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Legacy Trilogy #3
Legacy of Light
Warfare, myth and magic collide in Legacy of Light, the spectacular conclusion to Matthew Ward's acclaimed Legacy trilogy.
For the first time in many years, the Tressian Republic and the Hadari Empire are at peace. But war never sleeps.
In Tregard, Empress Melanna Saranal struggles to protect a throne won at great cost.
In Tressia, Lord Protector Viktor Droshna seeks to harness forbidden power to restore all he's lost.
As the sins of the past are once more laid bare, every road leads to war. Darkness gathers, alliances shatter and one final battle looms. What hope remains, lies within the light.
For the first time in many years, the Tressian Republic and the Hadari Empire are at peace. But war never sleeps.
In Tregard, Empress Melanna Saranal struggles to protect a throne won at great cost.
In Tressia, Lord Protector Viktor Droshna seeks to harness forbidden power to restore all he's lost.
As the sins of the past are once more laid bare, every road leads to war. Darkness gathers, alliances shatter and one final battle looms. What hope remains, lies within the light.
801 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 19, 2021
131 people are currently reading
2200 people want to read
About the author
Matthew Ward
58 books431 followersMatthew Ward is a writer, cat-servant and owner of more musical instruments than he can actually play (and considerably more than he can play well). He’s afflicted with an obsession for old places – castles, historic cities and the London Underground chief amongst them – and should probably cultivate more interests to help expand out his author biography.
After a decade serving as a principal architect for Games Workshop’s Warhammer and Warhammer 40,000 properties, Matthew embarked on an adventure to tell stories set in worlds of his own design. He lives near Nottingham with his extremely patient wife – as well as a pride of attention-seeking cats – and writes to entertain anyone who feels there’s not enough magic in the world.
After a decade serving as a principal architect for Games Workshop’s Warhammer and Warhammer 40,000 properties, Matthew embarked on an adventure to tell stories set in worlds of his own design. He lives near Nottingham with his extremely patient wife – as well as a pride of attention-seeking cats – and writes to entertain anyone who feels there’s not enough magic in the world.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 92 reviews
August 18, 2021
When I first embarked on this series, I had an inkling that it might be one of those that sunk its hooks into me and made me care about every single character throughout. And I wasn't wrong on that account because having now finished the final book, I'm left feeling like I took an incredible journey with some close friends (and enemies) and the result was one of the most rewarding reading experiences I've had in quite some time.
LEGACY OF LIGHT delivers everything you could possibly want in a climactic finish to a series, and does it all with an absolutely breathtaking flourish. Where the first two entries Legacy of Ash and Legacy of Steel brilliantly presented the history, clandestine scheming and circumstances on how we ultimately got here, this book was a whirlwind ride teeming with consequential battles and risky pitfalls until the last page. And I must add that it was truly inspiring and fascinating to behold.
One of the best things that I can say about this book is that it is completely unpredictable and you will be put through the wringer emotionally with every chapter. There's nothing worse than an ending that ties everything up in a nice neat bow for the reader. I simply can't stand cookie cutter characters and endings. I need to bleed a little at the end of a series, and Matthew Ward dishes out some painful lumps and makes things what I would call less than comfortable. But I loved every beautiful minute of it and wouldn't have it any other way.
I also loved the fact that in this entire series things are never quite as they seem and characters sometimes don't behave the way you would expect. That aspect thankfully doesn't change in LEGACY OF LIGHT, in fact, Ward continued to keep me off balance until the eventual mind-blowing payoff. So what I'm saying is yeah this last book takes chances, imperils your darling characters, keeps you shrieking in fear as one dastardly act follows another, and never EVER apologizes for it. Those are the best books in my opinion.
I'll wrap things up by saying that this is a book and series that every reader who claims to enjoy epic fantasy should read for so many reasons. The magic is of the dark variety and rather excellent. Characters that you literally feel like you know and who you feel every anguish and joy of victory with. World-building that is complex, richly detailed, conveying a palpable sense of place that is both real and wondrous. And lastly, writing that is of the highest quality in the genre in the areas of dialogue and description. I can't say much more than just read it and find out what you've been missing. LEGACY OF LIGHT is a magnificent achievement that ends this series just as brilliantly as it began.
LEGACY OF LIGHT delivers everything you could possibly want in a climactic finish to a series, and does it all with an absolutely breathtaking flourish. Where the first two entries Legacy of Ash and Legacy of Steel brilliantly presented the history, clandestine scheming and circumstances on how we ultimately got here, this book was a whirlwind ride teeming with consequential battles and risky pitfalls until the last page. And I must add that it was truly inspiring and fascinating to behold.
One of the best things that I can say about this book is that it is completely unpredictable and you will be put through the wringer emotionally with every chapter. There's nothing worse than an ending that ties everything up in a nice neat bow for the reader. I simply can't stand cookie cutter characters and endings. I need to bleed a little at the end of a series, and Matthew Ward dishes out some painful lumps and makes things what I would call less than comfortable. But I loved every beautiful minute of it and wouldn't have it any other way.
I also loved the fact that in this entire series things are never quite as they seem and characters sometimes don't behave the way you would expect. That aspect thankfully doesn't change in LEGACY OF LIGHT, in fact, Ward continued to keep me off balance until the eventual mind-blowing payoff. So what I'm saying is yeah this last book takes chances, imperils your darling characters, keeps you shrieking in fear as one dastardly act follows another, and never EVER apologizes for it. Those are the best books in my opinion.
I'll wrap things up by saying that this is a book and series that every reader who claims to enjoy epic fantasy should read for so many reasons. The magic is of the dark variety and rather excellent. Characters that you literally feel like you know and who you feel every anguish and joy of victory with. World-building that is complex, richly detailed, conveying a palpable sense of place that is both real and wondrous. And lastly, writing that is of the highest quality in the genre in the areas of dialogue and description. I can't say much more than just read it and find out what you've been missing. LEGACY OF LIGHT is a magnificent achievement that ends this series just as brilliantly as it began.
September 16, 2021
So, we are at the end. But what the ride that had been. I have to say that in my opinion The Legacy Trilogy by Matthew Ward should be in bookstores ons shelves among Martin, Hobb, Abercrombie or Erikson. It has everything a high fantasy and a damn good story should have. An unique magic system, gods, epic fights, good prose, and a multitude of characters that aren't cliche and rarely all good or all bad, which makes them more human.
The end of trilogy was almost perfect for me. There was no story arc that would disappoint me, and though I liked some better than others, I have no complaints. The last 100 pages of the book I've read in one sitting, and I have to say, lately I can't find a much time to read so long. I know it's still a few months until the end of the year, but I think I already found my favourtie book of 2021. And Legacy Trilogy may be easily in my top 5 favourite books of all time.
Highly recommended.
The end of trilogy was almost perfect for me. There was no story arc that would disappoint me, and though I liked some better than others, I have no complaints. The last 100 pages of the book I've read in one sitting, and I have to say, lately I can't find a much time to read so long. I know it's still a few months until the end of the year, but I think I already found my favourtie book of 2021. And Legacy Trilogy may be easily in my top 5 favourite books of all time.
Highly recommended.
