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Brilliant Darkness #3
The Fire Sisters
Read the final book in the bestselling Brilliant Darkness series! Fennel and Peree are finally together and safe from the Scourge in the protected village of Koolkuna. But on the day of their partnering ceremony the children of the village are stolen away--Fenn's loyal companion, Kora, among them.
Fenn wants to bring the children home, especially as the villagers seem to blame Peree and her for the tragedy. Only since the death of her own family, she's terrified a wrong move on her part will lead to the loss of others she loves.
Fenn and Peree join a small search party led by rival Kaiya, the one person who stands a chance of finding the children thanks to her mysterious past. As they travel away from the safe waters of Koolkuna and into the Scourge-infested wilds, Fenn endures Kai's scorn, her subtle designs on Peree, and the squabbling of the group. But nothing in her life so far has prepared her for the fierce warrior women who will steal others' children to preserve their own existence--the Fire Sisters.
If Fenn is to survive the threat of the Scourge, rescue the children from the Sisters, and have a hope of making a life with Peree in Koolkuna, she must face her fear of failure and loss and become the leader she's destined to be.
The Fire Sisters is the thrilling conclusion to the bestselling Brilliant Darkness series. Three novels and two short stories complete series.
Recommended series reading
The ScourgeThe A Brilliant Darkness StoryThe DefianceThe A Brilliant Darkness StoryThe Fire Sisters
Fenn wants to bring the children home, especially as the villagers seem to blame Peree and her for the tragedy. Only since the death of her own family, she's terrified a wrong move on her part will lead to the loss of others she loves.
Fenn and Peree join a small search party led by rival Kaiya, the one person who stands a chance of finding the children thanks to her mysterious past. As they travel away from the safe waters of Koolkuna and into the Scourge-infested wilds, Fenn endures Kai's scorn, her subtle designs on Peree, and the squabbling of the group. But nothing in her life so far has prepared her for the fierce warrior women who will steal others' children to preserve their own existence--the Fire Sisters.
If Fenn is to survive the threat of the Scourge, rescue the children from the Sisters, and have a hope of making a life with Peree in Koolkuna, she must face her fear of failure and loss and become the leader she's destined to be.
The Fire Sisters is the thrilling conclusion to the bestselling Brilliant Darkness series. Three novels and two short stories complete series.
Recommended series reading
The ScourgeThe A Brilliant Darkness StoryThe DefianceThe A Brilliant Darkness StoryThe Fire Sisters
256 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 25, 2015
33 people are currently reading
398 people want to read
About the author
A.G. Henley
21 books441 followersA.G. Henley is a USA Today bestselling author of contemporary and fantasy books and stories, including the Love & Pets adult romantic comedy series. The first book in her young adult Brilliant Darkness series, THE SCOURGE, was a Library Journal Self-e Selection and a Next Generation Indie Book Award finalist. She’s also a clinical psychologist, but she promises not to analyze you... much.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 39 reviews
May 26, 2020
Well this was a good add to the series but i feel like it's not the end more can be added if need be. I like the fact that every group within this world believe that they are basically alone. i liked the way that they tried to change thier minds on how they saw the world and started the tentative task of making an allience. It seems like no-one in this world can have an easy or safe life for long.
February 24, 2017
Great ending to the series. Fennel was strong in her own vulnerable way and I loved Peree more and more with each kiss they shared. I didn't like how the issue in this book kind of had an easy fix, but I'm happy everything turned out ok. Kai and Moray got on my damn nerves with their arrogance and selfishness. And of course, I loved the end, or beginning rather, of Fenn and Peree's love story.
January 17, 2018
And it is done! I have officially finished this fantastic series!
Wow, I have loved this series from the start, there was so much going on in one novel. And it just keeps building and building to the end! I'm so happy to have finished but why does it feel so incomplete?
As we read in the previous novel, we are left with a cliffhanger! Thankfully it starts off right where we left off. Before the highly anticipated wedding occurs the children are kidnapped by the Fire Sisters. Rapid questions and demands occur as soon as this happens. Who are the Fire Sisters, why do they want the children, why didn't the children scream, where are they taking them, will they ever return, who will find them in time, or will they perish away? So many unanswered questions, so the suspense is major in this novel!
But thanks to the previous novella, "The Gatherer" we get a glimpse of who the Fire Sisters are and what happened to Kai when she was with them.
So, Kai is their only hope to rescue the children but she is feared by most of her community. Fenn wants to take action in making decisions, but every decision she has made, has lead to a loved one being hurt and lost to her. She cannot afford to lose Peree or anyone else. But as desperate times are lived, she must be the leader she is known to be, but will she have the strength to do it ?
In this journey, we go with Fenn and watch her fears with her, her determination to do what is right for all, her jealousy for Kai's obvious flirtation with Peree, her anger, stubbornness, gentleness, insecurities, it's a roller coaster ride of emotions for Fenn. Yet it was all execute well and I loved every moment that was shared and expressed.
