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Time is running out.

With two Relics now in her possession, Kaylan must claim the final three before rebel leader Bellamy De Winter does. Then she must find a way to destroy the stones, once and for all.

But the magic is different now... and so is Kaylan.

After losing so much, she has forged a new bond with the Relic. It is more than mere magic, more than just a stone. Kaylan sees the dead Lord of Edriast, the man she killed to save herself, standing by her side.

The Relic is the only one who understands her now. But every word it whispers in her ear could be a lie. Every chance she gives it could be her final error.

As Kaylan pits her power against the men who seek to take it from her, she finds herself – and those she cares for – in more danger than ever before. And through it all, the Relic claims to be her ally... But as the perils of magic become clearer, Kaylan begins to wonder: will trusting the Relic lead to victory – or to death?

Rising is the gripping final volume in Bronwyn Eley’s dark YA fantasy series, The Relic Trilogy.

468 pages, Kindle Edition

First published May 13, 2021

27 people are currently reading
116 people want to read

About the author

Bronwyn Eley

8 books91 followers
I'm a fantasy author of YA and Romantasy books, born in Australia but currently living in Edinburgh, Scotland.

My debut series THE RELIC TRILOGY is a YA series published by Talem Press, perfect for anyone who loves dark fantasy, strong heroines and dark magic.

My upcoming book THE RULE is coming in March 2025 from Pantera Press, the first in a duology. This romantasy series is 'Nevernight' meets Miss Congeniality, perfect for lovers of dramatic magic, assassins and atmospheric settings.

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Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews
Profile Image for Sofii♡ (A Book. A Thought.).
405 reviews445 followers
June 23, 2021

I really liked this conclusion; I think this is a clear case of a highly original trilogy that not many people know and undoubtedly deserves more love. In this book, we explore more the characters' thoughts in general, especially Kaylan's, who's now going through a massive change in herself and must face a last challenge. There are excellent plot twists and moments that take your breath away; I think of the three books. This one it's the most challenging and intense book so far, which leads to a great ending that I really liked .

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4/5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

You can find more of my reviews & fun content on my blog A Book. A Thought.


In this concluding book of the Relic trilogy, we accompany Kaylan and her friends in the last part of their journey to destroy the stones once and for all. But along the way, she has forged an even more intense connection with The Relic, which continues to be a questionable source for Kaylan, and even when this could be her path to victory, she doesn't know if she can fully trust it.


It's difficult to describe the third book, so this review will be pretty vague; I invite you to read my previous reviews in case you want to know more about the plot of these books. But broadly speaking, we always follow the same guiding thread, the darkness and the danger that magic represents in this world and the fragility of the human being. It's extremely interesting because, as I think I've said before, not only it's a perfect fantasy world, but it's also one of those books that focuses more than anything on mental fragility and the darkness behind people's intentions; it's fascinating and complex. The fantastical world is very solid, but it's not what stands out for me, but rather the characters and the use of the mind in these books is fantastic.

The author's style has grown a lot during the books; in this one, I highlight this point; the author manages to convey everything that the characters feel in a very raw way so that you feel committed to the journey of the main character. I believe that Kaylan's journey has made her grow a lot despite some challenges that she has still in her life. I think that she has managed to understand a lot about herself and has been able to kill some of her mental demons, and that's wonderful; at the end of the day, I'm glad where her story gone.


It isn't much else I can share, but I really invite you to read this fantastic trilogy; we follow an incredibly dark story at times that speaks a lot about mental health in some way but also explores the magic and its adverse effects on people, in addition, we go through different states together along with the characters, where we meet them in different ways, and I love that. The world's construction is outstanding, especially as we progress during each book it improves and improves, also the atmosphere is brilliant and one of my favorite things! Such a great story, which I cannot fail to recommend. Every step we take is shocking, and the author shows excellent talent by giving us incredible twists that will make you addicted to this story.
Profile Image for Jenny (Bookbookowl).
559 reviews255 followers
April 21, 2021
Thank you so much to Talem Press for sending me a copy of RISING, in exchange for an honest review!

***Rising is book 3 in the series, so my review will contain spoilers for book 1, Relic and book 2, Riven!***


I have loved the first two books in this series so much and this was an explosive conclusion!

After managing to merge two of the relics in the last book, Kaylan is on the hunt for the remaining three, in order to be able to destroy them and remove Magic from the world altogether. Some of her friends are by her side to help, but the Relic, taking the form of Lord Rennard, is there too. No-one but Kaylan can see him, and she’s not sure whether to believe his claims he’s here to help her.

