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Skylark #3
Lark Ascending
The thrilling conclusion to The Skylark Trilogy: Revolution is brewing in the city within the Wall. The city stands divided, and war is imminent. The rebels need a leader. After months beyond the Wall, Lark returns with Owen by her side, prepared to overthrow the Institute once and for all. But Lark's triumphant homecoming is short-lived when another leader emerges to unite the rebels: Eve, a mysterious Renewable. Lark wonders if Eve's powers will bring them strengthor bring humanity's final downfall.
332 pages, ebook
First published October 9, 2014
16 people are currently reading
3449 people want to read
About the author
Meagan Spooner
18 books3,450 followersNew York Times bestselling author Meagan Spooner grew up reading and writing every spare moment of the day, while dreaming about life as an archaeologist, a marine biologist, an astronaut. She graduated from Hamilton College in New York with a degree in playwriting, and has spent several years since then living in Australia. She's traveled with her family all over the world to places like Egypt, South Africa, the Arctic, Greece, Antarctica, and the Galapagos, and there's a bit of every trip in every story she writes.
She currently lives and writes in Asheville, North Carolina, but the siren call of travel is hard to resist, and there's no telling how long she'll stay there. She's the author of the award-winning Starbound trilogy (These Broken Stars, This Shattered World, Their Fractured Light) and the Skylark Trilogy (Skylark, Shadowlark, Lark Ascending) as well as the upcoming Beauty and the Beast retelling Hunted.
In her spare time she plays guitar, plays video games, plays with her cat, and reads.
She currently lives and writes in Asheville, North Carolina, but the siren call of travel is hard to resist, and there's no telling how long she'll stay there. She's the author of the award-winning Starbound trilogy (These Broken Stars, This Shattered World, Their Fractured Light) and the Skylark Trilogy (Skylark, Shadowlark, Lark Ascending) as well as the upcoming Beauty and the Beast retelling Hunted.
In her spare time she plays guitar, plays video games, plays with her cat, and reads.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 99 reviews
October 15, 2014
2.5 stars - Spoilers
Liked it more than the first two books, it wasn't anything great though, it was just a very average sort of dystopian book.
-The plot wasn't particularly exciting, it was the the usual run-of-the-mill YA dystopia with teens battling the people in power.
-Lark was mostly bland, she was generic in her thoughts and actions, there was nothing that stood out about her. Like every YA heroine, she acted like an insufferable martyr and as if everything was her responsibility. Her constantly sacrificing herself didn't make her more endearing or likeable, all it did was make her annoying. The only thing I really liked about her was her relationship with Eve and Nix, she was at her best when she was conversing with them.
-I didn't really like Oren, he wasn't really there for Lark and didn't seem to care about her as much in this one. As soon as Eve came into the picture he forget about Lark and seemed more into Eve and what she could do for him. He never even bothered to listen to Lark's opinion or took on board her feelings, he seemed far more loyal and protective of her in the first two books. In this one he was way too uncaring, secretive and reckless.
-Lark and Oren's relationship was rubbish, they started off quite sweet together but as soon as Eve came on the scene they turned crap. They already had loads of trust and communication issues in the first two books so I expected some growth in this one. Instead Oren was dismissive of Lark and got all stupid over Eve, and Lark kept chasing after him whilst he acted like a boring emo. After everything they'd been through I wanted them to have a more mature and honest relationship instead of the same old non-stop angst and communication problems. By the end, I really wanted Lark to just dump Oren, he clearly didn't trust her or respect her opinions.
-Hated Caeser, he was a selfish prat. In the first book he turned in his own sister to the evil Institute/bad guys yet in this one he was acting like some sort of honourable-tortured-rebellious hero. The only reason he rebelled against the Institute was because they turned on him, he didn't do it for Lark or anyone else. It was so irritating how he was acting so hard done by and as if he was a victim, he should have been grovelling for forgiveness not acting like some kind of stoic saint.
-Loved the mechanical pixie, Nix. Eve was great too especially when she got all crazy and vengeful.
-Lark had such rubbish parents, they really didn't give a fuck about her. I wanted an epilogue with them dying horribly.
Dorian was a douche too, it pissed me off that he was alive and happy after all he'd done to Eve.
-What happened to Tamren? Did he survive? Did he even make it to Lethe?
-What a prick Caeser was, as soon as Eve stopped being useful to him, he forgot about her and left her to her own devices. If he had really loved her, he would have helped search for her or at least given Lark a message or something to take to her. But nope, she was no longer powerful or important so she didn't matter to him any more. Ugh.
-I wasn't impressed with the ending, Lark risked her life and saved everyone yet she was hated by all. Also, it was frustrating how she felt like she had to redeem herself when she hadn't done anything wrong. If it wasn't for her everyone would have died or at the very least the war would have still been going on. She set people free, stopped the war and gave them new hope. Yet she still ended up with nothing and was thought to be a bad guy, her own parents hated her. The male characters (Caeser, Kris, Basil) on the other hand were seen as leaders and saviours even though all of them had done unforgivable things in the past and weren't as instrumental in saving everyone. Ugh, why couldn't Lark be seen as a saviour instead of being despised? Why couldn't she get the credit she was due? Why couldn't she play a leadership role? Why didn't Caeser and co as leaders tell the people who the real hero was? They would have believed them if they had actually bothered to explain what was what more than once. Instead the heroine had to be punished and driven out of her own home whilst the male characters were rewarded. Ugh.
I'm glad the trilogy is over, it never really managed to entertain me much, partly because dystopia no longer appeals to me as much as it used to. YA dystopia lovers would probably enjoy this though.
Liked it more than the first two books, it wasn't anything great though, it was just a very average sort of dystopian book.
-The plot wasn't particularly exciting, it was the the usual run-of-the-mill YA dystopia with teens battling the people in power.
-Lark was mostly bland, she was generic in her thoughts and actions, there was nothing that stood out about her. Like every YA heroine, she acted like an insufferable martyr and as if everything was her responsibility. Her constantly sacrificing herself didn't make her more endearing or likeable, all it did was make her annoying. The only thing I really liked about her was her relationship with Eve and Nix, she was at her best when she was conversing with them.
-I didn't really like Oren, he wasn't really there for Lark and didn't seem to care about her as much in this one. As soon as Eve came into the picture he forget about Lark and seemed more into Eve and what she could do for him. He never even bothered to listen to Lark's opinion or took on board her feelings, he seemed far more loyal and protective of her in the first two books. In this one he was way too uncaring, secretive and reckless.
-Lark and Oren's relationship was rubbish, they started off quite sweet together but as soon as Eve came on the scene they turned crap. They already had loads of trust and communication issues in the first two books so I expected some growth in this one. Instead Oren was dismissive of Lark and got all stupid over Eve, and Lark kept chasing after him whilst he acted like a boring emo. After everything they'd been through I wanted them to have a more mature and honest relationship instead of the same old non-stop angst and communication problems. By the end, I really wanted Lark to just dump Oren, he clearly didn't trust her or respect her opinions.
