Latest Read: The Bitter Kingdom by Rae Carson

Here are the basics ...
The Bitter Kingdom (Fire and Thorns, #3) by Rae Carson
Publication date: Aug. 27, 2013
Publisher: Greenwillow Books
Category: Young Adult - Fantasy
Source: Purchased

Summary: Elisa is a fugitive in her own country. Her enemies have stolen the man she loves in order to lure her to the gate of darkness. As she and her daring companions take one last quest into unknown enemy territory to save Hector, Elisa will face hardships she's never imagined. And she will discover secrets about herself and her world that could change the course of history. She must rise up as champion-a champion to those who have hated her most. (Adapted goodreads.com)

My thoughts…

The good: What I love about being immersed in a series is that you get to be with these characters for an extended period of time. Going on adventures with them, falling in love with them. The downside is that your expectations get higher with each passing book and you want the final one to be epic. I could not put down The Bitter Kingdom once I started and it is everything fans of the series have been hoping for and then some.

Elisa and her friends - Mara, Belen and Storm - are on the run. Elisa could be killed on sight at any moment, her kingdom is crumbling all around her, she's still uncertain as to what God's purpose is for her and she's trying to save Hector from the Inviernos. Needless to say, it is an action-packed book from start to finish. What's always impressed me though about Carson's writing are the details she puts into her world-building and in letting her characters evolve. I can see what she's created so clearly it almost feels like I'm there and I always feel for her characters so deeply. She manages to balance that while solidly pacing the story so there's barely ever a lull.

But what makes these books tick are the characters. Most of all, Elisa. She is one of the best developed characters in a series I've ever read. She's constantly growing and learning. She gains confidence, she has insecurities and always rises up to the occasion even when she's afraid. More than ever, you know this girl is supposed to be the queen. She surprised me so much throughout the book and one moment in particular made my jaw drop and want to cheer (seriously, you tell 'em!). But the supporting characters are just as important and engaging. Storm is endearing in this strange way of his, Mara and Belen are brave and the kind of friends Elisa needs in her life. And Hector is still wonderful, strong and passionate in this quiet, unassuming way. I love the romance between him and Elisa and how it's portrayed. It's important (and swoonworthy) but never overshadows the book or their purpose - to save the kingdom.

(No) reservations: None, it was the perfect end to the series.

Do I recommend?: Yes! If you're already a fan, then you should read this book as soon as possible. Questions are answered and nothing is left unresolved (that I can think of). Plus, more Hector and Elisa! And if you've never read the series, I highly suggest you check it out.

Happy reading!