bookswithdes's reviews
408 reviews

Wow. I can’t believe I’m finally done with this series 🥲. Fuck, I miss the tandem read, more specifically Tower of Dawn. If she wrote a book or novella on the southern continent, I would 1000% read it. Like seriously, I miss that place and the characters. Okay, back to KOA. This may be an unpopular opinion, but I gave KOA a reluctant 5 stars. Like it’s not on the same level as QOS, but I gave it 5 stars because of how everything came together and of course, the emotional impact. Like I think there were just too many battle scenes, even though they are not unbearable, it was still too much. But like I said, I didn’t hate this book at all, and I’m sad that I’m done with this world 🥲.

Elide + Lorcan
My heart hurt for Lorcan. Like everything he did in the last book was for Elide, but he didn’t know it would go as far as it did. He just wanted to protect her. And he crawled to Aelin, not Maeve 😩. And sweet Lorcan, he had turned his shirts into strips for her period and told Rowan and Gavriel to give them to her and not to say it was from him 😭. Then in the battle at Anielle, he went in thinking Elide didn’t care if he died or not 😭. But I am so glad Elide went looking for him, especially since she was the ONLY one who remembered him and if it wasn’t for her, he would’ve drowned. But I am so happy they finally declared their love for each other and he is going to be Lord Lorcan Lochan.

Aedion + Lysandra
Another character that deserves the world is Lysandra. Like she did not deserve how Aedion treated her. Like the poor girl had the weight of the world on her shoulders and the man she was falling in love with treated her like dirt 😭. But I’m glad she finally met her uncle, and that Falkan got his youth back thanks to Dorian. And I saw someone on TikTok say they wish Lysandra didn’t end up with any of the TOG men because she’s too good for them and I see it. But I also saw someone say she should’ve ended up with Fenrys, and I ABSOLUTELY would’ve loved that. But at least she got her happy ending. And it made me very emotional when Aedion finally got to swear the blood oath to Aelin and it was in front of the world 🥲. And y’all, Gavriel 😭😭. At least Aelin gave him the blood oath in death 😭😭😭😭. And speaking of Gavriel, he is so freaking sweet, like when said “Aedion is my pride”, I cried. And the conversation between Gavriel and Chaol was so sweet 😭.

Manon + Dorian

Y’all, why the hell did we not get a confirmed HEA with them. Like they better be getting their own book or novella or something. Because why is baby Dorian alone, and Manon has to figure out life without the thirteen. And speaking of the thirteen, I didn’t expect to cry because it was spoiled for me, but I SOBBED. Like if it wasn’t for their sacrifice, they would’ve lost the war. And poor Abraxos lost his mate, like why couldn’t Narene have flown away at the last minute instead of dying 😭. And back to Dorian, it's confirmed he’s human so how would it work with Manon if she’s immortal 😢. Is that why we didn’t get to see their HEA?? And it made me so sad to hear about Manon’s half sister, Rhiannon and how she wished to bring peace between the iron teeth witches and the crochan’s and rule amongst them alongside Manon 😭😭. And y’all the conversation with Kaltain?? Woah, but I hope she’s at peace now. I didn’t expect Dorian to make an alliance with Maeve 🫣. But fuck yes, his plan was AMAZING!!! He has come such a long way with his magic and his cunningness 🤭🤭. You guys, Dorian's father sacrificed himself alongside Aelin to give their life to forge the lock to save Dorian 😩. And his name was Dorian too 😭😭.

Aelin + Rowan
My sweet Aelin. It absolutely BROKE my heart to hear the audio of “take it off”, if you haven’t heard it especially when she says it for the last time, your heart will shatter. The one good thing that came out of that horrendous beginning for Aelin was that she had Fenrys with her. Like their code 😭. If it wasn’t for Fenrys, she would’ve been broken even worse, and the fact that when she broke out of the camp, her intention wasn’t to escape just like at Endovier 😢. Plus, it hurt so much to see them so hollow and unlike their former exuberant selves like understandably but still it hurt . Especially Rowan’s reaction 😢.But one of my favorite parts about this book was when the Little Folk showed up, like they always helped when she desperately needed it. And the scene when the Lord of the North showed up 😭, and let Aelin ride him. Like that was monumental. And Rowan further proved why he’s the best TOG man, like he put wyrdmarks into her new tattoo so she would know her way back home, AND when he thought about Sam and wondered if the young assassin was smiling down at Aelin 😭😭. And y’all that dumb bitch Deanna. I am so glad that Aelin and Mala worked together to get justice for Elena, and opened a hole in their realm into a hell realm. LLike fuck yes. I only feel bad for Mala getting that fate as well. And Aelin saw both Velaris and Lunathion!! Like I haven’t read Crescent City, yet but i knew it was that world by the map. And we saw Rhys and Feyre 😭😭.

It was nice to see everyone from the Tower of Dawn like Borte, Yeran, Nesryn and Sartaq. And on a side note imagine the chaos Aelin, Hasar, Fenrys, and Ansel would make 🤣. Something I didn’t expect was to see Nox again!! Like I’m happy we saw him even though it was only a couple of scenes.

Favorite quotes/scenes:

"I didn't crawl after Maeve. I crawled. I crawled after Aelin."

And tell him thank you for walking that dark path with me back to the light.
“It had been his honor. From the very beginning, it had been his honor, the greatest of his immortal life. An immortal life they would share together— somehow. He'd allow no other alternative. Rowan silently swore it to the stars. He could have sworn the Lord of the North flickered in response.”

“Every horizon he'd gazed toward, unable and unwilling to rest during those centuries, every mountain and ocean he'd seen and wondered what lay beyond.. It had been her. It had been Aelin, the silent call of the mating bond driving him, even when he could not feel it. They'd walked this dark path together back to the light. He would not let the road end here.”

“He had come for her. Rowan. Rowan Whitethorn. Now Rowan Whitethorn Galathynius, her husband and king-consort. Her mate. She mouthed his name. He had come for her. Rowan.”

"I told you once that even if death separated us, I would rip apart every world until I found you. Did you really believe this would stop me?"
"You were supposed to save Terrasen."
"Considering that the sun shines, I'd say Erawan hasn't won yet. So we'll save it together."
"You should have gone to Terrasen. It needs you."
"I need you more."

“A day of death has made me want to hold you. And do other things with you."
"Then help me finish cleaning Salkhi."
The prince lunged so fast for the brush Borte had discarded that Nesryn laughed.

"You'll be a brilliant father. The most brilliant one to ever exist."
"High praise indeed, coming from a woman who wanted to toss me from the highest window of the Torre a few months ago."
"A healer would never be so unprofessional."
"I am happier than I can ever express, Yrene, to share this with you. Anything you need, I am yours to command."
"Dangerous words."
"I'll have to win this war quickly, then, so I can have our house built by the summer."
"A noble reason to defeat Erawan."

"I love you. I have loved you from the moment you picked up that axe to slay the ilken. And I will be with you...I will be with you always. I love you.”

"I meant every word. And I will until the day I fade into the Afterworld."
"I love you. I have loved you from the moment you came to fight for me against Vernon and the ilken. And when I heard you were somewhere on that battlefield, the only thing I wanted was to be able to tell you that. It was the only thing that mattered."

"You flew back onto the battlefield to peck out the eyes of our enemies? And ate those eyes?"
One of the soldiers tripped, the others whipping their heads to them.
"Thank you for that."
"You're very welcome."

"I wish—I wish I had been so lucky to have you as my father."
"Thank you. Perhaps it is our lot—to never have the fathers we wish, but to still hope they might surpass what they are, flaws and all."
Chaol refrained from telling Gavriel he was already more than enough.
"I shall endeavor to be worthy of my son."

“World-walker no longer. I suggest you invest in a good pair of shoes.”

"If I don't die tomorrow, may I kiss you when the day is done?"
She was a trained courtesan, gods above. Highly trained. And yet the simple request reduced her knees to wobbling.
"If you don't die tomorrow, Aedion, then we'll talk. And see what comes of it."
"Until tomorrow night, then."

“And far away, across the snow-covered mountains, on a barren plain before the ruins of a once-great city, a flower began to bloom.”

"Even when you're... there. I am with you. Here. I am with you here."
"As I am with you. Always."
"I love you. Come back to me."

"I was given a message for you. Your parents are ... They are so very proud of you. They asked me to tell you that they love you so very much. And that the debt has been paid enough, Fireheart."