August 18, 2021
Read my review here: https://fanfiaddict.com/2021/08/17/bl...
Sometimes I struggle with reviews of series finales because I find it difficult to find something new to say. I have already spoken at-length about characters, plot, setting, writing style, emotional connection, etc. I try to stay away from repeating myself too much, because who wants to read that? (By the way, if you want to read my previous reviews, you can find them here: The Legacy of Ash (Book 1); The Legacy of Steel (Book 2).
In those reviews, here is what you will find: an action-packed plot with highs and lows that keep things interesting, character arcs and development that encourage an emotional connection (for better or worse), a fascinating setting that contributes to the storyline with its terrain, writing that is full of conflict and intrigue such as to make the resolution quite satisfying. And MAGIC. Everything is cloaked in gray (grey? someone corrected me on this somewhere along the line…) to the point where it is hard to find the line where the light ends and the darkness begins and self-reflection becomes a must. If you get nothing else from this review, it should be that all of those attributes combine into something unique and wonderful – a great, epic series that I highly recommend. And The Legacy of Light compliments those aspects well.
“Our darkest moments reveal us for who we are.”
I think “compliments” is a great qualifier, because I found this book to be very different from the others. I am thinking that is a me thing, as opposed to a book thing. In my opinion, the plot and character arcs took some unexpected turns. I was looking for an over-the-top action flick, and while there was some of that I think there was a lot more political maneuvering and intrigue than I thought. Maybe it is because we have been watching the John Adams series lately in my house, but this book gave me post-revolution America vibes: people vying for power, boundaries being drawn and redefined, peoples searching for identities. Do not get me wrong, there were definitely some action-y scenes and war-type things, it was just not as grandiose as I thought it would be. When I say it is “a me thing”, I say that because I when I look back at how Legacy of Steel (book 2) ended, honestly, it makes sense to go this route with the plot. I just did not anticipate it, but I think it was the right move.
Whatever malice Viktor had borne elsewhere, that morning he was again a saviour.
As characters go, everyone has evolved so much since the beginning of book 1, and it is almost like watching your kids grow up: it happens in gradients so slight that you do not even notice until you pull up a picture from 5 years ago. That is quite an emotional swing in itself, character arcs not withstanding. I have raved about Viktor in previous posts, because, in my opinion, the story is really centered around him and the decisions he makes. He is very morally ambiguous, always preaching about the greater good but often willing to sacrifice for it – be they sacrifices of his or those of others. Viktor lives in that gray area I spoke about earlier; in fact, some might say he thrives there. His story was one that surprised me in the finale, as well, and I really enjoyed the direction it.
“Glory in victory. Fortitude in defeat. Honour always. Whatever the price.”
Everything works up to a very rewarding ending, of course, and I think the quote above really describes were most everyone ended up: whether they accomplished their goals or not, honor was always first and foremost front of mind. There was glory for some, victory for others, still yet defeat handed out to a few. But, in the end, honor was awarded most. And, I think that proper given the circumstances.
Legacy of Light is a fitting conclusion to a fabulous series. The Legacy Trilogy is contemporary epic fantasy at its best. I strongly recommend it for fans of the genre
Sometimes I struggle with reviews of series finales because I find it difficult to find something new to say. I have already spoken at-length about characters, plot, setting, writing style, emotional connection, etc. I try to stay away from repeating myself too much, because who wants to read that? (By the way, if you want to read my previous reviews, you can find them here: The Legacy of Ash (Book 1); The Legacy of Steel (Book 2).
In those reviews, here is what you will find: an action-packed plot with highs and lows that keep things interesting, character arcs and development that encourage an emotional connection (for better or worse), a fascinating setting that contributes to the storyline with its terrain, writing that is full of conflict and intrigue such as to make the resolution quite satisfying. And MAGIC. Everything is cloaked in gray (grey? someone corrected me on this somewhere along the line…) to the point where it is hard to find the line where the light ends and the darkness begins and self-reflection becomes a must. If you get nothing else from this review, it should be that all of those attributes combine into something unique and wonderful – a great, epic series that I highly recommend. And The Legacy of Light compliments those aspects well.
“Our darkest moments reveal us for who we are.”
I think “compliments” is a great qualifier, because I found this book to be very different from the others. I am thinking that is a me thing, as opposed to a book thing. In my opinion, the plot and character arcs took some unexpected turns. I was looking for an over-the-top action flick, and while there was some of that I think there was a lot more political maneuvering and intrigue than I thought. Maybe it is because we have been watching the John Adams series lately in my house, but this book gave me post-revolution America vibes: people vying for power, boundaries being drawn and redefined, peoples searching for identities. Do not get me wrong, there were definitely some action-y scenes and war-type things, it was just not as grandiose as I thought it would be. When I say it is “a me thing”, I say that because I when I look back at how Legacy of Steel (book 2) ended, honestly, it makes sense to go this route with the plot. I just did not anticipate it, but I think it was the right move.
Whatever malice Viktor had borne elsewhere, that morning he was again a saviour.
As characters go, everyone has evolved so much since the beginning of book 1, and it is almost like watching your kids grow up: it happens in gradients so slight that you do not even notice until you pull up a picture from 5 years ago. That is quite an emotional swing in itself, character arcs not withstanding. I have raved about Viktor in previous posts, because, in my opinion, the story is really centered around him and the decisions he makes. He is very morally ambiguous, always preaching about the greater good but often willing to sacrifice for it – be they sacrifices of his or those of others. Viktor lives in that gray area I spoke about earlier; in fact, some might say he thrives there. His story was one that surprised me in the finale, as well, and I really enjoyed the direction it.
“Glory in victory. Fortitude in defeat. Honour always. Whatever the price.”
Everything works up to a very rewarding ending, of course, and I think the quote above really describes were most everyone ended up: whether they accomplished their goals or not, honor was always first and foremost front of mind. There was glory for some, victory for others, still yet defeat handed out to a few. But, in the end, honor was awarded most. And, I think that proper given the circumstances.
Legacy of Light is a fitting conclusion to a fabulous series. The Legacy Trilogy is contemporary epic fantasy at its best. I strongly recommend it for fans of the genre
October 25, 2021
A more subtle and character driven novel than the first two A Legacy of Light is a great ending to a trilogy I clicked with from the first page of the first book.
August 9, 2021
As with the final book in any series I've loved, I want to rate "Legacy of Light" lower, simply because it's the end and I don't want it to be! The "Legacy Trilogy" consists of 3 fairly hefty books, and the story is very worthy of taking up so many pages. Add to the great plot the brilliant writing, characters that have become more real with each book, and a world that is impossible to forget, and you have a perfect fantasy trilogy.
My thanks to the author, publisher, and NetGalley. This review was written voluntarily and is entirely my own, unbiased, opinion.
My thanks to the author, publisher, and NetGalley. This review was written voluntarily and is entirely my own, unbiased, opinion.
October 31, 2021
A slow start that roars to a fantastic finish! This deserves a proper review - but this was a great series - highly recommend! 👌
August 31, 2021
For those who like an epic, classic Sword and Sorcery story you can't go wrong with this trilogy. Especially creative dark magic wove into it from the meddling of various gods and where there are god's there's religious conflicts. Now that all three books are published it would be best reading them in sequence. That helps with the huge number of characters and places with strange names plus the convoluted politics.
