Симфонія смертовбивчого трону

Mousai #3

by E.J. Mellow, Остап Гладкий (Translator)

У світі Аадилору сховане Королівство Злодіїв — край, де панують магія і розпуста. Там Мусаї, тріо смертоносних чарівниць, служать відлюдному Королю Злодіїв, караючи тамтешніх мешканців і водночас розважаючи їх.

Арабесса Басет — проводирка Мусаї. Вона керує їхніми могутніми дарами розважливо й непохитно, але водночас у ній палає бажання піти своїм особливим шляхом. Та на заваді цьому стають бурхливі стосунки із Зімрі Д’Енью, правою рукою батька Арабесси і чоловіком, якому з дитинства належить її серце. Коли несподіване запрошення поборотися за трон Короля Злодіїв затягує її у смертоносне змагання, Арабесса втрачає душевний спокій, збагнувши, що перед нею постав неможливий вибір: зректися своєї найбільшої любові чи свого найпалкішого поривання.

Але жертви завжди великі в Королівстві Злодіїв, тому що змагання за владу має свою ціну. І коли її майбутнє і майбутнє Зімрі зависає на волоску, Арабессі потрібно вирішити, чи готова вона заплатити її.

Вітаємо вас у світі Аадилору, де любов знаходять на краю прірви, а в найчарівніших симфоніях лунають смертоносні ноти. Чи хотіли б ви творити музику?

Genres: Fantasy, Romance, Romantasy, Audiobook, Fantasy Romance, Magic, Fiction

472 pages, Hardcover

First published February 14, 2023

About the author

E.J. Mellow is an award-winning and Amazon bestselling author of magical mayhem. Her work has been translated into multiple languages, appeared on Best Of lists such as Buzzfeed and Gizmodo and has reached #1 in multiple Amazon categories, as well as received medals from eLit Book Awards and Next Generation Indie Book Awards. Readers have said her "lyrical, vibrant, and imaginative" writing sweeps them into "stunning worlds". E.J. is also the co-founder of She Is Booked, a literary themed fundraising organization that supports women’s charities.

Reviews

[jessica · Rating 5 out of 5]

i am obsessed with this book.

so much so that i want to go back and reread the entire series immediately. this is definitely the best book in the trilogy and i love that it was saved for last. its such a strong finish and a beyond satisfactory conclusion for the mousai sisters.

but the reasons why i enjoyed this more than the previous books is because of the characters. i related to arabessa the most of the three sisters. i understand perfectly the extra responsibilities and pressures that fall on the oldest sibling, so her sense of duty is something i could empathise with. i was rooting for her the entire way. i also found the romance suiting my preferences more. i am extremely weak for childhood friends/sweetheart stories. the connection between arabessa and zimri made me so happy.

so its no surprise this is my favourite book in the series. and this trilogy overall is perfect for readers looking for a nice, cosy fantasy story with strong females leads and exciting adventures. there is definitely enough time to pick up books #1 and #2 before this final installment comes out!

a massive thanks to montlake for the ARC!!

↠ 4.5 stars

[Deeksha Bhardwaj · Rating 5 out of 5]

“𝒀𝒐𝒖𝒓 𝒎𝒖𝒔𝒊𝒄 𝒊𝒔 𝒚𝒐𝒖𝒓 𝒍𝒂𝒏𝒈𝒖𝒂𝒈𝒆, 𝑨𝒓𝒂𝒃𝒆𝒔𝒔𝒂, 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝑰 𝒄𝒐𝒖𝒍𝒅 𝒍𝒊𝒔𝒕𝒆𝒏 𝒇𝒐𝒓 𝒆𝒕𝒆𝒓𝒏𝒊𝒕𝒚 𝒕𝒐 𝒚𝒐𝒖𝒓 𝒘𝒐𝒓𝒅𝒔.”🥹

𝑩𝒍𝒖𝒓𝒃
Symphony for a deadly throne follows Arabessa Bassette, the leader of the Mousai. Behind the roles she has been playing since childhood, lies a desire to forge her own path. And when an unexpected invitation sparks that flame, Arabessa must decide - give up her greatest love or her greatest ambition…

𝑹𝒆𝒂𝒅 𝒕𝒉𝒊𝒔 𝒊𝒇 𝒚𝒐𝒖 𝒍𝒊𝒌𝒆:
➤ Childhood Lovers, Slow-Burn Romance
➤ Strong FMC, Magical Powers
➤ Action Packed Moments
➤ Survival Settings
➤ Beautiful Family Relationship
➤ Intense Spicy Smut
➤ Amazing World-Building

𝑴𝒚 𝑻𝒉𝒐𝒖𝒈𝒉𝒕𝒔
To start with, I had the ARC for a while and was not picking it up coz I haven’t read the first books. And how sad I am to not have read this before coz this was amazing! What an incredible ending to the series😍👏🏼

With a fast-paced plot, this book was super eventful and engaging! From the get-go, the thrill and excitement were too much. Fully 𝗮𝗰𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻-𝗽𝗮𝗰𝗸𝗲𝗱, this book was a balance between using the powers and fighting without them🔥

The premise of Arabessa’s story was wonderful. Seeing her follow her ambitions she didn’t even know she had was awesome! And the way that concept was woven around, the complications that were added were just 🤌🏼🤌🏼 𝗶𝘁 𝘄𝗮𝘀 𝘀𝗼𝗼 𝘁𝗮𝗻𝗴𝗹𝗲𝗱 𝘁𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝗶𝘁 𝘄𝗮𝘀 𝗳𝗿𝘂𝘀𝘁𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝘆𝗲𝘁 𝗜 𝗹𝗼𝘃𝗲𝗱 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗰𝗵𝗮𝗼𝘀!!