"I love you."
"And I you.Until the end?"
"I will find you again. In whatever life comes after this." "In every lifetime."

“Rowan wondered if the young assassin was smiling now-smiling to see her heaving the catapult into position.” 😭😭

"It's over."
Yet the woman he held, the child growing within her…Erawan might have been over, his threat and army with it. And Maeve with it, too. But life, Chaol realized life was just beginning.

"You know what victory means, don't you?"
"A good night's rest, I hope.”
"It means that we are going home. That you are coming home—with me."
Home. Yes, she would go home with him to the southern continent. And to all that waited there.

"Let the world know that you are a male of honor. That you stood by your son, and this kingdom, and helped to save it. You are blood-sworn to me. And you shall be buried here as such. Thank you."

"Ask me to stay.”
"Stay.”
"Ask me to come to Perranth with you."
"Come to Perranth with me."
Lorcan nodded, as if in answer, and his smile was the most beautiful thing she had ever seen.
"Ask me to marry you."
"Will you marry me, Lorcan Salvaterre?"
He swept her up into his arms, raining kisses over her face. As if some final, chained part of him had been freed.
"I’ll think about it."

"Lord Lorcan Lochan?"
"I’ll use it with pride every damned day for the rest of my life. I will marry you, Elide Lochan. And proudly call myself Lord Lorcan Lochan, even when the whole kingdom laughs to hear it. And when we are wed. I will bind my life to yours. So we will never know a day apart. Never be alone, ever again. If you would like that.”
"I would like that more than anything.”

“And smiling through her tears, laughing in joy and sorrow, Manon laid that precious flower from the Wastes upon the ground. In thanks and in love. So they would know, so Asterin would know, in the realm where she and her hunter and child walked hand in hand, that they had made it. That they were going home.”

"But I will be glad to gain another queen whom I can call friend."
"Not queen. Empress."
"Thank you, Nesryn Faliq. For all you have done."
"Empress? Really?"
"We won the war, Nesryn Faliq. And now we shall go home."
She'd never heard such beautiful words.

"I love you both. And no matter what may happen, no matter how far we may be, that will never change."
"We will see you again.”
"Together. We'll rebuild this world together."

"Will you work to rebuild this kingdom, this world, with me tomorrow?"
"Tomorrow, and every day after that." For every day of the thousand blessed years they were granted together. And beyond.
"To whatever end?"
"To whatever end, Fireheart." 

"For you, Fireheart. All of it is for you."
For across every mountain, spread beneath the green canopy of Oakwald, carpeting the entire Plain of Theralis, the kingsflame was blooming.

 

I ABSOLUTELY LOVED THIS 😭🫶. It’s definitely my favorite in the series, it felt so perfect to have met Elio in the first book as Luca’s brother, then as Kaia’s best friend and to have finally gotten to his book was perfect. The evolution of their relationship from strangers to friends to lovers was so effortless and real. Elio and Daisy are PERFECT together. The way he protects, cherishes and adores her 🥹🫶, and how she brings life into his life and takes care of him, no problem is amazing. They fit into each others life so perfectly as if they were each others missing puzzle piece. And y’all the scream I scrumpt when they found out she was subscribed to his account 🤭. 

 

tropes: strangers to friends to lovers, sunshine fmc, mmc sex worker, health issues, and she takes care of him 

 

“Daisy, huh? It suits her. Bright and sweet, a wildflower in a field of mundane green.” 

 

“You’re sweet, Elio. Really.” 

“I’m not. But for you, right now, I sure can try.” 

 

“You want us to be friends, Daisy girl? I think I could manage that.” 

 

“And I find myself not missing the solitude so long as she’s the one filling it.” 

 

“Hey, Daze?” 

“Yeah?” 

“I’m really glad you’re here. These past few days . . . they’ve been better, lighter, because of you.” 

“I’m really glad I’m here, too.” 

 

“You lean on me, I lean on you?” 

“That’s the spirit.” 

 

“And how are my boys this morning?” 

“Just grand.” 

“And how’s our Daisy girl doing? That strawberry wine hitting you just right?” 

“Yep, never been better.” 

 

“Why are you doing this, Daisy?” 

“What do you mean?” 

“All of this. You’re going to such great lengths to help me, and I don’t understand why.” 

“Because I like you, because you deserve to be cared for.” 

 

“I just told him the truth.” 

“Which is?” 

“That you’re the best thing in my life right now. That he’s out of his fucking mind if he thinks any of that bullshit is true. That I would . . . That I’d be lucky if you’d even so much as let me get on my knees in front of you.” 

“El . . .” 

“I’m serious, Daisy. Anyone would be lucky to have you, and that includes me.” 

 

“It’s just . . . you always look so handsome when you’ve just woken up. The mussy hair, that hint of stubble . . . it’s this perfect mix of rugged and soft.” 

“Thank you for the ego boost. If I want to impress you, I’ll just make sure to roll around in my bed first.” 

 

“You know, Daze, at the risk of sounding a little bit too sappy on a Tuesday morning—I just, I feel like you came into my life exactly when I needed you to.” 

“I feel the same way about you.” 

 

“Hope you didn’t get those tears all over my dog. He’s sensitive.” 

“Don’t be so mean to me in my time of crisis.” 

“Why not? It earned me my favorite smile.” 

 

“If you kiss me now, there’s no changing your mind. There’s no going back. You can’t wake up tomorrow and tell me that we need more time. You’re either all in, or you’re out.” 

“I’m all in on you. Now and always.” 

 

“Just wondering . . . why do you put your hand there when we kiss?” 

“I like to feel the way your heart beats for me.” 

“For you, huh?” 

“Yeah. It picks up speed when I do something you really like—when I brush the tip of your tongue, when I nip at your lower lip. I’m learning you, Daisy. And it’s my new favorite subject.” 

 

“Every little perfect piece of her is meant just for me.” 

 

“This girl—my Daisy, my wildflower—she’s fucking everything to me.” 

 

“What the fuck did I ever do to deserve you?” 

“You didn’t have to do anything. I’m here because I’m meant to be.” 

 

“She’s mine, and I’m hers, and nothing in my life has ever felt so right.” 

 

“You’re very good at this.” 

“At what?” 

“At this. At making me feel happy.” 

“You make it easy.” 

 

“Hey, Daze?” 

“Yeah?” 

“You should know . . . that being with you? I think it’s the closest thing to heaven I’ll ever get.” 

 

“And all the mistakes, the heartache, the pain of my past seems worthwhile now. After all, it’s what led me back to him.” 

 

“You’re a light in my life, Daze. I think I might have forgotten how to be happy until I met you.” 

“God, I’m so, so glad we met and beyond sorry for everything you’ve had to go through.” 

“I’m not. Meeting Jacks? Falling down that path with him? Maybe it was the start of a ripple effect, a cascade of events that all led me back to you. Right where I belong.” 

“Is this your way of saying that you love me?” 

“No, but this is—I love you, Daisy. And I don’t think I’ll ever stop.” 

“I love you, too. And I know I won’t stop.” 

 

“You got a tattoo for me?” 

“Nah, pretty sure it’s for me.” 

“Elio.” 

“I wanted you to be here, too. You’re part of my family now. My home. Bentley already has his spot.” I point to the little broken dog bone near my wrist. “It’s only right that you’re properly represented.” 

 

“My Daisy. My wildflower. My home.” 

I ABSOLUTELY love the concept of this book of traveling to the unknown and discovering new adventures. Like it is such a bittersweet feeling and I absolutely feel as if I’m experiencing everything the characters are feeling. Plus, who wouldn’t love a sci-fi book about space exploration and going on a new path that humans have never gone on before 🥲. Plus, I loved the alien creatures they came across 🤭. And as always, you can count Jennifer Chipman to write an amazing love story with the perfect spice. I highly recommend this if you love boy obsessed, a grumpy MMC, sci-fi vibes, age gap, and forbidden romance. Sylas is absolutely obsessed with her as soon as he lays his eye on her and hates it 🤭. I hope she turns this into a series so we get the side characters stories 🤞, and hopefully we’ll see more of the five year journey. 

*full review after book releases on 6/28🫶*

I received an e-arc and all my thoughts and opinions are truthful !!

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5 stars.

