BOOK REVIEW | BOOK RECOMMENDATION
House of Earth and Blood by Sarah J. Maas
House of Earth and Blood examines themes of love, friendship, redemption, and the struggle between good and evil. In book one of her new Crescent City series, Maas delivers a thrilling tale that will enthrall readers.
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Introduction
Sarah J. Maas, celebrated author of the Throne of Glass series, presents readers with a new world in book one of her Crescent City series, House of Earth and Blood.
In this no-spoilers review, I’ll explore the narrative, its complex characters, and intricate world-building that make this urban fantasy novel a compelling addition to the genre.
The novel is set on a future Earth possibly, though this is not firmly established within the novel, renamed Midgard. The Asteri, powerful interdimensional beings, reign supreme after 15,000 years.
Magical races like angels, Fae, and vampires co-exist while humans struggle for survival under Asteri's rule. They exist primarily as slaves with no civil rights. Sealed rifts prevent further influx, but threats lurk within. This urbanized world, marked by Roman-style governance and surprisingly persistent smartphones, holds the potential for rebellion.
Summary
Bryce Quinlan, a half-Fae and half-human party girl, leads a carefree life in the fast-paced Crescent City.
However, her world shatters when a brutal murder occurs, claiming the lives of her closest friends. As the investigation unfolds, Bryce becomes entangled with Hunt Athalar, a fallen angel bound to serve a powerful Archangel. Together, they embark on a journey to unravel the truth behind the murders, leading them into the heart of a complex and perilous conspiracy.
“There’s nothing wrong with a party girl. I don’t get why the world thinks there is. It’s easier for me — when people assume the worst about what I am. It lets me see who they really are — Bryce” — Sarah J. Maas, House of Earth and Blood.
Narration
The story is narrated in a limited third-person perspective, allowing readers to delve deep into Bryce Quinlan, half-human Fae and Hunt Athalar, the fallen angel’s thoughts, emotions, and experiences.
“In ‘House of Earth and Blood,’ Sarah J. Maas masterfully blends elements of urban fantasy, romance, and mystery to create a mesmerizing narrative.” — Amazon blurb.
Setting
The book is set in a modern-day urban fantasy world where humans co-exist with various supernatural beings, including angels, Fae, vampires, and shapeshifters. Many believe that it is Earth 15,000 years in the future.
Crescent City, a bustling metropolis, serves as the primary setting. It is a place where technology and magic coalesce, driving the plot and influencing the characters’ decisions. The vividly described world adds depth to the narrative, creating a rich backdrop for the unfolding story.
“Sarah J. Maas’s brand-new CRESCENT CITY series begins with House of Earth and Blood: the story of half-Fae and half-human Bryce Quinlan as she seeks revenge in a contemporary fantasy world of magic, danger, and searing romance.” — #1 New York Times bestseller! #5 as of 7 February ’24.
Theme
House of Earth and Blood explores redemption, resilience, and the search for truth and justice. It touches on themes of love, sacrifice, and the enduring bonds of friendship.
Genre
House of Earth and Blood is an urban fantasy and romance-style novel. While it shares common elements with other works in the genre, Sarah J. Maas distinguishes her narrative with intricate world-building, morally gray characters, and a richly developed plot that keeps readers engaged.
“Through love, all is possible.”―Sarah J. Maas, House of Earth and Blood.
About the Author
Sarah J. Maas is a renowned author known for her fantasy series, including The Throne of Glass and A Court of Thorns and Roses novels.
In House of Earth and Blood, Maas continues to demonstrate her storytelling prowess by introducing readers to a new and immersive world filled with complex characters and compelling narratives.
If you like Cassandra Clare’s Mortal Instruments, you will likely enjoy this series.
“That’s the point of it, Bryce. Of life. To live, to love, knowing that it might all vanish tomorrow. It makes everything that much more precious.”― Sarah J. Maas, House of Earth and Blood.
Plot
Bryce Quinlan’s life takes a tragic turn when her friends are brutally murdered. As she teams up with Hunt Athalar, a fallen angel, they explore the dark underbelly of Crescent City’s supernatural society, uncovering dangerous secrets and confronting powerful foes.
The plot weaves a thrilling story of mystery, romance, and magic as Bryce and Hunt race against time to uncover the truth behind the murders and seek justice.
“You’re the person I don’t need to explain myself to — not when it matters. You see everything I am, and you don’t run away from it.” — Sarah J. Maas, House of Earth and Blood.
Book Recommendation
House of Earth and Blood is a must-read for Maas fans and fans of urban fantasy and romance who appreciate intricate world-building, morally complex characters, and a gripping plot.
Maas’s masterful storytelling will captivate longtime fans and newcomers to her work, making this novel a compelling and engaging choice for readers of all ages.
While suitable for a broad adult and young adult audience, the novel is particularly well-suited for readers who enjoy stories of redemption, love, and resilience amidst darkness.
Of the 83,907 verified Amazon buyers who rated the book, 96% gave it four or five stars, with an overall rating of 4.7 stars. 81% rated it with five stars.
Crescent City Series — 3 Books: House of Earth and Blood, House of Sky and Breath, and House of Flame and Shadow, Hardcover.
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Steve Dalton is a retired US Army First Sergeant with a degree in journalism from the University of Maryland. I am a Friend of Medium who reads a lot, and I tell my friends about what I’ve read. Also, a Top Writer in Bitcoin, Business, Investing, Nutrition, Travel, Fiction, Transportation, VR, NFL, Design, Creativity, and Short Story.
