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Blackthorn & Grim #3
Den of Wolves
Feather bright and feather fine, None shall harm this child of mine...
Healer Blackthorn knows all too well the rules of her bond to the fey: seek no vengeance, help any who ask, do only good. But after the recent ordeal she and her companion, Grim, have suffered, she knows she cannot let go of her quest to bring justice to the man who ruined her life.
Despite her personal struggles, Blackthorn agrees to help the princess of Dalriada in taking care of a troubled young girl who has recently been brought to court, while Grim is sent to the girl’s home at Wolf Glen to aid her wealthy father with a strange task—repairing a broken-down house deep in the woods. It doesn’t take Grim long to realize that everything in Wolf Glen is not as it seems—the place is full of perilous secrets and deadly lies...
Back at Winterfalls, the evil touch of Blackthorn’s sworn enemy reopens old wounds and fuels her long-simmering passion for justice. With danger on two fronts, Blackthorn and Grim are faced with a heartbreaking choice—to stand once again by each other’s side or to fight their battles alone...
Healer Blackthorn knows all too well the rules of her bond to the fey: seek no vengeance, help any who ask, do only good. But after the recent ordeal she and her companion, Grim, have suffered, she knows she cannot let go of her quest to bring justice to the man who ruined her life.
Despite her personal struggles, Blackthorn agrees to help the princess of Dalriada in taking care of a troubled young girl who has recently been brought to court, while Grim is sent to the girl’s home at Wolf Glen to aid her wealthy father with a strange task—repairing a broken-down house deep in the woods. It doesn’t take Grim long to realize that everything in Wolf Glen is not as it seems—the place is full of perilous secrets and deadly lies...
Back at Winterfalls, the evil touch of Blackthorn’s sworn enemy reopens old wounds and fuels her long-simmering passion for justice. With danger on two fronts, Blackthorn and Grim are faced with a heartbreaking choice—to stand once again by each other’s side or to fight their battles alone...
435 pages, Hardcover
First published September 27, 2016
230 people are currently reading
6010 people want to read
About the author
Juliet Marillier
79 books12.2k followersJuliet Marillier was born in Dunedin, New Zealand and grew up surrounded by Celtic music and stories. Her own Celtic-Gaelic roots inspired her to write her first series, the Sevenwaters Trilogy. Juliet was educated at the University of Otago, where she majored in music and languages, graduating BA and Bachelor of Music (Hons). Her lifelong interest in history, folklore and mythology has had a major influence on her writing.
Juliet is the author of twenty-one historical fantasy novels for adults and young adults, as well as a book of short fiction. Juliet's novels and short stories have won many awards.
Juliet lives in a 110 year old cottage in a riverside suburb of Perth, Western Australia. When not writing, she tends to her small pack of rescue dogs. She also has four adult children and eight grandchildren. Juliet is a member of the druid order OBOD (the Order of Bards, Ovates and Druids.)
Juliet is the author of twenty-one historical fantasy novels for adults and young adults, as well as a book of short fiction. Juliet's novels and short stories have won many awards.
Juliet lives in a 110 year old cottage in a riverside suburb of Perth, Western Australia. When not writing, she tends to her small pack of rescue dogs. She also has four adult children and eight grandchildren. Juliet is a member of the druid order OBOD (the Order of Bards, Ovates and Druids.)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 885 reviews
November 2, 2019
"I’ll go on any path you want," Grim said. "Might give you a push sometimes, keep you walking straight. But whatever happens, I’ll be right there beside you. Rain or shine. Shadows or light. Step for step. Always."
Mel 🖤🐶🐺🐾
November 12, 2025
2025 - 5 stars
Still perfect!
2016 read - 5 stars
An absolutely perfect ending (or maybe not the end?) to a truly masterful trilogy. Honestly, reading Marillier's books makes you realise how good fantasy can be. This book is definitely going on my favourites shelf.
I would rate the series as a whole as a strong 5 stars, with each book showing progressively more depth and development for both story and characters, and consistently top notch writing throughout. Blackthorn and Grim is one of my favourite series to date and highly recommended.
Still perfect!
2016 read - 5 stars
An absolutely perfect ending (or maybe not the end?) to a truly masterful trilogy. Honestly, reading Marillier's books makes you realise how good fantasy can be. This book is definitely going on my favourites shelf.
I would rate the series as a whole as a strong 5 stars, with each book showing progressively more depth and development for both story and characters, and consistently top notch writing throughout. Blackthorn and Grim is one of my favourite series to date and highly recommended.
December 22, 2022
It was everything I wanted, a spectacular ending to the series. I fell in love with the main characters, Blackthorn and Grim from the first book in the series.
Her life was turned upside down when the dictator and oppressor, lord Mathuin killed her husband and only son, she didn’t think she had it in her to find love and acceptance again but Grim rekindled a fire 🔥 she thought was long spent.
Blackthorn was strong, resilient and can hold her own. Together she and Grim helped people whenever they could, bringing healing not just to the body but also to the mind, and did it without asking for anything in return.
It was a fantastic and entertaining read; I had a great time.
4.5 stars!
Her life was turned upside down when the dictator and oppressor, lord Mathuin killed her husband and only son, she didn’t think she had it in her to find love and acceptance again but Grim rekindled a fire 🔥 she thought was long spent.
Blackthorn was strong, resilient and can hold her own. Together she and Grim helped people whenever they could, bringing healing not just to the body but also to the mind, and did it without asking for anything in return.
It was a fantastic and entertaining read; I had a great time.
4.5 stars!
October 30, 2016
Before reading -
Nov-16? OMG
Requested ARC on netgalley, fingers crossed!
After reading -
Oh I'm going to miss these two!
Amazing journey, great story & fantastic fantasy!
Full review to come (may be)
Nov-16? OMG
Requested ARC on netgalley, fingers crossed!
After reading -
Oh I'm going to miss these two!
Amazing journey, great story & fantastic fantasy!
Full review to come (may be)
November 1, 2016
5 of 5 stars at The BiblioSanctum https://bibliosanctum.com/2016/11/01/...
Books that get the five star treatment from me often have an emotional component to them, which would probably explain why I have consistently given the novels in the Blackthorn & Grim series full marks. That’s because every single one of them has been a boatload of feels, and this third installment is no exception. In fact, Den of Wolves might be the most poignant and moving of them all. I’ve laughed and cried with these characters through their triumphs and tribulations, and now I finally understand that everything we’d been through had been gradually building up to this crucial novel.
If you have not had the pleasure of meeting Blackthorn and Grim yet, the two of them make up one of the most extraordinary partnerships I’ve ever read, and their shared experiences in the previous books have only deepened that bond of trust and friendship. Blackthorn is a wise woman, her job to mend and heal and cure, but deep down inside she is still broken and raging with her desire for revenge on Mathuin of Laois, the man who destroyed everything she ever loved. The only thing keeping her from acting upon that anger is an oath she made to the fey who saved her life in exchange for a promise that she will not seek out her enemy for seven years and only do good deeds for the duration of that time. That and Grim, Blackthorn’s steadfast companion who has given her strength through the most difficult of times and kept her dark thoughts at bay when they threatened to take over.
The two of them have settled comfortably in Winterfalls, home of the Prince of Dalriada. This spring brings several changes, however. A troubled young woman named Cara has been sent to the court from Wolf Glen at the request of her wealthy father, and the princess of Dalriada has asked Blackthorn to spend some time with the awkward and tongue-tied girl. Meanwhile, Grim has been hired by the master of Wolf Glen for an elaborate new project—to build something called a Heartwood House, said to bring good luck to the owner because it would confer the blessings of every tree in the forest. The timing though, as Blackthorn and Grim suspect, cannot be a coincidence. Something feels wrong with the whole building project, and there must be a reason why Cara’s father does not want the girl around while construction is taking place. Wolf Glen is a web of secrets, and to unravel it, our protagonists will have to uncover the real legend behind the Heartwood House.
Once again, Den of Wolves follows the structure established by the first two books, following several POV characters. Blackthorn and Grim’s chapters are the most prominent of course, but Cara also adds her gentle, sensitive voice to this book along with the mysterious Bardán, the “wild man” whose real purpose will become known as the story unfolds. And like the previous books, this one also features a mystery, though the details surrounding our characters trying to solve it are perhaps less important than the final resolution itself, or even the fallout from the entire conflict. In fact, I think most readers will puzzle out the answers well before the end of the book, but ultimately it’s the all-pervasive tension that will whet your appetite for more.
To give you an idea of effectively this book managed to build and maintain momentum, it probably took me two or three sittings to read the first hundred pages or so, but only a single day to devour the remainder. While Den of Wolves is not what I would call a heart-pounding page-turner in the traditional sense, there’s just something so riveting about Marillier’s writing; her stories have a way of drawing you in, making you forget yourself and lose all sense of time and reality…like stepping into a fairy tale.
I’m also not ashamed to admit that I shed a few tears. This series overall has done a number on my emotions, and this novel once again destroyed me. While these books do contain their fair share of heartbreaking moments, I don’t think they are meant to be tearjerkers or sad stories per se, but if you have been following these characters since the beginning, it’s hard not to be affected. Blackthorn and Grim are such fantastic protagonists because Marillier is a true master at developing genuine, sympathetic, and well-rounded heroes and heroines you care about. They are both broken and flawed people but they still somehow manage to complete and bring out the best in each other, which makes the fact that they spent so much time apart in this novel very difficult to bear. After watching them go through so much, you want these characters to be happy.
Still, the idea that deliverance from the past can come in many forms and from the most unexpected of places is a theme that receives a lot of attention in this series. And it really came through here in Den of Wolves. If I talk any more about the relationship between Blackthorn and Grim I will be treading dangerously into spoiler territory, not to mention I will probably start tearing up again, but suffice to say I think fans of this series will be very satisfied with how things play out.
And speaking of which, whether I like it or not, this book does have the feel of an ending of sorts. Blackthorn’s “seven years” agreement with the fey regarding Mathuin had led me to anticipate there will be more than three books to this series, but Den of Wolves does leave things off with a definite sense of closure, and a satisfying one at that. However, the author has said in an interview that she has more ideas for future Blackthorn & Grim books, but in the end it will depend on what her publishers decide, so I am crossing my fingers.
