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The Last Wayfinder
There are no chains for criminals on Abashi Island, only endless ice.
Born into prison, Kira has only known the arctic wasteland where the worst criminals are sent to be forgotten—including her mother. When a brutal Imperial Inspector sentences her family to death, she unleashes a forbidden magic that comes with a devastating cost: her sister is cursed, transformed into a monster.
Desperate for a cure, she strikes a deal with Captain Ren, a notorious monster hunter whose icy exterior matches the unforgiving landscape. He’s everything Kira despises—rigid, lawful, dangerous—and unfortunately, necessary for survival.
As the two forge an uneasy alliance, Kira discovers the chilling truth about her imprisonment and that more is at stake than her sister’s soul. Now, Kira must risk treason and master her ancestors’ wayfinding magic before she loses her sister—and the beautiful world she’s only begun to discover.
Born into prison, Kira has only known the arctic wasteland where the worst criminals are sent to be forgotten—including her mother. When a brutal Imperial Inspector sentences her family to death, she unleashes a forbidden magic that comes with a devastating cost: her sister is cursed, transformed into a monster.
Desperate for a cure, she strikes a deal with Captain Ren, a notorious monster hunter whose icy exterior matches the unforgiving landscape. He’s everything Kira despises—rigid, lawful, dangerous—and unfortunately, necessary for survival.
As the two forge an uneasy alliance, Kira discovers the chilling truth about her imprisonment and that more is at stake than her sister’s soul. Now, Kira must risk treason and master her ancestors’ wayfinding magic before she loses her sister—and the beautiful world she’s only begun to discover.
334 pages, Paperback
Published January 1, 2026
About the author
Ellen McGinty
5 books223 followersEllen McGinty is an author and editor of Young Adult fantasy and historical fiction. She lives in the Tokyo metropolis with her husband, three boys, and a hypoallergenic cat. When not writing or editing, you can find her exploring the wilds of Japan with an abundance of espresso and the occasional kimono.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 44 reviews
March 4, 2026
For me, this second book in the Hearts of Ezo series was better than Saints and Monsters. Better written, better planned in terms of plot, with less confusion about the world and its lore, and above all with a cast of main characters that was more appealing than the first.
Oh, and there’s no love triangle!
I wouldn’t be surprised if this one improvement in the second book over the more flawed first book will push other readers to like this story best, too. Lots of us really loathe love triangles in any kind, shape, and form.
Tree-ladden full review over at my niwasaki.
Oh, and there’s no love triangle!
I wouldn’t be surprised if this one improvement in the second book over the more flawed first book will push other readers to like this story best, too. Lots of us really loathe love triangles in any kind, shape, and form.
Tree-ladden full review over at my niwasaki.
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February 18, 2026Ellen McGinty is such a professional in the way she writes, publishes, and markets her epic fantasy books. They are always enjoyable to read, and the physical books are GORGEOUS.
One thing I really appreciated in this was that the descriptions of Ezo (McGinty's alt-East Asian fantasy world based on Meiji Era Japan) were just as lush and atmospheric by the final act as they were in the set-up. If I got a little lost at times with the magic system and backstory, the strength of McGinty's prose always carried me, and I expect it may have something to do with my unfamiliarity with anime tropes.
One thing I really appreciated in this was that the descriptions of Ezo (McGinty's alt-East Asian fantasy world based on Meiji Era Japan) were just as lush and atmospheric by the final act as they were in the set-up. If I got a little lost at times with the magic system and backstory, the strength of McGinty's prose always carried me, and I expect it may have something to do with my unfamiliarity with anime tropes.
May 17, 2026
LOVED.
BLOG || INSTAGRAM || TIKTOK
Ellen McGinty did it again. I have sincerely loved both of her books and can’t recommend them enough. If you love young adult fantasy that’s kisses only (with the romance as more of a subplot), great character arcs and learning moments and strong sibling relationships, look no further. This is the type of story I would love to share with my littles when they’re older.
I loved the depth of Kira’s character. She’s resilient and a bit stubborn and that only adds to her growth as she moves through the world. Kira’s love for her sister knew no bounds and I appreciated having that kind of bond between siblings.
The romance was also sweet. It’s got a good push and pull and doesn’t over take the general themes of the novel. I liked Ren a lot and felt like we got a good story from him without having his POV. I just loved the journey for everyone.
Beautiful story.
Overall audience notes:
- YA Fantasy + Romance
- Language: none
- Romance: kisses
- Violence: moderate
- Content warnings: living in a prison camp, loss of a parent
BLOG || INSTAGRAM || TIKTOK
Ellen McGinty did it again. I have sincerely loved both of her books and can’t recommend them enough. If you love young adult fantasy that’s kisses only (with the romance as more of a subplot), great character arcs and learning moments and strong sibling relationships, look no further. This is the type of story I would love to share with my littles when they’re older.
I loved the depth of Kira’s character. She’s resilient and a bit stubborn and that only adds to her growth as she moves through the world. Kira’s love for her sister knew no bounds and I appreciated having that kind of bond between siblings.
The romance was also sweet. It’s got a good push and pull and doesn’t over take the general themes of the novel. I liked Ren a lot and felt like we got a good story from him without having his POV. I just loved the journey for everyone.
Beautiful story.
Overall audience notes:
- YA Fantasy + Romance
- Language: none
- Romance: kisses
- Violence: moderate
- Content warnings: living in a prison camp, loss of a parent
December 2, 2025
As in Saints and Monsters, Ellen's storytelling is a beautiful blend of fantasy and a historical vibe which makes it feel incredibly realistic. Her characters grab my heart and their trials and growth is a beautiful and tumultous journey. Parts of this book wrecked me. Parts healed me. Highly recommend!