-Hated Caeser, he was a selfish prat. In the first book he turned in his own sister to the evil Institute/bad guys yet in this one he was acting like some sort of honourable-tortured-rebellious hero. The only reason he rebelled against the Institute was because they turned on him, he didn't do it for Lark or anyone else. It was so irritating how he was acting so hard done by and as if he was a victim, he should have been grovelling for forgiveness not acting like some kind of stoic saint.
-Loved the mechanical pixie, Nix. Eve was great too especially when she got all crazy and vengeful.
-Lark had such rubbish parents, they really didn't give a fuck about her. I wanted an epilogue with them dying horribly.
Dorian was a douche too, it pissed me off that he was alive and happy after all he'd done to Eve.
-What happened to Tamren? Did he survive? Did he even make it to Lethe?
-What a prick Caeser was, as soon as Eve stopped being useful to him, he forgot about her and left her to her own devices. If he had really loved her, he would have helped search for her or at least given Lark a message or something to take to her. But nope, she was no longer powerful or important so she didn't matter to him any more. Ugh.
-I wasn't impressed with the ending, Lark risked her life and saved everyone yet she was hated by all. Also, it was frustrating how she felt like she had to redeem herself when she hadn't done anything wrong. If it wasn't for her everyone would have died or at the very least the war would have still been going on. She set people free, stopped the war and gave them new hope. Yet she still ended up with nothing and was thought to be a bad guy, her own parents hated her. The male characters (Caeser, Kris, Basil) on the other hand were seen as leaders and saviours even though all of them had done unforgivable things in the past and weren't as instrumental in saving everyone. Ugh, why couldn't Lark be seen as a saviour instead of being despised? Why couldn't she get the credit she was due? Why couldn't she play a leadership role? Why didn't Caeser and co as leaders tell the people who the real hero was? They would have believed them if they had actually bothered to explain what was what more than once. Instead the heroine had to be punished and driven out of her own home whilst the male characters were rewarded. Ugh.
I'm glad the trilogy is over, it never really managed to entertain me much, partly because dystopia no longer appeals to me as much as it used to. YA dystopia lovers would probably enjoy this though.
September 14, 2014
***Review posted on The Eater of Books! blog***
Lark Ascending by Meagan Spooner
Book Three of the Skylark series
Publisher: Carolrhoda Books
Publication Date: October 1, 2014
Rating: 4 stars
Source: eARC from NetGalley
Summary (from Goodreads):
The thrilling conclusion to the Skylark Trilogy: Revolution is brewing in the city within the Wall. After months beyond the Wall, Lark returns with Owen by her side, prepared to overthrow the Institute once and for all. But Lark's triumphant homecoming is short-lived when another leader emerges to unite the rebels: Eve, a mysterious Renewable. Lark wonders if Eve's powers will bring them strength or bring humanity's final downfall.
What I Liked:
THIS. This was the book I needed from this series. I struggled a little with books one and two - I liked them, but I wasn't totally interested. In my review of Skylark, I mentioned that I liked the book overall, but was confused about things. In my review of Shadowlark, I was still confused about things, and wanted more from the sequel novel. While I totally do NOT remember most of what happened in books one or two (it's vague, just enough for me not to be hopelessly lost), I can say confidently that this book, Lark Ascending, made the most sense in the series. It sucks that we have to come this far to see this, But, I'm glad I stuck with this series!
Lark is going home - she is returning to her city, to see if what is wrong can be righted. She finds the rebels of the city (half of the city is controlled by rebels, the other half controlled by the Institute/architects), some familiar face, and a newcomer... a Renewable named Eve, who was a slave to the Institute not too long ago. Lark doesn't trust Eve completely, especially since everyone seems to be under her thrall. Eve is powerful - but will she help the rebels, or will take matters into her own hands?
Spooner attacks so many issues in this book, unlike the previous books. Maybe the previous books were setting up for this one. In any case, Spooner addresses many problems: Lark's light/dark powers, Oren's shadow side, Eve's enormous power as a Renewable, the Institute and its real goals, the truth behind the "apocalyptic" event in history that destroyed everything... so many truths are revealed in this book. It's incredible how everything seems to come together. FINALLY.
I understand Lark's abilities so much more. I understand the "shadow" side of Oren, and I really *get* Eve and her powers. Everything makes sense in this final novel, which is good, because I had soooo many questions after finishing book one and then finishing book two. My questions were answered, rest assured.
A word of caution (sort of): I remembered very little from book one to book two, and then book two to book three. Remember, I didn't LOVE the first two books, so after I finished them, they didn't really stick with me. But I found that it was really easy to get back into this world, despite not remembering much. This is always a good thing!
Lark definitely grew even more, in this novel. She had to take charge of several matters, even though someone else was handling the rebels and plans, even though she never really wanted to put herself or anyone in danger. I have to say, I do like Lark, and I get her.
The romance is a bit rocky in this book, but not in a bad way. It goes to show that Lark and Oren don't have it all figured out, they aren't super similar and perfect, and they go through obstacles like anyone else. In general, I'm very pleased with the romance. I was confused in the first book, but I ended up really liking the romance in this series.
I'm glad I kept reading! This series is certainly an interesting one. The world-building and intriguing concepts drew me in, but the poor structure of the first two books didn't really do the series any favors. The last book (this one) made me glad that I read the series!
What I Did Not Like:
I almost wish for a more bloody ending... I know that sounds weird, but I don't think anyone actually died. You know how usually a friend or mentor or several people who matter but aren't the protagonists die? I'm not going to say that the ending was perfect (it was NOT), but then, in terms of death and whatnot, no one died... just saying. That stuck out to me.
In general, the overall feel of meh that I got from books one and two stuck with me as I was reading this one, but it was less oppressive than it was in books one and two. That's a good sign.
Would I Recommend It:
If you've read Skylark, or Skylark and Shadowlark, definitely make a point to read this book. It's totally worth your while to read the conclusion to this unique series. However, if you haven't read either book, then ehhh, don't bother. I wouldn't have read this series if I hadn't won a copy of book one from the author. I was under no obligation to read/review the book, but I like to make sure that my giveaway winnings don't just stack up and collect dust, you know?
Rating:
4 stars. Definitely a fantastic ending to a series that needed a push. This book was that push. I'm glad I read these books! Now I can say I've read all five of Spooner's books/soon-to-be-published books (Skylark, Shadowlark, Lark Ascending, These Broken Stars, This Shattered World)!
