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sarahinvi's review against another edition
adventurous
challenging
dark
emotional
hopeful
inspiring
reflective
sad
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
Notably, the series didn't shy away from portraying the messy aspects of life—failures, mistakes, and the uncertainty of navigating relationships. It taught me that growth often comes from acknowledging these complexities and learning from them, much like the characters in the story. It reminded me of the importance of empathy, even in the face of conflicting ideologies.
What truly captured my attention throughout the series was the intricate bond between the characters and their dragons. From the tentative beginnings to the unbreakable ties that evolved over time, I was fascinated by how emotions were woven into this connection, adding layers of depth and authenticity to the narrative.
One aspect that could have enhanced the reading experience for me personally is a more detailed exploration of certain plot threads, especially regarding the fate of certain characters and unresolved conflicts. However, this also leaves room for reader interpretation and imagination.
Also, a map. Who doesn't love a good map?
What made this series truly stand out for me was the author's willingness to embrace imperfections. The storytelling felt messy in the most beautifully real way, capturing the essence of human nature. Characters were flawed, made bad decisions, yet underwent tremendous growth throughout the series. It felt refreshingly realistic, challenging notions of what is "right" or "wrong" in a complex world.
In essence, the Fireborne trilogy isn't just a fantasy adventure; it's a mirror reflecting the intricacies of the human experience. It reminded me of the power of resilience, friendship, and introspection. I close this chapter with a sense of fulfillment and a renewed appreciation for stories that not only entertain but also provoke thought and self-exploration.
It's earned its own spot on my bookshelf.
What truly captured my attention throughout the series was the intricate bond between the characters and their dragons. From the tentative beginnings to the unbreakable ties that evolved over time, I was fascinated by how emotions were woven into this connection, adding layers of depth and authenticity to the narrative.
One aspect that could have enhanced the reading experience for me personally is a more detailed exploration of certain plot threads, especially regarding the fate of certain characters and unresolved conflicts. However, this also leaves room for reader interpretation and imagination.
Also, a map. Who doesn't love a good map?
What made this series truly stand out for me was the author's willingness to embrace imperfections. The storytelling felt messy in the most beautifully real way, capturing the essence of human nature. Characters were flawed, made bad decisions, yet underwent tremendous growth throughout the series. It felt refreshingly realistic, challenging notions of what is "right" or "wrong" in a complex world.
In essence, the Fireborne trilogy isn't just a fantasy adventure; it's a mirror reflecting the intricacies of the human experience. It reminded me of the power of resilience, friendship, and introspection. I close this chapter with a sense of fulfillment and a renewed appreciation for stories that not only entertain but also provoke thought and self-exploration.
It's earned its own spot on my bookshelf.
Content Warnings
Graphic: War, Classism, Fire/Fire injury, and Animal death
Moderate: Blood, Physical abuse, Injury/Injury detail, Bullying, and Violence
Minor: Animal cruelty, Vomit, Torture, Child death, Slavery, Grief, and Suicide attempt
katymat18's review against another edition
adventurous
dark
emotional
inspiring
sad
tense
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
5.0
I put off reading this one because I knew it was the end and I really just didn’t want to say goodbye to the Aurelian Cycle. But wow! This. This is how you end a trilogy! I cried so much and had to take a few breaks for emotional reasons, but I truly loved this world of dragons.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Death, War, Fire/Fire injury, Animal death, and Violence
Moderate: Blood, Classism, Torture, and Murder
Minor: Bullying and Homophobia
microbemom's review against another edition
adventurous
challenging
dark
emotional
hopeful
inspiring
sad
tense
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
5.0
This is an excellent series with an excellent ending.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Alcohol, Death, Alcoholism, Animal death, Body horror, Sexism, Bullying, Classism, Grief, Injury/Injury detail, Murder, Fire/Fire injury, and Violence
aseel_reads's review against another edition
adventurous
challenging
dark
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.25
A solid ending to this trilogy, but I still want MORE :(
Content Warnings
Moderate: Blood, Injury/Injury detail, Alcoholism, Vomit, War, Child death, Classism, Death, Domestic abuse, Physical abuse, Animal death, Murder, Animal cruelty, Bullying, Death of parent, Fire/Fire injury, Gore, Grief, Misogyny, Sexual harassment, Torture, and Violence
betweentheshelves's review
adventurous
emotional
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
4.5
Okay, but why are more people not talking about this trilogy? I feel like it can be so difficult to pace YA fantasy trilogies, but Rosaria Munda did an excellent job with this one. All three books felt so important and contributed to the overall story. It doesn't suffer from second book syndrome, and ends with an explosive third book you'll have a hard time putting down!