February 11, 2026
Every single star for this book.
I finished it in a DAY. I need every book in this series… and will probably buy any book written by McGinty!!
Better review to come when I have my wits about me.
But I have to say this… Ren is Mr. Darcy and Zenri is Bingley and I can’t unsee it now 🥹😂 and I absolutely ADORE Darcy, so that’s where that places me!
I was NOT prepared for the connections to Saints and Monsters and my GOSH it ruined me, had to actually set the book down for a little while 😭
I’ll be screaming about this book for a while.
It’s only month two in 2026 and I’ll wager this book stay in my top 5, if not top 3, or number one spot for the rest of the year. So. Freakin. Good.
I finished it in a DAY. I need every book in this series… and will probably buy any book written by McGinty!!
Better review to come when I have my wits about me.
But I have to say this… Ren is Mr. Darcy and Zenri is Bingley and I can’t unsee it now 🥹😂 and I absolutely ADORE Darcy, so that’s where that places me!
I was NOT prepared for the connections to Saints and Monsters and my GOSH it ruined me, had to actually set the book down for a little while 😭
I’ll be screaming about this book for a while.
It’s only month two in 2026 and I’ll wager this book stay in my top 5, if not top 3, or number one spot for the rest of the year. So. Freakin. Good.
January 31, 2026
I have thoughts... I have a lot of thoughts...
This book starts out so good, like, the kind of book that would have me up until 3am reading because I just couldn't put it down. The writing is excellent, the world full of depth, and the characters so very beautifully human. I'm talking about 11 chapters of some of the best literary work I've encountered among indie published books.
Then, halfway through chapter 11, enter Captain Renjiro. My dudes, this man didn't kill the vibes, he MURDERED them!
The story goes from a riveting prison escape to some generic enemies-to-lovers cringe fest. Our girl Kira is suddenly reduced to a cut-and-paste fiery female lead who spends the next six chapters hating Ren but simultaneously swooning over his every move, while tall-dark-and-dreamy proves himself a walking red flag of hypocrisy and arrogance and thoroughly lacking in basic skills of communication and reason. Their chemistry from there can be summed up into "He's hot".
I'm going to sum up the next six chapters for you here: Ren doesn’t tell Kira anything useful except that he fully intends to kill her sister and send her back to prison. Kira tells him she's looking for an apothecary to cure her sister. Ren is also looking for said apothecary. Ren drops vague hints that the cure might not be all it seems and that the apothecary might be a bad guy but never actually gives her a concrete explanation about anything despite having a day-long train ride with nothing else to do but talk. Ren uses Kira to find apothecary. Ren tries to kill apothecary. Ren feels shocked, angry, and betrayed when Kira stops him from killing apothecary and agrees to help the apothecary inorder to gain the cure to save her sister, you know, like she said she was going to.
Things start to get good again in chapter 18 when Kira finally ditches Ren. He shows up again and continues to be a self-righteous prick, but it's much more tolerable from here out. In Chapter 22, they finally have the conversation they should have had on the train back in Chapter 12, and Ren proves he is as thoroughly untrustworthy as Kira thought he was. Honestly, the book is pretty good from here on out, but that slog of nonsense in the middle just killed my energy for the story.
Normally, when a book irritates me like this, I don't give it a long review like this because I deem it not worth anymore time than it has already stolen from me, but today I feel like ranting, so let's get into a couple nitpicky things that really bugged me as well:
. Quote: "There are no chains (in Abashi Prison), only vast sheets of ice and the promise of a slow, agonizing death if we try to escape."
It literally takes them less than a day to cross the ice and find shelter, and about 2 more days to reach the city. They wouldn't even have died of dehydration in that time, much less hunger.
. "You're not the kind of person who runs. You're weak." - Ren speaking to the girl who survived 18 years in an ice prison with brutal guards, lived off boiled bone soup, and the only one to actually succeed in escaping the prison. This isn't the last time he is demeaning towards her either. He has a lot of red flags. He blames her, insults her, and constantly imposes his will on her even going as far as to drug her inorder to make her rest because he know best and he's always right and he can break the law when his interests are at stake, but nobody else can.
I'mma show myself out now.
This book starts out so good, like, the kind of book that would have me up until 3am reading because I just couldn't put it down. The writing is excellent, the world full of depth, and the characters so very beautifully human. I'm talking about 11 chapters of some of the best literary work I've encountered among indie published books.
Then, halfway through chapter 11, enter Captain Renjiro. My dudes, this man didn't kill the vibes, he MURDERED them!
The story goes from a riveting prison escape to some generic enemies-to-lovers cringe fest. Our girl Kira is suddenly reduced to a cut-and-paste fiery female lead who spends the next six chapters hating Ren but simultaneously swooning over his every move, while tall-dark-and-dreamy proves himself a walking red flag of hypocrisy and arrogance and thoroughly lacking in basic skills of communication and reason. Their chemistry from there can be summed up into "He's hot".
I'm going to sum up the next six chapters for you here: Ren doesn’t tell Kira anything useful except that he fully intends to kill her sister and send her back to prison. Kira tells him she's looking for an apothecary to cure her sister. Ren is also looking for said apothecary. Ren drops vague hints that the cure might not be all it seems and that the apothecary might be a bad guy but never actually gives her a concrete explanation about anything despite having a day-long train ride with nothing else to do but talk. Ren uses Kira to find apothecary. Ren tries to kill apothecary. Ren feels shocked, angry, and betrayed when Kira stops him from killing apothecary and agrees to help the apothecary inorder to gain the cure to save her sister, you know, like she said she was going to.
