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The City Between #10
Between Kings
G’day. I’m Pet. Heirling. Biter of fae lords. Trouble.
I have a lot of names these days—including my own, real name. Unfortunately for me, someone else knows that name too; not to mention the names of my other heirling friends. Now those heirling friends have disappeared, stolen by the current King Behind for a fight to the death where only one contender to the throne remains.
The rules say there’s no way in and only one way out of that fight, but I’ve always preferred to work outside the rules. I just have to trust my friends to help each other stay alive long enough for me to get them out—without becoming a contender for the throne myself.
Because one thing is for sure: I am absolutely not planning on being the next King Behind.
I have a lot of names these days—including my own, real name. Unfortunately for me, someone else knows that name too; not to mention the names of my other heirling friends. Now those heirling friends have disappeared, stolen by the current King Behind for a fight to the death where only one contender to the throne remains.
The rules say there’s no way in and only one way out of that fight, but I’ve always preferred to work outside the rules. I just have to trust my friends to help each other stay alive long enough for me to get them out—without becoming a contender for the throne myself.
Because one thing is for sure: I am absolutely not planning on being the next King Behind.
273 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 31, 2021
42 people are currently reading
239 people want to read
About the author
W.R. Gingell
46 books1,080 followersW.R. Gingell is a Tasmanian author of urban fantasy, fairy-tale retellings, and madcap science fiction who doesn’t seem to be able to write a book without a body suddenly turning up. She solemnly swears that all such bodies are strictly fictional in nature.
W.R. spends her time reading, drinking a truly ridiculous amount of tea, and slouching in front of the fire to write. Like Peter Pan, she never really grew up, and is still occasionally to be found climbing trees.
GOODREADS FRIEND POLICY: I don't tend to friend anyone unless they're a personal friend or someone from my close author circle. I have a limited social battery which needs constant care. If you want to keep up with my reading/writing, you can absolutely follow me here or on pretty much any social media site.
W.R. spends her time reading, drinking a truly ridiculous amount of tea, and slouching in front of the fire to write. Like Peter Pan, she never really grew up, and is still occasionally to be found climbing trees.
GOODREADS FRIEND POLICY: I don't tend to friend anyone unless they're a personal friend or someone from my close author circle. I have a limited social battery which needs constant care. If you want to keep up with my reading/writing, you can absolutely follow me here or on pretty much any social media site.
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October 15, 2021this is it, you blokes
the end of the world as we know it
and i feel FINE
i mean, sorta? i'm going to miss this particular combination of characters and the whole feel of it. luckily for me, i'm planning on starting on a spinoff series in this world late next year, so there will be more Between to be had.
but in the meantime, i hope this ultimate installation of Pet's life is as satisfying, heart-wrenching, hilarious, and gory as you hope.
i mean, it's not finished yet or anything, but we've still got 2 1/2 months to go, right? *sweats nervously*
the end of the world as we know it
and i feel FINE
i mean, sorta? i'm going to miss this particular combination of characters and the whole feel of it. luckily for me, i'm planning on starting on a spinoff series in this world late next year, so there will be more Between to be had.
but in the meantime, i hope this ultimate installation of Pet's life is as satisfying, heart-wrenching, hilarious, and gory as you hope.
i mean, it's not finished yet or anything, but we've still got 2 1/2 months to go, right? *sweats nervously*
Read
January 12, 2022Re-read:
"I warned you," he said, and for an instant he could nearly have been JinYeong, all snarl and furious heat. "I warned you, Pet. I am not your chess piece."
"I know," I said. "I'm yours. But I'm the flamin' queen, and you better not forget it."
--
It's really hard to evaluate the final book in a series that has had me SO emotionally invested for SO long, because it can be hard to sort out which emotions are there because it's the highly anticipated finale to the series, which emotions are there because of what actually happened in the book, and which emotions are there because one had a specific idea of what one wanted from the book, which might not necessarily be what the author wanted to put in the book.
All of which is to say I'm not even going to bother with a star rating right now. There was both so much in this story and not quite enough (not that I'm sure I'd ever be ready to relinquish these characters).
After finishing BETWEEN KINGS I cycled right back to the start and am currently about halfway through BETWEEN JOBS again, and the contrast between the Pet of KINGS and the Pet of JOBS is stark. At the beginning of her story, Pet was desperate for love, repressing her memories, and so utterly powerless and uncertain of herself that she didn't even bother trying to figure out what was going on around her. In BETWEEN KINGS she has become a legendary figure even in the fae world. She is still no great hero, stomping around waving swords, but she knows who she is, she has learned all the lessons Zero and Athelas and JinYeong have had to teach her (even when they didn't think they were teaching her anything), and on top of that she's motivated by a fierce and blazing compassion. KINGS is very much Pet's book: she has well and truly come into her own.
