House of Sky and Breath (Crescent City #2)

Favorite Quotes…

“It was one of his many gifts—making her laugh, even when the world seemed inclined to humiliate and shun her.”

“Ruhn Danaan knew three things with absolute certainty…”

“Males will always try to control the females who scare them. Marriage and breeding are their go-to methods.”

“It can be very lonely, to wear a crown.”

“Death is the only victor in war.”

“Our love is stronger than time, greater than any distance. Our love spans across stars and worlds. I will find you again. I promise.”

by Sarah J. Maas

4 out of 5 stars

Sarah J. Maas's "House of Sky and Breath," the second installment in the Crescent City series, is a whirlwind of emotions, plot twists, and character development. The book picks up where "House of Earth and Blood" left off, plunging us back into the lives of Bryce Quinlan and Hunt Athalar as they navigate a world teeming with magic, political intrigue, and dark secrets. While the book is a compelling read, offering a complex narrative and well-developed characters, it's the jaw-dropping ending that truly sets this book apart.

The characters in this sequel continue to evolve, and it's impossible not to get emotionally invested in them. Ruhn Danaan, in particular, emerges as a fan-favorite, his house becoming a sanctuary for a lovable band of misfits, including Declan, Flynn, Ithan, and Tharion. The dynamics among these characters add a layer of warmth and camaraderie to the story that is simply irresistible. Bryce and Hunt's relationship also continues to blossom, their banter and chemistry serving as the emotional core of the book.

The plot is intricate, filled with unexpected twists and turns that keep you on the edge of your seat. While some plot elements, like the identity of 'Agent Daybright,' may be predictable, the book throws more subtle curveballs that you never see coming. The story is a rollercoaster, with moments that make you want to put the book down and walk away, not because it's uninteresting, but because the tension is almost too much to bear.

Maas's writing continues to be eloquent and impactful. Her dialogues are sharp, often revealing deeper truths about her characters, while her descriptions are vivid, painting a clear picture of the world and the people who inhabit it. The pacing is generally well-balanced, there are moments where the story occasionally feels overstuffed with plot twists and character revelations. Danika, Bryce's supposed 'best friend,' seems to have an endless bag of secrets, which at times feels like a convenient plot device rather than a well-thought-out character trait.

In my opinion, it's the ending that truly steals the show. Without giving anything away, the final chapters are a testament in storytelling, pulling the rug out from under the reader in the most spectacular fashion. The ending is so shocking that it leaves you reeling, questioning everything you thought you knew about the characters and the vast world they inhabit.

In conclusion, "House of Sky and Breath" is a worthy sequel that offers a compelling narrative, complex characters, and an ending that will leave you stunned. While it has its flaws, they are minor in comparison to the book's many strengths. If you're a fan of Sarah J. Maas or just love a good fantasy tale, this series is a must-read. I cannot contain my excitement now for “House of Flame and Shadow” to be published in January 2024!

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