Things start to get good again in chapter 18 when Kira finally ditches Ren. He shows up again and continues to be a self-righteous prick, but it's much more tolerable from here out. In Chapter 22, they finally have the conversation they should have had on the train back in Chapter 12, and Ren proves he is as thoroughly untrustworthy as Kira thought he was. Honestly, the book is pretty good from here on out, but that slog of nonsense in the middle just killed my energy for the story.
Normally, when a book irritates me like this, I don't give it a long review like this because I deem it not worth anymore time than it has already stolen from me, but today I feel like ranting, so let's get into a couple nitpicky things that really bugged me as well:
. Quote: "There are no chains (in Abashi Prison), only vast sheets of ice and the promise of a slow, agonizing death if we try to escape."
It literally takes them less than a day to cross the ice and find shelter, and about 2 more days to reach the city. They wouldn't even have died of dehydration in that time, much less hunger.
. "You're not the kind of person who runs. You're weak." - Ren speaking to the girl who survived 18 years in an ice prison with brutal guards, lived off boiled bone soup, and the only one to actually succeed in escaping the prison. This isn't the last time he is demeaning towards her either. He has a lot of red flags. He blames her, insults her, and constantly imposes his will on her even going as far as to drug her inorder to make her rest because he know best and he's always right and he can break the law when his interests are at stake, but nobody else can.
I'mma show myself out now.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 17, 2026
Imagine the 1997 animated film Anastasia meets the anime Demon Slayer and a strong sister bond in the vein of Rowan and Blythe from The Goodness of Unicorns—an utter masterpiece. The Last Wayfinder, one of my new favorite books.
The Last Wayfinder is a beautiful story weaving themes of family, sacrifice, redemption, and love in a high stakes narrative that explores choice, consequence, and the power to write one’s own fate.
I’ll most definitely be rereading in the future!
The Last Wayfinder is a beautiful story weaving themes of family, sacrifice, redemption, and love in a high stakes narrative that explores choice, consequence, and the power to write one’s own fate.
I’ll most definitely be rereading in the future!
May 19, 2026
Okay, I kind of loved that?
The characters were all wonderful and the sister relationship was beautiful. I also really liked the worldbuilding, though I found myself wanting to know more about the world. But I suppose I have to wait and see what might happen in the sequels.
My only real complaint is that the pacing, especially in the last half, felt immensely rushed compared to the first half, and I felt sometimes that I was missing pieces of development because of that. Which is why it was a four-star for me instead of a five, I think.
Overall though, a really lovely written story with some beautiful imagery and a great sister dynamic. Would read again.
The characters were all wonderful and the sister relationship was beautiful. I also really liked the worldbuilding, though I found myself wanting to know more about the world. But I suppose I have to wait and see what might happen in the sequels.
My only real complaint is that the pacing, especially in the last half, felt immensely rushed compared to the first half, and I felt sometimes that I was missing pieces of development because of that. Which is why it was a four-star for me instead of a five, I think.
Overall though, a really lovely written story with some beautiful imagery and a great sister dynamic. Would read again.
February 21, 2026
Ok so my best friend lent me her spare copy so that we could read it together (shout out to Anna).
this book . . . is absolutely amazing. full of adventure, hope and whimsy, the story of our last wayfinder Kira wiggles it's way into your heart.
Being a fan of Miss McGinty's for a LONG time, and knowing her somewhat personally, there where definitely moments where I would say out "Miss McGinty, what is going on?!". to say this book had me on the edge of my seat is an understatement.
AND ALSO THE LORE THIS BOOK HAS, READERS OF SAINTS AND MONSTERS PREPARE TO HAVE YOUR JAWS ON THE FLOOR.
Kira x Ren forever 💙🩵💙🩵
please go read this book. Just do it
this book . . . is absolutely amazing. full of adventure, hope and whimsy, the story of our last wayfinder Kira wiggles it's way into your heart.
Being a fan of Miss McGinty's for a LONG time, and knowing her somewhat personally, there where definitely moments where I would say out "Miss McGinty, what is going on?!". to say this book had me on the edge of my seat is an understatement.
AND ALSO THE LORE THIS BOOK HAS, READERS OF SAINTS AND MONSTERS PREPARE TO HAVE YOUR JAWS ON THE FLOOR.
Kira x Ren forever 💙🩵💙🩵
please go read this book. Just do it
March 8, 2026
I tore through The Last Wayfinder pretty much the minute it arrived. In fact, my almost-eight-year-old was so intrigued by the cover and the stunning sprayed edges that she stole my book one evening before I even finished. I warned her that the book was meant for teens and might be a bit scary for her, but she saw this as a challenge more than a warning and kept reading.
The next thing I knew, my kiddo had devoured a whole chapter. I asked her how she liked it, and she looked up with a big grin and told me she loved it! Five stars from her and five from me as well!
The next thing I knew, my kiddo had devoured a whole chapter. I asked her how she liked it, and she looked up with a big grin and told me she loved it! Five stars from her and five from me as well!
October 29, 2025
I love Ellen’s stories! This one was so unique but it also had Ellen’s classic style. There were a few characters from the last book, but it doesn’t have to be read together, though the story is fuller if it is.
If you love fantasy, enemies to lovers, and Japanese culture, these books are perfect!
If you love fantasy, enemies to lovers, and Japanese culture, these books are perfect!
April 29, 2026
When I saw this on Kickstarter and the Demon Slayer vibes, I had a feeling that this book was going to be interesting. This book is full of heart and emotion while transporting me to a world much like Meiji Restoration Japan but with magic infused. While this is the second book of the Hearts of Ezo series, after Saints and Monsters, this can be read as a standalone, and I have yet to read Saints and Monsters as of this review.
