Empire of Storms

Dorian’s use of magic is strongly connected to his emotional state. Analyze the ways in which his expression of grief and guilt change as his magic grows more powerful and controlled.

Compare and contrast Manon and Aelin, highlighting at least two similarities and two differences in their character development and internal philosophical shifts. How do their character arcs diverge and intersect?

More of Maeve’s cadre members (Fenrys, Gavriel, and Lorcan) appear in Empire of Storms. What does the presence of these three characters reveal about Maeve’s intentions?

Explore the tropes common to the fantasy genre. How does Sarah J. Maas conform to and/or challenge these tropes in Empire of Storms? Focus specifically on Aelin’s destiny, Manon’s philosophical shifts, and Erawan’s status as the ultimate antagonist.

Aelin’s status as a messianic figure becomes increasingly pronounced in Empire of Storms. How does she fulfill the savior archetype? Predict how her characterization will continue to grow in Kingdom of Ash.

Compare and contrast the events of Empire of Storms with those of Tower of Dawn. How do these two books interrelate, given that their events take place concurrently?

Elide takes a more prominent role in this novel. Contrast her demeanor in Empire of Storms with her previous portrayal in the series during her captivity in (and escape from) Morath. How does her relationship with Lorcan reflect her growing sense of independence?

Maeve and Erawan loom large in the narrative, though neither appear frequently in-scene. Why does Maas choose to keep the novel’s primary antagonists hidden from view, and how does their palpable absence enhance their reputations and raise the narrative tension?