There's plenty of reviews out there so I'll not waste my time repeating the praise. Well written with decent prose and character development. Clearly described battles also.
There's plenty of reviews out there so I'll not waste my time repeating the praise. Well written with decent prose and character development. Clearly described battles also.
August 31, 2021
Legacy of Light was five star awesome. Its a great end to the series.
May 22, 2022
3.5 starts Im torn with this series I don't read that much fantasy anymore but this one pulled me in the world building the covers to the magic and to the characters iv never been so connected to mostly all of them before however with no spoilers some things happened that made me want to go wtf... No! Mr. Ward is one hell of a writer his writing style it would be great if be told horror but this series will forever hold a special place in my heart.
February 12, 2023
probably my favorite book from the trilogy. that end... you know it's going to happen, at some point, but you can't accept it and when it comes you receive it as this big tragedy that you could've never seen coming because what the hell, right? i welcome the brainrot with open arms.
February 18, 2023
Now that the worldbuilding, History, conflicts have been set in book 1 and 2, Legacy of Light wraps everything perfectly. This is one book which made me care about every single one of the characters. Their struggles, emotions and decisions felt very personal. The character development since we first meet the characters is outstanding. Dark and amazing magic system, Political intrigue ongoing conflict and action packed scenes make this book unputdownable.
And as the events unfolds, nothing is predictable, and there is a great balance between the action, battles and the self-reflection/struggle for power/allegiances and betrayals. The ending was not storybook perfect, it was painful and heartbreaking but also bittersweet victory to the survivors. If you love true morally grey characters, epic fantasy series, I’ll always recommend Legacy Triology.
And as the events unfolds, nothing is predictable, and there is a great balance between the action, battles and the self-reflection/struggle for power/allegiances and betrayals. The ending was not storybook perfect, it was painful and heartbreaking but also bittersweet victory to the survivors. If you love true morally grey characters, epic fantasy series, I’ll always recommend Legacy Triology.
August 16, 2021
5 stars doesn't really cover this book, one of the reasons why I dropped it in my reviews. Needless to say this is one of the most rewarding books I have read this year and one of the best, it rounds off easily one of the best fantasy trilogies to emerge recently. Watch out for my full review coming to the blog on the 20th.
January 6, 2022
4.5/5 stars
Legacy of Light was slower to start than the earlier two installments, but around the halfway point really ramped up. For all the grand battles and far reaching implications of the book’s events, this book was a lot more intimate and closer to home with betrayals and broken allegiances im characters we’ve already grown to know in the previous two books. It’s a jumbled up entanglement of choosing sides and diverging decisions made despite all reaching towards the same goal. The story did not go where I thought or wanted it to with characters making some questionable choices, but of course I still teared up at the end because I already loved each and everyone of them. This has not been a perfect series, but it’s been a fantastic ride nonetheless.
Legacy of Light was slower to start than the earlier two installments, but around the halfway point really ramped up. For all the grand battles and far reaching implications of the book’s events, this book was a lot more intimate and closer to home with betrayals and broken allegiances im characters we’ve already grown to know in the previous two books. It’s a jumbled up entanglement of choosing sides and diverging decisions made despite all reaching towards the same goal. The story did not go where I thought or wanted it to with characters making some questionable choices, but of course I still teared up at the end because I already loved each and everyone of them. This has not been a perfect series, but it’s been a fantastic ride nonetheless.
September 3, 2024
Le ultime duecento pagine bellissime. Chiudono bene la storia, sono adrenaliniche quanto basta e ogni personaggio ha il suo momento per spiccare e ognuno di loro ha anche un finale abbastanza corretto che chiude il cerchio.
Peccato che ce ne siano 500 prima che... Passi il fatto che siamo tornati a una storia che non rispetta i punti narrativi (l'autore soprattutto ha questa mania di chiudere un capitolo con un cliffhanger e poi passare i quattro capitoli successivi a parlare di altro, così che al lettore di questo altro non gliene frega niente e nel frattempo l'interesse per il cliffhanger è scemato) il problema grosso è che se quello era il finale che voleva scrivere e che ci stava doveva impostare meglio il secondo libro e l'inizio di questo.
Perché è vero che c'erano rimaste delle cose aperte dal secondo libro che si potevano sfruttare (e che in realtà non vengono fatte, come tutta la storia di Ana) ma era anche stato predisposto un finale buono che funzionava e ti metteva le cose su una determinata carreggiata. Dovendo invece scrivere quel finale l'autore passa le prime 500 pagine a rimettere in discussione tutto quello che aveva fatto prima (vedi Viktor, che nel secondo libro sembra aver superato una certa cosa, addirittura facendo la morale a un altro personaggio, e qui ci ricasca con tutte le scarpe) inclusa la morale (dov'è finita la morale "un potere non è buono o cattivo dipende da come lo usi?").
Peccato perché le duecento pagine finali sono davvero molto buone, e ci sono stati anche dei momenti che ho adorato, ma impostate così poteva benissimo finire nel secondo libro.
Peccato che ce ne siano 500 prima che... Passi il fatto che siamo tornati a una storia che non rispetta i punti narrativi (l'autore soprattutto ha questa mania di chiudere un capitolo con un cliffhanger e poi passare i quattro capitoli successivi a parlare di altro, così che al lettore di questo altro non gliene frega niente e nel frattempo l'interesse per il cliffhanger è scemato) il problema grosso è che se quello era il finale che voleva scrivere e che ci stava doveva impostare meglio il secondo libro e l'inizio di questo.
Perché è vero che c'erano rimaste delle cose aperte dal secondo libro che si potevano sfruttare (e che in realtà non vengono fatte, come tutta la storia di Ana) ma era anche stato predisposto un finale buono che funzionava e ti metteva le cose su una determinata carreggiata. Dovendo invece scrivere quel finale l'autore passa le prime 500 pagine a rimettere in discussione tutto quello che aveva fatto prima (vedi Viktor, che nel secondo libro sembra aver superato una certa cosa, addirittura facendo la morale a un altro personaggio, e qui ci ricasca con tutte le scarpe) inclusa la morale (dov'è finita la morale "un potere non è buono o cattivo dipende da come lo usi?").
Peccato perché le duecento pagine finali sono davvero molto buone, e ci sono stati anche dei momenti che ho adorato, ma impostate così poteva benissimo finire nel secondo libro.
January 23, 2024
The first several chapters I wondered to myself about what the point of the book was as the previous one had seemingly wrapped up pretty nicely, but as with all of these trilogies I just needed to read more.
This book ended brilliantly with all the hope and loss and growth anyone could ask for.
This is an epic fantasy trilogy that brings together magic, gods, and the human experience excellently.
This book ended brilliantly with all the hope and loss and growth anyone could ask for.
This is an epic fantasy trilogy that brings together magic, gods, and the human experience excellently.
March 2, 2025
4.5/5
So many things happened as always with these books and I felt so many emotions. I liked how the arcs of the characters ended up, even with the characters I didn't care too much about. Some of my predictions sadly came true, but I like the ending quite a lot. There was also a sense of tragedy to some endings but at least in a bittersweet way. If the author ever wants to come back to this world I'd definitely read it.