No matter what happens though, these three books represent a complete arc, and Blackthorn & Grim is now one of my favorite series of all time. It is a truly stunning achievement, and mere words cannot express how much I love these books, or how much I will cherish these stories and characters. Juliet Marillier has drawn together the threads of passion, imagination and beauty to bring to life an enchanting vision of magic and awe. Absolutely not to be missed.
Books that get the five star treatment from me often have an emotional component to them, which would probably explain why I have consistently given the novels in the Blackthorn & Grim series full marks. That’s because every single one of them has been a boatload of feels, and this third installment is no exception. In fact, Den of Wolves might be the most poignant and moving of them all. I’ve laughed and cried with these characters through their triumphs and tribulations, and now I finally understand that everything we’d been through had been gradually building up to this crucial novel.
If you have not had the pleasure of meeting Blackthorn and Grim yet, the two of them make up one of the most extraordinary partnerships I’ve ever read, and their shared experiences in the previous books have only deepened that bond of trust and friendship. Blackthorn is a wise woman, her job to mend and heal and cure, but deep down inside she is still broken and raging with her desire for revenge on Mathuin of Laois, the man who destroyed everything she ever loved. The only thing keeping her from acting upon that anger is an oath she made to the fey who saved her life in exchange for a promise that she will not seek out her enemy for seven years and only do good deeds for the duration of that time. That and Grim, Blackthorn’s steadfast companion who has given her strength through the most difficult of times and kept her dark thoughts at bay when they threatened to take over.
The two of them have settled comfortably in Winterfalls, home of the Prince of Dalriada. This spring brings several changes, however. A troubled young woman named Cara has been sent to the court from Wolf Glen at the request of her wealthy father, and the princess of Dalriada has asked Blackthorn to spend some time with the awkward and tongue-tied girl. Meanwhile, Grim has been hired by the master of Wolf Glen for an elaborate new project—to build something called a Heartwood House, said to bring good luck to the owner because it would confer the blessings of every tree in the forest. The timing though, as Blackthorn and Grim suspect, cannot be a coincidence. Something feels wrong with the whole building project, and there must be a reason why Cara’s father does not want the girl around while construction is taking place. Wolf Glen is a web of secrets, and to unravel it, our protagonists will have to uncover the real legend behind the Heartwood House.
Once again, Den of Wolves follows the structure established by the first two books, following several POV characters. Blackthorn and Grim’s chapters are the most prominent of course, but Cara also adds her gentle, sensitive voice to this book along with the mysterious Bardán, the “wild man” whose real purpose will become known as the story unfolds. And like the previous books, this one also features a mystery, though the details surrounding our characters trying to solve it are perhaps less important than the final resolution itself, or even the fallout from the entire conflict. In fact, I think most readers will puzzle out the answers well before the end of the book, but ultimately it’s the all-pervasive tension that will whet your appetite for more.
To give you an idea of effectively this book managed to build and maintain momentum, it probably took me two or three sittings to read the first hundred pages or so, but only a single day to devour the remainder. While Den of Wolves is not what I would call a heart-pounding page-turner in the traditional sense, there’s just something so riveting about Marillier’s writing; her stories have a way of drawing you in, making you forget yourself and lose all sense of time and reality…like stepping into a fairy tale.
I’m also not ashamed to admit that I shed a few tears. This series overall has done a number on my emotions, and this novel once again destroyed me. While these books do contain their fair share of heartbreaking moments, I don’t think they are meant to be tearjerkers or sad stories per se, but if you have been following these characters since the beginning, it’s hard not to be affected. Blackthorn and Grim are such fantastic protagonists because Marillier is a true master at developing genuine, sympathetic, and well-rounded heroes and heroines you care about. They are both broken and flawed people but they still somehow manage to complete and bring out the best in each other, which makes the fact that they spent so much time apart in this novel very difficult to bear. After watching them go through so much, you want these characters to be happy.
Still, the idea that deliverance from the past can come in many forms and from the most unexpected of places is a theme that receives a lot of attention in this series. And it really came through here in Den of Wolves. If I talk any more about the relationship between Blackthorn and Grim I will be treading dangerously into spoiler territory, not to mention I will probably start tearing up again, but suffice to say I think fans of this series will be very satisfied with how things play out.
And speaking of which, whether I like it or not, this book does have the feel of an ending of sorts. Blackthorn’s “seven years” agreement with the fey regarding Mathuin had led me to anticipate there will be more than three books to this series, but Den of Wolves does leave things off with a definite sense of closure, and a satisfying one at that. However, the author has said in an interview that she has more ideas for future Blackthorn & Grim books, but in the end it will depend on what her publishers decide, so I am crossing my fingers.
No matter what happens though, these three books represent a complete arc, and Blackthorn & Grim is now one of my favorite series of all time. It is a truly stunning achievement, and mere words cannot express how much I love these books, or how much I will cherish these stories and characters. Juliet Marillier has drawn together the threads of passion, imagination and beauty to bring to life an enchanting vision of magic and awe. Absolutely not to be missed.
November 1, 2016
***Review posted on The Eater of Books! blog***
Den of Wolves by Juliet Marillier
Book Three of the Blackthorn & Grim series
Publisher: Roc
Publication Date: November 1, 2016
Rating: 4 stars
Source: ARC sent by the publisher
Summary (from Goodreads):
Feather bright and feather fine, None shall harm this child of mine...
Healer Blackthorn knows all too well the rules of her bond to the fey: seek no vengeance, help any who ask, do only good. But after the recent ordeal she and her companion, Grim, have suffered, she knows she cannot let go of her quest to bring justice to the man who ruined her life.
Despite her personal struggles, Blackthorn agrees to help the princess of Dalriada in taking care of a troubled young girl who has recently been brought to court, while Grim is sent to the girl’s home at Wolf Glen to aid her wealthy father with a strange task—repairing a broken-down house deep in the woods. It doesn’t take Grim long to realize that everything in Wolf Glen is not as it seems—the place is full of perilous secrets and deadly lies...
Back at Winterfalls, the evil touch of Blackthorn’s sworn enemy reopens old wounds and fuels her long-simmering passion for justice. With danger on two fronts, Blackthorn and Grim are faced with a heartbreaking choice—to stand once again by each other’s side or to fight their battles alone...
What I Liked:
This book... this book was everything I'd hoped for, and then some. I don't know how Marillier does it! She stunned me with Dreamer's Pool, ensnared me with Tower of Thorns... and now Den of Wolves has captured my heart. Honestly this series has been so amazing. I don't read a ton of adult fantasy fiction (a lot of adult romance, yes), but I think it's safe to declare this series my favorite adult fantasy fiction series. I am utterly amazed!
In this final novel, Blackthorn and Grim are separated almost immediately. Blackthorn has new responsibilities at Winterfalls, keeping a young girl occupied and taking care of her. Cara, the young girl has been sent to court by her father, to learn social etiquette and comportment. But Blackthorn quickly sees that Cara does not belong in court, and should be back at her forested home in Wolf Glen. Meanwhile, Cara's father employs Grim to rebuild a heartwood house that was once nearly completed, in Wolf Glen. Something is very strange about the two occurrences (Cara being sent to Winterfalls, and Grim being called to Wolf Glen to build the house, with a deranged master builder). Blackthorn and Grim are forced apart, but they will need each other to understand what is happening.
Each of the books in this series is so unique and captivating in its own way. The series is a continuous series (not a companion series), yet it almost seems like you could read each one individually (though I don't recommend it). This story introduces many new characters that weren't present previously in the series, as well as many of the characters in the other two books were not in this book.
I love how subtly (and sometimes not so subtly) feminist this story is - and Blackthorn is. Blackthorn is blunt and loyal and so strong and capable, but she's also vulnerable and very human. But she is every inch the warrior that Grim sees in her, that she begins to see in herself. Blackthorn becomes selfless on her own, regardless of her agreement with Conmael.
I loved Grim's narrations as well as Blackthorn's. Grim has a distinct manner of thinking, a distinct voice. He's rough on the edges, and a rather large guy, but he is kind and pensive and he sees right through everyone. He's loyal and generous to a fault. He and Blackthorn are such a good pair because they complement each other really well. They have a strong bond, which is friendship, mostly.
There is a third and fourth narration, but those two are in third-person (whereas Blackthorn's and Grim's are in first-person). Cara has quite a story to tell, as does the wild man that is the master builder of the heartwood house (Bardan). Bardan's narratives were often confusing, but it becomes apparent as to why. Cara's narratives are not confusing but those of a frustrated fifteen-year-old.
I love how it seemed like this story was going in two different directions (Blackthorn's, and Grim's), but the two plots converge and intertwine rather neatly. Bardan is not a random master builder, and Wolf Glen is not a random holding with no secrets. It was so clever and mind-blowing and intriguing, what secrets this holding had hidden away, and Cara's father too.
I love the way the author weaves the story together, and her writing as well. Her world-building is so meticulously crafted, and her years of experience in writing novels really shows. This series is quite the masterpiece, in my opinion. There is magic in this story, and fey, and a twisted tale that dictates a lot of the history of certain characters of the story. Which was intriguing! And sad, too.
It's safe to say that there really is no "romance" in the book. Blackthorn and Grim have a deep friendship, but we can all see that it runs deeper than that. But nothing on the romance end happens... until the very end. Which I liked, because the story didn't need romance, but I liked that it was a bit of an afterthought.
You can probably tell how much I enjoyed this book! Dreamer's Pool remains my favorite, but this book definitely comes next. I loved all three books so it's hard to have a favorite. I am sad that the series is over, but I loved how it ended!
What I Did Not Like:
The only thing I think I'd take issue with is that this one took a little more to get into, versus the other two books. I had a bit of trouble with the first hundred pages or so. Maybe it was just me though! (I was a little tired, when starting the book.)
Would I Recommend It:
If you like adult fantasy fiction, then this is definitely a series to try! It was such a lovely and adventurous and spellbinding series. This conclusion really does not disappoint; there was magic, fey, spells, lore, secrets, and nonstop guessing as to what would happen next. This book (and series) was highly enjoyable, and definitely the kind that you want to savor!
Rating:
4.5 stars. I'm rounding down to 4 stars. This series is so, so good. I think I may need to binge-read some of Marillier's other books! I'm glad my first experience with her books was so positive. She is quite the talented writer, and I look forward to reading more from her in the future!
Pre-read squees:
OMG OMG OMG OMG OMG I NEED THIS BOOK! I loved Dreamer's Pool and Tower of Thorns, cannot wait to dig in to this third novel!