Then there are the three psychos, and if this book belongs to anyone apart from Pet, it's the sneaky tea drinker. Get ready to see Athelas as you've never seen him before in this one...surprised. As for the other two, I'm going to say I was a tiny bit disappointed not to see more of one of them in particular, but I suspect that reading the series in one big chunk will mitigate this factor.
I'm not going to say that this book gave me all the closure I wanted. Because obviously I don't ever want it to end. But did it wrap up all the plot threads left dangling throughout? You bet. Are there scenes and lines that will make you shriek with horror, delight, and laughter? Of course. Are there plot twists that will utterly blindside you? Well, my own pet theory was confirmed, loosing an eldritch screech of triumph, but there were about six others that caught me totally by surprise.
And I honestly couldn't be happier with where each of our beloved characters ends up. I can't say more for fear of spoilers, but this is a book about justice and mercy and the sharp edges of forgiveness and the ruthlessness of grace, and it was all perfectly perfect.
I'm not at all ready to say goodbye to these weirdos, but of course the good news is that W.R. Gingell has loads more stories left to tell in this world, and I for one cannot WAIT for the spinoffs.
"I warned you," he said, and for an instant he could nearly have been JinYeong, all snarl and furious heat. "I warned you, Pet. I am not your chess piece."
"I know," I said. "I'm yours. But I'm the flamin' queen, and you better not forget it."
--
It's really hard to evaluate the final book in a series that has had me SO emotionally invested for SO long, because it can be hard to sort out which emotions are there because it's the highly anticipated finale to the series, which emotions are there because of what actually happened in the book, and which emotions are there because one had a specific idea of what one wanted from the book, which might not necessarily be what the author wanted to put in the book.
All of which is to say I'm not even going to bother with a star rating right now. There was both so much in this story and not quite enough (not that I'm sure I'd ever be ready to relinquish these characters).
After finishing BETWEEN KINGS I cycled right back to the start and am currently about halfway through BETWEEN JOBS again, and the contrast between the Pet of KINGS and the Pet of JOBS is stark. At the beginning of her story, Pet was desperate for love, repressing her memories, and so utterly powerless and uncertain of herself that she didn't even bother trying to figure out what was going on around her. In BETWEEN KINGS she has become a legendary figure even in the fae world. She is still no great hero, stomping around waving swords, but she knows who she is, she has learned all the lessons Zero and Athelas and JinYeong have had to teach her (even when they didn't think they were teaching her anything), and on top of that she's motivated by a fierce and blazing compassion. KINGS is very much Pet's book: she has well and truly come into her own.
Then there are the three psychos, and if this book belongs to anyone apart from Pet, it's the sneaky tea drinker. Get ready to see Athelas as you've never seen him before in this one...surprised. As for the other two, I'm going to say I was a tiny bit disappointed not to see more of one of them in particular, but I suspect that reading the series in one big chunk will mitigate this factor.
I'm not going to say that this book gave me all the closure I wanted. Because obviously I don't ever want it to end. But did it wrap up all the plot threads left dangling throughout? You bet. Are there scenes and lines that will make you shriek with horror, delight, and laughter? Of course. Are there plot twists that will utterly blindside you? Well, my own pet theory was confirmed, loosing an eldritch screech of triumph, but there were about six others that caught me totally by surprise.
And I honestly couldn't be happier with where each of our beloved characters ends up. I can't say more for fear of spoilers, but this is a book about justice and mercy and the sharp edges of forgiveness and the ruthlessness of grace, and it was all perfectly perfect.
I'm not at all ready to say goodbye to these weirdos, but of course the good news is that W.R. Gingell has loads more stories left to tell in this world, and I for one cannot WAIT for the spinoffs.
December 29, 2021
I’m so glad I took a risk on this great series. Urban fantasy is not a naturally appealing genre to me. The first couple of books gave me the impression that the author was winging it and throwing around too many plot strands and red herrings to follow up on. Well, I repent in dust and ashes. There was an epic plan all along, and some really big character arcs that unfolded organically and were wonderful to witness.
I haven’t read a lot of fantasy set in Australia, but this one weaves Aussie settings and sentiments with urban fantasy trappings so boldly and skilfully, I think it’s going to be a classic series in this country and pave the way for younger fantasy authors to write in their own Australian vernacular.
I haven’t read a lot of fantasy set in Australia, but this one weaves Aussie settings and sentiments with urban fantasy trappings so boldly and skilfully, I think it’s going to be a classic series in this country and pave the way for younger fantasy authors to write in their own Australian vernacular.
December 14, 2023
Yes, this book released today. Yes, I have already read it. Yes, I totally ditched all my responsibilities to do so.
This was everything I wanted for a finale and more. Pet and a certain vampire were just amazing. And that ending...man, I was gasping over some of the sacrifices.
I can't believe this series is over. These characters have plunked themselves down in my heart and won't leave.
If you haven't read this series yet, well, what are you waiting for?
