This was a re-read, getting myself back into the world to FINALLY read the last 3 books. This book definitely feels like where the story picks up.

I love seeing Aelin and Rowan's relationship change over the course of the book, seeing her stepping into her power, getting an iconic "who did this to you?" when he saw her scars. Rowan going from punching her and biting her (which she deserved tbh and I appreciate that he didn't hold back just because she's a woman) to IMMEDIATELY swearing the blood path to her the second he was free from Maeve?

The introduction of Manon & the witches, Rowan & the Cadre, the concept of Carannam are all so well done and I really loved getting multiple POVs with events happening concurrently in 3 different locations.

Another re-read down.

"Thanks for the oil, my skin was a little dry". ROWAN WHITETHORN, I love you, you sassy. grumpy man. I loved seeing Rowan's follow Aelin to the continent, even though it means he is disconnected from his magic and animal form. That being there for Aelin as everything gets so real became imprinting for him.

The whole scene at the theatre made me cry, even though I've read it before. The commentary that it is making being relevant to the real world. 

I think this book is my favorite of the series so far. Seeing these characters grow and accomplish so much while there is still so much to overcome has been incredible. I loved seeing Aelin and Lyssandra get close again and work together to get freedom from Arobynn (piece of shit) and closure beyond it. It being part of Aelin's scheming to aid in the upcoming war is so good!

The slow burn is burning and I definitely can't wait to see what comes next for Aelin and Rowan now that they have determined that they mean more to eachother than just carannam, than just a Queen and a member of her court, sworn to her with a blood oath.

Seeing Manon and Aelin finally meet, and Manon helping Aelin free Dorian even though she is a "witchkiller" for killing Baba Yellowlegs in self defense books prior? Amazing!

Aelin Ashryver Galathynius is home! Bring on that Tandem Read!!!

This series WRECKED ME. I haven't related to a book character as much as I do Aelin Ashryver Whitethorn Galathynius in a long time.

This book took so many twists and turns and I loved/hated every minute of it.

Aelin has been through so much and for her to have to sacrifice her human side, the majority of her magic, her scars, and more to bring this peace? It's heartbreaking. She has been through so much!

But I do love how Rowan loves her. That he was patient with her, slowly coaxing her back to herself after her torture. I love how he fights for her - not just in getting her from Maeve, but also, knowing that she would sacrifice herself, he TATTOOS A MAP ON HER BACK???? To be loved is to be seen, indeed.

"You do not yield" has become a quote that I rely on when I am going through hard things.

Princess x Bodyguard romance? Sign me up! It's like if Queen Clarise and Joe from The Princess Diaries got their happy ending in their youth.