from Hello Chelly, Judith from Paper Riot, Katie from The Polished Page-Turners and myself. We present to you the Maas Thirteen! I’m thrilled to be kicking off the tour. Stayed tuned over the next twelve days because the Thirteen have some amazing posts for you! We’ve also got a spectacular giveaway that’s open internationally.

To keep up with posts use hashtags #HOF13Tour and #MaasThirteen (:

Tour Schedule

August 25 – Jaz @ Fiction in Fiction in Fiction

August 26 – Katie @ Polished Page-Turners

August 27 – Kelly @ Belle of the Literati

August 28 – Elena @ Novel Sounds

August 29 – Nicole @ The Quiet Concert

September 1 – Gillian @ Writer of Wrongs

September 2 – Judith @ Paperiot

September 3 – Melanie @ The Daily Prophecy

September 4 – Magan @ Rather Be Reading

September 5 – Andi @ Andi’s ABCs

September 8 – Gina @ Behind the Pages

September 9 – Rachel @ Hello Chelly

September 10 – Alexa @ Alexa Loves Books

About the Maas Thirteen

It all started with a tweet...

The Thirteen will be something you come across in Heir of Fire if you haven’t read it yet. I fell in love with the concept and was Tweeting about it one day to Sarah, asking if she would accept me as one of her Thirteen, when Judith, Alexa and a few other Throne of Glass fans started fangirling along… And ta-da the Maas Thirteen was born! Alexa, Rachel, Katie, Judith and I decided to put together this tour along with other Throne of Glass fans to show our love for the series! We sincerely hope you enjoy (:

Heir of  Fire

Publisher: Bloomsbury
Publication Date: September 2, 2014 (US); September 11, 2014 (Aus)
Genre: Fantasy

Goodreads

Synopsis:

"Lost and broken, Celaena Sardothien’s only thought is to avenge the savage death of her dearest friend: as the King of Adarlan’s Assassin, she is bound to serve this tyrant, but he will pay for what he did. Any hope Celaena has of destroying the king lies in answers to be found in Wendlyn. Sacrificing his future, Chaol, the Captain of the King’s Guard, has sent Celaena there to protect her, but her darkest demons lay in that same place. If she can overcome them, she will be Adarlan’s biggest threat – and his own toughest enemy.

While Celaena learns of her true destiny, and the eyes of Erilea are on Wendlyn, a brutal and beastly force is preparing to take to the skies. Will Celaena find the strength not only to win her own battles, but to fight a war that could pit her loyalties to her own people against those she has grown to love?"

Buy Links:

• Amazon
• Barnes and Noble
• Book Depository
• Kobo
• iBooks
• Bookworld (Aus)
• Booktopia (Aus)

To see my gushing about the book, you can read my review here: http://www.pixelski.com/2014/08/review-heir-of-fire-throne-of-glass-3.html

About Sarah J. Maas

Sarah J. Maas is the New York Times bestselling author of the Throne of Glass series: Throne of Glass,

Crown of Midnight, and Heir of Fire, and the series’ prequel, The Assassin’s Blade. A New York native, Sarah currently lives in Pennsylvania with her husband and dog.

Find her at the following places:

Official Website: http://sarahjmaas.com/
Blog: http://sjmaas.livejournal.com/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/SJMaas
Pinterest: http://www.pinterest.com/sarahjmaas/

Fan Cast and Character Profiles

For my tour stop I’ll be doing a fan cast of some of the characters you’ll meet in Heir of Fire with brief character profiles – no spoilers I promise! I tried to find actors/actresses that not only fit the physical descriptions from the book, but more importantly, embodied their personalities based on roles I’ve seen them play.

The left image is Photoshopped to enhance hair and/or eye colour to match the book's description.

Main Cast

If you’ve been following my blog a long time, you may or may not remember I did a fancast of the main characters in Throne of Glass sometime last year. Either way, here it is again and I stand by my original choices!

Celaena Sardothien – Jemima West

Celaena’s physical appearance is described as being beautiful. She’s got golden hair with turquoise eyes ringed with gold. She’s headstrong, snarky, intelligent and quick with a blade.