Rising was full of intense action and intense emotions. After seeing these characters through two books it wasn’t easy watching them face this final battle. Smooth talking Rennard and the constant threat that Kaylan could lose herself to the magic, made for a read I didn’t want to put down.

Reviewing the third book is a little difficult, since if you’ve made it this far in the series, you already know you need to read the rest and I don’t want to give too much away about the conclusion!

I will say, if you’ve read the first two books, Relic and Riven, you NEED to get your hands on this one and if you haven’t started this series, put it on your TBR immediately!
34 reviews
May 10, 2021
So unpredictable! I didnt know what was about to happend in the end and I loved it! The last mission - a big quest - that reminded me of the ending of LOTR. (love that). A Great adventure with a bit of magic!
Profile Image for Olivia Estelle.
14 reviews1 follower
May 18, 2021
What a great ending! There were so many twists and turns that I was on the edge of my seat and couldn't put it down. Loved every second! Will miss this series, but can't wait to see what Bronwyn comes up with next!
Profile Image for Cassandra.
91 reviews5 followers
April 16, 2021
What a conclusion!
.
Rising is everything I could have ever wanted it to be. There's more heartbreak but also healing, endings and new beginnings, mystery and magic and a better understanding of it.
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I laughed, I cried (a lot) and I was on the edge of my seat, wondering how everything was going to turn out.
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Love this book, love the whole trilogy! Thank you Bronwyn Eley for this work of art
Profile Image for Iris Mens.
141 reviews6 followers
May 15, 2021
21-4-2021
Just received a digital ARC copy from the Author, which I won in a giveaway. Must get to this soon.

15-5-2021
Time is running out.

With two Relics now in her possession, Kaylan must claim the final three before rebel leader Bellamy De Winter does. Then she must find a way to destroy the stones, once and for all.

But the magic is different now... and so is Kaylan.

After losing so much, she has forged a new bond with the Relic. It is more than mere magic, more than just a stone. Kaylan sees the dead Lord of Edriast, the man she killed to save herself, standing by her side.

The Relic is the only one who understands her now. But every word it whispers in her ear could be a lie. Every chance she gives it could be her final error.

As Kaylan pits her power against the men who seek to take it from her, she finds herself – and those she cares for – in more danger than ever before. And through it all, the Relic claims to be her ally...But as the perils of magic become clearer, Kaylan begins to wonder: will trusting the Relic lead to victory – or to death?


Review
I just finished this series. It had lot of original touches. I for one have never read a fantasy novel where the main character starts out as a smithy. Kalyan might have started out as a smithy but grew into a hero through this story.
The only thing I really didn't like during this series is the constant worry for her friends. I mean I get that Kaylan wants to completely solve the war on her own, but not accepting any help from friends who are offering to help just seems weird to me in war times. This is a returning trope in many fantasy series, and it is just a me thing that I like the darker side of fantasy. The constant worrying is just not my thing.
On the other side the strong friendships and the family relationships are a great selling point for this series. You don't often see much of the heroine’s family ties in fantasy novels.

Overall, I think the first book in the series is my favorite. And I give this series a 4-star rating.

This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Ivey Byrd.
146 reviews18 followers
May 14, 2021
As expected, the conclusion of this trilogy was as surprising and emotional as expected! I really loved that we got to see Kaylan accept herself and what she has had to do in order to protect those she loves as well as the world. I enjoyed the focus on her as a person more in this book as well because sometimes readers get lost in the action and the character’s state of mind and/or development is ignored, but not in this series. Another thing that I admired about this series and specifically this book is the shocking character deaths that made the story feel more realistic. There was no real “happily ever after” when so many people that Kaylan loved were killed during her journey, and it made the story even more compelling because it didn’t sugar coat the casualties. This was a raw fantasy novel that gave me realistic outcomes rather than the usual “everyone lives” scenario. Of course, this makes for a sadder ending, but I enjoyed the emotional ride.

As far as the ending, however, I expected a more explosive climax and a more satisfying ending. I did feel like a lot of questions about Kalyan and Markus were left hanging and the ending didn’t do their relationship justice. I wanted to have more closure with the two characters and see their first meeting after she saved the world. I also felt like Markus’ character was dropped off in the middle of the book and forgotten about. On top of that, the ending scene between the two seems to be rashly thrown in to tie Markus back into the story. Though the series wasn’t focused on romance, it was a big enough theme that I felt like the ending could have been more emotional and detailed, especially given their hardships regarding the relic in previous books. The ending was acceptable and honestly, true to the characters and their journey, but I personally wanted more. Given such a grand adventure I just wanted the same type of ending.