Plus, being the eldest, to see her character development and how she finally followed her calling was beautiful. The fact that she didn't change herself but combined her strengths and weakness, and added new experiences to her personality was praiseworthy😍

And the ROMANCE!!!!! Omg! This was the best book out of the three in terms of romance.. the feelings were soo restricted yet flowed freely without any concern. The anguish and the complications were heartbreaking but there was this satisfaction that things will be okay.. I looved it! The way these two communicated, not giving up🥹

“𝒀𝒐𝒖 𝒈𝒊𝒗𝒆 𝒎𝒆 𝒎𝒐𝒓𝒆 𝒕𝒉𝒂𝒏 𝒘𝒉𝒂𝒕 𝑰 𝒘𝒂𝒏𝒕,” 𝒔𝒉𝒆 𝒔𝒂𝒊𝒅, 𝒈𝒂𝒛𝒆 𝒂 𝒃𝒍𝒖𝒆 𝒑𝒐𝒐𝒍 𝒐𝒇 𝒅𝒆𝒔𝒊𝒓𝒆. “𝒀𝒐𝒖 𝒈𝒊𝒗𝒆 𝒎𝒆 𝒘𝒉𝒂𝒕 𝑰 𝒅𝒊𝒅𝒏’𝒕 𝒆𝒗𝒆𝒏 𝒌𝒏𝒐𝒘 𝑰 𝒏𝒆𝒆𝒅𝒆𝒅.” “𝑾𝒉𝒊𝒄𝒉 𝒊𝒔 𝒘𝒉𝒂𝒕?” 𝒂𝒔𝒌𝒆𝒅 𝒁𝒊𝒎𝒓𝒊, 𝒔𝒕𝒊𝒍𝒍𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒇𝒐𝒓 𝒂 𝒎𝒐𝒎𝒆𝒏𝒕. “𝑻𝒉𝒆 𝒔𝒆𝒄𝒖𝒓𝒊𝒕𝒚 𝒕𝒐 𝒍𝒆𝒕 𝒈𝒐,” 𝒔𝒉𝒆 𝒂𝒏𝒔𝒘𝒆𝒓𝒆𝒅.

These two are my favourite couple because - (1) they were mature enough to communicate (but COULDN’T tho), and (2) the intense steamy moments they gave🫣 them joking about ‘spanking each other’ was everything, funny & sexyy! The chemistry and sexual energy between them from the start was “white-hot” intense🥵

The best part is, in the previous two books it was clear that these two had something going on but not clear how deep. And the kind of intensity this book gave was veryyy surprisingg!! I mean, I DID NOT EXPECT Zimri to be the Zimri he was in this book😉

But his sadistic tendencies were a bit too much and out of character tbh! He didn’t feel like someone who’ll hurt others because there’s chaos inside him or because he’s hurting👀

Moreover, THAT ENDING?🤯 It was 𝗳𝗮𝗻𝘁𝗮𝘀𝘁𝗶𝗰𝗮𝗹𝗹𝘆-𝗵𝗲𝗮𝗿𝘁𝗯𝗿𝗲𝗮𝗸𝗶𝗻𝗴𝗹𝘆-𝗶𝗻𝗰𝗿𝗲𝗱𝗶𝗯𝗹𝗲. The amount of sharp inhales I took while reading the last part of the plot were too much and too loved! The heartwarming end that this book gives is just delightful.. and I’ll forever hold this book in my heart!🫶🏼

𝑪𝒐𝒏𝒄𝒍𝒖𝒔𝒊𝒐𝒏
Overall, this is an incredible-wonderful fantasy fiction with a fast-paced plot and action-packed events, full of excitement and thrills. With intense intimate moments and bewitchingly heartwarming romance, and an equally gratifying ending, 𝘁𝗵𝗶𝘀 𝗯𝗼𝗼𝗸 𝗶𝘀 𝗮𝘀 𝗯𝗲𝗮𝘂𝘁𝗶𝗳𝘂𝗹 𝗮𝘀 𝗔𝗿𝗮𝗯𝗲𝘀𝘀𝗮’𝘀 𝗺𝘂𝘀𝗶𝗰🎶

P.S. I really need a book for Kattiva Volkov! I didn’t expect to warm up to her when she was introduced but she’s awesome😘

𝙏𝙝𝙖𝙣𝙠𝙨 𝙩𝙤 𝙉𝙚𝙩𝙂𝙖𝙡𝙡𝙚𝙮, 𝙈𝙤𝙣𝙩𝙡𝙖𝙠𝙚 𝙋𝙪𝙗. 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙖𝙪𝙩𝙝𝙤𝙧 𝙀. 𝙅. 𝙈𝙚𝙡𝙡𝙤𝙬 𝙛𝙤𝙧 𝙥𝙧𝙤𝙫𝙞𝙙𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙚-𝙘𝙤𝙥𝙮 𝙞𝙣 𝙚𝙭𝙘𝙝𝙖𝙣𝙜𝙚 𝙛𝙤𝙧 𝙖𝙣 𝙝𝙤𝙣𝙚𝙨𝙩 𝙧𝙚𝙫𝙞𝙚𝙬.

