I’ve been on a big book kick recently, but when you discover something SO GOOD, you have to share it, right? The Crescent City book series by Sarah J. Maas is a must-read!
Sarah J. Maas has created an amazing world in her A Court of Thorns and Roses book series, and did it once again in her Crescent City book series. So vivid, intricate and gripping. The characters seem so real, even in the world of faeries and magic. This book series just needs to be talked about: Crescent City, Crescent City, Crescent City!
There are two books in the series so far: House of Blood and Earth (book 1) and House of Sky and Breath (book 2).
Before starting to read, I didn’t look at the book summary so I honestly didn’t know what to expect. Within the first few chapters, I was hooked. I used every opportunity I had to read these books.
The books are quite large — about 800 pages each. They’re a bit intimidating! But once you get into the stories, the pages will fly by.
About Crescent City
You can read a much better summary on Amazon here, but essentially, the Crescent City book 1 starts by introducing you to Crescent City, heroine Bryce Quinlan, her best friend Danika and their world.
Suddenly, Bryce finds herself in the heart of an investigation, and their police assign Hunt Athalar to shadow Bryce for the investigation and for her safety. And thus, the story unfolds.
Bryce is half-fae, half-human and Hunt is a fallen angel. Their world is full of magic, so anything can happen. The Crescent City universe is a mish-mosh of fantasy characters, including a faun, fire sprite, mer, angels, demons, shifters and more.
There’s romance (plus a bit of spice), heartbreak, suspense, murder, trechery and more. It’s captivating!
After you already understand the Crescent City world, book 2 is a continuation of book 1; the world building is already done. The focus of the book shifts its focus, but you get more character development and meet new characters.
If you tend to like books that include any of the above, then I suggest giving Crescent City a try. I still think of the story weeks later and have recommended it to so many friends.
Through love, all is possible.”
– Crescent City
Both before and after reading, I’ve seen a lot of feedback online about Crescent City being hard to get into because there is so much “world building.” Unlike in ACOTAR where you learn the world alongside the main character, the Crescent City characters already know their world, and so you have to learn it as the story progresses.
Sarah J. Maas puts a lot of detail and description into these stories, but personally, I find that’s what makes them so rich. You don’t need to memorize every little detail for the story to make sense; just enjoy the ride!
Quick links to each book on Amazon
If you’re interested in reading this series, I do suggest reading the ACOTAR series first. However, now is a great time to dive into Crescent City because book #3, House of Flame and Shadow, is coming out January 30, 2024!
House of Flame and Shadow (Book 3) – out Jan. 30, 2024!
Honestly, I loved ACOTAR, but these Crescent City books and characters are my favorites. So much that I’ve bought a Crescent City Sunball sweatshirt, archesian amulet necklace and “Light it Up” sticker for my gym mirror to remind me of the strength that comes from within no matter your situation.
Have you read the Crescent City series? What did you think? No spoilers for others please! If you have any book series you’d recommend that are similar to Crescent City, please comment below.
Thank you for reading my post.
Leave a Reply