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Swords and Fire #3
The Unbound Empire
The final volume of the Gemmell Morningstar Award-shortlisted Swords and Fire fantasy trilogy, in which political scion Amalia and her bound fire warlock Zaira must save the Empire from a ruthless, magical enemy. Perfect for fans of Tamora Pierce, The Queen of the Tearling, and Uprooted.
While winter snows keep the Witch Lord Ruven's invading armies at bay, Lady Amalia Cornaro and the fire warlock Zaira attempt to change the fate of mages in the Raverran Empire forever, earning the enmity of those in power who will do anything to keep all magic under tight imperial control. But in the season of the Serene City's great masquerade, Ruven executes a devastating surprise strike at the heart of the Empire - and at everything Amalia holds most dear.
To stand a chance of defeating Ruven, Amalia and Zaira must face their worst nightmares, expose their deepest secrets, and unleash Zaira's most devastating fire.
While winter snows keep the Witch Lord Ruven's invading armies at bay, Lady Amalia Cornaro and the fire warlock Zaira attempt to change the fate of mages in the Raverran Empire forever, earning the enmity of those in power who will do anything to keep all magic under tight imperial control. But in the season of the Serene City's great masquerade, Ruven executes a devastating surprise strike at the heart of the Empire - and at everything Amalia holds most dear.
To stand a chance of defeating Ruven, Amalia and Zaira must face their worst nightmares, expose their deepest secrets, and unleash Zaira's most devastating fire.
505 pages, Paperback
First published April 25, 2019
249 people are currently reading
2631 people want to read
About the author
Melissa Caruso
15 books1,049 followersMelissa Caruso is the author of THE TETHERED MAGE, first in the Swords and Fire trilogy, out now from Orbit books.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 308 reviews
May 29, 2019
I would like to thank Melissa Caruso and Orbit Books for sending me a prerelease copy of The Unbound Empire in exchange for an honest review.
Following on from the conclusion of The Defiant Heir we find Lady Amalia now at home in Raverra. In addition to the other political duties that the Cornaro heir would have to perform, she is looking to compose the Falcon Reform Act. This Bill would allow the 'mage-marked' certain rights and elements of freedom. They are currently seen by all as little more than weapons of magical destruction that are owned and that will be controlled by The Serene Empire should war occur. The Witchlord and Skinwitch Ruven who rules Kazerath has been quiet recently due to the winter snows but the delay is only temporary and he remains a constant threat in his quest for invasion and to conquer all. We also have to wonder what the other Witchlords are plotting in their own domains of Vaskandar too...
This may be a shorter review than my analysis of the prior books as I don't wish to repeat what I've said previously regarding the world, themes, certain relationships, previous plot points etc... Simply put, this is one of my favourite political fantasy trilogies from recent years. Looking back two years ago, I only started Caruso's debut as I couldn't decide what to read next and liked the cover. Yet, when I have received the two follow-ups they have instantly been promoted to the top of my to-be read-list and I have completed them before the release dates. I've got a gigantic reading list featuring hundreds of books that I'll probably never get to so I think this projects how much I admire Caruso's work.
In The Unbound Empire, Caruso really has exceeded all my expectations. It's a gorgeous narrative that intertwines war, love, political intrigue, betrayal and it's anything but predictable. The pages are brimming with highs and lows that pulled at my heartstrings and occasionally made me an emotional wreck. This tale is overflowing with excellent characters that I have invested a lot of quality time with and really cared about. Some of my favourites were the Fire Warlock Zaira, the Mysterious Witchlord and mind game loving Kathe, the ever reliable and honourable Marcello and even new characters such as the aide Lucia and the bantering Heartguards. It also features one of the most terrifying, sadistic yet overpowered characters I've ever read about.
Although this series does have elements of YA this entry is much darker. There is still romance, friendship and frivolity but these elements are mixed with complete catastrophic destruction, both physical and mental torture, and lots of other nastiness. The Unbound Empire is full of excellent set-pieces, three of which stood out in particular to me. One of these is a stunning, engaging showdown towards the end of the narrative. The payoff here is great. It all wraps up nicely (for some more than others) and I would love Caruso to return to this world as quite often it seemed like a living and breathing character in its own right. I'll be following this author's career closely as I think she is sublimely talented.
A phenomenally well-written, engrossing political fantasy series with fine dialogue throughout. Swords and Fire is a series that many more people should add to their reading list.
Following on from the conclusion of The Defiant Heir we find Lady Amalia now at home in Raverra. In addition to the other political duties that the Cornaro heir would have to perform, she is looking to compose the Falcon Reform Act. This Bill would allow the 'mage-marked' certain rights and elements of freedom. They are currently seen by all as little more than weapons of magical destruction that are owned and that will be controlled by The Serene Empire should war occur. The Witchlord and Skinwitch Ruven who rules Kazerath has been quiet recently due to the winter snows but the delay is only temporary and he remains a constant threat in his quest for invasion and to conquer all. We also have to wonder what the other Witchlords are plotting in their own domains of Vaskandar too...
This may be a shorter review than my analysis of the prior books as I don't wish to repeat what I've said previously regarding the world, themes, certain relationships, previous plot points etc... Simply put, this is one of my favourite political fantasy trilogies from recent years. Looking back two years ago, I only started Caruso's debut as I couldn't decide what to read next and liked the cover. Yet, when I have received the two follow-ups they have instantly been promoted to the top of my to-be read-list and I have completed them before the release dates. I've got a gigantic reading list featuring hundreds of books that I'll probably never get to so I think this projects how much I admire Caruso's work.
In The Unbound Empire, Caruso really has exceeded all my expectations. It's a gorgeous narrative that intertwines war, love, political intrigue, betrayal and it's anything but predictable. The pages are brimming with highs and lows that pulled at my heartstrings and occasionally made me an emotional wreck. This tale is overflowing with excellent characters that I have invested a lot of quality time with and really cared about. Some of my favourites were the Fire Warlock Zaira, the Mysterious Witchlord and mind game loving Kathe, the ever reliable and honourable Marcello and even new characters such as the aide Lucia and the bantering Heartguards. It also features one of the most terrifying, sadistic yet overpowered characters I've ever read about.
Although this series does have elements of YA this entry is much darker. There is still romance, friendship and frivolity but these elements are mixed with complete catastrophic destruction, both physical and mental torture, and lots of other nastiness. The Unbound Empire is full of excellent set-pieces, three of which stood out in particular to me. One of these is a stunning, engaging showdown towards the end of the narrative. The payoff here is great. It all wraps up nicely (for some more than others) and I would love Caruso to return to this world as quite often it seemed like a living and breathing character in its own right. I'll be following this author's career closely as I think she is sublimely talented.
A phenomenally well-written, engrossing political fantasy series with fine dialogue throughout. Swords and Fire is a series that many more people should add to their reading list.