So many things happened as always with these books and I felt so many emotions. I liked how the arcs of the characters ended up, even with the characters I didn't care too much about. Some of my predictions sadly came true, but I like the ending quite a lot. There was also a sense of tragedy to some endings but at least in a bittersweet way. If the author ever wants to come back to this world I'd definitely read it.
February 24, 2022
That was brilliant. A very satisfying conclusion of the Legacy trilogy. I highly recommend these, especially if your a fan of the sword and sorcery style fantasy.
I look forward to seeing what Matthew Ward does next.
Thanks to Netgalley and Publisher for the ARC
I look forward to seeing what Matthew Ward does next.
Thanks to Netgalley and Publisher for the ARC
October 18, 2021
This is a magnificent ending to a triumphant series. Over the span of a decade, I have witnessed the growth of good people trying to correct the wrongs of this world only to become the very monsters they aspired not to be in the first place. Power corrupts all, and the Gods play their petty games while manipulating mortals to do their bidding. In the east, Empress Melanna struggles to maintain the grip on her throne because the patriarchal lords and vassals that were loyal to her father now openly disregard her with their hostile and bitter remarks. In many ways, they act more like gossiping women and they’re the ones that don’t believe in women ruling. How ironic that is. Meanwhile, Viktor struggles with his own Shadow and is becoming a shadow of his once good nature. It’s not evil that corrupts him, it is the fact that greed is. Greed and Power are making him even darker than his father. It would be too complex for me to summarise the whole story, so let me tell you my thoughts.
The world is a growing shade of conflict. People are snatched up in the jaws of war, and people suffer. Magic is combined with chaos. Many characters are forced to confront the darkest truths that they cannot abide by. I often felt for Melanna in her quest to try to live a normal family life, but war and politics won’t let it happen. I also felt for Josiri, whom I think had a good arc. He was just a normal politician that became bored of the bickerings of the world and just wanted peace. Viktor refused to listen to his advice, instead of manipulating JJosiri with his magic to do what e he wanted. This is a world where morality doesn’t exist. When the Gods cannot be perfect examples, what hope do the humans of this world have? There was one character that resonated with me. Rasha. A loyal Hadari warrior that many Emperors/Empresses would want people to like in their nation. I wished there would be an off-spin series about him.
I think each character got the endings that they deserved. I honestly felt some characters got the short end of the stick, while others did well. It felt sad to close this world, and I do wish to see spin-off stories in this new and fascinating world. It’s been three years since I've been with Matthew Ward in this series, and it is well done. It’s not easy to write such a great sequel to the end of the series, but he’s done it. A solid end to a great series with great writing, great characters, and satisfying story arcs. I loved every aspect. I’d wholeheartedly recommend this. Amazing!
The world is a growing shade of conflict. People are snatched up in the jaws of war, and people suffer. Magic is combined with chaos. Many characters are forced to confront the darkest truths that they cannot abide by. I often felt for Melanna in her quest to try to live a normal family life, but war and politics won’t let it happen. I also felt for Josiri, whom I think had a good arc. He was just a normal politician that became bored of the bickerings of the world and just wanted peace. Viktor refused to listen to his advice, instead of manipulating JJosiri with his magic to do what e he wanted. This is a world where morality doesn’t exist. When the Gods cannot be perfect examples, what hope do the humans of this world have? There was one character that resonated with me. Rasha. A loyal Hadari warrior that many Emperors/Empresses would want people to like in their nation. I wished there would be an off-spin series about him.
I think each character got the endings that they deserved. I honestly felt some characters got the short end of the stick, while others did well. It felt sad to close this world, and I do wish to see spin-off stories in this new and fascinating world. It’s been three years since I've been with Matthew Ward in this series, and it is well done. It’s not easy to write such a great sequel to the end of the series, but he’s done it. A solid end to a great series with great writing, great characters, and satisfying story arcs. I loved every aspect. I’d wholeheartedly recommend this. Amazing!
August 19, 2021
4.5 Stars
Peace has come for Tressia and the Hadari, but fragile is the peace built on sins and kept by crumbling Empires.
Synopsis: The Tressian Republic and Hadari Empire have finally reached peace. But greed, ambition and power has always promised war, and beneath the peace lie men who think their ambitions pure. Empress Melanna struggles to keep her crown in Tregard, Viktor struggles to find what was lost, with internal conflict brewing and dubious decisions made -this long awaited peace may come crumbling down around them both. War is coming, rising from past sins and losses, and only the light can keep it at bay.
CW/TW: War, emotional manipulation, torture, manipulation, violence, death, gore.
Legacy Of Light, by Matthew Ward is the epic and stunning conclusion to The Legacy Trilogy!
SPOILER WARNING: This review will contain spoilers for book 1 and 2 in the trilogy!!
Legacy Of Light, by Matthew Ward is an epic and powerful conclusion to this trilogy. Viktor Akadra has become Viktor Droshna, an ode to his Dark, and is The Lord Protector of Tressia. Melanna Saranal is Empress, and fights hard to change the traditions of the Hadari, while honouring the agreement made in the God’s last bargain. In this book, some years have passed and we see the changes in the characters both physically but more importantly in their development, as well as newly formed families and alliances. The consequences of the prior war are prevalent but so is the fragility of the peace that it ended with.
Since this is the third and final book in the trilogy my review will be shorter as not to spoil anything but this book follows two main elements, Melanna’s struggle to keep her throne, and Viktor’s motivations to restore what he has lost. But as we all know by now Ward manages to draw together lots of smaller threads to create and incredible tale. Through his intricate storytelling we get more characters drawn into the spotlight in this book, from Altiris, to Sidara, to Constans and more – all characters we know and love have been brought to the front of the story and it was fantastic to see them centred while still managing to capture our beloved characters of Josiri, Anastacia, Rosa, Melanna and more. Despite the large cast, Ward never fails to give us some top class development for them all and shows how they have progressed from book1+2 to now.
I absolutely adored the story told in this book, it works incredibly well as a conclusion while also shedding light on how the Empire and Republic have and are changing. The most impressive part has to be each of the characters own changes, with surprising and strong developments from them all. The other thing I really loved about this book was that it felt, in some ways, that the story had come full circle from book one. This book truly takes everything we have seen and learnt from books 1 and 2 and weaves them all into this novel, from past sins and promises to secrets and bargains. However, we get all of this without losing any charm or originality – loose ends are tied up, but some endings are left open – there is promise and hope intwined with despair.
Not only that but the plot itself is more than a simple conclusion, it is a story of power, ambition, and family. Actually, the family element of this trilogy has always been a strong point, and I loved how it became even stronger in this book with bonds of blood and bonds of choice playing out wonderfully (I love found family after all). The plot really tugs at you in this book taking characters we have grown to love and putting them on paths we feel deeply about. Ward doesn’t shy away from risks and consequences in this book at all, sins and promises come back around and debts are paid in full . Everything we thought was good or bad is challenged, character’s actions are questionable, and we see the true cost of power.