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[Rachel Rowell · Rating 5 out of 5]

”Though you might not believe me, I yearn to love you with everything that burns inside my heart instead of only what I can manage to hold in one hand.”

Happy release day!!!

What a beautiful and fitting conclusion to this massively underrated trilogy!

The Bassette sisters lead a life of many secrets and many faces - they act as mischievous thieves, refined ladies, and vengeful sorceresses by turns. The only constant in their lives is their devotion to each other, and to their beloved father Dolion Bassette - a man of many secrets himself.

But things are changing for Arabessa, Niya, and Larkyra. Their father has made a decision that will change their everyday lives forever...and Niya and Larkyra are already starting to pull away and build families of their own. All this leaves Arabessa, the eldest and leader of the trio, adrift and reevaluating her own choices.

For years, Arabessa’s childhood friend Zimri has made no secret of his feelings for her - but her sense of duty to the kingdom and to her family kept her from fully embracing a life with him. But now, an impossible choice forces Zimri to decide between marrying Arabessa, and achieving his lifelong goals. Will her self-sacrifice force him to choose wrong and keep them apart forever?

As an eldest sibling as well, it’s easy for me to relate to Arabessa’s character arc…especially as The Responsible One™️ in the family whom everyone else always leans on. She has to learn how to set boundaries for herself, while also relinquishing control and trusting those she loves to make their own decisions.

This trilogy is such a hidden gem - from the well-crafted worlds of Jabari and the Thief Kingdom, to the incredibly creative magic system, to the unique storylines for each sister that perfectly reflect their individual personalities and struggles. Many, many thanks to NetGalley, Montlake, and EJ Mellow for an ARC of this final volume in exchange for my honest thoughts!!

[✩ Yaz ✩ · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 - ⭐️⭐️⭐️💫

"I yearn to love you with everything that burns inside my heart."

It's such a bittersweet feeling to bid this trilogy farewell now that I have finished reading Symphony for A Deadly Throne, the last book in the Mousai Trilogy.

It is finally the eldest Basette sister's turn, Arabessa, to bring us on this journey with her at the Thief Kingdom alongside her childhood sweetheart Zimri.

I think Mellow crafted such a unique world that I wouldn't say no if she decided to write spin-offs taking place in the same world. I love that malevolent magic is prominent and has its own sentience. This is a debauched world and none of the character are wholly pure.

I felt so much for Arabessa in this book and how the burden of her duty took away her freedom and choices, considering she is the Eldest. She is the guardian, the protector, the shield, the guiding light of the Mousai.

You're probably wondering the reason behind giving this book a 3.5 rating and my reasoning is quite simple and it's not because I do not enjoy Mellow's writing or her characters but I'll list two reasons:

1. Zimri's character
2. Miscommunication trope

These can be exclusive only to me and it doesn't mean it could bother other readers as much, but I expected to love Zimri and I felt quite sympathetic towards his grief as he lost his parents as a child. He seemed sensible in the previous books but once I got to his POV he seemed anything but sensible. I wouldn't even say I dislike him because I did feel for him later on but I can't not criticize some of his actions and decisions.

I'm also not a big fan of the miscommunication trope. Just to put it simply.

I did enjoy diving deep into the Thief Kingdom and getting the chance to see more of it than in the previous books.

Mellow did a splendid job at crafting a story centered on sisterhood with a sprinkle of dark fantastical elements and weaved beautiful romances for each sister. Niya and Alōs remain my absolute favorite!!

I'll dearly miss them all and this world and I thank the author for gifting them to us and also gifting me with an eARC of this book in exchange for a review.

What to expect?

— Dark Fantasy Romance
— Childhood friends to lovers
— Second chance romance
— Hidden make-out sessions
— Dual POV
— Spice level: 2.5/5
— Magic + Mayhem
— Standalone

Release date: 14th February 2023

[Elena Rodríguez · Rating 4 out of 5]

“Born on a moonless night, the eldest of three,
Her hands hold the key to her power;
Music is her catalyst to control
To awaken magic set to devour "

No, tú estás llorando.


“He rules over a world too wild for the rest of Aadilor to appreciate”.

No quería hacer la reseña porque eso significaba cerrar la trilogía y cerrarla de una vez por todas. Además, me siento bastante culpable porque me lo he leído en tiempo récord, ¿mereció la pena?, sí, pero a qué precio. Siento que han cogido un pedacito de mi corazón y lo han estrujado.

“I want what will fulfill you with a life beyond regret”.

Como he dicho en otras reseñas, esta obra contener partes a mejorar, pero como también he dicho ese no es su punto fuerte, sino los personajes y el trasfondo que eclipsa todo lo demás. Esto no quiere decir que esté molesta por esas partes, pero eso es otra historia para otro día y no quiero fastidiar mi visión de esta trilogía aún. La tengo demasiado reciente.