I absolutely recommend the tandem read once again. Especially since TOD was such a welcome reprieve from all the crazy drama in this book, and that’s not to say I didn’t enjoy this book, I did like it especially all the heartache I got at the end. 

Elide and Lorcan were so unexpected but amazing. Like this 500 year old, grumpy fae male fell under a sweet humans thrall, and Elide did nothing 🤭. And he was so down bad for her. But freaking Elide out her life in danger to save him 😭😭, and he was why did you do that, I wanted to go to perranth with you 😭😭. I’m so sad how it ended between them two at the end, I hope they’ll fix things 😞. 

I ABSOLUTELY loved Manon’s journey in this book. How she saved Dorian in the beginning and betrayed witch kind for him. How she attacked her grandmother to save Asterin and her thirteen. To find out she’s a crochan queen and rhe crochan she had killed was her sister 😳😭. And when she was injured, sweet Abraxos tried helping her 😩. Then, in some miracle Abraxos took Manon to Aelin and Dorian. And y’all, Manon and Dorian were so freaking hot together. I cannot wait for more between them 🤭.  But you guys, Abraxos went to find the thirteen and brought them back 😭😭.

Also, I loved the small bits of Lysandra and Aedion we got. Especially when Aedion told Lysandra that one day he was going to marry her 😭😭. But my heart broke when he got mad at her because she knew what Aelin was planning 😩. And now poor Lysandra has to take on that role, I can’t even imagine how that will work. 

And Aelin and Rowan were perfection. Their love declarations 😩. Their time together on the beach 🤭. Their teasing 😘👌. And the fact that Aelin knew they were mates all along but didn’t say anything because she didn’t want to worry him about Lyria 😭. And y’all, they had a secret wedding like Rhys and Feyre 😭😭. 

Y’all, my heart is breaking for Aelin. This entire time, she was meant to die. And to think Nehemia was willing to die, but it wasn’t her role to take on. And speaking of her, I cried when we got that memory of her 😭. But poor Aelin, she’s just been a puppet for those damned gods. But she is so amazing in how she raised her armies with Ansel that took a crazy amount of planning and  with the Ilias from the Silent.  Assassin’s. Aelin’s selflessness and compassion knows no bounds. She did everything she could to ensure her court had everything they needed to win the war without her. She’s been preparing to die, and to think poor lysandra had to hold onto that secret that whole time 😩. 

I am NOT ready for Kingdom of Ash. 

"You, I don't know. But I'd like to."

"I'm not on the market, unfortunately."

"Pity. She must be a rare, staggering beauty to make you so faithful."

Gods save them all.

"She must be clever and fascinating and very, very talented. She must be the most wonderful person who ever existed."

"She is indeed that. And more."

"Hmmm.”

"Because I am going to marry you. One day. I am going to marry you. I'll be generous and let you pick when, even if it's ten years from now. Or twenty. But one day, you are going to be my wife.”

"I love you. I am in love with you, Rowan. I have been for a while. And I know there are limits to what you can give me, and I know you might need time—"

"I love you. There is no limit to what I can give to you, no time I need. Even when this world is a forgotten whisper of dust between the stars, I will love you."

"You are mine."

"I'm yours.”

"And you love me.”

"To whatever end.”

“Beautiful. After a few weeks of eating, of safety, the terrified, gaunt young woman had somehow gone from pretty to beautiful. He'd ended his performance sooner than he'd intended, and by the time he looked up again, Marion was gone. Like a gods-damned dog, he'd picked up her scent among the crowd and followed her back to this tent.”

“I made a promise to protect you. I will not break it, Elide. I will always find you. I promise.”

"How many men have you been with?"

"Enough to know how to handle the needs of mortal princelings. To know what will make you beg."

"I don't think you can handle the sort of things I need, witchling. And I am never begging for anything again in my life."

"We've been a pair, you and I. A few days is nothing, my friend. You saved my life. Many times. I never thanked you for it. You and me. From now until the Darkness claims us.”

"I would hide you. In Perranth. If you... if you do what you need to do, and need somewhere to go... You would have a place there. With me."

“She had been forgotten—by everyone and everything. And still she had hoped. And still she had been kind to him. And still she had offered him a glimpse of peace in the time he'd known her. She had offered him a home.”

“Rowan had not possessed an army of his own to give to Aelin. To give to Terrasen. So he had won an army for her. Through the only things Aelin had claimed were all she wanted from him. His heart. His loyalty. His friendship.”

"And tell Rowan that I'm sorry I lied. But tell him it was all borrowed time anyway. Even before today, I knew it was all just borrowed time, but I still wish we'd had more it. Tell him he has to fight. He must save Terrasen, and remember the vows he made to me. And tell him... tell him thank you—for walking that dark path with me back to the light."

“Fight her. I am coming for you. Even if it takes me a thousand years. I will find you, I will find you, I will find you.”

“Prince Rowan Whitethorn Galathynius, Consort of the Queen of Terrasen, began the hunt to find his wife.”

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5 stars. I LOVED the tandem read!! I HIGHLY recommend it. Personally, I ABSOLUTELY LOVED tower of dawn and was itching to get back to it when it was time to switch to empire of storms. I enjoyed this a lot more than I thought I would because of all the instilled notions I had from other readers, but honestly their opinion is irrelevant because I loved seeing Chaol and Yrene’s relationship evolve especially since Yrene didn’t like him in the beginning or at least what he stood for. Like after five hours of Yrene healing Chaol which was basically pure torture for Chaol but wore out both of them, and Chaol was worried ABOUT HER and made sure she got rest and hydrated. I loved that she felt safer with Chaol than with the Kashin and the guards. And then, of course the best part about them was Yrene paying the ultimate price to save Chaol 😭😭. Plus, I loved the slow burn between Nesryn and Sartaq, I wish we had more moments of them 🥹. Y’all, the backstory about Maeve and the spiders was MIND BLOWING 😳. And the world building is insane. Falkan is the merchant that Celaena bought the spider silk from in the assassin’s blade and he is Lysandra's uncle… and he’s been looking for her ever since he’s known her existence 😭. I need them to meet and be happy, please. But y’all, chaol, yrene and nesryn did it, they’re bringing the armies 👏👏. 

“Yrene laughed, and the sound.. Beautiful as the sound was, it was nothing like the smile on her face. The delight. He'd never seen a face so lovely.”

“The reports left out some key infor-mation. It made me doubt their accuracy."

"What, exactly, did they fail to mention?"

"They didn't mention that you're beautiful."

"T'll race you.”

"The prize?"

"A kiss. When and where of my choosing."

"What do you mean where."

Chaol only grinned.

“Yrene was smiling, and then she was laughing, as if she could not contain it inside her. Chaol thought it was the most beautiful sound he'd ever heard. And that this moment, flying together over the sands, devouring the desert wind, her hair a golden-brown banner behind her ...Chaol felt, perhaps for the first time, as if he was awake. And he was grateful, right down to his very bones, for it.”

"Good luck to anyone who tries to go after Rowan Whitethorn."

"Because Aelin will burn them to ash?"

"Because Rowan Whitethorn will always be the person who walks away from that encounter. Not the assailant."

“Like Hasar, she isn't an easy person to be with, to understand. Aelin frightens everyone. But not him. I think that's why she fell in love with him, against her best intentions. Rowan beheld all Aelin was and is, and he was not afraid."

"I had your initials carved onto it."

"Mountains. And seas.”

"So you never forget that you climbed them and crossed them. That you—only you— got yourself here."

"I will cherish it always. No matter what may befall the world. No matter the oceans, or mountains, or forests in the way."

“Here, in the heart of a foreign land... Here, with her, he was home.”

"I heard the spies' stories of you. The fearless Balruhni woman in Adarlan's empire. Neith's Arrow. And I knew ...I loved you before I ever set eyes on you.”

"Do not think about attempting to lift me off this horse, or carry me, or anything."

"Anything?"

"Yes, anything. It's likely because of anything that you're limping worse than before."

"Then you'd better heal me, Yrene Towers, because I plan to do a great deal of anything with you tonight."

"Then it is a good thing, Yrene Towers, that I love you as well. From the moment you walked into the sitting room that first day. I think I knew, even then."

"I was a stranger."

"You looked at me without an ounce of pity. You saw me. Not the chair or the injury, You saw me. It was the first time I felt ... seen. Felt awake, in a long time."

“Hers. He was hers, Yrene wanted to crow at them. This beautiful, brave, selfless man—he was hers. And she was going home with him.”