A big part of this story is Sidara and her power of light, we see her learning more about it and trying to protect the Republic. It was fantastic to finally see her power in full use, a brilliant contrast to Viktor’s Dark. This particular duality played out incredibly well over the course of the story. I also loved that we see much more of Altiris, his new position with Josiri, and his own abilties and stubborn heart come into play. It’s so hard to discuss this without spoiling but it was so brilliant to see all of these younger characters grow into who they are and play pivital roles in this new era. However, this doesn’t mean older charcaters are forgotten and we get Josiri and Viktor’s brotherhood play out – in tension, angst and loyalty, the emotions between these two is truly remarkable and makes this story all the more emotional.
Equally Melanna’s own story in Tregard is just as promising, with her Empire suffering from internal conflict and with a certain someone watching from the woods, Melanna has more than her fair share of trouble to deal with. Add to that the conflict between her Empire and Tressia, it is truly a powerhouse conclusion. Within Melanna’s story we get to see more of other beloved characters such as Apara – which was really nicely incorporated. I really appreciated Melanna’s story in this book, her hard won throne, desires for peace, and abandonment from Ashana due to the God’s promises of letting mortals alone – she is a standout character.
Though the Gods/Goddesses are no longer allowed to interfere in mortal wars that didn’t stop their presence in the book from being just as amusing and intriguing as always with many making a return, as well as other magical characters debuting or returning. After all, deals can stll be struck and Gods/Goddesses do not forgive and forget easily. I absolutely adore this element in the books and love how it played out in this one.
The endings for all the characters in this book were truly fitting, emotional and clever. Overall, this was an explosive final installment that captured the uniquesness and magic of the first two books and weaved a powerful ending in this one. Truly clever, intricate and remarkable storytelling.
*I received an eARC via #Netgalley in exchange for an honest review! Thankyou #Orbitbooks!*
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Peace has come for Tressia and the Hadari, but fragile is the peace built on sins and kept by crumbling Empires.
Synopsis: The Tressian Republic and Hadari Empire have finally reached peace. But greed, ambition and power has always promised war, and beneath the peace lie men who think their ambitions pure. Empress Melanna struggles to keep her crown in Tregard, Viktor struggles to find what was lost, with internal conflict brewing and dubious decisions made -this long awaited peace may come crumbling down around them both. War is coming, rising from past sins and losses, and only the light can keep it at bay.
CW/TW: War, emotional manipulation, torture, manipulation, violence, death, gore.
Legacy Of Light, by Matthew Ward is the epic and stunning conclusion to The Legacy Trilogy!
SPOILER WARNING: This review will contain spoilers for book 1 and 2 in the trilogy!!
Legacy Of Light, by Matthew Ward is an epic and powerful conclusion to this trilogy. Viktor Akadra has become Viktor Droshna, an ode to his Dark, and is The Lord Protector of Tressia. Melanna Saranal is Empress, and fights hard to change the traditions of the Hadari, while honouring the agreement made in the God’s last bargain. In this book, some years have passed and we see the changes in the characters both physically but more importantly in their development, as well as newly formed families and alliances. The consequences of the prior war are prevalent but so is the fragility of the peace that it ended with.
Since this is the third and final book in the trilogy my review will be shorter as not to spoil anything but this book follows two main elements, Melanna’s struggle to keep her throne, and Viktor’s motivations to restore what he has lost. But as we all know by now Ward manages to draw together lots of smaller threads to create and incredible tale. Through his intricate storytelling we get more characters drawn into the spotlight in this book, from Altiris, to Sidara, to Constans and more – all characters we know and love have been brought to the front of the story and it was fantastic to see them centred while still managing to capture our beloved characters of Josiri, Anastacia, Rosa, Melanna and more. Despite the large cast, Ward never fails to give us some top class development for them all and shows how they have progressed from book1+2 to now.
I absolutely adored the story told in this book, it works incredibly well as a conclusion while also shedding light on how the Empire and Republic have and are changing. The most impressive part has to be each of the characters own changes, with surprising and strong developments from them all. The other thing I really loved about this book was that it felt, in some ways, that the story had come full circle from book one. This book truly takes everything we have seen and learnt from books 1 and 2 and weaves them all into this novel, from past sins and promises to secrets and bargains. However, we get all of this without losing any charm or originality – loose ends are tied up, but some endings are left open – there is promise and hope intwined with despair.
Not only that but the plot itself is more than a simple conclusion, it is a story of power, ambition, and family. Actually, the family element of this trilogy has always been a strong point, and I loved how it became even stronger in this book with bonds of blood and bonds of choice playing out wonderfully (I love found family after all). The plot really tugs at you in this book taking characters we have grown to love and putting them on paths we feel deeply about. Ward doesn’t shy away from risks and consequences in this book at all, sins and promises come back around and debts are paid in full . Everything we thought was good or bad is challenged, character’s actions are questionable, and we see the true cost of power.
A big part of this story is Sidara and her power of light, we see her learning more about it and trying to protect the Republic. It was fantastic to finally see her power in full use, a brilliant contrast to Viktor’s Dark. This particular duality played out incredibly well over the course of the story. I also loved that we see much more of Altiris, his new position with Josiri, and his own abilties and stubborn heart come into play. It’s so hard to discuss this without spoiling but it was so brilliant to see all of these younger characters grow into who they are and play pivital roles in this new era. However, this doesn’t mean older charcaters are forgotten and we get Josiri and Viktor’s brotherhood play out – in tension, angst and loyalty, the emotions between these two is truly remarkable and makes this story all the more emotional.
Equally Melanna’s own story in Tregard is just as promising, with her Empire suffering from internal conflict and with a certain someone watching from the woods, Melanna has more than her fair share of trouble to deal with. Add to that the conflict between her Empire and Tressia, it is truly a powerhouse conclusion. Within Melanna’s story we get to see more of other beloved characters such as Apara – which was really nicely incorporated. I really appreciated Melanna’s story in this book, her hard won throne, desires for peace, and abandonment from Ashana due to the God’s promises of letting mortals alone – she is a standout character.
Though the Gods/Goddesses are no longer allowed to interfere in mortal wars that didn’t stop their presence in the book from being just as amusing and intriguing as always with many making a return, as well as other magical characters debuting or returning. After all, deals can stll be struck and Gods/Goddesses do not forgive and forget easily. I absolutely adore this element in the books and love how it played out in this one.
The endings for all the characters in this book were truly fitting, emotional and clever. Overall, this was an explosive final installment that captured the uniquesness and magic of the first two books and weaved a powerful ending in this one. Truly clever, intricate and remarkable storytelling.
*I received an eARC via #Netgalley in exchange for an honest review! Thankyou #Orbitbooks!*
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October 13, 2021
This final book really put The Legacy Trilogy on the list of the best fantasy series ever, Matthew Ward is an incredible talent and I can’t wait to read more of his work in the future.
December 10, 2021
Easy five stars.
Matthew Ward packed more action, entertainment, and character growth into a trilogy than most authors manage in a series twice as long. This is epic fantasy at its best. Huge cast of varied characters, unique and detailed world building, high stakes, and great action. All without losing the personal investment in the individuals involved in the conflict.