This was everything I wanted for a finale and more. Pet and a certain vampire were just amazing. And that ending...man, I was gasping over some of the sacrifices.
I can't believe this series is over. These characters have plunked themselves down in my heart and won't leave.
If you haven't read this series yet, well, what are you waiting for?
September 30, 2025
Good heavens.
What an explosive, utterly riveting finale, full of mercy and revelations and forgiveness.
Content: violence and gore, a bit of kissing, magic. Two characters of the opposite gender fall asleep next to each other a couple times. The lyncanthropes shift back into human form without clothes.
What an explosive, utterly riveting finale, full of mercy and revelations and forgiveness.
Content: violence and gore, a bit of kissing, magic. Two characters of the opposite gender fall asleep next to each other a couple times. The lyncanthropes shift back into human form without clothes.
January 4, 2022
4.25 stars // read January 2022
“I warned you, Pet. I am not your chess piece.”
“I know,” I said. “I’m yours. But I’m the flamin’ queen, and you better not forget it.”
A bittersweet but fitting conclusion to the City Between series.
original review:
honestly I am more excited about this book than New Years
“I warned you, Pet. I am not your chess piece.”
“I know,” I said. “I’m yours. But I’m the flamin’ queen, and you better not forget it.”
A bittersweet but fitting conclusion to the City Between series.
original review:
honestly I am more excited about this book than New Years
August 11, 2023
wow what an epic ending 😩👏
my Thoughts:
• I had no idea how this was all going to shake out but gosh it was epic
• like the TWISTS were so GOOD literally had me gasping out loud several times
• I'd love to see the giant cork board that Gingell had to have had just to make all this work (if she kept it all in her head I am very impressed)
• my only complaint is there's a serious lack of Zero in this book but it made sense so I'm not mad
• JinYeong 🤝 Fleur Delacour
"I am beautiful enough
for both of us."
• speaking of JinYeong he was so soft in this book and I loved it
• the fight scenes were fantastic
• Pet is a chaotic good queen and we stan
• I'm already anticipating a reread of this whole series
5 stars from me
re-read 2023:
oh this series is so wonderful and this finale is wonderful and petyeong is wonderful and I love it
my Thoughts:
• I had no idea how this was all going to shake out but gosh it was epic
• like the TWISTS were so GOOD literally had me gasping out loud several times
• I'd love to see the giant cork board that Gingell had to have had just to make all this work (if she kept it all in her head I am very impressed)
• my only complaint is there's a serious lack of Zero in this book but it made sense so I'm not mad
• JinYeong 🤝 Fleur Delacour
"I am beautiful enough
for both of us."
• speaking of JinYeong he was so soft in this book and I loved it
• the fight scenes were fantastic
• Pet is a chaotic good queen and we stan
• I'm already anticipating a reread of this whole series
5 stars from me
re-read 2023:
oh this series is so wonderful and this finale is wonderful and petyeong is wonderful and I love it
February 1, 2023
Updated Review: Look, you gotta read City Between twice to get the full effect. That's a minimum. Also, see original review.
Original Review: Help it's over and I don't know what to DO anymore.
Original Review: Help it's over and I don't know what to DO anymore.
November 24, 2022
I felt like the author was just throwing sh** at a wall and seeing if it would stick. I realize a lot of this series just doesn't make sense because...that's how it was written. But this book took it to a new level.
I absolutely didn't like that she decided to use physical torture this late in the game. And I also thought that the role reversal with Pet and another character (trying not to spoil too much) was pretty ridiculous.
Not a fan of this ending at all, and it pretty much soured an otherwise decent series for me.
I absolutely didn't like that she decided to use physical torture this late in the game. And I also thought that the role reversal with Pet and another character (trying not to spoil too much) was pretty ridiculous.
Not a fan of this ending at all, and it pretty much soured an otherwise decent series for me.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 20, 2024
Stars: 4 out of 5
What a great ending to a great series. All the different threads carefully hinted at during the previous books finally come to play and are resolved in a satisfactory manner. All the friendships Pet has cultivated in the previous books come to play as well.
You can really see just how much Pet has grown up between book one and book 10. In the first book, she might as well have been a ghost. She was so afraid of loosing her house that she lived only in order to earn enough money to buy it out. Nothing existed beyond work and hiding in her own home. We watched her gain confidence, both in herself and her abilities. We watched her make friends and stick by them in difficult moments. Most importantly, we watched her open her heart to other people and actually enjoy life instead of trying to exist as a ghost in her own house.
I loved that all the friends she collected along the way came to her help in the end, even the leprechaun. This was a nice juxtaposition to the idea Behindkind has that friendship is a burden and that anyone can stab you in the back, or that there is no such thing as freely given aid. Pet helped all of those people at one point of the other, and didn't ask for anything in return. So they all showed up to help her, and to save the other heirlings stuck in the King's arena. Heck, even the old butler had a redeeming moment.
