by Sarah J. Maas
Series: Throne of Glass #3
Genres: Fantasy
Source: Publisher
Purchase*: Amazon *affiliate
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?
I was already in love with the Throne of Glass series. From its main characters to the beautifully developed world that Sarah J. Mass created. Heir of Fire brought this story to a completely new level. Young adult meets high fantasy with wonderful new characters, an amazing world that Maas brought to readers in high definition with a panoramic review. It was one hell of a ride. Brilliantly executed, and heart wrenching Heir of Fire solidified this series among my favorites.
The tale picks up not long after Crown of Midnight ends. Calaena Sardothien has arrived in Wendlyn to the land of her mother’s birthplace. Here she wallows a little in self-pity, indulging in too much drink even as she searchs for her Aunt. It is here Maas introduces a new character and can I just say- I love Rowan Whitehorn. Rowan is a Fae prince and bound by blood to serve Queen Maeve. I loved the interaction between them. Rowan is complex and his history; I dare you not to fall for him. Calaena does not make it easy, and she spends some time feeling guilty and sorry for herself as she mourns the events from Crown of Midnight. Watching their friendship develop was as enjoyable. We witness an incredible growth transformation in Calaena. Their story builds slowly as Calaena works to understand her powers, the Wyrdmark keys, face her past and prepares to face Maeve.
The book is broken into three storylines; much like high fantasy and it thrilled me. The first of course is Calaena; the second is of Chaol, Dorian and the glass castle where we meet the General of the North, Aedion Ashryver. Aedion is cousin to Aelin and I loved finally getting all the details of their shared history. Aedion is a demanding presence; he is arrogant, cunning and relentless in his quest. Chaol struggles and is not at all impressed with Aedion. Dorian, sweet Dorian, gads does Maas pull my heart out with the events in Heir of Fire. The third focuses on Manon Blackbeak leader of the Thirteen and one of the Ironteeth Witch Clan. Maas outdid herself with the powerful descriptions in this segment. She brought Manon’s relationship with Abraxos, the wyvern, completely to life. She made me laugh and I ended up liking her. These witches are terrifying and yet they held me spellbound. Manon is unique and I am anxious to see how her role develops. The clans have struck a bargain with the King to be his aerial army and I was in awe of this thread.
Heir of Fire was stunning and brilliantly executed. It is equal parts plot driven and character driven. The overall question regarding the Wyrdmarks continues and all parties have made progress. The King is more ruthless than ever. Unlike the previous books, romance is not a predominant thread, although a little something develops for Dorian. While some will say it was unnecessary, it did soften my heart and make me dismiss his arrogance. I was team Chaol in the previous books, and now my heart lies with them all. The growth we see in Calaena was phenomenal and I am excited to begin the next stretch of her journey. All of threads had climatic endings, and I closed this book screaming inside my head as once again Maas left my heart unraveling and eager for the next installment.
About Kimberly
Kimberly is a coffee loving book addict who reads and listens to fictional stories in all genres. Whovian, Ravenclaw, Howler and proud Nonna. She owns and manages Caffeinated PR. The coffee is always on and she is ready to chat. BlueSky | Facebook | Instagram
Cyn
I’m a big fan of Rowen (and Aedion)! Definitely can’t wait to see more of them. And seriously, the ending killed me! At first I didn’t really care about Manon, but I got invested, haha. I really liked Abraxos! Great review, glad this book was a winner for you!
kimbacaffeinate
Oh I agree Abraxos was such a fighter and hero 🙂
Faye D'Social Potato
Rowan was definitely one of the more interesting characters in this installment! Aedion was such a cool one too and I am sad he didn’t get as much screentime. Manon is probably my least favorite, but I have a feeling she’ll somehow have some sort of metamorphosis sometime later and go to the good side 😛
kimbacaffeinate
I agree Faye, I think she is going to be very important. I did like that she was stubborn, and was willing to feel unlike her brethren.
Lorna
I’ve not read any of these books, but I am glad you are enjoying them! Great review!
kimbacaffeinate
Thanks Lorna, these have been riveting.
Sharon - Obsession with Books
I loved this book! My heart broke for Calaena, she was so broken. I can’t wait for the next book.
A wonderful review Kimba!
kimbacaffeinate
So glad you loved it too Sharon!
Berls
I totally skimmed your review because I just started this yesterday and want to form my own opinions, but I’m so glad you loved it. It’s moving a bit slow for me at the moment, but in an okay way. I think the problem is I started it directly after finishing Crown of Midnight and that was just such an EPIC ending that I’m on a high lol.
kimbacaffeinate
Cannot wait to see what you think. Are ya done yet?
