Sarah J. Maas | 2020 | 803 Pages | ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Genres: Fantasy, Romance, Fae, Magic, Fiction, Enemies to Lovers, Shifters
SUMMARY
Bryce Quinlan had the perfect life-working hard all day and partying all night-until a demon murdered her closest friends, leaving her bereft, wounded, and alone. When the accused is behind bars but the crimes start up again, Bryce finds herself at the heart of the investigation. She'll do whatever it takes to avenge their deaths.
Hunt Athalar is a notorious Fallen angel, now enslaved to the Archangels he once attempted to overthrow. His brutal skills and incredible strength have been set to one purpose-to assassinate his boss's enemies, no questions asked. But with a demon wreaking havoc in the city, he's offered an irresistible deal: help Bryce find the murderer, and his freedom will be within reach.
As Bryce and Hunt dig deep into Crescent City's underbelly, they discover a dark power that threatens everything and everyone they hold dear, and they find, in each other, a blazing passion-one that could set them both free, if they'd only let it.
With unforgettable characters, sizzling romance, and page-turning suspense, this richly inventive new fantasy series by #1 New York Times bestselling author Sarah J. Maas delves into the heartache of loss, the price of freedom-and the power of love.
MY THOUGHTS
Sarah J. Maas, renowned for her enthralling worlds and intricate character development, invites readers on an immersive journey through the bustling streets of Crescent City in the debut installment of her series. Within these pages, Maas introduces us to a realm where magic pulses beneath the surface, secrets lurk around every corner, and alliances hang by a fragile thread.
At the heart of the narrative lies Bryce Quinlan, a lively, half-human, half-fae socialite haunted by a tragic past. Grieving from the loss of her closest friend, Bryce is thrust into a maelstrom of murder and deception when a brutal crime shatters the city's peace, threatening to unravel the delicate balance between humans, fae, and otherworldly beings.
Bryce's idyllic existence of working hard by day and reveling by night is shattered when a demon's vile act leaves her hollow, wounded, and alone. As the accused languishes behind bars, the sinister crimes resume, propelling Bryce into the heart of a risky investigation. Driven by a fierce determination to avenge her friends, she's prepared to pursue justice at any cost.
Enter Hunt Athalar, a notorious Fallen angel bound by servitude to the very Archangels he once sought to overthrow. Endowed with lethal skills and unmatched strength, Hunt's existence is defined by a single purpose—to eliminate his master's enemies without question. However, faced with a city besieged by demonic chaos, he's presented with an irresistible bargain: aid Bryce in uncovering the murderer, and his elusive freedom awaits.
As Bryce and Hunt delve deeper into Crescent City's shadows, they unearth an evil force that threatens to shatter everything they hold dear. Amidst the darkness, they discover an undeniable connection, igniting a fiery passion that could destroy them both—if they dare to embrace it.
With unforgettable characters, simmering romance, and relentless suspense, this fantasy series dives into the anguish of loss, the sacrifices of freedom, and the transformative power of love.
Maas's talent for world-building shines brightly within the vibrant tapestry of Crescent City, where every corner teems with magic and intrigue. From towering skyscrapers to the gritty underbelly, the city pulses with life, while its intricate social hierarchy adds depth and authenticity to the narrative.
Yet "Crescent City: House of Earth and Blood" surpasses the bounds of urban fantasy, morphing seamlessly into a gripping murder mystery that will keep you guessing until the final page. As Bryce navigates the labyrinth of deception, confronting long-buried secrets and formidable foes, the tension mounts to a crescendo, leaving you breathless in anticipation.
In conclusion, Maas delivers a masterful tale of magic, mystery, and redemption that captivates from beginning to end. With its compelling world-building, characters, and plot, "Crescent City" sets a captivating stage for the series' continuation, leaving you eagerly awaiting the next installment.
CHARACTER OVERVIEW
Bryce Quinlan is a half-human, half-fae young woman who works as an independent agent in the bustling city of Crescent City. She's witty, sarcastic, and deeply scarred by a tragic event from her past. Despite her tough exterior, Bryce harbors a lot of pain and vulnerability beneath the surface, which is gradually revealed as the story unfolds. She possesses remarkable strength, both physically and emotionally, and is fiercely loyal to her friends.