"I wanted to heal you.”

"You did. Yrene, in every way that truly matters. You did."

"I told him that I planned to lead the rukhin against Erawan, with or without his consent."

"He asked me why."

"I hope you told him that the fate of the world might depend upon it."

"I did. But I also told him that the woman I love now plans to head into war. And I intend to follow her."

"We will go to war, Nesryn Faliq. And when we shatter Erawan and his armies, when the darkness is at last banished from this world .. Then you and I will fly back here. Together. And so we shall remain for the rest of our days."

"I suppose I don't need my little note any longer."

"Why?"

"Because I am not alone. And because I found my courage."

“Every step. Every curve into darkness. Every moment of despair and rage and pain. It had led him to precisely where he needed to be. Where he wanted to be. A moment of kindness. From a young woman who ended lives to a young woman who saved them.”

“Chaol smiled back at his wife, at the light he'd unknowingly walked toward his entire life, even when he had not been able to see it.”

⭐️⭐️⭐️.75 stars. Even though Eli and Ava weren’t my favorite couple in the series, I still really liked them and appreciated their love. Like Ele wasn’t really the one for pretty words and often love declarations, but he showed his love through his actions. Like he always put her physical and mental health above his, removed any triggers that would cause an episode, including showing his face and the stab wound. And then he gave her everything he could, never reprimanded her for spending his money, placed her pink touch everywhere, helped her get over her drinking problem (even though it was an absurd way to do it), and visited her every day for months at the mental institution. He has her letter that she write him six years ago memorized 😳, and he always took her to restaurants she wanted to try even though he doesn’t trust anyone’s cooking and sacrificed himself eating. Like is he better than Killian or Nikolai? No, but there’s no doubt that he loves her. 

I do wish we saw more of the previous couples especially Killian and Glyndon since this was the last book of this world. But I absolutely loved seeing Ariella and Remi. Like Ariella’s obsession with Remi is EVERYTHING. Am I the only one who is glad she isn’t writing their book?? Because she typically writes darker romances and I don’t see Remi or Ariella having an ounce of darkness like everyone else. Plus, I don’t want it to be another Ronan situation where he’s the sunshiney character but she made him like everyone else. 

The voice actors were AMAZING!! They didn’t just repeat the words, they fully ACTED everything seemed so realistic. It’s exactly what I’ve been looking for in audiobooks. 

“Eli King has been my damnation ever since I figured out what that word meant.”

“My Remi is different. He’s lovable, a gentleman, and every woman’s dream man. He just needs a little push to see the love of his life. Aka me.”

“You’re not going to give up, are you?”

“Only after my ring is on his finger.”

“Jesus. You’re thinking of marriage at eighteen?”

“I’ve loved him since I was eleven. That’s seven years too late, if you ask me.”

“You know me. I love giving attention to admirers.”

“So I’m one of the admirers now?”

“Clearly. Or you wouldn’t be following me around like a simp. Sorry, you’re not my type.”

“Is this the part where I get on my knees and beg?”

“I’m afraid that won’t cut it.”

“How about if I send flowers and a box of chocolates?”

“Unoriginal. Try harder.”

“If I cry into my pillow?”

“Only if I get to witness it personally.”

“So I have a shot. Fantastic.”

“I’m high maintenance.”

“Just the way I like it.”

“I have extremely expensive tastes.”

“Good thing I come from old money and I’m rich enough to outshine a few countries’ GDP.”

“I’ll drive you crazy.”

“Nothing new there.”

“I don’t like you.”

“That’s because you love me.”

“In your damn dreams. I’m way out of your league.”

“I can rope you back in if I choose to.”

“Did you gain on any stock investments today?”

“Certainly.”

“That explains the celebration happening beneath me.”

“You should see Nikolai’s face when I steal Bran’s attention and purposefully cockblock him. That could be the stuff of an interesting psychological thriller. But enough about my stunning adventures, dear cousin. Did you hear the news?”

“About your pending assassination by your fiancée’s mafia family? Already booked the coffin. Will put some drops in my eyes and pretend to shed a tear as they lower you into the ground.”

“The Russians love me—like everyone who has to the honor to encounter my godly presence.”

“Tell me you find me beautiful.”

“I find you so extremely beautiful, it hurts to look at you sometimes.”

“More beautiful than your ex-girlfriends?”

“I’ve never had a girlfriend and even if I had, they wouldn’t hold a candle to you.”

“She’s a beautiful rose with mesmerizing energy that intoxicates the flies circling her, but like all roses, her stem is crowded with thorns. It’s me. I’m the thorns.”

“Rems! Help me.”

“I’m afraid I have temporary loss of hearing. Oh my, better check with my GP. Shit’s serious.”

“Remi! Are you blind, too?”

“No, I ain’t seen nothing. I ain’t seen nothing. Matter of fact, I’m blind in my left eye and forty-three percent blind in my right eye. I don’t see much of nothing. Matter of fact, I can’t even see you, sir.”

“Are you quoting a meme? You damn traitor!” 🤣🤣

“Did you wake up today and decide to transform my life into hell?”

“Don’t be silly. I wake up every day with those thoughts.”

“What’s the restaurant? Maybe we’ll join.” (Cole)

“And start a world war?” (Silver)

“I will behave.” (Cole)

“You said that the last time before you locked Eli out of the house.”

“It wasn’t on purpose, butterfly. I genuinely mistook him for a cockroach. Not my fault he has more resemblance to vermin instead of humans.”

“Princess, tell me. I promise not to punch him.” He pauses. “More than three times.”

“Where’s Mia?”

“In the States. I only came for a few days.”

“Oh God. So we get you without a leash?”

“In my full glory, Barbie. Full glory.”

“Pass.”

“Blasphemy! My lordship is the hallmark of partying. You might dress like me, talk like me, and try to be the next best thing, but it’s not quite me.”

“Stop stealing Eminem’s lines.”

“Was it something we said? What triggered you? Baby. You need to tell me so I can remove the potential hazard.”

“Everything is a potential hazard for me.”

“Then I’ll remove everything.”

“Don’t be sweet. I can’t take it.”

“I’m anything but sweet. I’m a menace.”

“That you are.”

“Name two happy memories.”

“When Dad sat me down and told me I was born different and I have no reason to feel ashamed of it. In fact, I should be as proud of it as he is of me.”

“I love your dad.”

“He’s married.”

“And so am I. Get your head out of the gutter, bro.”

“I’m not your bro. I’m your husband.”

“What’s your second happy memory?”

“The day we got married.”

“She’s the exception to my rules. The discrepancy in my perfectly written novel. The mutation to my biology.”

“This woman has been my everything since I was eight years old. Over four decades later and she’s still my safe space just like I’m hers.” (Cole 🥹)

Xander: Tell me about it, Captain. I was hoping my Cecy would get bored by now, but she’s planning to marry the lizard.

Aiden: You took said lizard on a fishing trip, just the two of you. Just admit that you like Jeremy just like Levi loves that tattooed guy.

Ronan: Sorry I’m late. I know you miss me. Hey @Cole.Nash, please roll out the red carpet and thank your lucky stars. My beautiful catch of a son, Remi, wants to marry that hellion daughter of yours, Ari. I accept dowry in the form of a few buildings.

Cole: Over my dead fucking body.

Aiden Told you it was coming. RIP.

Xander: *brings popcorn*

Levi: What can I say? Our children take after us.

“You have already captured my heart, body, and soul, Ava. I have no clue when it started, but at some point, my possessiveness and obsessiveness with you turned into this inferno of emotions where I was prepared to lose you if it meant protecting you. That’s when I realized I was in love with everything about you, whether it’s your obsession with pink, candy floss, or cheesy books and films. The lack of you has stripped my world of color and made me realize you’re my sole light in the darkness.”

“I’m proud of you, beautiful. I know these past five months were hard, but you did so well.”

“I did it for me, but also for you. For us. Thank you for being there every night. For being so supportive even when I pushed you away. It means so… so much to me.”

“I’ll always be there.”

“Even if I get worse?”

“Especially if you get worse.”

“Even if I don’t want you?”

“Even then. Though you wanted me since you were a kid. I doubt that will ever change.”

“Gotta follow Cecy and make sure she gives me the flowers. See? I’m working hard for our future.”

