A Court of Thorns and Roses (A Court of Thorns and Roses, 1)

I bought the trilogy. All together they were the best books I've read in a while. Separately, they were not perfect but I'm okay with that. I read a lot and tend to dislike books that show no character growth, or have wishy-washy villains, or have insta-love, or have love result from H saving h from sexual violation, or suffer from deus ex machina. I don't particularly care if something is obvious because sometimes I want to read something that is easy and obvious. My brain doesn't want to be challenged 24/7. Also, I love good dialogue- dialogue makes a romantic connection feel real rather than insta-lovey. Is dialogue action-packed? No. Does it slow down pacing? You bet. At this point, you're probably wondering where this review is going? Well, I think that knowing more about me as a reader might make it easier to see/ relate to my views for this book.Now the fun stuff! ***SPOILERS***Feyre (the h):This character is complex and goes through several changes throughout the series. In this book, she has her ups and downs. Initially, she is hardened, street-smart and capable with a cynical eye toward romance and happiness and outright hatred and prejudice towards the fae. She also has love for a family who seems to dislike and neglect her. She is not very likeable. But does that make a book bad? No. (Hello, Wuthering Heights.) It is, however, more rare to write an h this way because readers in general tend to want to relate to an h, particularly when it's written in 1st person perspective. So many readers might not be able to get into the story because of their dislike for Feyre. When the far remove her burdens that largely drove who she was, Feyre changes. She doesn't have a purpose to keep her going, to shape her. The pacing of the book suffers a bit here while she tries to sort herself out. She tries to make love and painting her new purposes, and while she has the determination to do so, the fit just isn't right. Does this make the book bad? No. While many people won't like to read about an h that seems somehow "less" this downward arc was necessary to fuel the inevitable reversal toward a more fitting purpose. It drags a bit for sure, but makes the reversal feel more right, more true later on. Did she rush into something with Tamlin. Her feelings do feel a bit rushed but ultimately fit her as a character- going all-in has always been her style from the start. In that sense, the character is consistent. Also, her reluctance to voice her love made me think that deep-down she might have confused love with gratitude. Tamlin was her savior in many ways. For all of these reasons I liked Feyre.Tamlin (the H):Tamlin was the 1st high fae Feyre had any meaningful interactions with in the 1st book. I never really liked him as an H. He was pretty but basically hollow. He struggles with uncontrolled rage. He had just as much hatred for humans as Feyre did for fae, and his elitist attitude was hinted at throughout this book (though not substantiated until book 2). He also adheres to fae tradition in weird ways- his willing participation in the Fire Night ritual is distasteful because it borders on infidelity (especially since we later learn in book 2 that he can designate a replacement). Tamlin has from the beginning been primarily focused on Tamlin. When things get tough, he sends Feyre away; he doesn't consult or listen to her, but just decides, hinting at his desire to treat her like a possession rather than a person. When he gets a moment of freedom under the mountain he attempts to have sex with Feyre (his wants) instead of trying to escape with or save her (her needs). When Feyre is dying, he can only bring himself to beg for her life, he isn't moved into action. All of these things hint that Tamlin is not a good fit for Feyre. Many readers will not like to read about an H that is so lacking/ ill-fitted. The beautiful part is that these things are only ever hinted at in the writing, not outright stated so you will want to root for Tamlin while also feeling something inexplicably lacking in him. I thought about it lots before I picked up book 2, where my thoughts regarding Tamlin were cemented. Tamlin could not have been written more likeable though. If he was the perfect H then Feyre falling for Rhys in book 2 would have felt like a betrayal, instead of fated, and then Feyre would've been worse than unlikable but detestable as an h.Lucian:A secondary character who is both interesting and flawed. He hates Feyre at first, but ultimately warms up to her. He is loyal to a fault, siding with Tamlin over and again, even when he thinks it is wrong to do so. A trait that becomes more obvious as the series progresses. Lucian has potential.Rhysand (villain/other H):Rhysand was the most interesting character in the book (although Nesta was a close second). Rhys was the evil queen's right-hand man. He has done terrible things. Yet, when we meet him (not my favorite bit of the book because of the gross circumstances I do not favor, as mentioned above) there is evidence that he is not all that he seems. He appeared to be interested in Feyre romantically, but the "why" part is not there. Also, it is not 100% certain WHAT drives his actions. He is a mystery. Why did he decide to help her time and again? Why, if he likes her did he decide to put her through nightly humiliation? Why use her to torment Tamlin? He