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Seraphim #3
Shadowborn: Seraphim, Book Three
The final breathtaking novel in the Seraphim trilogy by USA Today bestselling author David Dalglish
The protective dome has collapsed, and midnight fire rains down upon the five floating islands that house the last remnants of humanity. What started as a small rebellion has grown to all-out war, but Kael Skyborn no longer trusts the mysterious leader Johan, nor his disciples.
Bree Skyborn is the Phoenix of Weshern and the face of the rebellion, but her skill is not enough to escape the entire army of Center hunting her down. When she's captured, Kael no longer cares about the war or the call for independence. All that matters is rescuing his sister from the clutches of those who would use her to merge the elemental power of demons with the blood of mankind.
Both sides hold their secrets, which could be their ultimate undoing.
406 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 7, 2017
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March 27, 2019what an ending!
WHAT A SUFFERING!
just look at my stupid face! witness the proof!
while I’m completely satisfied with the ending. I will say that the relationship between the Skyborn twins and their father, left me a little like this 💔
I understand there was no way for their father to come back from the kind of faith that was instill in him, but at the end there was no reconciliation between them and that broke my heart. especially with the events that happened after.
PS. also what the hell happened to Saul? where is he? WHERE ARE THESE ANSWERS!!!!
WHAT A SUFFERING!
just look at my stupid face! witness the proof!
while I’m completely satisfied with the ending. I will say that the relationship between the Skyborn twins and their father, left me a little like this 💔
I understand there was no way for their father to come back from the kind of faith that was instill in him, but at the end there was no reconciliation between them and that broke my heart. especially with the events that happened after.
PS. also what the hell happened to Saul? where is he? WHERE ARE THESE ANSWERS!!!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 24, 2018
Terrific book bring the trilogy to an explosive conclusion.
Wow, just used the cliche, explosive ending, in this review. I struggle with any other way to put it. There is triumph and dispare. There is joy and sorrow. The battles in the sky continue to grow in scope and excitement, and the twins learn what it is that causes them to be special and they test the true limits of their power.
It has been a while since I have been this moved by a work of fiction. I am so very happy I took a chance on a writer and book I had never heard of. It is rare that such an awesome sounding title and cover truly represent what is found in the pages beyond.
Wow, just used the cliche, explosive ending, in this review. I struggle with any other way to put it. There is triumph and dispare. There is joy and sorrow. The battles in the sky continue to grow in scope and excitement, and the twins learn what it is that causes them to be special and they test the true limits of their power.
It has been a while since I have been this moved by a work of fiction. I am so very happy I took a chance on a writer and book I had never heard of. It is rare that such an awesome sounding title and cover truly represent what is found in the pages beyond.
June 18, 2018
A very disappointing 3.75* - I had much higher expectations after Fireborn tbh. My main issues were the amount of fight scenes in that first half. And I actually like fight scenes!! I don’t even mean that they were badly written, they weren’t. There was just too much for such a short book. I didn’t feel like there was any real substance to the plot this time until well into the second half and then the ending felt too rushed as a result. And what happened to half the cast of characters? There was no mention come the end. I actually don’t think the side characters were given an opportunity to really shine at any point throughout which was a shame too.
Also, just one more thing. Have to say that the right sibling died! It wasn’t completely unexpected though as I never thought for a second they would both survive. But very pleased at the outcome of that one ;P
Also, just one more thing. Have to say that the right sibling died! It wasn’t completely unexpected though as I never thought for a second they would both survive. But very pleased at the outcome of that one ;P
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 4, 2021
Great ending to a good trilogy of books. This was my first series that I read by this author as I have heard he is a great write. My rating is 3.5 on the basis that I hated how it ended and how some meaningful characters died that I wish we would have gotten to see how they made a impact. However, I’m looking forward to reading his other series and I like what he did in this series with aerial warfare with great attention to detail.
July 16, 2020
Fuck you David for ending it the way you did. Stop playing with my heart.
January 25, 2018
An epic conclusion to the trilogy! The battle scenes in this are truly fantastic and really cool to read about. There were a few small things where I didn't feel fully satisfied about the resolution, but I would still recommend the trilogy if you're looking for a readable fantasy series, especially one with really cool aerial combat sequences! This felt like a very fully developed world to me, and I'm sad that I won't get to read about more of the character's adventures.
September 8, 2022
It was foreseeable after Fireborn that the worldbuilding would kind of fall apart at some point -- both metaphorically and literally speaking, I guess. The discrepencies I had picked up in the first book and started to get annoyed by in the second were only amplified in this one, much to my dismay. It made it impossible to enjoy the story at times, which is the reason it took me forever to get through this last installment.