He tries to hide a smile but fails miserably. Ari grins back, kisses him on the cheek, and then rushes behind the newlyweds.

“I’m so happy, sometimes, I believe this is a simulation and I’ll wake up to my harsh reality one day.”

“You’re real. We are real, baby.”

“I know, but I want more.”

“Anything. If you ask for the moon, I’ll lay it at your feet.”

“Thank you, baby.”

“What for?” “Thank you for loving me, for giving me these precious babies, the daft dog, and the diva cat. Thank you for everything you’ve done for me, even when I was completely unaware of my surroundings. Thank you for your patience, your unconditional support, and for seeing and treating me as normal. Just thank you for gifting me with this beautiful life.”

“I wouldn’t have it with anyone else.”

“I love you, Mr. King.”

“And I love you, Mrs. King.”

Now. Forever. She’ll always be my wife. Mine.

⭐6 stars. Wow. This was absolutely insane. I have never read a more fleshed out series than this one. Every single detail has a purpose, the way everything leads up to something else, it's one big domino effect. Like the need inside me for these characters to have their happy ending is crazy. And the evolution of each character not only throughout this book, but from the first time we met them is absolutely insane.

beware of spoilers

Like oh my gosh, poor Dorian. He was going through it. Like he was still in there but he was so lost and he couldn’t even remember his own name 😭😭. Plus, the worst part was when Aelin was asking him for any sign that he was still in there, and he tried so hard to tell her but he couldn’t. All until, he saw the most beautiful woman he’s ever seen, Manon. Like I knew it happened, but to actually read about him coming back to life even for that small interaction was mind blowing. And then when he FINALLY came back, I swear my heart stopped for a second and jumped for joy. Then, as if he hadn’t gone through enough, he got one freaking huge truth bomb dropped on him by his father!!! Like WHAAATTT??? Oh gosh, the poor king 😭😭. Everything he did was for HIS SON, the few times he gained control back of his body. 

Then with Chaol. I understand why people were annoyed with him, but I don’t understand the hate. Like don’t get me wrong, I was absolutely enraged when he said every bad thing that happened in Rifthold was Aelin’s fault, basically called her a ticking time bomb, and then a MONSTER?? I was flabbergasted. But then after that he grew so much. Like I think Chaol is the most realistic character who doesn’t always have the perfect reactions or decisions, he is just a human. He was just afraid of all this change even though he was 100% for it, but fear can do crazy things to you. Then when it all mattered, he was there for Aelin, supporting her, understanding her, helping her and Dorian especially at the end when facing the king, ready to sacrifice his life. And then when he finally got to see Dorian again, ugh my heart took a hit, especially when Dorian told him that he never did anything wrong and to hurry up and get healed so they can rule Adarlan together 😭😭. I swear they better get their happy ending, to be by each other’s side for the rest of their life.

Y’all Lysandra?? Oh gosh, I’m so glad we got to see a new side of her, the side Sam got to see and Celaena didn’t see. Like the story of how she helped Evangeline 🥲. And how she had nobody after Sam and Wesley were killed 😭. Then, we find out she’s a full on shape shifter?? And she got stuck in her current form when magic was banned and she can’t remember how she originally looked, that hurt more than I thought it would. But I was absolutely living for the new friendship between her and Aelin. Because Aelin deserves a female friend that will stay 😭And the fact that she came back for everyone before magic was returned, oh my goodness, she’s amazing. Plus, she was so cute when she saw Rowan and Aelin kissing and she was like “I’m going to have that one day” 😭😭. I can’t wait.

Of course, one of the best relationships in this book was Aedion and Aelin. Like the amount of loyalty he had for her for 10 years and it never once waivered. Like that is unconditional love if I ever saw it. But my heart broke for him when he found out that Rowan had made the blood oath to Aelin because his entire life, he looked forward to it, it was his life’s purpose, that sacred act belonged to him and to find out it went to someone else, broke him 🥺. But then we find out Gavriel is his father?? Wow. Plus, I loved towards the end when Lysandra would chase after him in her ghost leopard form 🤣.

Then the obvious stars of this book were Aelin and Rowan. Both separately and together. Like the way Aelin stepped into her role as Queen was perfect even though the poor girl was overwhelmed at times until Rowan came. Because as soon as they were reunited, how lively she became was utterly amazing. Like she didn’t even light up this much when she saved Aedion, but with Rowan, she was an entirely new person. Like a weight was literally taken off her shoulders and she was able to be just Aelin and he would be there right by her side. And then she had so many iconic moments in this book. Like how she set up a trap for Lorcan because he was following her, she used the dead arm of the wyrdhound to wave at Rowan and said it could be a back scratcher, wearing her tiny nightgowns to tease Rowan, going to sam’s grave 🥲, manipulating Arobynn’s will, the fight with Manon, saving Manon, paying off Lysandra’s debt, left the eye of elena with chaol with ultimately saved his life, putting the ring on dorian, working with dorian to defeat the king, telling all of rifthold everything, giving Lysandra a territory in Terrasen officially making her a part of her court, and finally returning home 😭. And then all the tension, the teasing,and just the relationship growing between her and Rowan was perfection 😘🤌. Like she was making Rowan SWEAT with the nightgowns, the undergarment comment, and teasing him to the point he had to pour cold water all over himself 🤣. But the hints at the mate bond between them?? But Rowan had his iconic moments too like when he placed a stone at Sam's grave 😭, told Arobynn thank you for the oil, and how he was always there for Aelin, no matter what.

And I was absolutely loving the Manon, the 13, Elide and Kaltain chapters. Especially when Abraxos saw Elide and immediately loved Elide, and acted like a happy puppy when she’s around and protects her 🥹. And finding out that Kaltain had killed the valg prince was so badass. But what absolutely shocked me was that one of the wyrdkeys was INSIDE Kaltain’s arm??? Wow. I’m so glad she got revenge on the people of Morath, if only she took Perrington with her. But I’m glad she’s finally at peace, her and Roland. And as her final acts, she saved Elide’s life and asked her to give the wyrdkey to Celaena as a repayment of the kindness that Aelin had shown her in the dungeons all that time ago. And y’all the story about Asterin, her hunter and her witchling 😢. Oh gosh. I’m so glad she told Manon. And I absolutely fell in love with Manon when she went back to save Elide and when she visited Dorian 😭. I NEED more scenes of them together because we only got one interaction and that final one.

Once again, this book was absolutely amazing. The goodbye between Chaol, Dorian and Aelin was so bittersweet 😭, and I can’t imagine what it will be like when they’re all reunited again 😩.

Favorite quotes/scenes:

"Tell me what I must do to atone; tell me to crawl over hot coals, to sleep on a bed of nails, to carve up my flesh. Say the word, and it is done. But let me care for you as I once did, before... before that madness poisoned my heart. Punish me, torture me, wreck me, but let me help you. Do this small thing for me— and let me lay the world atyour feet."

“Monster. And yet...For her friends, for her family, she would gladly be a monster. For Rowan, for Dorian, for Nehemia, she would debase and degrade and ruin herself.”

"When you shatter the chains of this world and forge the next, remember that art is as vital as food to a kingdom. Without it, a kingdom is nothing, and will be forgotten by time. I have amassed enough money in my miserable life to not need any more— so you will understand me clearly when I say that wherever you set your throne, no matter how long it takes, I will come to you, and I will bring music and dancing."

"You soft-hearted worm. A crippled leg and a few chains, and you're in love?"

"Whatever you had to do to survive, whatever you did from spite or rage or selfishness... I don't give a damn. You're here—and you're perfect. You always were, and you always will be."

"This city still needs protecting.”
"Or maybe this city should burn. Maybe the world should burn.”

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.
"Who is that?"
"Rowan."

"Is there a specific color you'd like me to wear? If I'm going to scandalize you, I should at least do it in something you like."
"You're a menace. Gold. Not yellow— real, metallic gold."
"You're out of luck. I would never own anything so ostentatious."

That gods-damned nightgown. Shit. He was in such deep, unending shit.

"Even before I knew who you were, Aelin, I knew that what you were working toward.. It was worth it."
"What is?"
"A world where people like me don't have to hide."

"I miss you. Every day, I miss you. And I wonder what you would have made of all this. Made of me. I think—I think you would have been a wonderful king. I think they would have liked you more than me, actually. I never told you how I felt. But I loved you, and I think a part of me might always love you. Maybe you were my mate, and I never knew it. Maybe I'll spend the rest of my life wondering about that. Maybe I'll see you again in the Afterworld, and then I'll know for sure. But until then ... until then I'll miss you, and I'll wish you were here."