is clearly not 100% a good guy. He is complex.Other things people often talk about:The sex. There is a lot more sex in this book than in other "YA" books. It seems like that has somehow lead to some amount of controversy. I find that notion very strange as many eons ago when I was a teen, sex was a big part of being a teen- whether or not to have it, who had it, when they had it where and how, what type of birth control to use, etc. Suggestions that a book would have any type of influence on those things are just silly. Teens have sex. It's a fact. Wishing it otherwise does nothing productive. Also, the sex in this series is not "explicit." Every time I see this adjective used, it makes me laugh. I have read many romances and even some erotica. If you truly want something "explicit" check out erotica- phrases like "the apex of my thighs" or the "the length of him" are not "explicit."The copious dialogue. Lots of readers don't like the extended dialogue and also wish to have seen more of the fae world. I am just guessing here, but I am thinking that they are meaning that they wanted less talk and more fairy magic. But, fae are known for more than just their magic. Another key attribute of fae has to do with their words- being able to only speak in rhyme, only speak the truth, answer any question posed, etc. This attribute can be very interesting (see Mortal Instruments series or Dresden Files). And indeed it was put to use throughout the series, sometimes well done other times much too dues ex machina for my liking. Dialogue can be a type of action when done well enough. In this book, it probably could've been better but was good enough for me.The Fire Night and rape culture. Honestly, I am bothered by this one. I am never fond of rape or sexual violence as a plot device which is why I tend to avoid historical romances almost entirely. In this book, I think the Fire Nite ritual was used in part explain a bit about fae magic and in part to push forward the Feyre-Tamlin relationship while introducing Rhys. I think it both went too far and not far enough. Tamlin's participation cheapens his feelings toward Feyre, just imagine someone saying, "I love you, truly, but I need to go have sex with someone else." And then he came back to Feyre AFTER HAVING SEX WITH SOMEONE ELSE, and bit her to clearly show his possession of her. It doesn't sit well, does it? Additionally, the three fae with bad intentions suggest to Feyre that fae tradition gives them the right to violate her just because she is present. That makes all fae seem brutal and detestable. Thus, it goes too far. But, what about the converse? The Fire Night ritual is supposed to be necessary to ensure the bounty of the land for the next year. But, the spring court is the only court that has/ observes this ritual en mass? That does not really make sense to me. The need for this ritual, especially considering mated bonds are a rare and extremely valued thing, is not properly explained. It really could've been omitted from the book and is one of the few things about the book that I truly did not like.The masks. Some people like them, some don't. The reason given for them was that they were yet another obstacle to a human girl falling in love with Tamlin. I really didn't mind them but I did not like Feyre's reaction to the removal of the masks. While it was consistent with her character (she always had an eye for pretty guys), I thought that it cheapened her character to have her feel relieved that Tamlin was so pretty without his mask. It was very superficial, and further proof that there wasn't much of substance to their "love."While book 1 is my least favorite of the series, I still really liked it and will definitely re-read it again. Books 2 and 3 get even better and I am looking forward to further writings as well. Hopefully we will get to see what happens to Nesta, Elaine, the 6th queen, and Bryaxis.

I was absolutely mesmerized by A Court of Thorns and Roses from the moment I started reading. The author has masterfully crafted a world so rich in detail and imagination that it’s nearly impossible not to get swept away in the story. The characters are incredibly well-developed, each with their own unique voice, motivations, and depth that made me feel emotionally invested in their journeys.The plot itself is fast-paced yet full of nuance, with unexpected twists and turns that kept me on the edge of my seat. The author balances action, emotional depth, and moments of quiet reflection in a way that feels seamless and natural. Whether exploring themes of love, loss, or self-discovery, the book leaves a lasting impression long after you’ve turned the final page.What truly sets this book apart, however, is its world-building. The setting feels alive, immersive, and complex. It’s not just a backdrop for the story—it’s a character in its own right, rich with history, culture, and atmosphere. It’s clear that the author put a lot of thought and care into creating this world, and it’s that level of attention to detail that makes it stand out from other fiction.Overall, A Court of Thorns and Roses is an unforgettable experience. It’s thought-provoking, emotionally resonant, and wildly entertaining. I highly recommend it to anyone who loves a well-told story that transports you to another world and leaves you thinking long after the final chapter. I can’t wait to see what the next book in this series entails!