Berls
No not yet 🙁 It’s taking me a while because it’s just moving so slow. I like it, but I’m not blown away like with Crown of Midnight. Does it pick up? I’m like half way though and I feel like everyone is preparing for an epic battle of some sort. I just hope that’s in this book! I’m really hoping to finish today though, because I have Witch With No Name to read.
kimbacaffeinate
Hmm, I was honestly never bored, the details had me fully engaged. Hopefully it picks up for you.
Kristin
Okay, technically I had to dance through your review b/c I haven’t started this series yet BUT, BUT!!!! I own the hardcover first one and the review copy of the THIS one so I’m starting this very soon (or else I’ll explode… it’s a fact!). I wanted to see what your consensus was and I see Maas keeps delivering the best books!!! YAY!!!
kimbacaffeinate
OMG…start reading these are wonderful!!!
Laura Plus Books
I’ve seen so many 5 Star reviews for this book and so I really do need to jump on it soon! It’s been sitting on my shelf for so long which really sucks. I’m gonna read Crown of Midnight next though. So glad you loved this one! Awesome review. 😀
kimbacaffeinate
Oh enjoy, and you won’t be left hanging for a year like the rest of us. Crown of Midnight ends with a cliffy.
Micheline
Ah! Reading your review here brought back all the feels I got when reading this one (and reviewing it, cause that brought them all back too!) I had SUCH a MASSIVE book hangover when I was done HoF because it was perfect! Celaena’s character evolution was nothing short of brilliant! I was so happy we had bits from Chaol (♥) and Dorian but that last one shattered my heart at the end there *cries*
Like you, I adored all the new characters – ROWAN!! – but Aedion and Manon were pretty epic too! Everything. Just everything was perfection. I read it in June and the hangover hasn’t let up – bring on book 4 😀 Thanks for the awesome review ^^
kimbacaffeinate
The wait for 4 is going to seem long, but I am so excited by where this is headed!
Jeann
What is it about the author that makes us ship so many multiple males with Celaena? That’s skill I tell you! I really liked rowan as well as both a friend and a ship, although my heart lies with Chaol as the OTP. Glad you enjoyed it Kimba, I loved it too 🙂
kimbacaffeinate
I never really saw her with Rowan, he was mine..LOL All of the males have a vulnerable side and I think that appeals to us.
Jenea
Whyyyyy have I not read any of this series, it sounds so freakin amazing. Wonderful review. I’m off to see if my library has them. 🙂
kimbacaffeinate
You would love these…now go to the library!
Lily
I actually just finished this one last night and am still reeling from it. The last 150 pages or so we’re where all the serious heart problems started to act up! Glad to loved this one Kimba! I don’t know how we’ll survive until the next book!
kimbacaffeinate
Right..I was dying. I cried no lie!
Paij Slater
I am glad you liked it! I have started the series but haven’t had a chance to finish, but I have loved every minute of them! This is a great series
kimbacaffeinate
So glad you are enjoying them Paij..now catch up so we can Squee together!
Carmel
Oh, no! Not you too! It seems like everyone and their dog is reading this series; I’m beginning to feel like the odd blogger out. I can’t remember the last time I burned though a book that was equally plot AND character driven. And, you’re supposed to pick ONE team, Kimberly! Choosing them all is just plain cheating. Hehe 😉 Fab review!
kimbacaffeinate
Ha, I change my mind all the time, expect for coffee..leaded only. Team Caffeinated!
kara-karina
Rowan was my absolute favorite too, K.! I just skimmed through because I need to write my own review first, but this book was epic to extreme! :))) SOOO GOOD!
kimbacaffeinate
Woot..I adored him and cannot wait to read your thoughts!
kindlemom1
YES! I love seeing this review and that 5 star rating. This really is a fabulous series and I am making Christy read it this month since *gasp* she hasn’t started it yet. I might have threatened her if she didn’t…
kimbacaffeinate
What? Sweet, I think she will love it. I am glad you are keeping her in line!
Liza Barrett
I haven’t started this series yet, but the first book has been on my TBR list for a while. Finally went a bought the kindle version today. As soon as I finish the next couple of scheduled reads, I’ll be giving this one a go. I can’t wait!
Lovely review 😉
kimbacaffeinate
Enjoy Liza!
Tanja
Gosh I’m an idiot. I forgot to pre-order (actually I thought I have more time) this one and now it’s too expensive 🙁 I’ll have to wait for US pb and that’s loooong time. I can always get an ebook but still I have got the first two! !##!”!$ the struggle. Anyhow I love the sound of that one and three storylines!! Gimme some of that. Great review, Kim 🙂
kimbacaffeinate
Oh nooo. Hopefully you get it soon, but since we have to wait a year in-between you have time.