Lark Ascending by Meagan Spooner
Book Three of the Skylark series
Publisher: Carolrhoda Books
Publication Date: October 1, 2014
Rating: 4 stars
Source: eARC from NetGalley
Summary (from Goodreads):
The thrilling conclusion to the Skylark Trilogy: Revolution is brewing in the city within the Wall. After months beyond the Wall, Lark returns with Owen by her side, prepared to overthrow the Institute once and for all. But Lark's triumphant homecoming is short-lived when another leader emerges to unite the rebels: Eve, a mysterious Renewable. Lark wonders if Eve's powers will bring them strength or bring humanity's final downfall.
What I Liked:
THIS. This was the book I needed from this series. I struggled a little with books one and two - I liked them, but I wasn't totally interested. In my review of Skylark, I mentioned that I liked the book overall, but was confused about things. In my review of Shadowlark, I was still confused about things, and wanted more from the sequel novel. While I totally do NOT remember most of what happened in books one or two (it's vague, just enough for me not to be hopelessly lost), I can say confidently that this book, Lark Ascending, made the most sense in the series. It sucks that we have to come this far to see this, But, I'm glad I stuck with this series!
Lark is going home - she is returning to her city, to see if what is wrong can be righted. She finds the rebels of the city (half of the city is controlled by rebels, the other half controlled by the Institute/architects), some familiar face, and a newcomer... a Renewable named Eve, who was a slave to the Institute not too long ago. Lark doesn't trust Eve completely, especially since everyone seems to be under her thrall. Eve is powerful - but will she help the rebels, or will take matters into her own hands?
Spooner attacks so many issues in this book, unlike the previous books. Maybe the previous books were setting up for this one. In any case, Spooner addresses many problems: Lark's light/dark powers, Oren's shadow side, Eve's enormous power as a Renewable, the Institute and its real goals, the truth behind the "apocalyptic" event in history that destroyed everything... so many truths are revealed in this book. It's incredible how everything seems to come together. FINALLY.
I understand Lark's abilities so much more. I understand the "shadow" side of Oren, and I really *get* Eve and her powers. Everything makes sense in this final novel, which is good, because I had soooo many questions after finishing book one and then finishing book two. My questions were answered, rest assured.
A word of caution (sort of): I remembered very little from book one to book two, and then book two to book three. Remember, I didn't LOVE the first two books, so after I finished them, they didn't really stick with me. But I found that it was really easy to get back into this world, despite not remembering much. This is always a good thing!
Lark definitely grew even more, in this novel. She had to take charge of several matters, even though someone else was handling the rebels and plans, even though she never really wanted to put herself or anyone in danger. I have to say, I do like Lark, and I get her.
The romance is a bit rocky in this book, but not in a bad way. It goes to show that Lark and Oren don't have it all figured out, they aren't super similar and perfect, and they go through obstacles like anyone else. In general, I'm very pleased with the romance. I was confused in the first book, but I ended up really liking the romance in this series.
I'm glad I kept reading! This series is certainly an interesting one. The world-building and intriguing concepts drew me in, but the poor structure of the first two books didn't really do the series any favors. The last book (this one) made me glad that I read the series!
What I Did Not Like:
I almost wish for a more bloody ending... I know that sounds weird, but I don't think anyone actually died. You know how usually a friend or mentor or several people who matter but aren't the protagonists die? I'm not going to say that the ending was perfect (it was NOT), but then, in terms of death and whatnot, no one died... just saying. That stuck out to me.
In general, the overall feel of meh that I got from books one and two stuck with me as I was reading this one, but it was less oppressive than it was in books one and two. That's a good sign.
Would I Recommend It:
If you've read Skylark, or Skylark and Shadowlark, definitely make a point to read this book. It's totally worth your while to read the conclusion to this unique series. However, if you haven't read either book, then ehhh, don't bother. I wouldn't have read this series if I hadn't won a copy of book one from the author. I was under no obligation to read/review the book, but I like to make sure that my giveaway winnings don't just stack up and collect dust, you know?
Rating:
4 stars. Definitely a fantastic ending to a series that needed a push. This book was that push. I'm glad I read these books! Now I can say I've read all five of Spooner's books/soon-to-be-published books (Skylark, Shadowlark, Lark Ascending, These Broken Stars, This Shattered World)!
December 20, 2013
You guys are going to LOVE this. Trust me. Everything you've been hoping for, all in one book.
September 14, 2020
2020
3 to 3.5 stars
The ending wasn't terrible. Or bad. It was okay. And mostly uplifting. I was a little sad about Nix, but that was basically the biggest loss. And everything else basically turned out right.
I thought that the book was more interesting (in the lead up to the ending) than the second book for sure. About a tie with the first book. My biggest issue was with the ending. Again, it wasn't terrible, but it wasn't as good as I was expecting. Lark has this littler hero complex thing going where she has to be the one to save the world. She can't let anyone else step in to help. Heaven forbid they even offer.
And then she tries to leave Oren. Again. Like she has many, many times before. You would think that if she didn't like him she'd just break up with him or something, instead of just trying to leave him behind. I mean, what is all that about? Although, to be fair, I guess Oren did kind of totally disappear in this book for a while. I mean, talk about mixed signals.
Some people didn't get any redemption arcs. Like Caesar. I was hoping he would end up having some redeeming qualities. And you would think that he would considering he was the leader of the rebellion and all. But he didn't have any good reason for doing that (like maybe guilt for turning his sister over) except that they turned on him. And then he was just a puppy to follow Eve around for the most part. Basil didn't get much redemption either.
And what was the point of sending Tamren out at all? Lark has him leave and then he's basically never mentioned again. We never find out his fate. I guess we just assume the world eats him up or something. It's a shame because I really liked the brief moments Tamren was there.
3 to 3.5 stars
The ending wasn't terrible. Or bad. It was okay. And mostly uplifting. I was a little sad about Nix, but that was basically the biggest loss. And everything else basically turned out right.
I thought that the book was more interesting (in the lead up to the ending) than the second book for sure. About a tie with the first book. My biggest issue was with the ending. Again, it wasn't terrible, but it wasn't as good as I was expecting. Lark has this littler hero complex thing going where she has to be the one to save the world. She can't let anyone else step in to help. Heaven forbid they even offer.
And then she tries to leave Oren. Again. Like she has many, many times before. You would think that if she didn't like him she'd just break up with him or something, instead of just trying to leave him behind. I mean, what is all that about? Although, to be fair, I guess Oren did kind of totally disappear in this book for a while. I mean, talk about mixed signals.
Some people didn't get any redemption arcs. Like Caesar. I was hoping he would end up having some redeeming qualities. And you would think that he would considering he was the leader of the rebellion and all. But he didn't have any good reason for doing that (like maybe guilt for turning his sister over) except that they turned on him. And then he was just a puppy to follow Eve around for the most part. Basil didn't get much redemption either.