This book had it all - fantasy, romance, friendship, family ties, tests of loyalty, deception and an impending war continues to threaten everyone we've come to loveAt first I was not sure if I would like this book, because in the beginning I was not sure I completely liked Feyre. I did feel bad for her because at the start it seemed like her family was just so god awful. But just because you feel bad for someone does not mean you have to like them.That being said I grew to like Feyre more as the book progressed. In general, I liked how each character was well developed and as time went on we as readers learned more and more about them. Because which each bit of information I felt for the characters more and more.Feyre - She grew from a somewhat bitter, occasionally self-righteous, strong/independent young woman who hated faeries, into a more caring and understanding person. It can be said that one Feyre's greatest weakness in the beginning was her inability to connect with others. She lived only ever depending on herself and as such made herself isolated and her heart cold. But after coming to live in Prythian she finally opened up her heart to the world around her. She fell in love, made friends; she changed.Tamlin - I like Tamlin, I really do. However, for me I think he is the most consistent character so I don't have too much to say about him. He truly was a fool to let Feyre go but I understand that he did that out of love. Thankfully it all worked out for them.Lucien - I am not going to lie for a large portion of the book Lucien was my favorite character. He (as Feyre said herself) never pretends to be anything but who he is. He is frank, blunt and honest. Learning about his past, it was no wonder he closed himself off to others. His family (minus his mother I suppose) is beyond cruel. His relationship with Feyre was also one of favorite parts. From the start it was clear that he had a lowly opinion of humans. But their little adventures, along with their back-and-forth made up some of my favorite moments. Because at the end of the day inspite of everything Lucien and Feyre cared about it each other. He took a risk helping her and she gave up her name for him. They built a genuine friendship and I love it.Rhysand - This may surprise some, I actually liked Rhysand from the moment he was introduced. The way he appeared out of nowhere are rescued Feyre from some random faeries had me thinking he'd be of greater importance in the story later on. Even when he did wicked things I felt he was a rather gray character, because as he said, he had reasons for remaining beside Amarantha. When Rhysand appeared before Feyre and offered the deal to save her life I knew, I knew there must be more to him. Although it took Feyre quite sometime to notice I quickly figured out the Rhysand was plotting to take down Amarantha. I mean who is their right mind would want to stay enslaved if they could find a way out? It also occurred to me that Rhysand might truly care about Feyre. Though she never seemed to notice until the end. Honestly, if this story were a little different and Feyre wasn't so entirely in love with Tamlin I could honestly see her and Rhysand together. Because in the end I think they have this peculiar understanding between, a bond that I hope will be addressed further in the sequels.Amarantha - I hate her, I hate her so much. But I guess that is what makes her a good antagonist and her death so worth it. When they first talked about her I actually randomly thought to myself, "What if this wicked, cold-hearted character had a sibling, maybe a kindhearted sister to serve as her foil. Wouldn't that be good?". Of course then I read she had a sister, and I thought "Wow just like I'd hoped". Too bad her sister was described was being just as wicked as her, only somehow naive enough to fall in love with manipulative human and be tortured and killed by his hand. Damn, just damn I felt bad for Amarantha for a fraction of second. Naturally that moment passed and in spite of her past I couldn't possibly ignore the horrible things she continued to do and her enslavement of the High Fae. She reveled in the suffering of others and like a child essentially lashed out whenever she couldn't have her way. I truly wretched person from start to end.Nesta - I went from hating this girl to loving her. She came off cold hearted and careless but in truth she loved her family fiercely. To think that she was the only person thus far to have been able to, through seer willpower, resist glamouring is pretty amazing. Her willingness to actually go and try to fight for her sisters life is truly amazing. At first I didn't quite feel that her coldness toward their father was really necessary and I thought it only to be due to the fact that he'd lost their money. But when I realized it was because the things their father refused to do, his unwillingness to truly fight for their family I came to share her resentment. Because honestly their dad essentially left them to fend for themselves. If it weren't for Feyre they would've died a long time ago, and there father did was dumbly crave wood and wallow in self-pity. In the end, I think Nesta loved Feyre the most, and they understood each other the best.Alright well this late-night rant of a review over. Bottom line this book as worth it. If you're a person that like fantasy, romance, intrigue, court politics and the like you'll love this. Its well-written, well-paced and the characters are wonderful.