Honestly, I think Skyborn should have been a standalone. A bit of a tweak to the ending would have made it satisfying despite the cliffhanger, or maybe book 2 and 3 could have been condensed into a single, more focused volume to make it a duology. Shadowborn has even more filler than Fireborn in my opinion, and I didn't care for most of it. Yes, the scenes flashing back in time to before the ascension explain how we got to where we are when we enter the world but they just dragged on and on for no reason, adding entirely one-dimensional and inconsequential characters to an already large roster of the same. The sidequest to sign the peace treaty with Candren gives us insight into at least one of the other island nations but ultimately, it was superficial and did little to contribute to the story or stakes. Truth be told, the fact that the twins literally got away with murder during that meeting broke most of what little interest I still had in those characters.
The more I read the more annoyed I became by the inconsistencies in worldbuilding. The size of the population, number of Seraphs (how were there still any left by the time we get to the climax, espcecially those from Elern, Candren and Sothren who, by the book's own description, got slaughtered by Center's knights earlier that same day?), distances, how much time it takes to get anywhere, as well as the number of prisms and how much charge they hold all seem to magically change depending on what the plot requires. I still have no idea how big these floating islands really are. Saul, who was at some point possibly one of the main characters, just straight up vanishes halfway through the book without explanation and gets one last line in the final battle before never being seen again. Liam's entire story arc was pretty pointless, as was the (second) invasion of Weshern, and just the simple act of Kael repeatedly cutting his hand with his sword during the climax, even though we learned he had handed both of them to his sister only a couple pages earlier, was just the last straw. I couldn't care less about most of the battle scenes or the pointless subplot in which Bree got framed for murder. By the time all was said and done, I had absolutely no concept of how much time had passed between the end of book one and the end of L'adim. Going by how none of the main characters is bothered by injuries acquired at several points throughout the story I assume they've had some downtime in between battles but it certainly doesn't sound like it when reading the book. For all I know, books 2 and 3 played out across maybe two weeks and they all have superhuman stamina on top of very high healing factors.
In my review for Skyborn I said I didn't care about the holes in the worldbuilding, and in that first book I think that is still the case. But by Shadowborn it read a lot as if the author made things up as he went along, which is a real shame. Mr Dalglish himself actually confirms this in his final author's note, with a challenging: admit it, some of [these things he made up on the spot] were cool. And sure, the rule of cool is absolutely valid -- who cares that the mechanism for flying makes no sense when you can have awesome aerial battles. But that kind of thinking only works if used in moderation.
All in all, I respect the author for experimenting with this story and to hell with what others think. It may not have worked for me but going by the overall rating, it has certainly worked for others. I did like Bree's final send-off and the somewhat open ending that leaves plenty of room for the reader's own imagination and the characters to live on. I just wish it had been planned through from the start.
Honestly, I think Skyborn should have been a standalone. A bit of a tweak to the ending would have made it satisfying despite the cliffhanger, or maybe book 2 and 3 could have been condensed into a single, more focused volume to make it a duology. Shadowborn has even more filler than Fireborn in my opinion, and I didn't care for most of it. Yes, the scenes flashing back in time to before the ascension explain how we got to where we are when we enter the world but they just dragged on and on for no reason, adding entirely one-dimensional and inconsequential characters to an already large roster of the same. The sidequest to sign the peace treaty with Candren gives us insight into at least one of the other island nations but ultimately, it was superficial and did little to contribute to the story or stakes. Truth be told, the fact that the twins literally got away with murder during that meeting broke most of what little interest I still had in those characters.
The more I read the more annoyed I became by the inconsistencies in worldbuilding. The size of the population, number of Seraphs (how were there still any left by the time we get to the climax, espcecially those from Elern, Candren and Sothren who, by the book's own description, got slaughtered by Center's knights earlier that same day?), distances, how much time it takes to get anywhere, as well as the number of prisms and how much charge they hold all seem to magically change depending on what the plot requires. I still have no idea how big these floating islands really are. Saul, who was at some point possibly one of the main characters, just straight up vanishes halfway through the book without explanation and gets one last line in the final battle before never being seen again. Liam's entire story arc was pretty pointless, as was the (second) invasion of Weshern, and just the simple act of Kael repeatedly cutting his hand with his sword during the climax, even though we learned he had handed both of them to his sister only a couple pages earlier, was just the last straw. I couldn't care less about most of the battle scenes or the pointless subplot in which Bree got framed for murder. By the time all was said and done, I had absolutely no concept of how much time had passed between the end of book one and the end of L'adim. Going by how none of the main characters is bothered by injuries acquired at several points throughout the story I assume they've had some downtime in between battles but it certainly doesn't sound like it when reading the book. For all I know, books 2 and 3 played out across maybe two weeks and they all have superhuman stamina on top of very high healing factors.
