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mastersal's review against another edition
3.0
So this book points out why one should not leave a series in the middle, especially after a successful read because hype gets to you. (Plus, if you’re tired and grumpy - like me these days - you get more annoyed when you don't remember stuff
lesserjoke's review against another edition
4.0
Another strong fantasy adventure, following the returning heroes -- by this point fairly scattered across the realm -- as they navigate civil war, political intrigue, and unjust imprisonment amid the prophesied apocalypse still unfolding all around them. It's the bleakest hour yet for this world, but author Greg Keyes never totally succumbs to the 'grimdark' ethos marking much of the modern genre. Even with the villain's cruelty reaching new heights, the forces opposing him gain in might and capability as well, with their moments of triumph rendered all the more exciting for the steep odds against any ultimate victory in the larger scenario.
The narrative also remains interested in exploring the mysteries of the local history and lore that have been built up before now, and there are a few reveals on that front that are particularly satisfying. I don't normally consider Brandon Sanderson a touchstone for this series, but I think this volume resembles his work in the magical systems that have deeper rules than is clear at first glance, with wickedly cool implications that surface fully only some time later. (And there's at least one additional surprise coming in the final novel, from what I can remember.)
A few too many characters fall in love over the course of this book, which makes it harder to invest in any of their romances, but for the most part, it's a thrill ride through and through. The action is excellent and the overall worldbuilding continues to impress, with cultural flourishes that speak to the writer's background in academic anthropology. He's really created an immersive environment for this tale, and I'm eager to revisit the culmination of everything ahead.
[Content warning for torture and rape.]
Find me on Patreon | Goodreads | Blog | Twitter
The narrative also remains interested in exploring the mysteries of the local history and lore that have been built up before now, and there are a few reveals on that front that are particularly satisfying. I don't normally consider Brandon Sanderson a touchstone for this series, but I think this volume resembles his work in the magical systems that have deeper rules than is clear at first glance, with wickedly cool implications that surface fully only some time later. (And there's at least one additional surprise coming in the final novel, from what I can remember.)
A few too many characters fall in love over the course of this book, which makes it harder to invest in any of their romances, but for the most part, it's a thrill ride through and through. The action is excellent and the overall worldbuilding continues to impress, with cultural flourishes that speak to the writer's background in academic anthropology. He's really created an immersive environment for this tale, and I'm eager to revisit the culmination of everything ahead.
[Content warning for torture and rape.]
Find me on Patreon | Goodreads | Blog | Twitter
evilstudygroup's review against another edition
3.0
This trilogy (or more?) actually gets better as it progresses. The major powers within play like chess pieces that switch colors midway through a match. There are religious, politcal, and environmental undertones which make it more than just knights, magic, and swords+2.
hank's review against another edition
5.0
Took me long enough, my actual reading time has ground to a halt lately. Still love the series, don't see any flaws although I am sure they are there. Better than book two in my opinion.
padmenaberrie's review against another edition
4.0
Storyline is really good, novel and interesting, but Keyes makes it more complicated than it needs to be by making up words and using a LOT of them. At least have a glossary if that's how you wanna play...
loxleyhall's review against another edition
adventurous
dark
reflective
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.25
michellemm85's review against another edition
3.0
3.5/6
I’m sorry, but I don’t really care for Aspar and Stephen, I found myself skimming through their parts to push through. I loved Anne’s parts as usual and I’m VERY interested to see what happens to the one she freed. I’m glad Austra and Cazio became a couple! But Neil is still hung up on the wrong girl! Lol. If he and Anne aren’t a couple then I’m just gonna start shipping her with the last demon Prince (the Kept) lmao
I’m sorry, but I don’t really care for Aspar and Stephen, I found myself skimming through their parts to push through. I loved Anne’s parts as usual and I’m VERY interested to see what happens to the one she freed. I’m glad Austra and Cazio became a couple! But Neil is still hung up on the wrong girl! Lol. If he and Anne aren’t a couple then I’m just gonna start shipping her with the last demon Prince (the Kept) lmao
juliana_aldous's review against another edition
3.0
Okay continuation of series but not spectacular.
glowbump's review against another edition
adventurous
inspiring
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
4.5
jwels's review against another edition
5.0
This book was faster paced then the last two and I enjoyed it. I love the fact that I'm still surprised by the storyline and that I can't guess how it is all going to end.