We follow Kira, who's lived on an icy prison island for her entire life, but desperately wants to know why and to learn about her rare way finding magic, but her mother refuses to answer her and only tells her to protect her weaker older sister, Yuki. She's a great character, as she's allowed to make mistakes and fail, and often doubts herself in the face of insurmountable odds, but she doesn't give up. Yuki is an interesting character, and has her own struggles. Ren took me a while to warm up to, but I liked him by the end of the story. I enjoyed most of the rest of the cast in their roles and made for some interesting dynamics. There is a hinting of romance, but it's mostly back burner to the urgent task the characters have going.
The setting was vivid and it felt like I was in the middle of the ice and snow of this prison island, then exploring the other parts of the lands with their many spectacles that the regions has in store. There was a lot of thought put into this aspect of the story and it was very immersive. The magic was visual and immersive and not too hard to understand and follow. Wayfinding was so unique in the execution, as well as some of the other magical elements that showed up.
The themes of preserving through impossible odds and redemption from one's mistakes was played out well, with a hopeful vibe to the entire situation. This story has great prose and a huge emotional heart with many of the passages tugging at heartstrings. The narration by Jane Maree was excellent and she brought out all the heartache and emotion from the prose and made it very impactful. 10/10 on the narration.
The plot was intriguing and had good pacing, keeping me on my toes with every new twist. The last part of the book felt slightly rushed, wishing it would have taken a couple more chapters to play out. Plus a major question was left hanging. The ending hints at the characters returning for a future novel, as this is a series of interconnected standalone.
This was an enjoyable book and look forward to reading more! Recommended if you like an emotionally heart breaking story with magic and hope.
*I purchased this book on Kickstarter.*
We follow Kira, who's lived on an icy prison island for her entire life, but desperately wants to know why and to learn about her rare way finding magic, but her mother refuses to answer her and only tells her to protect her weaker older sister, Yuki. She's a great character, as she's allowed to make mistakes and fail, and often doubts herself in the face of insurmountable odds, but she doesn't give up. Yuki is an interesting character, and has her own struggles. Ren took me a while to warm up to, but I liked him by the end of the story. I enjoyed most of the rest of the cast in their roles and made for some interesting dynamics. There is a hinting of romance, but it's mostly back burner to the urgent task the characters have going.
The setting was vivid and it felt like I was in the middle of the ice and snow of this prison island, then exploring the other parts of the lands with their many spectacles that the regions has in store. There was a lot of thought put into this aspect of the story and it was very immersive. The magic was visual and immersive and not too hard to understand and follow. Wayfinding was so unique in the execution, as well as some of the other magical elements that showed up.
The themes of preserving through impossible odds and redemption from one's mistakes was played out well, with a hopeful vibe to the entire situation. This story has great prose and a huge emotional heart with many of the passages tugging at heartstrings. The narration by Jane Maree was excellent and she brought out all the heartache and emotion from the prose and made it very impactful. 10/10 on the narration.
The plot was intriguing and had good pacing, keeping me on my toes with every new twist. The last part of the book felt slightly rushed, wishing it would have taken a couple more chapters to play out. Plus a major question was left hanging. The ending hints at the characters returning for a future novel, as this is a series of interconnected standalone.
This was an enjoyable book and look forward to reading more! Recommended if you like an emotionally heart breaking story with magic and hope.
*I purchased this book on Kickstarter.*
September 17, 2025
The Last Wayfinder is simply fantastic. Ellen McGinty has a gift for crafting not only immersive worlds, but also incredibly relatable chatacters whose flaws and cracks afford plenty of space for Light to shine through. The main character, Kira, was one of my favorite new-to-me literary characters of the year.
This story made me laugh and cry on more than one occasion, and I’m already eager to reread it. While I already adored McGinty’s Saints and Monsters, The Last Wayfinder solidified McGinty as an auto-buy author for me from here on out. Highly recommend this book!
This story made me laugh and cry on more than one occasion, and I’m already eager to reread it. While I already adored McGinty’s Saints and Monsters, The Last Wayfinder solidified McGinty as an auto-buy author for me from here on out. Highly recommend this book!
January 3, 2026
This book started slower with a rambling adventure of a first half and a very exciting and driven second half. I enjoyed the themes of strong hope in the face of adversity, and I liked the way magic worked, both as gifts and as curses. The connections to Saints and Monsters characters made me feel more invested, and it was far more connected than I expected! I especially liked Rin- his character arc was so perfect and he is the most endearing here! I wish I felt more connected during the first half of the book, but I overall leave this book glad to have read it and hopeful for a sequel ☺️
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February 10, 2026
Rtcccc 🤭
March 5, 2026
great I’m just waiting for dukes and dragons
Loved especially some quotes perfect mix of no spice romance and action would totally read a sequel but the only reason I’m not giving this five stars is I’m team runa and Casmir iykyk
Loved especially some quotes perfect mix of no spice romance and action would totally read a sequel but the only reason I’m not giving this five stars is I’m team runa and Casmir iykyk
February 25, 2026
Oh, to find the words to describe how much I loved The Last Wayfinder!
The characters stole my heart from the very beginning. I loved the sisterly bond that Kira and Yuki shared. Kira’s fierce determination was inspiring, and I admired the way she never let fear control her. I knew even before picking this book up that I would love Ren, but I wasn’t prepared for his plot twist of a backstory. (And I say this as someone who is very good at guessing plot twists.) Zenri also deserves a shoutout! I would love to know more of his backstory. And I was glad to have a real villain without a sympathy-inducing backstory so I could properly hate him. (Give me a villain that is actually a villain!)