I was surprised by the twist in the end. Not going to mention it to avoid spoilers, but let's just say that the new King of Behind is... an interesting fellow.
My only complaint is that this book dragged in the beginning. There is a lot of running around doing mostly nothing for the first 50% of the story. So much so that I had to put it down and walk away for a few days because I was getting bored. Once the action picks up again, it's a fun ride to the end, with satisfactory conclusions all around. The way Pet defeated the former King is a stroke of genius.
I am glad I found this series, and I will definitely check out other books by this author.
What a great ending to a great series. All the different threads carefully hinted at during the previous books finally come to play and are resolved in a satisfactory manner. All the friendships Pet has cultivated in the previous books come to play as well.
You can really see just how much Pet has grown up between book one and book 10. In the first book, she might as well have been a ghost. She was so afraid of loosing her house that she lived only in order to earn enough money to buy it out. Nothing existed beyond work and hiding in her own home. We watched her gain confidence, both in herself and her abilities. We watched her make friends and stick by them in difficult moments. Most importantly, we watched her open her heart to other people and actually enjoy life instead of trying to exist as a ghost in her own house.
I loved that all the friends she collected along the way came to her help in the end, even the leprechaun. This was a nice juxtaposition to the idea Behindkind has that friendship is a burden and that anyone can stab you in the back, or that there is no such thing as freely given aid. Pet helped all of those people at one point of the other, and didn't ask for anything in return. So they all showed up to help her, and to save the other heirlings stuck in the King's arena. Heck, even the old butler had a redeeming moment.
I was surprised by the twist in the end. Not going to mention it to avoid spoilers, but let's just say that the new King of Behind is... an interesting fellow.
My only complaint is that this book dragged in the beginning. There is a lot of running around doing mostly nothing for the first 50% of the story. So much so that I had to put it down and walk away for a few days because I was getting bored. Once the action picks up again, it's a fun ride to the end, with satisfactory conclusions all around. The way Pet defeated the former King is a stroke of genius.
I am glad I found this series, and I will definitely check out other books by this author.
June 1, 2023
original review 2021:
Wow. Just...wow.
There is blood, and there is pain, and there is justice, and there is mercy, and there is love. What more could you want from a finale to a series as stunning as this?
Wow. Just...wow.
There is blood, and there is pain, and there is justice, and there is mercy, and there is love. What more could you want from a finale to a series as stunning as this?
December 30, 2021
Every book series is a journey, and if it’s done well, it’s a journey where the characters grow and change and tug on my heart. The City Between series has done EXACTLY that, and I’m so happy to have it as part of my life – and to have the books in an honored place on my bookshelves!
What drew me in to the series from the beginning was Pet’s voice – she’s cheeky and irreverent and compelling. As a narrator, she’s been reliable, and yet very good at keeping her innermost thoughts hidden until exactly the right time. This is no different in Between Kings, and makes for some excellent reveals and heart-tugging moments at the very end. Gingell is masterful at weaving in exactly what she wants us to see while hinting at more. It’s one of those things where everything is there if you look at it, but it doesn’t all click into place until the final moment of confirmation. I LOVE THAT SO MUCH.
Book 9, Between Family, was hard to read because the truth came to light about Athelas and his actions. The profound effect he’s had on Pet and her life cannot be dismissed, and actually is integral to the story in Between Kings. But it’s Pet’s emotional journey with him that landed me on my own emotional rollercoaster right there with her.
Her continued relationship with JinYeong delighted me to no end, even as I saw that Pet wasn’t willing to recognize how deep her feelings for him ran. Her coping strategy has always been playfulness and humor, and it doesn’t quit here, but I love how steady their reliance on each other has become.
Getting the proper king on the throne behind and that battle’s resolution was well done, and the sacrifices made on both sides were absolutely fitting to the story. There’s a phrase that Pet utters towards the end that I desperately want on a t-shirt, but to avoid spoilers, I won’t mention it here. Let’s just say that it’s a pinnacle expression of her growth and, again, I LOVED IT SO MUCH.
Between Kings was a satisfying conclusion to The City Between series, and I’m glad I got the chance to read it. Pet and her psychos will be a part of my life for a long time to come, and I highly suggest that they become a part of yours as well. The ride is worth it.
(I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review and WAS NOT SAD ABOUT IT.)
What drew me in to the series from the beginning was Pet’s voice – she’s cheeky and irreverent and compelling. As a narrator, she’s been reliable, and yet very good at keeping her innermost thoughts hidden until exactly the right time. This is no different in Between Kings, and makes for some excellent reveals and heart-tugging moments at the very end. Gingell is masterful at weaving in exactly what she wants us to see while hinting at more. It’s one of those things where everything is there if you look at it, but it doesn’t all click into place until the final moment of confirmation. I LOVE THAT SO MUCH.
