I'll say 4,5* because I found Throne of Glass more gripping when I read it the first time around, although that could also be because of the circumstances under which I started and finished this book; several 'life circumstances' prevented me from diving into this series the way I originally thought I would. Still, A Court of Thorns and Roses has Sarah J. Maas written all over it, which I was happy about. 
 The writing style, as always, is wonderful. Feyre reminded me a little of Celaena in some ways, but not so much that she felt like a copy; she's her own person, with her own flaws and strengths and a strong personality. The way her story was based on the tale of Beauty and the Beast, but in such a way that it remained surprising and fresh, reminded me a little of Marissa Meyer's Lunar Chronicles series, which I abolutely adore. 
 The ending was a tad predictable, as was the romance, but I found I didn't mind so much. It was still beautifully written and especially the second half of the story really drew me in. I suppose it could be read as a standalone, for those who want to try this trilogy but aren't sure it's for them; you could stop after this book and be pretty satisfied with the ending. Still, there's potential for so much more and since the two sequels are both a lot thicker than A Court of Thorns and Roses, I'm already looking forward to delving more into Feyre's world and seeing what else she's got coming for her.