In my review for Skyborn I said I didn't care about the holes in the worldbuilding, and in that first book I think that is still the case. But by Shadowborn it read a lot as if the author made things up as he went along, which is a real shame. Mr Dalglish himself actually confirms this in his final author's note, with a challenging: admit it, some of [these things he made up on the spot] were cool. And sure, the rule of cool is absolutely valid -- who cares that the mechanism for flying makes no sense when you can have awesome aerial battles. But that kind of thinking only works if used in moderation.
All in all, I respect the author for experimenting with this story and to hell with what others think. It may not have worked for me but going by the overall rating, it has certainly worked for others. I did like Bree's final send-off and the somewhat open ending that leaves plenty of room for the reader's own imagination and the characters to live on. I just wish it had been planned through from the start.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 16, 2018
I thought the last book was already taking a weird turn, but it gets even weirder in this book as we wrap up the trilogy.
**Warning: spoilers ahead**
Sooooo it turns out Bree and Kael's dad (Liam) is still alive, even though they were led to believe he was dead this entire time. Part of the story is told from his perspective, and we learn that he's been groomed (read: brainwashed) for the last several years by Marius to be the blade of the angels, i.e. to do Marius' dirty work.
And as if being a religious fanatic isn't enough, he's given orders to kill his own children which he is willing to do. It'd make a little more sense if he had lost his memories or something of his own kids, but nope. He remembers his wife and the love they had for each other, and he clearly remembers both Bree and Kael as kids. Even then, Marius is able to convince him that killing his own children is better for the rest of humanity as a whole, and Liam ends up playing the part of Kael's executioner. It's like the author is trying to introduce a side-plot/conflict in addition to the main conflict, but it doesn't really work.
Oh, and let's not forget about the part where Liam has one of his arms cut off and replaced with a robotic arm that can shoot fire to match Bree's abilities, cause that's exactly what was missing from this story. I love that there's a whole scene dedicated to how Liam gets this fancy new weapon, and we don't even see the explosive fire in action after that. In fact, the conclusion to this whole weird little Liam mini-arc is a quick comment at the end by Kael about how their father died in the last battle against L'adim and how he wish he could've made up with him.
I also have a problem with Bree and Kael's abilities. First of all, if they both have essentially demon blood in them, why does Kael have lightborn abilities like growing his own wings and why could he hear L'Fae and other angels? Maybe Marius and the other theotechs were lying about Kael's blood, but you'd think that the author would make it clear before the end. And where did his magical shield come from? I know it was given to him by Johan/L'adim, but man that seems like such a convenient item to have, perhaps a little too convenient. I can sort of believe it when told that the shield can absorb enemy fire or lightning, but to tell me that it can also break up large boulders or chunks of ice with zero damage to Kael? Okay...sure... I also rolled my eyes during his execution scene when he willed himself to grow wings. That was reaaaally stretching it for me there.
As a bad guy, Johan/L'adim doesn't really make sense. On one hand, you have this really bad shadow presence that is a seething cesspit of hatred and fear and all other negative emotions and that wants to completely destroy humanity. On the other, you get a charismatic individual who surprisingly questions his own actions. How am I supposed to reconcile the two together? I really don't think you can.
Marius kinda goes crazy near the end. I never liked him, but he deserves better than the ending the author wrote for him. His crazy plan to kill the angels and sink Center (and all the innocent lives who live on the island) on all the demons is a desperate one and I thought him better than that. After all, up till that point, he was doing his best as Speaker to maintain the legacy that was passed down to him and fight and win against the demons and L'adim.
The ending didn't make much sense to me either. Throughout the battle, it's already been said that fire and the other elements didn't seem to be causing much harm to the shadows. Kael was the only person to actually affect the shadows with his light. So why is it that Bree was the only who finally defeated L'adim and not Kael? I was definitely expecting him to do it, 1) since he's the only one who can actually harm the shadows, and 2) so he finally gets his chance to step out from behind the Phoenix's shadow and do something notable on his own. But somehow Bree was the one to defeat L'adam instead, and the solution was to draw on her blood and pile on even more fire? Let's just say I'm not a huge fan of how this battle played out...
Overall, I wasn't a huge fan of this series. The first book was my favorite, and it kinda goes downhill from there.
**Warning: spoilers ahead**
Sooooo it turns out Bree and Kael's dad (Liam) is still alive, even though they were led to believe he was dead this entire time. Part of the story is told from his perspective, and we learn that he's been groomed (read: brainwashed) for the last several years by Marius to be the blade of the angels, i.e. to do Marius' dirty work.
