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The Fourline Trilogy #3
The Last Remnant
Following her forced departure from Fourline, Natalie Barns has been aching to rejoin the struggle to overthrow its evil dictator. With Soris and those she left behind constantly on her mind, Nat bides her time, determined to find a cure for the duozi—those infected by the terrifying Nala.
An unexpected discovery propels her back to those she has sworn to protect, but her reappearance in Fourline is anything but straightforward, particularly when familiar faces appear when least expected. Despite the warnings of her friends and the looming threat of the vengeful Nala queen, Nat joins the fight in Fourline, both in her mind as well as on the field of battle. Her decisions may salvage Fourline’s future but at the risk of her own horrifying fate.
An unexpected discovery propels her back to those she has sworn to protect, but her reappearance in Fourline is anything but straightforward, particularly when familiar faces appear when least expected. Despite the warnings of her friends and the looming threat of the vengeful Nala queen, Nat joins the fight in Fourline, both in her mind as well as on the field of battle. Her decisions may salvage Fourline’s future but at the risk of her own horrifying fate.
320 pages, Paperback
First published May 10, 2016
260 people are currently reading
860 people want to read
About the author
Pam Brondos
6 books170 followersPam Brondos is the author of The Fourline Trilogy and lives where the wind blows on a daily basis.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 135 reviews
May 22, 2016
I'm a little sad that this story is over. I really really enjoyed this trilogy, and I loved getting lost in the world of Fourline. This is definitely going to be one of those stories that I have to reread every now and then! I totally recommend you read these books! Like right now, just do it.
August 5, 2016
I thought with the first novel that Natalie would be an atypical YA heroine. But with the 2nd and 3rd she slips into annoying YA girl hero. She's super whiny (and we add her whiny sister), she makes really irrational decisions, she's go a serious martyr complex going on. She will take ridiculous risks (which backfire most of the time) but doesn't want anyone else to take any and the teen jealously/true love. I did want to find how it all wrapped up and liked the conclusion.
September 9, 2020
I can’t believe how quickly I tore through this audiobook! I’ve been loving the books in this trilogy so far and I wasn’t ready to leave Fourline yet so ventured into the final book. And it was amazing ! I didn’t want it to end.
This was the perfect finale to a great set of books. I absolutely loved the whole story and was eager to find out how it would conclude. It was just perfect and I enjoyed it massively! Going to be sad to leave Fourline but I enjoyed it so much whilst I was there. I grew to love characters I didn’t think I would and found the end it be a very fitting conclusion to the story.
Would definitely recommend a read or a listen if you came across these!
This was the perfect finale to a great set of books. I absolutely loved the whole story and was eager to find out how it would conclude. It was just perfect and I enjoyed it massively! Going to be sad to leave Fourline but I enjoyed it so much whilst I was there. I grew to love characters I didn’t think I would and found the end it be a very fitting conclusion to the story.
Would definitely recommend a read or a listen if you came across these!
December 22, 2020
Seriously Satisfying Concluding Book
Tons of surprising moments. Twists I didn't see coming. Even thought provoking moments. It was faster paced than the first two volumes. The wrap-up for most of the main characters was definitely well done. Four stars not five because I was not torn up that there was no more. But solid four stars because if there is more written I will definitely read it.
Tons of surprising moments. Twists I didn't see coming. Even thought provoking moments. It was faster paced than the first two volumes. The wrap-up for most of the main characters was definitely well done. Four stars not five because I was not torn up that there was no more. But solid four stars because if there is more written I will definitely read it.
April 15, 2017
LITERALLY yelling. I WEPT. This trilogy had me in tears. It's 1 am here and I stayed up to finish it. I'm in love with this series. I need MORE.
July 29, 2020
This is only a 2/5 stars because I finished it and some parts were interesting. It’s really a 1.5.
I don’t know if I’ve ever sped read like that before. If this wasn’t the third book, I wouldn’t have kept reading.
The first semester of whatever school year is done, so this is a few months after the events of the 2nd book. And Nat spends all her time working on a cure for the duozi, making me wonder how she even keeps her scholarship. Through that time, she is a petulant and immature disrespectful flipping child. From the start, I almost hoped she would end up being burned alive by the Nala.
I get it--she wants to find a cure. But she acts as if she’s the savior of the duozi and knows as much about Fourline as do its natives, and she doesn’t. She goes against the wishes of Annin, Ethet, and everyone else, and escapes into the world without much thought other than “I must save Soris.” He even comments on it, thinking her “love” for him is based solely in that savior mentality, that that’s all she cares about. She becomes snippy when people who know she may indeed have found a cure still say there will be duozi.
