A review by crownedaimee
Heir of Fire by Sarah J. Maas

  • Plot- or character-driven? Plot
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes

5.0

”she was the heir of ash and fire, and she would bow to no one."

We see more of than the broken assassin who dwells on the death of her beloved and is relentlessly blaming herself. We now see a queen who is willing to have a thousand enemies constantly on her back then see a friend in pain. Her shields are falling apart and she is finally letting people in.

Her character development is phenomenal. We witness her transition into Celaena Sardothien, watch the darkness that was inside her from the night that changed her life. But she overcomes it. She is more determined and stronger, both physically and mentally. However Sarah J Maas keeps Celaena stubborn and snarky which I adore.

”I claim you, Rowan Whitethorn. I don’t care what you say and how much you protest. I claim you as my friend.”

I absolutely loved Rowan. He’s infuriating at times but I still love him. He can be scary and intense but is a big softie at heart. He’s protective and defies rules for Celaena, it honestly breaks my heart. They have such a special connection, a bond that is rare. Celaena can finally be herself around Rowan. No more barriers and no judgement. They are lethal warriors but a pair that would do anything for each other.

Dorian Havilliard is still the same person we love. He wins over your heart because of his bravery against his father. He took risks and suffered the consequences for it. After rereading it, I still wanted to throw my book at the wall. He is becoming a true king and it’s one of the best things in this book. He eventually finds happiness and moves on from the assassin. He gains support with his magic and is fighting his loneliness. He now has someone else to rely on.

Chaol Westfall. I love him to pieces but I grew irritated with him, especially in the next book. He’s unaccepting of Celaena and Dorian’s magic, especially not accepting of Celaena being a fae. The loyal Captain of the Guard keeps secrets for the sake of Dorian’s safety and freedom, though it doesn’t always turn out for the best.

Aedion Ashryver. Can I just live in the Throne of Glass universe? I’m in love with all the main guys in these books. Aedion is just like Celaena in many ways. He’s is daring and doesn’t care about anyone other than himself and Celaena. He’s has it all; the deadly smiles, the wild behaviour and the muscles. Who doesn’t love him?

Manon Blackbeak, heir of the Blackbeak coven and leader of the Thirteen, is ruthless. She is a bloodthirsty and wicked witch but I love her. Her encounters and silent dialogues with Abraxos are too die for. Manon starts believing that there’s a chance that she has a heart and it’s amazing. I love her character development in the next book. Abraxos reminds me so much of Toothless in ‘How To Train A Dragon.’

”because I am lost,” she whispered into the earth. “and I do not know the way.”

The atmosphere is definitely darker and more mature in the book. The pace is thrilling, having you on the edge of your seat with every near-death encounter. The world-building keeps getting better. I don’t know how Sarah J Maas can write such magnificent places.

Heir of Fire has everything. The comedy, the action-packed scenes, the plot twist and the tearjerkers.

”I claim you, Aelin. To whatever end.”