You can see my reviews of the first two books below:
Dreamer's Pool
Tower of Thorns
Den of Wolves by Juliet Marillier
Book Three of the Blackthorn & Grim series
Publisher: Roc
Publication Date: November 1, 2016
Rating: 4 stars
Source: ARC sent by the publisher
Summary (from Goodreads):
Feather bright and feather fine, None shall harm this child of mine...
Healer Blackthorn knows all too well the rules of her bond to the fey: seek no vengeance, help any who ask, do only good. But after the recent ordeal she and her companion, Grim, have suffered, she knows she cannot let go of her quest to bring justice to the man who ruined her life.
Despite her personal struggles, Blackthorn agrees to help the princess of Dalriada in taking care of a troubled young girl who has recently been brought to court, while Grim is sent to the girl’s home at Wolf Glen to aid her wealthy father with a strange task—repairing a broken-down house deep in the woods. It doesn’t take Grim long to realize that everything in Wolf Glen is not as it seems—the place is full of perilous secrets and deadly lies...
Back at Winterfalls, the evil touch of Blackthorn’s sworn enemy reopens old wounds and fuels her long-simmering passion for justice. With danger on two fronts, Blackthorn and Grim are faced with a heartbreaking choice—to stand once again by each other’s side or to fight their battles alone...
What I Liked:
This book... this book was everything I'd hoped for, and then some. I don't know how Marillier does it! She stunned me with Dreamer's Pool, ensnared me with Tower of Thorns... and now Den of Wolves has captured my heart. Honestly this series has been so amazing. I don't read a ton of adult fantasy fiction (a lot of adult romance, yes), but I think it's safe to declare this series my favorite adult fantasy fiction series. I am utterly amazed!
In this final novel, Blackthorn and Grim are separated almost immediately. Blackthorn has new responsibilities at Winterfalls, keeping a young girl occupied and taking care of her. Cara, the young girl has been sent to court by her father, to learn social etiquette and comportment. But Blackthorn quickly sees that Cara does not belong in court, and should be back at her forested home in Wolf Glen. Meanwhile, Cara's father employs Grim to rebuild a heartwood house that was once nearly completed, in Wolf Glen. Something is very strange about the two occurrences (Cara being sent to Winterfalls, and Grim being called to Wolf Glen to build the house, with a deranged master builder). Blackthorn and Grim are forced apart, but they will need each other to understand what is happening.
Each of the books in this series is so unique and captivating in its own way. The series is a continuous series (not a companion series), yet it almost seems like you could read each one individually (though I don't recommend it). This story introduces many new characters that weren't present previously in the series, as well as many of the characters in the other two books were not in this book.
I love how subtly (and sometimes not so subtly) feminist this story is - and Blackthorn is. Blackthorn is blunt and loyal and so strong and capable, but she's also vulnerable and very human. But she is every inch the warrior that Grim sees in her, that she begins to see in herself. Blackthorn becomes selfless on her own, regardless of her agreement with Conmael.
I loved Grim's narrations as well as Blackthorn's. Grim has a distinct manner of thinking, a distinct voice. He's rough on the edges, and a rather large guy, but he is kind and pensive and he sees right through everyone. He's loyal and generous to a fault. He and Blackthorn are such a good pair because they complement each other really well. They have a strong bond, which is friendship, mostly.
There is a third and fourth narration, but those two are in third-person (whereas Blackthorn's and Grim's are in first-person). Cara has quite a story to tell, as does the wild man that is the master builder of the heartwood house (Bardan). Bardan's narratives were often confusing, but it becomes apparent as to why. Cara's narratives are not confusing but those of a frustrated fifteen-year-old.
I love how it seemed like this story was going in two different directions (Blackthorn's, and Grim's), but the two plots converge and intertwine rather neatly. Bardan is not a random master builder, and Wolf Glen is not a random holding with no secrets. It was so clever and mind-blowing and intriguing, what secrets this holding had hidden away, and Cara's father too.
I love the way the author weaves the story together, and her writing as well. Her world-building is so meticulously crafted, and her years of experience in writing novels really shows. This series is quite the masterpiece, in my opinion. There is magic in this story, and fey, and a twisted tale that dictates a lot of the history of certain characters of the story. Which was intriguing! And sad, too.
It's safe to say that there really is no "romance" in the book. Blackthorn and Grim have a deep friendship, but we can all see that it runs deeper than that. But nothing on the romance end happens... until the very end. Which I liked, because the story didn't need romance, but I liked that it was a bit of an afterthought.
You can probably tell how much I enjoyed this book! Dreamer's Pool remains my favorite, but this book definitely comes next. I loved all three books so it's hard to have a favorite. I am sad that the series is over, but I loved how it ended!
What I Did Not Like:
The only thing I think I'd take issue with is that this one took a little more to get into, versus the other two books. I had a bit of trouble with the first hundred pages or so. Maybe it was just me though! (I was a little tired, when starting the book.)
Would I Recommend It:
If you like adult fantasy fiction, then this is definitely a series to try! It was such a lovely and adventurous and spellbinding series. This conclusion really does not disappoint; there was magic, fey, spells, lore, secrets, and nonstop guessing as to what would happen next. This book (and series) was highly enjoyable, and definitely the kind that you want to savor!
Rating:
4.5 stars. I'm rounding down to 4 stars. This series is so, so good. I think I may need to binge-read some of Marillier's other books! I'm glad my first experience with her books was so positive. She is quite the talented writer, and I look forward to reading more from her in the future!
Pre-read squees:
OMG OMG OMG OMG OMG I NEED THIS BOOK! I loved Dreamer's Pool and Tower of Thorns, cannot wait to dig in to this third novel!
You can see my reviews of the first two books below:
Dreamer's Pool
Tower of Thorns
April 7, 2017
❤ Grim ❤
An Ode To Grim by Jess:
I will love Grim forever and a day,
Because not only does he believe in the fey,
But he's strong, he's gentle, he's made for me,
Come here Grim, I want to have your babies.
❤ Grim ❤
GRIM IS THE BEST. LOOK OUT RAAHOSH, GRIM IS COMING FOR YOU.
Grim lives in my man-pasture and I love him so much it hurts.
This was a beautiful finale to a lovely series. I cried several times because Grim is just so wonderful and Blackthorn was actually a decent human being this time around.
Thoroughly enjoyed every page.
Loves
❤ Grim ❤
4 Stars
An Ode To Grim by Jess:
I will love Grim forever and a day,
Because not only does he believe in the fey,
But he's strong, he's gentle, he's made for me,
Come here Grim, I want to have your babies.
❤ Grim ❤
GRIM IS THE BEST. LOOK OUT RAAHOSH, GRIM IS COMING FOR YOU.
Grim lives in my man-pasture and I love him so much it hurts.
This was a beautiful finale to a lovely series. I cried several times because Grim is just so wonderful and Blackthorn was actually a decent human being this time around.
Thoroughly enjoyed every page.
Loves
❤ Grim ❤
4 Stars
March 15, 2017
Reviewed by: Rabid Reads
DEN OF WOLVES picks up where TOWER OF THORNS left off. Blackthorn and Grim have returned to their cottage, Blackthorn curmudgeonly about her recent revelations and Grim silently and steadfastly enduring.
Once again, their attempt at a quiet life is interrupted, this time by a young girl who has been thrust upon our Prince to chaperone for an indefinite period of time. The girl is a wild thing, despite being the only daughter of a widowed lord, and she escapes into the forest near B&G's cottage whenever she can.
Stuff happens and Blackthorn takes Cara under her wing, and thus begins the slow unraveling of this installment's fairytale-like mystery.
This is going to be a short review, b/c:
1. I'm sad the series is over. VERY sad.
2. Fairytale-like mysteries are best unraveled by the reader.
3. It was so damn lovely that I'm having a hard time putting all of my FEELS into words.
I actually read DEN OF WOLVES weeks ago, but it's taken me this long to cobble together even this semblance of a review. Suffice it to say that this was my favorite individual plot.
The outline of the mystery isn't difficult to guess, but the particulars are exceptional, and while it didn't pack the same emotional punch as TOWER OF THORNS, there's something to be said for the perfect ending that creeps up on you---I spent the last hundred or so pages constantly checking my progress, convinced there wasn't enough time to satisfactorily resolve ALL THE THINGS.
*shakes head at self* (B/c Juliet Marillier is a GODDESS.)
Sometimes a series ends and while there are no fireworks, no parade, no idiot celebrities fist-pumping on couches . . . it is perfect. Quietly perfect, but perfect nonetheless. Highly recommended.
My other reviews for this series:
Dreamer's Pool (Blackthorn & Grim, #1) by Juliet Marillier
Tower of Thorns (Blackthorn & Grim, #2) by Juliet Marillier
DEN OF WOLVES picks up where TOWER OF THORNS left off. Blackthorn and Grim have returned to their cottage, Blackthorn curmudgeonly about her recent revelations and Grim silently and steadfastly enduring.
Once again, their attempt at a quiet life is interrupted, this time by a young girl who has been thrust upon our Prince to chaperone for an indefinite period of time. The girl is a wild thing, despite being the only daughter of a widowed lord, and she escapes into the forest near B&G's cottage whenever she can.
Stuff happens and Blackthorn takes Cara under her wing, and thus begins the slow unraveling of this installment's fairytale-like mystery.
This is going to be a short review, b/c:
1. I'm sad the series is over. VERY sad.
2. Fairytale-like mysteries are best unraveled by the reader.
3. It was so damn lovely that I'm having a hard time putting all of my FEELS into words.
I actually read DEN OF WOLVES weeks ago, but it's taken me this long to cobble together even this semblance of a review. Suffice it to say that this was my favorite individual plot.
The outline of the mystery isn't difficult to guess, but the particulars are exceptional, and while it didn't pack the same emotional punch as TOWER OF THORNS, there's something to be said for the perfect ending that creeps up on you---I spent the last hundred or so pages constantly checking my progress, convinced there wasn't enough time to satisfactorily resolve ALL THE THINGS.
*shakes head at self* (B/c Juliet Marillier is a GODDESS.)
Sometimes a series ends and while there are no fireworks, no parade, no idiot celebrities fist-pumping on couches . . . it is perfect. Quietly perfect, but perfect nonetheless. Highly recommended.
