Sarah J. Maas’s “Crescent City: House of Flame and Shadow,” the latest installment in the Crescent City series, offers a continuation of Bryce Quinlan’s journey through a fantastical world teeming with political intrigue, supernatural entities, and complex relationships. While the novel retains the imaginative world-building and dynamic characters that SJM is known for, it occasionally falters in its convolutedness and coherence. One of the novel’s strengths lies in its intricate world-building. However, the sheer volume of new terms and creatures introduced can be overwhelming. The CC3 characters’ continue to evolve, with the supporting cast receiving considerable development. The characters’ dynamics are depicted with authenticity and warmth, making their interactions one of the most enjoyable aspects of the book. However, the novel’s ambitious scope sometimes works against it. CC3 often meanders, with prolonged subplots that detract from the main narrative. Additionally, the climactic sequences, while thrilling, can feel overly complex and rushed, leaving certain resolutions unsatisfying. Despite these criticisms, it’s important to acknowledge the sheer ambition and creativity that underpin Maas’s writing. If you are a lover of heavy fantasy with subplots of romance or already a dedicated fan of SJM, this book is a must-read that deepens the lore and expands the universe. If you like a heavy romance with light fantasy, perhaps dip your toe into romantasy with ACOTAR.
Grab yourself a glass of the Celeste Crianza and cozy up with this urban romantasy. This full-bodied red wine is luxurious and fruit-dense that possesses the complexity, passion, and intensity of a star-filled Night (cue Ruhn swoon).
“I love you. I fell in love with you in the depths of my soul, and it’s my soul that will find yours again in the next life.”