I just really wish there was more to this series, will there be another novel ? We will have to wish for it, hopefully. I mean what happens to Frost and her baby, who does she stay with? What happens to the Fire Sisters, to Alev?
The story feels so right yet so incomplete at the same time. Nevertheless, I loved this series! Loved it and I cannot wait to read more of this author!
Received a copy from the author herself, in exchange for an honest review, thank you!
Wow, I have loved this series from the start, there was so much going on in one novel. And it just keeps building and building to the end! I'm so happy to have finished but why does it feel so incomplete?
As we read in the previous novel, we are left with a cliffhanger! Thankfully it starts off right where we left off. Before the highly anticipated wedding occurs the children are kidnapped by the Fire Sisters. Rapid questions and demands occur as soon as this happens. Who are the Fire Sisters, why do they want the children, why didn't the children scream, where are they taking them, will they ever return, who will find them in time, or will they perish away? So many unanswered questions, so the suspense is major in this novel!
But thanks to the previous novella, "The Gatherer" we get a glimpse of who the Fire Sisters are and what happened to Kai when she was with them.
So, Kai is their only hope to rescue the children but she is feared by most of her community. Fenn wants to take action in making decisions, but every decision she has made, has lead to a loved one being hurt and lost to her. She cannot afford to lose Peree or anyone else. But as desperate times are lived, she must be the leader she is known to be, but will she have the strength to do it ?
In this journey, we go with Fenn and watch her fears with her, her determination to do what is right for all, her jealousy for Kai's obvious flirtation with Peree, her anger, stubbornness, gentleness, insecurities, it's a roller coaster ride of emotions for Fenn. Yet it was all execute well and I loved every moment that was shared and expressed.
I just really wish there was more to this series, will there be another novel ? We will have to wish for it, hopefully. I mean what happens to Frost and her baby, who does she stay with? What happens to the Fire Sisters, to Alev?
The story feels so right yet so incomplete at the same time. Nevertheless, I loved this series! Loved it and I cannot wait to read more of this author!
Received a copy from the author herself, in exchange for an honest review, thank you!
November 12, 2015
I still think book one is my fave but this was a great conclusion to a great series!
August 30, 2019
A happy ending to an interesting story.
October 25, 2022
https://celebrityreaders.com/2022/10/...
4.5 stars — Okay, I will admit that I remember feeling pretty satisfied until the twist at the very end of Defiance, and thinking that Fenn and Peree didn’t need another book. But after reading The Gatherer short story (highly recommend before reading this one), and having just finished the story, I will admit that it feels necessary now. The conclusion I had was good, but there were still loose ends and growth left for Fenn to do, and I got that from this book.
At the end of the second book, Fenn is consumed by her grief, and she feels shaky and uncertain about the future. She loves Peree, but she can’t get past all the things that have happened to her. In this book she gets time, and a set of circumstances that help her work through her grief and grow into the leader that everyone else but her knows she truly is. She is Miri, she is the star to lead her people. It takes encounters with all sorts of characters for her to get to that place, but it’s so satisfying and believable when she does get there.
I will admit, part of the reason I’m rounding down instead of up is that I didn’t get as much time with Peree as I might have liked…or at least time with just the two of them. But that’s just me being greedy.
And it wasn’t just Fenn that got some much needed resolution to their story. Even if the stories are left a bit open ended, I felt like some crucial characters are at a better place in their life journey at the end of this story, and I can see how their path might move forward. Yes, I’m being cryptic on purpose.
All in all, this was a very satisfying ending that I wasn’t sure I needed, but now know I definitely did. And it just makes me want to go back to the beginning and reread it all. I can see it making it to my fave rereads list when I need a pick me up.
As always, Emily Woo Zeller did an absolutely fantastic job with the narration. I think this story, in particular, I love LISTENING to…it makes me feel closer to Fennel. It makes me notice the things that are described, the different voices, just so much about what her experience must have been like. And Ms. Zeller is so great with emotions, pacing, and distinctive voices. I can’t imagine doing anything other than listening to it.
4.5 stars — Okay, I will admit that I remember feeling pretty satisfied until the twist at the very end of Defiance, and thinking that Fenn and Peree didn’t need another book. But after reading The Gatherer short story (highly recommend before reading this one), and having just finished the story, I will admit that it feels necessary now. The conclusion I had was good, but there were still loose ends and growth left for Fenn to do, and I got that from this book.
At the end of the second book, Fenn is consumed by her grief, and she feels shaky and uncertain about the future. She loves Peree, but she can’t get past all the things that have happened to her. In this book she gets time, and a set of circumstances that help her work through her grief and grow into the leader that everyone else but her knows she truly is. She is Miri, she is the star to lead her people. It takes encounters with all sorts of characters for her to get to that place, but it’s so satisfying and believable when she does get there.
I will admit, part of the reason I’m rounding down instead of up is that I didn’t get as much time with Peree as I might have liked…or at least time with just the two of them. But that’s just me being greedy.