And what was the point of sending Tamren out at all? Lark has him leave and then he's basically never mentioned again. We never find out his fate. I guess we just assume the world eats him up or something. It's a shame because I really liked the brief moments Tamren was there.
March 9, 2025
This is the third and final book for the "Skylark" trilogy and in some ways, it was my least favorite. While it did have a fast pace and lots of action, it was high 'teen' drama.....the kind that was extremely repetitive. It didn't provide the tension needed....just some eye rolling.
I get the need for the ending it had, but a lot the characters (especially the ones I liked) were just left dangling. For me, dystopian novels especially, need to give me a hint of what this new world looks like after all the hoop jumping....and I never felt that. Overall, I kind of liked this....so 3 stars.
I get the need for the ending it had, but a lot the characters (especially the ones I liked) were just left dangling. For me, dystopian novels especially, need to give me a hint of what this new world looks like after all the hoop jumping....and I never felt that. Overall, I kind of liked this....so 3 stars.
August 29, 2019
Moc pěkné zakončení série. Už jsem zapomněla, jak moc mám ráda svět z Ptačího světa a autorčin snový styl psaní. A Oren s Lark? OTP. Jeden z nejhezčích vztahů v YA, které jsem kdy viděla. A i když mě neuvěřitelně štvala Eve, všechny ostatní postavy jsem si užila. Meagan prostě můžu.
4/5*
4/5*
May 13, 2018
Lark must go home. To the city where she was tortured and betrayed, then forced to flee.
The city, itself, is more than the architects who betrayed her. And she is no longer alone. She has Nix, Oren, and Kris. OK, Kris was an architect; Nix is a machine; and Oren still has the shadow inside him.
But so does Lark. And she may always have it if she does not find a way to save her city. In fact, if she does not, then everyone in the city may become a shadow.
Far sooner than anyone cares to realize. War is here, and Lark is not the rebellion's appointed hero. That honor belongs to the woman who wants to see every single member of the city dead.
Lark Ascending is a worthy culmination of Meagan Spooner's dystopian Skylark trilogy. Nothing is easy in this series. And no one is all light or all shadow. All the main characters remained integral throughout the entire series, and they all remained true to this message.
The city, itself, is more than the architects who betrayed her. And she is no longer alone. She has Nix, Oren, and Kris. OK, Kris was an architect; Nix is a machine; and Oren still has the shadow inside him.
But so does Lark. And she may always have it if she does not find a way to save her city. In fact, if she does not, then everyone in the city may become a shadow.
Far sooner than anyone cares to realize. War is here, and Lark is not the rebellion's appointed hero. That honor belongs to the woman who wants to see every single member of the city dead.
Lark Ascending is a worthy culmination of Meagan Spooner's dystopian Skylark trilogy. Nothing is easy in this series. And no one is all light or all shadow. All the main characters remained integral throughout the entire series, and they all remained true to this message.
January 6, 2015
Read This Review & More Like It At Ageless Pages Reviews
I’d like to start by reminding our readers that my Skylark review was 5 stars and I named it my favorite book of 2012. My Shadowlark review was a bit more reluctant, but it was still a 4 star rating. This review does feature spoilers for previous books in the trilogy.
A popular review of the final Skylark book says,
"Trust me. Everything you've been hoping for, all in one book."
And that is completely true. Provided what you're hoping for is cliched writing, a new, unbeatable bad introduced two and a half books into a trilogy, even more jealousy, endless relationship drama, and interminable conversations about the shadows inside us. If what you were hoping for was wonder, world building, or that showdown between Lark and Gloriette? Perhaps you could go read book one again.
There is actually a scene where the main character and the villain face off on a catwalk over a bunch of evil science equipment. Has the book been optioned, because I feel like this was written just for the dramatic trailer shot of Shailene Woodley hanging from the scaffolding, feet shrouded in factory fog, while the music crescendos. Otherwise, there is zero reason to include something straight out of a 1980s action movie or a Silver Age comic book.
Beyond the cliched set pieces and writing, (two instances of the evil YA sentence, “I exhaled a breath I hadn’t realized I was holding”,) Lark has suddenly become an awful person, actually telling Oren that he can’t explore a cure for his shadow because, “It changes my life too, you know.” The whole subplot about them not being together because of their shadows was pretty much resolved in the last book, and yet it makes up the greatest part of this one.
For a story that’s supposed to be about a rebellion overthrowing the government and healing the magical rift in the land, it spends an awful lot of time: describing the hideous gruel the rebels eat; flashing back to the life of Eve, the renewable; talking, talking, and more talking about whose turn it is to risk their life. (Hint, Lark always thinks it’s Lark’s). I complained that Shadowlark was light on action, compared to Skylark, but this time around, there is 1 (one!) fight scene before the climax. I’m not asking for non-stop war, but I never felt the urgency of the rebellion. I was bored.
Gloriette is in two flashbacks and two current scenes. For a character that’s been built as the ultimate bad and head of the evil organization, that’s just not ok. Her resolution was bullshit. The climax was actually pretty exciting, aside from the set dressing, and I didn’t hate the resolution, though I did think they started building the light/dark equivalency too late in the book.
Unfortunately, I can’t recommend Lark Ascending. Where the first book had everything I love in YA fantasy, this book had everything I hate. The magic system has become muddled and ill defined. There are now three love triangles. Animal deaths, (sort of.) Jealousy and girl fighting. It’s unfortunate, but even if the series wasn’t over, it would be for me.
I’d like to start by reminding our readers that my Skylark review was 5 stars and I named it my favorite book of 2012. My Shadowlark review was a bit more reluctant, but it was still a 4 star rating. This review does feature spoilers for previous books in the trilogy.
A popular review of the final Skylark book says,
"Trust me. Everything you've been hoping for, all in one book."
And that is completely true. Provided what you're hoping for is cliched writing, a new, unbeatable bad introduced two and a half books into a trilogy, even more jealousy, endless relationship drama, and interminable conversations about the shadows inside us. If what you were hoping for was wonder, world building, or that showdown between Lark and Gloriette? Perhaps you could go read book one again.
There is actually a scene where the main character and the villain face off on a catwalk over a bunch of evil science equipment. Has the book been optioned, because I feel like this was written just for the dramatic trailer shot of Shailene Woodley hanging from the scaffolding, feet shrouded in factory fog, while the music crescendos. Otherwise, there is zero reason to include something straight out of a 1980s action movie or a Silver Age comic book.
Beyond the cliched set pieces and writing, (two instances of the evil YA sentence, “I exhaled a breath I hadn’t realized I was holding”,) Lark has suddenly become an awful person, actually telling Oren that he can’t explore a cure for his shadow because, “It changes my life too, you know.” The whole subplot about them not being together because of their shadows was pretty much resolved in the last book, and yet it makes up the greatest part of this one.