Hunt Athalar is an enigmatic fallen angel bound in servitude to the Archangel Micah. Skilled in combat and possessing a tortured past, Hunt is initially distant and cold. Still, he gradually forms a deep connection with Bryce as they navigate the dangerous mysteries of Crescent City together. He struggles with his inner demons and a sense of guilt over his past actions.
Danika Fendyr was the formidable Alpha of The Pack of Devils, fiercely protective of her packmates and closest friend, Bryce Quinlan. Her leadership and unwavering loyalty were the backbone of their tight-knit group. Tragically, Danika and her entire pack met a brutal end, slaughtered in a devastating attack that shook the foundations of Crescent City. Despite her untimely demise, Danika's legacy and the impact of her loss resonate deeply throughout the narrative, shaping Bryce's journey and the events that unfold.
Ruhn Danaan is Bryce's cousin and a member of the Fae nobility. Despite their familial connection, he initially harbors resentment towards Bryce due to events in their shared past. However, as the story progresses, Ruhn undergoes significant character development, shedding his bitterness and becoming a valuable ally to Bryce in her quest for justice.
Micah Domitus is the powerful Archangel ruling Crescent City, holding considerable sway over its inhabitants. He is ambitious, ruthless, and unafraid to manipulate those around him to achieve his ends. His complex relationship with Bryce forms a central part of the novel's plot, as Bryce becomes increasingly entangled in the political machinations of the celestial hierarchy.
Declan Emmet and Tristan Flynn, Ruhn's closest companions, are two fae who shared in his Ordeal a formidable magical trial all fae must endure. Alongside their bond, the trio serves in the Crescent City Auxiliary, the city's law enforcement agency, and they share a residence. Declan possesses exceptional skills in cyber security, often utilizing his expertise to penetrate various networks with the aid of his friends. Conversely, Flynn wields earth magic and is poised to inherit the title of lord upon his father's passing.
Ember Quinlan is the fiercely protective mother of Bryce in Crescent City: House of Earth and Blood. She's opinionated, straightforward, and never backs down from a fight. Ember refuses to tolerate hatred and bigotry towards humans, having faced it herself. She possesses a deep maternal instinct and intelligence.
Fury Axtar is an enigmatic figure shrouded in mystery. Her age, species, Vanir class, and motives are all undisclosed, even to Bryce. Despite the veil of secrecy surrounding her, one fact is universally recognized: she is an assassin. Yet, amidst her shadowy profession, she remained a steadfast friend to Bryce until Danika's death.
Jesiba Roga, Bryce's employer, has a complicated relationship with her. Despite threatening Bryce at times, she also cared for her, giving Bryce the protective Archesian amulet and typically helping her when she could. Jesiba was strict and feared in Lunathion, and she was known for her intolerance of dissent and ability to confront Archangels boldly.
Lehabah was known for her gossip-loving and nosy nature. She preferred trashy dramas over work at Griffin Antiquities but sometimes struggled to focus. However, she took her job seriously when needed, especially in maintaining order among the books in the Parthos library. Remarkably perceptive, she could discern the true nature of others, as evidenced by her observation of Hunt about Bryce's softer side beneath her tough exterior. Despite her sometimes flippant demeanor, Lehabah deeply cared for Bryce and her friends, although she occasionally felt mistreated by Danika Fendyr.
Tharion's charming and confident demeanor extends to his interactions with others, including Bryce and Hunt. Despite his carefree nature, he is crucial in aiding them on their journey. Whether offering strategic advice, moral support, or using his charisma to navigate tricky situations, Tharion is a valuable ally. His desire for a better world aligns with their goals, and he often has unexpected solutions amidst their challenges.
(There are many more characters who will be mentioned in later reviews)
WHERE TO READ / BUY
Hardcover: $21.89
Paperback: $13.34
Kindle Edition: $8.21
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