Natalie, you should know that just because something works in a lab doesn’t mean it’ll work with people.
Nat’s sister Cal ends up accidentally following her into Fourline and while that’s a good plot device to actually bring the sisters closer than they ever were (which isn’t terribly hard), Cal kind of...is just /there/ at times. She offers nothing except as a way for Nat to blow off steam and think things through.
Nat is grated by laughter of other people, is ready to get violent towards anyone in either world who stands in her way, and constantly puts herself in danger thinking she can fend for herself but is absolutely hypocritical and admonishes others for doing the same. I get it, we are all hypocritical. But when it’s pointed out to her, her immaturity grates on ME. “wah, it’s not the same, harrumph.”
At one point, Barba tells Nat her markings will give her away and the youth (yes, I’m calling her a youth, because she is in comparison and she certainly acts younger) rolls her eyes because she can hide the markings. Yeah, like sleeves don’t roll up. Yeesh.
Of course the duozi immediately attack and recognize her and she finds herself in precarious situations which she worsens for herself. In one, I don’t blame her as it makes sense, and that was one quite interesting part, especially with the scene she surrounded herself in in her dream space.
I love the libraries in the Sister House they all find themselves in.
One Sister tells Nat of the Predictions. While I don’t recall all the details having been provided before, I’m certain I knew that the Warrior markings on Nat meant that she is meant to destroy the Nala.
Nat is kidnapped and I’m glad she feels sympathy towards at least one of them, because I do too.
She gets nauseous at some murderous talk even though she’s participated in such violent acts. Make sense, lady.
She goes off and does things on her own, and then scoffs when people say her opinion matters.
And even through the end she wants to be on her own and do things on her own and has insane trouble accepting help for “her” issues when all she wants to do is fix others’ issues.
Benedict actually comes through which is nice.
People die who deserve it.
People die who don’t deserve it.
I don’t know if I’ve ever sped read like that before. If this wasn’t the third book, I wouldn’t have kept reading.
The first semester of whatever school year is done, so this is a few months after the events of the 2nd book. And Nat spends all her time working on a cure for the duozi, making me wonder how she even keeps her scholarship. Through that time, she is a petulant and immature disrespectful flipping child. From the start, I almost hoped she would end up being burned alive by the Nala.
I get it--she wants to find a cure. But she acts as if she’s the savior of the duozi and knows as much about Fourline as do its natives, and she doesn’t. She goes against the wishes of Annin, Ethet, and everyone else, and escapes into the world without much thought other than “I must save Soris.” He even comments on it, thinking her “love” for him is based solely in that savior mentality, that that’s all she cares about. She becomes snippy when people who know she may indeed have found a cure still say there will be duozi.
Natalie, you should know that just because something works in a lab doesn’t mean it’ll work with people.
Nat’s sister Cal ends up accidentally following her into Fourline and while that’s a good plot device to actually bring the sisters closer than they ever were (which isn’t terribly hard), Cal kind of...is just /there/ at times. She offers nothing except as a way for Nat to blow off steam and think things through.
Nat is grated by laughter of other people, is ready to get violent towards anyone in either world who stands in her way, and constantly puts herself in danger thinking she can fend for herself but is absolutely hypocritical and admonishes others for doing the same. I get it, we are all hypocritical. But when it’s pointed out to her, her immaturity grates on ME. “wah, it’s not the same, harrumph.”
At one point, Barba tells Nat her markings will give her away and the youth (yes, I’m calling her a youth, because she is in comparison and she certainly acts younger) rolls her eyes because she can hide the markings. Yeah, like sleeves don’t roll up. Yeesh.
Of course the duozi immediately attack and recognize her and she finds herself in precarious situations which she worsens for herself. In one, I don’t blame her as it makes sense, and that was one quite interesting part, especially with the scene she surrounded herself in in her dream space.
I love the libraries in the Sister House they all find themselves in.
One Sister tells Nat of the Predictions. While I don’t recall all the details having been provided before, I’m certain I knew that the Warrior markings on Nat meant that she is meant to destroy the Nala.
Nat is kidnapped and I’m glad she feels sympathy towards at least one of them, because I do too.
She gets nauseous at some murderous talk even though she’s participated in such violent acts. Make sense, lady.
She goes off and does things on her own, and then scoffs when people say her opinion matters.
And even through the end she wants to be on her own and do things on her own and has insane trouble accepting help for “her” issues when all she wants to do is fix others’ issues.