And as if being a religious fanatic isn't enough, he's given orders to kill his own children which he is willing to do. It'd make a little more sense if he had lost his memories or something of his own kids, but nope. He remembers his wife and the love they had for each other, and he clearly remembers both Bree and Kael as kids. Even then, Marius is able to convince him that killing his own children is better for the rest of humanity as a whole, and Liam ends up playing the part of Kael's executioner. It's like the author is trying to introduce a side-plot/conflict in addition to the main conflict, but it doesn't really work.
Oh, and let's not forget about the part where Liam has one of his arms cut off and replaced with a robotic arm that can shoot fire to match Bree's abilities, cause that's exactly what was missing from this story. I love that there's a whole scene dedicated to how Liam gets this fancy new weapon, and we don't even see the explosive fire in action after that. In fact, the conclusion to this whole weird little Liam mini-arc is a quick comment at the end by Kael about how their father died in the last battle against L'adim and how he wish he could've made up with him.
I also have a problem with Bree and Kael's abilities. First of all, if they both have essentially demon blood in them, why does Kael have lightborn abilities like growing his own wings and why could he hear L'Fae and other angels? Maybe Marius and the other theotechs were lying about Kael's blood, but you'd think that the author would make it clear before the end. And where did his magical shield come from? I know it was given to him by Johan/L'adim, but man that seems like such a convenient item to have, perhaps a little too convenient. I can sort of believe it when told that the shield can absorb enemy fire or lightning, but to tell me that it can also break up large boulders or chunks of ice with zero damage to Kael? Okay...sure... I also rolled my eyes during his execution scene when he willed himself to grow wings. That was reaaaally stretching it for me there.
As a bad guy, Johan/L'adim doesn't really make sense. On one hand, you have this really bad shadow presence that is a seething cesspit of hatred and fear and all other negative emotions and that wants to completely destroy humanity. On the other, you get a charismatic individual who surprisingly questions his own actions. How am I supposed to reconcile the two together? I really don't think you can.
Marius kinda goes crazy near the end. I never liked him, but he deserves better than the ending the author wrote for him. His crazy plan to kill the angels and sink Center (and all the innocent lives who live on the island) on all the demons is a desperate one and I thought him better than that. After all, up till that point, he was doing his best as Speaker to maintain the legacy that was passed down to him and fight and win against the demons and L'adim.
The ending didn't make much sense to me either. Throughout the battle, it's already been said that fire and the other elements didn't seem to be causing much harm to the shadows. Kael was the only person to actually affect the shadows with his light. So why is it that Bree was the only who finally defeated L'adim and not Kael? I was definitely expecting him to do it, 1) since he's the only one who can actually harm the shadows, and 2) so he finally gets his chance to step out from behind the Phoenix's shadow and do something notable on his own. But somehow Bree was the one to defeat L'adam instead, and the solution was to draw on her blood and pile on even more fire? Let's just say I'm not a huge fan of how this battle played out...
Overall, I wasn't a huge fan of this series. The first book was my favorite, and it kinda goes downhill from there.
March 21, 2019
The ending was both expected and unexpected in its own ways. Lots of twists and turns, very action packed, and I truly feel that each of the main characters got closer. Dalglish ended all the plot threads that needed tidying. Loved how the mythology grew with each subsequent book. Added many layers that I wasn’t expecting. An intense end to a series that grew more intense with each novel. I’ll miss this universe, but I think this was a good final book to close the tale of the seraphim world. Also, the epilogue added nice closure. Nothing rushed. Well done. Obviously Bree was a strong protagonist, and will forever be more interesting than Kael, but I was also impressed with the roles many of the minor female characters took on in the book — Rebecca, Olivia, Avila — they haven’t had huge roles in the past, but they really got a chance to shine and rise up to show that (IMO) they should have been . This should be the standard in novels, and it was cool to see just a strong cast of female characters. I will be reading more David Dalglish. There is no doubt about that. His author’s notes at the end were ver informative, and interesting after each novel.
Bree’s death was sad and I hoped that somehow Kael would heal her... but it fit, and I’m glad it wasn’t undone. If someone was going to sacrifice her life, it was going to be Bree. From the first chapter of book 1... it was always going to be Bree. This was Bree’s Saga, and her tale didn’t disappoint. She gave her life for humankind, not just because she was the protagonist, but because she was smart enough to see the solution in front of her, brave enough to fight L’adim earlier in the book and realize how his shadowform worked. Bree’s tale was perfect, as sad as it was. But in retrospect, this was the perfect end for her. She wasn’t one to go out in a whimper, ever. Saul’s possible death bothered me. He was an ass, but I came around to liking him in this book, and his semi-offscreen not guaranteed death felt like a disservice. IDK. I’m glad Clara survived, as she was a noble badass. Loved the line of her killing Kael if he tried to stop her from fighting—even better that it came from Avila. Saw some complaints of the dad’s death, and it bothered me at first, but then I realized it had a point. It shows the despair that Marius’ lies and twisting of religion caused. Liam realized he had ripped apart his family for nothing. In novel plot line land, we expect his change of heart to lead to redemption and reconciliation with his kids with a probable heroic sacrifice. But realistically this was the more genuine ending. He effectively murdered his son. He let go of that rope. He at least had hope that Marius knew what he was doing. Realizing the angels didn’t even know... that was it. He was done. Also loved the writing in that scene where he is misinterpreting the gestures of the light born, which to me showed off his bubbling mental instability. A sad arc, but still important as he took out two of humanity’s greatest internal threats. Loved Marius’ death... it was perfection.
