The Bronzed Beasts

Probably more of a 3.5.

This is one of those series that I've kept up with, not because I'm a huge fan, but because it's popular among my friends and I like knowing what all my friends are gushing about. And that's why I had to pick up this finale.

This was the first time I was listening to an audiobook in the trilogy, and I really think it helped my reading experience. I didn't feel the same urge to skip paragraphs or got bored, like how I did while reading the first two books; and I'm glad for that. It's very well narrated and I think everyone should give the format a try. The prose is beautiful as expected, and while I still find it too verbose at times, it didn't feel too difficult to get through. The pacing is also pretty quick, as the book takes place within a span of ten days. But I did find the story a bit predictable - I was quite sure that's how the book was gonna end (atleast parts of it), even if the epilogue was an unexpected surprise.

The characters remain the compelling reason to read this book and the trilogy. I've never been that much of a Severin fan, so he didn't endear to me much with his search for becoming a god. But I was glad to see him realize how he should treat his friends and apologize when necessary. Zofia and Enrique both really stepped up when circumstances were dire and proved to themselves that they are capable and wanted. I still don't know what role Hypnos plays in the group but his presence is soothing and nice, and I absolutely adore his dynamic with Zofia and Enrique. And Laila, she remains the strongest even when there's a literal countdown towards her death, and I liked that despite her deep love towards Severin, she still stood up to him and told her true thoughts.

In the end, this was a fine ending to the trilogy which I thought was great in parts and had some very good characters. If you are a fan of the previous books, I'm sure I don't need to convince you to read this one. And if you are someone who enjoys beautiful prose, cool ensemble cast, heists and puzzles and mysteries along with a dose of commentary on the perils of colonialism, then you should totally checkout The Gilded Wolves.