The perfect end to a fantastic trilogy
As soon as I started Prison Healer, Lynette Noni's first instalment in the trilogy of the same name, I knew I was on to something special. The imagery explored in the setting of Zalindov, the strong female lead and that ending twist really made for a special book that I raved about to anyone that would listen. The Gilded Cage (the second book), didn't grab me as much - it felt a lot like just set up for what was coming next and some of the YA love scenes and pining made my eyes roll. I was a little bit apprehensive, therefore about starting book 3!
I needn't have worried; The Blood Traitor is just as good as The Prison Healer and really made for a special end to the trilogy. There's an epic quest introduced as well as a lot of drama and plenty of twists and turns to keep you interested. Although the book is over 400 pages, it was paced really well and kept my interest throughout as I flew through it to find out what happened next.
In contrast to the previous book, there was quite a lot going on here with a lot of different cities and new characters to explore. I did almost feel like some of the plot could have been passed back to the second book, particularly as that one felt like filler at times. It did make for an exciting read though. I liked the addition of the new characters as well as some surprising returning faces as well. My only criticism is that Kiva really does suffer from 'main character' syndrome at times - everyone seems to love her no matter what she does and anything anyone does is always linked back to her. It makes her a bit exhausting as a hero character and I would have liked at least one character to not have just forgiven her pretty selfish and horrible actions throughout the trilogy.
This is the last book in the trilogy and it does end well and wraps up all of the storylines in a neat way. I enjoyed how the final battle concludes and think it was probably the best outcome for everyone. I would love a follow up to see what happens to each of these characters in the future but whatever Lynette writes next I will be looking out for!
Overall, The Blood Traitor is the perfect end to a fantastic trilogy. Thank you to NetGalley & Hodder & Stoughton for the chance to read the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