Bree’s death was sad and I hoped that somehow Kael would heal her... but it fit, and I’m glad it wasn’t undone. If someone was going to sacrifice her life, it was going to be Bree. From the first chapter of book 1... it was always going to be Bree. This was Bree’s Saga, and her tale didn’t disappoint. She gave her life for humankind, not just because she was the protagonist, but because she was smart enough to see the solution in front of her, brave enough to fight L’adim earlier in the book and realize how his shadowform worked. Bree’s tale was perfect, as sad as it was. But in retrospect, this was the perfect end for her. She wasn’t one to go out in a whimper, ever. Saul’s possible death bothered me. He was an ass, but I came around to liking him in this book, and his semi-offscreen not guaranteed death felt like a disservice. IDK. I’m glad Clara survived, as she was a noble badass. Loved the line of her killing Kael if he tried to stop her from fighting—even better that it came from Avila. Saw some complaints of the dad’s death, and it bothered me at first, but then I realized it had a point. It shows the despair that Marius’ lies and twisting of religion caused. Liam realized he had ripped apart his family for nothing. In novel plot line land, we expect his change of heart to lead to redemption and reconciliation with his kids with a probable heroic sacrifice. But realistically this was the more genuine ending. He effectively murdered his son. He let go of that rope. He at least had hope that Marius knew what he was doing. Realizing the angels didn’t even know... that was it. He was done. Also loved the writing in that scene where he is misinterpreting the gestures of the light born, which to me showed off his bubbling mental instability. A sad arc, but still important as he took out two of humanity’s greatest internal threats. Loved Marius’ death... it was perfection.
April 26, 2018
The ending was predictable, in a sense -
Anyway, there are also a ton of epic battle scenes that felt like it was made for visual pleasure (or movies). It's almost non-stop action.
It's a fun series and the ending felt like it was begging a sequel trilogy. It feels possible that . So many options!
Anyway, there are also a ton of epic battle scenes that felt like it was made for visual pleasure (or movies). It's almost non-stop action.
It's a fun series and the ending felt like it was begging a sequel trilogy. It feels possible that . So many options!
March 15, 2023
Dalglish really kicks things up to 11 after L'Adim's reveal at the end of book 2. Machinations unfold as the floating islands hurtle towards an explosive confrontation with each other, even as the sins of the past come howling at the gates.
Compared to the academy setting of book 1 and the revolution of book 2, book 3 tackles the existential threats facing the floating islands. as usual, plot armour is in short supply and the bodies pile up fast. I appreciated the stakes of the conflict being real, with no easy way out presented. Dalglish clearly followed Sanderson's Rule of Cool when writing, with the set pieces a treat to read and visualise.
____
Humanity walks a path with their heads down, staring at the few steps ahead of their feet, but we witnessed the great length of the path they walked upon, and we knew the direction they headed. Endless conflict over borders, wealth, place of birth, and color of skin. There would always be the hungry, always the poor.
Because the Archon doesn’t just believe he’s right,” she said. “He knows he is right. To visit the cathedral is to entertain the idea he’s wrong. Some people are willing to learn and accept their knowledge is not absolute. I think Evereth’s quite the opposite.
This world is not made of our wishes, Kael, but of our actions
Compared to the academy setting of book 1 and the revolution of book 2, book 3 tackles the existential threats facing the floating islands. as usual, plot armour is in short supply and the bodies pile up fast. I appreciated the stakes of the conflict being real, with no easy way out presented. Dalglish clearly followed Sanderson's Rule of Cool when writing, with the set pieces a treat to read and visualise.
____
Humanity walks a path with their heads down, staring at the few steps ahead of their feet, but we witnessed the great length of the path they walked upon, and we knew the direction they headed. Endless conflict over borders, wealth, place of birth, and color of skin. There would always be the hungry, always the poor.
