Book Review: Tower of Dawn by Sarah J. Maas

Title: Tower of Dawn

Author: Sarah J. Maas

Series/Standalone: Throne of Glass Series (Book #6)

Genre: Fantasy, Romance, Young Adult, 

Pages: 663

Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing

Year Published: 2017

Format: Paperback (Own It)

"Chaol Westfall and Nesryn Faliq have arrived in the shining city of Antica to forge an alliance with the Khagan of the Southern Continent, whose vast armies are Erilea's last hope. but they have also come to Antica for another purpose: to seek healing at the famed Torre Cesme for the wounds Chaol received in Rifthold.

After enduring unspeakable horrors as a child, Yrene Towers has no desire to help the young lord from Adarlan, let alone heal him. Yet she has sworn an oath to assist those in need- and will honor it. But Lord Westerfall carries shadows from his own past, and Yrene soon comes to realize they could engulf them both.

In this sweeping parallel novel to the New York Times bestselling Empire of Storms, Chaol, Nesryn, and Yrene will have to draw on every scrap of their resilience if they wish to save their friends. But while they become entangled in the political webs of the khaganate, deep in the shadows of mighty mountains where warriors soar on legendary ruks, long-awaited answers slumber. Answer that might offer their world a chance at survival- or doom them all...."

My Rating: 5/5

While reading these, if you had told me I would rate this one higher than Empire of Storms, I would have told you there was no way. But the twists and turns at the end of this hit me in my feelings. I was surprised, I was worried, I felt deeply about the plot line and how the changes were made. While the end felt a little cheesy, I am extremely worried about the characters in the next book, but I look forward to seeing how the plot plays out in Kingdom of Ash. 

Thanks for reading,

Sidny

Book Review: When He Was Wicked by Julia Quinn

Title: When He Was Wicked

Author: Julia Quinn

Series/Standalone: Bridgerton Series (Book #6)

Genre: Adult, Romance, Historical 

Pages: 368

Publisher: Avon

Year Published: 2004

Format: Audiobook

"Everything was so much simpler... when he was wicked.

In every life there is a turning point. A moment so tremendous, so sharp and breathtaking, that one knows one's life will never be the same. For Michael Stirling, London's most infamous rake, that moment came the first time he laid eyes on Francesca Bridgerton.

After a lifetime of chasing women, of smiling slyly as they chased him, of allowing himself to be caught but never permitting his heart to become engaged, he took one look at Francesca Bridgerton and fell so fast and hard into love it was a wonder he managed to remain standing. Unfortunately for Michael, however, Francesca's surname was to remain Bridgerton for only a mere thirty-six hours longer- the occasion of their meeting was, lamentably, a supper celebrating her imminent wedding to his cousin.

But that was then... Now Michael is the earl and Francesca is free, but still she thinks of him as nothing other than her dear friend and confidant. Michael dares not speak to her of his love... until one dangerous night, when she steps innocently into his arms, and passion proves stronger than even the most wicked of secrets..."

My Rating: 5/5

This is my favourite in the series so far. This one does contain a lot more intimacy, and it was so well done. I think the idea of having a character who was a widow helped with the plot and kept the series interesting. It has similar tropes that I enjoy (ex. Friends to Lovers) and the pining was so well done. The characters in this book were distinct and felt so real to me! I can't wait to continue with the series, and a friend of mine has already suggested the prequel. I can't wait!

Thanks for reading,

Sidny

Book Review: Assault on Golden Rock by Jeremy Whitley

Title: Assault on Golden Rock
Author: Jeremy Whitley
Artists: Xenia Pamfil, and Christine Hipp
Series/Standalone: Raven the Pirate Princess (Book #6)
Genre: Graphic Novel, Fantasy, LGBT, Pirates
Pages: 160
Publisher: Action Lab Entertainment
Year Published: 2018
Format: Paperback (Library Copy)

"Two years ago, Raven Xingtao was locked in a tower and denied her birthright thanks to the scheming of her brothers. After she was freed, she set out to reclaim what was hers and get her revenge. It has been a long time coming, but after tonight the job will be halfway done.

On Golden Rock, there is a beautiful fortress and at the heart of the fortress is Raven's brother, Magpie. Unfortunately, between Raven and Magpie is every sword-swinging, tough as nails pirate that sails under Magpie's flag and Raven has a crew of about a dozen. The only way to get in the same room and face her brother is in disguise. Now if things go south, there's an army between Raven's crew and their boat. And in plans like this, things always go south eventually."

My Rating: 3.75/5

I've been a little disappointed in the past few installments in the series. I think that there has been a change in the direction in the series in some ways (mainly in character development). I was glad to see that the plot was continuing on its main quest as I had felt previously that we were getting lost along the way. I am hoping for more action or a little more drama in the next installment in the series. Although these last few volumes haven't been my favorite, I still enjoy the series and the romances so far.

Thanks for reading,

Sidny