October 2, 2019
Graces above this is the best #3 book I've ever read. I couldn't have imagined-let alone asked for-a better ending to this FAB series. The moment I'd finished was monumental and "Time seemed to slow until it flowed like molten glass, precious and glowing, too bright to touch."
Like the other two books, this one was layered with courtly intrigue and the threat of war/Ruven. The writing was beautiful (the quote above is evidence enough) and there was fabulous character and relationship development. I've said it before and I'll say it again, I think the uniquecharacters people are what makes this series so special, and I can't get enough of them (even Ruven, cruel and sadistic as he is).
not only remind me of Fix it Felix and Wreck it Ralph but are my favourite friend-couples ever. Their relationship arc was just beautiful; Amaila goes from being a source of hatred and resentment for Zaira, to the closest thing Zaira has to family. Seeing Amalia grow into the confident, smart, capable woman she is now wierdly filled me with so much pride. Their banter-mainly from Zaira-makes me laugh so much:
_______________________________
I'm currently in that limbo-like stage where you're not really sure what to do with your life and forget how to function, because you've just finished a series you were so invested in.
So RTC, but I'd suggest reading my review of book 2 (please? 😉) in the meantime, to understand why I'm so obsessed with this series and it's characters.
________________________________
This is the most underrated series I've ever read. The first 2 books are honestly SO amaaazing. I'm so excited to read this final book!
Like the other two books, this one was layered with courtly intrigue and the threat of war/Ruven. The writing was beautiful (the quote above is evidence enough) and there was fabulous character and relationship development. I've said it before and I'll say it again, I think the unique
"Zaira cuffed my shoulder. "You fix everything that needs fixing. I break everything that needs breaking"These 2- Amalia and Zaira
Zaira looked half-ready to throw herself out of the sleigh and go storming after Ruven right now. "I don't care if he's immortal. I'll cut him into pieces, roast the pieces seperateky, and then feed the roasted bits to my dogs just so he can shit him out later."Unlike the other two, this one wasn't predictable and the climax wasn't something you approached but it instead sprung up on you. I loved how many plot twists and turns there were and most importantly the fact that I saw none of them coming. It was like riding a thrilling rollercoaster in the dark and I'm a major thrill seeker, so of course I loved every second. That was what gave this book an edge over the rest and earned it a place on my favourites shelf. This book incidentally stirred emotions within me that I typically feel when riding a rollercoaster: an underlying sense of dread but mainly exhilleration and stomach churning. And oh, it ended way too quickly, but thank you Melissa Caruso for the unforgettable ride.
_______________________________
I'm currently in that limbo-like stage where you're not really sure what to do with your life and forget how to function, because you've just finished a series you were so invested in.
So RTC, but I'd suggest reading my review of book 2 (please? 😉) in the meantime, to understand why I'm so obsessed with this series and it's characters.
________________________________
This is the most underrated series I've ever read. The first 2 books are honestly SO amaaazing. I'm so excited to read this final book!
January 30, 2022
I enjoyed the first book, The Tethered Mage. I enjoyed the smart politics and the world-building, and I really enjoyed our main character, Amalia. She is smart and witty and her arc had me emotional! She goes from being this somewhat passive daughter of La Contessa to growing into her own powerful woman.
Book two, The Defiant Heir, is the book that really hooked me into this series! We get thrown deeper into the world-building and I loved every second of it! The conclave! The Witchlords! KATHE!! All of it was amazing.
And then here, for the third and final book. This book gave me everything I wanted and didn't even know I needed. It was incredible. We start off with Amalia visiting her uncle in prison (the one that tried to kill her), because he claims to have information on Ruven's plans. And the book just races on from there!
Ruven is such a good villain. Amalia is amazing in the way she refuses to just bend over and take shit from others (especially men). And Kathe is still everything and I'm obsessed with him.
What I love most about this series is how well-rounded it is! There is so much smart politics, lots of action, fantastic world-building, a cool magic system, emotional romance. It's just a phenomenally well-written, engrossing political fantasy series and more people definitely need to read it. I loved it!
Book two, The Defiant Heir, is the book that really hooked me into this series! We get thrown deeper into the world-building and I loved every second of it! The conclave! The Witchlords! KATHE!! All of it was amazing.
And then here, for the third and final book. This book gave me everything I wanted and didn't even know I needed. It was incredible. We start off with Amalia visiting her uncle in prison (the one that tried to kill her), because he claims to have information on Ruven's plans. And the book just races on from there!
Ruven is such a good villain. Amalia is amazing in the way she refuses to just bend over and take shit from others (especially men). And Kathe is still everything and I'm obsessed with him.
What I love most about this series is how well-rounded it is! There is so much smart politics, lots of action, fantastic world-building, a cool magic system, emotional romance. It's just a phenomenally well-written, engrossing political fantasy series and more people definitely need to read it. I loved it!
April 26, 2019
The Unbound Empire, the final novel in this exceptional high fantasy series, concludes in the spectacular fashion you long all books to manage but that rarely happen to come together so superbly. Taking all the previous threads of the plot from the preceding two Swords & Fire books and combining them into a very fitting and ultimately satisfying climax to the tale. I must say, I found the politics in this beautifully-crafted fantasy world the most interesting and unusual part of it.
This is a compulsive novel full of courtly intrigue, exciting conspiracy and dark, spellbinding magic. However, it's at this time, towards the closing stages, that you really become aware of just how attached you have become to the characters and how bereft you're likely to be when it's all over. This is down to the fact that although there was plenty of action and danger the author still has time throughout to effortlessly deepen her characters and that I guess is why they feel like friends.
Each character has their own unique facets that lend themselves particularly well in this perilous, bloody adventure. There's Amalia who's intelligent and strong-minded; Zaira who is angst-ridden and struggling to harness her power to use for good; Marcello who keeps the group of friends grounded; and we leave the best until last - the glorious Kathe who is a beautiful soul both inside and out and his personality is the most developed as he is complex and three-dimensional.
The worldbuilding is also wonderfully in-depth and incredibly detailed and there are some very wise words surrounding abuse of power and whether an individual with great power is capable of policing themselves in terms of moral decision making. The Unbound Empire is a magnificent, original work of fantasy. Because of that I have no hesitation in wholeheartedly recommending this to fantasy aficionados. Simply stunning. Many thanks to Orbit for an ARC.
This is a compulsive novel full of courtly intrigue, exciting conspiracy and dark, spellbinding magic. However, it's at this time, towards the closing stages, that you really become aware of just how attached you have become to the characters and how bereft you're likely to be when it's all over. This is down to the fact that although there was plenty of action and danger the author still has time throughout to effortlessly deepen her characters and that I guess is why they feel like friends.
