3.7 stars! this was one of my most anticipated releases next year, so i am so happy i got to read this earlier than expected! whereas the first book was epic and steadily constructed this beautiful, immersive world and where the second book was set to go, i was still pleasantly surprised by this book's twists and how much emotion it invoked from me. even though the transitions to certain scenes was confusing to follow, the pacing never let down. this was an adrenaline-packed book, which was engaging. this book definitely isn't perfect, like how i wished the secondary characters were more fleshed out and how i wish there were more slower moments in the second half (the latter half more than made up for it with its sentimental, poignant moments), but i still loved this book nevertheless, so you're going to hear me rave about it!

i'm not going to lie - the main reason why this was one of my most anticipated reads was because of lan and zen's romance which did not let me down in this book. their love just leapt off the page. it's not burning passion, but this steady stream of dedication and understanding and choice that i couldn't help but be soft for. the angst in the beginning was delicious to read, and i couldn't help but be hyped for their reunion after how the first book ended. i'm glad i didn't have to wait long in this book because their chemistry on the page is too good. and then the angst near the end? this book actually stabbed my heart. i was very much hurt because zen is so in love with lan. it shows in every chapter he leads, in his thoughts, and in his actions. and zen near the end of the book? [chef's kiss] so epic. i adore these characters and how they fit together because they are such a strong couple.

i did not know this was the last book in this series? the way the book ended made it seem that way, so i'll just go based off what i know and say that the ending of this series made me laugh and cry. also, this book made me literate again after not reading anything for a month (my longest book slump ever). so, i'm grateful for this book and the bittersweet feelings that rise in me when i think about everything it has put me through. so, even though there are mild criticisms that float in my mind, it really doesn't matter in the end because i adore this epic book so much.

thank you to the publisher and netgalley for providing me an arc for an honest review!