Book 9, Between Family, was hard to read because the truth came to light about Athelas and his actions. The profound effect he’s had on Pet and her life cannot be dismissed, and actually is integral to the story in Between Kings. But it’s Pet’s emotional journey with him that landed me on my own emotional rollercoaster right there with her.
Her continued relationship with JinYeong delighted me to no end, even as I saw that Pet wasn’t willing to recognize how deep her feelings for him ran. Her coping strategy has always been playfulness and humor, and it doesn’t quit here, but I love how steady their reliance on each other has become.
Getting the proper king on the throne behind and that battle’s resolution was well done, and the sacrifices made on both sides were absolutely fitting to the story. There’s a phrase that Pet utters towards the end that I desperately want on a t-shirt, but to avoid spoilers, I won’t mention it here. Let’s just say that it’s a pinnacle expression of her growth and, again, I LOVED IT SO MUCH.
Between Kings was a satisfying conclusion to The City Between series, and I’m glad I got the chance to read it. Pet and her psychos will be a part of my life for a long time to come, and I highly suggest that they become a part of yours as well. The ride is worth it.
(I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review and WAS NOT SAD ABOUT IT.)
January 1, 2022
I have really mixed feelings on this book. Don't get me wrong, it was good! But it was not how I would have wanted the series to end! There were also a few things that felt unresolved and unexplained. I have a feeling the author meant to leave it that way, I think she wanted it to feel more a real world situation where things don't work out perfectly. And while I understand that, as a reader it just left me feeling sad for the characters and a bit frustrated at the situation. That said, I have loved reading this series, and she has created an amazing world! Would definitely recommend to those who enjoy urban fantasy and like reading about magic!
February 3, 2023
Coming out Dec. 31, 2021.
November 21, 2023
WHAT AM I SUPPOSED TO SAY!?!?
Also, don't mind me getting the compilation and the next series asap.
Also, don't mind me getting the compilation and the next series asap.
January 3, 2022
Man. Oh. Man
I’ve been looking forward to this release and, thanks to kindle unlimited, was able to devour it! And I’m so happyyyy.
I stayed up way too late finishing this last night(this morning? 🤔😅)
From the Shrek reference right out of the gate I knew it was gonna be gooooood! But I have to say this was my favorite out of the whole series.
The whole book just seemed so much more… refined? And clearer. And was better at telling you how the characters were relating to what was going on around them(something I had trouble with in a couple of the other books). Also Pet was much less annoying. Not that she overly was in the other books, I love Pet, but she wasn’t as repetitive and seemed to have more of a direction and you could follow along with it better it felt like.
I was absolutely blindsided by several things towards the end though!!!!
I’m gonna be a good girl and not spoil anything but I’m still shooketh.
There were so many things I highlighted too. She wove in some things that makes me want to write quotes all over my bathroom mirror.
This series is a ride that I’m SO glad I hopped on!!
Some fave quotes:
“It’s too easy to sacrifice things that aren’t yours,”
“It doesn’t look like much, but that’s a design feature, not a design flaw.”
“You keep on acting like things that are weaker don’t have any value.”
I’ve been looking forward to this release and, thanks to kindle unlimited, was able to devour it! And I’m so happyyyy.
I stayed up way too late finishing this last night(this morning? 🤔😅)
From the Shrek reference right out of the gate I knew it was gonna be gooooood! But I have to say this was my favorite out of the whole series.
The whole book just seemed so much more… refined? And clearer. And was better at telling you how the characters were relating to what was going on around them(something I had trouble with in a couple of the other books). Also Pet was much less annoying. Not that she overly was in the other books, I love Pet, but she wasn’t as repetitive and seemed to have more of a direction and you could follow along with it better it felt like.
I was absolutely blindsided by several things towards the end though!!!!
I’m gonna be a good girl and not spoil anything but I’m still shooketh.
There were so many things I highlighted too. She wove in some things that makes me want to write quotes all over my bathroom mirror.
This series is a ride that I’m SO glad I hopped on!!
Some fave quotes:
“It’s too easy to sacrifice things that aren’t yours,”
“It doesn’t look like much, but that’s a design feature, not a design flaw.”
“You keep on acting like things that are weaker don’t have any value.”
April 11, 2023
Second review.
4.5 stars. I took this down a point this time because this book stressed me out way more on the second reading. I knew what was coming and I was still stressed. And since I often rate on enjoyment… plus, i started to see what a friend of mine had said about a gratuitous sacrifice. It was great and terrible.
I loved seeing Athelas again. And I’m looking forward to his series.
So many mixed up thoughts on this book this time.
First review.
5 stars. My heart just exploded! What a beautiful book and series. I can’t tell you how good it was enough! There is so much I would say but I won’t spoil it. But… i just want to talk to people about this book/series! So good and so many thoughts.