And it wasn’t just Fenn that got some much needed resolution to their story. Even if the stories are left a bit open ended, I felt like some crucial characters are at a better place in their life journey at the end of this story, and I can see how their path might move forward. Yes, I’m being cryptic on purpose.
All in all, this was a very satisfying ending that I wasn’t sure I needed, but now know I definitely did. And it just makes me want to go back to the beginning and reread it all. I can see it making it to my fave rereads list when I need a pick me up.
As always, Emily Woo Zeller did an absolutely fantastic job with the narration. I think this story, in particular, I love LISTENING to…it makes me feel closer to Fennel. It makes me notice the things that are described, the different voices, just so much about what her experience must have been like. And Ms. Zeller is so great with emotions, pacing, and distinctive voices. I can’t imagine doing anything other than listening to it.
September 22, 2015
In this final book in the Brilliant Darkness series, it opens with Fenn and Peree about to get married, and then everything goes wrong. The children of Koolkuna are stolen away by the Fire Sisters, a group of females who live in a mountain fortress. Fenn, Peree, Kai, and others leave on a journey to go get the children back.
This was a real page turner and easy read for me. There was so much I loved about this book: Fenn's growth as a leader, Kai's secrets and eventual heroism and friendship, the journey through forest and tree tops, the challenge Fenn's group presented to the Fire Sisters, the plans to escape with the children, and more. There is so much tied back to the first two books where we see familiar characters and then see them grow into something great. And of course the mythology continues...the sickness, the runa, and even an underground society (though we don't see much of them). There were so many great themes here... what it means to be a leader, what friendship is all about, and what family would sacrifice for their loved ones, what the Fire Sisters must confront with a changing world.
This was a great conclusion for me and I really enjoyed it. My only gripe is that this is the end...I really wished the world was explored in more books...like will the world ever be free of the sickness and rebuild, what will happen to the sick ones, more about the underground people, what the future of the Fire Sisters is like, etc. But I'm so glad I got to read this and it is one of my new favorites.This review was originally posted on MichaelSciFan
This was a real page turner and easy read for me. There was so much I loved about this book: Fenn's growth as a leader, Kai's secrets and eventual heroism and friendship, the journey through forest and tree tops, the challenge Fenn's group presented to the Fire Sisters, the plans to escape with the children, and more. There is so much tied back to the first two books where we see familiar characters and then see them grow into something great. And of course the mythology continues...the sickness, the runa, and even an underground society (though we don't see much of them). There were so many great themes here... what it means to be a leader, what friendship is all about, and what family would sacrifice for their loved ones, what the Fire Sisters must confront with a changing world.
This was a great conclusion for me and I really enjoyed it. My only gripe is that this is the end...I really wished the world was explored in more books...like will the world ever be free of the sickness and rebuild, what will happen to the sick ones, more about the underground people, what the future of the Fire Sisters is like, etc. But I'm so glad I got to read this and it is one of my new favorites.This review was originally posted on MichaelSciFan
December 23, 2015
This was more like 3.5 but I rounded up since I like this series. I thought this book was lacking in adventure. It was wrapped up nicely with a little bow.
September 9, 2019
Book 2 ends on a happy note .. Peree and Fennel at their joining ceremony. Happily ever after ... except that the first chapter of this book was included, so my little peek showed me that the wedding didn't happen. Several children have been kidnapped (including Kora and Thrush). This sets up the story for Book 3.
It was a bit frustrating to have our happy ending disrupted for more hardship. We'd lost some prime and loved characters in the first two books, so I was a little afraid of what might happen here. The Fire Sisters and their community was an interesting addition. In book 1, this world seems such a simple hunter/gather society with the groundlings/lofties. There had been no indication of other groups existing. Of course once Fennel finds the Hidden Waters, we know there is another ... and here in book 3, we hear of the Fire Sisters and the Ants and even more groups surviving and creating their own unique communities.
In some ways, I felt this storyline (once introduced) went along as expected. Spoiler I mean there is more to the story, but that's really the gist of this installment.
Sometimes, especially with the final book of a series, it's harder to focus on the single book, rather than the series as a whole. I liked this series a lot and will remember it fondly. I read the first book twice. I got a Kindle copy for free several years ago, but didn't get around to the sequels (I'm cheap and can't justify buying books when I have so many free ones in my Kindle Cloud and library list). On a KindleUnlimited deal (where the books were free) my interest was back up. I was able to buy the audible for just $2 for the first book, and thought that would be good for a re-read. The 2nd and 3rd book were available at a discounted audible rate ($7.50) but again, I struggle to pay when I have so many available to me already for free. So I read the Kindle copy (on unlimited) of the two sequels. If the audible had been on KU (or discounted to the $2) I would have loved to take advantage of that! Good narrator, and I think I would have enjoyed the books more (I just don't have the time for reading that I do with listening, so the sequels seemed to drag a bit, just because it took me longer to get through them).
I REALLY LIKED the three covers - consistency between them, and they stood out individually well. I know, don't judge a book by its cover ... but we all do, don't we?
The scourge, the sick ones, wailers ... I still didn't quite get them.