“We are the king’s creation. We are a pet. We do what we are told”.

Esta trilogía me la he leído en inglés, no lo consideraría como lectura para adentrarte a este idioma, sino ya cuando estás mas cómoda con el inglés. Sobre todo, porque contiene elementos de fantasía y mundos fantásticos y descripciones detallada.

“Those who most deem ugly often carry beautiful souls, and those beautiful, foul ones. ”.
Ahora, en cuanto al argumento, no quiero decir mucho sin destripar. Lo único como dije antes es que me calentó el corazón y tiene mucha intensidad esta historia. Aunque, no creo que sea el mejor libro de los tres, ese puesto creo que esta reservado para el segundo.

¿La recomiendo? Absolutamente, ni dudo. Además, me la he comprado en físico y la voy a llenar de post-it y pienso releerla cuando sea el momento justo.

“When you listen to her symphony play”.

[Alexiani G · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 stars

I want to thank NetGalley again for this ARC, it was my first ever and seeing it for the first time made my heart burst in happiness and made me forget I had to check on the water and it kind of made a mess BUT it was worth it so, THANK YOU VERY MUCH!!!!! It made me the happiest person ever<3

Here it is the long waited book of Arabessa Bassette and Zimri D’enieu. Their story is PERFECT, PERFECT, PERFECT and PERFECT!! Did I say perfect? Because if not then, yes, it is perfect. One of the things that made them perfect was the way their relationship starts and develops. It was smart to have them get into a relationship the way they did, I really don’t want to make spoilers and that is the reason for the cryptic talking but yes, I loved their relationship. It was so sweet and it made butterflies flutter in my belly, their moments together, either talking, fighting or just being in each other’s company made me smile, everything happens in a page I get that but the chemistry between this two is undeniable.

“You, Arabessa are the most interesting creature I have yet met as well as the most contrary. It’s thoroughly enjoyable to watch you smile but know that you’re actually quite outraged. Or see you paste on an expression of indifference when nothing but the sweetest scent of joy lifts from you. You see”-he leaned forward conspiratorially-“you may not share your thoughts, but feel tem you certainly so, and loudly”

Now, moving forward. For those that have read Song of the forever Rains and Dance of a burning Sea, reading this book is going to be one of the most amazing closures for all of these characters. There is tragedy, love, loss, hope, secrets revealed, personal struggles a lot of them if I may add and battles won and lost. For those that haven’t read any previous book and this one calls to you then it’s okay as well because it is so well written that you can jump into it and have no problem understanding things. Of course, it is way better to know the endless jests between the sisters regarding Zimri but still, you can enjoy it. I loved that balance and it needs to be pointed out.
So, from the very beginning of the book there is mystery and secrets. One of the things I loved was the knowing of how long the secrets needed to stay secret from us the readers, meaning, they are not extented to the point of me saying “this is exhausting”. The writer hooked me from the very first chapters and didn’t let go until the very end. Another bonus point is that the book focuses on their characters, what do I mean by this? These two characters –Zimri and Arabessa- have a lot of duties, a lot of things to work out and the book has an excellent balance between their personal issues and their struggles as a couple because man, they HURT a lot in this book and I was hurting right there with them, so their individual problems never felt apart from the things they needed to work out together as well, the balance was great. Also, the book has this interesting scenes where whoever is narrating the chapter is describing debauchery –because we are talking about the Thief kingdom- and people having sexual encounters is kind of normal BUT the great thing about it is that it isn’t written to seduce or provoke, it is a fact, this kingdom is made to enclose this type of things and it’s as normal here as drinking water, so when a characters is describing thieving, torture, sex, murder or things like that, it is made in a way that makes us readers realize it is part of the world. It was really smart to be honest. don’t do any of these things at home or anywhere else

You have to be in control, Arabessa, he had said. It is not you in those moments. Not your feelings, not your wants. It is your people’s wants. Your kingdom’s feelings. You must make personal sacrifices every day. Every grain fall you wear a crown.

Another thing that I liked a lot about this book is that we now have the chance to get to know the Thief kingdom and its workings. In the other two books we have glimpses of it but they focus on the outside world but here? Here we get to visit a lot of places inside the kingdom and know how Dolion –the thief king- rules. I was angry at some point let me tell you because Dolion was making Arabessa do things that had me gritting my teeth BUT it also showed how he struggles with his role as king and the lack of balance the throne has when it comes to him ruling over his own daughters so I kind of felt bad for him as well.

“They are Bassettes, and Bassettes have greatness within even without the lost gods’ gifts”.
Zimri watched Niya and Larkyra slip from their seats to go to their father. They wrapped themselves around his large form. Dolion held them in return, not attempting to wipe free the tears escaping down his cheek.

