The standout character for me was Holland. We were given more of his background, his history, and waded through his newly revealed emotional baggage. It was very easy to sympathize with his decisions, to understand his anger at Red London, his longing for redemption, and even finally his hope for death. His redemption arc was masterfully pulled off. I enjoyed his connection to Kell and even his unsteady bond with Lila. His story is so bittersweet, wanting so much more for him, while also understanding the role he has played in the destruction of his world and Red London.
Rhy's character growth was also an important element to the narrative. He must become the hero of his city, must shed his easy-going attitude and take up his duty with purpose. I particularly enjoyed his relationship with Alucard. The two must put aside their past in order to work together, but must also come to trust one another and prove their love. Rhy's life is a mirror of the Shadow King using Ojka as a puppet. If Rhy's life only exists because of Kell's spell, is he real? Or is he dead? Kell and Lila's chemistry was perfect. They trusted each other, helped each other, pushed each other to be better, stronger, more caring. Kell's compassion for Holland irked Lila, but also made her rethink Holland's position and life (did he really have any choice?). Both sacrifice for each other continuously, Kell outright and Lila pretending not to care. He anchors her to this world and to the people within it, while she pushes him to seek his freedom and be selfish for a change. The Shadow King was a terrifying foe and it was very hard to imagine our heroes coming out unscathed. So, it was unsurprising that there are many moments where they suffered. This book asked a lot of the reader. To doubt what we had originally believed about certain characters, to suffer incredible losses with the main characters. The reader must remember that Schwab does not always allow for a happy ending, some of our favourite characters may not survive the narrative, but that is what makes the book so much more interesting and why it sits with you long after you have finished. In the end, this story unfolded tragically, but also beautifully. I highly recommend this series, especially just so you can get to this third book and be in awe of this world, this story, and these unforgettable characters.
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