For a story that’s supposed to be about a rebellion overthrowing the government and healing the magical rift in the land, it spends an awful lot of time: describing the hideous gruel the rebels eat; flashing back to the life of Eve, the renewable; talking, talking, and more talking about whose turn it is to risk their life. (Hint, Lark always thinks it’s Lark’s). I complained that Shadowlark was light on action, compared to Skylark, but this time around, there is 1 (one!) fight scene before the climax. I’m not asking for non-stop war, but I never felt the urgency of the rebellion. I was bored.
Gloriette is in two flashbacks and two current scenes. For a character that’s been built as the ultimate bad and head of the evil organization, that’s just not ok. Her resolution was bullshit. The climax was actually pretty exciting, aside from the set dressing, and I didn’t hate the resolution, though I did think they started building the light/dark equivalency too late in the book.
Unfortunately, I can’t recommend Lark Ascending. Where the first book had everything I love in YA fantasy, this book had everything I hate. The magic system has become muddled and ill defined. There are now three love triangles. Animal deaths, (sort of.) Jealousy and girl fighting. It’s unfortunate, but even if the series wasn’t over, it would be for me.
May 8, 2014
This third book in the Skylark Trilogy is fantastic! It was so on target, delivering a wonderful third book in the trilogy! I have become so afraid of reading the final book in trilogies lately, having been disappointed on several occasions by authors who had a great first book, cliff-hanging second book and then a big let down in the third book, but this was not at all the case in Lark Ascending. If anything, the third book was the best of the three.I LOVED the characters right from the start. Oren was such an atypical romantic hero and Lark was the perfect reluctant but strong female heroine. I especially loved that while solving the problems encountered in her world, she also had to deal with the problems she faced in her relationships with her two brothers. I liked how the characters grew and changed over time. I liked Lark's relationship with Eve, Kris, her brothers and of course Oren. One of the things I really loved about the series, beyond the awesome combination of dystopia, fantasy and steampunk, was Lark and Oren and their relationship. Most YA books these days seem to focus on "love at first sight" and the ever-present love triangle with the heroine torn between two opposing loves. I really appreciated that Oren and Lark's feelings grow and change as they got to know, trust and depend upon each other. I loved their unending faith and trust in each other. I liked that Kris was "out there" as a option for Lark, but was never really ever considered an option by her. I also really liked that when Lark and Oren finally were able to consummate their love, the author conveyed that quite clearly but with respect. So many YA books today are steaming up the sex scenes and I liked that Oren and Lark's time was private, the way it would be in the real world. Plus, this makes the book appropriate for all audiences, including some of the younger aged kids that are reading YA books today. I was so pleased with the ending. I thought the ending was so positive, so conclusive, yet left open that world for the readers' imaginations to continue their story.
I will be recommending this trilogy to every teen and YA adult fan I know.
I will be recommending this trilogy to every teen and YA adult fan I know.
September 15, 2019
I think the only person more pleasantly surprised by this series is, well me. I am not kidding when I say that I found this series and conclusion satisfying. I'm not sure if it's because I was in the right mood for it or because the book is actually really well thought out and executed.
Lark Ascending went back to what I really liked about the first book and tweaked somethings that kind of deterred me from the second book to deliver what I would say to be a worthy end. Clark's character arc and really everyone's for that matter came full circle and played off really well. I believe going the route this book did paid off in the end. It was also really nice to see Meagan Spooner take risks and give the story and characters stakes in their choices. We are so used to seeing characters and stories setup a stake and then cop out and it was refreshing to see that not ALWAYS be the case here. I also, truly enjoyed the dynamic between Lark and Eve. It was well written and well delivered.
The Skylark Trilogy, although not perfect, was a fresh dystopian world that is beautifully written and captivating.
Skylark-4/5
Shadowlark-3/5
Lark Ascending-4/5
The Skylark Trilogy-11/15
Lark Ascending went back to what I really liked about the first book and tweaked somethings that kind of deterred me from the second book to deliver what I would say to be a worthy end. Clark's character arc and really everyone's for that matter came full circle and played off really well. I believe going the route this book did paid off in the end. It was also really nice to see Meagan Spooner take risks and give the story and characters stakes in their choices. We are so used to seeing characters and stories setup a stake and then cop out and it was refreshing to see that not ALWAYS be the case here. I also, truly enjoyed the dynamic between Lark and Eve. It was well written and well delivered.
The Skylark Trilogy, although not perfect, was a fresh dystopian world that is beautifully written and captivating.
Skylark-4/5
Shadowlark-3/5
Lark Ascending-4/5
The Skylark Trilogy-11/15
December 27, 2023
Imma be honest, I had hoped that the third would get the series out of the slump the second one had created and my wish had been answered!
4,5 Star
February 1, 2016
After a really strong start with Skylark and a pretty great follow-up in Shadowlark, I thought I knew what to expect with the conclusion to Spooner’s imaginative debut series. I was pretty thrilled when my request for Lark Ascending was granted on NetGalley, but as I finally got to sit down and start reading this book, I found my enthusiasm waning.
I’m not really sure what I was expecting from the final book in this trilogy, aside from the obvious goal that Lark had been heading toward from the very beginning. But I guess I was just hoping for more. The first half was extremely slow-paced (the first two books weren’t all that quick-paced either), and it felt like not much was really even happening. By the time I was 50% through and things were just starting to pick up, I was a little shocked.
This basically read like a pretty predictable rebel uprising, striking back at the corrupt government. I wanted a lot more of the imagination and wonder — the things that really made me fall in love with this series originally. I wanted more exploration of the relationships here, between Lark and her brothers, between Lark and Eve. I would have loved to see more development for Oren and Kris, and Caesar and Basil. It seemed like the only relationships that got attention time at all were Lark/Oren and Lark/Nix.
I don’t know why, but I just felt so disconnected from this whole book. It felt like somehow I was just skimming the surface of the story, watching it unfold through murky water, instead of actually getting to experience it with Lark and the others. I hope I’m alone in this feeling, though, because even so, this series has a special place in my heart (especially Nix). As a series conclusion, it just didn’t feel like enough for me, and I found myself wishing for at least a companion novella (or two) to round it all out.
I’m not really sure what I was expecting from the final book in this trilogy, aside from the obvious goal that Lark had been heading toward from the very beginning. But I guess I was just hoping for more. The first half was extremely slow-paced (the first two books weren’t all that quick-paced either), and it felt like not much was really even happening. By the time I was 50% through and things were just starting to pick up, I was a little shocked.
This basically read like a pretty predictable rebel uprising, striking back at the corrupt government. I wanted a lot more of the imagination and wonder — the things that really made me fall in love with this series originally. I wanted more exploration of the relationships here, between Lark and her brothers, between Lark and Eve. I would have loved to see more development for Oren and Kris, and Caesar and Basil. It seemed like the only relationships that got attention time at all were Lark/Oren and Lark/Nix.
