A Court of Thorns and Roses
Chapter 27
by Maas, Sarah J.Feyre reflects on Tamlin’s explosive rage earlier in the day, which forced her and Lucien to leave the dining room. Overwhelmed by the aftermath, she retreats to her room, avoiding dinner and painting, while the echoes of Tamlin’s fury linger in the manor. Her thoughts drift to Rhysand’s ominous warnings about the blight, Under the Mountain, and the deadly Amarantha, who commands the High Lords. The weight of these threats unsettles her, especially knowing Tamlin is desperate to keep her hidden from Amarantha’s reach.
Tamlin visits Feyre’s room, apologizing for his outburst but delivering shocking news: he plans to send her home to protect her. He claims he’ll take responsibility for her life-debt, bypassing the Treaty’s terms. Feyre protests, questioning whether she did something wrong, but Tamlin insists she was perfect—his decision stems from his inability to shield her from the dangers looming over Prythian. His vulnerability surfaces as he admits his own powerlessness against Amarantha and her forces.
Their conversation grows tense as Feyre demands answers, but Tamlin refuses to elaborate, emphasizing that her safety depends on her departure. He warns her to keep her time in Prythian a secret, fearing Amarantha’s spies. Feyre pleads to stay, willing to face the threats alongside him, but Tamlin’s fear for her outweighs her defiance. He reveals the Attor and worse creatures serve Amarantha, making Prythian increasingly perilous. His desperation peaks as he confesses the thought of her in their hands terrifies him.
Despite the unresolved tension, their emotions culminate in a passionate kiss, a fleeting attempt to defy the inevitable separation. Feyre clings to Tamlin, hoping to halt time, but the chapter ends with the unspoken understanding that their goodbye may be permanent. Tamlin’s lie—“not forever”—hangs between them, a fragile comfort amid the looming storm of war and Amarantha’s shadow.
FAQs
1. Why does Tamlin decide to send Feyre home in this chapter?
Answer:
Tamlin decides to send Feyre home because he fears for her safety due to the growing threats in Prythian, particularly from Amarantha and her followers. After Rhysand’s intrusion and the revelation of Feyre’s importance to Tamlin, he realizes he cannot adequately protect her from these dangerous forces. He explains that even if they stood against the blight, Amarantha’s spies would hunt Feyre down. His emotional outburst—”I can’t even protect myself against them”—shows his vulnerability and desperation to keep Feyre safe, even if it means separating from her (Chapter 27, pages 243-245).2. How does Feyre react to Tamlin’s decision, and what does this reveal about her character?
Answer:
Feyre initially reacts with disbelief and anger, questioning whether she did something wrong to warrant being sent away. She argues that she can hold her own and even offers to help Tamlin, showing her bravery and loyalty. However, when Tamlin insists it’s for her safety, her anger melts into sadness, revealing her deeper attachment to him. Her whispered plea—”I want to stay with you”—and their passionate kiss demonstrate her emotional conflict between self-preservation and her growing love for Tamlin. This highlights her complex character: defiant yet vulnerable, independent yet deeply connected to Tamlin (Chapter 27, pages 243-246).3. What does the chapter reveal about the political tensions in Prythian, particularly regarding Amarantha?
Answer:
The chapter reveals that Prythian is under significant threat from Amarantha, a powerful figure who commands the High Lords and poses a danger to Tamlin and Feyre. Rhysand’s visit hints at her influence, as he seems to be under her control (“to hold Rhysand’s leash”). Tamlin’s fear of her is palpable—he mentions that she would “find a way to kill [Feyre]” and warns Feyre not to reveal any truths about her time in Prythian to avoid Amarantha’s spies. This underscores the oppressive, dangerous political climate and the limited power Tamlin has to resist her (Chapter 27, pages 243-244).4. Analyze the significance of the line: “I put my arms around his neck and kissed him,” in the context of their relationship.
Answer:
This line captures the bittersweet tension between Feyre and Tamlin. Despite knowing Tamlin’s promise of “not forever” is likely a lie, Feyre chooses to embrace him, symbolizing her willingness to cherish their fleeting moments together. Their kiss becomes an act of defiance against their separation and the external threats forcing them apart. It also highlights their deepening emotional and physical connection, as Feyre’s actions—pinning him down, kissing him fiercely—reflect her desire to make time stand still. This moment underscores the theme of love persisting even in the face of impending danger (Chapter 27, page 246).5. How does Tamlin’s emotional vulnerability in this chapter contrast with his earlier portrayal in the book?
Answer:
Earlier in the book, Tamlin is often depicted as a stoic, powerful High Lord, but this chapter reveals his raw vulnerability. His hoarse voice, trembling words, and admission—”I can’t even protect myself”—show a side of him overwhelmed by fear and helplessness. This contrasts sharply with his usual composed demeanor, emphasizing the gravity of the threats they face. His emotional outbursts (e.g., snarling, growling) and physical gestures (clutching Feyre’s hand, pressing his palms to his eyes) humanize him, making his decision to send Feyre away feel more tragic and desperate (Chapter 27, pages 243-245).
Quotes
1. “I lay in bed, watching the pools of moonlight shift on the floor. It was an effort not to dwell on Tamlin’s face as he ordered me and Lucien to leave and shut the door to the dining room.”
This opening quote establishes Feyre’s emotional turmoil and sets the tense atmosphere of the chapter. It highlights her internal struggle to process Tamlin’s rage and the aftermath of Rhysand’s visit.
2. “I shuddered each time I considered how deadly she must be to command the High Lords of Prythian. To hold Rhysand’s leash and to make Tamlin beg to keep me hidden from her.”
This reveals the terrifying power of Amarantha, the unseen antagonist. The quote underscores the threat looming over Prythian and explains why Tamlin is so desperate to protect Feyre.
3. “I’m sending you home, Feyre… Because there are people who would hurt you, Feyre. Hurt you because of what you are to me.”
Tamlin’s heartbreaking decision to send Feyre away represents a major turning point. This quote captures his protective desperation and the impossible choice between keeping her close and ensuring her safety.
4. “I’m sending you away because it makes me sick thinking about you in their hands!”
This raw outburst reveals Tamlin’s deepest fears and motivations. It shows his vulnerability beneath the anger and emphasizes the horrific dangers Feyre would face if she stayed.
5. “And though I knew it was a lie, I put my arms around his neck and kissed him.”
This poignant closing line captures the tragic romance at the chapter’s core. Feyre’s awareness of Tamlin’s false promise (“not forever”) contrasts with her desperate need to believe in their connection.