A review by whatsarahread
The Mirror King by Jodi Meadows

5.0

Well, well, well, Jodi Meadows. I hope you're proud of yourself. I hope it makes your heart sing to know that you have completely broken my feels. I thought you ruined me with the ending of "The Orphan Queen" (read my review), but then you went ahead and just HAD to write "The Mirror King". What the heck, Jodi?!

Okay, now that I got that out of my system, I can move on to my review. First things first, if you liked "The Orphan Queen", then you will absolutely LOVE "The Mirror King". It's everything you loved about the first book, taken to a whole new level. It's intense, heart-breaking, intriguing, hopeful and powerful. To watch Wil continue to grow and find herself as a character was my absolute favorite part of this book. She's the kind of character who isn't afraid to admit she's made mistakes and accept the fact that sometimes she has no clue what she is doing or how to prepare for it. But, she is also fiercely protective, loyal and will do whatever it takes to fight for those she loves. It was  a revelation to go on this journey with her, and I felt so connected to her character throughout this entire series. Huge props to Jodi Meadows for creating such a compelling character.

For as much as I loved Wil, I also became so connected to the stories of Tobiah, Melanie, James and even the Wraith Boy. The fact that Meadows was able to create this ensemble of characters that I cared so much about, is a true testament to her talent as an author. Each had their own history, motivations and authentic story arc, and ultimately, added so much to the story. Speaking of adding to the story, the relationship between Wil and Tobiah is so heart-wrenching. It's totally complicated, messy, and honestly, they have everything going against them. Things are NOT easy for these two to find a way to each other.

As you may have gathered from "The Orphan Queen", Meadows is NOT afraid to make some shocking narrative choices, and that trend continues in "The Mirror King". There were moments where I straight up gasped and was completely shocked by the turn of events. I love a book that keeps me on my toes, and you guys, this book does just that. It got to the point where I just had to accept the fact that nothing and no one was safe. It was truly epic and just brought the book to a whole new level. Not everyone can get their happily ever after, but even in the darkest moments, one can find a way to give meaning to their lives. For every choice Meadows made in this book, she gives a completely authentic and believable reason. Even if it hurts like hell.

Oh, by the way, the end of this book is absolute perfection. I'm not saying it some of it doesn't rip your heart out completely, but the way in which it does so is perfect! How's that for being a big tease!?

FINAL THOUGHTS…

"The Mirror King" is a beautiful and haunting conclusion to an epic fantasy series. The story of Wilhelmina and her quest to reclaim her destiny broke my heart and put it back together again.
Absolute Perfection!

This review was originally posted on what sarah read...