My other reviews for this series:
Dreamer's Pool (Blackthorn & Grim, #1) by Juliet Marillier
Tower of Thorns (Blackthorn & Grim, #2) by Juliet Marillier
May 1, 2018
“We are caught, Blackthorn and me. Caught by the promises we’ve made.”
No swoon. Let me rephrase that. This one was dreary; just Dreary & Irritating. If you are looking for alternative nicknames of the main protagonists, these are my propositions.
The concluding instalment to the Blackthorn and Grim series featuring the cranky healer Blackthorn and her stern companion Grim finalises two main motifs of the whole trilogy: the relationship between the protagonists and their final reckoning with the past. In short love and justice. Additionally, in the manner typical for this series, a supernatural mystery begs to be solved and it takes our duo to tackle it.
Just like in the previous instalments, the mystery was interesting (if simple) There is a fabled heartwood house and Cara, a girl talking to trees and making friends with birds while simultaneously refusing to speak with humans. A nice crossover with the Sevensweaters series is also among the pros as is the explanation regarding Conmael's story.
Unfortunately, the cons are more substantial. Blackthorn posed the main problem for me. She started as such a promising heroine. Prickly. Worn out but not defeated. Uncompromising. Obviously, she went through a character development but it happened to the detriment of the original idea. In this part, we have been repeatedly told how is she not: nice, polite, touchy-feely, and so on, whereas all the actions she has actually undertaken were to the contrary. When you read that somebody is ”hardly known for my warmth and tact” and every single deed proves them to possess plenty of both, the whole character is compromised and loses credibility. A character that is not credible is a character hard to bond with. Lack of bonds means you just don’t care what is going on - and this is precisely what experienced when reading the Den of Wolves. Romance? I didn't feel it; not a spark. Justice? It felt flat for me in the end (mainly because it was rushed and ended with foreseeable result).
All the books in the series could be trimmed a bit and wouldn't lose anything. Dramatised narrative that hits the reader from the first sentence is very tiring in the long run and the frequent monologues repeating the same thing over and over from a slightly different angle tend to be boring.
I think I have saturated myself with Ms Marillier’s prose so much that I will probably not touch her book for next 10 years. If you are wondering why I had read her novels in the first place, you should know that I like romantasy and an insane number of her books featured on various the best of lists. Having read them all I just don't understand how come they were listed there (and so high!).
On the other hand, if you are a fan of an old-fashioned, overtalked, slow-burn romances with no violence or explicit sexual content, you should definitely give Ms Marillier a chance to win you over.
---
Also in the series:
1. Dreamer's Pool
2. Thower of Thorns
The concluding instalment to the Blackthorn and Grim series featuring the cranky healer Blackthorn and her stern companion Grim finalises two main motifs of the whole trilogy: the relationship between the protagonists and their final reckoning with the past. In short love and justice. Additionally, in the manner typical for this series, a supernatural mystery begs to be solved and it takes our duo to tackle it.
Just like in the previous instalments, the mystery was interesting (if simple) There is a fabled heartwood house and Cara, a girl talking to trees and making friends with birds while simultaneously refusing to speak with humans. A nice crossover with the Sevensweaters series is also among the pros as is the explanation regarding Conmael's story.
Unfortunately, the cons are more substantial. Blackthorn posed the main problem for me. She started as such a promising heroine. Prickly. Worn out but not defeated. Uncompromising. Obviously, she went through a character development but it happened to the detriment of the original idea. In this part, we have been repeatedly told how is she not: nice, polite, touchy-feely, and so on, whereas all the actions she has actually undertaken were to the contrary. When you read that somebody is ”hardly known for my warmth and tact” and every single deed proves them to possess plenty of both, the whole character is compromised and loses credibility. A character that is not credible is a character hard to bond with. Lack of bonds means you just don’t care what is going on - and this is precisely what experienced when reading the Den of Wolves. Romance? I didn't feel it; not a spark. Justice? It felt flat for me in the end (mainly because it was rushed and ended with foreseeable result).
All the books in the series could be trimmed a bit and wouldn't lose anything. Dramatised narrative that hits the reader from the first sentence is very tiring in the long run and the frequent monologues repeating the same thing over and over from a slightly different angle tend to be boring.
I think I have saturated myself with Ms Marillier’s prose so much that I will probably not touch her book for next 10 years. If you are wondering why I had read her novels in the first place, you should know that I like romantasy and an insane number of her books featured on various the best of lists. Having read them all I just don't understand how come they were listed there (and so high!).
On the other hand, if you are a fan of an old-fashioned, overtalked, slow-burn romances with no violence or explicit sexual content, you should definitely give Ms Marillier a chance to win you over.
---
Also in the series:
1. Dreamer's Pool
2. Thower of Thorns
December 3, 2016
Blackthorn and Grim have come such a long way. From traumatized survivors of the evil Mathuin's torturous lockup, to broken people doing their best to help people while under a powerful Fey's curse, to two people gradually realizing that they have something to live for after all.
In this book, Grim is called upon to help build a magical house for a nearby nobleman, but his involvement threatens to uncover a great wrong done long ago and covered up. Meanwhile Blackthorn is also dealing with the nobleman's daughter and her own personal issues with Mathuin also arise.
Blackthorn is not stupid, and she understands how the curse in the previous book was broken. This book is in part how she responds to that. The theme of the revelation of truth runs throughout, with Mathuin finally getting directly involved, the nobleman looking for his heartwood house and what's going on with the Fey-touched master builder directing Grim's work as well as how the secrets revealed affect the nobleman's daughter. And there's also the truth of Blackthorn and Grim's lives and Conmael's involvement.
Such a wonderful wrap-up to this brilliant series, and this one is easily the best of the three so far. For anyone concerned, this story could be an ending to Blackthorn and Grim's stories. It's satisfying in all the ways it needs to be, but it doesn't preclude there being more in this series.
In this book, Grim is called upon to help build a magical house for a nearby nobleman, but his involvement threatens to uncover a great wrong done long ago and covered up. Meanwhile Blackthorn is also dealing with the nobleman's daughter and her own personal issues with Mathuin also arise.
Blackthorn is not stupid, and she understands how the curse in the previous book was broken. This book is in part how she responds to that. The theme of the revelation of truth runs throughout, with Mathuin finally getting directly involved, the nobleman looking for his heartwood house and what's going on with the Fey-touched master builder directing Grim's work as well as how the secrets revealed affect the nobleman's daughter. And there's also the truth of Blackthorn and Grim's lives and Conmael's involvement.
Such a wonderful wrap-up to this brilliant series, and this one is easily the best of the three so far. For anyone concerned, this story could be an ending to Blackthorn and Grim's stories. It's satisfying in all the ways it needs to be, but it doesn't preclude there being more in this series.
October 8, 2019
(review in English below)
4,5*
Muito bom! Senti-me completamente envolvida nesta história e só queria que não acabasse.
Não posso falar muito sobre o que me agradou tanto sem dar spoilers, por isso vou só dizer que gostei muito da forma como a autora rematou a narrativa que já vinha do primeiro volume desta trilogia e que tem que ver com a relação entre Blackthorn e Grim, e também gostei muito da história de Cara e da Casa da Madeira de Dentro.
Para quem, como eu, achou o primeiro volume da trilogia algo abaixo do nível a que a Juliet nos habituou, só posso recomendar que não desistam e leiam os restantes livros, pois vale a pena!
4.5 stars
So good! I felt completely immersed in this story, just wishing it wouldn't end.
I can't say too much about what pleased me so much without giving spoilers, so I'll just say I really enjoyed the way the author ended the narrative that had begun in the first book, connected to Blackthorn and Grim relationship, and I also liked the story of Cara and the Heartwood House.
For those, like me, who found the first volume of this trilogy a bit below the level that Juliet got us used to, I can only say you shouldn't give up and you should read the remaining books, because it's worth it!
4,5*
Muito bom! Senti-me completamente envolvida nesta história e só queria que não acabasse.
Não posso falar muito sobre o que me agradou tanto sem dar spoilers, por isso vou só dizer que gostei muito da forma como a autora rematou a narrativa que já vinha do primeiro volume desta trilogia e que tem que ver com a relação entre Blackthorn e Grim, e também gostei muito da história de Cara e da Casa da Madeira de Dentro.
Para quem, como eu, achou o primeiro volume da trilogia algo abaixo do nível a que a Juliet nos habituou, só posso recomendar que não desistam e leiam os restantes livros, pois vale a pena!
4.5 stars
So good! I felt completely immersed in this story, just wishing it wouldn't end.
I can't say too much about what pleased me so much without giving spoilers, so I'll just say I really enjoyed the way the author ended the narrative that had begun in the first book, connected to Blackthorn and Grim relationship, and I also liked the story of Cara and the Heartwood House.
For those, like me, who found the first volume of this trilogy a bit below the level that Juliet got us used to, I can only say you shouldn't give up and you should read the remaining books, because it's worth it!
November 21, 2024
3.5 - ⭐️⭐️⭐️💫
‘I’ll go on any path you want,’ Grim said. ‘Might give you a push sometimes, keep you walking straight. But whatever happens, I’ll be right there beside you. Rain or shine. Shadows or light. Step for step. Always.’
It hurts my heart to say good bye to Blackthorn and Grim but I'm happy that Marillier gave me the ending I hoped for.
Their bond is too precious.. What an incredible duo!
My only issue with the book has to do with the pacing becoming unsteady and slow midway through and some of the dialogue felt repetitive.
Keep in mind it was planned to be a 4-book series before the publisher made the decision to publish Den of Wolves as the final installment.
Thank you Marillier for this precious gift I hope I'll revisit them one day ❤️
‘I’ll go on any path you want,’ Grim said. ‘Might give you a push sometimes, keep you walking straight. But whatever happens, I’ll be right there beside you. Rain or shine. Shadows or light. Step for step. Always.’
It hurts my heart to say good bye to Blackthorn and Grim but I'm happy that Marillier gave me the ending I hoped for.
Their bond is too precious.. What an incredible duo!
My only issue with the book has to do with the pacing becoming unsteady and slow midway through and some of the dialogue felt repetitive.
Keep in mind it was planned to be a 4-book series before the publisher made the decision to publish Den of Wolves as the final installment.
Thank you Marillier for this precious gift I hope I'll revisit them one day ❤️
Read
February 5, 2016
I AM LOVING THAT COVER SO MUCH T_T
Me to Blackthorn and Grim:
I CANNOT WAIT FOR THIS BOOK.