Benedict actually comes through which is nice.
People die who deserve it.
People die who don’t deserve it.
August 29, 2016
This third and final book was a satisfying conclusion to Natalie's adventures.
There were parts of the story and character development I really enjoyed and even a part or two that surprised me.
I also liked the focus of the story being brought back to Natalie's growth along with some added trials determining her relationship with Soris, Cal, and Fourline.
Another thing that was interesting to me was how Natalie has always been shown to embody multiple Sister qualities, such as her ability with plants and her moderating functions, though I'd say the max potential of this wasn't fully realized or utilized in the overall plotline, which is unfortunate.
However, I'm disappointed how heavily Brondos used telling over showing in her writing style, which was most present in this third book but also in the previous books. The book's audience is young, which may be why the writing is simple. Still, I also hold onto the hope for a lyrical quality to fantasy world based stories.
Overall, it's an interesting story that is cleanly organized and edited. If story and plot is your focus, you'll enjoy this trilogy, but don't expect complex language or particularly brilliant or mature characters. It's a light fantasy read to just sit back and enjoy.
There were parts of the story and character development I really enjoyed and even a part or two that surprised me.
I also liked the focus of the story being brought back to Natalie's growth along with some added trials determining her relationship with Soris, Cal, and Fourline.
Another thing that was interesting to me was how Natalie has always been shown to embody multiple Sister qualities, such as her ability with plants and her moderating functions, though I'd say the max potential of this wasn't fully realized or utilized in the overall plotline, which is unfortunate.
However, I'm disappointed how heavily Brondos used telling over showing in her writing style, which was most present in this third book but also in the previous books. The book's audience is young, which may be why the writing is simple. Still, I also hold onto the hope for a lyrical quality to fantasy world based stories.
Overall, it's an interesting story that is cleanly organized and edited. If story and plot is your focus, you'll enjoy this trilogy, but don't expect complex language or particularly brilliant or mature characters. It's a light fantasy read to just sit back and enjoy.
December 29, 2017
I’m so glad I committed to reading this trilogy to the end. The story, characters, and pacing get elevated to a new level here in book three. The first two books in the series captured and held my interest (for the most part) but book three refused to let go.
It’s taken some time for me to care enough about the characters and problems in Fourline, but within the first few chapters of The Last Remnant, that all changed for me. That said, I still don’t really like Nat. She’s too impetuous and self-centred for my taste. She’s often unkind to those who care about her and dangerously unforgiving to those who oppose her. Too many times, her actions arise from a desire to get what she wants, heedless of the consequences. Of course, that makes for an interesting protagonist. But it doesn’t mean I have to like her ;).
Nat often gets herself into situations that make me think, “No! Why would you do that?” My reaction reminds me of how I react to Harry Potter’s choices. Like Harry, Nat makes choices on her own, ignoring advice from others, and finds herself in dire situations as a result. And like Harry, Nat discovers her own inner strength and gifts, and that her friends rise to the challenges. I definitely recommend the Fourline Trilogy.
It’s taken some time for me to care enough about the characters and problems in Fourline, but within the first few chapters of The Last Remnant, that all changed for me. That said, I still don’t really like Nat. She’s too impetuous and self-centred for my taste. She’s often unkind to those who care about her and dangerously unforgiving to those who oppose her. Too many times, her actions arise from a desire to get what she wants, heedless of the consequences. Of course, that makes for an interesting protagonist. But it doesn’t mean I have to like her ;).
Nat often gets herself into situations that make me think, “No! Why would you do that?” My reaction reminds me of how I react to Harry Potter’s choices. Like Harry, Nat makes choices on her own, ignoring advice from others, and finds herself in dire situations as a result. And like Harry, Nat discovers her own inner strength and gifts, and that her friends rise to the challenges. I definitely recommend the Fourline Trilogy.
May 2, 2016
Finishing The Last Remnant made me sad. I looked forward to the continuing adventures of Nat in Fourline and back on Earth. Now, it has all ended. After reading the first Fourline book, each subsequent book went to the top of my TBR pile. I loved reading all the characters, and the rich history of Fourline and the people there.
I knew book three would be awesome because the first two were. I knew it was the last book of the trilogy, and I had certain expectations about the story. I’m happy to report than Pam Brondos delivered. I’ll miss looking forward to future books in the series, but I’m glad the series ended while it was on top instead of dragging on and on as so many other series tend to do.