“I'm beginning to admire Lysandra more and more. Seventeen-year-old Aelin must have been a delight to deal with.”
“I would pay good money to see seventeen-year-old Aelin meet seventeen-year-old Rowan.”
“Seventeen-year-old Rowan wouldn't have known what to do with you. He could barely speak to females outside his family.”
“Liar—I don't believe that for a second.”
‘It's true. You would have scandalized him with your nightclothes— even with that dress you have on.”
“He would probably have been even more scandalized to learn I'm not wearing any undergarments beneath this dress.”
The table rattled as Rowan's knee banged into it.

“She would find that love again—one day. And it would be deep and unrelenting and unexpected, the beginning and the end and eternity, the kind that could change history, change the world.”

“But if it was death separating us ...I would find you. I don't care how many rules it would break. Even if I had to get all three keys myself and open a gate, I would find you again. Always.”

"I want to take my time with you— to learn... every inch of you. And this apartment has very, very thin walls. I don't want to have an audience when I make you moan, Aelin."

"When we get back, remind me to prove you wrong about every thought that just went through your head."
"Oh?"
"I'll even let you decide how I tell you: with words"—-his eyes flicked once to her mouth-"or with my teeth and tongue."

"Is there a reason you're smiling at me, or shall I interpret it as a death wish?”
"Do I need a reason to smile at a beautiful woman?"

"But would you bleed red, or black?"
“I’ll bleed whatever color you tell me to."

"Why? Why did you save her?"
"Because that golden-haired witch, Asterin...She screamed Manon's name the way I screamed yours.How can I take away somebody who means the world to someone else? Even if she's my enemy. I thought you were dying. It seemed like bad luck to let her die out of spite. And...Falling into a ravine seemed like a pretty shitty way to die for someone who fights that spectacularly."
"You make me proud to serve you."

"Even when we're apart tomorrow, I'll be with you every step of the way. And every step after—wherever that may be."

"You make me want to live, Rowan. Not survive; not exist. Live."

“The message on the wall had only been one sentence. Payment for a life debt. One sentence just for Aelin Galathynius; one sentence that changed everything: WITCH KILLER- THE HUMAN IS STILL INSIDE HIM.”

"For Terrasen"
"For our family."
"For Marion."
"For us. Ten years of shadows, but no longer. Light up the darkness, Majesty."
"Let's go rattle the stars.”

“Dorian. His name was Dorian. Dorian Havilliard, and he was the Crown Prince of Adarlan. And Celaena Sardothien—Aelin Galathynius, his friend... she had come back for him.”

Aelin extended her hand— a question and an offer and a promise.
"To a better future.”
"You came back.”
They joined hands. So the world ended. And the next one began.

"You make me want to live, too, Aelin Galathynius. Not exist— but live. I spent centuries wandering the world, from empires to kingdoms to wastelands, never settling, never stopping— not for one moment. I was always looking toward the horizon, always wondering what waited across the next ocean, over the next mountain. But I think... I think that whole time, all those centuries, I was just looking for you."

She gazed at the closed bedroom door, as if she could still see the prince and queen inside.
"That. That is what I am going to find one day."
"A gorgeous Fae warrior?" Aedion said, shifting a bit.
Lysandra chuckled, wiping away her tears, and gave him a knowing look before walking away.

"You both came back.”
"You pulled me out of Endovier. I figured I could return the favor."
"What do I do now? What do I do?"
"You light up the darkness."

"If I have to be stuck with king duty, then you're going to be stuck right there with me. So go to the Torre Cesme and heal fast, Chaol. Because we've got work to do."

"There is no one else I'd want guarding my back. If my people cannot see the worth of a woman who sold herself into slavery for the sake of a child, who defended my court with no thought for her own life, then they are not my people. And they can burn in hell."
"What's the territory called?"
"I have no idea. Lysandria' sounds good. So does 'Lysandrius, or maybe 'Lysandraland."
"You are out of your mind."

"What was it like? To love."
"It was like dying a little every day. It was like being alive, too. It was joy so complete it was pain. It destroyed me and unmade me and forged me. I hated it, because I knew I couldn't escape it, and knew it would forever change me. And that witchling... I loved her, too. I loved her in a way I cannot describe—other than to tell you that it was the most powerful thing I've ever felt, greater than rage, than lust, than magic." 

"So here we are.”
"The end of the road.”
"No. The beginning of the next."

She smiled. To her surprise, a king smiled back.
“Send me any good books that you read.”
"Only if you do the same."

And the smell—of pine and snow... How had she never realized that Rowan's scent was of Terrasen, of home? Rowan came close enough to graze her shoulder and murmured, "I feel as if I've been looking for this place my entire life."

“Aelin ran a hand over the rough rock, and the sun-warmed stone tingled as if in greeting. Then she stepped beyond the stone. And at long last, Aelin Ashryver Galathynius was home.”

After tragic events occur spurred by her stalker, Lyla lives a sheltered life for the next two years. She hasn’t let anyone into her life other than her best friends, Prescott and Marissa, until she catches Lachlan Duke’s eye. The star hockey player who doesn’t date, doesn’t chase girls, doesn’t kiss, until her.

Lachlan and Lyla are 100% soulmates coded. He was the one person besides her two best friends that she let into her life. He made her feel things she hadn’t felt in a long time, and vice versa. She woke something in him that he never knew he had in him. They gave each other purpose, love, and security. Then, of course, the first woman who grasps his attention makes him an obsessed stalker (very different from her genuine stalker). And then one of the best things about this book was the found family and the support system that Lyla had. Marissa and Prescott were totally her rocks. They were there for her through every horrendous thing that happened to her and never left, and always gave her what she wanted/needed. Seriously, everyone needs a Marissa and Prescott. I’m so happy Lyla and Lachlan got their HEA after that time jump and got to continue their dreams and make new dreams on the way 👏. Not only that but I’m glad they reunited with their respective fathers and started to heal their relationship.

If you want to read this book, I highly recommend it especially if you like hockey romance, an obsessed & possessive MMC, and angst. Plus, it’s not dark as the book looks or as the blurb portrays it. There are some dark themes, so always check your triggers before reading. But I hope you enjoy the book !!

Favorite quotes/scenes:

“YOU GOOGLED LYLA? Why?”
Because she’s beautiful and funny when she wants to be, but mostly because she makes me feel something I’ve never felt before, and I’m intrigued by her.

“I was starved for her. Not just her body, but her. Her attention, her secrets, her smiles, her laughter. Anything. Everything. I wanted to break inside her brain and rummage through her memories, worries, fears, likes, and dislikes. Fucking everything.”

“When you laugh, when you smile. . .It’s the most beautiful thing I’ve ever see.”

“Because the world would be empty without you. Because we wouldn’t have met, and my soul would be lost for the rest of my life, searching for yours.”

“Hey, Lach.”
“Hm?”
“I remembered what I was going to tell you.”
“What is it?”
“I’m always numb unless you’re around. You make me feel.”
“Fuck, Lyla James.”

“You fuck me up, Lyla James.”
I pulled back and met his eyes, smiling. It must’ve been his favorite thing about me, because every time I smiled, it looked like the world stopped for him, which made me want to do it all the time, only for him.
“You’ve ruined me, Lachlan Duke. Ruined.”

“I’ve come to the realization that Lyla James is the prototype and I don’t do knockoffs.”

“Look at me now. Mr. I Would Never Chase Anyone, and I’m standing on a soccer field in this hot ass weather, in a city I’ve never been to, chasing someone who is currently acting like I don’t exist. Ain’t that some shit.”

“Jesus Christ, Lachlan. You can’t just scare off every man who comes near me.”
“No? Watch me.”

“He’s robbed me of everything now—my thoughts, my emotions, my words, my freedom, and my sanity.”

“I know I could live until I’m a hundred, and I’d never be able to get him out of my system. The connection we share runs deeper than any animosity we may feel. The chains that bind us are too strong. The only thing that could extinguish this is death.”

“Messy hair, no makeup, in an oversized shirt, and she’s still the most beautiful woman I’ve ever seen. So fucking perfect.”