In the end, I would recommend this series to anyone who enjoys epic fantasies with unpredictable plots because this book would be for you.

Profile Image for Nikki.
707 reviews17 followers
May 5, 2021
I received this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.

MY THOUGHTS

Hello fellow book dragon! Before you go any further, beware this is a review for the final book in a trilogy. While I will attempt to avoid any major spoilers of the previous books, it really cannot be helped. If you do not want to risk being spoiled, click away now! You can check out my spoiler-free review of the first book, RELIC, here and my interview with the author, Bronwyn Eley, here!





... Ready For It?

Yes, channeling TSwift here. THIS FINALE WAS MADNESS. RISING picks up shortly after the events of RIVEN (still my one of my favorite titles) with Kaylan in possession of two merged relics and on the hunt to secure the final three so she can destroy magic for good. To say this finale was intense would be an understatement. I was terrified for the ragtag crew I have come to love so much. And rightfully so...

Reviewing the third book in a series is so hard because I want to both shout about all the things I loved while wanting to keep everything close so readers can experience all the intensity, heartbreak, hope and healing first hand. The Relic Trilogy challenges us to face the complexities of human existence. The nuance of real relationships. The lure of power. The challenge of healing and learning to trust yourself. And ache of loss as well as forgiveness. RISING had me at the edge of my seat laughing yet heartbroken and infused with anxiety about how this all would end.

If you have read my previous reviews, you know that Kaylan is one of those characters that drove me mad with her assumptions, self-blame and taking responsibility for things that she has no business taking responsibility for entirely too often. Totally a 'me' thing but it can distract me from the story at times; however, she grew so much over this series my friends. It was really cool to see her journey. The one character that surprised me was Lord Rennard. Avoiding spoilers with this one but what a wild, unique and incredibly fascinating story arc. I have so many thoughts, someone please read and come chat with me about them!


Overall


If you have read the previous two books you already know you need to read RISING. If you are new to the series, add it to your TBR now! RISING was an incredible conclusion and honestly exceeded everything I hoped it would be. It was heartbreaking yet hopeful with an ending that was breathtaking. I loved this trilogy! I am definitely looking forward to revisiting these characters again in the future and picking up what ever Bronwyn writes next!

PS. Isn't the cover absolutely STUNNING?!?!
Profile Image for Bonnie.
357 reviews
May 13, 2021
𝟒 ★

𝐆𝐄𝐍𝐑𝐄 = Dark YA Fantasy
𝐋𝐄𝐍𝐆𝐓𝐇 = 349 pages
𝐓𝐑𝐈𝐆𝐆𝐄𝐑 𝐖𝐀𝐑𝐍𝐈𝐍𝐆𝐒 = Death, War
𝐃𝐄𝐃𝐈𝐂𝐀𝐓𝐈𝐎𝐍 = To all teachers who are vital inspirations to budding authors.
𝐑𝐄𝐋𝐄𝐀𝐒𝐄 𝐃𝐀𝐓𝐄 = May 13th

𝐒𝐘𝐍𝐎𝐏𝐒𝐈𝐒
With two Relics now in her possession, Kaylan must claim the final three before rebel leader Bellamy De Winter does. Then she must find a way to destroy the stones, once and for all before time runs out. But the magic is different now...and so is Kaylan. The Relic is the only one who understands her now. As the perils of magic become clearer, Kaylan begins to wonder: will trusting the Relic lead to victory – or to death?

**𝖳𝗁𝖺𝗇𝗄 𝗒𝗈𝗎 𝗍𝗈 𝗍𝗁𝖾 𝖺𝗎𝗍𝗁𝗈𝗋 𝖿𝗈𝗋 𝗀𝗂𝖿𝗍𝗂𝗇𝗀 𝖺𝗇 𝖠𝖱𝖢 𝖼𝗈𝗉𝗒 𝗂𝗇 𝖾𝗑𝖼𝗁𝖺𝗇𝗀𝖾 𝖿𝗈𝗋 𝖺𝗇 𝗁𝗈𝗇𝖾𝗌𝗍 𝗋𝖾𝗏𝗂𝖾𝗐.**

𝐑𝐄𝐕𝐈𝐄𝐖
This was such a gripping finale and I enjoyed every single moment.

The storyline was an intense adventure which included heartbreak, growth, inner demons, healing and new beginnings. Everything was so unpredictable as many twists and turns were included which kept me eager to continue reading to find out what would happen next! I was constantly on the edge of my seat from the emotional roller coaster this conclusion took me on.

