House of Earth and Blood (Crescent City) — Sarah J. Maas

Summary

Part I: The Hollow

In The Hollow, we get a glimpse of Bryce's life before a devastating event dramatically alters her world. The narrative paints a heartwarming picture of her deep friendship with Danika and a budding, slow-burning romance with Connor. Readers quickly grow fond of Bryce and the Pack of Devils, making the tragic losses that occur early in the book profoundly affecting.

Part II: The Trench

In The Trench, we observe the evolving dynamics between Bryce and Hunt, who initially share a somewhat antagonistic relationship. By the end of this section, they both begin to feel a subtle attraction towards each other. Sarah J Maas' favorite scene featuring Bryce at the shooting range is a highlight of this part. Bryce and Hunt start making connections and unraveling the mystery, or at least, they believe they are.

Part III: The Canyon

The Canyon sees Bryce and Hunt diving further into their investigation, coming ever closer to the truth. Meanwhile, their growing attraction intensifies, becoming more intimate to the point where they almost give in to their feelings. However, this burgeoning bond shatters when Bryce discovers Hunt's collusion with Viktoria and Justinian, members of the 33rd legion and slaves to Micah. They planned to use the Synth to oust Micah and achieve freedom. This betrayal leaves Bryce devastated and readers in suspense about Hunt's impending punishment.

Part IV: The Ravine

In The Ravine, Hunt suffers a harsh fate for his rebellion, being sold to Sandriel by Micah. Amidst the Summit proceedings, a weak and shackled Hunt watches as Micah abruptly departs, only to show up at Bryce's workplace. Thanks to Jesiba's installed cameras, Declan Emmet broadcasts Micah's encounter with Bryce to all Summit attendees. Micah's heinous crimes are soon exposed, revealing that he murdered Danika and intended to exploit Bryce to open a portal to unknown worlds. Bryce, empowered by Lehabah's sacrifice, manages to eliminate Micah, and Hunt, freed from slavery by Queen Hypaxia, dispatches Sandriel. However, their victory is marred by the opening of a portal to Hel, which unleashes demons into Lunathion. In a desperate bid to save the city, Bryce performs the Drop, drawing on Danika's spirit and her own Firstlight power to heal the world and close the portals.

Epilogue

The epilogue unravels surprising relationships, hinting at a romantic past between Jesiba and Hunt's father. It also teases future plot developments with Jesiba Roga and Aidas, Prince of The Chasm, discussing Bryce's power and her possession of Theia's light.