“He can’t do that. He can’t give up hockey for me.”
“Lyla. My brother would give up his inheritance, hockey, kidneys, and testicles if it meant he’d have you. I wish that was hyperbole, but it’s the truth.”

“You could never be my nightmare, Lachlan Duke. I love you more than I hate anything.”

“If Henry really loves you, he’ll understand. Tell him to put a fucking pin on it. You’ll come back in a couple of years.”
“Put a pin on it?”
“Yeah, old white rich men love saying shit like that.”
“You’re my favorite person in the world, you know that?”
“Good, because you’re mine.”

“From the day I met you. . . You captured my attention the moment I met you. I think I might have fallen in love with you that night, standing against that wall, without even realizing it. I’ve never chased anyone before you came along. I went after you the way I only go after a fucking hockey puck, and I don’t regret it. I’ll chase you forever, around the world if I have to, but I hope you don’t make me. Stay with me forever, Lyla James. Marry me.”

“I don’t know if there’s something that goes beyond love, but whatever it is, that’s what I feel for you.”

“She was numb when I met her, closed off to everyone, and somehow, she let me in. Somehow, she decided to put her trust in me. Me. I’m going to spend the rest of my life protecting this woman.”

“You are, by far, the most difficult person I’ve ever come across in my entire life. You shut me out repeatedly. You made me chase you, which is ludicrous. You were rude, mean, standoffish. . .”
“Okay. I think we need to go over what wedding vows are supposed to be like.”
“But then you let me in. Me. Even after you knew what my reputation was, you gave me a shot. You are the most selfless, brave, loving person I know. And you’re funny as fuck. You quickly became my favorite person on the planet, and I became addicted to you. I’m in love with you. I’m obsessed with you. I promise to do everything in my power to keep you happy, so you can be mine forever.”

“When I met your mother, she told me that love has no logic. You’re the reason I believe that. You’re relentless, annoying, cocky, possessive, and hands down, the most insane person I’ve ever met in my life. But you make me feel safe, cherished, loved, and wanted. I walked around completely numb to everything before you came along and made me feel. You understand me in ways that I can’t explain. You’ve ruined me for anyone else. You’re my best friend, my husband, my everything, forever.”

"Thank you.”
"For what?"
"For loving me,” he says, kissing my hand. “For choosing me.” Another kiss. “For never leaving me.” Another kiss. “For being my best friend.” Another kiss. “For this baby.” Another kiss. “For being you. For everything. Thank you."

"You're the best thing that's ever happened to me.”
"Fuck, Lyla.”
“I mean that. I’ll always mean that. You fuck me up, Lachlan Duke.”

For all the sleepy girls out there who can’t seem to shut off their brains.


kaia and holden: boy obsessed, he falls first and harder, rivals, and takes care of her when she’s sick tropes will always hit. especially when she had disliked him and he’s been obsessed with her since he laid his eyes on her in freshman year but played into the rivalry just so he has her attention 😩. and this man never made a move on her because he thought Elio—her best friend—was her boyfriend, so he never liked Elio and would always glare at him 🤣. i love this man 😭. then when she finally gave him the time of day outside of their rivalry, he held onto it and never let go. like as soon as he heard she was looking for a hookup, he cockblocked her and offered himself up instead. then as their relationship developed, he didn’t let her push him away, he always stayed despite arguments. and typically when there is a third act breakup, he didn’t let it happen, he was like I’m not breaking up with you so if you’re looking for an out it won’t be from me. also when she was sick, she was mean to him, but he didn’t let that sway him, and I feel like that’s what all girls want, for the guy to stay even when they’re being difficult. but that’s not to say there was miscommunication because there was none, when she needed time alone she told him so she wouldn’t go off on him, and when he was feeling neglected by her, he told her. and then one of my favorite moments was when she was sick he buys her soup, pedialyte, and an orchid because he wants the plant to last and he remembers that her favorite color is purple from a hair clip she wore freshman year 😭😭. like what the hell, he is so thoughtful, and the fact that he remembered that because he’s been obsessed with her for so long 😭😭. i need me a holden. seriously a man who is patient, resilient, thoughtful and obsessed with me 😩.

i’m excited to read elio’s book and hopefully see more of luca and harper 👏👏.

Favorite quotes/scenes:

“She’s in her element now, confidence radiating from head to toe—from her wide smile to her self-assured posture to the notable pep in her step. She’s a fucking vision, isn’t she?”

“You know, I missed you last week.”
“What?” 
“I missed talking to you. This ignoring shit you’ve been doing? Yeah, it doesn’t really work for me.”
“Holden.”
“Kaia. Look, if you’re pissed at me, then just tell me. Fight with me. Yell at me. But don’t shut me out. I don’t like seeing you everywhere, knowing that you’re just gonna look the other way.”

“You still think I don’t like you? Kaia, I fucking adore you.”
“What?”
“I admire the hell out of you. I think you’re smart, funny, witty, beautiful. There’s never a dull moment when we’re around each other.”

“Karras. Let me try again for you. Let me be that guy.”
“That guy?”
“If you’re struggling, I wanna be the guy you call for help. The one who can make you forget about everything else and just . . . be in the moment.”
“So, what you’re saying is that you want to be my last resort?”
“As long as I’m your something.”

Kaia: what’s with the candy?
Holden: just something to sweeten your day. besides, it’s all I had in my pocket. well, that and another condom but it didn’t quite hit the same
Kaia: you really know how to make a girl feel special
Holden: thought you might eat it and think of me. you know, something else to fill your mouth with
Kaia: gross
Holden: you’re welcome

“I hear flowers always make girls feel better.”
“So, you got me a potted plant.” “Well, I was gonna get you a bouquet of roses. You know, thorns, since you’re so damn prickly. But I figured this lasts longer. Besides, I already know you love the color purple.”
“And how would you know that?”
“You used to rock a big purple clip in your hair.”
“Freshman year?”
“Yeah, I think so.”
“I haven’t worn my hair up in a claw clip for over two years. Not since I chopped it all off.”

“I want to wake up with her in the mornings and not have to worry about whether or not I crossed a line. I want to take care of her when she’s sick and not have to practically force her into letting me. I want to fight with her and not have to fear that she’ll never speak to me again. I want security. Trust. To be the one person she comes to when she’s in need.”

“There’s nothing fucking wrong with you, Kaia. All that shit you just listed—it’s what makes you human. Uniquely fucking perfect. I don’t like you in spite of who you are. I like every little piece that makes you whole. I’m not getting bored of you, ever, so don’t even let your mind take you there.”
“Are you sure?”
“If that’s what’s holding you back from giving this, us, a real shot, then let it be known—there’s not a world in which I do better than you. I want you, Kaia, every conceivable part of you. Tell me you want me, too.”

“I want this girl. I want her in all the ways that matter. I want to be the one she turns to when she’s feeling down, the one she laughs with, the one she dreams with. The one she trusts with every tiny secret and insecurity.”

“Being with him feels like the most natural thing in the world. He’s become my safe haven, my lighthouse in the storm.”

“She’s the epitome of perfection, and she’s all mine.”

“Kaia, baby, will you please be my girlfriend?”
“No.”
“Excuse me?”
“Ask me again later. Ask me again when it’s not an afterthought.”
“Impossible. Fucking. Girl.”

“I can perfectly envision our future stretching out before us, laid out in plain sight. It’s a fucking beautiful thing, unbreakable, and it reassures me that we’re ready to face whatever life has in store for us—together, no longer as adversaries, but as partners. In this life and the next.”

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.75 stars. 

Wow, the writing in this book was phenomenal. This is only the third book in the series sans TAB, and just how perfectly everything came together from the first book was crazy. Like the evolution of Celaena, Dorian and Chaol. The only issue I had with this book was that Celaena had fewer chapters because Dorian, Chaol, Aedion and Manon had their own chapters and I was aching to get Celaena's POV again. 

