This is a proclamation throughout the entire world...Crown of Midnight is one of the best books I have ever read. I don't even know where to begin with how amazing this book was. Prior to its release, I wasn't sure how much I would like Crown of Midnight. I was worried that it might suffer second-book-syndrome, and just drag, especially knowing that this series plans to have 6 books (and don't even get me started on my original thoughts about a series being 6 books). Well, let me tell you, I am extremely happy that there are going to be that many books, because Ms. Maas is a master storyteller, and I can't wait to read everything that she has to offer with Celaena, Dorian, and Chaol. I seriously will 
 need 
 the remaining 4 books in the series because I don't want to let the characters go already. The writing is superb, excellent, all of the above. I was quickly immersed in the world, and felt as if I were watching a movie paly out right in front of me. I actually slowed down my reading just so that I wouldn't finish this book, all while wanting to devour the book. 
 The one thing I loved about this book is that we saw a different side to all of the characters. I wasn't actually sure how this series would play out, but it is definitely headed in a very interesting and exciting direction. Celaena is still a fierce warrior, but we also see a vulnerable side. However, we also get to experience her true wrath; and boy would I not want to get on her bad side. I loved that despite her hard exterior, she was fragile and just a little bit lost. Celaena is an extremely relatable character that showed much growth throughout this novel. Also, we get to know more about her background, and it is shocking. I was blown away at the end, and you will be too! Dorian and Chaol, I just can't choose. For the first part of the book I wanted her with Chaol, then a little later in the book I wanted her with Dorian, and by the end, I just have no idea. This is the first book where I just can't decide who I want a character to end up with, and gah! It's so frustrating. Ms. Maas has put me in a quandary that I don't like being in. A lot of secrets are revealed about Chaol and Dorian, and it was great to have more information of both of them. I'm sure even more will be revealed in future books, and I'm dying to know more. 
 Chaol and Celaena's relationship is explored, and it develops quickly. I absolutely loved it, but at the same time, I ended up getting slightly mad at Celaena at one point. After a major death occurs, and yes, it is an incredibly sad death (I was tearing up), Celaena gives him up just as quickly as their relationship started. After everything she said to him, I couldn't believe that she could be that irrational. I do understand why she did it, but at the same time, I just upset me. Despite this, I am holding out hope for them. This is also why I love that this book is written in the third person. You get a feel for all of the characters, as well as all of their emotions. The story feels more complete and comes together in a way the few authors can accomplish. 
 The setting of this book is amazing as well, and everything is incredibly well written and described. The action scenes were heart-pounding, nerve-wracking, and tense. I was on the edge of my seat throughout this novel, and I am eager to find out what is going to happen next. Any fan of this series will adore this book, and will be highly anticipating the next in the series. The book can't come out soon enough!! 
 Go out and get this book now...happy reading :) 
 5+++++ stars