Poignant
This, the third book in the Taylor Neeran Chronicles, brings out so many different feelings. Happiness, sadness, anger, determination, poignancy and on and on. The series as a whole is predicated on a totally novel world. I was going to say civilisation but the Illiya and Aarden, although civilised in many ways, are also primitive. Taylor has ‘gone native’ as it used to be said. There are none of the trappings of a modern civilisation, not even chairs! The world building is exemplary! It is very easy to envision yourself there. Taylor’s character has grown and evolved to the point that she takes no nonsense from anyone and shows how ruthless she can be, especially in defence of her children and family. For her, her family includes the whole planet! It is sometimes difficult to realise that she is still only twenty.
A Xathen level Three who takes on a Xathen level Two, in fact the highest of Twos! With the enemies around her she needs to remember the old saying ‘Beware of Greeks bearing gifts!’.
Very satisfying and stays with you.