I thought Jemima West would play Celaena perfectly. She’s so pretty and looks really sweet, but for those of you that have seen her in City of Bones, you know she can play the assassin well. As Izzy, she did an amazing job as the beautiful Shadowhunter and I loved her sarcasm and haughtiness.

Chaol Westfall – Sean O’Pry

With dark brown hair and amber (his eye colour occasionally shifts) eyes, the Captain of the Guard is handsome in an understated manner and slightly rugged. He’s muscular but lean and is very familiar with swordplay. He may seem closed off but we all know what he’s like underneath. Honourable, loyal and so sweet, Chaol is my ultimate book boyfriend.

Alright so Sean O’Pry isn’t an actor but my gosh tell me that he doesn’t look like Chaol? He’s so handsome! And that strong jaw really perfects the image.

Dorian Havilliard – Chace Crawford

Prince Dorian Havilliard, with his stunningly good looks is a bit of a playboy. The black hair that sets off those baby blues really grabs the attention of the ladies (if being a prince didn’t already). Preferring books over fighting, I’ve always pictured Dorian as cheerful with a mischievous smile. He’s genuine and kind, and just so likeable.

Chace Crawford you guys. His smile! He’s always smiling and that smile is so contagious and we know he can play the sweet guy (Nate Archibald <3) so yes I’ve always pictured Chace as Dorian.

New Heir of Fire Characters

You guys these new characters. I HAVE SO MUCH LOVE FOR THEM. They are amazing and Sarah has just gone above and beyond to develop these characters into such distinct and memorable pieces of the story.

Rowan Whitethorn – Henry Cavill

A Fae with pale hair and green eyes, Rowan is tan and broad-shouldered. He doesn’t speak much, is an amazing fighter and very loyal. A lot of the time he comes off as harsh as he really pushes Celaena to her limits but he sees her potential. There’s a darkness to him but I think he’s a good person underneath, just hardened by his life.

Henry Cavill does not have pale hair nor does he have green eyes (does he? I can’t tell) buuuut he is tan and broad-shouldered and when I was reading the book I actually pictured Henry Cavill (physical appearance from his Tudor days) as Rowan. Then I realised Rowan has silver hair and I was trying to find someone with pale hair but no one could pull off Rowan like Henry in my mind. And you know what? Bleach will fix the hair colour problem. Henry is an amazing actor that can pull off any role so why not Rowan?

Aedion Ashryver – Alex Pettyfer

Cousin to Aelin Ashryver Galathynius the lost Queen of Terrasen, Aedion is branded a traitor by the people of Terrasen. He works for the King of Adarlan by controlling the lands to the north of Adarlan (where Terrasen used to be). Loud, obnoxious and a bit uncouth, he doesn’t set a good first impression. My love for Aedion knows no bounds. I just want to cry thinking about this golden haired boy who shares the same features as his cousin.

Me thinks Alex Pettyfer would play this warrior very well! Alex looks good in a fight… Well he looks good period but yes everything about him fits in my head.

Manon Blackbeak – Eva Green

Dis qurl is BADASS yo. Manon is so cool and there is this sense of honour I really admire about her. She’s strong, has a take-no-shit attitude and isn’t afraid to give people what they deserve. And as a Blackbeak witch, she is ruthless. Pale hair, gold eyes, iron teeth and iron nails, this is one red-cloaked witch you don’t want to mess with.

EVA GREEN. I saw her and she just clicked as Manon for me. Eva is beautiful and fierce which is how I see Manon. She’d play the part perfectly.

Heir of Fire Playlist - Ash & Fire

And as a bonus here's my Heir of Fire playlist. comprised of songs that I think embodied the story and my feelings regarding the book.

Giveaways

International Giveaway

This giveaway is open internationally and runs across all 13 of the tour stops!

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Australian Giveaway

This giveaway is open to Australian residents only and is available only on this blog. Gina's (Behind the Pages) tour stop will also feature this giveaway, so check out her stop when the time comes for more chances to win Aussies! Thanks to Bloomsbury Australia for providing the prizes.

Aussies also stay tuned because at the end of the tour Gina and I will be doing a special post with another giveaway JUST for you guys (:

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