Because the Archon doesn’t just believe he’s right,” she said. “He knows he is right. To visit the cathedral is to entertain the idea he’s wrong. Some people are willing to learn and accept their knowledge is not absolute. I think Evereth’s quite the opposite.
This world is not made of our wishes, Kael, but of our actions
January 25, 2019
David Dalgish Seraphim series was delightful find for me last year. B&B was having a sale on their Bargain books last summer and I picked up the first of the series, and I was hooked.
Shadowborn is the conclusion to that series, and the hook stayed in until the end. The way Dalgish describes the battles feels like they are fit for the movie screen. You can picture the Seraphim's flying trough the air like eagles battle with their elements feels like it would fit in place in a Marvel Movie of today.
Kael in the previous novels took a bit of a back seat to Bree, but I really feel Kael shined in this novel, and Dalgish was able to do that with out sacrificing Bree's time to shine in the particular novel, very well balanced.
The story always unfolds in unexpected ways throughout the series, it's as if Dalgish knew your what you expectations would be for this type of novel, and made sure to avoid going down that road. Every page kept me engage and I was often surprised what was going to happen Next.
I recommend this series to everyone, but specifically to Fantasy Fans and or YA dystopian book fans (E.G. Hunger Games, Red Rising) and the final Book will not fans of the series down.
Shadowborn is the conclusion to that series, and the hook stayed in until the end. The way Dalgish describes the battles feels like they are fit for the movie screen. You can picture the Seraphim's flying trough the air like eagles battle with their elements feels like it would fit in place in a Marvel Movie of today.
Kael in the previous novels took a bit of a back seat to Bree, but I really feel Kael shined in this novel, and Dalgish was able to do that with out sacrificing Bree's time to shine in the particular novel, very well balanced.
The story always unfolds in unexpected ways throughout the series, it's as if Dalgish knew your what you expectations would be for this type of novel, and made sure to avoid going down that road. Every page kept me engage and I was often surprised what was going to happen Next.
I recommend this series to everyone, but specifically to Fantasy Fans and or YA dystopian book fans (E.G. Hunger Games, Red Rising) and the final Book will not fans of the series down.
December 18, 2019
Everything from the first 2.5 books culminates into a satisfying end. Emotions were stirred, and I was content with the state of the world after the trilogy's conclusion. And that, I think, it what we all want, right? A well-plotted series that reaches us at the core of what we enjoy about fantasy.
This is my premise to my review of the book, which really should have been 3-stars, if I'm acting honestly with myself as against other books I've read and reviewed and—independently—enjoyed more. I think it's the "low"-fantasy setting that throws me. I cannot reconcile post-apocalyptic angelic knights being named Alison, or Brett. I cannot fully envelope myself in the story when dialogue is too casual, and too similar of modern-day argot; however, I don't think it matters, in the end. The story was good, and the pacing was fast. (Although I could have used much fewer skirmishes, the author acknowledges this in his afterword as a genesis for some of the more interesting elements.)
Ultimately, if you enjoy low-fantasy settings and vibrant world-building, the Seraphim Trilogy is worth reading.
This is my premise to my review of the book, which really should have been 3-stars, if I'm acting honestly with myself as against other books I've read and reviewed and—independently—enjoyed more. I think it's the "low"-fantasy setting that throws me. I cannot reconcile post-apocalyptic angelic knights being named Alison, or Brett. I cannot fully envelope myself in the story when dialogue is too casual, and too similar of modern-day argot; however, I don't think it matters, in the end. The story was good, and the pacing was fast. (Although I could have used much fewer skirmishes, the author acknowledges this in his afterword as a genesis for some of the more interesting elements.)
Ultimately, if you enjoy low-fantasy settings and vibrant world-building, the Seraphim Trilogy is worth reading.
May 20, 2021
I liked "Shadowborn," it was definitely the best book of this series and it brought the entire thing to a good conclusion.
Kael and Bree are both good protagonists, and I liked their overall story arcs. Some of the supporting characters like Saul, Liam, and Avila had true character depth as well (even L'adim's motivations are fleshed out and, as with any good villain, aren't just "I'm acting evil because I'm evil"). This is a book where people get killed off quite a bit, which I actually like in a story, it increases the tension and makes you feel like no one is safe.
The action is good (and there sure is plenty of it), although the big invasion of Weshern by Center felt like a little bit of a stall considering this wasn't the main conflict. The character of Marius is a bit off, too; I guess he is just power-crazed which does make some sense, but if he knew the truth about L'adim then why was he messing about with petty human conflicts rather than be open about the true threat?
Not a perfect book and some of my enjoyment probably is from the overall series accumulation, but that's a complement to the series as a whole and overall this is a very satisfying conclusion.
