River of Souls, Book 3
What is it about:
With Leos Dzavek dead and his Council in turmoil, the king of Veraene sees his chance to launch his long-desired war against Károví. Ilse Zhalina and Raul Kosenmark know the people of Károví are not so easily defeated, however. Raul sets off for Duenne to confront his king and retake his place in Veraene’s Court. Ilse Zhalina embarks on the long journey from Károví with a letter vital to their cause of peace. Both of them must beware of Markus Khandarr, King Armand’s most trusted Councilor and Raul’s long-time enemy, who has plans of his own.
What did I think of it:
This is a nice read mostly.
Ilse’s journey is full of danger and treachery and I was rooting for her to get back to Raul. She has to leave some people behind, but meets others along the way. I kept trying to guess who she could trust and who might stab her in the back.
Raul’s storyline is filled with even more intrigue and politics. New to me characters appeared, but from the context of the story I learned they were returning characters from the first book in this trilogy (which I didn’t read). Still I didn’t feel like I missed out on things. There were some pretty intense moments and situations and at times I wondered if this story could have a happy end.
I was a bit disappointed that some characters suddenly disappeared from the story without there being a real conclusion to their storyline, but the story was interesting enough that I didn’t mind too much.
All in all this story was pretty enjoyable and had me invested, until…
Close to the end there was a kind of Deus Ex Machina for something that really annoyed me. I must confess I was close to throwing the book across the room. This event was totally unnecessary in my opinion, and the book would have been much better without it.
With much grumbling I continued to read on and the conclusion of this trilogy is satisfying enough, although that one event colored my remaining reading experience I will confess. (I must add that it might be just me who got really annoyed, others might actually think this Deus Ex Machina is wonderful.)
So in the end I thought this was an enjoyable read until the last few chapters. I don’t think I will reread this series, but I might give another series by Bernobich a try.
Why should you read it:
It’s (mostly) an enjoyable Fantasy read.
blodeuedd
Right this series, I remember book 1 or 2. But now I wonder about that thing at the end
Melanie (YA Midnight Reads)
I thought this was Allegiant for a second. I’m not sure that this one will be up my alley though, to be honest.
Lovely review! <33
kimbacaffeinate
Those disappearing characters always bother me a little too, I am glad you enjoyed aspects of this one.
Carmel @ Rabid Reads
Sorry to hear that the last few chapters weren’t quite up to par. That’s unfortunate; sounds like it you enjoyed this trilogy overall though. Thanks for the review!
Joy (Joyousreads)
Oh hate it when a series ender disappoints. There’s been an infestation of that lately. Lol.
I’ve never read this series but you got my interest piqued about what happened towards the end. Hmmm…
aurian
Great review Sullivan, thank you! Not sure I will add this to my wishlist though.
Braine Talk Supe
I don’t mind Deux Ex Machina but it has to be appropriately placed otherwise it may take away a big chunk of the conflict resolution esp with fantasy books. We want the bad guys punished not whisked away! LOL
Great review though 🙂
Sullivan McPig
Thanks everyone!
brandileigh2003
Glad you enjoeyd for the most part but sad that some characters weren’t present without a real explanation
Lily B
erm characters disappearing mid story with no lead? ah… weird… I guess… but the overall story looks interesting.
kara-karina
Thanks for a great review, Sullivan! I have 1st book in this series but still haven’t read it.
Giselle
Huh that’s odd that characters are suddenly not there anymore, but it sounds like a decent read except the ending part you didn’t like which is a bummer!
Melissa (Books and Things)
I’m glad it was at least satisfying. Too bad characters were dropped. That also bugs me. Might have to check out this author!