This book focuses on Zimri and Arabessa’s relationship even though when they are facing a lot of internal and external struggles, it still has them –as a couple- in the spotlight. That makes the book so much simpler but not in a bad way. That fact made me eat the book whole, I had no problem understanding their fears, needs, dreams, desires or burdens because it is exactly what E.J Mellow focused on. This book doesn’t deal with a war or destruction, or houses fighting for power, let me tell you this kingdom has that in a grip, in control, so we don’t have to worry about that. What I worried about was Zimri and Arabessa’s hearts because they were SUFFERING. I loved Zimri here, I finally got to know more of him and there is not one single part of him I didn’t love, the same with Arabessa. As the writer, I’m a younger sister and reading about the obligations Arabessa has a big sister was and is a wow fro me. Their decisions –good or bad- let them to be in the right place at the right time at the end and I ENJOYED the ride, I mean, I was CRYING at the end and tears for characters are the best sign the book is great.

Also, the writing style E.J has here is marvelous. I LOVED the old type of talking and thinking, it doesn’t feel forced or awkward and of course it adds to the story because of how she describes these places are. Also, loved how the main characters are more than their magic, we have seen that in a lot of books but I loved she added that here. The sisters and every MC don’t just have their magic to defend themselves, they are trained to be smart, to fight with weapons, to outmatch their enemies no matter their size so reading how Arabessa was hella smart was the best.

There was only two things that bug me while reading –one more than the other- there was a lot of repeated sentences in this book, too many really. For some cases I understood the need to repeat some part of the book but in other was –in my opinion- not necessary and the other was the flashbacks. I was desperate to know what was going on when I had a sudden flashback, in some of them it was my desperation to know what was going on but some of them were right next to each other, they were more than okay but to close to one another.

So, of you haven’t read this trilogy you can start know and add them to your tbr, they are worth it, promise<3

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I'm sooooo happy that I got to be part of the group of people that received this ARC 🤍 this book was what I needed from these characters and world without even knowing it! Loved it! RTC!
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Update: 09-17-22
I HAVE AN ARC!!!!!!!!!!! I'M SCREAMING AND I DON'T CARE IF MY FAMILY GOES CRAZY!!!!! AHHHHHHHH!!!! Thank you SOOO very much to Netgalley for allowing me to have an ARC 🤍 Here I go with this book and my terrible but beautiful Arabessa😎
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Why are you SO FREAKING FAR AWAY???!!!!

[Terri · Rating 2 out of 5]

This was not my favorite in the trilogy. I really wanted to love it be Arabessa and Zimri were ways relegated to the sidelines in the other stories, forced to be the ones that were good little thief kingdom soldiers.

Sadly, that characterization continues throughout the book. Meaning: duty before everything even if the emotional conflict should have provided more. so much goes on just in their heads and it was so repetitive. I love you! But the kingdom. you love me?! But your lifelong dream of owning shares of a shady club. There was no stakes, no depths to explore, nothing in the Fade, no real action andi really got tired of her gifts talking to her.

There was SO much potential, particularly given the tidbit of info about their mom and it could have taken a Caraval approach or the Cyren Queen route for a quest but it didn't.

I loved the other two entries into the series and know some people will adore this one. I just wanted more. And if there is another talking about their father, life in Jabari and everything pre his reign as Their King I know I'll read it.

[Ana (Hiatus) · Rating 3 out of 5]

Thank you, NetGalley for the ARC of Symphony for a Deadly Throne in exchange for an honest review.

I honestly liked this book a lot better than the previous ones due to a variety of reasons.

The main reason is Arabessa. She is a much better protagonist in comparison to her sisters. She is fierce and brave. She is also very loving and loyal. Her hardships made a lot of sense. I also loved her relationship with her sisters.

Zimri was quite tedious. I think that my issue with him is that he didn't have much of a personality. He came across as immature and insensitive at times. Compared to Arabessa, he was quite bland. Because of that the romance felt very lacking.

It would have been better if this book showcased how they fell in love and the initial parts of their relationship.

I also did not like parts of the ending.

I think this was certainly the best book in the series

[Cypress · Rating 4 out of 5]

"Am I too late?”
“For what?”
“To be with you.”
“Oh, my love,” he said, hand coming up to cup her cheek. He wanted to pull her into his arms, kiss her, take in her hurt so she could have a reprieve. “You are never too late. You are all the pieces of my heart.”

 Characters: 4.5/5
Setting: 4.5/5
Writing: 4/5
Steam: 🔥🔥.5/5
Plot: 3.5/5
Overall: 4/5
 
First of all, thank you to NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for my honest review!

This book melted my heart. I am but a puddle on the floor.

Seriously, this book was so good. Not a five star as I was hoping, but still a phenomenal end to the series. Arabessa and Zimri are such a perfect match and after seeing them together throughout the entire series, I loved getting to finally see them as a real couple.

I had some issues with the pacing and plot of the novel. So far, the books in this series have had a good balance between romance and plot, but I felt this book lacked in that aspect. It was very romance heavy, which I normally don’t mind, but this didn’t make sense with the other books. There’s also a lot of important events happening outside the romance, and I felt like those didn’t get their chance to shine.

However, the romance in and of itself was incredible. I think Arabessa and Zimri are my favorite couple of the series. They have so much history and chemistry together, which made their relationship arc so incredibly satisfying.

As always, I loved all of the scenes with the sisters together. They are the core of these books. I thought that the way this book ended was perfect and it gave Larkyra, Niya, and Arabessa the freedom they had been missing.