And finally we met Rowan. Y’all have no idea how I was aching for him because all I knew before starting this series was that Aelin and Rowan were together and to find out he doesn’t appear until the third book had me shook. Now the evolution of their relationship was the absolute best. This man went from punching her and saying "You would probably have been more useful to the world if you'd actually died ten years ago,” and "I don't care what you have been through or what you want to do with your life. The sooner you can sort out your whining and self-pity, the sooner I can be rid of you. You are nothing to me, and I do not care,” to being absolutely loyal and caring to her. Like this man almost walked into a scenario that guaranteed death all to try and get her back to safety. And then the best part of how their relationship came together was the blood oath. Like the amount of trust they have in each other is crazy. But one of the best things about Rowan was that he never cowered in her presence or vice versa. They were matched. Like even though I loved Celaena with both Dorian and Chaol, they were never meant for her or could handle her, but Rowan could. Plus, Dorian and Chaol were always surprised or horrified at Celaena’s murdery side (even though Chaol was more horrified), whereas Rowan was pleased by it. And of course, the best scene was when he saw her back and said “who did this to you?” And typically those kinds of moments don’t do anything for me but because they had started with such a strong dislike for each other to that was perfection 😘👌. Then when he started fussing, taking care of her and making her stay in his room made my heart all warm and fuzzy. And y’all, when he started brushing his hands through her hair *swoons*. And can they actually have wordless convos like Rhys and Feyre?? 

Y’all have no idea how happy I got when they mentioned the red haired queen in the waste lands!!!! Twice 👏👏. I CANNOT wait until she makes a reappearance and it better not be because Manon is going to try and take the land from her. But that is no hate towards Manon, I love her and Abraxos’ relationship 🥹. 

But y’all, my emotions were out the wringer in this book, more so than with Crown of Midnight. Like with the slave mines…the conductors…the musicians… I sobbed like a baby. Especially when the Valg were going through her memories and she had seen each of her deceased loved ones telling her to get up 😭😭, and when she finally accepted being Aelin and wanted to reclaim her kingdom but those were happy tears. And other than that, I cried for many more reasons. Sadness when Celaena told Rowan about Nehemia, and happiness when everyone in Erilea heard of the news of the return of Aelin Galathynius, the lost queen of Terrasen and hope was reignited. Like I couldn’t imagine the joy and hope everyone had felt when they heard that news after experiencing the horrors the King of Adarlan had incited. 

And y’all poor Dorian has been going through it these books. First he falls in love with an assassin that wanted her freedom more than him (as she should), had his friendship with Chaol and Celaena disappear, has to discover and control his magic all on his own with no support, has to prevent Celaena from killing Chaol, to see Celaena forced to another country, to have his friendship with his best friend wither away because of all of the changes in their life, forced to watch Sorcha's—the sweet healer he fell in love with—death, had to reveal his own power to save Chaol’s life, had to watch Aedion be dragged to the dungeons to wait for his execution to lure Aelin to the kingdom for her death, and to be a host for the Valg 😭. Like what the hell. Give this sweet man a break. But thankfully Chaol finally chose a side, chose Dorian and Aelin, gave up his title, his name, all to bring a better world. Like I was so happy. And of course, the best news, Aelin Galathynius is back to reclaim her kingdom and her people. 

I am prepared and not prepared for Queen of Shadows 🫣🫶. 

“Aelin would come back, and when she did...With every breath, Aedion felt that lingering scent wrapping tighter around his heart and soul. When she came back, he was never letting her go.”

Why are you crying, Fireheart?
It had been ten years-ten long years since she had heard her mother's voice. But she heard it then over the force of her weeping, as clear as if she knelt beside her.

"Because I am lost. And I do not know the way."

"How—how did you come back from that kind of loss?"

"I didn't. For a long while I couldn't. I think I'm still... not back. I might never be. But maybe. Maybe we could find the way back together."

"I think. I would like that very much."

"Together, then."

“Together.”

"My only wish is to see her again. Just once, if that's all the gods will allow me. If they grant me. more time than that, then I'll thank them every damn day of my life.”

"You cannot pick and choose what parts of her to love. Just as you cannot pick which parts of me you accept."

"Tell me which one of your little cadre is the handsomest, and if he would fancy me."

"The thought of you with any of my companions makes my blood run cold."

"They're that awful? Your kitty-cat friend looked decent enough."

"I don't think my kitty-cat friend would know what to do with you— nor would any of the others. It would likely end in bloodshed. They would likely have very little interest in you, as you'll be old and decrepit. soon enough and thus not worth the effort it would take to win you"

"Killjoy."

“And he'd returned to Celaena with chocolates, since he claimed to be insulted that she considered his absence a proper birthday present. She tried to embrace him, but he would have none of that, and told her as much. Still, the next time she used the bathing room, she'd snuck behind his chair at the worktable and planted a great, smacking kiss on his cheek. He'd waved her off and wiped his face with a snarl, but she had the suspicion that he'd let her get past his defenses.”

“She knew no one would ever replace Nehemia, and she never wanted anyone to, but Rowan made her feel... better. As if she could finally breathe after months of suffocating.”

“So I am staying. Because you are needed, and because I will follow you to whatever end."

"To whatever end?"

She nodded.

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

"If you like, you could be my friend."

"I have a friend. He is to be Lord of Anille someday, and the fiercest warrior in the land."

"Wear it, and know that you are loved, Fireheart—that you are safe, and it is the strength of this"— she placed a hand on her heart—"that matters. Wherever you go, Aelin, no matter how far, this will lead you home."

“She would remake the world-remake it for them, those she had loved with this glorious, burning heart; a world so brilliant and prosperous that when she saw them again in the Afterworld, she would not be ashamed. She would build it for her people, who had survived this long, and whom she would not abandon. She would make for them a kingdom such as there had never been, even if it took until her last breath. She was their queen, and she could offer them nothing less.”

They were carranam. He had come for her.

"To whatever end?"

He nodded. "I claim you, too, Aelin Galathynius."

"I have never told anyone this story. No one in the world knows it. But it's mine, and it's time for me to tell it. Once upon a time, in a land long since burned to ash, there lived a young princess who loved her kingdom ... very much."

"Eyllwe. Send word to Eyllwe. Tell them to hold on—tell them to prepare. Tell them it's time to fight back."

“There was not one soul who did not know that Aelin Galathynius was alive— and willing to stand against Adarlan. Across the White Fangs and the Ruhnns, all the way to the Western Wastes and the red-haired queen who ruled from a crumbling castle. To the Deserted Peninsula and the oasis-fortress of the Silent Assassins. Hooves, hooves, hooves, echoing through the continent, sparking against cobblestones, all the way to Banjali and the riverfront palace of the King and Queen of Eyllwe, still in their midnight mourning clothes. Hold on, the riders told the world. Hold on.

“Somewhere in Wendlyn, his friend was changing the world. She was fulfilling the promise she’d made him. She had not forgotten him, or any of them still here. And perhaps when they figured out a way to destroy that tower and free magic from his father's yoke, she would know her friends had not forgotten her, either. That he had not forgotten her.”

"One thought from me, and your city will burn."

"It is stone.”

"Your people aren't."

"Together, Fireheart. We'll find a way together. A court that will change the world. Say it, Aelin.”

"Do you promise to serve in my court, Rowan Whitethorn, from now until the day you die?"

"I do. Until my last breath, and the world beyond. To whatever end"

“The story of her love and loss now written on her: one line for her parents and uncle; one line for Lady Marion; and one line for her court and her people. On the smaller, shorter scars, were the stories of Nehemia and of Sam. Her beloved dead. No longer would they be locked away in her heart. No longer would she be ashamed.”

"I will not go to Anielle. And I will not serve you a moment longer. There is one true king in this room—there always has been. And he is not sitting on that throne. There is a queen in the north, and she has already beaten you once. She will beat you again. And again. Because what she represents, and what your son represents, is what you fear most: hope. You cannot steal it, no matter how many you rip from their homes and enslave. And you cannot break it, no matter how many you murder."

“Chaol had drawn his line—and Dorian was on his side of it. Chaol had called him his king. So revealing his power to his father did not frighten him. No, to save his friend, dying did not scare him one bit.”

“But there was a new sword at his side-an ancient king's blade, from a time when good men had served noble rulers and the world had prospered for it. He would see that world reborn, even if it took his last breath.”

"We're stronger together than apart."

"If I'd known you would be such a pain in the ass, I never would have let you swear that oath."

"I am going, Rowan. I will gather the rest of my court—our court—and then we will raise the greatest army the world has ever witnessed. I will call in every favor, every debt owed to Celaena Sardothien, to my parents, to my bloodline. And then… And then I am going to rattle the stars."

“She was Aelin Ashryver Galathynius, heir of two mighty bloodlines, protector of a once-glorious people, and Queen of Terrasen. She was Aelin Ashryver Galathynius— and she would not be afraid.”