Author: Kiersten White
Genre: Fantasy; Young Adult
Rating: 8.5/10
Lada’s rule is one paved with bodies and blood but she sees nothing wrong with that. When she sends Mehmed’s envoy back in body bags, Mehmed and Radu have no choice but to declare war on the person they both love dearly.
I kept hoping against all odds that it won’t come to this, but the ending slowly became inevitable as the book went on. I was devastated that a happy ending was out of the cards for the characters. It was so frustrating reading about two headstrong leaders who just won’t budge on the conditions of a peace treaty nor their relationship. However, if they did, the book would not be nearly as compelling.
On the topic of their relationship, I have never simultaneously rooted for and against a romantic relationship before. On one hand, they are perfect equals in that they are ruled by ambition and are absolute geniuses when it comes to getting what they want. On the other hand, they betray each other time and time again in the name of that same ambition.
Moreover, I have never hated and loved a character at the same time. Lada is vicious and unhinged and towards the end, I felt as if she had damn well lost her mind. She is the definition of “I’ve already gone this far, I might as well just go all the way”. While I wanted her to concede and build her country the right way, it wouldn’t have felt right to watch her yield even a single step.
“After all, fire and blood and death were nothing to a country led by a dragon.”
As much as I find the setting and story of this series very exciting and engaging, the characters were what stood out to me. So let’s talk about Radu. He was the character that changed the most from the first book to the last. While Lada and Mehmed had aspirations that never wavered and knew what skills were already at their disposal, Radu really had to grow into his own skin. And that growth was what made him the most matured and likeable character of the three. His skills became the most invaluable especially when it came to handling Lada and Mehmed. Furthermore, his character arc felt natural and well thought out.
“But they were capable of greatness. Destined for it, even.”“
Then do not aim for greatness. Aim for goodness. And however you get there will be the right path for you, my sweet Radu.”
Needless to say, the book was full of morally grey characters as well as situations, making me feel conflicted on my thoughts and feelings at every turn.
I adored the ending. It was befitting the series but so very bittersweet. I enjoyed how the author was able to wrap up the story with important morals such as how those with too much ambition end up in power but alone. However, those who choose to act with empathy and choose the people around them over achievements will build the family they need. It is both a cruel yet comforting message.
This series has definitely left an impression on me. I never expected to enjoy it as much as I did but I am glad I picked it up. I felt that the series was developed beautifully from start to finish with great foreshadowing and attention to details.
“She was a dragon.
She was a prince.
She was a woman.
It was the last that scared them most of all.”
Reviewed by: N.G. Rainwater (1st reading)
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