It was a bit frustrating to have our happy ending disrupted for more hardship. We'd lost some prime and loved characters in the first two books, so I was a little afraid of what might happen here. The Fire Sisters and their community was an interesting addition. In book 1, this world seems such a simple hunter/gather society with the groundlings/lofties. There had been no indication of other groups existing. Of course once Fennel finds the Hidden Waters, we know there is another ... and here in book 3, we hear of the Fire Sisters and the Ants and even more groups surviving and creating their own unique communities.
In some ways, I felt this storyline (once introduced) went along as expected. Spoiler I mean there is more to the story, but that's really the gist of this installment.
Sometimes, especially with the final book of a series, it's harder to focus on the single book, rather than the series as a whole. I liked this series a lot and will remember it fondly. I read the first book twice. I got a Kindle copy for free several years ago, but didn't get around to the sequels (I'm cheap and can't justify buying books when I have so many free ones in my Kindle Cloud and library list). On a KindleUnlimited deal (where the books were free) my interest was back up. I was able to buy the audible for just $2 for the first book, and thought that would be good for a re-read. The 2nd and 3rd book were available at a discounted audible rate ($7.50) but again, I struggle to pay when I have so many available to me already for free. So I read the Kindle copy (on unlimited) of the two sequels. If the audible had been on KU (or discounted to the $2) I would have loved to take advantage of that! Good narrator, and I think I would have enjoyed the books more (I just don't have the time for reading that I do with listening, so the sequels seemed to drag a bit, just because it took me longer to get through them).
I REALLY LIKED the three covers - consistency between them, and they stood out individually well. I know, don't judge a book by its cover ... but we all do, don't we?
The scourge, the sick ones, wailers ... I still didn't quite get them.
April 7, 2023
This book kept me reading until late into the night. I love the main characters, and I really enjoyed spending time with them.
I was a little frustrated that the events at the beginning of the novel were not completed before the disruption of the complication, but we got there in the end. I also thought that the potential love triangle was handled sensitively, and not played up for drama. I can completely understand Kai having feelings for Peree, and having no boundaries about expressing that, but I loved how mature Fennel was in dealing with the situations that arose regarding that. Her trust in Peree was really beautiful.
It was nice to see Fennel stepping up at the end of the book, and I kind of wish there were more books in the series.
I was a little frustrated that the events at the beginning of the novel were not completed before the disruption of the complication, but we got there in the end. I also thought that the potential love triangle was handled sensitively, and not played up for drama. I can completely understand Kai having feelings for Peree, and having no boundaries about expressing that, but I loved how mature Fennel was in dealing with the situations that arose regarding that. Her trust in Peree was really beautiful.
It was nice to see Fennel stepping up at the end of the book, and I kind of wish there were more books in the series.
July 16, 2018
So good I bought the 2nd and 3rd ones!
I got the first book free on BookBub or FreeBooksy - can't exactly remember which! - and read it in one sitting. I then bought the next 2 as I NEEDED to know what happened to all the characters, some lovable, some horrible, some eho started horrible then ended up (almost) lovable! Very well written, so much so that I felt totally immersed in the stories, as if I was actually there. I will have to read more of this author's writings.
I got the first book free on BookBub or FreeBooksy - can't exactly remember which! - and read it in one sitting. I then bought the next 2 as I NEEDED to know what happened to all the characters, some lovable, some horrible, some eho started horrible then ended up (almost) lovable! Very well written, so much so that I felt totally immersed in the stories, as if I was actually there. I will have to read more of this author's writings.
July 30, 2020
It’s good to be behind
I just realized this series started in 2012! Clearly, I was really late to the Brilliant Darkness party. But the saying, “better late than never” holds true here. In fact, I’m glad I was behind because when you come across an excellent series, it’s fantastic to be able to finish one book and immediately start the next one. What are you waiting for? You will always be welcome on the side of Brilliant Darkness.
I just realized this series started in 2012! Clearly, I was really late to the Brilliant Darkness party. But the saying, “better late than never” holds true here. In fact, I’m glad I was behind because when you come across an excellent series, it’s fantastic to be able to finish one book and immediately start the next one. What are you waiting for? You will always be welcome on the side of Brilliant Darkness.
June 17, 2017
This is the last book in a trilogy. The author left room for more books, as this is a world that can be revisited easily. This is a young-adult series that is generally well-written (a few errors could have been picked up by a copywriter or a proofreader; for example, "I could care less," and the improper use of the word "nocturnal").
An enjoyable, light read with decent world-building.
An enjoyable, light read with decent world-building.
March 4, 2021
Wow, this book was the scary one! I didn’t know how it was going to end at all, the fear and suspense are huge. Ive stayed up till late so I could read all of the books in this series just to find our what happens next because I really needed to know. Lethal new characters bring heartache in this one, but the ending is very and joyous. This is a wonderful series to cherish and remember fondly.
October 16, 2020
Wow! I didn’t think Fennel could go on another adventure as intense as the first one. But holy cow. I really had no idea how they would get the kids back, but I’m amazed how entertaining this adventure was.