There are so many things Ward does well, including some great plotting, but his characters absolutely are the highlight. Kurkas, Ana, Rosa, Josiri, Viktor, Apara, there are so many truly great characters that will stay with me for a long time. All of them felt real, with amazing depth. None of them were simple good or evil, Ward did a great job of showing how complex real people are. Watching them grow from the start of the series to the end was a joy. I genuinely can’t think of another current fantasy author who writes better characters.
After this series, Ward is unquestionably one of my favorite current fantasy authors, alongside others like James Islington, John Gwynne, and Brandon Sanderson.
Matthew Ward packed more action, entertainment, and character growth into a trilogy than most authors manage in a series twice as long. This is epic fantasy at its best. Huge cast of varied characters, unique and detailed world building, high stakes, and great action. All without losing the personal investment in the individuals involved in the conflict.
There are so many things Ward does well, including some great plotting, but his characters absolutely are the highlight. Kurkas, Ana, Rosa, Josiri, Viktor, Apara, there are so many truly great characters that will stay with me for a long time. All of them felt real, with amazing depth. None of them were simple good or evil, Ward did a great job of showing how complex real people are. Watching them grow from the start of the series to the end was a joy. I genuinely can’t think of another current fantasy author who writes better characters.
After this series, Ward is unquestionably one of my favorite current fantasy authors, alongside others like James Islington, John Gwynne, and Brandon Sanderson.
August 13, 2021
One Sentence Summary: Tressia and the Hadari Empire have settled into a tenuous peace, but the Empire is ill at ease and Tressia might just be ruled by the Dark.
Warning: Likely spoilers for Legacy of Ash and Legacy of Steel.
Overall
Legacy of Light is the final volume in the Legacy Trilogy. It neatly and beautifully wraps up all the character arcs, whether major or minor, and leaves a door open for more stories. It also wraps up the overarching story that I felt was a little buried under all the things happening through the entire second book, but it came back full force in this one. Overall, this was a very fitting end as it brought the story full circle like a hero’s journey. At times it felt a little like the story was drawn out or meandering and maybe a little plot heavy, but the ending helped make up for it in a way that made me cry.
Extended Thoughts
It’s been five years since the events of Legacy of Steel and the Tressian Republic and Hadari Empire hold a tenuous peace, though the Eastshires are in dispute.
In the Tressian Republic, Viktor Akadra has become the Lord Protector and rules the city with his shadow at his beck and call. But those close to him, those he calls friends, see him changing, see his shadow taking over, and see the city suffering. Josiri, his closest friend, has become complacent, but it might not be at his own doing. Altiris, lieutenant of Josiri’s hearthguard has become close to Josiri, but, as a southwealder, will always feel different from the northwealders he now lives around and his youth makes him naive and trusting. With the Eastshires in jeopardy of being stolen by the Hadari, Viktor has no choice but to reclaim them, though he’ll do it on his own terms and in his own way no matter how his friends try to dissuade him, risking the Light and Tressia.
In the Hadari Empire, Melanna has settled in, though her rule does not go unchallenged. Now a mother, she works tirelessly to not only secure her rule, but her daughter’s. As challenge comes forth, Melanna must become warrior again with unlikely comrades by her side. But Melanna has always turned more to the gods than the Tressians ever have, and she’ll need them more than ever, at a cost.
And the Raven, well, he has something to say about the havoc Tressia decides to wreck on his realm.
The Legacy Trilogy is a bloody, brutal one full of sword fights and battle and war. Sometimes it felt like the pages were dripping with blood. Considering I dislike violence, I’ve spent the past couple of years questioning why I even wanted to start reading this series. It’s also incredibly long, with all being at or close to 800 pages. There must have been some reason for me to keep returning, and I think this final book proved to me exactly why.
After Legacy of Steel, I wasn’t quite sure what the third book could offer. After all, I couldn’t shake the feeling the second book had all the makings of a third book. I was afraid Legacy of Light would feel like an 800 page long epilogue. Well, at times it did. The first half was slow with no real major advancements, no big events. There was nothing that said “the story is starting now.” It felt more like a series of events leading up to something, but each event died off fairly quickly. It was like a string of events and the reader was swinging from one to the next. But I had a hard time seeing where it was all going.
And then the second half hit and suddenly I didn’t feel like I was reading an epilogue anymore. Legacy of Light finally became its own story. It finally closed out the major story arc that felt a little buried through the entire series. It became a true light versus dark story. It was also a fitting conclusion to all the characters. I really liked that it gave endings and beginnings to all of the major characters and even some of the more minor ones while also opening the possibility of more stories in this world.
In terms of world building, I don’t feel there was really anything left to explore. Actually, it felt more narrowed than the world explored in the second book. But it still managed to make me feel fully immersed and engaged with not just the landscape but also when it came to the divine. The gods weren’t quite as present, but they became more interesting and it was fascinating to get to explore the Otherworld. What I really love about this world is that it feels very familiar, but there’s a touch of the exotic, and I never feel I can pin down what the Hadari Empire has been inspired by. The world building has been so consistent from book to book and it’s easy to feel transported and to get lost.
What really shone in this book, though, were the characters. It felt more character-driven than the other two and I loved that it neatly closed out all of their arcs. After spending about 2370 pages with them, they felt so familiar and, as some of the arcs came to a close, I couldn’t help but cry a little. I guess that happens when you spend so many pages invested in them? There are so many characters, but I love how some of the minor ones really got under my skin and became almost like beloved friends. I loved how they were all so unique with so many different things motivating them. They were all amazing, and now I find it difficult to say good bye to them.
Legacy of Light is a fitting end to the trilogy. It neatly ties up the story while also leaving a door open. I loved that reading this felt like an immersive experience and that the world pulled me in. It was, of course, bloody and deadly. There’s no shortage of people dying and sacrificing themselves, but there are also quieter, beautiful moments and moments where characters are faced with the truth of themselves. In some ways it felt like an overly long epilogue, but, as long as I thought of it as a story about the characters, it felt less like one. Legacy of Light is focused on the characters and less so on the plot, creating an ending that has the potential to tug at heartstrings.
Thank you to Angela Man at Orbit and NetGalley for a review copy. All opinions expressed are my own.
Warning: Likely spoilers for Legacy of Ash and Legacy of Steel.
Overall
Legacy of Light is the final volume in the Legacy Trilogy. It neatly and beautifully wraps up all the character arcs, whether major or minor, and leaves a door open for more stories. It also wraps up the overarching story that I felt was a little buried under all the things happening through the entire second book, but it came back full force in this one. Overall, this was a very fitting end as it brought the story full circle like a hero’s journey. At times it felt a little like the story was drawn out or meandering and maybe a little plot heavy, but the ending helped make up for it in a way that made me cry.
Extended Thoughts
It’s been five years since the events of Legacy of Steel and the Tressian Republic and Hadari Empire hold a tenuous peace, though the Eastshires are in dispute.