If I see any other Pam Brondos books on NetGalley, I’ll request them because if her other writing is as good as the Fourline trilogy, I know it’ll be a solid read. Like books one and two, this one is a solid five stars.
I knew book three would be awesome because the first two were. I knew it was the last book of the trilogy, and I had certain expectations about the story. I’m happy to report than Pam Brondos delivered. I’ll miss looking forward to future books in the series, but I’m glad the series ended while it was on top instead of dragging on and on as so many other series tend to do.
If I see any other Pam Brondos books on NetGalley, I’ll request them because if her other writing is as good as the Fourline trilogy, I know it’ll be a solid read. Like books one and two, this one is a solid five stars.
July 12, 2016
While a decent enough conclusion to the series plot-wise, I found myself unbearably irritated by the main character's poor decision making. There was no reason for her irrational behaviour, and so many of her choices are so mind-boggling stupid I almost couldn't push through. For a conclusion, seeing a character regress this far (past where she was in the first book in terms of maturity and common sense) was nothing but frustrating. By the end, I didn't care how things ended up because Nat lost me somewhere at the first incredibly stupid decision.
In terms of the book itself, it was very formulaic. Nat makes a stupid ass decision, gets captured, somehow escapes. A lot of potentially catastrophic things were hinted at but never came to anything. It felt cheap, a way to increase the tension without ever delivering.
In terms of the book itself, it was very formulaic. Nat makes a stupid ass decision, gets captured, somehow escapes. A lot of potentially catastrophic things were hinted at but never came to anything. It felt cheap, a way to increase the tension without ever delivering.
July 13, 2020
No!
This whole series has gone from ok to worse. None of the character- or world development that was hinted at in the beginning actually takes place. I'm ashamed for seeing promise in the story after the first book. The second one dispelled a lot of those hopes, the third on just showed me the finger.
I'm not going to write a long dismantling critique of the book. Why? Well, because - frankly - it's not worth my time. Again, as I said in an earlier review (I think), younger readers or readers new to fantasy/wormhole parallel realms might find this enjoyable. However, if you like more meat on your bones, look elsewhere... there are much better options out there!
This whole series has gone from ok to worse. None of the character- or world development that was hinted at in the beginning actually takes place. I'm ashamed for seeing promise in the story after the first book. The second one dispelled a lot of those hopes, the third on just showed me the finger.
I'm not going to write a long dismantling critique of the book. Why? Well, because - frankly - it's not worth my time. Again, as I said in an earlier review (I think), younger readers or readers new to fantasy/wormhole parallel realms might find this enjoyable. However, if you like more meat on your bones, look elsewhere... there are much better options out there!
June 27, 2017
Much better than the first two books in the series; the entire plot moved quickly. I thought this was a nice wrap up.
February 12, 2024
A story found by accident, that I have enjoyed immensely.
Fantasy but with strong roots in the 'real' world, and not quite based on the usual fantasy tropes. There is no magic used to get out of tricky situations in this story. The writer has built a consistently well-rounded world, full of tradition and danger.
I would recommend this trilogy to lovers of fantasy and I would read further work by Pam Brondos, without hesitation.
Fantasy but with strong roots in the 'real' world, and not quite based on the usual fantasy tropes. There is no magic used to get out of tricky situations in this story. The writer has built a consistently well-rounded world, full of tradition and danger.
I would recommend this trilogy to lovers of fantasy and I would read further work by Pam Brondos, without hesitation.
October 10, 2018
I really fell in love with this series, however, I think so much more could have been written to elaborate towards the end about other characters we are all left forever wondering about. The love story stole me.
August 19, 2018
Love this series!
July 6, 2018
Natalie is devoted to finding a cure for the bite of the Nala in Fourline. Unfortunate humans become partially Nala when bitten by one of Fourline's monstrous creatures and are outcasts forever more in Fourline society. After trial and error Natalie believes that she has succeeded and becomes obsessed with returning to Fourline to deliver the cure. She acts against everyone's counsel and advice and sneaks through the membrane. Her sister Cal unexpectedly follows her through. Nat's obsessive desire to deliver the cure leads her to keep Calpurnia with her on this adventure. Nat is almost to the Healing House when she and Cal are attacked by Nala. Nat runs into the forest to lead them away while Cal runs to deliver the serum. Injured by the Nala, Nat is betrayed by a corrupt Sister and delivered to the Nala Queen. She escapes with help from her friends and the full campaign to regain the throne is on. Natalie is torn between her duties as a Fourline Sister and her duties as Calpurnia's sister and the need to keep her safe. The battle rages on all fronts until Fourline is regained and the Nala Queen is killed. With Fourline safe Nat and Cal return home. With the help of the cure that Natalie has discovered, Soris, Natalie's boyfriend, joins them on the farm.