July 10, 2018
a good ending to the series. and i totally want to be a fire sister.
January 19, 2025
This book didn’t quite pull my heart strings the ways the other two did, but I still loved it and would definitely recommend this series!
October 5, 2015
Find this review and more on my book blog, The Araliya Bookshelf!
I loved the previous two books of The Brilliant Darkness series, although, if I had it my way, it would've ended with Book #2, Peree and Fenn happily bonded, with a nice neat epilogue where we get to meet their kids. But unfortunately, since the world actually does NOT happen to be a wish-granting factory, I will have to be satisfied with this thrilling conclusion to a great series.
What I Loved
The characters. SO WELL DEVELOPED. I loved how Fenn changed so much from the first book, becoming a great leader, forging a strong relationship with Peree, and becoming so much stronger as a character. Her leadership skills really show up in this book, and I loved her strength.
Peree, unfortunately, was not very important to this book. I was a teensy bit disappointed because, come one, WE NEED MORE PEREE. But in a way, it was also fabulous because while I really enjoyed the way Peree and Fenn;s relationship strengthened their characters, I also love how Fenn began to develop on her own.
Plus, Peree was so sweet and supportive in this book that I can overlook it.
Now, Kai was a character who I really liked finding more about. At first, her constant jealousy, stubbornness and overall unreasonableness (wow, is that actually a word? That wavy red line isn't appearing under it. Must be a word) . But we do get to see her backstory, and although i don't like any more than I did at first, at least a kind of understand her hostility now. Kind of.
The plot. Okay, so like I said, this installment of the series is totally unnecessary. All the conflict that surrounded the first two books was not present in this one, because it was resolved what feels like ages ago in the previous books. The Fire Sisters takes on a completely new plotline, and kind of feels like it was mostly written to find out more about Kai and see more of Fenn's character development rather than extend the plot and conflict of the earlier books.
I didn't like the fact that the plotline was so different, but that didn't stop me from liking the storyline itself.
The Fire Sisters and the action. The Sisters were pretty awesome, and I loved their Amazonian society. They were pretty fierce and stubborn, and I thought this book had a good, balanced action. The Sisters did kind of annoy me with their obstinacy and their absolute refusal to see things in any way except theirs, but they kind of had my respect because they were so strong and THEY HAD A MATRIARCHAL SOCIETY WHICH I HAVE NEVER READ ABOUT.
What Could've Been Better
The romance. Okay, now I'm all for YA books that feature little to no romance, but since both The Scourge and The Defiance were so focused on the romance, I was expecting WAY more Fenn/Peree moments than what I got. I wanted heart-melting scenes that gave me all the feels, just like in the first two books, and all I got was...this. I'm a teeny bit disappointed.
The pacing. I don't what it was about The Fire Sisters, but sometimes I felt that things needed to be moving a little faster than they were. I was slightly bored at places, just waiting for the characters to stop talking so much and do something!
Overall
The Fire Sisters was a satisfying conclusion to The Brilliant Darkness trilogy, and while it wasn't all that I was expecting, I still enjoyed it very much. I loved meeting all the characters again, and while I would have liked a bit more Fenn/Peree, there was still plenty of action and intrigue.
I loved the previous two books of The Brilliant Darkness series, although, if I had it my way, it would've ended with Book #2, Peree and Fenn happily bonded, with a nice neat epilogue where we get to meet their kids. But unfortunately, since the world actually does NOT happen to be a wish-granting factory, I will have to be satisfied with this thrilling conclusion to a great series.
What I Loved
The characters. SO WELL DEVELOPED. I loved how Fenn changed so much from the first book, becoming a great leader, forging a strong relationship with Peree, and becoming so much stronger as a character. Her leadership skills really show up in this book, and I loved her strength.
Peree, unfortunately, was not very important to this book. I was a teensy bit disappointed because, come one, WE NEED MORE PEREE. But in a way, it was also fabulous because while I really enjoyed the way Peree and Fenn;s relationship strengthened their characters, I also love how Fenn began to develop on her own.
Plus, Peree was so sweet and supportive in this book that I can overlook it.
Now, Kai was a character who I really liked finding more about. At first, her constant jealousy, stubbornness and overall unreasonableness (wow, is that actually a word? That wavy red line isn't appearing under it. Must be a word) . But we do get to see her backstory, and although i don't like any more than I did at first, at least a kind of understand her hostility now. Kind of.
The plot. Okay, so like I said, this installment of the series is totally unnecessary. All the conflict that surrounded the first two books was not present in this one, because it was resolved what feels like ages ago in the previous books. The Fire Sisters takes on a completely new plotline, and kind of feels like it was mostly written to find out more about Kai and see more of Fenn's character development rather than extend the plot and conflict of the earlier books.
I didn't like the fact that the plotline was so different, but that didn't stop me from liking the storyline itself.