Each character has their own unique facets that lend themselves particularly well in this perilous, bloody adventure. There's Amalia who's intelligent and strong-minded; Zaira who is angst-ridden and struggling to harness her power to use for good; Marcello who keeps the group of friends grounded; and we leave the best until last - the glorious Kathe who is a beautiful soul both inside and out and his personality is the most developed as he is complex and three-dimensional.
The worldbuilding is also wonderfully in-depth and incredibly detailed and there are some very wise words surrounding abuse of power and whether an individual with great power is capable of policing themselves in terms of moral decision making. The Unbound Empire is a magnificent, original work of fantasy. Because of that I have no hesitation in wholeheartedly recommending this to fantasy aficionados. Simply stunning. Many thanks to Orbit for an ARC.
June 26, 2019
How I absolutely adored this fantasy series. And its not even my genre! Normally, I am not called to fantasy in the least. But I want everyone to read this trilogy and to love it as much as I did! I plan to write to the author today, even though I am busier and more stressed (on a beautiful day) than a person could or should be. I bought this book for my friends' three daughters, recommended it to a patient, and now all I can do is hope some of my Goodreads friends will take the bait.
So why did I pick up the first one? The Tethered Mage? Actually, it was in my staff recommends section at the library, and the back of it just sounded so interesting. I was kind of captivated by the concept. And the first pages hooked me. But why did I love it? First and foremost, five or six badass heroines. Women, whose strength and power lie in their love, but who know how to totally kick butt. It absolutely had a moral component, and really looks at the question of magic, and power, and individual choice, and who should be in control of it. It was actually both fascinating and moving. Loved the story. But what drew me in in the first place, was absolutely the mage- marked people, and the Falcon and Falconer relationship. And of course - totally drawn in by Zaira and Amalia, and the mother and the mother's second in command. And Terika and Estrella, and the whole shebang. Just wanted to say again, how much I loved this series. And want to promote it. And I didn't find it through you guys - just by pleasuring through my local library. Which I think is kind of neat. Kind of Shadow of the Wind-like. Where the book finds you, and you it. Time to go be a badass heroine. Take every bit of summer and savor it.
So why did I pick up the first one? The Tethered Mage? Actually, it was in my staff recommends section at the library, and the back of it just sounded so interesting. I was kind of captivated by the concept. And the first pages hooked me. But why did I love it? First and foremost, five or six badass heroines. Women, whose strength and power lie in their love, but who know how to totally kick butt. It absolutely had a moral component, and really looks at the question of magic, and power, and individual choice, and who should be in control of it. It was actually both fascinating and moving. Loved the story. But what drew me in in the first place, was absolutely the mage- marked people, and the Falcon and Falconer relationship. And of course - totally drawn in by Zaira and Amalia, and the mother and the mother's second in command. And Terika and Estrella, and the whole shebang. Just wanted to say again, how much I loved this series. And want to promote it. And I didn't find it through you guys - just by pleasuring through my local library. Which I think is kind of neat. Kind of Shadow of the Wind-like. Where the book finds you, and you it. Time to go be a badass heroine. Take every bit of summer and savor it.
October 30, 2020
Fantastic close to the trilogy and a satisfying read for the book. Magnificent!
April 22, 2019
Review from Tenacious Reader: http://www.tenaciousreader.com/2019/0...
4.5/5 stars
It’s always bittersweet when a series you enjoy comes to end. The Unbound Empire was no exception for me. The book was full of action, drama, dire threats against the empire, and balanced with great friendships (and yes, romances) that all left me a happy reader.
I enjoy Caruso’s books because for me they strike a great balance of being very easy to read and interesting plot. Sometimes as books get more complex, they get longer and sometimes slower to read because there is more to take in. And sometimes when books are “easy” to read, it can feel like there’s not much there, you just enjoy the ride as it happens. I feel like Caruso is in between. It’s not overly complex. The bad guys are bad guys (well, except Witch Lords who are originally seen as “bad” are given a different light with Kathe), but the antagonist, Lord Ruven, is definitely just a “bad guy”. There’s not really any shades of grey with him, but there doesn’t need to be. The other characters in the book have enough complexity in them to feel like they are more than just caricatures (which is something I often notice in books I find “easy to read”). There are certainly some events in the book that could fall into a “grey” area, which can keep things interesting.
I love Kathe, Amalia’s mysterious Witch Lord suitor. Witch Lords have a nasty reputation in the Serene Empire, so people find the pairing somewhat shocking. And Kathe, with his connection with crows that follow him, and help him, can have a flair for the dramatic. But his sense of humor and playfulness with Amalia makes him incredibly fun to read. The dynamic between these two, with their games, are so much fun, and Kathe’s entire attitude is just something I want more of. If Caruso takes requests for spin-off or standalone books in the series (probably not, but I’m allowed to wishful think, right?), one focused on Kathe would get my vote hands down.
As for the plot in this one, it opens with Amalia working to get her Falcon Reform Law passed. This is a very important step for her as it would make serving as a Falcon voluntary. This is huge as currently mage marked people have no choice. It is either serve or hide, neither option really allows them the choice of a normal life. But getting such a measure to pass with war knocking on the door (or border), is no easy task. The mage marked are invaluable during war time, so its a hard sell to pass a law that could potentially lose some of their greatest assets (especially their fire warlock, Zaira). But Amalia knows first hand how possessing great power and being used as a tool of war, making choices that involve life or death for other people can impact someone. And if that someone is being asked to make those choices against their will, how much harder is it then?
This is just one of the reasons Amalia can’t back down, her personality and drive to do the right thing for her friends just won’t allow it. It’s one of the many traits I love about her. I don’t want to say too much about what happens, because I’m a firm in letting the author tell as much of the story as possible, but as important as this law is, it quickly becomes overshadowed by a shocking tragedy that makes it hard to know who to trust and can shift the power of the empire.
Amalia experiences a real journey of personal growth in this book as well. She has to come to terms with her role as a leader as well as evolving her personal relationships. She gets a better understanding of herself, her position and of her friends in this one. She has come a long way from book 1 in terms of maturity.
Caruso did a wonderful job tying everything together and leaving the reader with a real sense of closure on the various plot points from the series. Everything became so clean that I almost wondered if there was a checklist she used to make sure all the boxes where marked off. Even though I can be a fan of a good open ending here and there, this was satisfying in its conclusion. That said, I would still love to read more because while everything was tied up, I just enjoyed this and wanted to keep reading.
4.5/5 stars
It’s always bittersweet when a series you enjoy comes to end. The Unbound Empire was no exception for me. The book was full of action, drama, dire threats against the empire, and balanced with great friendships (and yes, romances) that all left me a happy reader.