I am so sad this series is over, but I know it ended in the best way possible. The Mousai Trilogy has everything you could ask for in a fantasy series: a gut wrenching plot, spellbinding romance, and a world you’ll want to get lost in forever. And, in less than 3 weeks, it will be a complete series!

[Jackie ♡ · Rating 2 out of 5]

I don’t know why I dislike these audiobooks so much. I enjoyed the first book when I read it as an ebook, but I finished the series in audiobook format and can’t stand it.

I liked the romance better in Symphony for a Deadly Throne than in the second book. However, what I disliked more was the plot.

So, there are these trials that decide who is fit to become king. Arabessa is going head-to-head against the others chosen by the throne. Cool, right? Wrong. In each trial Arabessa is by herself. We are told second-hand how many contenders are left after each round but we don’t actually see any of that. She’ll just be doing her thing and out of nowhere have to fight a monster. A missed opportunity with the premise.

I hate the thesis of this book.

“I want what will fulfill you with a life beyond regret.”

That’s the line that her father writes to her about her choice to become the Thief King. I didn’t like it the first time he said it, and I most certainly didn’t like it the next seven times. It’s supposed to sound wise but it sounds like the kind of verbose, pretentious shit I would’ve written when I was thirteen thinking it sounded deep.

Her sister said it in a way that makes more sense: “I want Arabessa to have no regrets.” That’s the way a normal person would say it.

Anyways, I don’t think I would dislike it as much if I read it as an ebook but c’est la vie.

[Jena · Rating 5 out of 5]

Symphony for a Deadly Throne is a beautiful and thrilling conclusion to the Mousai series. Easily my favourite, and the best written, of the trilogy. This is one of the best fantasy romance series I've read in a long time, and it deserves more recognition. Although this wasn't exactly what I expected, it was truly perfect in every way, and I could ramble on about it forever. I know that other readers will fall in love with this book as quickly as I did. I truly can't recommend it enough!
Thank you to NetGalley and Montlake for the eARC in exchange for an honest review

[Khurram · Rating 4 out of 5]

Finding their own paths

A very good book. How this book would follow the second book in the series, but it did a great job. Was surprised by the path this story took. I also enjoyed all the characters and personally think one character in particular from this deserves her spin-off book.

From the first book the attraction between Arabessa and Zimri was obvious, I was wondering how the book was going to be written when everyone could see what was between them. The theme of change throughout the book was an excellent touch it shows how all the characters in the series have grown and developed. This is more than a love story, it is a great journey of the main characters finding their own dreams and how hard they will fight and sacrifice to achieve them.

The book really shows the Thief Kingdoms' love of secrets and the necessary magic to hold it all together. As said before I think at least one more book needs to be written about the new Wolf in the kingdom.

[Olga · Rating 2 out of 5]

I absolutely loved the first two books in this series, which made this so confusing to me. I was about half way through and kept hearing that sound clip that goes “what happened to the original plot of the movie?” Why did Arabessa get such a lame story? Why was Zimri somehow a huge mess of indecision and gaslighting?

I was really looking forward to Arabessa and Zimri’s story but it fell flat in nearly every way. For two people who- spoilers- have been having a secret romance for years and claim to have loved each other for the better part of a decade….. I didn’t feel it at all. Their chemistry was so much better in small pieces in the previous books, so this just left me very confused.

On top of that, this book heavily relies on one of my BIGGEST pet peeve tropes, miscommunication. The entire plot of the book wouldn’t have happened if for miscommunication from both of our main characters and that just seems like there was no other way to get a large plot to the book.

There were other issues that just plagued this book’s plot and I found myself incredibly frustrated with both characters the majority of the time. Unfortunately, by the 50% point, I just wanted to get it over with. Never a fun feeling when closing out a series you’ve enjoyed thus far.

[Mandy · Rating 3 out of 5]

I need to collect my thoughts for a proper review. Thank you EJ Mellow and Netgalley for sending me an arc *RTC*

Oof. I guess I never came back to review. Out of all 3 books, this one was my least favorite. For me, it just didn’t hit like books 1&2. Book 2 was my absolute favorite. 1 was a close second. Book 3 was just missing something. The trope used also isn’t one of my favorites. I do love a good angsty filled love story, but this didn’t give me all the feels-unfortunately. It is still a very well written book and I still loved being back in this world. My favorite part of these books is when all the sisters are together. The underground, secret world is also something i really love about this series. It’s definitely a unique story. I look forward to reading EJ Mellows next series. There is just something about her story telling that sucks me in!!

[Ridhima · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5/5

Your music is your language, Arabessa, and I could listen for eternity to your words.

The final book of the Mousai Series focusses on the third and eldest daughter, Arabessa Bassette, gifted with magical powers that can make music out of any instrument and weaponize the effects of it like a sorceress.

Arabessa Bassette isn't my favorite sister out of the 3, but this book made me like her so much more! The author has made her character very likable, honorable, and generally relatable to the readers as well. The eldest sister - always making sacrifices, and having to be the sensible one amongst the three of them. Niya and Larkyra make multiple appearances as well, which definitely helps if you've read the Mousai series in order!

The main love interest, Zimri is a man definitely written by a woman. He is smart, understanding, patient, and utterly and completely dedicated to his love for Arabessa. It's impossible not to root for him as the book progresses.