The Fire Sisters and the action. The Sisters were pretty awesome, and I loved their Amazonian society. They were pretty fierce and stubborn, and I thought this book had a good, balanced action. The Sisters did kind of annoy me with their obstinacy and their absolute refusal to see things in any way except theirs, but they kind of had my respect because they were so strong and THEY HAD A MATRIARCHAL SOCIETY WHICH I HAVE NEVER READ ABOUT.
What Could've Been Better
The romance. Okay, now I'm all for YA books that feature little to no romance, but since both The Scourge and The Defiance were so focused on the romance, I was expecting WAY more Fenn/Peree moments than what I got. I wanted heart-melting scenes that gave me all the feels, just like in the first two books, and all I got was...this. I'm a teeny bit disappointed.
The pacing. I don't what it was about The Fire Sisters, but sometimes I felt that things needed to be moving a little faster than they were. I was slightly bored at places, just waiting for the characters to stop talking so much and do something!
Overall
The Fire Sisters was a satisfying conclusion to The Brilliant Darkness trilogy, and while it wasn't all that I was expecting, I still enjoyed it very much. I loved meeting all the characters again, and while I would have liked a bit more Fenn/Peree, there was still plenty of action and intrigue.
October 7, 2015
I re-read the other two books in the series before I started this one, and I'm glad I did. I think I needed to immerse myself in the world again and re-familiarize myself with the characters before I started this journey.
I liked (i)The Fire Sisters(/i). It was a satisfying end to the trilogy, and I'm glad the author took her time to finish the story in a thoughtful and consistent way.
One more thing before I get to the spoilers: I'm not usually one to compare books, but I think this trilogy deserves at least as much love (if not HEAPS more) than (i)The Selection Series(/i). Better characters, better story, better writing. Get it together, world.
Ok, on to the spoilers.
I thought Moray and his lovesick brother deserved a little more exposition at the end there. They just kind of went along with Fenn's plan- which is totally great- but I would have loved a little more information as to why. How could they just leave the person they both came to retrieve (as pigheaded and determined as they are)? Also, I thought that at some point we were going to hear about how Moray was in love with Fennel all this time, because in his own twisted half five-year-old half frat-boy way, he totally acted like it. I guess I am supposed to attribute his latest words and actions to her remarkable leadership skills, but it felt different to me. Also, his name makes me want to make up new verses to "That's Amore." Ahem. "When your thrown in a pit and you can't exit it, that'sa Moray. When your crushed to the ground and you can't make a sound, that'sa Moray." I digress.
I have to admit that I scoffed at first when Fennel, the BLIND girl, volunteered to go on a rescue mission to uncharted territory and everyone was totally okay with it. Nobody said "You will slow us down!" or, "Why should you go? None of your relatives were taken" or, "Those trained assassins will totally kill you. I care about you, you shouldn't go." I thought she might have to weigh the pros and cons of going, or maybe convince others. But hey, this is fiction and we have to suspend our disbelief a little. I love that our heroine is a blind girl, so I can give a little license.
I also have to admit that I just KNEW that our heroes inside the compound were going to use that wasp venom against the Fire Sisters in some way. I thought it was such an obvious choice. In my eyes it was the gun introduced in act one that must be fired by the end of the play. As the story went on I thought that maybe it would be more unexpected than I anticipated: that a sympathetic Sister would use it against her own to help Fenn and her posse escape. Nope. They set the wasps free instead. Huh. I have to say, there were a lot of things in the book I didn't expect. But I'm sad that nobody even thought to use that mind control business against the Sisters in the plot to escape. Especially when they stumbled upon the hive. Oh well, it all turned out for the best.
One more little gripe: I'm a little disappointed at the lack of communication between Fennel and Peree about Kai. I think Fenn should have said "This bothers me. Show me you respect me please by trying to stay away from this girl who is throwing herself at you." And it would have been nice if Peree didn't get himself into situations where Kai could "make her intensions known" and go to her side when she was very obviously flirting with him. I get that they are confident in each other's love, but come on! Respect.
All said, this was a great story and a fun read. I totally recommend the whole trilogy. And I want my friends to read it so I can talk about it with an actual human. Get on it!
I liked (i)The Fire Sisters(/i). It was a satisfying end to the trilogy, and I'm glad the author took her time to finish the story in a thoughtful and consistent way.
One more thing before I get to the spoilers: I'm not usually one to compare books, but I think this trilogy deserves at least as much love (if not HEAPS more) than (i)The Selection Series(/i). Better characters, better story, better writing. Get it together, world.
Ok, on to the spoilers.
I thought Moray and his lovesick brother deserved a little more exposition at the end there. They just kind of went along with Fenn's plan- which is totally great- but I would have loved a little more information as to why. How could they just leave the person they both came to retrieve (as pigheaded and determined as they are)? Also, I thought that at some point we were going to hear about how Moray was in love with Fennel all this time, because in his own twisted half five-year-old half frat-boy way, he totally acted like it. I guess I am supposed to attribute his latest words and actions to her remarkable leadership skills, but it felt different to me. Also, his name makes me want to make up new verses to "That's Amore." Ahem. "When your thrown in a pit and you can't exit it, that'sa Moray. When your crushed to the ground and you can't make a sound, that'sa Moray." I digress.