I enjoy Caruso’s books because for me they strike a great balance of being very easy to read and interesting plot. Sometimes as books get more complex, they get longer and sometimes slower to read because there is more to take in. And sometimes when books are “easy” to read, it can feel like there’s not much there, you just enjoy the ride as it happens. I feel like Caruso is in between. It’s not overly complex. The bad guys are bad guys (well, except Witch Lords who are originally seen as “bad” are given a different light with Kathe), but the antagonist, Lord Ruven, is definitely just a “bad guy”. There’s not really any shades of grey with him, but there doesn’t need to be. The other characters in the book have enough complexity in them to feel like they are more than just caricatures (which is something I often notice in books I find “easy to read”). There are certainly some events in the book that could fall into a “grey” area, which can keep things interesting.
I love Kathe, Amalia’s mysterious Witch Lord suitor. Witch Lords have a nasty reputation in the Serene Empire, so people find the pairing somewhat shocking. And Kathe, with his connection with crows that follow him, and help him, can have a flair for the dramatic. But his sense of humor and playfulness with Amalia makes him incredibly fun to read. The dynamic between these two, with their games, are so much fun, and Kathe’s entire attitude is just something I want more of. If Caruso takes requests for spin-off or standalone books in the series (probably not, but I’m allowed to wishful think, right?), one focused on Kathe would get my vote hands down.
As for the plot in this one, it opens with Amalia working to get her Falcon Reform Law passed. This is a very important step for her as it would make serving as a Falcon voluntary. This is huge as currently mage marked people have no choice. It is either serve or hide, neither option really allows them the choice of a normal life. But getting such a measure to pass with war knocking on the door (or border), is no easy task. The mage marked are invaluable during war time, so its a hard sell to pass a law that could potentially lose some of their greatest assets (especially their fire warlock, Zaira). But Amalia knows first hand how possessing great power and being used as a tool of war, making choices that involve life or death for other people can impact someone. And if that someone is being asked to make those choices against their will, how much harder is it then?
This is just one of the reasons Amalia can’t back down, her personality and drive to do the right thing for her friends just won’t allow it. It’s one of the many traits I love about her. I don’t want to say too much about what happens, because I’m a firm in letting the author tell as much of the story as possible, but as important as this law is, it quickly becomes overshadowed by a shocking tragedy that makes it hard to know who to trust and can shift the power of the empire.
Amalia experiences a real journey of personal growth in this book as well. She has to come to terms with her role as a leader as well as evolving her personal relationships. She gets a better understanding of herself, her position and of her friends in this one. She has come a long way from book 1 in terms of maturity.
Caruso did a wonderful job tying everything together and leaving the reader with a real sense of closure on the various plot points from the series. Everything became so clean that I almost wondered if there was a checklist she used to make sure all the boxes where marked off. Even though I can be a fan of a good open ending here and there, this was satisfying in its conclusion. That said, I would still love to read more because while everything was tied up, I just enjoyed this and wanted to keep reading.
January 17, 2020
Book 2 was great, and sure this book was good, but as a conclusion to the trilogy I wanted more.
I still do not like Zaire, she is too much in your face.
I do like Amalia, she will become a great politician.
I still do not think she and Marcello belongs together, they have zero chemistry
I do still love Kathe, he is awesome, they should totally be together, even if they can not live together.
Gotta find an evil guy and get rid of him.
Hmm, not enough of what made book 2 great.
I still do not like Zaire, she is too much in your face.
I do like Amalia, she will become a great politician.
I still do not think she and Marcello belongs together, they have zero chemistry
I do still love Kathe, he is awesome, they should totally be together, even if they can not live together.
Gotta find an evil guy and get rid of him.
Hmm, not enough of what made book 2 great.
June 11, 2019
The Unbound Empire, the third book in Melissa Caruso's Venetian-inspired Swords and Fire trilogy, is one of those rare series finales I feel was done right. It's well-paced, successes feel earned, and it fits with the rest of the series: character arcs make sense and are satisfying, and it has the humor, heart, and thoughtful storytelling that made me love this series in the first place. (And more Kathe.)
The Swords and Fire trilogy is one of my recent favorite series, and I cannot wait to read Melissa Caruso's next trilogy set in the same world as this one.
Full Review on My Website
The Swords and Fire trilogy is one of my recent favorite series, and I cannot wait to read Melissa Caruso's next trilogy set in the same world as this one.
Full Review on My Website
February 1, 2020
A triumphant end to one of my favourite recent series - Melissa Caruso dials everything up to 11 and then keeps on going. My reading notes are a joke. My heart is in bits. My face is a mess (yes, I've been crying in public again). And I'm deeply satisfied, in spite of a fleeting feeling that it had lost its way a bit in the penultimate act when everything seemed to have come to the boil only to have the heat lowered and simmer away for a bit.
...but like any good stew, it was all the tastier for it at the end.
Full review
I received a free copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review
...but like any good stew, it was all the tastier for it at the end.
Full review
I received a free copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review
May 14, 2019
I loved this series so god damn much. I wish I could have had an easier time of reading it but I binged the whole thing on my plane rides. Hopefully I'll compile an actual review soon.
January 3, 2024
4.5/5
Je termine la saga avec le coeur un peu lourd de quitter les personnages.
J’aimais tellement les personnages d’Amalia et SURTOUT de Zaira qui m’a beaucoup fait ire au fil des trois tomes !
On est sur une saga incroyable avec une intrigue politique trop trop bien. Une touche de romance (vraiment yen a pas énormément j’étais en PLS.) et un univers juste dingue en fait.
Je comprends pourquoi cette saga a tant fait parler d’elle il y a plusieurs années : elle est vraiment vraiment chouette 🥹.
Bon 4.5/5 parce que ça ne se termine pas forcément comme je l’aurai voulu. En même temps la fin est très juste, maaaais. Bref. C’est un 4.5 de boudage ✌️
Bref. Lisez les faucons de Raverra 🥹🫶
Je termine la saga avec le coeur un peu lourd de quitter les personnages.
J’aimais tellement les personnages d’Amalia et SURTOUT de Zaira qui m’a beaucoup fait ire au fil des trois tomes !
On est sur une saga incroyable avec une intrigue politique trop trop bien. Une touche de romance (vraiment yen a pas énormément j’étais en PLS.) et un univers juste dingue en fait.
Je comprends pourquoi cette saga a tant fait parler d’elle il y a plusieurs années : elle est vraiment vraiment chouette 🥹.
Bon 4.5/5 parce que ça ne se termine pas forcément comme je l’aurai voulu. En même temps la fin est très juste, maaaais. Bref. C’est un 4.5 de boudage ✌️
Bref. Lisez les faucons de Raverra 🥹🫶
March 23, 2019
Blimey, the finale to the Swords and Fire trilogy is a perfectly formed rollercoaster ride of a read, pulling together all the events of the previous novels and throwing our much loved characters into a maelstrom of often quite literal fire and fury.
