Book Review: Crown of Midnight (Throne of Glass, #2) by Sarah J. Maas
If you’re looking for a whirlwind of emotions, fierce battles, and a plot that grips you by the heart and refuses to let go, then Crown of Midnight is a must-read. Sarah J. Maas has not only expanded the world of Celaena Sardothien, but she’s also deepened our understanding of the stakes involved. I was hooked from the first chapter, drawn into a tale where everything feels amplified—from the action sequences to the character revelations. This book is like a rollercoaster ride that keeps you on the edge of your seat, and trust me, you won’t want to get off!
Right from the get-go, Crown of Midnight plunges us into the dark underbelly of Adarlan. Celaena’s journey as Adarlan’s best assassin is masterfully crafted. We finally see her unleash her true self, which, let me tell you, is both exhilarating and horrifying. Maas’s ability to create heart-pounding fight scenes left me breathless, and with every twist, I felt like I was on the verge of falling out of my chair! The quote, “Some things you hear with your ears. Others, you hear with your heart,” beautifully encapsulates the emotional depth of this book. Celaena’s internal struggles and her need for connection resonate profoundly.
The character development is exceptional, particularly for Celaena. We see her navigate the complexities of her identity and relationships, especially with Chaol and Dorian. I reveled in her character arc; she’s no longer just an assassin, but a multidimensional character grappling with loyalty, loss, and love. The moment she confronts her past, stating, “I don’t think I’ll ever forget them,” is heart-wrenching and authentic.
Now, let’s chat about the emotions that Chaol invokes. I found myself shaking my head at his blind loyalty to the king, feeling frustrated at his decisions but also sympathetic as he realizes the weight of those choices. Maas brilliantly captures the tension in their relationship, particularly when Celaena confronts him about Nehemia’s death. “I failed him in every way that counted,” she says, and it struck me just how powerful and tragic their entwined fates have become.
Dorian, on the other hand, stole my heart effortlessly. His journey through discovering his magic and trying to protect those he loves was beautifully written. The rawness of his character resonated with me, especially when he grapples with his loneliness and the burden of expectation. I cheered for him, wishing for his happiness and hoping that he wouldn’t suffer the same fate as other beloved characters.
Overall, Crown of Midnight perfectly balances action with heartfelt moments. Maas’s pacing is spot on—each chapter incrementally builds tension, making it nearly impossible to set the book down. The mix of witty banter, dark fairy tales, and the intricacies of political intrigue kept me rapidly turning pages.
I wholeheartedly recommend this book to fans of fantasy, romance, and deep character development. If you loved Throne of Glass, you’ll likely be captivated by this sequel. Crown of Midnight enriches the series and sets the stage for what’s to come, leaving readers eagerly anticipating the next chapter. Trust me, you’ll come away not just satisfied, but craving more of Celaena’s world and all its intricate layers. So, pick it up, gather your friends for a buddy read, and prepare for a riveting experience that’s bound to spark some passionate discussions!
Discover more about Crown of Midnight (Throne of Glass, #2) on GoodReads >>