August 30, 2018
This was a perfect ending to the Blackthorn and Grim tales and no less than I expected. There is a little bit of danger, a mystery to be solved and the slow retelling of some old story lost to the world once again. Blackthorn and Grim have come along way from their time together as prisoners. I really loved the slow build of their tale.
Grim I just love his character so much. He has the biggest kindest heart and he is the humblest of men. After the True Loves Tears of the prior book I was beyond excited to see where the relationship between Grim and Blackthorn might go and I wasn’t disappointed. It is a relationship perfect to them and the build of it is so fragile and innocent.
There is an old house that was never finished and after the man who was the master builder for it show up fifteen years later wondering lost and a bit wild in the woods a lord decides that Grim will be his hands to rebuild the house. That would be fine but the Wildman seems a little crazy, not really a problem for Grim as he has seen a crazy person through some tough times more than once even Blackthorn. As the Wildman’s tale comes to light though there might be more to the way the house is built and the original legend than of a heartwood house than people remember.
Cara is the daughter of the lord building the house and she is sent to court while it is built. As Cara gets closer to Blackthorn and Grim gets closer to the Wildman it seems that their paths overlap in a way that could cause some big heartbreak if it gets out.
I was so happy with the most of this book. Blackthorn is a bit prickly but with Grim she is becoming a kinder woman and I love how they treat each other. They are always there for the other in a way that is building something unbreakable between the two.
These are slower paced stories full of small details and little faery stories. I felt like this completed the series really well but I am hoping to see some of the characters again in Marillier’s next book.
Grim I just love his character so much. He has the biggest kindest heart and he is the humblest of men. After the True Loves Tears of the prior book I was beyond excited to see where the relationship between Grim and Blackthorn might go and I wasn’t disappointed. It is a relationship perfect to them and the build of it is so fragile and innocent.
There is an old house that was never finished and after the man who was the master builder for it show up fifteen years later wondering lost and a bit wild in the woods a lord decides that Grim will be his hands to rebuild the house. That would be fine but the Wildman seems a little crazy, not really a problem for Grim as he has seen a crazy person through some tough times more than once even Blackthorn. As the Wildman’s tale comes to light though there might be more to the way the house is built and the original legend than of a heartwood house than people remember.
Cara is the daughter of the lord building the house and she is sent to court while it is built. As Cara gets closer to Blackthorn and Grim gets closer to the Wildman it seems that their paths overlap in a way that could cause some big heartbreak if it gets out.
I was so happy with the most of this book. Blackthorn is a bit prickly but with Grim she is becoming a kinder woman and I love how they treat each other. They are always there for the other in a way that is building something unbreakable between the two.
Two paths lie before you. One is the path you always believed would be yours: a broad, straight way, a path of security and advantage, a path with few challenges or surprises. Safe, predictable, comfortable. The other is a path of many twists and turns, of darkness and light, of difficulty and reward, a path on which you would be forever learning.”
These are slower paced stories full of small details and little faery stories. I felt like this completed the series really well but I am hoping to see some of the characters again in Marillier’s next book.
February 10, 2017
".. even the bitterest, angriest, most wounded woman in all Erin could learn to love again."
Oh god, this series. This author. This story.
Coming back to this world, to these words, was like coming home. Marillier is unparalleled in her ability to weave Irish folktales and magic and fantasy like the very druids she sprinkles her stories with. And the tale of DEN OF WOLVES might have been the best in this series. However, it was, at it's heart, a story that was heartbreaking and tragic. It also had a pretty obvious mystery/thread to it. I think I had it all figured out by the hundred page mark (though there were a few other plot points unrelated to the main conflict that I didn't see coming). But that didn't, for one second, ruin my enjoyment. And the two additional POVs in this one might have been my favourite up until this point. I loved reading from their perspectives. And then, of course, there was Blackthorn and Grim themselves and.. I just.. wow. I'm so happy right now.
This was so beautifully wrapped up and I'm so thrilled that we got an ending that these characters deserved. I know Marillier has said she would write more in this world, for these characters, if she could but I'm glad that -- for now -- in the event this is the end of it all.. it was given a resolution that fits and honours them.
What makes this series so special is that we have older protagonists who are not special snowflakes. Who have endured horrible things. But instead of getting over it, moving on, instead of trying to forgive, the struggle is trying to live again. For yourself. For the ability to love again and be open to what life might put in your path.
Blackthorn is not often likeable. She is not easy. She burns hot with rage and the need for violent revenge. Grim carries his dark memories with him, is haunted, is careful and spare with his words, hiding much from most people. And yet they find themselves meeting in the middle, discovering who they are now that they've endured what they have, and.. not remaking themselves, but building upon the foundation of who they once were. It's so wonderful, and so different, and I can see why it might not be for everyone. But I think it's brave to offer us a story such as this. Of course, each installment has had it's own separate magic and mayhem and trials to be overcome, sometimes by the unlikely pair, but ultimately involving others who have stumbled into their lives, and that offers up it's own entertainment. But this series is named Blackthorn & Grim for a reason. They are the bruised and beat up heart & soul of this magical world.
And speaking of this world. I also loved how she tied this in with some of the events of her Sevenwaters trilogy. Not in a way that requires reading those books but just that.. if you have read them, you see some familiar elements and that made me pretty happy, too, to imagine those lives living on and leaving behind a legacy.
Aaall the feels.
Oh god, this series. This author. This story.
Coming back to this world, to these words, was like coming home. Marillier is unparalleled in her ability to weave Irish folktales and magic and fantasy like the very druids she sprinkles her stories with. And the tale of DEN OF WOLVES might have been the best in this series. However, it was, at it's heart, a story that was heartbreaking and tragic. It also had a pretty obvious mystery/thread to it. I think I had it all figured out by the hundred page mark (though there were a few other plot points unrelated to the main conflict that I didn't see coming). But that didn't, for one second, ruin my enjoyment. And the two additional POVs in this one might have been my favourite up until this point. I loved reading from their perspectives. And then, of course, there was Blackthorn and Grim themselves and.. I just.. wow. I'm so happy right now.
This was so beautifully wrapped up and I'm so thrilled that we got an ending that these characters deserved. I know Marillier has said she would write more in this world, for these characters, if she could but I'm glad that -- for now -- in the event this is the end of it all.. it was given a resolution that fits and honours them.
What makes this series so special is that we have older protagonists who are not special snowflakes. Who have endured horrible things. But instead of getting over it, moving on, instead of trying to forgive, the struggle is trying to live again. For yourself. For the ability to love again and be open to what life might put in your path.
Blackthorn is not often likeable. She is not easy. She burns hot with rage and the need for violent revenge. Grim carries his dark memories with him, is haunted, is careful and spare with his words, hiding much from most people. And yet they find themselves meeting in the middle, discovering who they are now that they've endured what they have, and.. not remaking themselves, but building upon the foundation of who they once were. It's so wonderful, and so different, and I can see why it might not be for everyone. But I think it's brave to offer us a story such as this. Of course, each installment has had it's own separate magic and mayhem and trials to be overcome, sometimes by the unlikely pair, but ultimately involving others who have stumbled into their lives, and that offers up it's own entertainment. But this series is named Blackthorn & Grim for a reason. They are the bruised and beat up heart & soul of this magical world.
And speaking of this world. I also loved how she tied this in with some of the events of her Sevenwaters trilogy. Not in a way that requires reading those books but just that.. if you have read them, you see some familiar elements and that made me pretty happy, too, to imagine those lives living on and leaving behind a legacy.
Aaall the feels.
October 11, 2016
Juliet Marillier is the Queen of beautifully written and unique Celtic fantasy tales and Den of Wolves the final in the Blackthorn and Grim trilogy again leaves no doubt of this. Although this instalment does take its time as it slowly unwinds the story of the secrets of the Heartwood House and the mysterious residents of Wolf Glen, it is the resolution of the relationship between fiery and damaged Blackthorn and her stalwart protector Grim where Marillier's writing shines. She again highlights that a character's actions and the beauty of the written word can be so powerful and romantic even without details of the physical side of the relationship.
Although a satisfying resolution to Blackthorn and Grim's adventures Marillier has left enough mystery in the ongoing lives of the fey Conmael and the mysterious men of the Island for me to hope we may see them again in another companion series.
4.5 stars
Although a satisfying resolution to Blackthorn and Grim's adventures Marillier has left enough mystery in the ongoing lives of the fey Conmael and the mysterious men of the Island for me to hope we may see them again in another companion series.
4.5 stars
January 21, 2020
Já todos sabem que adoro Juliet Marillier. Aliás, os mais atentos e os que seguem o blogue há mais tempo (daqui a quatro meses já faz nove aninhos) sabem que o Bran, do BranMorrighan, muito se deve ao seu livro O Filho das Sombras (o segundo da trilogia de Sevenwaters). Uma conjugação enorme de factores e simbologias levaram a que desse o nome que dei ao blogue, mas anterior a isso era a minha admiração pela escrita da autora. Confesso, depois da Trilogia de Sevenwaters (muito antes de ter passado a saga com seis livros), cada livro que li seu foi sempre numa expectativa meia ofegante. Quando temos um livro, ou uma série de livros, que nos marca profundamente, estamos sempre à espera que venha um próximo ou, quem sabe, um melhor ainda. Os livros de Blackthorn & Grim não tiveram em mim o mesmo impacto que os de Sevenwaters, mas uma coisa é certa, prenderam-me do início ao fim e encantaram-me de uma forma ímpar que já se tornou característica de Juliet Marillier.
O Covil dos Lobos vem fechar as histórias dos protagonistas Blackthorn e Grim, ou assim parece. Foram longas jornadas de aventuras, de corações apertados, alguns sorrisos no rosto, muito desespero, mas acima de tudo muita esperança. A arte de contar histórias de uma forma forte e aveludada ao mesmo tempo não é para todos, mas a escritora australiana já nos habituou à sua capacidade, literalmente, fantástica de nos conquistar com os os universos tão mágicos e as emoções tão reais que se fazem sentir ao longo de cada capítulo. Gostei muito de Blackthorn desde o primeiro livro, mas penso que concordarão comigo quando digo que o percurso de Grim também foi, todo ele, extraordinário. As personagens femininas de Juliet Marillier são sempre admiráveis e pontos de referência, mas as personagens masculinas que escolhe destacar têm sempre algo de diferente ao que estamos habituados e fazem com que o fascínio se instale. Existe sempre um equilíbrio muito bonito entre o feminino e o masculino nas suas obras. Aqui, em especial, estamos perante dois parceiros que, ao contrário de séries anteriores da autora, têm um peso adicional. A sua faixa etária e tudo o que passaram/tiveram, atribui-lhes uma maturidade e uma noção do que o que lhes rodeia um pouco mais real, mais dura. Não se descobre que a vida pode ser dura, partimos do princípio que existe um nível de maldade acima do imaginável e o caminho agora é em direcção a algum apaziguamento.