Be warned, once you get a certain way into The Unbound Empire it becomes almost impossible to put down, every quiet moment Melissa Caruso offers here ends with a BOOM moment where Amalia and Zaira face yet another fight for not only their lives but just about everyone’s.
That said, the more personal dramatic moments are the heart stopping one’s, Amalia faces impossible choices at almost every turn, not just in matters of life and death but in love, both romantic and otherwise. This book throws it all at you, the author has taken time and talent to make this world and it’s inhabitants very real, so as we come to the end it is breathtakingly absorbing.
The world building is incredibly creative over the entirety of the trilogy, the political landscape complex and layered. Magic and mayhem abound throughout but there are many thought provoking themes on society and how we treat those who are seen as different which adds a huge amount of depth to the fantasy based narrative.
On a side note I adore Kathe, the Crow Lord, with the passion of a true convert, by far my favourite character even as I loved them all. I kind of hope Melissa Caruso might write a Kathe based book one day, I would LOVE to see his life before. Or after. Prequel or sequel I care not. We’ll see…ANYWAY…
Overall this is pretty much perfect. I have loved and lived every book in the series and every moment was enthralling. From the tangled interpersonal relationships, family, friends, enemies, to the world around them infused with a sense of the unknown, the addictive quality is difficult to describe.
Highly Recommended.
Be warned, once you get a certain way into The Unbound Empire it becomes almost impossible to put down, every quiet moment Melissa Caruso offers here ends with a BOOM moment where Amalia and Zaira face yet another fight for not only their lives but just about everyone’s.
That said, the more personal dramatic moments are the heart stopping one’s, Amalia faces impossible choices at almost every turn, not just in matters of life and death but in love, both romantic and otherwise. This book throws it all at you, the author has taken time and talent to make this world and it’s inhabitants very real, so as we come to the end it is breathtakingly absorbing.
The world building is incredibly creative over the entirety of the trilogy, the political landscape complex and layered. Magic and mayhem abound throughout but there are many thought provoking themes on society and how we treat those who are seen as different which adds a huge amount of depth to the fantasy based narrative.
On a side note I adore Kathe, the Crow Lord, with the passion of a true convert, by far my favourite character even as I loved them all. I kind of hope Melissa Caruso might write a Kathe based book one day, I would LOVE to see his life before. Or after. Prequel or sequel I care not. We’ll see…ANYWAY…
Overall this is pretty much perfect. I have loved and lived every book in the series and every moment was enthralling. From the tangled interpersonal relationships, family, friends, enemies, to the world around them infused with a sense of the unknown, the addictive quality is difficult to describe.
Highly Recommended.
July 7, 2019
3.5 stars.
I can't believe I didn't realise this book was out!
Really enjoyed it, would have rated it more if it wasn't so drawn out (which is the same issue I had with the previous books I think). I feel like they had the same conversations over and over; or the same thoughts.
I also kinda think there needed to be a bit more romance. I'm not sure if this is a YA, but I thought (surprisingly) that a bit more romance would have made me feel more connected to the characters.
It also didn't end well for me. I feel like I didn't get any closure (which is so not like me) and an epilogue wrapping everything up wouldn't have hurt.
Nonetheless, I really enjoyed this series as well as the magic system and political aspects and would recommend.
I can't believe I didn't realise this book was out!
Really enjoyed it, would have rated it more if it wasn't so drawn out (which is the same issue I had with the previous books I think). I feel like they had the same conversations over and over; or the same thoughts.
I also kinda think there needed to be a bit more romance. I'm not sure if this is a YA, but I thought (surprisingly) that a bit more romance would have made me feel more connected to the characters.
It also didn't end well for me. I feel like I didn't get any closure (which is so not like me) and an epilogue wrapping everything up wouldn't have hurt.
Nonetheless, I really enjoyed this series as well as the magic system and political aspects and would recommend.
August 30, 2020
Usually, when I'm reading the last book in a series, I tend to be afraid: maybe the author slaughtered the characters' personality, maybe I'll hate the ending, maybe it won't make sense, maybe it'll be awful and taint my appreciation of the entire series!
Melissa Caruso didn't disappoint me with The Defiant Heir which I thought was even better than The Tethered Mage ; I wasn't afraid she might with The Unbound Empire. I was sure I would, at least, like this book. And I loved it!
There is nothing that felt wrong in this book, nothing that bothered me or made me pause - well, maybe the fact that Amalia repeats herself a lot at some point in the book, but I was so into the story I didn't take time to roll my eyes! Everything was well, or extremely well, done!
We get back to characters we love: Amalia, Zaira, Terika, Istrella, Jerith, and so on!
Amalia is one of the rare Fantasy YA heroines that I truly love and I'm really proud of. She stands for herself, she doesn't follow what men say, she knows what's right, what's wrong and what must be done anyway. It's hard for her sometimes and she needs someone to support her for a while, but she always stands strong and does her best.
Zaira is one of these characters who don't want to look weak in front of anyone, so she hides everything she feels behind either humor or irritation. In this book, the reader sees more of her Zaira also made me laugh sometimes, mostly when she is with Terika or when she gives surnames to characters!
Istrella makes me think about Luna Lovegood: strange, eerie, but always right. She thinks outside the board and sees things others neglect. I really love her character!
I also really love Jerith, I don't really know why! Same for La Contessa, Ciardha and Lucia. The first one is just a role model to Amalia, but also someone quite mysterious. It would be great to know more about her life!
And, one of my favorite characters in this series: Kathe.
One character I definitely can't love though: Marcello.
Ruven deserves a paragraph of his own.
He is detestable, but he is not one of those villains with only evil as a purpose. He has a goal and he is prepared to do anything to reach it, even if it means killing thousands of people, or making powerful enemies. He also knows how to bring the worst out of everyone around him! I thought he was a really good villain -
I still loved the political aspect of the series!! It was really good!! And it helped keep the focus of the story/the world/the war, and not on the romance! That's also a reason why I really love this series!!
Still loved the settings (the Mews, the Imperial Palace, Raverra in general, Ardence, Vaskandar), and this Italian influence! Still loved the magical scholar vibe of some characters - the mention of multiple libraries at some point had me wanting to enter the book and search for books there! - the magic of the Falcons and the Witch Lords! I want mooooooore, and I'm glad The Obsidian Tower takes place in the same universe and, more specifically, in Vaskandar!
Finally, this book was a roller coaster of emotions! It was really suspenseful: at some point, I was really afraid some of my favorite characters might die!! I felt despair, joy, relief, fear - ! And the ending felt perfect to me!!
So, an excellent YA Fantasy series, clearly underrated when I see the number of ratings!!