Sue
I loved Throne of Glass, but haven’t got to the 2nd book yet, will definitely finish the series.
kimbacaffeinate
Lucky for you that cliffy in book two won’t feel so bad since you can pick this one up right after!
brandileigh2003
I loved Rowan’s character in this one and can’t wait to see what his plot line does in the next books
kimbacaffeinate
I so agree Brandi. He stole the show in some scenes.
Mary
I liked but didn’t love the first one but I’ve heard it only gets better — not even a soggy #2 — which means I need to get on this series. Actually, I think I have a collection of the pre-novellas that I need to read first… And I’ve heard about Rowan and can’t wait to meet this fae prince!
kimbacaffeinate
I totally think that each book has been stronger. Book one fell firmly in YA territory but wow did this series develop. Rowan is mine Mary..just FYI.
Stormi
Okay, okay, you all are twisting my arm so hard it hurts..I will give this series a try..lol. I was told this was a must for me that I seriously need to give it a try and then you make it sound so tempting too..lol. 🙂
kimbacaffeinate
*releases arm* Enjoy!
A Voracious Reader
I bought the prequels, now I just need to squeeze them in! *big sigh* lol
kimbacaffeinate
I did not read any of the novellas. Maybe one day when they are in a collection.
A Voracious Reader
There is a collection of the 5 prequels. That’s what I bought. It’s called The Assassin’s Blade. 🙂
Melliane
That’s great! I’m glad to see you had a wonderful time with this one. I have the 2 first books but I still need to read them. Great review!
kimbacaffeinate
*sits down and waits for you to catch up*
Preethi
Great review, Kimberly! I agree with pretty much every word of this review, though Dorian’s romance kind of annoyed me. And I might have been kind of unfaithful during the book, leaning more toward Rowan than Chaol for a while 😉
kimbacaffeinate
I wasn’t a huge Dorian fan, so the romance helped me see his softer side. I loved Rowan but he was more like a sibling.
Lori
I totally have to read this series! I love the covers but thought it might lean towards the YA genre, but after your review I see that’s not the case and think I would definitely enjoy it. Another one for the TBR pile!
kimbacaffeinate
The first book maybe, but book two and three cross-over to older teen/adult.
Rita
I put off reading this series because I thought perhaps it was too juvenile a read for me, but I guess I was wrong– it sounds awesome!
I love a good fantasy now and again, so thanks for the glowing review. Will look for the first in the series to pick up.
kimbacaffeinate
Rita, I am picky as Nick likes to say about my YA and this series will appeal to older teens and adults. The world is complex 🙂
Ann M. Noser
Putting this one on my list, which means I should get to it three years from now, if I read all my TBR pile in order. haha
Glad you liked it so much–that cover has attracted my eye all summer.
kimbacaffeinate
LOL, I wish I read from my tbr pile in order but Ij ump around like a crazy woman.
Lupdilup
SOOO excited!! I can’t wait to get my anxious ears full of this book! I’m so thrilled is good just I wanted it to be 🙂
Thanks Kimba!
kimbacaffeinate
Enjoy Loupe, I need to listen to an audio clip but once I start a series in a particular format I tend to stick with it.
Lupdilup
I finished late last night! That’s it’s proof of how good I though it was. brilliant, just brilliant.
Awesome review! Like you, my heart is everywhere 😉
And now, the agonizing wait..LOL
Camille
I wasn’t in love with Throne of Glass although I did enjoy it to a certain extent. I wanted so much to love this series because it sounds amazing. I have yet to read Crown of Midnight although I did buy a copy of it, which is just on my shelf at the moment. But I’m glad the third book blew you away. I did hear that this won’t be a trilogy but would have other books continuing the series. Is this true? 🙂 Thanks for the review Kim! 🙂
kimbacaffeinate
I think each book is stronger than its predecessor, so I hope you try again
Trish
I haven’t started this series yet but I’m so hyped to do so soon. It sounds like it’s an exciting and very satisfying read. Great review Kim.
kimbacaffeinate
It is wonderful from the world to the characters Trish
Silvia
SO good, huh? Well, you really know how to push my ‘reading buttons’, Kimberly! I heard about this series and I knew people were going crazy for it, but I’ve just started thinking it could work for me as well… Fantastic review! 🙂
kimbacaffeinate
It has been a great ride so far, and each book is stronger.
Red Iza
Everybody is reading and loving that series ! Wait for me, I’m coming, I’ll be catching up soon lol 😉 (that means : great review 🙂
kimbacaffeinate
hehehe..you can do it 🙂
Bieke
I’m waiting for my copy to arrive, but it’s a pre-order from the UK edition, which releases the 11th, so. 😛
kimbacaffeinate
Not too much longer and so worth the wait 🙂
blodeuedd
This third one sounds so good! I should get the library to get it
kimbacaffeinate
Yes!