A review by takarakei
The Burning God by R.F. Kuang

adventurous challenging dark emotional sad medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? It's complicated
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

5.0

I'm actually trying to form words to express my feelings, and probably because I'm now dead, it's hard.

The dedication in the front of the book kind of says it all (not really a spoiler but..):
Spoiler"To my dear readers, who stayed with this series until the end, and came prepared with a bucket for their tears"


This whole series is devastating. Heartbreaking. Poignant. A true masterpiece. Honestly a new fantasy classic.

I think because of the sheer anticipation of it all ending, there were parts of this book that were slow to read. But as I said I think that's just because you are trying to mentally prepare yourself for the end, while also wanting it to kind of never end - because you're scared for the ending. Every interaction between Rin and Nezha you are holding your breath. The whole book is a rollercoaster of emotion.

Ending:
SpoilerIt's definitely very climactic! I knew how it had to end... but it doesn't make the last chapter/epilogue any less brutal to read. When Rin thinks Kitay has betrayed her, I was screaming. When she almost kills him, I was sobbing. When Nezha does what he must, I died. Literally my only qualm with the ending is that I wish Nezha's love was shown in a stolen kiss at the end. I was yearning for one moment of intimacy and pure love between them. If that had happen however I might actually have died of heartbreak.
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