*Contains spoilers. We recommend you read the book itself first, and then scan our review of A Court of Thorns and Roses to get up to speed.

The second story in the famed ACOTAR series, A Court of Mist and Fury, is an immense, psychologically-fraught novel, filled with trauma, twists, longing, and scheming at every turn. 

Maas’ hefty book brings both breadth and depth to the series as readers are thrown deeper into main character Feyre’s psyche, while also unlocking complex lore across Prythian and beyond. If you enjoy drawn-out plans and enemies-to-lovers (a trope visited again and again by the romantasy genre), this is the book for you. 

The plot exists as a constant tug-of-war between the slipping control of Tamlin in the Spring Court, and the dark allure of the brooding Rhysand in the Night Court. Feyre, beginning to realise who really has her best interests at heart, undergoes a series of revelations that turn all our previous assumptions on their heads. 

In fact, revelations are what give A Court of Mist and Fury its momentum throughout. As Feyre becomes increasingly enmeshed in the Night Court’s seductions and freedoms, she and readers both are treated to its spoils. First, Feyre is given the opportunity to read and expand intellectually, despite Rhysand’s disgruntled delivery. Then, we learn the truth about what’s at stake at the hands of the King of Hybern. 

Later, we are treated to the unveiling of Velaris, the City of Starlight, in a series of beautiful descriptions that make you want to book a one-way ticket to this fictional paradise and never look back. Soon after this, the ‘Inner Circle’ make a dramatic appearance, which sets the tone for the rest of the series, with their wit, charm, loyalty, and peevish jealousies. 

In this respect, A Court of Mist and Fury rewrites all the fallacies that Book 1 has Feyre (and, by extension, the reader) so naively believing in. By replacing assumptions with truth and introducing critical characters and places, ACOMAF is arguably the most important book in the series, laying the groundwork for the events that follow.

A nod has to be given to Maas for her ability to successfully suspend so many moving parts of the narrative at once. From small details, like rivalries within courts and keeping character traits consistent (everyone’s heard of Feyre’s bowels “turning to water” by now, right?) to significant structural elements like human-Faerie lore and inter-court alliances, Maas spins plenty of plates. 

Another string to Maas’ bow in this book, and the others that follow, is the richness of world-building. Her ingenuity in creating world-specific elements like ‘winnowing’, telekinesis through bonds, and the destructive-transformative power of the cauldron makes the world feel convincing, legitimate, and real for readers. There are very few plot holes and inconsistencies, and even fewer that devoted fans are not willing to overlook due to love of the characters. 

Although the series as a whole has come under criticism for adhering closely to common romantasy tropes, many readers accept that as part of the appeal. With A Court of Mist and Fury, you know what you’re getting into before you begin. It’s just a given that there’ll be steamy sex scenes, brooding fae males, impossible bargains, pages and pages of longing, and some heart-in-throat, high-stakes moments. 

Books like ACOMAF unapologetically declare themselves as romantasy, and fully identify with the genre. For readers, this means easy enjoyment and no surprises (beyond what the plot throws at you); if you like romantasy, please enter here. Any genre- or trope-based criticism, therefore, falls flat – the equivalent of a food critic bemoaning a Victoria Sponge for being too traditional. 

If you’re not into whimsical magic, skin-tight gowns, and bloodlust, this just isn’t the book for you, and that’s ok.

Other works by Sarah J. Maas

Sarah J. Maas has created entire universes (and some) out of her novels. From the Crescent City trilogy to the expansive Throne of Glass eight-book extravaganza, there’s literally thousands of pages to explore. For now, though, here’s the rest on the ACOTAR series, in order, for you to prepare for:

• A Court of Wings and Ruin (2017)
• A Court of Frost and Starlight (2018)
• A Court of Silver Flames (2021)

Revel in more romantasy with our archives 

For more epic fantasy, forbidden romance, or a thrilling blend of both, explore the Victoria Freudenheim archives. We’ve reviewed hundreds of books, from literary classics to BookTok sensations, so there’s bound to be something that sparks your curiosity. 

For something similar, why not dive into our fiery review of Fourth Wing? Alternatively, feed your brain some hard-core intellectual fantasy with our review of Babel. Find endless inspiration for your next read in our Top Rated collection.