The trials Arabessa faces as she vies for the dream she didn't even know she had were splendid and kept me reading this one well into the night. The book starts off slow, but it definitely picks up pace later on. With one or two open door romance scenes, lots of action (which was my main complaint with the first book) and a satisfying (albeit, slightly predictable) ending, E.J delivers on this finale to one of my favorite trilogies.

Although my favorite of the trilogy remains the second book dedicated to Niya, this one came close. Recommended for readers of light fantasy, romance and books that will make you feel all nice and gooey inside.

[madi · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 ⭐️

[Erika Sarutobi · Rating 2 out of 5]

I honestly had higher expectation because I ended up liking book 2 more than I thought I would, especially since this book has the deadly competition aspect. Sadly, that competition is executed so badly that it was the worst one I have ever read in my life. Every contestant does their tests alone and we do not even see the other contestants nor do we even learn their names. Moreover, the competition is barely part of the book, like probably barely even 5-10% of the whole book despite it being the premise of said book.

Overall, a huge disappointment because the whole premise was interesting and the romance was somewhat cringy that I couldn’t get behind it nor cared about the drama because of it. The only thing I like about the book was the reveals about the parents, especially the mom.

Thank you NetGalley for providing me with a digital copy for an honest review.

[think for yourself · Rating 4 out of 5]

Мій особистий рейтинг цієї серії можна описати так:
1. Друга частина про Нію 4,5/5
2. Перша книга про Ларкіру 4/5
3. Третя книга про Арабессу 3,5/5

Мені сподобалося розкриття таємниць в третій книзі. Безумовно - вони перевернули розуміння деяких героїв. Проте, мені не сподобалися відносини в останній книзі. Оскільки, я не люблю міжрасові пари (темношкір+світлошкір), ЦЕ ВІДНОСИТЬСЯ ЛИШЕ КНИГ. Це моя особиста примха, тому не дуже сподобалося. І ще знову повторення сюжетного каркасу.

[* YANITA · Rating 5 out of 5]

Чудове завершення трилогії🙌

[Elizabeth · Rating 2 out of 5]

I was really excited about this book since I really enjoyed the first two. Unfortunately, I found this quite disappointing. I liked Arabessa's character and her story. Zimri, on the other hand, seemed like a hindrance.

One thing I despise, more than anything else, is when a person refuses to take responsibility for their actions. So this scene pretty much sealed my opinion of Zimri.

"She had been trying to tell him as best she could with her silent oath. And still he had pressed her. Betrayed her." (yes, he acknowledged the betrayal, but then...) "Zimri’s frustration bubbled forward, a hot flash of resentment for the rules and secrecies of this kingdom. They were certainly in place for a reason, but he hated that it had put such a wedge between him and Arabessa. She finally was fighting for something for herself, her own choice of a future, and he hadn’t been able to stand beside her in support. In preparation."

Excuse me, Sir, but it was YOUR choice to betray her. YOUR choice not to trust in her. It's not the secrets' fault--not the rules that made you do what you did.

He didn't do something trivial and inconsequential. He violated her and took advantage of her when she was completely vulnerable. Add all of that to the, "give up your magic for a guy", trope? Pass.

There was lots of potential in the story itself. I just wasn't feeling it.

[Hot Mess Sommelière ~ Caro · Rating 1 out of 5]

Book 1 ⭐⭐
Book 2 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Book 3 fuck it it was bad

Childhood sweethearts to true love?

Uh, more like reluctant commitmentphobes to couple therapy! Also Zimri could do so much better.

Childhood sweethearts is one of my favorite tropes, and this book went and ruined it for me.

Not only were there 3 whole flashbacks in the first 18% of the book, the FMC still needed pages upon pages of monologues to ramble about why she couldn't commit to her childhood sweetheart Zimri, who is all like "I love you but you really need to not shut me out all the time" (he's so real for that! And also right - move on, Zimri!).

Meanwhile Arabessa is tied up in knots of her own making.

I'm not reading all that. Bye!



-----------------

After a tepid first book, I nearly dropped the series, but book 2 was a total banger. Loved it.

Book 3 actually has my probably favorite romance trope, the weirdly antagonistic childhood sweethearts who grew up together, pretend to be totally chill and siblingy but are instead transparently simping over each other so that literally everyone knows how lost they are, except them.

God, I hope this is a repeat performance of book 2.

[Brend · Rating 4 out of 5]

The couple:

[Faith · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you Netgalley and the publisher for this ar. 💚
3.5 rounded up to 4
Firstly, the writing. The best way to describe E.J. Mallows' writing style is wondrous and ensnaring. She clutched me, emotionally and mentally, with this bewildering, pain inducing finale. She filled her chapters with flowery and clever metaphors, put her characters through difficult situations and impossible decisions.

"You, Arabessa Bassette, have reigned over my heart since the first night I met you"
One of the many quotes I loved from these two. Their romance was so freaking painful I had to take a break for a day from reading it. I loved how precious they are to each other.

One of the greatest conflict throughout the series should've been not being able to separate Dolion's and thief king's actions. at one point in each books the thief king forced each daughter to do something she hated or was not comfortable with. Yet when he took their father's form everything went back to normal as if he didn't force shit on to them, which bothered me. there was no confrontations or emotional reckonings on that front. It was a huge missed opportunity.