Kael and Bree are both good protagonists, and I liked their overall story arcs. Some of the supporting characters like Saul, Liam, and Avila had true character depth as well (even L'adim's motivations are fleshed out and, as with any good villain, aren't just "I'm acting evil because I'm evil"). This is a book where people get killed off quite a bit, which I actually like in a story, it increases the tension and makes you feel like no one is safe.
The action is good (and there sure is plenty of it), although the big invasion of Weshern by Center felt like a little bit of a stall considering this wasn't the main conflict. The character of Marius is a bit off, too; I guess he is just power-crazed which does make some sense, but if he knew the truth about L'adim then why was he messing about with petty human conflicts rather than be open about the true threat?
Not a perfect book and some of my enjoyment probably is from the overall series accumulation, but that's a complement to the series as a whole and overall this is a very satisfying conclusion.
January 5, 2018
A mini review of the series: I did like this series though I am also glad that it is over. I liked the setting and the characters were well written. pace was sometimes a problem and the fight scenes were unbelievable; there was almost no strategy in how the main characters battled. they should have died 20 times.
The main reason that the book gets 3 stars is that the characters are dumb. They made no connection between obvious events. Couldn't see how they connected to the larger picture in most of book 2 though it was obvious the moment the Fireborn were introduced. I don't want to spoil the story so I will just say that this kinda obliviousness was a reoccurring theme through the books. I prefer my characters to have a bit of intelligence about them.
If you are a fan of Dalglish like I am, these books are worth a read.
The main reason that the book gets 3 stars is that the characters are dumb. They made no connection between obvious events. Couldn't see how they connected to the larger picture in most of book 2 though it was obvious the moment the Fireborn were introduced. I don't want to spoil the story so I will just say that this kinda obliviousness was a reoccurring theme through the books. I prefer my characters to have a bit of intelligence about them.
If you are a fan of Dalglish like I am, these books are worth a read.
March 13, 2018
Okay, I admit, I cried at the end. A lot. And that's as much a spoiler as I'm going to leave. I liked this book, this series, a lot more than anticipated. I haven't really read the fantasy genre in a long time, so this series was a foray back into the genre. I do believe I'll be reading more.
So this is the final battle against the shadowborn, filled with brave and desperate people. What a battle it is. I read somewhere - and I'm going to paraphrase - that true courage is being afraid and doing what needs to be done anyway. I'm happy to say that both Kael and Bree demonstrated true courage. My thanks to the author for such well rounded characters, for showing them exhibiting that true courage.
So this is the final battle against the shadowborn, filled with brave and desperate people. What a battle it is. I read somewhere - and I'm going to paraphrase - that true courage is being afraid and doing what needs to be done anyway. I'm happy to say that both Kael and Bree demonstrated true courage. My thanks to the author for such well rounded characters, for showing them exhibiting that true courage.
February 22, 2021
As mentioned in my review of Fireborn, the author really has no qualms killing off characters!
This book really did reach the heights of high fantasy, compared to the first book where everything could have gone a much more mechanical/realistic route. I guess that gave a lot more leeway in terms of what the author could do here.
All in all it was an exhilarating ride. Kael did grow a lot more into himself here I felt. A lot of arcs ended although not really in the redemptive arc I'm more used to. Lots of destruction, and a bittersweet epilogue. After the fast pace of the book, the epilogue felt like a nice breather and tie up.
Overall enjoyed this series though it's pretty different from what I'm used to!
This book really did reach the heights of high fantasy, compared to the first book where everything could have gone a much more mechanical/realistic route. I guess that gave a lot more leeway in terms of what the author could do here.
All in all it was an exhilarating ride. Kael did grow a lot more into himself here I felt. A lot of arcs ended although not really in the redemptive arc I'm more used to. Lots of destruction, and a bittersweet epilogue. After the fast pace of the book, the epilogue felt like a nice breather and tie up.
Overall enjoyed this series though it's pretty different from what I'm used to!
August 1, 2018
evil's ancient dance
the Seraphim from all of the islands have been destroying each other for years. no one ever knew that the battles were caused by a fallen angel who could wear many faces. Kael has come to the realization that everyone must know, even at the cost of his life. this final war will be so much more dear to Bree and Kael than they could have ever thought possible
as always, David has promised, and delivered, a fantastic trilogy. the characters grow in spellbinding and horrifying ways. he has written a plausible theory for impossible scenery. once again, I can't wait to see what he writes next
the Seraphim from all of the islands have been destroying each other for years. no one ever knew that the battles were caused by a fallen angel who could wear many faces. Kael has come to the realization that everyone must know, even at the cost of his life. this final war will be so much more dear to Bree and Kael than they could have ever thought possible
as always, David has promised, and delivered, a fantastic trilogy. the characters grow in spellbinding and horrifying ways. he has written a plausible theory for impossible scenery. once again, I can't wait to see what he writes next
January 7, 2018
Dalglish started off this trilogy fairly low-key. He ramped it up, significantly, toward the end of book two, and, according to some reviewers, "jumped the shark" in this book. I disagree, somewhat. Yes, the story ramped up even more significantly in this book, but I still felt it wasn't completely overdone. There was so much going on, that you really had to pay close attention, so as not to miss something. I don't want to say more, because spoilers, so read it for yourself, and form your own opinion.