Melissa Caruso didn't disappoint me with The Defiant Heir which I thought was even better than The Tethered Mage ; I wasn't afraid she might with The Unbound Empire. I was sure I would, at least, like this book. And I loved it!
There is nothing that felt wrong in this book, nothing that bothered me or made me pause - well, maybe the fact that Amalia repeats herself a lot at some point in the book, but I was so into the story I didn't take time to roll my eyes! Everything was well, or extremely well, done!
We get back to characters we love: Amalia, Zaira, Terika, Istrella, Jerith, and so on!
Amalia is one of the rare Fantasy YA heroines that I truly love and I'm really proud of. She stands for herself, she doesn't follow what men say, she knows what's right, what's wrong and what must be done anyway. It's hard for her sometimes and she needs someone to support her for a while, but she always stands strong and does her best.
Zaira is one of these characters who don't want to look weak in front of anyone, so she hides everything she feels behind either humor or irritation. In this book, the reader sees more of her Zaira also made me laugh sometimes, mostly when she is with Terika or when she gives surnames to characters!
Istrella makes me think about Luna Lovegood: strange, eerie, but always right. She thinks outside the board and sees things others neglect. I really love her character!
I also really love Jerith, I don't really know why! Same for La Contessa, Ciardha and Lucia. The first one is just a role model to Amalia, but also someone quite mysterious. It would be great to know more about her life!
And, one of my favorite characters in this series: Kathe.
One character I definitely can't love though: Marcello.
Ruven deserves a paragraph of his own.
He is detestable, but he is not one of those villains with only evil as a purpose. He has a goal and he is prepared to do anything to reach it, even if it means killing thousands of people, or making powerful enemies. He also knows how to bring the worst out of everyone around him! I thought he was a really good villain -
I still loved the political aspect of the series!! It was really good!! And it helped keep the focus of the story/the world/the war, and not on the romance! That's also a reason why I really love this series!!
Still loved the settings (the Mews, the Imperial Palace, Raverra in general, Ardence, Vaskandar), and this Italian influence! Still loved the magical scholar vibe of some characters - the mention of multiple libraries at some point had me wanting to enter the book and search for books there! - the magic of the Falcons and the Witch Lords! I want mooooooore, and I'm glad The Obsidian Tower takes place in the same universe and, more specifically, in Vaskandar!
Finally, this book was a roller coaster of emotions! It was really suspenseful: at some point, I was really afraid some of my favorite characters might die!! I felt despair, joy, relief, fear - ! And the ending felt perfect to me!!
So, an excellent YA Fantasy series, clearly underrated when I see the number of ratings!!
July 4, 2019
4.5*
There is not a dull moment in this series, you barley survived the last crisis and off to the next one and each time the stakes are higher.
This time the war is unavoidable, especially after prince Ruven stoke in heart of the Empire and almost caused to her destruction.
Amalia and Zaira realized that this time they would have to unleash the most deadly element to protect their home.
Underrated series!
There is not a dull moment in this series, you barley survived the last crisis and off to the next one and each time the stakes are higher.
This time the war is unavoidable, especially after prince Ruven stoke in heart of the Empire and almost caused to her destruction.
Amalia and Zaira realized that this time they would have to unleash the most deadly element to protect their home.
Underrated series!
October 16, 2019
*Source* Library
*Genre* Young Adult, Fantasy
*Rating* 4.0
*Thoughts*
The Unbound Empire is the third and final installment in author Melissa Caruso's Swords and Fire trilogy. The Serene Empire of Raverra has seen 50 years of peace after a 3 year war with the neighboring Witch Lords of Vaskander. But, that peace is now in jeopardy with certain Witch Lords believing now is the time to strike while the iron is hot. One of the reasons the peace has lasted so long are magical users called falcons. Falcons aka mages, are those who are born with mage marks in their eyes. Some of these mages have unimaginable powers of pure destruction.
*Full Review @ Gizmos Reviews*
https://gizmosreviews.blogspot.com/20...
*Genre* Young Adult, Fantasy
*Rating* 4.0
*Thoughts*
The Unbound Empire is the third and final installment in author Melissa Caruso's Swords and Fire trilogy. The Serene Empire of Raverra has seen 50 years of peace after a 3 year war with the neighboring Witch Lords of Vaskander. But, that peace is now in jeopardy with certain Witch Lords believing now is the time to strike while the iron is hot. One of the reasons the peace has lasted so long are magical users called falcons. Falcons aka mages, are those who are born with mage marks in their eyes. Some of these mages have unimaginable powers of pure destruction.
*Full Review @ Gizmos Reviews*
https://gizmosreviews.blogspot.com/20...
April 20, 2019
(Disclaimer: I received this book from the publisher. This has not impacted my review which is unbiased and honest.)
How can I not give this final book five stars? While the intrigue and political manipulation never ends in this book, what continuously hooks me about every book in the Swords and Fire series are the characters. I love them all for varying reasons whether it's Amalia's selfless heart, Zaira's sarcasm, or Kathe's refusal to use doors. In the course of a chapter you'll be laughing aloud, shedding a tear, your heart may break just a little more. If you've been reading this series, you will absolutely not want to miss this last book because it is a fantastic finale.
full review: https://utopia-state-of-mind.com/revi...
How can I not give this final book five stars? While the intrigue and political manipulation never ends in this book, what continuously hooks me about every book in the Swords and Fire series are the characters. I love them all for varying reasons whether it's Amalia's selfless heart, Zaira's sarcasm, or Kathe's refusal to use doors. In the course of a chapter you'll be laughing aloud, shedding a tear, your heart may break just a little more. If you've been reading this series, you will absolutely not want to miss this last book because it is a fantastic finale.
full review: https://utopia-state-of-mind.com/revi...
May 2, 2019
Swords and Fire has become, perhaps a little surprisingly, one of my more highly regarded fantasy series of late. The first book was fairly average and hit every point on the checklist of undistinguished generic fantasy, but the sequels are great. Caruso has a knack for writing likable characters and once she hit her stride the other books are chock full of stellar character development. These last two books have really built up every one of her characters amidst a backdrop of political intrigue and magical conflict, and I am seriously impressed with how far she's been able to take her characters and turn every one of them into these multifaceted, interesting players you just can't help but root for. Sad to say I'll definitely miss Amalia & co., even if this last book ends the major conflicts in a very satisfying way.
December 17, 2021
This is a satisfying ending to an amazing trilogy, with very consistent characters which I love to bits!!!
If you wanna know more about how much I love this trilogy, you can see my review on December 29, 2021 here https://youtu.be/NW2xt3fbEvw
If you wanna know more about how much I love this trilogy, you can see my review on December 29, 2021 here https://youtu.be/NW2xt3fbEvw
July 6, 2019
An average book really. I was bored at some points and almost feeling lethargic whenever I picked this up? But I got to the end of the trilogy; so there’s that
April 21, 2019
I was sent this arc via Netgalley in exchange for a honest review.