This is an enjoyable series, but some weaknesses keep it from being great. The uncertainty of the love story feels a little forced and is stretched out too long. There comes a point when it should just be part of the story already; the romantic tension is no longer necessary to the plot and could be better employed as a fact rather than as a question. Otherwise, the plot is still exciting with plenty of twists and turns and drama. Nat's constant traipsing into trouble became a little annoying and detracted from the victory of retaking the capitol and the country. A real confrontation between Mudug and Estos would have been satisfying instead of stating it after the fact; after all, that was the primary plot line in books one and two. There is something inherently more interesting in man's inhumanity to man than in Natalie's battle with the Nala Queen. It is more expected that a creature would be inhumane, after all, she isn't human. But Mudug is the real evil in the story of Fourline. Without him the Queen would not have been out of control. His treatment of the people and Emilia and the half Nala was genuinely brutal. But his defeat receives less attention than Nat's battle with the Queen. A great deal is said about Mudug, but the reader never actually meets him. A final battle with the queen was inevitable and that part of the story was well written, but a final showdown with Mudug should receive equal time, attention, and importance. It would also have been nice to have a formal celebration of victory before Nat and Cal returned home. This book is fun light reading. It won't change the world, but it will give the reader a great adventure without having to leave the couch.
This is an enjoyable series, but some weaknesses keep it from being great. The uncertainty of the love story feels a little forced and is stretched out too long. There comes a point when it should just be part of the story already; the romantic tension is no longer necessary to the plot and could be better employed as a fact rather than as a question. Otherwise, the plot is still exciting with plenty of twists and turns and drama. Nat's constant traipsing into trouble became a little annoying and detracted from the victory of retaking the capitol and the country. A real confrontation between Mudug and Estos would have been satisfying instead of stating it after the fact; after all, that was the primary plot line in books one and two. There is something inherently more interesting in man's inhumanity to man than in Natalie's battle with the Nala Queen. It is more expected that a creature would be inhumane, after all, she isn't human. But Mudug is the real evil in the story of Fourline. Without him the Queen would not have been out of control. His treatment of the people and Emilia and the half Nala was genuinely brutal. But his defeat receives less attention than Nat's battle with the Queen. A great deal is said about Mudug, but the reader never actually meets him. A final battle with the queen was inevitable and that part of the story was well written, but a final showdown with Mudug should receive equal time, attention, and importance. It would also have been nice to have a formal celebration of victory before Nat and Cal returned home. This book is fun light reading. It won't change the world, but it will give the reader a great adventure without having to leave the couch.
May 24, 2017
I loved the first book so much, but as the series progressed, everything became a little tarnished for me.
One thing I loved about the first book was there was a legitimate reason that the people from Fourline needed the help of someone from another world, and it didn't seem to be rooted in some Special Destiny. Over the course of this book and the previous, it turned out that Nat was part of a Special Destiny.
Thematically, I am really uncomfortable with the Nala being pure villains that need to be exterminated. With the first book, there was at least the possibility of the Nala becoming more nuanced, but nope, they remain monsters that need to be exterminated like cancer. Or AIDS.
The series ended up being ridiculously heteronormative. And some of the romance was just unnecessary and felt almost aggressively heterosexual. Emilia spent 7 years imprisoned and tortured, and her brother thought she was dead. But instead of spending any time at all on her relationship with her brother Estos, we get this weird so-called "romance" with another character -- the brother of her dead husband -- who is possessive and grouchy and clingy, and I really don't see how he does anything positive for her mental or emotional well-being.
Then you have Estos and Annin. The king and the duozi -- a victim of the Nala loathed by most of the country due to a disinformation campaign by another villain. We barely get to see them interact -- Estos is barely a character, to be honest -- and then, at his coronation ceremony, he outs her as a duozi without talking to her about it first, telling the crowd "duozis are victims and not evil." An important sentiment to express, yeah, but why on earth would you do that to the woman you love without talking to her about it first? It's completely disrespectful.
Also, let's talk about how Emilia -- a female ruler and victim of a coup -- was like "I failed to protect Fourline and am giving power to my brother."
Let's talk about how Nat's boyfriend is the one to behead the Nalaide, her ultimate enemy.
