House of Sky and Breath (Crescent City, 2)

The second book in the sexy, groundbreaking, #1 bestselling Crescent City series by Sarah J. Maas, author of the Court of Thorns and Roses (ACOTAR) series.

Bryce Quinlan and Hunt Athalar are trying to get back to normal. They may have saved Crescent City, but with so much upheaval in their lives lately, they mostly want a chance to relax. Slow down. Figure out what the future holds.

The Asteri have kept their word so far, leaving Bryce and Hunt alone. But with the rebels chipping away at the Asteri's power, the threat the rulers pose is growing. As Bryce, Hunt, and their friends get pulled into the rebels' plans, the choice becomes clear: stay silent while others are oppressed or fight for what's right. And they've never been very good at staying silent.

In this sexy, action-packed sequel to the #1 bestseller House of Earth and Blood, Sarah J. Maas weaves a captivating story of a world about to explode-and the people who will do anything to save it.

Other books in this series include:
House of Earth and Blood
House of Flame and Shadow

Sarah Janet Maas (born March 5, 1986) is a #1 New York Times bestselling American author who has fundamentally shaped the modern "romantasy" genre. Born and raised in Manhattan, Maas spent her childhood exploring museums and reading global fairy tales, though she often felt frustrated by the lack of fierce, compelling heroines in fantasy literature. Drawing inspiration from strong pop-culture figures like Buffy the Vampire Slayer and Sailor Moon, she began writing the stories she wanted to read.

At sixteen, Maas started drafting a dark twist on the Cinderella fairy tale—imagining her not as a servant, but as a deadly assassin. She serialized the story, originally titled Queen of Glass, on the writing platform FictionPress, where it quickly became one of the site's most popular works. She continued developing her craft at Hamilton College, graduating magna cum laude in 2008 with a degree in creative writing and religious studies.

Her debut novel, retitled Throne of Glass, was published by Bloomsbury in 2012 and became a massive international hit, ultimately spanning an eight-book epic series. In 2015, Maas launched her second major series, A Court of Thorns and Roses (ACOTAR). Initially a loose retelling of Beauty and the Beast, the series transitioned her work into the "new adult" and adult fantasy spaces. The ACOTAR series became a viral sensation, largely driven by massive popularity on TikTok. In 2020, she introduced her third ongoing adult urban fantasy series, Crescent City.

With over 75 million copies sold worldwide and translations in nearly 40 languages, Maas stands as one of the most successful contemporary authors. She currently lives in Pennsylvania with her husband, whom she met in college, and their two children.

“With a twist that will leave readers breathless (if those steamy love scenes don't), House of Sky and Breath is a sequel that continues to be an action-packed, page-turning urban fantasy romance which readers will devour.” ―Booklist, starred review

“Intricate plotting and crackling dialogue.” ―Shelf Awareness

“A dizzying, suspenseful whirl that surprises at every turn.” ―Entertainment Weekly on House of Earth and Blood

“Tender, funny, . . . hot, and satisfying.” ―#1 New York Times bestselling author Laurell K. Hamilton on House of Earth and Blood

“A master class in world-building adventure. Don't miss it.” ―#1 New York Times bestselling author Charlaine Harris on House of Earth and Blood

House of Sky and Breath by Sarah J. Maas picks up right after the devastating events of the first Crescent City novel, following Bryce Quinlan as she tries to rebuild her life in the bustling city of Lunathion. Bryce, still grieving the loss of her best friend and dealing with the trauma of the attack that nearly destroyed everything, is determined to move forward. She throws herself into her work at the gallery and spends time with her found family, including her roommate and her new romantic involvement with Hunt Athalar, the fallen angel who has become her anchor. Their relationship deepens amid the constant threat of the Asteri, the ancient and powerful rulers who watch over the city with suspicion and control.

Bryce’s world expands as she begins to explore her own hidden powers and heritage. She learns more about her lineage and the magic that runs through her veins, which sets her on a path of discovery that involves both her human father and the Autumn King, her biological parent. Hunt, meanwhile, grapples with his own past as a slave and soldier, trying to balance his loyalty to Bryce with the dangers that come from defying the system. Together they navigate the complicated politics of their world, where different species and classes live in uneasy tension under the Asteri’s rule.

The story introduces new threats and allies as Bryce and Hunt get pulled into a larger conflict involving rebels who seek to overthrow the oppressive regime. They cross paths with members of the Ophion resistance and encounter figures like the Harpy and other powerful beings who have their own agendas. Bryce also deals with personal challenges at home, including tensions with her mother and stepfather, while trying to protect those she loves from the fallout of her growing involvement in dangerous matters. Her sharp wit and determination keep her moving forward even when the odds feel overwhelming.

Throughout the book, the narrative weaves in elements of romance, friendship, and high-stakes adventure. Bryce’s bond with Hunt grows stronger through shared battles and quiet moments, but external pressures test their connection at every turn. Secondary characters like Ruhn Danaan, Bryce’s half-brother, add layers to the story as he faces his own struggles with family expectations and his role in the Fae world. The plot builds through a series of revelations about ancient history, the true nature of the Asteri, and the potential for a larger uprising that could change everything.

Maas keeps the tension high by alternating between action sequences and quieter character moments, showing how Bryce processes her grief and steps into her strength. The world-building expands to include more details about the different realms and the magic that connects them, while also hinting at connections to other stories in the author’s universe. Bryce’s journey is one of self-discovery, as she learns to trust her instincts and wield her abilities in ways she never expected.

By the later chapters, the stakes rise dramatically with betrayals, unexpected alliances, and a race against time to prevent catastrophe. The story explores themes of resilience, found family, and the courage to challenge powerful systems, all while keeping the focus on Bryce’s personal growth and her relationships. The ending delivers a major twist that opens new possibilities and leaves the characters facing an uncertain future full of both hope and peril. It is a fast-paced, emotionally charged continuation that deepens the series while setting up even bigger conflicts ahead.