Although I did not read the final two books in this series back to back, I nearly did so I will write a combined review, especially given the fact that these are the fifth and sixth books in a
series. I have little to say in these views here that I have not already said in earlier reviews. de Castell’s character work continues to astound; Kellen is one of the best developed characters I have ever read. The world continued to expand although in a way that wave all the previous expansions together. I loved this series and need to continue in de Castell’s backlist ASAP.
I wish I could say that I found myself in the minority that appreciated the direction that Jackson took this series finale. Alas, I do not. While I completely understand why and how Pip did what she did, it feels like a tremendous disservice to her character. I will keep the series on my shelf but always wish that Jackson had gone a different direction with it.
Unlike my first time reading the opening to a series by Kim, The Last Fallen Star, I found myself hooked right from the start. Kim used this opening novel well to set the stage for the series and to explore deep societal issues using fantastical means to express them. I eagerly anticipate the sequel and hoe that Kim delivers on her promising set up.
I cannot believe that it too me this long to get back to the sequel. When I read the first book back in 2022, I wanted to continue right away yet somehow it took me three years. I really appreciated all the perspectives and how Kagawa furthered the development of Yumeko while preserving her lovable naiveté inherent in her character. Thankfully, I waited only a few days before picking up the conclusion to the trilogy.
I really wish that I had good things to say about this book. Unfortunately, even for a fan of “National Treasure” like myself, this book missed the mark. The characters read like flat, stereotypes – especially the villains. Additionally, the writing itself struggled in places -hiccups that would bring me right out of any immersion I managed to achieve. The book also could have done without the ridiculous epilogue which by setting up for a sequel, spoiled any resolution to the plot of this book that the author hoped to achieve.