The story kept me on the edge of my seat as I tried to guess what would happen next. The plot twists seriously took me by surprise more than once! (The way my jaw dropped while I was listening to the audiobook at work—totally not embarrassing at all. lol) The descriptions were also super vivid without slowing down the pacing. I felt like I was transported to a different world. Ellen McGinty is a superb writer! Hope shines bright throughout these pages, and I wouldn’t have it any other way.
If anything, I would complain that this book was too short. I seriously did not want it to end! Immediately after finishing the audiobook, I was ready to start it again. While it is connected to Saints and Monsters (also an excellent read), it can totally be read as a standalone.
The audiobook was high-quality, immersive, and excellently produced, but I’m also so happy to have the Kickstarter hardcover edition on my bookshelf. It is seriously the prettiest book I own!
Full five stars!! Anime fans will love this! Fantasy fans will love this! Dragon lovers will love this! Highly recommend to readers 13+
Content: zero spice/smut, zero cussing. There is some death/violence, but it is not graphic. *slight spoiler*
The characters stole my heart from the very beginning. I loved the sisterly bond that Kira and Yuki shared. Kira’s fierce determination was inspiring, and I admired the way she never let fear control her. I knew even before picking this book up that I would love Ren, but I wasn’t prepared for his plot twist of a backstory. (And I say this as someone who is very good at guessing plot twists.) Zenri also deserves a shoutout! I would love to know more of his backstory. And I was glad to have a real villain without a sympathy-inducing backstory so I could properly hate him. (Give me a villain that is actually a villain!)
The story kept me on the edge of my seat as I tried to guess what would happen next. The plot twists seriously took me by surprise more than once! (The way my jaw dropped while I was listening to the audiobook at work—totally not embarrassing at all. lol) The descriptions were also super vivid without slowing down the pacing. I felt like I was transported to a different world. Ellen McGinty is a superb writer! Hope shines bright throughout these pages, and I wouldn’t have it any other way.
If anything, I would complain that this book was too short. I seriously did not want it to end! Immediately after finishing the audiobook, I was ready to start it again. While it is connected to Saints and Monsters (also an excellent read), it can totally be read as a standalone.
The audiobook was high-quality, immersive, and excellently produced, but I’m also so happy to have the Kickstarter hardcover edition on my bookshelf. It is seriously the prettiest book I own!
Full five stars!! Anime fans will love this! Fantasy fans will love this! Dragon lovers will love this! Highly recommend to readers 13+
Content: zero spice/smut, zero cussing. There is some death/violence, but it is not graphic. *slight spoiler*
March 23, 2026
Okay I must say... I didn't enjoy this book as much as Saints and Monsters. Is that partly because I just want more of Soran and Meera? Yes. Definitely.
Anyways, I still loved the culture, world building, and descriptions. The characters are also amazing, though I do admit I was a little upset with Kira for not being more furious at Ren... when he literally kept telling her he was going to hand her and her sister over to the authorities to be killed. I loved her personality, though, and Ren's background made me so happy XD.
I was also very impressed with how well this book tied into Saints and Monsters. After going back and rereading the first book after finishing this one, I found so much foreshadowing for this book.
When I read this sentence in Saints in Monsters during one of Soran's chapters, I literally almost cried:
"During his [Soran's] fight with the wayfinder, she'd mentioned a cell in his future, one that would tear his heart out."
AGH WHYYYYY WHY DID SHE DO THAT TO ME?! I was seriously so so sad... poor Soran and Ren *sobs*. And me, ofc. I'm absolutely devastated about this and we'd better get more of Meera and Soran in Dukes and Dragons. Amazing foreshadowing, though. I'm also wondering if this wayfinder happens to eventually become Kira's mother??? Who knows XD maybe we'll find that out in the next book.
So, really the main thing that leaves me upset is I just want more XD, which is a good thing. I want to know what happened to all of the Kingdoms and why Taiga took over, what happened to Bastian, and a thousand other things. Plus, more of Meera and Soran, please. Before the heartbreak.
Amazing book, and I absolutely cannot wait for Dukes and Dragons! Hopefully it'll answer my questions XD
Content: demons, curses, mild romance, mild violence
Anyways, I still loved the culture, world building, and descriptions. The characters are also amazing, though I do admit I was a little upset with Kira for not being more furious at Ren... when he literally kept telling her he was going to hand her and her sister over to the authorities to be killed. I loved her personality, though, and Ren's background made me so happy XD.
I was also very impressed with how well this book tied into Saints and Monsters. After going back and rereading the first book after finishing this one, I found so much foreshadowing for this book.
When I read this sentence in Saints in Monsters during one of Soran's chapters, I literally almost cried:
"During his [Soran's] fight with the wayfinder, she'd mentioned a cell in his future, one that would tear his heart out."
AGH WHYYYYY WHY DID SHE DO THAT TO ME?! I was seriously so so sad... poor Soran and Ren *sobs*. And me, ofc. I'm absolutely devastated about this and we'd better get more of Meera and Soran in Dukes and Dragons. Amazing foreshadowing, though. I'm also wondering if this wayfinder happens to eventually become Kira's mother??? Who knows XD maybe we'll find that out in the next book.
So, really the main thing that leaves me upset is I just want more XD, which is a good thing. I want to know what happened to all of the Kingdoms and why Taiga took over, what happened to Bastian, and a thousand other things. Plus, more of Meera and Soran, please. Before the heartbreak.
Amazing book, and I absolutely cannot wait for Dukes and Dragons! Hopefully it'll answer my questions XD
Content: demons, curses, mild romance, mild violence
February 26, 2026
This book is, in a word: magnificent. And honestly, writing this, I'm struggling with how to succinctly convey to you how and why it's worth every second of your time with it.