In the Tressian Republic, Viktor Akadra has become the Lord Protector and rules the city with his shadow at his beck and call. But those close to him, those he calls friends, see him changing, see his shadow taking over, and see the city suffering. Josiri, his closest friend, has become complacent, but it might not be at his own doing. Altiris, lieutenant of Josiri’s hearthguard has become close to Josiri, but, as a southwealder, will always feel different from the northwealders he now lives around and his youth makes him naive and trusting. With the Eastshires in jeopardy of being stolen by the Hadari, Viktor has no choice but to reclaim them, though he’ll do it on his own terms and in his own way no matter how his friends try to dissuade him, risking the Light and Tressia.
In the Hadari Empire, Melanna has settled in, though her rule does not go unchallenged. Now a mother, she works tirelessly to not only secure her rule, but her daughter’s. As challenge comes forth, Melanna must become warrior again with unlikely comrades by her side. But Melanna has always turned more to the gods than the Tressians ever have, and she’ll need them more than ever, at a cost.
And the Raven, well, he has something to say about the havoc Tressia decides to wreck on his realm.
The Legacy Trilogy is a bloody, brutal one full of sword fights and battle and war. Sometimes it felt like the pages were dripping with blood. Considering I dislike violence, I’ve spent the past couple of years questioning why I even wanted to start reading this series. It’s also incredibly long, with all being at or close to 800 pages. There must have been some reason for me to keep returning, and I think this final book proved to me exactly why.
After Legacy of Steel, I wasn’t quite sure what the third book could offer. After all, I couldn’t shake the feeling the second book had all the makings of a third book. I was afraid Legacy of Light would feel like an 800 page long epilogue. Well, at times it did. The first half was slow with no real major advancements, no big events. There was nothing that said “the story is starting now.” It felt more like a series of events leading up to something, but each event died off fairly quickly. It was like a string of events and the reader was swinging from one to the next. But I had a hard time seeing where it was all going.
And then the second half hit and suddenly I didn’t feel like I was reading an epilogue anymore. Legacy of Light finally became its own story. It finally closed out the major story arc that felt a little buried through the entire series. It became a true light versus dark story. It was also a fitting conclusion to all the characters. I really liked that it gave endings and beginnings to all of the major characters and even some of the more minor ones while also opening the possibility of more stories in this world.
In terms of world building, I don’t feel there was really anything left to explore. Actually, it felt more narrowed than the world explored in the second book. But it still managed to make me feel fully immersed and engaged with not just the landscape but also when it came to the divine. The gods weren’t quite as present, but they became more interesting and it was fascinating to get to explore the Otherworld. What I really love about this world is that it feels very familiar, but there’s a touch of the exotic, and I never feel I can pin down what the Hadari Empire has been inspired by. The world building has been so consistent from book to book and it’s easy to feel transported and to get lost.
What really shone in this book, though, were the characters. It felt more character-driven than the other two and I loved that it neatly closed out all of their arcs. After spending about 2370 pages with them, they felt so familiar and, as some of the arcs came to a close, I couldn’t help but cry a little. I guess that happens when you spend so many pages invested in them? There are so many characters, but I love how some of the minor ones really got under my skin and became almost like beloved friends. I loved how they were all so unique with so many different things motivating them. They were all amazing, and now I find it difficult to say good bye to them.
Legacy of Light is a fitting end to the trilogy. It neatly ties up the story while also leaving a door open. I loved that reading this felt like an immersive experience and that the world pulled me in. It was, of course, bloody and deadly. There’s no shortage of people dying and sacrificing themselves, but there are also quieter, beautiful moments and moments where characters are faced with the truth of themselves. In some ways it felt like an overly long epilogue, but, as long as I thought of it as a story about the characters, it felt less like one. Legacy of Light is focused on the characters and less so on the plot, creating an ending that has the potential to tug at heartstrings.
Thank you to Angela Man at Orbit and NetGalley for a review copy. All opinions expressed are my own.
October 16, 2021
Epic, stunning, dark, and so incredible conclusion of the trilogy! I loved this book so much, from the first page to the very last. Matthew Ward has a brilliant writing style, and I enjoyed reading very much! Fabulous world-building and epic war scenes just made me to sank in this book for hours. There are luxurious, deep and complex characters that play a twisting part in the story. Things are never certain with each of them, so I could see fabulous ascends of some and devastating fall of others.
This series deserved to be loved by everyone who enjoys high fantasy stories with magic, political intrigues, complex characters and so bloody twisting plot.
Solid five stars!
This series deserved to be loved by everyone who enjoys high fantasy stories with magic, political intrigues, complex characters and so bloody twisting plot.
Solid five stars!
September 7, 2021
At times a bit long winded, but in the end it all comes together in a glorious endgame.
At least till the first half of this book I still had hope for one of the main protagonists/antagonists, but it was in vain... almost.
Only critique: I had a hard time getting back into the story. A recap of the first two volumes would have been nice.
At least till the first half of this book I still had hope for one of the main protagonists/antagonists, but it was in vain... almost.
Only critique: I had a hard time getting back into the story. A recap of the first two volumes would have been nice.
August 16, 2021
Enthralling. I have no other words to describe Legacy of Light by Matthew Ward. Fantasy has never been my genre of choice, as now that I am older, I have trouble turning off the logical part of my brain. But I became completely invested in Legacy of Light. Mind, body, and soul. Maybe that is cliché to say, and perhaps I am hyperbolizing—but not by much. I read Legacy of Light in massive chunks of 100 pages or more. In one sitting, I read the last half the book. I could not help it. Legacy of Light by Matthew Ward is George R.R. Martin-level imagination, believability, and thrill.
I am a massive Game of Thrones fan. I have loved the novels since my father literally dropped the first book on my head and said, “Read this, you’ll like it.” The show—for all its faults—captured my attention in the same manner, besides the last season. It is safe to say most Game of Thrones followers feel the same way. Without too many spoilers, what irritated me most: The sudden emergence of a certain character’s madness. No real warning, just…a flip of a switch. No explanation. No descent into hysteria. Nothing. A character went from caring about others and wanting to protect life to indiscriminately killing civilians.
Ward did not make the same mistake in Legacy of Light. As one character tumbled farther from reality, their reasoning still seemed entirely rational. There is no flip. Nothing that left me perplexed and confused. Everything about this element of the novel’s plot was written with flawless perfection. When watching the final season of Game of Thrones, I wanted to throw something at my TV because nothing made sense. With Legacy of Light, I desired to throw the novel out of irritation at myself because I had not seen it sooner.
Like Legacy of Ash and Legacy of Steel, Ward filled the final book of his trilogy with battles galore. I grew a bit tired of reading about people killing each other, but none of the fighting was out of place. It never felt like he said, “I need something to fill pages. Let’s just have a battle; that’ll do it.” The tale flowed from one page to the next like a river carving out a canyon. Perhaps Ward could have shortened some of the scenes—as it reminded me a bit of the massive battle in the final Hobbit movie. Swords and daggers and blood and magic, and it could have been expressed just as well in ten pages versus fifty. But at the same time, Ward’s writing style drew me in, and I never wanted them to end.
Only one element—a very prominent element, mind you—in Legacy of Light made me squirm: dark sorcery. A lot of it. In fact, I would maybe even say the novel uses it as its foundation. Even with the darkness, Ward included light. Hope. Humor. Witticism. Clever conversations. Everything about Legacy of Light was absolutely brilliant, and I can’t wait to read the trilogy again to see if I missed anything. Because like any epic fantasy writer, I am certain Ward included snippets of information that hinted to a certain future.