De forma semelhante ao que aconteceu nos dois livros anteriores, para além destes nosso dois protagonistas tão queridos, conhecemos outros protagonistas paralelos, Cara e Bardán, que estão envoltos num mistério indecifrável, mas também ele cheio de sofrimento e de amor. As histórias dos quatro acabam por se entrelaçar num grande puzzle. O puzzle não foi difícil de resolver e penso que muitos leitores chegarão às conclusões certas muito antes de elas serem dadas como certas, mas nem isso tira a vontade de continuar a ler. Pelo contrário, ficamos na ânsia de confirmar as nossas expectativas.
Antes de me despedir não posso não deambular um pouco pelas emoções que esta trilogia, mas especialmente este livro, me fez sentir. Blackthorn é uma fonte de inspiração para qualquer mulher. Viu a sua família ser assassinada, foi violada, agredida e humilhada, ficou cega de vingança, arriscou-se mil vezes, mas finalmente, também graças a Grim, voltou a ter um vislumbre de alguma paz e de uma possibilidade de um futuro minimamente feliz. E depois tivemos Grim, sempre descrito de forma a o imaginarmos quase como um pequeno gigante desajeitado, enquanto só me dava vontade de o abraçar constantemente. Também ele tem um passado duro, também ele foi acorrentado e maltratado, humilhado ao ponto de não mais conseguir voltar a dormir uma noite que fosse, até partilhar a pequena cabana na Floresta dos Sonhos, com Blackthorn. A forma como se foram complementando, como cresceram juntos ao longo destes três livros e como por fim conseguem encontrar alguma rendição deixou-me de lágrima no olho. Todas as histórias paralelas também estiveram carregadas de emoções fortes, enigmas sobrenaturais, um combate constante entre o dever e o querer. Gostei particularmente deste Bardán, o homem selvagem. Senti uma empatia imediata com ele. Fico a torcer para que as suas vidas (Bardán e Cara) tenham o desfecho que merecem.
Não sei porquê, tinha a ideia de que iam ser sete livros, talvez por causa da maldição dos sete anos, e não apenas três. Não sei se a autora vai voltar a escrever sobre este universo, mas se voltar é mais do que bem-vindo. Confesso que achei o fim um pouco apressado, todo o desfecho com o vilão algo limpinho demais, mas foi o que foi. É sempre bom poder sair deste universo durante uns dias, são sempre viagens maravilhosas.
O Covil dos Lobos vem fechar as histórias dos protagonistas Blackthorn e Grim, ou assim parece. Foram longas jornadas de aventuras, de corações apertados, alguns sorrisos no rosto, muito desespero, mas acima de tudo muita esperança. A arte de contar histórias de uma forma forte e aveludada ao mesmo tempo não é para todos, mas a escritora australiana já nos habituou à sua capacidade, literalmente, fantástica de nos conquistar com os os universos tão mágicos e as emoções tão reais que se fazem sentir ao longo de cada capítulo. Gostei muito de Blackthorn desde o primeiro livro, mas penso que concordarão comigo quando digo que o percurso de Grim também foi, todo ele, extraordinário. As personagens femininas de Juliet Marillier são sempre admiráveis e pontos de referência, mas as personagens masculinas que escolhe destacar têm sempre algo de diferente ao que estamos habituados e fazem com que o fascínio se instale. Existe sempre um equilíbrio muito bonito entre o feminino e o masculino nas suas obras. Aqui, em especial, estamos perante dois parceiros que, ao contrário de séries anteriores da autora, têm um peso adicional. A sua faixa etária e tudo o que passaram/tiveram, atribui-lhes uma maturidade e uma noção do que o que lhes rodeia um pouco mais real, mais dura. Não se descobre que a vida pode ser dura, partimos do princípio que existe um nível de maldade acima do imaginável e o caminho agora é em direcção a algum apaziguamento.
De forma semelhante ao que aconteceu nos dois livros anteriores, para além destes nosso dois protagonistas tão queridos, conhecemos outros protagonistas paralelos, Cara e Bardán, que estão envoltos num mistério indecifrável, mas também ele cheio de sofrimento e de amor. As histórias dos quatro acabam por se entrelaçar num grande puzzle. O puzzle não foi difícil de resolver e penso que muitos leitores chegarão às conclusões certas muito antes de elas serem dadas como certas, mas nem isso tira a vontade de continuar a ler. Pelo contrário, ficamos na ânsia de confirmar as nossas expectativas.
Antes de me despedir não posso não deambular um pouco pelas emoções que esta trilogia, mas especialmente este livro, me fez sentir. Blackthorn é uma fonte de inspiração para qualquer mulher. Viu a sua família ser assassinada, foi violada, agredida e humilhada, ficou cega de vingança, arriscou-se mil vezes, mas finalmente, também graças a Grim, voltou a ter um vislumbre de alguma paz e de uma possibilidade de um futuro minimamente feliz. E depois tivemos Grim, sempre descrito de forma a o imaginarmos quase como um pequeno gigante desajeitado, enquanto só me dava vontade de o abraçar constantemente. Também ele tem um passado duro, também ele foi acorrentado e maltratado, humilhado ao ponto de não mais conseguir voltar a dormir uma noite que fosse, até partilhar a pequena cabana na Floresta dos Sonhos, com Blackthorn. A forma como se foram complementando, como cresceram juntos ao longo destes três livros e como por fim conseguem encontrar alguma rendição deixou-me de lágrima no olho. Todas as histórias paralelas também estiveram carregadas de emoções fortes, enigmas sobrenaturais, um combate constante entre o dever e o querer. Gostei particularmente deste Bardán, o homem selvagem. Senti uma empatia imediata com ele. Fico a torcer para que as suas vidas (Bardán e Cara) tenham o desfecho que merecem.
Não sei porquê, tinha a ideia de que iam ser sete livros, talvez por causa da maldição dos sete anos, e não apenas três. Não sei se a autora vai voltar a escrever sobre este universo, mas se voltar é mais do que bem-vindo. Confesso que achei o fim um pouco apressado, todo o desfecho com o vilão algo limpinho demais, mas foi o que foi. É sempre bom poder sair deste universo durante uns dias, são sempre viagens maravilhosas.
April 27, 2018
Healer Blackthorn knows all too well the rules of her bond to the fey: seek no vengeance, help any who ask, do only good. But after the recent ordeal she and her companion, Grim, have suffered, she knows she cannot let go of her quest to bring justice to the man who ruined her life.
Despite her personal struggles, Blackthorn agrees to help the princess of Dalriada in taking care of a troubled young girl who has recently been brought to court, while Grim is sent to the girl’s home at Wolf Glen to aid her wealthy father with a strange task—repairing a broken-down house deep in the woods. It doesn’t take Grim long to realize that everything in Wolf Glen is not as it seems—the place is full of perilous secrets and deadly lies...
Back at Winterfalls, the evil touch of Blackthorn’s sworn enemy reopens old wounds and fuels her long-simmering passion for justice. With danger on two fronts, Blackthorn and Grim are faced with a heartbreaking choice—to stand once again by each other’s side or to fight their battles alone...
Den of Wolves is the conclusion to the Blackthorn and Grim trilogy. Even though it was predictable, I think this book was my favorite of the three. I especially enjoyed the way the relationship between Blackthorn and Grim turned out. It was sweet with a slow build up and it remained an integral part of the story without taking over the whole story.
Finally we get answers about who Conmael is and why he saved Blackthorn from the prison, and also closure for Blackthorn with the whole Mathuin thing. I wasn't really sure why everything had to be so hush hush, but it was a good ending to that part of the story. Blackthorn was far less obsessed with getting justice in this book and was more focused on helping other people, which I think was good. It was what I wanted to see in the last book. The message about love and sacrifice in this book, and what and who is most important in life is one that I never get tired of and I enjoyed it immensely.
Feather bright and feather fine, None shall harm this child of mine...
The story of Cara and her father who is building a heartwood house for some mysterious reason was interesting, although I didn't really feel like we got a very good explanation for why her father was building the house in the first place or how he even learned about it. And then there was the wild man who returns after disappearing 15 years ago. It wasn't hard to figure out the connection between these characters, but the story was heartbreaking yet enchanting at the same time, and I loved it.
Overall this was a really good trilogy. Marillier continues to be one of my favorite authors simply because of the beautiful way that she writes. It also doesn't hurt that I really enjoy the historical fantasy genre that she writes so well.
Review also posted at Writings of a Reader
Despite her personal struggles, Blackthorn agrees to help the princess of Dalriada in taking care of a troubled young girl who has recently been brought to court, while Grim is sent to the girl’s home at Wolf Glen to aid her wealthy father with a strange task—repairing a broken-down house deep in the woods. It doesn’t take Grim long to realize that everything in Wolf Glen is not as it seems—the place is full of perilous secrets and deadly lies...
Back at Winterfalls, the evil touch of Blackthorn’s sworn enemy reopens old wounds and fuels her long-simmering passion for justice. With danger on two fronts, Blackthorn and Grim are faced with a heartbreaking choice—to stand once again by each other’s side or to fight their battles alone...
Den of Wolves is the conclusion to the Blackthorn and Grim trilogy. Even though it was predictable, I think this book was my favorite of the three. I especially enjoyed the way the relationship between Blackthorn and Grim turned out. It was sweet with a slow build up and it remained an integral part of the story without taking over the whole story.
Finally we get answers about who Conmael is and why he saved Blackthorn from the prison, and also closure for Blackthorn with the whole Mathuin thing. I wasn't really sure why everything had to be so hush hush, but it was a good ending to that part of the story. Blackthorn was far less obsessed with getting justice in this book and was more focused on helping other people, which I think was good. It was what I wanted to see in the last book. The message about love and sacrifice in this book, and what and who is most important in life is one that I never get tired of and I enjoyed it immensely.