This series is full of complex female characters, which is great. And Nat is certainly no passive damsel in distress. But even so, the structure of the narrative subtly reinforces the idea that men are the ones with power, that it's a man's world and women live in it. Straight cis women. No queers here. No explicit racial diversity, either; the whole thing drips with whiteness.
Ultimately, I'm just really disappointed.
One thing I loved about the first book was there was a legitimate reason that the people from Fourline needed the help of someone from another world, and it didn't seem to be rooted in some Special Destiny. Over the course of this book and the previous, it turned out that Nat was part of a Special Destiny.
Thematically, I am really uncomfortable with the Nala being pure villains that need to be exterminated. With the first book, there was at least the possibility of the Nala becoming more nuanced, but nope, they remain monsters that need to be exterminated like cancer. Or AIDS.
The series ended up being ridiculously heteronormative. And some of the romance was just unnecessary and felt almost aggressively heterosexual. Emilia spent 7 years imprisoned and tortured, and her brother thought she was dead. But instead of spending any time at all on her relationship with her brother Estos, we get this weird so-called "romance" with another character -- the brother of her dead husband -- who is possessive and grouchy and clingy, and I really don't see how he does anything positive for her mental or emotional well-being.
Then you have Estos and Annin. The king and the duozi -- a victim of the Nala loathed by most of the country due to a disinformation campaign by another villain. We barely get to see them interact -- Estos is barely a character, to be honest -- and then, at his coronation ceremony, he outs her as a duozi without talking to her about it first, telling the crowd "duozis are victims and not evil." An important sentiment to express, yeah, but why on earth would you do that to the woman you love without talking to her about it first? It's completely disrespectful.
Also, let's talk about how Emilia -- a female ruler and victim of a coup -- was like "I failed to protect Fourline and am giving power to my brother."
Let's talk about how Nat's boyfriend is the one to behead the Nalaide, her ultimate enemy.
This series is full of complex female characters, which is great. And Nat is certainly no passive damsel in distress. But even so, the structure of the narrative subtly reinforces the idea that men are the ones with power, that it's a man's world and women live in it. Straight cis women. No queers here. No explicit racial diversity, either; the whole thing drips with whiteness.
Ultimately, I'm just really disappointed.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 27, 2025
Nat has been home for months, pushing herself to the brink both physically and mentally as she searches for a cure to prevent humans bitten by Nala from transforming into duozi. Near total exhaustion, she uncovers a bacterium that triggers the duozi response and develops an antibiotic solution. Armed with the cure and determined to kill the Nalaide, which would fulfill the Sisters’ ancient prophecy that “the one” would save their world, Nat returns to Fourline. Cal is unintentionally swept into the quest when she accidentally tumbles through the membrane while following her sister.
This installment was stronger than the second book, though Nat’s discovery of the cure felt a bit too convenient. From what I recall of the first book, Nat studies electronics or technology, so her sudden leap into microbiology and the scientific method stretches believability.
The romance between Nat and Soris shows some welcome maturity: their conversations are more grounded and productive. Character development overall, however, remains fairly flat. Nearly every minor character makes an appearance, but most still feel like background filler rather than meaningful contributors. The exception is Annin; her backstory is compelling, but the book only scratches the surface of it.
The last third of the novel is where the story finds its stride. The action is constant, with Nat hunting the Nala while Estos wages war against Mudug and his forces. The strategy and execution of the conflict are layered and complex. Plans succeed, fail, and require quick improvisation, which gives the narrative a realistic energy.
In summary, the book and the series as a whole have enormous potential. The magic system is genuinely interesting: it can be taught, it is exclusive to the Sisters, and it adds a fresh angle to the worldbuilding. The plot is intricate without being confusing, and the subplots add texture, though some fall into familiar patterns such as the quirky roommate trope. There are plenty of intriguing minor characters who could have had a larger impact, but the story does not take the time to develop them fully.
I loved the first book, but the second and third did not quite measure up. Overall, both this final entry and the series as a whole land at three stars for me.
This installment was stronger than the second book, though Nat’s discovery of the cure felt a bit too convenient. From what I recall of the first book, Nat studies electronics or technology, so her sudden leap into microbiology and the scientific method stretches believability.
The romance between Nat and Soris shows some welcome maturity: their conversations are more grounded and productive. Character development overall, however, remains fairly flat. Nearly every minor character makes an appearance, but most still feel like background filler rather than meaningful contributors. The exception is Annin; her backstory is compelling, but the book only scratches the surface of it.
