After a lengthy four-month journey, I finally completed Hell Rising: Outlanders, Book 14, and I must admit, it was a bit of a slog. I started this installment back in May and just wrapped it up in September, which is a notable pause for me (but it’s not the longest I’ve taken on a book).

The narrative offers an ambitious exploration of its themes. This made the plot somewhat overwhelming. While I appreciate a well-crafted world, the sheer amount of detail often felt like it was being shoved down my throat, which likely contributed to my slow reading pace.

Despite its flaws, Hell Rising still managed to deliver moments of intrigue and tension that are characteristic of the Outlanders series. The characters remain engaging, and their development continues to be a highlight. I just wish the pacing had been a bit more balanced, allowing for a smoother flow of information without sacrificing the story's momentum.

While this installment didn’t quite reach the heights of previous books for me, it still offered enough compelling elements to keep me invested. If you're a fan of the series, it’s worth a read, but be prepared for a hefty dose of exposition along the way.