A review by crownedaimee
Queen of Shadows by Sarah J. Maas

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

5.0

”but perhaps the monsters needed to look out for each other every now and then.”

Aelin is a true queen in my eyes. She’s gone from being selfish and only caring for herself before her court broke down her walls bit by bit and now she will gladly die for them. She’s still the same heroine we love but changed at the same time. Sarah J Maas has done a spectacular job with her character development. She is completely in control and is willing to risk everything for her kingdom. She has matured into this fearless person.

Manon Blackbeak is the best. She is finally making a stand against her grandmother, plotting alongside Aelin and helping her court. She is completely wicked in the most perfect way. She isn’t evil like all the witches are brought up to be. She has a heart and it just makes me love her more.

Nonetheless, we finally meet more kick-ass woman. Lysandra, Elide and Nerysn. All who is glorious and unique in their own way. Each has their own battles to deal with and overcome them. Who cares if they needed help along the way, they gladly accepted.

My poor Dorian. Even though I knew it happened, he still broke my heart. He’s so underrated and unappreciated. He was going through so pain and torture, just wanting to die until he finally broke free.

Chaol stayed true to himself, despite his reunion with Aelin. He is still loyal, selfish and protective. He won’t let Dorian go and it breaks my heart. Even after believing that he was no redemption for Dorian, he wouldn’t give up on him.

Aedion reminds me so much of Aelin. His sarcasm is the absolute best and undying loyalty for Aelins is astonishing. He had me tearing up and smiling at the same time.

Rowan, my love. His rare moments when his emotions won was so beautiful. Aelin brings out a completely different side of him and he continues to blow me away. I love his determination and his devotion.

’Aedion grinned at his queen as the entire world went to hell.’

The scene between Aelin and Manon was one of my favourites. Two badass woman fighting was magnificent. They were both powerful and deadly, you couldn’t know who would’ve won that fight. They bring an unpredictable dynamic that would truly make them a lethal pair.

The reunion between the original trio had me on a emotional rollercoaster. Dorian and Aelin’s magic together is deadly but amazing. They could literally shatter buildings together. Overall, the banter between Aelin and Aedion is more amazing than I could imagine. Their scenes had me grinning all the time.

’Aelin was laughing as she cried, and the male was just holding her, his hooded head buried in her neck. As if he were breathing her in.’

Sarah J Maas’ storytelling is honestly the best. You can’t help but get invested in this book, making you want to stay awake all night. The world is forever expanding and I’m so grateful and excited. The ending had be in tears. It was so lighthearted compared to the previous events, it was something we all needed.

Queen of Shadows is a rollercoaster. You have brilliant plot-twists, thrilling action moments and countless gut-wrenching moments. You would be a fool not to read it, especially if you love witches and demons.

”do you think monsters are born or made?”