02 Jun Book Review: Tower of Dawn by Sarah J. Maas

When I first picked up Tower of Dawn, I wasn’t sure what to expect. Sarah J. Maas originally intended this as a novella, but it blossomed into a full-length novel, serving as the sixth installment in the Throne of Glass series. This book shifts focus to Chaol Westfall, a character who has had his share of ups and downs throughout the series. Given my penchant for character-driven stories, I was curious to see how Chaol’s journey would unfold, especially since this narrative runs parallel to the events in Empire of Storms.

What’s it about?

Tower of Dawn follows Chaol Westfall and Nesryn Faliq as they journey to Antica, the capital of the Southern Continent’s vast empire, ruled by the Khaganate. Their mission is twofold: to seek healing for Chaol’s debilitating spinal injury at the renowned Torre Cesme and to persuade the Khagan to ally with their homeland against the looming threat of war.

Upon arrival, they discover the city draped in white cloths, signaling the recent death of Princess Tumelun, the Khagan’s youngest daughter, believed to have died by suicide. This tragedy casts a shadow over their diplomatic efforts, as the royal family is in mourning.

Chaol is introduced to Yrene Towers, a gifted healer with a tragic past linked to Adarlan’s brutal conquest. Initially hesitant due to her deep-seated resentment towards Adarlan, Yrene agrees to treat Chaol, leading to sessions that are as emotionally charged as they are physically demanding. Their interactions force both to confront personal prejudices and past traumas, fostering a bond that deepens over time.

Meanwhile, Nesryn reconnects with her familial roots in Antica and becomes entangled with Prince Sartaq, the commander of the aerial cavalry known as the rukhin. Their alliance takes them on a perilous journey to the Tavan Mountains, where they uncover ancient secrets about the kharankui, lethal spider-like creatures with ties to the Valg, the malevolent entities threatening their world. These revelations shed light on the broader conflict and hint at the magnitude of the challenges ahead.

As Chaol’s rehabilitation progresses, he and Yrene delve into court politics, navigating the complex dynamics among the Khagan’s heirs: Arghun, the politically savvy eldest; Hasar, the formidable naval commander; Kashin, the head of the ground forces; Sartaq, the rukhin leader; and Duva, the pregnant youngest daughter. Each sibling harbors ambitions and secrets, making the quest for an alliance fraught with intrigue and danger.

The climax reveals that Princess Duva has been possessed by a Valg demon, orchestrating nefarious deeds within the palace. In a tense confrontation, Yrene’s burgeoning powers are pivotal in expelling the demon, showcasing her as a formidable force against the Valg. This act not only solidifies her importance but also convinces the Khagan of the genuine threat posed by the Valg, leading him to commit his armies to the impending war.

By the novel’s end, Chaol and Yrene’s relationship has transformed from mutual animosity to profound partnership, culminating in their marriage. Nesryn and Sartaq’s alliance also deepens, both personally and politically, as Sartaq is named heir to the Khaganate. The stage is set for a united front against the looming darkness threatening their world.

What This Chick Thinks

Character Development

Chaol’s journey is a testament to Maas’s ability to craft multifaceted characters. His physical and emotional rehabilitation is portrayed with raw authenticity, making his struggles and growth deeply relatable. Yrene emerges as a standout, her resilience and compassion adding depth to the narrative. Their evolving relationship, rooted in mutual healing, is both heartfelt and compelling.

World-Building

The Southern Continent is vividly brought to life, with Antica’s rich culture and the intricate politics of the Khaganate adding layers to the story. The introduction of the rukhin and their majestic ruks expands the series’ fantastical elements, offering exhilarating moments that contrast with the court’s intrigue.

Themes of Healing and Acceptance

At its core, the novel delves into themes of healing, not just physically but emotionally and culturally. Chaol and Yrene’s narratives intertwine to explore forgiveness, understanding, and the strength found in vulnerability.

Pacing

While the novel starts with a contemplative pace, reflecting Chaol’s initial state, it gradually builds momentum. The balance between introspective moments and action-packed sequences keeps the reader engaged, culminating in revelations that have significant implications for the overarching plot.

Final Thoughts

Tower of Dawn is a richly woven tale that adds depth and nuance to the Throne of Glass series. It transforms a sidelined narrative into a compelling exploration of character and culture, proving to be an essential and rewarding read. I’d rate it an 8.5 out of 10.

Try it if you like:

• The Priory of the Orange Tree by Samantha Shannon – An expansive fantasy featuring strong female leads, intricate world-building, and themes of unity against looming threats.
• The Name of the Wind by Patrick Rothfuss – A character-driven narrative that delves deep into personal growth, set against a richly imagined world.
• The Queen of the Tearling by Erika Johansen – A tale of political intrigue and self-discovery, with a protagonist navigating the complexities of leadership and legacy.