This was such a very good series conclusion for me. [a:Marie Rutkoski|1238111|Marie Rutkoski|https://d.gr-assets.com/authors/1393378883p2/1238111.jpg] really did a good job on this one.

Let me discuss the ways I would look at a series conclusion:

1. Character Development. - Did the characters grow/change/evolved towards the series?

Kestrel and Arin has both gone through so much and it was very evident in the way they looked at things during this last book. Kestrel has to overcome her father issues and is now bolder and stronger than before. She, at some point, also came to terms with her feelings and opened up more with Arin. During the first two books, it was always Arin who was vocal/showy with affections, so it was really satisfying that Kestrel was now reciprocating. On Arin's end - he who kept believing he is blessed by the god of death and is on a killing spree. But towards the end, he chose forgiveness and redemption, rather than revenge. At some point, he lost that guilt when killing, so it was really impressive how he behaved towards the end.

2. How the villain met his doom. - A good story needs a good villain, and the way the protagonists triumph over the villain must be epic. We all know our heroes will win in the end, it's thrilling to see how they do.

There is a fantastic chapter where Rutkoski's talent in storytelling really shone. The 'final battle' was written in dual POV as Kestrel and Arin both fought their own enemies. It was fantastic. That chapter kept me on the edge. SO GOOD.

Spoiler

Gambling and poison -- how very Kestrel

3. Closure - There must be a finality; questions must be answered; quests must be done.

I was truly rooting for Arin and Kestrel in the end, just living in peace and away from all the politics. But alas, we didn't get that. I still think that the ending was really good. I was smiling all throughout those last pages, and my heart is just happy and giddy. And it was super nice to see Arin and Kestrel going back to basics at the end. Like they can be happy and in love, and life is simple. And I think not everyone will agree with me, but I find the ending with the general very fitting.

Spoiler

For the general to lose his arm, means he won't be able to fight anymore. And he had to live with the guilt of everything he has done. Death would have been the easier route - but it's not what he deserved. But whether him and Kestrel reconciles, Rutkoski leaves it up to our imagination.

I think the only criticism I have is that the minor characters didn't get to shine that much: Risha, Verex, Sarsine and even the Queen. I guess the major focus is just on Kestrel and Arin. Nevertheless, I loved it - the mind games, the strategy, the drama, the friendship, and the love.

I definitely recommend this series. READ THIS ALL OF YOU!!!!!