Feather bright and feather fine, None shall harm this child of mine...
The story of Cara and her father who is building a heartwood house for some mysterious reason was interesting, although I didn't really feel like we got a very good explanation for why her father was building the house in the first place or how he even learned about it. And then there was the wild man who returns after disappearing 15 years ago. It wasn't hard to figure out the connection between these characters, but the story was heartbreaking yet enchanting at the same time, and I loved it.
Overall this was a really good trilogy. Marillier continues to be one of my favorite authors simply because of the beautiful way that she writes. It also doesn't hurt that I really enjoy the historical fantasy genre that she writes so well.
Review also posted at Writings of a Reader
November 7, 2016
Juliet Marillier at her best! My heart is happy.
July 29, 2019
Maravilhoso! 💚 Não sei se consigo já escrever algo que faça justiça a este livro, mas posso dizer uma coisa: adorei cada página, na sua história de esperança, procura pela justiça, emoções tão humanas que nos esquecemos que aqui e ali há uma pitada (de que eu gosto) de magia/fantasia, capacidade das personagens de se erguerem e enfrentarem o que está à sua frente regidas pelos valores humanos mais nobres (mesmo quando outras personagens as confrontam com situações em que há a ausência de valores humanos), personagens tão bem delineadas psicologicamente... E tanto mais podia ser dito! São páginas repletas de sabedoria. É de acrescentar a perfeição e eficácia da escrita de Juliet Marillier, que nos faz sentir tudo o que há para sentir na história que nos conta, e a beleza da sua prosa (são, aliás, características da autora).
Sinto a alma muito feliz por ter lido este livro!
Obrigada, Juliet, por este e pelos restantes livros maravilhosos!
Sinto a alma muito feliz por ter lido este livro!
Obrigada, Juliet, por este e pelos restantes livros maravilhosos!
November 14, 2016
After being missing for 15 years, Bardán stumbles back into Wolf Glen, searching for his lost treasure. But after being trapped in the land of Faerie he is both filthy and deranged and has no memory of the thing he lost, only that he is there for revenge.
All those years ago the overlord at Wolf Glen, Tóla had contracted Bardán to build him a Heartwood House, a magical Fae house that will bestow good luck upon the owner, but since his disappearance the house has fallen into ruin. Desperate for the good fortune he demands that Bardán finish what he began, but the years with the Fae has left him with crippled hands. Tóla employs Grim to be Bardán's hands.
When Grim arrives at Wolf Glen he finds Bardán being mistreated by the overlord. He agrees to work on the Heartwood House thinking that while he is there he can protect Bardán. But being separated from Blackthorn is taking it's toll on both of them.
For her part, Blackthorn finds herself looking after Tóla's young daughter who has been sent to Winterfalls to keep her safe from Badán. But both Grim and Blackthorn find themselves tugging at the threads of a secret so dark that people will kill to protect it.
Well, that was just great! It's quite possibly the best of the series and a fitting place to end. There aren't any surprises but Juliet Marillier is a master of her milieu and this book hums along nicely all the way up to it's ending. Lovers of fantasy, you couldn't do much better than Blackthorn and Grim.
All those years ago the overlord at Wolf Glen, Tóla had contracted Bardán to build him a Heartwood House, a magical Fae house that will bestow good luck upon the owner, but since his disappearance the house has fallen into ruin. Desperate for the good fortune he demands that Bardán finish what he began, but the years with the Fae has left him with crippled hands. Tóla employs Grim to be Bardán's hands.
When Grim arrives at Wolf Glen he finds Bardán being mistreated by the overlord. He agrees to work on the Heartwood House thinking that while he is there he can protect Bardán. But being separated from Blackthorn is taking it's toll on both of them.
For her part, Blackthorn finds herself looking after Tóla's young daughter who has been sent to Winterfalls to keep her safe from Badán. But both Grim and Blackthorn find themselves tugging at the threads of a secret so dark that people will kill to protect it.
Well, that was just great! It's quite possibly the best of the series and a fitting place to end. There aren't any surprises but Juliet Marillier is a master of her milieu and this book hums along nicely all the way up to it's ending. Lovers of fantasy, you couldn't do much better than Blackthorn and Grim.
March 8, 2017
The final book in Juliet Marillier’s latest magical historical trilogy, Den of Wolves wraps up the story of Blackthorn and Grim beautifully. It draws together the familiar narrative strands of Blackthorn’s quest for justice and her fear of drawing too close to anyone with the situation of a young woman who does not seem to fit into her world. Blackthorn is a wise woman who has suffered terribly in the past, and Grim is her huge but gentle sidekick who worships the ground she walks on. Their story began with Dreamer’s Pool and Tower of Thorns, which you must read first, and, as always with Juliet Marillier, is a wonderful mix of history, romance, and fairy-tale-like enchantment. I’ve really loved this series, and am sad that there will not be any more stories about the damaged healer and her taciturn giant of a companion. I’m only comforted by the knowledge that Juliet Marillier is working on a new project. I can only hope we are not kept waiting too long!
February 7, 2017
I have absolutely loved Juliet Marillier's Blackthorn and Grim series, it really has got better with every book and as much as I'm sad that we've reached the end the last instalment Den of Wolves was everything I could have hoped for.
This story is a little different to the previous two because Blackthorn and Grim spend a lot of their time apart from each other. Grim has agreed to take on a difficult building job and it means working a lot of long hours and coming home late at night and exhausted. While Grim is busy at Wolf Glen Blackthorn is helping to take care of a scared young girl who has been sent to court by her father to learn how to be a lady. As you might expect from this series there is a lot more to the story than that, Blackthorn and Grim are both uniquely qualified to solve the mystery surrounding Wolf Glen and the heartwood house but it's not going to be an easy task.
I don't really want to talk about that side of the plot though, instead I'm going to focus on the main characters and how much I've loved seeing them grow throughout the series. Blackthorn is still a prickly and stubborn woman, she's suffered too much and it's left her very defensive and wary of letting people in but we've watched as she slowly started to enjoy practising her craft as a healer again and she's definitely come a long way since the first book. I remember in the beginning that she thought of Grim as nothing but a nuisance but we've seen first hand how her feelings have started to change and in this book that old adage absence makes the heart grow fonder really comes into play. It's only when Blackthorn is left to cope without Grim being around that she realises how much she has come to rely on and care for him.
On Grim's part we've known he was in love with her for a long time now but he's finally brave enough to lay his cards on the table and risk their friendship in the hope of gaining something much more special. Blackthorn definitely has some difficult choices to face in this book. She needs to decide if she's brave enough to open her heart again in spite of the risks that entails and she also has a chance to finally get her revenge on Mathuin but it may cost her more than she is willing to pay.
I have to admit that I was expecting more books in this series and I'm still hoping the author may decide to revisit these characters again in the future but I thought she did a brilliant job of tying all the loose ends together so we're not left with unanswered questions. I love both of these characters and I've enjoyed every minute of their story so it's been sad to say goodbye to them but I'm glad the series has reached a fitting end. This is a series I know I'll be rereading again in the future but in the meantime I'm going to start working my way through Juliet Marillier's backlist.
Source: Received from publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review
This story is a little different to the previous two because Blackthorn and Grim spend a lot of their time apart from each other. Grim has agreed to take on a difficult building job and it means working a lot of long hours and coming home late at night and exhausted. While Grim is busy at Wolf Glen Blackthorn is helping to take care of a scared young girl who has been sent to court by her father to learn how to be a lady. As you might expect from this series there is a lot more to the story than that, Blackthorn and Grim are both uniquely qualified to solve the mystery surrounding Wolf Glen and the heartwood house but it's not going to be an easy task.
I don't really want to talk about that side of the plot though, instead I'm going to focus on the main characters and how much I've loved seeing them grow throughout the series. Blackthorn is still a prickly and stubborn woman, she's suffered too much and it's left her very defensive and wary of letting people in but we've watched as she slowly started to enjoy practising her craft as a healer again and she's definitely come a long way since the first book. I remember in the beginning that she thought of Grim as nothing but a nuisance but we've seen first hand how her feelings have started to change and in this book that old adage absence makes the heart grow fonder really comes into play. It's only when Blackthorn is left to cope without Grim being around that she realises how much she has come to rely on and care for him.
On Grim's part we've known he was in love with her for a long time now but he's finally brave enough to lay his cards on the table and risk their friendship in the hope of gaining something much more special. Blackthorn definitely has some difficult choices to face in this book. She needs to decide if she's brave enough to open her heart again in spite of the risks that entails and she also has a chance to finally get her revenge on Mathuin but it may cost her more than she is willing to pay.
I have to admit that I was expecting more books in this series and I'm still hoping the author may decide to revisit these characters again in the future but I thought she did a brilliant job of tying all the loose ends together so we're not left with unanswered questions. I love both of these characters and I've enjoyed every minute of their story so it's been sad to say goodbye to them but I'm glad the series has reached a fitting end. This is a series I know I'll be rereading again in the future but in the meantime I'm going to start working my way through Juliet Marillier's backlist.
Source: Received from publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review
January 14, 2021
[9.46/10]
This is the most tender romance I have ever read in fantasy and there were so many soft, gentle moments that evoked an audible response in the form of a silly wee squeak, the likes of which I have never uttered in my life. I ran out of sticky tabs there were so many lovely moments... and I was only tabbing lovely moments.
The progression of this relationship from book 1 to book 3 has been one of my favourite things about this series. It's the kind of slow burn that I think would appeal to people who love period dramas, because there's so much yearning and tension that even the barest graze of a hand has the same kind of emotional catharsis as a declaration of love. There is an opposites attract element but also a really well developed friends-to-lovers element. In fact the friendship is so strong there were times were I was also really concerned about what a romance would do to their friendship. This is a common theme in friends-to-lovers stories, but it was the first time I had really worried about that for fictional characters.
One of the interesting things about the way that all three of these books are written has been the mystery element of each book. Marillier writes the mysteries in a way that you pretty much know the key twist from really early on in the book because she's essentially delivering a fairy tale/folklore retelling so the plot beats are the kind of beats that have been ingrained into our psyches from childhood. However, she always keeps a little thing back that puts a little spin on the twist by the time you get to the ending. It's usually done in this really quiet and subtle way and there's something about it that really, really works for me.