I have to admit that I scoffed at first when Fennel, the BLIND girl, volunteered to go on a rescue mission to uncharted territory and everyone was totally okay with it. Nobody said "You will slow us down!" or, "Why should you go? None of your relatives were taken" or, "Those trained assassins will totally kill you. I care about you, you shouldn't go." I thought she might have to weigh the pros and cons of going, or maybe convince others. But hey, this is fiction and we have to suspend our disbelief a little. I love that our heroine is a blind girl, so I can give a little license.
I also have to admit that I just KNEW that our heroes inside the compound were going to use that wasp venom against the Fire Sisters in some way. I thought it was such an obvious choice. In my eyes it was the gun introduced in act one that must be fired by the end of the play. As the story went on I thought that maybe it would be more unexpected than I anticipated: that a sympathetic Sister would use it against her own to help Fenn and her posse escape. Nope. They set the wasps free instead. Huh. I have to say, there were a lot of things in the book I didn't expect. But I'm sad that nobody even thought to use that mind control business against the Sisters in the plot to escape. Especially when they stumbled upon the hive. Oh well, it all turned out for the best.
One more little gripe: I'm a little disappointed at the lack of communication between Fennel and Peree about Kai. I think Fenn should have said "This bothers me. Show me you respect me please by trying to stay away from this girl who is throwing herself at you." And it would have been nice if Peree didn't get himself into situations where Kai could "make her intensions known" and go to her side when she was very obviously flirting with him. I get that they are confident in each other's love, but come on! Respect.
All said, this was a great story and a fun read. I totally recommend the whole trilogy. And I want my friends to read it so I can talk about it with an actual human. Get on it!
September 25, 2015
Wow! What an ending to a fabulous series! It has been quite an exciting ride in the Brilliant Darkness series with the main characters facing many obstacles and dangers. The Fire Sisters is no exception! A.G. Henley has brought us another riveting chapter in this dystopian tale. I was on the edge of my seat waiting to see what happened next! I started reading and I just couldn’t put it down. The Fire Sisters brings us excitement, love, doubt, danger and so much more! Oh, and there is zombies, but they are not your run of the mill zombies. So I would recommend this book even to readers who do not care for zombies.
I just love how this story goes to show that there is more to people than meets the eye and there is more than one way to solve a problem. I am glad that not all the characters are easy to figure out as well. Some had me guessing the whole time.
A.G. Henley brings the story to life through her words and made me feel like I was there. There was just enough detail to paint a clear picture of it all and to draw me into their world. I feel The Fire Sisters is a must read, but it you haven’t read the rest of the series start with book 1 The Scourge. I can’t wait to see what she comes up with next.
Fennel and Peree big day has finally arrived, but before they can finish their partnering ceremony tragedy strikes! The children have been stolen away by a fierce group called The Fire Sisters! Now the search is on. They must now travel into the dangerous unknown to retrieve their treasured guru (children) before it is too late. They run into trouble along the way and find help in the most unlikely places. Sacrifices will have to be made and lines will be crossed. Will they find the children in time? Will Fennel and Peree ever get their happily ever after? Or is it The End?
I just love how this story goes to show that there is more to people than meets the eye and there is more than one way to solve a problem. I am glad that not all the characters are easy to figure out as well. Some had me guessing the whole time.
A.G. Henley brings the story to life through her words and made me feel like I was there. There was just enough detail to paint a clear picture of it all and to draw me into their world. I feel The Fire Sisters is a must read, but it you haven’t read the rest of the series start with book 1 The Scourge. I can’t wait to see what she comes up with next.
Fennel and Peree big day has finally arrived, but before they can finish their partnering ceremony tragedy strikes! The children have been stolen away by a fierce group called The Fire Sisters! Now the search is on. They must now travel into the dangerous unknown to retrieve their treasured guru (children) before it is too late. They run into trouble along the way and find help in the most unlikely places. Sacrifices will have to be made and lines will be crossed. Will they find the children in time? Will Fennel and Peree ever get their happily ever after? Or is it The End?
May 19, 2016
I was eagerly anticipating the finale of this series. Maybe it was the hype or the sheer anticipation of it, but this book fell flat for me. While I found the first two books of this series interesting and page turning, I had a hard time finishing this one. The plot was too simple and boring. The first person pov grated on my nerves. Fennel sounded especially whiny and needy in this book. The drama/angst was a mere side note and merely added for the sake of it. It didn't really add any substance to the story. I find the premise of this book silly. A blind girl going on a rescue trip? Maybe too much time had passed between reading the second and third installment. I wish I like it more and had nicer things to say.
October 13, 2015
I don't like endings of a series. It is always bittersweet.
I loved watching Fenn grow and develop as a leader. I really appreciated A G Henley putting a less than perfect person (as we all are) as the main character and that she finds that someone loves her just the way she is. Fenn also gains respect from others and is very loving and helpful and overcomes a lot on a journey being blind.
