Book Review: Crown of Midnight by Sarah J. Maas
Let me be honest: picking up Crown of Midnight after the gripping first installment of the Throne of Glass series was an easy choice. Following the fierce and complex Celaena Sardothien is an irresistible draw, especially when she’s back to showcase her true self as Adarlan’s premier assassin. Sarah J. Maas ramps up the suspense and emotional stakes in this second book, and if you thought the first one was thrilling, buckle up! The journey gets even wilder.
From the very first page, I was utterly absorbed. The theme of duality runs deep throughout the story—battle versus peace, the light and dark within Celaena herself. The notion that "some things you hear with your ears. Others, you hear with your heart" resonates strongly as we watch Celaena navigate the churning waters of loyalty, love, and vengeance. This book explodes with action-packed fight scenes and revelations that kept me on the edge of my seat (and yes, there were moments I nearly toppled off my chair!).
Celaena’s character development is my favorite part of the story. This time around, she fully embraces her identity, both as an assassin and as someone navigating intense emotional landscapes. The shocking revelation about her true heritage—her fae lineage—caught me completely off guard, and I found myself gasping at the implications for her future. The fight against Baba Yellowlegs? Absolutely legendary! It’s clear that Maas has perfected her knack for creating visceral, heart-pounding moments.
Let’s not forget the supporting characters: Chaol, Dorian, and Nehemia bring a perfect blend of tension and camaraderie to the plot. Chaol had me both cheering for him and screaming at his blind loyalty to the king. His internal conflicts were relatable, and I truly empathized when he realized the consequences of his choices far too late. Dorian, our sweet yet tormented prince, tugged at my heartstrings with his struggle for identity amidst the growing power he must confront. His warmth and loyalty made me root for him even harder, especially when he courageously embraced his newfound magic.
And Nehemia—oh, Nehemia. I never saw her fate coming, and Maas’s bold choices left me reeling. Her death galvanized Celaena’s resolve and dwarfed my emotions; I wished for just one more moment between the two friends.
Claire’s writing style in Crown of Midnight sparkles with vivid imagery and packed dialogue, which made the world feel real and compelling. The pace was relentless, perfectly crafting the essence of a heart-stopping read. Maas’s ability to weave intricate subplots while keeping the main arc engaging is a testament to her writing prowess.
As I closed the book, I was left with that bittersweet feeling—a mix of satisfaction and yearning for the next adventure. Crown of Midnight is an exhilarating ride that will captivate fans of fantasy and strong-willed heroines. It explores themes of friendship, loyalty, and the darkest parts of our souls even as it flirts with romance and heartache. If you loved Throne of Glass and are hungry for more intense stakes and character-driven plots, this book is absolutely for you.
In summary, Crown of Midnight left me buzzing with excitement and curiosity, and I can barely wait to dive into Heir of Fire. Join me if you’re fan of characters who fight not just for their lives, but for the hearts of the people they love. Trust me; you won’t regret it!
Discover more about Crown of Midnight (Throne of Glass, #2) on GoodReads >>