On the one hand, it's a slow-burn enemies-to-allies romance wrapped in vivid worldbuilding inspired by Meiji era Japan and gorgeously thematic with hearts iced over by suffering softening in the face of genuine kindness.
On the other had, it's a thrilling adventure through a wintry landscape full of monsters and ancient magic, compelling characters, and full-immersion storytelling that was more like storyshowing. I don't feel like I read this book. I experienced it in all its heart racing action, emotional depth, grit, beauty, and humor.
It might be a romance, but it's not a fluffy one, and I so appreciate that the conflict and tension were driven by so much more than that. Like convictions, worldview, and the value and identity of a person.
While a self-sufficient standalone, there are ties to McGinty's preceding SAINTS AND MONSTERS that, for me, elevated the entire ordeal with familiar and beloved faces. The continuity yet independence of this story is delightful and something I admire as both a reader and a craftsman.
All in all, I was enchanted, devastated, revived, and wholly taken by this book. But if you need more convincing, it's like Les Misérables with dragons and demon hunters, mysteries unfurling like spring flowers, ballroom dances, trafficking rescues, shapeshifters, family bonds, weaponized mochi, scintillating rebellions, and a grumpy/sunshine dynamic you can't not love.
Oh, and the return of the pink pants.
Long live those pink pants.
On the one hand, it's a slow-burn enemies-to-allies romance wrapped in vivid worldbuilding inspired by Meiji era Japan and gorgeously thematic with hearts iced over by suffering softening in the face of genuine kindness.
On the other had, it's a thrilling adventure through a wintry landscape full of monsters and ancient magic, compelling characters, and full-immersion storytelling that was more like storyshowing. I don't feel like I read this book. I experienced it in all its heart racing action, emotional depth, grit, beauty, and humor.
It might be a romance, but it's not a fluffy one, and I so appreciate that the conflict and tension were driven by so much more than that. Like convictions, worldview, and the value and identity of a person.
While a self-sufficient standalone, there are ties to McGinty's preceding SAINTS AND MONSTERS that, for me, elevated the entire ordeal with familiar and beloved faces. The continuity yet independence of this story is delightful and something I admire as both a reader and a craftsman.
All in all, I was enchanted, devastated, revived, and wholly taken by this book. But if you need more convincing, it's like Les Misérables with dragons and demon hunters, mysteries unfurling like spring flowers, ballroom dances, trafficking rescues, shapeshifters, family bonds, weaponized mochi, scintillating rebellions, and a grumpy/sunshine dynamic you can't not love.
Oh, and the return of the pink pants.
Long live those pink pants.
February 20, 2026
This was a lot of fun, and I genuinely enjoyed it. Kira, Yuki, Zenri, and Ren were all so, so sweet. The worldbuilding was really cool, though the magic system left me scratching my head in a few places.
Honestly, the thing that irked me about this and kept me from rating it 5 stars was the fact that there weren't many sequel-type scenes. A lot of the big information reveals about Ren happened in off-page conversations with Zenri (conversations which weren't referenced until a related conversation with Ren, in which Kira is like "so Zenri told me x about you, wanna explain?" and I basically went "HOLD THE PHONE, WHY AM I ONLY JUST NOW HEARING ABOUT X COOL THING ABOUT REN???" It only happened twice that I recall, but it still really bugged me, especially since I flipped back looking for those conversations with Zenri, and couldn't find them. I'd suspect that my copy of the book was missing pages, except for the fact that everything flowed smoothly up until those points.) As a reader, I wanted to see Kira's initial reaction to learning this information & have the opportunity to react along with her (I'm one of those readers who likes to know every single tiny bit of info as it comes to light, so I can try putting pieces together along with the MC), and I felt like that was stolen from me. Hence, the redacted star.
Otherwise, I really, really enjoyed this! Twas quite fun, and I'm excited to pick up Saints & Monsters next. XD
Honestly, the thing that irked me about this and kept me from rating it 5 stars was the fact that there weren't many sequel-type scenes. A lot of the big information reveals about Ren happened in off-page conversations with Zenri (conversations which weren't referenced until a related conversation with Ren, in which Kira is like "so Zenri told me x about you, wanna explain?" and I basically went "HOLD THE PHONE, WHY AM I ONLY JUST NOW HEARING ABOUT X COOL THING ABOUT REN???" It only happened twice that I recall, but it still really bugged me, especially since I flipped back looking for those conversations with Zenri, and couldn't find them. I'd suspect that my copy of the book was missing pages, except for the fact that everything flowed smoothly up until those points.) As a reader, I wanted to see Kira's initial reaction to learning this information & have the opportunity to react along with her (I'm one of those readers who likes to know every single tiny bit of info as it comes to light, so I can try putting pieces together along with the MC), and I felt like that was stolen from me. Hence, the redacted star.
Otherwise, I really, really enjoyed this! Twas quite fun, and I'm excited to pick up Saints & Monsters next. XD
May 7, 2026
To say I was excited to read this new book by @ellenmcginty_author would be an understatement. SAINTS & MONSTERS, Ellen’s debut novel, was my fav read of 2025. Japanese fantasy, dragons, and a FMC with a never give up mentality! Three things I’m obsessed with. In addition to an incredibly exciting plot Ellen’s writing is amazing. Beautiful prose mixed with fast-paced energy. That’s why when she shared her Kickstarter for THE LAST WAYFINDER I pledged faster than ever!
THE LAST WAYFINDER is a novel about a girl different to Meera but just as amazing! Kira was born in captivity but ready to face the many obstacles in a world foreign to her with a brave heart! I won’t talk too much about the plot because I’m scared I’ll unintentionally add a spoiler 😂❤️ But let me tell you that the book was an absolute page turner and had me obsess about the many subtle connections to SAINTS & MONSTERS!
