According to Ernest Hemingway, “There is no friend as good as a book,” explaining the importance of a good book. Not only is a book an escape for many people, but for some it is a companion. An okay book is a nice temporary retreat; however, an excellent book is a permanent freedom. One example of an excellent book is A Court of Mist and Fury by Sarah J. Maas. There are many reasons this book is a necessary read for all ages . All the pieces fit into place, which turns the book into one big roller coaster of emotions.

The first example is the character development. There are many complicated characters, each with their own unique past and exciting future. The main character, Feyre, is a young woman from a once-rich family that became destitute. She had to provide for her father and two sisters, causing her to be one of the strongest characters, both physically and mentally. Feyre is an incredible character, remaining strong while her life changes before her eyes. Another protagonist is Rhysand, High Lord, or king, of the so-called Night Court. He rules part of the country Prythian, making him the youngest to ever do so. Rhysand, nicknamed Rhys, was forced to take the position of king when the rest of his family was murdered, leaving him with a wall around his steel heart. At first, Rhys and Feyre are enemies of two separate sides, but are pushed together by the hardships wreaking havoc on their country. The final main character, both protagonist and antagonist, is Tamlin. He cared for Feyre when she stumbled, alone, onto a new continent. Then he became possessive, letting his anger blind his vision. There are many detailed supporting characters, who must be discovered through the book. Each harbor a harsh past behind their jaded eyes and hidden pain in their smiles. These characters bring together an amazing story, a tied bow on a beautiful creation.

This book is also exceptional because of the plot. It has a smooth connection from the previous book, A Court of Thorns and Roses, picking up right where it left off. History is another amazing part of the plot. The characters all seem to fit into place, like a huge puzzle. When I reached the moment where everything fell into place, I wanted to cry, in a good way, of course. A Court of Mist and Fury was extremely thought-out and had an incredible plan. The third reason the plot is so great is because the story builds suspense. Throughout the whole story, tension and excitement escalates, making the reader want to read forever. Even when I read the book for the tenth time I get the rush of emotions and adrenaline as though I was sitting down to read it for the first time. The plot is a roller coaster that is eternally going up, up, and away. This written masterpiece really brings everything together.
The writing quality of this book is spectacular. Similar to, as I said earlier, a puzzle, all the creativity has been sketched and planned. Everything is falling into place. Another aspect of this book is it draws the reader in. The tension is palpable even through the paper. Readers become a part of the emotion throughout the journey of ups and downs. Unfortunately, the roller coaster always seems to end too quickly. One moment I’m reading the first page, and the next I’m done, all 626 pages gone. Since reading this book and all by Sarah J. Maas, I’ve had trouble reading any other books. The characters I love and the roller coaster of emotions isn’t as pronounced. As soon as I’m back reading one of her books, it’s like I never left.

Sarah J. Maas has written two series: The Throne of Glass, which currently has six books, including the novella, and A Court of Thorns and Roses, which has two books. Her books have amazing detail that’s rare in young adult literature. The way Sarah puts all her time into these bestselling books is clear to see.

Not all books are written the same. There are okay books, good books, and great books, like A Court of Mist and Fury. Through the amazing characters, the beautiful plot, and the writing individuality, the fantastic quality of the book should tell any reader, fantasy-oriented or not, that A Court of Mist and Fury should be their next major read.