Peree is just as wonderful loving Fenn and respecting her. He is extremely gentle with her and allows her to be herself and grow. I found myself teary eyed at the end.
This book is a great ending with lots of action, heartache, growing and lots of finding the best in every situation and overcoming so much adversity and situations. Made me think a lot!
I loved watching Fenn grow and develop as a leader. I really appreciated A G Henley putting a less than perfect person (as we all are) as the main character and that she finds that someone loves her just the way she is. Fenn also gains respect from others and is very loving and helpful and overcomes a lot on a journey being blind.
Peree is just as wonderful loving Fenn and respecting her. He is extremely gentle with her and allows her to be herself and grow. I found myself teary eyed at the end.
This book is a great ending with lots of action, heartache, growing and lots of finding the best in every situation and overcoming so much adversity and situations. Made me think a lot!
October 8, 2015
I love love love this series and The Fire Sisters was a perfect way to end them (with tears in my eyes might I add). AG Henley is an extremely mature and accomplished writer. Her characters are well developed and somehow contain a tangible reality and flaws to them. The plot isn't lacking either with more movement and adventure than I thought could happen realistically in the number of pages. The love story isn't one of fairy tales or overly sappy but is genuine and true. This series is hands down one of my top three favorites of all time. I've recommended them to numerous friends, all who have raved about them as much as I have. The author really strikes a cord with me somehow and I don't think it's just my personality or interests.
Looking forward to more stories from you, AG Henley!
Looking forward to more stories from you, AG Henley!
May 4, 2016
The third book in the trilogy, the story takes a 180 degree turn when some of the children are kidnapped by the Fire Sisters. Thus, begins a small group’s long journey including Fennel, Peree and Kaiya - the only one to have ever escaped years ago from being kidnapped and held by the Fire Sisters. They go through many obstacles in order to retrieve the children before they reach the Sisters’ fortified destination and fate. It was so different than the first two books and takes you on a different path than the first two, but with different life lessons and by the end it did wrap up most loose ends nicely.
December 28, 2017
The final book picked up the pace again. We are back with the Fire Sisters. Fenn and Peree's ceremony is interrupted by the taking of the children by the Fire Sisters. They follow them back to the Cloister. I am amazed at how Fenn gets about walking, climbing, and such with no eye sight. I would be terrified. We see Alev again as well as some of the other Sisters. Learning more about their group in this book helped me understand them better. The book concludes the story quite well and I enjoyed it. I received an ebook copy of the book for an honest review.
September 23, 2015
What an amazing ending to a great story. I have enjoyed following Fenn through her dangerous adventures and watching her grow.
The way Fenn thinks throughout the story is so real and relate-able I think every young girl should read this book. Actually, it would be a great book to read with your daughter.
Unlike many trilogies, I feel like the third book was just a good as the first. I look forward to future writings from A.G. Henley.
The way Fenn thinks throughout the story is so real and relate-able I think every young girl should read this book. Actually, it would be a great book to read with your daughter.
Unlike many trilogies, I feel like the third book was just a good as the first. I look forward to future writings from A.G. Henley.
September 11, 2016
The Fire Sisters -Brilliant Darkness BK 3
Like most great storytellers Henley gives many great morals throughout her book and that can be a hard thing to accomplish in a dystopian story. It doesn't lack in the post-apocalyptic markers, violence, destruction, and death. It also carries great strength, persistence, and rebuilding. In other words , it has something for everyone.
The editing is great as well!
Like most great storytellers Henley gives many great morals throughout her book and that can be a hard thing to accomplish in a dystopian story. It doesn't lack in the post-apocalyptic markers, violence, destruction, and death. It also carries great strength, persistence, and rebuilding. In other words , it has something for everyone.
The editing is great as well!
November 2, 2015
Finally
Kia's story is explained and we find out why she despises Fenn so much. We learn what is really behind the wall of fire and the new ideals Alev has been trying to persuade everyone to listen to.
And Finally...Fenn and beautiful Peree have their HEA. I wish there was a sequel though....I want them to have a baby.
Kia's story is explained and we find out why she despises Fenn so much. We learn what is really behind the wall of fire and the new ideals Alev has been trying to persuade everyone to listen to.
And Finally...Fenn and beautiful Peree have their HEA. I wish there was a sequel though....I want them to have a baby.
December 19, 2015
Excellent, as always
Loved this series. Henley does not disappoint with this finale. Main characters, as always, are awesome, but we also see the growth of many others, which was great to see in a conclusion, as there are no questions unanswered, except that of the future. Read the series. You won't be disappointed.
Loved this series. Henley does not disappoint with this finale. Main characters, as always, are awesome, but we also see the growth of many others, which was great to see in a conclusion, as there are no questions unanswered, except that of the future. Read the series. You won't be disappointed.
February 21, 2016
Strong finish to the series. Not as compelling as the first book, but better than the second. Pleasant writing style and thoughtful approach to character and story development. Served me well as something to read while riding my exercise bike. I expect that it would appeal to junior high and high school aged readers.
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