I don’t know why, but I just felt so disconnected from this whole book. It felt like somehow I was just skimming the surface of the story, watching it unfold through murky water, instead of actually getting to experience it with Lark and the others. I hope I’m alone in this feeling, though, because even so, this series has a special place in my heart (especially Nix). As a series conclusion, it just didn’t feel like enough for me, and I found myself wishing for at least a companion novella (or two) to round it all out.
January 1, 2024
3.5 stars
Phew. I'm actually pretty disappointed. I mean, how can I compare this to the first volume? The first volume was so extraordinary in terms of setting and story. The third volume was just a repeat of the second volume, only it was a bit better. We were in a city again ... all the time. Honestly, why is the author wasting her talent? She's really good at describing the forest and nature in general as a setting. There's something extraordinary about her and it really enchanted me ... But city descriptions? She's not even that good at it, and I'm also not a fan of being in the same place all the time - especially when it's a city.
The protagonist Lark is also totally different from the first volume and I can't understand many of her decisions. In the first volume, I understood all her decisions and fully agreed with them. I don't know what has happened to the author that she no longer writes so well. In any case, I'm now quite put off reading another book by her.
Phew. I'm actually pretty disappointed. I mean, how can I compare this to the first volume? The first volume was so extraordinary in terms of setting and story. The third volume was just a repeat of the second volume, only it was a bit better. We were in a city again ... all the time. Honestly, why is the author wasting her talent? She's really good at describing the forest and nature in general as a setting. There's something extraordinary about her and it really enchanted me ... But city descriptions? She's not even that good at it, and I'm also not a fan of being in the same place all the time - especially when it's a city.
The protagonist Lark is also totally different from the first volume and I can't understand many of her decisions. In the first volume, I understood all her decisions and fully agreed with them. I don't know what has happened to the author that she no longer writes so well. In any case, I'm now quite put off reading another book by her.
May 23, 2020
I figured I would finish this series in one go. I liked this book better than book 2. I think I read it twice as fast. I liked the addition of Eve but I would've like to have seen her character more fleshed out. Also, I would've liked more of a look at the future for Lark. Overall, a good series but I don't recommend waiting 5 years between reading book 1 & 2 as I did.
January 6, 2021
YES! I FINISHED IT! I loved this trilogy so much! I would recommend it to anyone! I love Lark and Nix and Oren and just everyone! I love how it’s not just focused on romance but also family and friends! I did find a few typos but oh well. Definitely a good read!!
May 28, 2017
Amazing! I think I lost some details while reading this story in English instead of my home language, but what I understood was stunning. Great ending of this trilogy.
September 4, 2020
Not my favorite. She was poised to enact great change (from how the second book ended), but there was very little action in this book, mostly dithering and stumbling around and accidentally figuring out the fix. I was disappointed in the ending: how accidental it all was, and where Lark ended up, even though her theme throughout was finding a place to belong.
August 15, 2016
Yayy! Another book series that I can mark as completed. I've probably started who knows how many series this year, but being able to complete one is always a good thing.
This series as a whole is just average for me. There is something really unique and interesting about it, but at the same time, it still leaves me scratching my head. I don't think the world is explained in a way that I understand it. I still have a lot of questions about how it ended, how it began, how its population even lives. I'm just still very confused on that whole thing.
It has a unique blend of magic, post-apocalyptic, dystopian, and survival all going on within it. I wouldn't write this series off, I do think it's worth a read.
This last volume was pretty easy for me to jump into. I really didn't have any problems remembering who was who or immersing myself back in the world, which is good, because I read the second book probably a year ago.
The main girl Lark was just eeehh in this volume. She kind of put the role of savior on herself, and I don't know if I ever really believed she had the skills for that. It's like she really wanted to be leader, and when some people stood in her way of that, she started acting a little childish. She had that hero-complex thing going which sometimes annoys me.
My favorite character in this whole series is Oren. Oren is the best. He's such a complex character, battling his own demons, his own darkness, fighting for his humanity. Oren is my favorite part of this series. I also really do like the relationship he and Lark share. There is no insta-love, their relationship developed just like I wanted it too. If anything, read it for Oren.
As a series ender, I thought this was decent enough. I was kind of surprised that there wasn't more to the ending. It's not a happy ending, it's not a sad ending, it doesn't leave me wanting, but I thought there could have been a little more to it. I don't know. I thought it was alright.
I think Meagan Spooner is really good at writing about survival and developing a deep relationship. This series just needed a world that was better explained for me to really connect with it more.
BOOKCITEMENT LEVEL 3.2/5
June 6, 2014
**4.5 Stars**
I received a copy from NetGalley for an honest review.
I can't believe it is over. What a journey Lark has lead us through. New characters appeared and old ones came back.
Lark's journey to find out the truth becomes a fight for survival for not only her, but all the people around her as well - Renewable and human. As she struggles with the shadow within her, a new power comes to light - one that Lark seems to be alone in her distrust. Lark and Oren's relationship is tested - more than once.
Meagan Spooner is such a fantastic writer that I cannot fully put into words how I felt about this amazing book - and the series as a whole. The integration of magic into every aspect of life was done beautifully. The Lark trilogy characters are not only believable, but they draw an immediate connection to the reader that does not wax and wane (although you might change your opinion of them). I cannot wait to see what Meagan Spooner comes out with next.
I received a copy from NetGalley for an honest review.
I can't believe it is over. What a journey Lark has lead us through. New characters appeared and old ones came back.
Lark's journey to find out the truth becomes a fight for survival for not only her, but all the people around her as well - Renewable and human. As she struggles with the shadow within her, a new power comes to light - one that Lark seems to be alone in her distrust. Lark and Oren's relationship is tested - more than once.
Meagan Spooner is such a fantastic writer that I cannot fully put into words how I felt about this amazing book - and the series as a whole. The integration of magic into every aspect of life was done beautifully. The Lark trilogy characters are not only believable, but they draw an immediate connection to the reader that does not wax and wane (although you might change your opinion of them). I cannot wait to see what Meagan Spooner comes out with next.
October 19, 2014
**I received this book for free from Carolrhoda Lab via Edelweiss in exchange for an honest review. Thank you!! This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.**
*Genre* Young Adult, Dystopian
*Rating* 3-3.5
*My Thoughts*
Lark Ascending closes out the Skylark trilogy and leads our protagonist back to where it all began. Lark is going home. A home that has done nothing but treat her as a lab experiment, and gave her no other options but to run away into the so called wild. It is also the place where her brother Caesar betrayed her, and her parent's pretended that it's better off thinking she's dead, not unlike her brother Basil who disappeared 6 years ago.