I think part of what makes this series so great is the integration of well-rounded characters to an intricate, detailed fantastical world. Yes, there were things that I forgot from the first book to this one, but it didn't matter. I was still just as engrossed in the story. Annie and Lee are still my favorite points of view, but we get some additional ones from the second book that really help round out the complete story that's happening.
This series is also unique in that it starts off in the aftermath of a revolution, with a soceity trying to figure out how to move forward. Of course, you run the danger of barging in and taking control when the new government is just being built; someone you didn't want in control in the first place. There is such an interesting discussion of power and government and who gets a say in the control of that government. I think I would re-read the series again just for that.
All in all, if you love dragons, you love great characers, and you love intricate world building, you should definitely pick this series up! You won't be disappointed.
I think part of what makes this series so great is the integration of well-rounded characters to an intricate, detailed fantastical world. Yes, there were things that I forgot from the first book to this one, but it didn't matter. I was still just as engrossed in the story. Annie and Lee are still my favorite points of view, but we get some additional ones from the second book that really help round out the complete story that's happening.
This series is also unique in that it starts off in the aftermath of a revolution, with a soceity trying to figure out how to move forward. Of course, you run the danger of barging in and taking control when the new government is just being built; someone you didn't want in control in the first place. There is such an interesting discussion of power and government and who gets a say in the control of that government. I think I would re-read the series again just for that.
All in all, if you love dragons, you love great characers, and you love intricate world building, you should definitely pick this series up! You won't be disappointed.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Animal death, Fire/Fire injury, and Death
Moderate: Child death, War, and Torture
Minor: Bullying, Sexual assault, and Homophobia
zoeelizabethk's review
dark
emotional
sad
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
4.5
The Aurelian Cycle was so good! Furysong was a really great ending to the series and had so much to love. Annie has my heart particularly and Rosaria Munda delivered some gut wrenching emotions during this book. The use of literature and poetry and the weaving of (even small) events from the previous books was well done. I do wish we could have dug into the affect of putting children through what this book puts them through. It wasn't glossed over by any means but I think I would have liked a bit more. I also think that - for me - I preferred the pacing and themes in Flamefall just a little bit more. That book had me in so many tears and feelings and it was hard to read but so good. Your mileage may vary, but regardless this is a really well written series. I will definitely be getting physical copies for my shelves and rereading in the future, and I highly recommend.
I listened to the audiobook narrated by Christian Coulson, Candice Moll, Aidan Kelly, Anthony Mark Barrow, and Steve West. The audiobook is excellent! I personally had trouble understanding Delo's character narrated by Anthony Mark Barrow, but it might have had something to do with my speed settings. Candice Moll is particularly excellent!
I listened to the audiobook narrated by Christian Coulson, Candice Moll, Aidan Kelly, Anthony Mark Barrow, and Steve West. The audiobook is excellent! I personally had trouble understanding Delo's character narrated by Anthony Mark Barrow, but it might have had something to do with my speed settings. Candice Moll is particularly excellent!
Content Warnings
Graphic: Death, Gore, Animal death, Blood, Fire/Fire injury, Injury/Injury detail, and Grief
Moderate: Slavery, Torture, Violence, Physical abuse, and War
Minor: Bullying, Homophobia, Child death, Outing, Sexual harassment, Confinement, Sexism, Death of parent, Racial slurs, Xenophobia, and Kidnapping
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