Throne of Glass by Sarah J. Maas (2012)

An infamous assassin fights for her freedom in a deadly royal competition, uncovering magic, ghosts, and secrets long buried. Maas blends romance, intrigue, and swordplay in equal measure, crafting a heroine who is both ruthless and deeply human. It’s the start of an epic saga that defined modern YA fantasy.

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐½