Thomas’s Reviews > House of Earth and Blood > Status Update

Nothing like a late night catch up session! SJM is at her most innovative here with her strongest series opener: establishing much of the world and character dynamics alongside a rapidly paced plot, the story of Bryce begins with the horrific tragedy of that pushes her towards her journey throughout the series. As per usual, there are already SO many Maasverse connections I’m catching—loving this already!

At long last, come full circle: two years ago, I binged CC. Let’s do it again!

SO much Maasverse lore I’m catching onto now that I’m reading this with both ToG & ACOTAR fresh in my mind. HoEaB does a lot of heavy lifting as her best series opener, but man does SJM pack a punch with Bryce and Danika! Such strong characters and an immersive world. Also so much foreshadowing and symbolism here! So excited!!!

Bryce is a FORMIDABLE SJM protagonist. I never once doubted her potential, and MAN. Does she deliver. SO earned her place as a unique, badass, compassionate, well-rounded woman in the whole Maasverse. She, Aelin, Feyre & Nesta are literal OGs in the realm of female protagonists.

Bryce’s Ordeal omfg

This book is ruining me

THIS IS JUST SO GOOD WHY DID IT TAKE ME SO LONG TO READ THIS

This is quickly climbing the ranks amongst SJM books. The slow burn is DELICIOUSLY TORTUROUS, the story is so complex yet so engaging, and the writing is addictive. SJM has perfected her formula.