Warnings: death, blood and a bit of gore, the usual fantasy fare
Wow what a wrap up! This trilogy just got better and better. I liked the first book though some of the characters annoyed me but I noticed so much growth over the last two books I became really attached to them.
It pretty much starts where it left off from the second book but it still goes slowly enough to draw you back into the world and characters but not so slow that you're bored. I've noticed that the description has gotten a bit more flowery but I still enjoyed it, it didn't get too much.
We go by the POV of Amalia, first person. I've always had a soft spot for first person narrative. I did find it stopped me from understanding certain characters in the first book but that definitely changed in the second book. Amalia is smart and resourceful, she uses her intellect to get her out of situations and I grew very fond of her. Though sometimes her guilt got a bit much at times but it was realistic. I enjoyed watching her grow closer to Zaira, I wanted from the first book to see them become close friends and I certainly got my wish. I loved her relationship with her mother, she loves and respects her and you can tell that her mother really cares for her and her wellbeing which she shows it in subtle ways.
Zaira was a character that took me awhile to get used to, in the first book she is just so angry all the time. Though her anger is justified it got irritating to watch her constantly turning down anyone who tried to show her kindness. As you get to know her over the trilogy you get to understand why that is and I found her compelling. Her relationship with another character (no spoilers for anyone who hasn't read the second book) is just so heart-warming and that combined with her growing friendship with Amalia really helped me warm to her. Her struggles with her power and how to control it is very emotional to read.
Marcello is my least favourite character I found him bland and unfortunately that didn't change that much. I just don't know why I couldn't like him, he had his moments but he just seemed to be the ultra nice and kind love interest to me. Though in this book something very interesting happens to him that made me more interested in him.
Now for my favourite, Kathe. Any pretty guy who can offer me cuddles with baby foxes has my love. But it's not just because he's pretty and powerful. He's also complex and interesting, he's not all good and he's not all bad. He loves his land and people and will go to any extreme to protect them. His playful nature while sometimes frustrating endeared him to me and made me smile. Every time someone mentioned a game he just perked right up. I loved that we got to meet some of his Heartguard, they were awesome. I said it in my review of the second book and I'll say it again, bring on a book about Kathe's life before this trilogy! I want that so bad!
The side characters in this are also interesting and complex (with a couple of exceptions) and bring their own depth to the story. My favourites had to be Jerith and Balos, they were just great to read about. Their loyalty to each other is inspiring.
One of the other things I loved about the series was the banter and humour between the characters. It seemed sometimes the higher the stakes the funnier the dialogue gets and I appreciated that. And boy were the stakes high in this series, there were so many times I thought they had no way of winning, it certainly keeps you on edge.
I highly recommend giving this trilogy a go if you haven't already especially if you like your fantasy with magic, mayhem and politics.
Warnings: death, blood and a bit of gore, the usual fantasy fare
Wow what a wrap up! This trilogy just got better and better. I liked the first book though some of the characters annoyed me but I noticed so much growth over the last two books I became really attached to them.
It pretty much starts where it left off from the second book but it still goes slowly enough to draw you back into the world and characters but not so slow that you're bored. I've noticed that the description has gotten a bit more flowery but I still enjoyed it, it didn't get too much.
We go by the POV of Amalia, first person. I've always had a soft spot for first person narrative. I did find it stopped me from understanding certain characters in the first book but that definitely changed in the second book. Amalia is smart and resourceful, she uses her intellect to get her out of situations and I grew very fond of her. Though sometimes her guilt got a bit much at times but it was realistic. I enjoyed watching her grow closer to Zaira, I wanted from the first book to see them become close friends and I certainly got my wish. I loved her relationship with her mother, she loves and respects her and you can tell that her mother really cares for her and her wellbeing which she shows it in subtle ways.
Zaira was a character that took me awhile to get used to, in the first book she is just so angry all the time. Though her anger is justified it got irritating to watch her constantly turning down anyone who tried to show her kindness. As you get to know her over the trilogy you get to understand why that is and I found her compelling. Her relationship with another character (no spoilers for anyone who hasn't read the second book) is just so heart-warming and that combined with her growing friendship with Amalia really helped me warm to her. Her struggles with her power and how to control it is very emotional to read.
Marcello is my least favourite character I found him bland and unfortunately that didn't change that much. I just don't know why I couldn't like him, he had his moments but he just seemed to be the ultra nice and kind love interest to me. Though in this book something very interesting happens to him that made me more interested in him.
Now for my favourite, Kathe. Any pretty guy who can offer me cuddles with baby foxes has my love. But it's not just because he's pretty and powerful. He's also complex and interesting, he's not all good and he's not all bad. He loves his land and people and will go to any extreme to protect them. His playful nature while sometimes frustrating endeared him to me and made me smile. Every time someone mentioned a game he just perked right up. I loved that we got to meet some of his Heartguard, they were awesome. I said it in my review of the second book and I'll say it again, bring on a book about Kathe's life before this trilogy! I want that so bad!
The side characters in this are also interesting and complex (with a couple of exceptions) and bring their own depth to the story. My favourites had to be Jerith and Balos, they were just great to read about. Their loyalty to each other is inspiring.
One of the other things I loved about the series was the banter and humour between the characters. It seemed sometimes the higher the stakes the funnier the dialogue gets and I appreciated that. And boy were the stakes high in this series, there were so many times I thought they had no way of winning, it certainly keeps you on edge.
I highly recommend giving this trilogy a go if you haven't already especially if you like your fantasy with magic, mayhem and politics.
July 5, 2020
What a PERFECT ending to a trilogy! So fast-paced, real stakes, difficult decisions, and awesome character growth. So many different relationships in this series that show a great diversity of sexual orientations, yet they were not pointed out as abnormal or even specifically mentioned, they just WERE. That is refreshingly wonderful and needs to happen far more often in books. We do not know if some characters are bisexual, pan, or demi, we only know the gender of who they have chosen to be with, although at least one character has clear attraction to both genders (or possibly, attraction that has nothing to do with gender), but the way relationships are written, it doesn't matter to the society. People just are who they are and love who they love (except for political alliance reasons, of course. Lol). NOT EVERYONE PAIRED UP AT THE END!!!!! I loved this! It was probably one of my favorite resolutions to a romantic quandary as well.
Well done Melissa Caruso. My hats off to you for an excellent finale, and overall great trilogy. I can't wait to read whatever you come out with next.
Well done Melissa Caruso. My hats off to you for an excellent finale, and overall great trilogy. I can't wait to read whatever you come out with next.