*Full Review Posted @ Gizmos Reviews*
http://gizmosreviews.blogspot.com/201...
*Recvd 05/01/2014 via Edelweiss* Published: October 9th 2014 by Carolrhoda Lab
*Genre* Young Adult, Dystopian
*Rating* 3-3.5
*My Thoughts*
Lark Ascending closes out the Skylark trilogy and leads our protagonist back to where it all began. Lark is going home. A home that has done nothing but treat her as a lab experiment, and gave her no other options but to run away into the so called wild. It is also the place where her brother Caesar betrayed her, and her parent's pretended that it's better off thinking she's dead, not unlike her brother Basil who disappeared 6 years ago.
*Full Review Posted @ Gizmos Reviews*
http://gizmosreviews.blogspot.com/201...
*Recvd 05/01/2014 via Edelweiss* Published: October 9th 2014 by Carolrhoda Lab
May 7, 2025
You know, I really don't understand why does Lark keep on shooing Oren away, using the same old "you've found a home" excuse. It seems so nonsensical to me, like she's trying to shake him off but paint it like she means well. So odd. Like wouldn't it be natural to cling to the only person who really cares? And her tendency to keep running away without giving him a heads up is unreasonable as well. Why would the people willing to sacrifice her treat him any better? How would they make for a better "home"? I feel like she's so emotionally unstable. I also didn't like the part where Oren seemed to be manipulated by Eve as well - it seemed out of place, because he's portrayed as this smart, thoughtful character, and suddenly he gets swayed like that and leaves his girlfriend to fight murderous pixies without giving a single damn in the world, dismissing it as ,,I wouldn't be of help anyway." Like what? Like if that was meant to portray just how strong Eve's influence is, it wasn't conveyed well. It seems like all the people she's ever known are eager to use her and turn their backs on her as they please, no matter if she sacrifices a single life to save God knows how many, she can't possibly do anything right to please these little shits. I'm still bitter about the second book where she uses Nina to save over a dozen of Renewables including her friends, and they LOCK HER UP. Even that f...head Wesley! And the only person, Oren, who might act... interestingly illogical at times? Haha, well, she fends him off! Is there something I'm missing? The end of the book just seemed to me like she wanted to go respectfully fuck off as a war veteran and dissappear into the woods, without a clear destination. She's often ignoring the most obvious choices. Like I don't know if she perhaps suffers a victim complex that makes her think she'd be burdening the man who swore he would stay by her side, or if she simply wants to leave everything behind, the good and bad. But the second theory proves wrong because she's tried to leave her man behind at least 3 times throughout the series!
I also forgot to mention that Basil is painted as this hero in book one, and then, the real deal is absolutely uncharacteristic. Like I get that he's an antihero of sorts, but c'mon! He was described to be such a personality! I can barely distinguish him from Caesar at the end of the book. Like, the only difference is that one is more stupid than the other, has a leg injury and an obsession with an insane woman who wants to slaughter all living, excluding those of her kind. How sweet.
And where exactly are Lark's parents, thinking she's dead? Like won't she go look for them just because her brother who has a sandwich instead of his brain told her that they're happy not knowing what's up with their 16 year old daughter?
I also noticed a detail that my brain for some reason got fixated on - when she discovered Nix, her pixie, she stole a part from it that was supposed to work as a map and guide the pixie back to the institute to notify them of Lark's location. So I suppose that was meant to make her run farther, to locate the Iron Wood faster? Because she hid it in her pocket, and the pixie only followed her around because it wanted the part back, until it gained it's own consciousness of sorts. But where did she toss it? Feel like that could've been such an interesting detail. I think the author could've also done more with the paper birds from Basil.
And also - Tansy dying? Like aren't you going to grieve her Dorian? Why is everyone so oddly self-centered? And the fact that he had just left... not seeing her recover, after the grand fight... I suppose he couldn't care less if she stopped Eve or not, since he's a Renewable and the slaughter of "normals" wouldn't do him harm. And yet, Lark still seems to think that leaving a shadow boy with them is a wonderful, fruitful idea. Why is everyone in the book so retarded??
I think that the reason why she forces Oren to stay at random places is cause she wants to realize her dream of feeling accepted somewhere, having a place where she isn't getting hunted down. And since she cannot achieve that, she hopes her man could live a life like that. Well, wouldn't now be a RIGHT time for once to be "selfish" and have him tag along? It's not like he would be happy without her anyway, I hope, ha... Poor Lark. Now get a grip Lark!
,,You think you're alone - you think that's your punishment for all of this, for being the one to save mankind from itself."
I think the main point of the book is that mankind just isn't worth saving. Mankind won't ever be grateful for someone intelligent enough to have a decent plan to restore order. Mankind doesn't need your help. Mankind will eat away at it's own flesh, until there's nothing left. Mankind is doomed to fail, and those trying to turn it by 180° are masochists. The books are intensely depressing, and in that sense I kind of liked them. The story has certainly grown on me, with it's imperfections.
Epilogue confusion:
,,The ruined house up just beyond the dunes stands dark and empty, and full of ghosts. I slept there once and had such dreams... dreams of another life, of a wood of iron and a city of shadows, of a sister lost and love shattered."
So did she break up with her man? Why is she alone suddenly, they were going to find Eve together... Or is ,,loved shattered" meant to be Dorian and Eve, when he once loved her and then sent her off as a spy?
I suppose she ends up reuniting with her "sister" then. It’s so odd, because the only thing they have in common is the shared trauma. I don't know what to think!
I also forgot to mention that Basil is painted as this hero in book one, and then, the real deal is absolutely uncharacteristic. Like I get that he's an antihero of sorts, but c'mon! He was described to be such a personality! I can barely distinguish him from Caesar at the end of the book. Like, the only difference is that one is more stupid than the other, has a leg injury and an obsession with an insane woman who wants to slaughter all living, excluding those of her kind. How sweet.
And where exactly are Lark's parents, thinking she's dead? Like won't she go look for them just because her brother who has a sandwich instead of his brain told her that they're happy not knowing what's up with their 16 year old daughter?
I also noticed a detail that my brain for some reason got fixated on - when she discovered Nix, her pixie, she stole a part from it that was supposed to work as a map and guide the pixie back to the institute to notify them of Lark's location. So I suppose that was meant to make her run farther, to locate the Iron Wood faster? Because she hid it in her pocket, and the pixie only followed her around because it wanted the part back, until it gained it's own consciousness of sorts. But where did she toss it? Feel like that could've been such an interesting detail. I think the author could've also done more with the paper birds from Basil.