Kalyan went through so much development in this last instalment. At times I was frustration by her utter selflessness to protect her loved ones as she tended to sacrifice herself a lot but I also admire her strength so much. The other characters made this finale just that much better! All their relationships and dynamics were written so perfectly.

The romance did drop off during this novel which didn’t appeal to me as I would’ve liked more Kalyan and Marcus but I do understand this was more about Kalyan’s healing journey and the end of her last mission.

The ending was everything I wanted.

Overall, an action packed, epic conclusion to an incredible fantasy trilogy! HIGHLY RECOMMEND The Relic Trilogy to fantasy lovers!
Author 2 books50 followers
November 30, 2022
RISING follows Kaylan as she fights to possess all the relics - and work out how to face them and the enemies in her path.

The relics take on Rennard's form and talk to her, leading her (and the reader) to question how much is real, and which side the relics are on. They seem to be playing a game of their own, passing information back and forth to the various players, setting up an endgame of their own.

Added to this that talking to a spectre no one else can see makes Kaylan's friends and allies mistrust her. It fractures some relationships as she is forced to decide between keeping and giving up the relics, their possessive, addictive nature making it hard to put them aside.

There is a cost to this book, with the major battle scene having the most number of heart-breaking moments. It was interesting to read structurally, as the big showdowns and moments I was expecting game in different places to where I'd guessed, leading to different things making up the ending, more personal fights that forced Kaylan to face her fears.
Profile Image for chelseaslibrary.
142 reviews5 followers
May 13, 2021
Thank you so much to @talempress for sending me an e-copy to review!

This was such an amazing final ending to this beautiful series! The story starts off running with adventure and yet again I just got hooked into this book.

It's so sad to see this series come to an end, but this was such an amazing read and all of the things that happened... Oh. My. Goodness! All of the yes. There was always something happening and the story flowed so well.

I think @letters_from_neverland really did a lovely job incorporating all of the changes that Kaylan has and will go through in this story.

I have so many emotions towards this series and am so glad to have read it, thank you!!!
Profile Image for a.v.steinbacher.
7 reviews5 followers
January 2, 2022
Absolutely loved the final book in the Relic series! It was gripping, exciting, breathtaking and so utterly beautiful. With stunning prose, lush world building and a plot that keeps readers on their toes.
Highly recommend!
Profile Image for Jen T.
60 reviews10 followers
April 30, 2021
4.5/5
Will update soon - full review up on blog!
Author 1 book1 follower
May 30, 2021
A really good conclusion to a great series. I'm very curious to see what the author will come up with next :)
Profile Image for Rachael Hamilton.
66 reviews
January 3, 2025
heart wrenching

No spoilers, but wow what an ending!!! I get it but poor girl went through so so much I needed more of Markus. Loved and very happy to have read this series!
Profile Image for Danielle.
114 reviews142 followers
May 11, 2021
Rising is the final book in the Relic Trilogy.

I found this to be a great ending to this series.

After joining two of the five relics, Kaylan is searching for the final three, in order to keep her promise to destroy the magic from the world. With allies in the background and friends by her side to help with the search, with Rennard still there by her side, Kaylan is starting to question his motives as to if he is there to help her or hinder her.

The fight scenes in this book were good, there was a lot of action that took place, despite Kaylan always trying to keep her friends safe and out danger and sacrificing herself to get the relics. There were a few deaths that hit hard.

Kaylan’s growth over this trilogy was something nice to see, she doesn’t stay the quiet meek girl that we met back in Relic, due to both her friends and the relic she sees, there is more to what is going on than what she we are originally led to believe, when it came to being a shadow and then taking control of one relic.

I do not want to give too much away since there is so much going on, I do highly recommend checking out this trilogy.
Profile Image for Nereid.
1,466 reviews21 followers
October 22, 2022
The power of the stones

This character driven series is full of action and adventure, magic and well fleshed out characters that you become invested in hoping they succeed in their battles against evil men like Thorn and Bellamy. The comraderie of the ship's crew, Rourke, Via and Bear and their genuine offer of assistance to Kaylan and her crew. Rourke was a great character. Kaylans journey is marred by tragedy yet she still pushes forward and against insurmountable odds she doesn't falter or give up. I really liked how even the Relic became a source of guidance and not everything is inherently evil.
Profile Image for Allison Thornton.
10 reviews2 followers
October 4, 2021
Amazing!!

What an awesome trilogy. I couldn't put it down. Such a great ending to a perfect series. I went through a roller-coaster of emotions which had me hooked the whole time. Looking forward to reading Bronwyns next book.
465 reviews
October 6, 2021
The Relic Trilogy Book 3

This is a very good set of books to read about how magic came to this world and how it was removed.
Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews

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