Mercy, love, family, redemption, forgiveness, strength, laughter… oh so much bundled in this!
4.5 stars. I took this down a point this time because this book stressed me out way more on the second reading. I knew what was coming and I was still stressed. And since I often rate on enjoyment… plus, i started to see what a friend of mine had said about a gratuitous sacrifice. It was great and terrible.
I loved seeing Athelas again. And I’m looking forward to his series.
So many mixed up thoughts on this book this time.
First review.
5 stars. My heart just exploded! What a beautiful book and series. I can’t tell you how good it was enough! There is so much I would say but I won’t spoil it. But… i just want to talk to people about this book/series! So good and so many thoughts.
Mercy, love, family, redemption, forgiveness, strength, laughter… oh so much bundled in this!
December 31, 2021
And so it ends. *dies a little*
I think the best way to describe this book is that it was a combo of "I did not see that coming", "I should have seen that coming", and "I saw that coming," all at the SAME TIME. I basically gave up and spammed myself with incredulous theories...but I am so happy some of them were right.
Don't know if there's a way to objectively review the series, though. I mean, I do believe it has AMAZING pacing, well set up twists (to the LAST MOMENT, REALLY??), and INCREDIBLE payoff for all the development and set up and worldbuilding of the past books. Once again, I am impressed by the world created and all the things jammed into it.
Also...Gingell wrote a 10 book series in 4.5 years. With a few books between??? Major congratulations to her for doing that and finishing everything in a proper place that both left so much to explore and still tied off the main heroine's arc.
Content: again, pretty bloody but no unnecessary gore. Romantic elements remain clean, as does language.
I think the best way to describe this book is that it was a combo of "I did not see that coming", "I should have seen that coming", and "I saw that coming," all at the SAME TIME. I basically gave up and spammed myself with incredulous theories...but I am so happy some of them were right.
Don't know if there's a way to objectively review the series, though. I mean, I do believe it has AMAZING pacing, well set up twists (to the LAST MOMENT, REALLY??), and INCREDIBLE payoff for all the development and set up and worldbuilding of the past books. Once again, I am impressed by the world created and all the things jammed into it.
Also...Gingell wrote a 10 book series in 4.5 years. With a few books between??? Major congratulations to her for doing that and finishing everything in a proper place that both left so much to explore and still tied off the main heroine's arc.
Content: again, pretty bloody but no unnecessary gore. Romantic elements remain clean, as does language.
January 10, 2022
I guess I was missing a bit more closure...or at least a robotic arm or something...also, I am lately feeling that the gore and torture are becoming a bit overused in books. I am not saying it is not a strong plot twist, but especially if it happens around the end of the book, it generally leaves me with a bad feeling about the book overall...more so since over summer my grandfather had to go through partial foot amputation and as I saw how it killed his will to live, I really do not think it is a plot device to take lightly and should have at least several chapters if not a whole book in series to deal with an impact of something like this on the characters...
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 2, 2024
Well, that was quite the finale. I actually didn't see some of those plot twist coming, and I love all these characters (not to mention the ship) so much more than I would have expected back when I started the series. I honestly can't believe it's over. Now, I need to read the spin-off series, which I'm quite excited about. :)
I def recommend this series, especially if you like urban fantasy, and trust me, if you're not sure about the first book, it gets better.
Now, I'll see how long I can hold myself back from starting the City Behind series...
I def recommend this series, especially if you like urban fantasy, and trust me, if you're not sure about the first book, it gets better.
Now, I'll see how long I can hold myself back from starting the City Behind series...
June 24, 2022
It’s over and I want to weep. I shall miss Pet, Zero and JinYeong and even Athelas. The world the author created from the magic to the politics was brilliantly done. Most of the series, and Between Kings is told to us through the voice of Pet. We don’t learn her true name until near the end, but her story, their story, will fascinate you and hold you captive.
I was worried, as one always does when they have come this far into a series; if the end will satisfy me and it did. Question where answered and the last story contained some closure, plenty of action, character growth and a mix of sad and happy moments to make my heart race, weep a little and smile gleefully.
I loved the slow-building romance, the back-and-forth banter and loved discovering who Pet would choose. I grew to love all the characters, from secondary characters to the motley crew of friends and acquaintances.
The world building and overall story arc throughout the story was well done. The world of the Between was fascinating, a tad scary and Pet’s place in it progressed throughout. It was wonderfully developed. Gingell kept on edge, ending each book with enough closer to make me happy, but left enough dangling threads to have me craving the next audiobook in the series. She wove a brilliant tale and carefully closed each thread. While the ending answered all of our questions, one can always hope we will get another adventure with Pet.
Zehra Jane Naqvi narrates the series and I adore her voice, accents and tones. She became the voice of Pet and these characters. Her narration enhanced the tale and I cannot image choosing any other format. This review was originally posted at Caffeinated Reviewer
I was worried, as one always does when they have come this far into a series; if the end will satisfy me and it did. Question where answered and the last story contained some closure, plenty of action, character growth and a mix of sad and happy moments to make my heart race, weep a little and smile gleefully.