This series has been an absolute joy to read from start to finish. I loved the focus on how to healthily manage mental health and how the plot really called for so much open discussion about mental health. It's been an especially important read to me at this specific time and I'm so thankful for the comfort and insight I got from Blackthorn & Grim.
This is the most tender romance I have ever read in fantasy and there were so many soft, gentle moments that evoked an audible response in the form of a silly wee squeak, the likes of which I have never uttered in my life. I ran out of sticky tabs there were so many lovely moments... and I was only tabbing lovely moments.
The progression of this relationship from book 1 to book 3 has been one of my favourite things about this series. It's the kind of slow burn that I think would appeal to people who love period dramas, because there's so much yearning and tension that even the barest graze of a hand has the same kind of emotional catharsis as a declaration of love. There is an opposites attract element but also a really well developed friends-to-lovers element. In fact the friendship is so strong there were times were I was also really concerned about what a romance would do to their friendship. This is a common theme in friends-to-lovers stories, but it was the first time I had really worried about that for fictional characters.
One of the interesting things about the way that all three of these books are written has been the mystery element of each book. Marillier writes the mysteries in a way that you pretty much know the key twist from really early on in the book because she's essentially delivering a fairy tale/folklore retelling so the plot beats are the kind of beats that have been ingrained into our psyches from childhood. However, she always keeps a little thing back that puts a little spin on the twist by the time you get to the ending. It's usually done in this really quiet and subtle way and there's something about it that really, really works for me.
This series has been an absolute joy to read from start to finish. I loved the focus on how to healthily manage mental health and how the plot really called for so much open discussion about mental health. It's been an especially important read to me at this specific time and I'm so thankful for the comfort and insight I got from Blackthorn & Grim.
August 4, 2018
As estrelas denunciam o prazer desta leitura!
E lá vou eu repetir-me…
Para mim ler Juliet é como gostar de algodão doce ou do cheiro da relva recentemente cortada ou do ar a maresia ou do eterno encanto de um pôr do sol.
Apraz-me o formato, o fio condutor, as pontas soltas intrigantes. Sinto o meu coração leve, sinto-me transportada pela mão para a “Terra do Nunca”.
Fico irremediavelmente presa às personagens carismáticas e parece-me sempre que poderia haver mais e mais histórias sobre elas. A imaginação da Juliet é prodigiosa e continua a deslumbrar-nos com enredos deliciosos.
"Quem é esta mulher?
De cabelo cor de fogo
Olhos sábios como os de uma coruja
Mãos fortes como as de um guerreiro
Delicadas como as de uma mãe
Toda ela é guerra por fora
E honrada por dentro
Segue o seu rumo
O seu nome é Blackthorn.
Quem é este homem?
Força nas mãos
Verdade nos olhos
Amor no coração
Honra no seu espírito
O nome dele é Grim."
E lá vou eu repetir-me…
Para mim ler Juliet é como gostar de algodão doce ou do cheiro da relva recentemente cortada ou do ar a maresia ou do eterno encanto de um pôr do sol.
Apraz-me o formato, o fio condutor, as pontas soltas intrigantes. Sinto o meu coração leve, sinto-me transportada pela mão para a “Terra do Nunca”.
Fico irremediavelmente presa às personagens carismáticas e parece-me sempre que poderia haver mais e mais histórias sobre elas. A imaginação da Juliet é prodigiosa e continua a deslumbrar-nos com enredos deliciosos.
"Quem é esta mulher?
De cabelo cor de fogo
Olhos sábios como os de uma coruja
Mãos fortes como as de um guerreiro
Delicadas como as de uma mãe
Toda ela é guerra por fora
E honrada por dentro
Segue o seu rumo
O seu nome é Blackthorn.
Quem é este homem?
Força nas mãos
Verdade nos olhos
Amor no coração
Honra no seu espírito
O nome dele é Grim."
September 13, 2016
Lovely and addicting as the first two! Pretty sure there will be more too, which I hadn't been expecting but really really want.
April 23, 2022
La farò breve perché penso ne abbiate le 🅱️alle piene.
Anche questo ultimo libro della trilogia mi ha catturata completamente. L’atmosfera è magica, il mistero viene svelato poco a poco, e ovviamente ho adorato i personaggi e la chiusura del loro percorso.
Non è una trilogia che consiglierei a tutti. Quella della Marillier è una scrittura descrittiva, che si prende il suo tempo.
Si parla di argomenti forti come il disturbo da stress post traumatico, si parla di vittime di violenza, di come è difficile fare sentire la propria voce o anche avere il coraggio di tirarla fuori, questa voce.
Nonostante queste tematiche crude, si parla anche e soprattutto di crescita, di rinascita e di speranza. È una trilogia che vi lascerà il cuore pieno pieno ♥️
Se volete saperne di più potete leggere le mie recensioni degli altri due libri della serie, Dreamer’s Pool e Tower of Thorns. Per adesso la smetto di scrivere, perché 1) avrei solo complimenti; 2) questi complimenti li ho già scritti e riscritti in quelle recensioni; 3) ho già sfracassato la vita a tutta Italia con questa trilogia.
Sicuramente questi sono finiti dritti dritti tra i miei libri preferiti in assoluto. Non vedo l’ora di leggere tutti gli altri libri della Marillier (ma anche se volesse scrivere dei sequel per Blackthorn e Grim non sarei contraria 🔪😊)
Anche questo ultimo libro della trilogia mi ha catturata completamente. L’atmosfera è magica, il mistero viene svelato poco a poco, e ovviamente ho adorato i personaggi e la chiusura del loro percorso.
Non è una trilogia che consiglierei a tutti. Quella della Marillier è una scrittura descrittiva, che si prende il suo tempo.
Si parla di argomenti forti come il disturbo da stress post traumatico, si parla di vittime di violenza, di come è difficile fare sentire la propria voce o anche avere il coraggio di tirarla fuori, questa voce.
Nonostante queste tematiche crude, si parla anche e soprattutto di crescita, di rinascita e di speranza. È una trilogia che vi lascerà il cuore pieno pieno ♥️
Se volete saperne di più potete leggere le mie recensioni degli altri due libri della serie, Dreamer’s Pool e Tower of Thorns. Per adesso la smetto di scrivere, perché 1) avrei solo complimenti; 2) questi complimenti li ho già scritti e riscritti in quelle recensioni; 3) ho già sfracassato la vita a tutta Italia con questa trilogia.
Sicuramente questi sono finiti dritti dritti tra i miei libri preferiti in assoluto. Non vedo l’ora di leggere tutti gli altri libri della Marillier (ma anche se volesse scrivere dei sequel per Blackthorn e Grim non sarei contraria 🔪😊)
February 7, 2017
Juliet Marillier better keep writing books forever because I literally will never get enough of her stories. Each book feels like it was written especially for my tastes. Den of Wolves and the entire Blackthorn and Grim series is no exception. Such a satisfying ending to the trilogy. I love love love these characters and how they've grown together. Beautifully written and imagined. Something I will be forever aspiring to.
August 3, 2017
Mais uma história fantástica, cheia de acção, uma boa dose de mistério, magia, amizade, lealdade e finalmente, justiça.
Esperava um fim mais emocionante, com mais revelações ou quiçá uma promessa de continuação.
Pode ser que a autora não fique por aqui e continue a dar mais aventuras a esta dupla fantástica, e quem sabe até lhes dê a oportunidade de expandirem a família.
"Quem é esta mulher?
De cabelo cor de fogo
Olhos sábios como os de uma coruja
Mãos fortes como as de um guerreiro
Delicadas como as de uma mãe,
Toda ela é guerra por fora
E bondade por dentro
Segue o seu rumo
O seu nome é Blackthorn"
"Quem é este homem?
Força nas mãos
Verdade nos olhos
Amor no coração
Honra no seu espírito
O nome dele é Grim"
Esperava um fim mais emocionante, com mais revelações ou quiçá uma promessa de continuação.
Pode ser que a autora não fique por aqui e continue a dar mais aventuras a esta dupla fantástica, e quem sabe até lhes dê a oportunidade de expandirem a família.
"Quem é esta mulher?
De cabelo cor de fogo
Olhos sábios como os de uma coruja
Mãos fortes como as de um guerreiro
Delicadas como as de uma mãe,
Toda ela é guerra por fora
E bondade por dentro
Segue o seu rumo
O seu nome é Blackthorn"
"Quem é este homem?
Força nas mãos
Verdade nos olhos
Amor no coração
Honra no seu espírito
O nome dele é Grim"
October 26, 2016
I'll do a real review closer to release date, but I think this finale is the best of the Blackthorn & Grim series for a number of reasons. No spoilers, just general feelings:
- the two extra POV characters in this one were far more likable than in the previous books. Throughout this series my main issue has been that the POV's outside Blackthorn or Grim were merely ones I tolerated, but in this I enjoyed Cara and Bardan.
-the steady character development of both Blackthorn and Grim that has been the best part of the series continues here until the end.
-good resolution/clarity to Blackthorns association with both Mathuin and Conmael.
-best of all, an appearance from a new generation of Swan Island warriors! While their names are not mentioned, I love seeing what a positive and enduring legacy Bran and the others have left
All in all I loved this and feel it wrapped up everything perfectly, while still leaving open the option for future stories with some of these characters. I read an interview with Marillier last winter where she said she had ideas for more books in this series if she gets the approval from her publisher. I'd love this and even think taking a generational approach like she did with Sevenwaters would work well. We'll see. Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read this early.
- the two extra POV characters in this one were far more likable than in the previous books. Throughout this series my main issue has been that the POV's outside Blackthorn or Grim were merely ones I tolerated, but in this I enjoyed Cara and Bardan.
-the steady character development of both Blackthorn and Grim that has been the best part of the series continues here until the end.
-good resolution/clarity to Blackthorns association with both Mathuin and Conmael.
-best of all, an appearance from a new generation of Swan Island warriors! While their names are not mentioned, I love seeing what a positive and enduring legacy Bran and the others have left
All in all I loved this and feel it wrapped up everything perfectly, while still leaving open the option for future stories with some of these characters. I read an interview with Marillier last winter where she said she had ideas for more books in this series if she gets the approval from her publisher. I'd love this and even think taking a generational approach like she did with Sevenwaters would work well. We'll see. Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read this early.
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