I don’t usually post on Twitter about the novels I am reading, but I kept a whole stream going during Legacy of Light. It featured all of my reactions, including one where I pled the author to “stop giving my heart conniptions. It can only handle this for so long.” I was shocked to see he responded: “I can make no promises.” It’s a good thing he didn’t, because he killed my favorite character.
I should’ve known that would happen.
But Ward did it in such a perfect way that I find I can’t be mad at him for it.
Bravo, Matthew Ward. Bravo.
*Note: I received a free copy of this novel from the publisher in exchange for my honest review. All views expressed are my own.
I am a massive Game of Thrones fan. I have loved the novels since my father literally dropped the first book on my head and said, “Read this, you’ll like it.” The show—for all its faults—captured my attention in the same manner, besides the last season. It is safe to say most Game of Thrones followers feel the same way. Without too many spoilers, what irritated me most: The sudden emergence of a certain character’s madness. No real warning, just…a flip of a switch. No explanation. No descent into hysteria. Nothing. A character went from caring about others and wanting to protect life to indiscriminately killing civilians.
Ward did not make the same mistake in Legacy of Light. As one character tumbled farther from reality, their reasoning still seemed entirely rational. There is no flip. Nothing that left me perplexed and confused. Everything about this element of the novel’s plot was written with flawless perfection. When watching the final season of Game of Thrones, I wanted to throw something at my TV because nothing made sense. With Legacy of Light, I desired to throw the novel out of irritation at myself because I had not seen it sooner.
Like Legacy of Ash and Legacy of Steel, Ward filled the final book of his trilogy with battles galore. I grew a bit tired of reading about people killing each other, but none of the fighting was out of place. It never felt like he said, “I need something to fill pages. Let’s just have a battle; that’ll do it.” The tale flowed from one page to the next like a river carving out a canyon. Perhaps Ward could have shortened some of the scenes—as it reminded me a bit of the massive battle in the final Hobbit movie. Swords and daggers and blood and magic, and it could have been expressed just as well in ten pages versus fifty. But at the same time, Ward’s writing style drew me in, and I never wanted them to end.
Only one element—a very prominent element, mind you—in Legacy of Light made me squirm: dark sorcery. A lot of it. In fact, I would maybe even say the novel uses it as its foundation. Even with the darkness, Ward included light. Hope. Humor. Witticism. Clever conversations. Everything about Legacy of Light was absolutely brilliant, and I can’t wait to read the trilogy again to see if I missed anything. Because like any epic fantasy writer, I am certain Ward included snippets of information that hinted to a certain future.
I don’t usually post on Twitter about the novels I am reading, but I kept a whole stream going during Legacy of Light. It featured all of my reactions, including one where I pled the author to “stop giving my heart conniptions. It can only handle this for so long.” I was shocked to see he responded: “I can make no promises.” It’s a good thing he didn’t, because he killed my favorite character.
I should’ve known that would happen.
But Ward did it in such a perfect way that I find I can’t be mad at him for it.
Bravo, Matthew Ward. Bravo.
*Note: I received a free copy of this novel from the publisher in exchange for my honest review. All views expressed are my own.
November 9, 2021
The final book in the Legacy series by Matthew Ward. A thrilling conclusion that still leaves some room open for more stories to be told within this world. I’ll keep this as spoiler free as possible.
We have a five year time gap from the end of Legacy of Steel to the beginning of this novel. In that time, the politics of the world have shifted, and our main cast have found themselves in different stations of life.
Legacy of Light is filled with plenty of character struggles and disagreements, to the point that I became conflicted. These characters who were once allies and close friends, now have their bonds being tested and fractured. Nolan’s The Dark Knight quote “You either die a hero, or live long enough to see yourself become the villain” becomes apt throughout the course of this novel. With the ground work being laid in the previous two instalments, Ward is able to make this as character driven as possible, and the conflicts within this one are gut wrenching and personal.
Viktor and Josiri’s stories were filled with inner turmoil and contemplations, and the disagreement between these characters was compelling and led to some inner struggles of my own. These characters I’ve been following for the previous two books are now at odds, and I had no idea who’s side to take. Ward did a wonderful job of creating this world and these characters, and then tearing them apart and making the reader try to figure out who’s side they were on.
As characters take sides of the conflict, we begin to see once favourable characters perform tactics and actions that are hard to witness. Their motivations are understandable though, and it never felt like a heel turn. These shifts felt believable in the setting and for the events that are occurring.
My only negative is that the pacing at the beginning was quite slow, but when the plot gets going, it moves briskly and is filled with action, politics, and losses.
We have a five year time gap from the end of Legacy of Steel to the beginning of this novel. In that time, the politics of the world have shifted, and our main cast have found themselves in different stations of life.
Legacy of Light is filled with plenty of character struggles and disagreements, to the point that I became conflicted. These characters who were once allies and close friends, now have their bonds being tested and fractured. Nolan’s The Dark Knight quote “You either die a hero, or live long enough to see yourself become the villain” becomes apt throughout the course of this novel. With the ground work being laid in the previous two instalments, Ward is able to make this as character driven as possible, and the conflicts within this one are gut wrenching and personal.
Viktor and Josiri’s stories were filled with inner turmoil and contemplations, and the disagreement between these characters was compelling and led to some inner struggles of my own. These characters I’ve been following for the previous two books are now at odds, and I had no idea who’s side to take. Ward did a wonderful job of creating this world and these characters, and then tearing them apart and making the reader try to figure out who’s side they were on.
As characters take sides of the conflict, we begin to see once favourable characters perform tactics and actions that are hard to witness. Their motivations are understandable though, and it never felt like a heel turn. These shifts felt believable in the setting and for the events that are occurring.
My only negative is that the pacing at the beginning was quite slow, but when the plot gets going, it moves briskly and is filled with action, politics, and losses.
February 5, 2022
Oh what an ending. Only gods prevail, mortal doesn't. How apt. So many wars, so many deaths and so many betrayals.
One of those rare trilogies that doesn't drop off after a book or had the mid book slog syndrome.
This is a highly recommended trilogy for those who love a little magic, a lot of politics and wars.
One of those rare trilogies that doesn't drop off after a book or had the mid book slog syndrome.
This is a highly recommended trilogy for those who love a little magic, a lot of politics and wars.
February 28, 2022
The book begins with 4 pages of names and details that feels like such an info dump that I couldn't take any of it in. Unfortunately the writing style didn't suit me, I found the plot quite slow and I tried to persevere but I DNF at around 35%
August 22, 2022
3.5/5. Sleep is now a thing I briefly remember exists but for now insomnia reigns so having a big chonky book like this is a good way to pass the time. I'm glad that this story doesn't jump in right away from where the last book ended. Time has passed and political tensions have been percolating for quite some time now. A few of the characters seen in the other books have grown up and are able to be more substantial characters this time around. Overall its a satisfying trilogy and I liked it.
January 5, 2023
This series as a whole does so many things wrong, but for all its missteps, it tells such a good story. This has such a strong ending that offsets many of the issues in the rest of the book. I'd say worth a read.
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