I loved the slow-building romance, the back-and-forth banter and loved discovering who Pet would choose. I grew to love all the characters, from secondary characters to the motley crew of friends and acquaintances.
The world building and overall story arc throughout the story was well done. The world of the Between was fascinating, a tad scary and Pet’s place in it progressed throughout. It was wonderfully developed. Gingell kept on edge, ending each book with enough closer to make me happy, but left enough dangling threads to have me craving the next audiobook in the series. She wove a brilliant tale and carefully closed each thread. While the ending answered all of our questions, one can always hope we will get another adventure with Pet.
Zehra Jane Naqvi narrates the series and I adore her voice, accents and tones. She became the voice of Pet and these characters. Her narration enhanced the tale and I cannot image choosing any other format. This review was originally posted at Caffeinated Reviewer
December 12, 2022
In the City Between series, Gingell takes every fairy tale and fantasy element imaginable, sets them loose in Hobart, Australia, and delights you with all the sass and heartbreak and delicious escapism you can desire. This ten book series is a gorgeous piece of work.
One of the key graces stories offer the reader is a steady presence of fictional community when real life is shifting in hard ways. Pet, Jin Yeong, Athelas, and Zero were that community for me this summer. I loved them so much that they actually broke my heart for six months before I could bring myself to finish the last book today. But I actually consider that a recommendation since their story was so immersive. :)
While the separation of a major character throughout Book 10's major plot points was the one fly in my ointment (I'm always for keeping the band of brothers together as much as possible), the conclusion had so many powerful moments, and I heartily enjoyed it. I listened to the entire series on audiobook, and the narrator's voices were brilliant. Definitely going to be saving up for the paperback versions.
One of the key graces stories offer the reader is a steady presence of fictional community when real life is shifting in hard ways. Pet, Jin Yeong, Athelas, and Zero were that community for me this summer. I loved them so much that they actually broke my heart for six months before I could bring myself to finish the last book today. But I actually consider that a recommendation since their story was so immersive. :)
While the separation of a major character throughout Book 10's major plot points was the one fly in my ointment (I'm always for keeping the band of brothers together as much as possible), the conclusion had so many powerful moments, and I heartily enjoyed it. I listened to the entire series on audiobook, and the narrator's voices were brilliant. Definitely going to be saving up for the paperback versions.
March 11, 2025
*wipes a tear away*
As Pet might say, "heck, it's over. Didn't reckon it would be like that."
Didn't reckon it would mean so much to me.
Let me explain. This is a weird series and it's rude how weird it is because when I start explaining it to people I have to stop and say, "it's not weird! Okay, it is, but it isn't," and I have to hope they believe me.
A City Between series is creative and fun and full of unique characters. There is some gore, but there is also deep themes about family, prejudice, justice, mercy, the value of life, hope, and courage.
It's a bingeable series. It made me think and laugh and cry and I enjoyed it (even if sometimes I'm a little too stuck in the story world because I start looking for Between in our world).
I loved seeing the characters grow. I loved seeing these friends become family. I loved the reminder to hope and protect one another and call each other out when they are being too much of a psycho.
Now that I have finished reading... I say goodbye to a place where umbrellas are sometimes swords, but I hope to carry the stories with me and return to read them... and read the connected series' too. :)
As Pet might say, "heck, it's over. Didn't reckon it would be like that."
Didn't reckon it would mean so much to me.
Let me explain. This is a weird series and it's rude how weird it is because when I start explaining it to people I have to stop and say, "it's not weird! Okay, it is, but it isn't," and I have to hope they believe me.
A City Between series is creative and fun and full of unique characters. There is some gore, but there is also deep themes about family, prejudice, justice, mercy, the value of life, hope, and courage.
It's a bingeable series. It made me think and laugh and cry and I enjoyed it (even if sometimes I'm a little too stuck in the story world because I start looking for Between in our world).
I loved seeing the characters grow. I loved seeing these friends become family. I loved the reminder to hope and protect one another and call each other out when they are being too much of a psycho.
Now that I have finished reading... I say goodbye to a place where umbrellas are sometimes swords, but I hope to carry the stories with me and return to read them... and read the connected series' too. :)
November 27, 2023
Now THAT is how you finish a series.
January 13, 2022
Loved the book and the story, although I struggled to keep up with how Pet came to her realisations (granted, reading the book late at night after a busy day does not work in my favor)
Generally, I am sad to say goodbye to the characters and to those fantastic stories.
But wished there would be more information about Athelas, still got the impression we are missing out on some things. Probably wishful thinking
Generally, I am sad to say goodbye to the characters and to those fantastic stories.