My fav quote (I literally took a photo of my kindle and read this out loud to hubby, mom, and my lil sis coz I am so in love) is:
“One minute he’s cold as ice, the next he’s the sun melting it.”
Let me finish by telling you to stay tuned… This world Ellen created will continue to bring joy to readers who love books with a hopeful message! So go give her a follow on insta and support her beautiful art 😍🙌
THE LAST WAYFINDER is a novel about a girl different to Meera but just as amazing! Kira was born in captivity but ready to face the many obstacles in a world foreign to her with a brave heart! I won’t talk too much about the plot because I’m scared I’ll unintentionally add a spoiler 😂❤️ But let me tell you that the book was an absolute page turner and had me obsess about the many subtle connections to SAINTS & MONSTERS!
My fav quote (I literally took a photo of my kindle and read this out loud to hubby, mom, and my lil sis coz I am so in love) is:
“One minute he’s cold as ice, the next he’s the sun melting it.”
Let me finish by telling you to stay tuned… This world Ellen created will continue to bring joy to readers who love books with a hopeful message! So go give her a follow on insta and support her beautiful art 😍🙌
February 16, 2026
Well, I sat down to read this book and before I knew it I stayed up til midnight to finish this book. re-read Saints and Monsters before reading this book, just to give myself a refresher on the world and the characters.
The setting in this book is so different from Saints and Monsters. McGinty described the cold really well and the hopelessness a frozen prison like this would bring. The setting gives such a contrast to the warm and compassionate main characters -- which are so unlikely given the circumstances they were born in.
The themes of compassion, familial love and dedication, and the importance of your choices really shone through. The one question that I probably would take with me is, "What's your story?". Because when you ask this question to others, it will help you grow compassionate towards them. The main characters struggled and fought hard against all odds and circumstances, yet they come out not hardened by what they went through but softer and also stronger.
I am a sucker for courage, power of love and self sacrifice, and also happy endings. If you want to read something that grips your heart, gives you courage to do the right thing, and persevere through hardships; I recommend this book.
The setting in this book is so different from Saints and Monsters. McGinty described the cold really well and the hopelessness a frozen prison like this would bring. The setting gives such a contrast to the warm and compassionate main characters -- which are so unlikely given the circumstances they were born in.
The themes of compassion, familial love and dedication, and the importance of your choices really shone through. The one question that I probably would take with me is, "What's your story?". Because when you ask this question to others, it will help you grow compassionate towards them. The main characters struggled and fought hard against all odds and circumstances, yet they come out not hardened by what they went through but softer and also stronger.
I am a sucker for courage, power of love and self sacrifice, and also happy endings. If you want to read something that grips your heart, gives you courage to do the right thing, and persevere through hardships; I recommend this book.
May 7, 2026
I really enjoyed this one, and wondering why in the world this was SO hard to find. No bookstore had it, looked for months on how to get it, and I ended up finally getting it by paying in advanced for it to get delivered to my bookstore, all the while hoping it was worth all the aggravation.
The first half was worth it.
I really enjoyed the story up until they escape to the train station to try to find an apothecary Kira's mother tells her about, to try to help Yuki. Then Ren ahowed up and was the worst part of the entire story and changed the tone for the rest of it. Kira changes as a character to reflect this idiot, and suddenly there's an enemies to lovers trope shoehorned in.
I shall say it again- we do not need romance in every single fantasy book. I'd settle for Zenri over Ren because they became friends. I also wanted more time with Yuki and Kira together as she began to change. Yuki was there as a useless plot point much of the time, not speaking or doing much but acting like an animal. There should've still been dialogue between the sisters as she realizes she is changing. But there really isn't any. Take out Ren and we could've kept the prison heist adventure way more intriguing and fun.
The first half was worth it.
I really enjoyed the story up until they escape to the train station to try to find an apothecary Kira's mother tells her about, to try to help Yuki. Then Ren ahowed up and was the worst part of the entire story and changed the tone for the rest of it. Kira changes as a character to reflect this idiot, and suddenly there's an enemies to lovers trope shoehorned in.
I shall say it again- we do not need romance in every single fantasy book. I'd settle for Zenri over Ren because they became friends. I also wanted more time with Yuki and Kira together as she began to change. Yuki was there as a useless plot point much of the time, not speaking or doing much but acting like an animal. There should've still been dialogue between the sisters as she realizes she is changing. But there really isn't any. Take out Ren and we could've kept the prison heist adventure way more intriguing and fun.
February 24, 2026
"Caring—That's what makes the path worth following."
Did I sign up to be emotionally devastated by another Ellen McGinty book, knowing full well what I was in for? Yes. Did I get absolutely bowled over by the feelings wave anyway? I sure did.
This book took me on a roller-coaster ride of sibling bonds and family ties, monsters and curses, hope and heartache, the tension between duty and heart, laws and love, and most of all, a reminder that even in the deepest darkness, there is a path forward.
I fully expected to love Kira, the fiercely driven wayfinder struggling to control an outlawed magic and protect her cursed sister. I knew I was going to fall for Ren, the law-abiding captain who hunts down monsters and hides his own dark secrets. I understood Kira's drive to take care of what family she had left, even if that pitted her against the world, and Ren's iron grip on the one thing he feels he can still trust in a world that has crumbled around him.
This book was a rich, nuanced, complex tale of how deeply hurt and resentment and regrets can scar, and how much courage it takes to look past those wounds and see the humanity in someone else.
Did I sign up to be emotionally devastated by another Ellen McGinty book, knowing full well what I was in for? Yes. Did I get absolutely bowled over by the feelings wave anyway? I sure did.
