Tower of Dawn

“The heart he'd offered and had been left to drop on the wooden planks of the river docks. An assassin who had sailed away and a queen who had returned.”

4.5 - That was so good. Probably the best book in the series in terms of writing. I have been desperate for Chaol's healing journey, especially after everything he went through. I was delighted to see him get the story he deserved. I love what Maas did with his characterization. He's definitely her most complex character and she handled his character growth very well. The parts where he acknowledges and accepts his disability were very emotional, leave it to Chaol to break my heart in every book he has been in. We also see a lot of depth in his characterization, from his mixed and bitter feelings towards Aelin (which were so realistic in my opinion) and his reasons behind his loyalty to Dorian and the kingdom. This book should provide enough context for those who claim that Chaol should've handled things better during Queen of Shadows. I loved the journey he took and the resolution of it. My only complaint is about the direction of Chaol's romantic life. I really thought it was unnecessary for every character to end up with someone. But the heroine of this was a wonderful character and I love her and Chaol individually so it didn't bother me that much.

There are side stories and intersecting plots being told in this book. And I loved everything from the new characters (the Khagan family dynamic is both funny and heartwarming) to the shocking twists and reveals.

Also, I never thought I would actually care for Nesryn as a character but her adventure with Sartaq was amazing and boosted my enjoyment of this book.

One of my favorite things about ‘Tower of Dawn' is the southern continent settings. It was refreshing to read the story from another kingdom and different culture. The gorgeous details show how beautifully the author envisioned this place.

“Using the chair is not a punishment. It is not a prison,' he said softly. ‘It never was. And I am as much of a man in that chair, or with that cane, as I am standing on my feet.”