But wished there would be more information about Athelas, still got the impression we are missing out on some things. Probably wishful thinking
December 8, 2022
How I CRIED. I don't do rereads, almost ever - but this is one of the few series i will definitely reread someday!!
My Athelas. MY ATHELAS. One of my favorite characters in fiction - I don't have many of them. I can like and even love a lot of characters, but some I just... And I have a feeling he will be exactly that character to me in the end.
And knowing that Jinyeong is basically a kitty is seriously cracking me up. I'd describe him to you and yall would agree this is definitely someone's cat out there.
I want more of them all. Please.
My Athelas. MY ATHELAS. One of my favorite characters in fiction - I don't have many of them. I can like and even love a lot of characters, but some I just... And I have a feeling he will be exactly that character to me in the end.
And knowing that Jinyeong is basically a kitty is seriously cracking me up. I'd describe him to you and yall would agree this is definitely someone's cat out there.
I want more of them all. Please.
May 13, 2024
This is it. This is the epic, twisty-turny end of the 10 book 2 Novella series!!! With the gang split apart, the king tried to un-alive the lot of them in the final battle being forced by the king! Great sacrifice (that was tough to read) will be needed to gain a new king! So much fun! Even after all of these books, I want more. I know there is an Athlas sequal series. I never really liked the guy and am not really interested.
January 8, 2022
I loved it though I think the gore was a bit too much for me. definitely recommend this book. I will be sad to see this awesome series go.
November 28, 2022
Savage mercy, indeed.
*shivers*
The beauty and brutal honesty of Gingell’s stories never fail to…do something to me. I don’t know what they do. It’s kind of scary, though.
Part of me wants to say that in this finale (for the first time in ten books, which is VERY FORGIVABLE), the themes overtake the plot just a little. There’s a lot of thematic resolution and a lot of things that Pet has heretofore only said, that she’s now able to put into satisfyingly conclusive action.
But mostly, I think, there is just so much resolution of characters. It’s very satisfying.
Anyway, it was nice to reread it and actually pay any sort of attention to the main plot. I still had this obsessive need to rush through to get to the parts that Really Matter (i.e. that involve That One Character), but I curbed them enough to enjoy the actual story. Pet, triumphant, curious and compassionate and a legend in her own right in the world Behind (but still human to the core), takes up all the gifts she has been vouchsafed in order to protect her people and finally take on the king. (And she doesn’t stop there.)
She’s come so far from the Pet of book 1, and I’m so flamin’ proud of her.
”I warned you,” he said, and for an instant he could nearly have been JinYeong, all snarl and furious heat. “I warned you, Pet. I am not your chess piece.”
“I know,” I said. “I’m yours. But I’m the flamin’ queen, and you better not forget it.”
(can we talk about that relationship for a sec, though? i mean. i just. *shivers again*)
*shivers*
The beauty and brutal honesty of Gingell’s stories never fail to…do something to me. I don’t know what they do. It’s kind of scary, though.
Part of me wants to say that in this finale (for the first time in ten books, which is VERY FORGIVABLE), the themes overtake the plot just a little. There’s a lot of thematic resolution and a lot of things that Pet has heretofore only said, that she’s now able to put into satisfyingly conclusive action.
But mostly, I think, there is just so much resolution of characters. It’s very satisfying.
Anyway, it was nice to reread it and actually pay any sort of attention to the main plot. I still had this obsessive need to rush through to get to the parts that Really Matter (i.e. that involve That One Character), but I curbed them enough to enjoy the actual story. Pet, triumphant, curious and compassionate and a legend in her own right in the world Behind (but still human to the core), takes up all the gifts she has been vouchsafed in order to protect her people and finally take on the king. (And she doesn’t stop there.)
She’s come so far from the Pet of book 1, and I’m so flamin’ proud of her.
”I warned you,” he said, and for an instant he could nearly have been JinYeong, all snarl and furious heat. “I warned you, Pet. I am not your chess piece.”
“I know,” I said. “I’m yours. But I’m the flamin’ queen, and you better not forget it.”
(can we talk about that relationship for a sec, though? i mean. i just. *shivers again*)
February 15, 2023
I don’t know where to begin—this series has become one of my all time favorites. These characters feel like friends or even family at this point. We’ve seen them grow, shift, change, interact, break our hearts, break EACH OTHER’S hearts…
And now this series is at a close. It’s a bittersweet but perfect ending. It made me cry. It made my heart hurt. It made my heart happy. It made me feel things.
Most of all, it made me want to go back and re-read the series. I love it that much. But first, I’ve got the spin-off series to read. Just a few hours away from release!!
And now this series is at a close. It’s a bittersweet but perfect ending. It made me cry. It made my heart hurt. It made my heart happy. It made me feel things.
Most of all, it made me want to go back and re-read the series. I love it that much. But first, I’ve got the spin-off series to read. Just a few hours away from release!!
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