A Court of Thorns and Roses

"A Court of Thorns and Roses", despite its fantasy elements, is a visceral tale of humans versus the supernatural Fae. We're quickly introduced to Feyre, a woman who is thrown into the mysterious world of the fae and finds herself captured by one of their most powerful rulers, Tamlin.

Matters become complicated when romance ignites between Feyre and her captor and intensify when Feyre becomes the missing piece to save Tamlin from a curse and a deadly force threatening his world. 

I was surprised at how dark this first chapter of Sarah J. Maas' fantasy series became. From the nightmarish creatures to the main character's torture, the tone is surprisingly foreboding.  This isn't to say that the book doesn't have its fair share of adventure, humour and intrigue.  However, the tone can quickly become brooding as Maas does not hold back with intense violence, intimidating villains and creatures worthy of the Lord of the Rings.   Feyre is also an uncommon heroine. Her unabashed sexuality is front and centre in stark contrast to the literary heroines of the 90s and early 2000s.  

For fans of intense, gothic fantasy, "Thorns and Roses" is a must-read.  The mystery, intriguing romance and fast-pace will leave readers addicted.  In fact, after clicking "publish" on this review, I'm off to see what happens to Feyre in the sequel "A Court of Mist and Fury".  

Ratings: ⭐⭐⭐⭐/5 

Review by Timothy Austin 

Format: Hardcover 

Buy it here.