April

I need the next book, immediately.

This was an good start to a series (duology?), even if some parts were predictable (and I slumped pretty significantly mid-book … like my reading pace halved). I say predictable, but only because of Riftborne and Duskborne. If I hadn’t read those first, I would have not connected any dots at all. That being said, I do agree with everyone else’s sentiments that reading those two books before this one is a wise choice.

Thatcher being Aether was definitely something I figured out very early on in the book (I’m talking like 13% in and I had it figured out). It didn’t feel like this was supposed to be a big secret with the hints the authors were dropping, but the ending kinda seemed like it was supposed to be a big reveal? Either way, the reveal wasn’t surprising.

Thais having this strong willed personality throughout the entire book and then just … flatlining at the very end didn’t make much sense to me. Her entire character arc made me think that when this happened, she’d be even *stronger*, not become weak and despondent. I hope it doesn’t take long into the second book for her to get that back.

Also, fuck Nyvora. Genuinely can’t wait until she gets hers.

Another great book in the series. Immediately buying #4!

A really solid read that I flew through pretty quickly. The characters were well fleshed out and the story kept me engaged, although I felt like the author was telling me what happened vs showing me. The bridge itself never fully came alive for me visually - I still can’t quite picture it which is a bit of a miss since it’s the centerpiece for this book. Nothing too surprising plot-wise, but an enjoyable ride!

The last 10% of this book pushed my 2.5 rating to a 3 and is the only reason why I want to read the second book.

I felt like there was way too much emphasis on her (desire? lust? high school-like crush?) for the MMC - who I intensely dislike, btw.

Honestly, I’m reading the second book because I want to learn more about Aether.