December 15, 2017
Well I am glad the author was kind of able to save the plot after book 2. but if you have read the first 2 books you could probably guess everything that happens here except for the Speaker. And WTF is up with the Speaker he is like a badly written crazy person all of the sudden .Other than him and one other I still think the characters are the only thing that made me want to finish the series. I won't tell anyone to go out and buy this series but if you see it at a used book store for a few bucks, its worth it I guess.
June 1, 2018
The final book, the ultimate battle. While the first books created the world and populated it, this book focuses on saving the world and humanity's battles. With 2 villains who both claim their ultimate goal is peace, it's hard to figure out who to hate but easy to fear. I can't say I liked the ending, both from an emotional and logical perspective but more would be spoilers. It's certainly a wild ride and a satisfactory ending to the series.
November 12, 2018
My first complete David Dalglish series and certainly won't be my last.
That in mind, I wasn't a fan much of how this ended but it probably was the best possible resolution one could expect after so much suffering, revelations, loss, carnage and cataclysmic destruction at near apocalyptic levels.
Well it wasn't all bad, not as bad as Brian Staveley's Unhewn Throne trilogy (& prequel); man, that series almost blew me away for bad.
Thanks, DD.
Will recommend.
That in mind, I wasn't a fan much of how this ended but it probably was the best possible resolution one could expect after so much suffering, revelations, loss, carnage and cataclysmic destruction at near apocalyptic levels.
Well it wasn't all bad, not as bad as Brian Staveley's Unhewn Throne trilogy (& prequel); man, that series almost blew me away for bad.
Thanks, DD.
Will recommend.
March 2, 2021
As a whole this series was enjoyable, but about a third of a way through this book it got hard to read. Where it was hard to put the first two books down at times, it was hard to go back to this one. I know this is probably a weird thing to say about a book about islands that float in the sky with angels and demons and people who fly, but it got too unrealistic. (Mostly in terms of the actions and reactions of people, as well as the dialogue.)
October 18, 2018
This was a very strong conclusion to a series I've enjoyed reading. The action was almost nonstop, and I've enjoyed following the adventures of Bree and Kael through all three books. In this book, more and more mysteries were unveiled, and the stakes just kept growing higher. By the end, I was glued to the pages.
Rating: 9/10
Rating: 9/10
December 7, 2018
One of the best endings to a series I’ve ever read. There were moments of swears and tears. I’m still completely flabbergasted and trying to wrap my head around it all. I blasted through the first two books, but really wanted to savor this one. Needless to say, if you’re in the mood for an epic action fantasy, pick this up. I will definitely be picking up Dalglish’s other books ASAP!
July 24, 2020
Unfortunately, it felt like Shadowborn dragged out and had quite a few loose ends. It's a shame because the idea was interesting. However, I quickly got tired of reading endless fightscenes. At the end, I was just ready for it to be over which is probably why the ending didn't really get to me. It didn't help that it seemed to contradict with the lore that the word so-far had presented.
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June 8, 2021It was okay. The ending felt somewhat inevitable and I don't think it's a good thing that I didn't find it particularly emotionally jarring - I suppose it's because I never really liked
June 24, 2021
As the author stated in his notes, he went all out in this book. Nothing was off-limits. He just went with whatever was in his head. Apparently, his head was cluttered. This made for an exciting non-stop thrill ride while losing some logic and cohesion. Many battle scenes and many more deaths. The ending was not quite as anticipated. Sadness and hope.
October 18, 2022
A great conclusion to a fun series.
While I didn't like the reveal at the end of the previous book at first, this one made good use of it. The world, the characters, and their actions were clearly thought through and executed well.
And the ending was satisfying, while managing to not cheapen all that has lead up to it.
While I didn't like the reveal at the end of the previous book at first, this one made good use of it. The world, the characters, and their actions were clearly thought through and executed well.
And the ending was satisfying, while managing to not cheapen all that has lead up to it.
May 26, 2025
What an amazing ending to a fantastic series. I absolutely love these characters and this world. While the first book was my favorite, the last two expand the world in a flawless way. My only critique is some of the action scenes can be a bit long, and there are a few noticeable typos in the later half of this book. But I’d recommend this series wholeheartedly.
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