April 27, 2019
I am 100% biased here, I love Melissa Caruso,s writing and her books, this is the final in the trilogy so you definitely cannot just jump in here you’ll be lost and confused. I highly recommend the entire trilogy not just this book. A fantastic end to a wonderful series, the world building is amazing and the characters were so strong, sassy, funny and relatable. This is an epic series you need to read
Thanks to netgalley and the publisher for a free copy for an honest opinion
Thanks to netgalley and the publisher for a free copy for an honest opinion
May 17, 2020
Solid 3.5 ⭐️. Great ending to this Triology
April 19, 2020
Bon tome avec pas mal d'actions même si je l'ai trouvé un peu en dessous des autres. La fin est prévisible mais sympa
June 20, 2021
I didn't want to fly through the finale of this trilogy, but the story was so action-packed, I couldn't help but devour each new plot development at top speed. Now, here I am with the bittersweetness of a quality ending. To cheer myself from that persistent, morose, end-of-series feeling, I am promising myself a reread of The Obsidian Tower before its sequel comes out this fall so that I can return to Vaskandar and Raverra as soon as possible.
So what did this book offer to tie up the series? Intrigue and mind games, obviously. Masquerades and wine, naturally. Flirtatious banter as political maneuvering and vice versa, certainly. Socially awkward friendships with deep emotional undercurrents, of course. And it's the last one that gets a girl all teary when she's just trying to read a book for fun.
This book added even more to the action of the previous two. There was more brawling and battling, more general running about and mayhem. It was definitely a climactic conclusion and a worthy ending of an excellent series. Fantasy fans, this series is appallingly underhyped, so check it out.
So what did this book offer to tie up the series? Intrigue and mind games, obviously. Masquerades and wine, naturally. Flirtatious banter as political maneuvering and vice versa, certainly. Socially awkward friendships with deep emotional undercurrents, of course. And it's the last one that gets a girl all teary when she's just trying to read a book for fun.
This book added even more to the action of the previous two. There was more brawling and battling, more general running about and mayhem. It was definitely a climactic conclusion and a worthy ending of an excellent series. Fantasy fans, this series is appallingly underhyped, so check it out.
August 4, 2023
Minor spoilers follow.
[3.5 stars]
For the most part, the conclusion to the Swords and Fire trilogy was very good, which I can't say for a lot of finales. There's smart politics, a truly evil villain, fun dialogue, and my emotions were wrecked several times. And the writing and pacing? Great.
I wish I could end the review there, but I have to go on a tangent regarding Kathe, who really ruined the book for me in places. (If you like Kathe, then this book will likely be a 10/10 for you) Why?
1. He's very much the idealized fantasy man. Immortal, magical, attractive! He can do no wrong, and if he does, don't worry, in the long run, he was right after all! He can help in any situation with no cost (at the last possible and most dramatic moment, of course). His subjects practically worship him.
2. No, I will never get over the fact this man is fifty years old. This is my most despised trope. Ever. At one point, Amalia, who is nineteen, see a man in his forties and thinks, "oh, it's unsettling that that guy is closer in age to Kathe than I am", umm, girl, yeah it's more than unsettling. At least I suppose a thirty-year age gap between suitors would be more common because it is a historical political match, but I doubt if Kathe actually looked like he was fifty it would be romantic at all.
3. Nothing bad ever happens to him. All of the other main and recurring supporting characters experience torture, mutilation, painful near-death experiences, moral dilemmas, and debilitating betrayals. But Kathe? He's got some past trauma that doesn't affect him that much, and one thing happens during the final showdown, but it doesn't have any lasting effects. I think he stole a good chunk of that plot armor.
The Untethered Mage: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
The Defiant Heir: ⭐⭐⭐.5
The Unbound Empire: ⭐⭐⭐.5
[3.5 stars]
For the most part, the conclusion to the Swords and Fire trilogy was very good, which I can't say for a lot of finales. There's smart politics, a truly evil villain, fun dialogue, and my emotions were wrecked several times. And the writing and pacing? Great.
I wish I could end the review there, but I have to go on a tangent regarding Kathe, who really ruined the book for me in places. (If you like Kathe, then this book will likely be a 10/10 for you) Why?
1. He's very much the idealized fantasy man. Immortal, magical, attractive! He can do no wrong, and if he does, don't worry, in the long run, he was right after all! He can help in any situation with no cost (at the last possible and most dramatic moment, of course). His subjects practically worship him.
2. No, I will never get over the fact this man is fifty years old. This is my most despised trope. Ever. At one point, Amalia, who is nineteen, see a man in his forties and thinks, "oh, it's unsettling that that guy is closer in age to Kathe than I am", umm, girl, yeah it's more than unsettling. At least I suppose a thirty-year age gap between suitors would be more common because it is a historical political match, but I doubt if Kathe actually looked like he was fifty it would be romantic at all.
3. Nothing bad ever happens to him. All of the other main and recurring supporting characters experience torture, mutilation, painful near-death experiences, moral dilemmas, and debilitating betrayals. But Kathe? He's got some past trauma that doesn't affect him that much, and one thing happens during the final showdown, but it doesn't have any lasting effects. I think he stole a good chunk of that plot armor.
The Untethered Mage: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
The Defiant Heir: ⭐⭐⭐.5
The Unbound Empire: ⭐⭐⭐.5
July 20, 2025
I am happy to say that the third book is by far the strongest in this YA epic. All the plot threads come home to roost, and many themes are explored: power, loyalty, responsibility.
Our characters get their conclusions, though many things remain open, as they do in life. I am just sad we didn't get to explore our villain more. Also, some plot points verge on the improbable, and I wanted to shake Amalia for her blind optimism, stubbornness, and unwillingness to take on her responsibilities (after all, aren't we most irked by our own flaws?).
Our characters get their conclusions, though many things remain open, as they do in life. I am just sad we didn't get to explore our villain more. Also, some plot points verge on the improbable, and I wanted to shake Amalia for her blind optimism, stubbornness, and unwillingness to take on her responsibilities (after all, aren't we most irked by our own flaws?).
March 20, 2023
Did I just finish a new political fantasy favorite? Absolutely. Am I going to have a hard time getting over it? Absolutely.
I loved this world full of magic, conspiracies and betrayals in all the ways, unexpected alliances and colorful characters! The inter-character relationships are all well tied up, the plot is great and moves along well, with just the right amount of drama without it being too forced. I have a special affection for Cat and Zaira, my two beloved bewitchers. The epilogue is a bit too open for my taste, but it's still a very pleasant read; go for it.
I loved this world full of magic, conspiracies and betrayals in all the ways, unexpected alliances and colorful characters! The inter-character relationships are all well tied up, the plot is great and moves along well, with just the right amount of drama without it being too forced. I have a special affection for Cat and Zaira, my two beloved bewitchers. The epilogue is a bit too open for my taste, but it's still a very pleasant read; go for it.
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