The last third of the novel is where the story finds its stride. The action is constant, with Nat hunting the Nala while Estos wages war against Mudug and his forces. The strategy and execution of the conflict are layered and complex. Plans succeed, fail, and require quick improvisation, which gives the narrative a realistic energy.
In summary, the book and the series as a whole have enormous potential. The magic system is genuinely interesting: it can be taught, it is exclusive to the Sisters, and it adds a fresh angle to the worldbuilding. The plot is intricate without being confusing, and the subplots add texture, though some fall into familiar patterns such as the quirky roommate trope. There are plenty of intriguing minor characters who could have had a larger impact, but the story does not take the time to develop them fully.
I loved the first book, but the second and third did not quite measure up. Overall, both this final entry and the series as a whole land at three stars for me.
April 1, 2021
A Satisfactory Conclusion, almost!
Though mystery fans might have seen the end coming a ways off I was sad to discover this was the end. I think the author should write additional novels in this setting and there are vast opportunities here for the royal family of Fourline to import selected technologies to their world. Technology ultimately is just knowledge put to use and the skilled tradespeople of Fourline could easily build indoor plumbing, solar water heaters and a whole array of other devices to make life four everyone in Fourline better. It seems like Fourline is an isolated civilisation on a little explored world, with his experiences on our earth Estos and those who have traveled with him in both worlds should now realise the Fourline is likely very much larger than their single kingdom geographically. There is a whole world to explore! Time for more novels!
Though mystery fans might have seen the end coming a ways off I was sad to discover this was the end. I think the author should write additional novels in this setting and there are vast opportunities here for the royal family of Fourline to import selected technologies to their world. Technology ultimately is just knowledge put to use and the skilled tradespeople of Fourline could easily build indoor plumbing, solar water heaters and a whole array of other devices to make life four everyone in Fourline better. It seems like Fourline is an isolated civilisation on a little explored world, with his experiences on our earth Estos and those who have traveled with him in both worlds should now realise the Fourline is likely very much larger than their single kingdom geographically. There is a whole world to explore! Time for more novels!
June 14, 2017
Slow starter, satisfying ending
The characters and the place of Fourline enchant. There is an attempt made to explain where Fourline is in the universe, but no explanation as to why they speak our language. Oh well, like Natalie, if you just accept some things about Fourline, then the Journey is more Enjoyable. The Nala are not humanized or given any traits that may cause you to feel sorry for them, or bad about their impending extinction (come on, you know it's going to happen). A great ending for some good characters.
The characters and the place of Fourline enchant. There is an attempt made to explain where Fourline is in the universe, but no explanation as to why they speak our language. Oh well, like Natalie, if you just accept some things about Fourline, then the Journey is more Enjoyable. The Nala are not humanized or given any traits that may cause you to feel sorry for them, or bad about their impending extinction (come on, you know it's going to happen). A great ending for some good characters.
February 3, 2019
Great trilogy
I chose this trilogy thinking it would be an easy read and i had just finished an intense thriller. Little did i know how drawn into this world i would become. Everyday has been a rush to get home and back to fourline. I'm going to miss theses characters like they were family as the author did such a good job of creating a world filled with people you fall in love with. I would recommend this series to anyone who enjoys getting lost in another world filled with adventure and excitement.
I chose this trilogy thinking it would be an easy read and i had just finished an intense thriller. Little did i know how drawn into this world i would become. Everyday has been a rush to get home and back to fourline. I'm going to miss theses characters like they were family as the author did such a good job of creating a world filled with people you fall in love with. I would recommend this series to anyone who enjoys getting lost in another world filled with adventure and excitement.
April 12, 2020
So Sad It Is Over!
I have loved this book and did not want it to end!!!!! I love that Natalie brought her expertise in chemistry to the healing house. I would've loved to be in the costume shop tunnel or kitchen when Natalie and her companion came though the membrane. I'd like to know how they originally discovered the link between the world, the membrane and tunnel! I really think we need a 4th novel! We need a big wedding for Annin and Natalie! ..and maybe even Andris!
Also, Cal needs to finish her apprenticeship. :-)
I have loved this book and did not want it to end!!!!! I love that Natalie brought her expertise in chemistry to the healing house. I would've loved to be in the costume shop tunnel or kitchen when Natalie and her companion came though the membrane. I'd like to know how they originally discovered the link between the world, the membrane and tunnel! I really think we need a 4th novel! We need a big wedding for Annin and Natalie! ..and maybe even Andris!
