A Court of Thorns and Roses
Sarah J. Maas
by LJ Andrews
Elise Lysander has sacrificed everything—her birthright, her people, and her reputation—to stand beside Valen, the newly crowned fae king of a fractured realm. Yet, the peace they crave remains elusive as the shadow of war looms over their broken lands. While Elise is hailed by some as a savior, she remains a target for those who view her as a traitor to her own blood.
As the couple navigates the treacherous politics of Castle Ravenspire, they uncover long-buried secrets that reveal the true extent of their enemies' power. To survive, they must embark on a desperate mission: fulfilling a volatile demand from Valen’s imprisoned brother, dismantling a lethal prophecy held by Elise’s ruthless sister, and forging an uneasy alliance with a mysterious thief. Their survival hinges on more than just the edge of their blades; it requires navigating a web of betrayal where every choice carries the weight of a kingdom.
Amidst the chaos of looming battle, Elise and Valen fight to preserve a love that defies destiny. In this high-stakes conclusion, the line between salvation and total ruin blurs, forcing them to decide how much they are willing to lose to secure their future.
NoorIf I could give more stars I would! Epic end to the first part of this amazing saga!
"I thoroughly enjoyed the third and final of Valen and Elise's story in this amazing saga. This final installment in the trilogy was filled with epic adventure, gruesome battles, mysterious prophecies and curses, unlikely allies, and an unpredictable twist and welcome surprise! I absolutely loved Elise's character her. The definition of what a queen should be. She was fierce but fair. She was vulnerable but determined. She loves passionately and is willing to do anything for those she loves. Valen stole my heart again with his actions and words. His love for his family. For his people. For Elise! I especially love the trust and belief he always had in Elise to hold her own as a ruler and commander of armies. Valen and Elise's story came to a satisfying HEA. The writing and world building were phenomenal and kept me intrigued and hooked. I really loved the found family aspect. I really liked all the different side characters and personalities. I am looking forward to the next part of the series where we explore the other kingdoms and see what the fates have in store for them. I would recommend this book to all romantasy lovers. It has everything! And I totally see myself rereading this! ["
November 23, 2024 Verified Purchase
FanniWhat a wonderful end to the Northern Kingdom saga
"I have to tell you... I didn't think I would enjoy this world and this story this much when I first picked up the first book. And now, at the end of the first part of this huge saga, I intrigued to see what else is there in this world. What other mischief and trouble and adventure and magic is there in the Eatern, Southern, and Western Kingdoms and how all this comes to and end. But let's stay with Crown of Blood and Ruin for now. This is the end of Elise and Valen's journey, the end and reckoning of the Northern Kingdom. Without much spoilers we get a new, reluctant king, a long awaited queen, dark secrets and curses buried in the ground of Etta for centuries, an utterly amazing Guild of Shadows, endless scheming and strategizing against a false king and for the silently suffering people of the land, a battle worth all the wait for it and an ending I am sure you would never expect. Elise finally grew into her role as a strong lady who fights with her own hands and blades for freedom and peace. Valen, though a reluctant leader, is great at what he does, and his devotion to Elise is true Fae behaviour. The book didn't really have a minute to catch my breath between all the quests and battles going on. I was practically glued to the screen of my e-reader to finally finish this story. I also love how interconnected this saga is. How intricately the stories of other kingdoms, the fate of other characters who might still need to fight their own battles, are set up already in these books. I am very much impressed by the thought and strategy put into the story by the author. I can't wait to see what's to come! The Nightrender's storyline is quite a mistery for me now, but I'm sure, in the upcoming trilogy about him and Malin will hold as much excitement as Elise and Valen's story held in this one. Great story, great characters, much focus on family love and loyalty, gruesome battles, and mysterious curses describe the first three books of The Broken Kingdoms series. And I enjoyed myself a lot reading it! ["
February 6, 2023 Verified Purchase
ROlanderPerfect conclusion to Valen and Elise’s story!
"OKAY, LJ! You have outdone yourself with this one! The action, the *updated* spice, and the character development—yes, yes, YES! From the very first page, Crown of Blood and Ruin had me completely captivated with its fast-paced action, swoony romance, and those jaw-dropping twists that had me saying, “Just one more chapter” (spoiler: it was never just one). Valen and Elise’s story? *Absolute chef’s kiss.* Their dynamic is everything—intense and filled with moments that made my heart race. The banter? Loved it. The devotion? swoon worthy! And let’s talk about those fight scenes—every moment felt cinematic, keeping me on edge while rooting for these characters with my whole heart. And, HELLO! Who is this Nightrender character?? I am *officially* obsessed and will be diving into the next book IMMEDIATELY because I need answers. LJ Andrews has once again crafted a world that feels so immersive, with characters I can’t get enough of and a story that left me craving more. If you love action-packed fantasy, sweet romance, and twists that keep you guessing, this book is an absolute must-read! ["
February 17, 2025 Verified Purchase
Paige W (@wingsandsmut)So good!
"**spoiler alert** “I would die for her, no mistake. But I planned to live for her now. Every day, every breath, I would not forget who for whom my heart beat.” I really enjoyed Crown of Blood and Ruin and it has definitely been my favorite of the series so far! There were so many plot twists that I did not anticipate and it kept me on the edge of my seat needing to know what would happen next. This book was everything I wanted for Elise and Valen! They have overcome so many obstacles and continue to do while keeping their overall goals for a better kingdom and united people in mind. The love they have for each other is so beautiful and passionate and that is portrayed so well in the writing. I am sad that their character arcs end here, but am hoping to see a little more of them in future books! I was absolutely sobbing at the end with their family and how they all handed the crown back down to Elise and Valen. The support and love for them as king and queen just made my heart so full! I am excited for the next book and to see where the story goes with Nightrender! ["
March 5, 2024 Verified Purchase
Sarah J. Maas
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