Alas, this was a very pleasant series (except book 2, I pretend it doesn't exist) and I had a wonderful time with it.

[Paul · Rating 2 out of 5]

Quite a few of the reviews are from individuals who received a copy in exchange for their opinion. It would have been nice to have received an ARC, then I wouldn’t have had to waste money on this last installment of the Mousai series.

The first two books in this trilogy were enjoyable, but this third book is simply bad writing even for a fantasy romance. My favorite line was “With these incessant voices in her head,…” because it describes most of the book. It is one thing to tell us a character is having repetitive thoughts, it is another to have to read and reread them chapter after chapter after chapter. Only a few good action scenes are spaced apart by tedious monotony, revisiting and rehashing worn out romance tropes between the main characters. So much potential, but ultimately Arabessa’s characterization is unbelievable as to her accomplishments. Disappointing.

[Cassandra · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Mousai series has consumed so many of my thoughts and now it's over and my heart is IN PAIN. I fell in love with these characters immediately and now I am losing the continuation of knowing more is to come.

Symphony for a Deadly Throne is a surprising conclusion to a surprising series. I never knew what to expect at any point in time as I read from book one to book three and I think that's something I loved most about reading it.

We FINALLY have reached Zimri and Arabessa's story and this was one that was long awaited. With such lyrical storytelling, EJ brings us into their romantic journey but it is not so clear cut like absolutely no one expected (eye roll). This was a story about sacrifice as much as it was about love and Ara has a lot of big decisions to make that require her to look beyond her own gain. Zimri's love for her knows no end but it is not so simple. The two of them must see if a path for their love is something that can be foraged but when obstacles are thrown in their way... it is hard to have hope.

I felt like the pacing of this was a little off and that's my one big thing that knocked this down from a full 5 stars. This is definitely still a high four but I just was very surprised I'd reached the ending so quickly and thought something was missing. I still loved this though.

Thank you to NetGalley and Montlake for the ARC in exchange for an honest review!

[Philine · Rating 4 out of 5]

4,5 Sterne. Teil 2 bleibt mein Favorit, aber Teil 3 ist nah hintendran. :)

[Courtney · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you NetGalley, Montlake publishing, and E.J. Mellow, for the opportunity to read an advanced copy of SYMPHONY FOR A DEADLY THRONE in exchange for my honest review!

Symphony for a Deadly Throne by E.J. Mellow is the third installment in the Mousai series. Each book in this series follows one of the Bassette sisters with SYMPHONY following the eldest sister, Arabessa.

As the eldest, Arabessa always puts her duty toward her family, her magic, and her kingdom first, even if that means letting her heart play second fiddle. Within this story, the line between love and duty is tested to its limit as Arabessa's ambitions and love life meet at a crossroads.

"I cannot only care for you partially, love you in half measures. That is like asking the sea to not yearn toward the shore with its waves."

I loved both of the stories following the two younger sisters in the previous books, therefore I could not wait for Arabessa's story!

Arabessa and Zimri have my whole heart. Their love for each other was so potent from the very beginning. And the angst that they brought with clearly wanting to be together, but having these obstacles in the way, keeping them from being happy and in love together, was torturous! It only made their official coming together so much sweeter. All of that goes to how well Mellow writes romantic tension between characters. I have so many highlights of moments and sentences that moved me.

The world around the Mousai and the Thief Kingdom is so fascinating to me, I am always left wanting more! The character of Achak is such a mystery to me still, I would more than enjoy a spin off novella that dives deeper into their character, and some of the history of this world.

One of the highlights of this series is the emphasis on the bond between the three sisters. I love how much fun they have together bantering and bickering. Each sister is clearly their own distinguished person--unique and set apart--but they form a whole force to be reckoned with when they're together. I love how much they care and would do anything for each other.

I think this book was such a satisfying ending to the Mousai. I will definitely return to this series for a reread!

4.25/5 Stars

[Olive · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you to NetGalley and Montlake for the eARC.

This is the third book in a series about three powerful sisters. Books 1 & 2 were five stars, but this one didn’t land quite as well for me.

Arabessa is my least favorite sister—her personality rubs me the wrong way. And the relationship with Zimri didn’t grab me like the others.

I also wasn’t a huge fan of how the book ended. It left me unsatisfied, but I can’t explain why without spoiling the plot.

It was still very good, but not as good as the author’s previous books in this series.

[Kyra · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have been wanting an Arabessa story since book one of this series and my goddddd did this deliver. I stand by saying the world building in this series is one of my favorite fantasy reads ever. The writing is SO beautiful and the consistent character growth shown in each sister through each book is amazing. I absolutely loved Arabessa’s story and cannot wait until this book is out for her story to be fully shared💚

[lookmairead · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.75/5
I don’t have a category for popcorn-worthy romance/fantasy, but maybe I should considering how unapologetically I inhaled this. I tend to crave this category between my heavier and/or sadder reads.

Consent is so sexy, and Mellow knows it.

Yes, the world-building felt like it was back-burner, but front burners - romance and family dynamics where constantly stirred.