And also - Tansy dying? Like aren't you going to grieve her Dorian? Why is everyone so oddly self-centered? And the fact that he had just left... not seeing her recover, after the grand fight... I suppose he couldn't care less if she stopped Eve or not, since he's a Renewable and the slaughter of "normals" wouldn't do him harm. And yet, Lark still seems to think that leaving a shadow boy with them is a wonderful, fruitful idea. Why is everyone in the book so retarded??
I think that the reason why she forces Oren to stay at random places is cause she wants to realize her dream of feeling accepted somewhere, having a place where she isn't getting hunted down. And since she cannot achieve that, she hopes her man could live a life like that. Well, wouldn't now be a RIGHT time for once to be "selfish" and have him tag along? It's not like he would be happy without her anyway, I hope, ha... Poor Lark. Now get a grip Lark!
,,You think you're alone - you think that's your punishment for all of this, for being the one to save mankind from itself."
I think the main point of the book is that mankind just isn't worth saving. Mankind won't ever be grateful for someone intelligent enough to have a decent plan to restore order. Mankind doesn't need your help. Mankind will eat away at it's own flesh, until there's nothing left. Mankind is doomed to fail, and those trying to turn it by 180° are masochists. The books are intensely depressing, and in that sense I kind of liked them. The story has certainly grown on me, with it's imperfections.
Epilogue confusion:
,,The ruined house up just beyond the dunes stands dark and empty, and full of ghosts. I slept there once and had such dreams... dreams of another life, of a wood of iron and a city of shadows, of a sister lost and love shattered."
So did she break up with her man? Why is she alone suddenly, they were going to find Eve together... Or is ,,loved shattered" meant to be Dorian and Eve, when he once loved her and then sent her off as a spy?
I suppose she ends up reuniting with her "sister" then. It’s so odd, because the only thing they have in common is the shared trauma. I don't know what to think!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 16, 2014
Well, I've been waiting a goddamn time for this book.
The previous installments of the Shadowlark trilogy was mind-blowing and I can believe that this one will be as good or maybe even better.
I desperately hope there will be a movie adaptation of this book. That would make my world a better place.
The previous installments of the Shadowlark trilogy was mind-blowing and I can believe that this one will be as good or maybe even better.
I desperately hope there will be a movie adaptation of this book. That would make my world a better place.
Want to read
July 27, 2014THE TITLE IS TERRIBLE!!! IT SHOULD GO WITH THE OTHER TITLES!!! SKY-LARK, SHADOW-LARK, AND THIS ONE SHOULD BE S......-LARK. Does anyone have any title names that they think would be good? It should start with an "S" and end in lark. Spiritlark, Starlark, Sunlark, Stormlark, Spylark,......I'm cheesy. I know, but I enjoy series when their titles are SOMEHOW related.
September 21, 2020
I just - I have so many emotions, am a little overwhelmed. I love that we came full circle back to the Wall. That we are confronted with what exactly the Institute did to the Renewable they were using - to Eve - but that no one person was villanised for it. Not completely.
full review: http://www.foldedbetweenthepagesofboo...
full review: http://www.foldedbetweenthepagesofboo...
May 10, 2017
The conclusion to the series was just as I expected. Lark decides time and time again that she must leave Oren, the boy she loves, and sacrifice her life to save everyone.
Seriously, that's the whole story. Over and over again.
Seriously, that's the whole story. Over and over again.
January 16, 2015
The signs of reading a incredible series..... Your crying cause you have gone and read the final book and it's over. You won't be able to read about these amazing characters and world again. You feel like u need to dress in black today cause u r so depressed it's over.
Read
November 4, 2014When does it come out in the UK?
December 11, 2014
Really, really liked this series.
November 7, 2015
This is a lovely finish for this amazing trilogy!
September 20, 2019
Now this - this is a rarity.
A thrilling plot, relatable, lovable characters, tangible character development, heart stopping symbolism, and a romance that doesn't make you want to chuck the book across the room. Every moment of this trilogy was amazing; nowhere near something you'll regret reading.
Dystopians are hard to write, especially with as much originality as this. The main character, Lark, in this last book, returns to her home city in the hope of bearing the truth about her world and freeing everyone from the ignorance of their infamous wall. Instead, she finds something very different.
Not one character was two dimensional. Lark, Caesar, Kris, Eve, Nix, Dorian, Oren; everyone was incredibly realistic in flaw and emotion. Every one of them had a complete role in the story, and grew noticeably by the end. Lark's relationship with each of them seemed so natural, all while being tied in with the symbolism of her darkness.
And Oren? Couldn't be further from your stereotypical dystopia love interest. He was packed with originality, a perfect reflection of Lark's struggles with her darkness, and perfectly flawed on his own. Their relationship grew and ebbed so visibly, along with hitting some much needed bumps along the way. Again, far from something that'll make you want to bang your head against a table.
But the thing that had to have impressed me the most was the light/dark symbolism. Being something so stereotypical and common in all literature, there were times I was worried that it would resort to the cringe-worthy simplistic level. But it never did. It was so original and so well embedded, making Eve and Lark's relationship compelling and intriguing. It played so well in the story and plot, as well as affecting each of the characters in a very natural way.
Books - especially dystopias - like these are hard to come by. This was a super solid trilogy, that definitely didn't leave me cringing, rolling my eyes, or throwing it across the room. Bravo to Spooner for creating yet another scarily tangible world.
A thrilling plot, relatable, lovable characters, tangible character development, heart stopping symbolism, and a romance that doesn't make you want to chuck the book across the room. Every moment of this trilogy was amazing; nowhere near something you'll regret reading.
Dystopians are hard to write, especially with as much originality as this. The main character, Lark, in this last book, returns to her home city in the hope of bearing the truth about her world and freeing everyone from the ignorance of their infamous wall. Instead, she finds something very different.
Not one character was two dimensional. Lark, Caesar, Kris, Eve, Nix, Dorian, Oren; everyone was incredibly realistic in flaw and emotion. Every one of them had a complete role in the story, and grew noticeably by the end. Lark's relationship with each of them seemed so natural, all while being tied in with the symbolism of her darkness.
And Oren? Couldn't be further from your stereotypical dystopia love interest. He was packed with originality, a perfect reflection of Lark's struggles with her darkness, and perfectly flawed on his own. Their relationship grew and ebbed so visibly, along with hitting some much needed bumps along the way. Again, far from something that'll make you want to bang your head against a table.
But the thing that had to have impressed me the most was the light/dark symbolism. Being something so stereotypical and common in all literature, there were times I was worried that it would resort to the cringe-worthy simplistic level. But it never did. It was so original and so well embedded, making Eve and Lark's relationship compelling and intriguing. It played so well in the story and plot, as well as affecting each of the characters in a very natural way.
Books - especially dystopias - like these are hard to come by. This was a super solid trilogy, that definitely didn't leave me cringing, rolling my eyes, or throwing it across the room. Bravo to Spooner for creating yet another scarily tangible world.
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