Discussion questions:

Character Development

How do you see Celaena evolving in this book compared to Throne of Glass? Do you think her choices make her more relatable or more difficult to root for?
Chaol and Dorian both change significantly throughout the story. Whose arc felt more compelling to you, and why?
What did you think of Nehemia’s role and her choices? Did her death change how you viewed the rest of the story?
Which minor character (Mort, Archer, Fleetfoot, etc.) stood out most to you, and why?

This book introduces more moral ambiguity. Did Celaena’s actions feel justified, or did you find yourself questioning her?
Loyalty is tested repeatedly (Chaol’s choices, Celaena’s secrets, Nehemia’s mission). Which moment of loyalty or betrayal had the biggest impact on you?
How does the book explore grief and revenge? Do you think Celaena’s response to Nehemia’s death felt believable?

We learn more about the wyrdmarks, wyrdkeys, and the King’s darker power. Did these revelations raise more questions than they answered for you?
How did you feel about the pacing of the middle section (assassinations, politics, secrets)? Too slow, or just enough build-up?
Were you surprised by the twist about Celaena’s identity at the end, or did you see it coming?

Celaena’s relationship with Chaol shifts dramatically. Did you agree with how it developed, and how it ended?
How did your perception of Dorian change as his own powers began to show?
Do you think romance helped or distracted from the larger story in this book?