#041: This week on A Novel Bunch, we’re diving into Chapters 51–57 of A Court of Silver Flames by Sarah J. Maas—where the Valkyries level up, ancient magic sings, and Nesta Archeron steps fully into her power… with a desk, a harp, and a death-god in her wake.

*SPOILERS AHEAD*

The Valkyries are back on the mat, ribbons in hand and confidence rising. Emerie demands the real update (“Tell me you at least had a week’s worth of fun”), and Cassian proves what “cutting the ribbon” actually looks like—right into the now-infamous hold onto the desk moment. But it’s not all heat: in the library, Nesta and Gwyn choose bravery, attending a priestess service together. Music becomes sanctuary, friendship becomes armor, and a real bond is forged.

Then the song opens a door. The Harp awakens—and answers Nesta. Drawn into a parallel space, she finds a golden instrument at the heart of the Prison. The Crown and Harp link her to Briallyn. Rhys sends Cassian in with one of Nesta’s blades—to see what happens when she uses it. Visions. Six thrones. Lanthys. A god who should not be able to die.

He tries anyway.

Nesta runs. Then turns back. She counts strings—twenty-six—and bends worlds. She reaches Cassian, names her blade Ataraxia, and takes out a death-god with her own magic and Ataraxia. The Prison screams. They fall into Velaris. Cassian collapses. Nesta chooses hope.

After, she finally apologizes to Feyre (daemati style). We learn of the Daglan, Gwydion, the Wild Hunt—and that Ataraxia is a death sword. A plan forms: to keep Eris loyal, Nesta will dance with him at Solstice. Cassian is not okay.
Winter arrives. Gwyn secures a chapter on the rebirth of the Valkyries—“Our stories are worth telling.” The House reveals its heart. Nesta meets it with hers.

At Solstice, Rhys gifts Eris one of Nesta’s blades. Nesta dances. The room burns. Eris whispers truths about Mor. Cassian cuts in, trembling and brave. And then—Eris offers himself everything Rhys could want.

In exchange for Nesta as his bride.

Let’s get into it, Bunchies! 🗡️🔥