This book took me on a roller-coaster ride of sibling bonds and family ties, monsters and curses, hope and heartache, the tension between duty and heart, laws and love, and most of all, a reminder that even in the deepest darkness, there is a path forward.
I fully expected to love Kira, the fiercely driven wayfinder struggling to control an outlawed magic and protect her cursed sister. I knew I was going to fall for Ren, the law-abiding captain who hunts down monsters and hides his own dark secrets. I understood Kira's drive to take care of what family she had left, even if that pitted her against the world, and Ren's iron grip on the one thing he feels he can still trust in a world that has crumbled around him.
This book was a rich, nuanced, complex tale of how deeply hurt and resentment and regrets can scar, and how much courage it takes to look past those wounds and see the humanity in someone else.
February 24, 2026
Ellen is a favorite in our house. Naturally, I anticipated enjoying this book...even loving it! But this truly blew my mind. I closed the cover (which is beautiful) and sat there in a stupor for a few minutes, processing this rich, poignant story! The interpersonal dynamics, the story-weaving, the heart... truly excellent! Having lived in Japan for several years myself, I was captivated by how well Ellen immersed me in the nuances and culture of such a unique nation. She has a gift for description and "painting" with words. It was atmospheric, compelling, and nostalgic...especially if you've read Saints & Monsters! The relationships were so well written and real.
Ellen doesn't shy away from tough realities. From consequences of actions and brutal truths. I admire this and deeply appreciate this approach to storytelling! But there is always hope and love.
Fast paced, stunning imagery, magical, deeply meaningful...I highly recommend!
Ellen doesn't shy away from tough realities. From consequences of actions and brutal truths. I admire this and deeply appreciate this approach to storytelling! But there is always hope and love.
Fast paced, stunning imagery, magical, deeply meaningful...I highly recommend!
January 9, 2026
Solid 4.5 stars! A true YA fantasy ✨
This book felt like Studio Ghibli & Kpop Demon Hunters did a dark frozen crossover in historical Japan and I LOVED it!
Kira is a courageous & principled heroine, Renjiro a handsome & morally conflicted monster hunter. She is fleeing prison with her sister & he has a bounty to collect for her capture.
Will they stay slaves to the fates the empire has bound them in, or find a path that leads to freedom?
Spice • None
Language • None
Considerations • Death by fire, loss of limbs, human trafficking
Positives • Loyalty & principle over fear, dignity even in suffering, love as the supreme ethic, trusting the path will unfold as you move forward with confidence to take the first step
This book felt like Studio Ghibli & Kpop Demon Hunters did a dark frozen crossover in historical Japan and I LOVED it!
Kira is a courageous & principled heroine, Renjiro a handsome & morally conflicted monster hunter. She is fleeing prison with her sister & he has a bounty to collect for her capture.
Will they stay slaves to the fates the empire has bound them in, or find a path that leads to freedom?
Spice • None
Language • None
Considerations • Death by fire, loss of limbs, human trafficking
Positives • Loyalty & principle over fear, dignity even in suffering, love as the supreme ethic, trusting the path will unfold as you move forward with confidence to take the first step
October 8, 2025
The Last Wayfinder is yet another incredible story by Ellen McGinty!
Darkness and curses have abounded in Kira's life for years--ever since she was born into a prison for reasons unknown. Yet when an accident curses her sister, Kira enters a fight for hope and light like she never has before.
McGinty has woven sisterly love, hope, and courage into this story while the characters face seemingly impossible odds, and as a reader, it leaves me breathless. It's a wonderful reminder that darkness is not the end, but that we can push forward to find light once again. I highly recommend this story to lovers of fantasy!
Darkness and curses have abounded in Kira's life for years--ever since she was born into a prison for reasons unknown. Yet when an accident curses her sister, Kira enters a fight for hope and light like she never has before.
McGinty has woven sisterly love, hope, and courage into this story while the characters face seemingly impossible odds, and as a reader, it leaves me breathless. It's a wonderful reminder that darkness is not the end, but that we can push forward to find light once again. I highly recommend this story to lovers of fantasy!
January 14, 2026
This was my first story by this author and it was fantastic! I really enjoy fantasies that have some real world cultural ties or backgrounds. I loved the Japanese vibes and the historical notes at the end.
This story's focus was more on the sisterly bond than on the romance, but I think that it made the story sweeter. The romance part was more subtle than most fantasies that have a romance subplot in it, and the trope feels "enemies to more" rather than "enemies to lovers". These elements made it a better story in my humble opinion, and a story I would let my 14.5 year old daughter read.
This story's focus was more on the sisterly bond than on the romance, but I think that it made the story sweeter. The romance part was more subtle than most fantasies that have a romance subplot in it, and the trope feels "enemies to more" rather than "enemies to lovers". These elements made it a better story in my humble opinion, and a story I would let my 14.5 year old daughter read.
January 30, 2026
The Last Way finder was a gripping read. The prologue immediately pulled me in to this icy dark world that searches for hope. I love the banter, the world building and smooth prose. The actions scenes were intense and the finale had some epic twists. The slow burn romance is well-done, and there is a brutal scene that just tears your heart out! A must read for any fantasy lovers especially those who enjoy a Japan inspired world. Looking forward to the next book!
February 23, 2026
I really wanted to like this because I loved Saints and Monsters, but I struggled to finish this one. I'm not sure exactly why I couldn't connect with these characters. I kept wondering how they were connected to the first book. Maybe something in the beginning to set the stage letting us know a couple of decades have passed would have helped. It wasn't horrible, but not as good as the first book. I'm hoping for better in the next one.
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