Also, Cal needs to finish her apprenticeship. :-)
November 3, 2021
Really solid, satisfying portal fantasy trilogy. I loved that the protagonist had REASONS for why she so easily moved from biology-major undergrad to sword-wielding warrior, and that her roles weren't front-lines battles - she was running side quests with ripple effects. Her our-world life affected & was affected by her Fourline life in very real ways.
I'd have liked more info and nuance in the Nala, but sometimes a human-sized mantis monster is what you need, so that's what you get.
Still - very satisfying, and Nat gets a happy ending. I'm glad I read this.
I'd have liked more info and nuance in the Nala, but sometimes a human-sized mantis monster is what you need, so that's what you get.
Still - very satisfying, and Nat gets a happy ending. I'm glad I read this.
August 26, 2022
The Fourline Trilogy is the best and most beautiful love story I've read in a long time, if not the best I've read in my entire life!
It is a series that borders on perfection: from its beautiful covers, the masterful way in which the author develops her characters, the description of Fourline, the well-developed plot and action, the almost lyrical writing, well... I love this books!
It's difficult to imagine, reading these books, that the author made her literary first steps with the first book of this series.
It is a series that borders on perfection: from its beautiful covers, the masterful way in which the author develops her characters, the description of Fourline, the well-developed plot and action, the almost lyrical writing, well... I love this books!
It's difficult to imagine, reading these books, that the author made her literary first steps with the first book of this series.
March 18, 2018
Reviiew Fourline Trilogy
Easy read.
Thank goodness the story line was there and the same exact words weren't used over and over and over again. Like another author I've read. Ugh!
I liked the twists she added, character's were great.
About fell over Andris the Ass was Emilia's Beau.
Despite Nat being treated as a piria I thought the Trilogy was very good.
If anyone else like this genres I would highly recommend it.
Easy read.
Thank goodness the story line was there and the same exact words weren't used over and over and over again. Like another author I've read. Ugh!
I liked the twists she added, character's were great.
About fell over Andris the Ass was Emilia's Beau.
Despite Nat being treated as a piria I thought the Trilogy was very good.
If anyone else like this genres I would highly recommend it.
February 22, 2020
After the second book I didn't think the protagonist could get any whinier. Was I wrong. You would think a person who is typically supposed to grow would do so, but no. Add on a serious martyr complex and you get someone you really wish would grow up. The author may have had some inkling since other characters also wanted her to stop acting the way she was - but oh no!
You do get the satisfaction of seeing the resolution you saw halfway through book one come to fruition. I guess.
You do get the satisfaction of seeing the resolution you saw halfway through book one come to fruition. I guess.
June 6, 2018
I absolutely loved this trilogy
I’m sad. I flew through this trilogy. Just finished the last book and I am left wanting more from these characters and Fourline. I want to know more about the sisters and their magic/knowledge. I want more of Nat & Soris, I want to know more about Annin and her transformation-future with Estos... More more more
I’m sad. I flew through this trilogy. Just finished the last book and I am left wanting more from these characters and Fourline. I want to know more about the sisters and their magic/knowledge. I want more of Nat & Soris, I want to know more about Annin and her transformation-future with Estos... More more more
October 16, 2018
Fascinating, clean fantasy!
What a really great tale that is woven especially well. This is the 3rd book of the Fourline Trilogy and I couldn't put any of them down I told the end. There's enough science, intrigue and otherworldliness to satisfy anyone. Add a touch of romance that is intense but cleanly expressed and you have a great read on your hands.
What a really great tale that is woven especially well. This is the 3rd book of the Fourline Trilogy and I couldn't put any of them down I told the end. There's enough science, intrigue and otherworldliness to satisfy anyone. Add a touch of romance that is intense but cleanly expressed and you have a great read on your hands.
February 3, 2019
I was so excited to get to this book and I was a little disappointed unfortunately. I feel like some of the storytelling got a little lazy. Nat made decisions that made absolutely no sense and continued to do so till the final battle. I loved the ending though and even thought this wasnt my favorite of the three for a series I got to read absolutely free I'm glad I did.
March 23, 2019
Good fun read
An ‘I don’t follow the rules’ college girl finds herself lost in another world with a hunky blonde guy. What’s not to love? I often found myself unable to stop reading but the book does have a pretty quick pace. Sometimes that was great and other times it felt rushed. All in all a fun little series.
An ‘I don’t follow the rules’ college girl finds herself lost in another world with a hunky blonde guy. What’s not to love? I often found myself unable to stop reading but the book does have a pretty quick pace. Sometimes that was great and other times it felt rushed. All in all a fun little series.
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