A review by linhsreadinghour
The Eternal Ones by Namina Forna

adventurous challenging emotional hopeful inspiring 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? No

4.0

Sound conclusion to a really great YA fantasy series. I think I loved book 1 and 2 the most. I think 3 felt a little distant to the rest of the books because it has been a while since I read the first 2 books. That aside, I think the series overall is such a good diverse YA fantasy series for young readers. 

I think it’s best for older younger readers due to the really big and dark themes the books explored but I think it’s done in a really accessible way for young readers. It’s a great gateway series that would ease them into adult fantasy, exploring themes such as oppression, misogyny, and lgbtq+ rep (great non-binary rep in book 3. 

It’s got all the goodness in fantasy such as sisterhood, quest, found family, animal companion, gods, and a whole lot of cool magic and creatures.

At the heart of the story though, is the classic theme of coming of age and that everyone has a choice in who they become. 

If I review book 3 specifically though, I thought that book 1 and 2 were much better. I remember having more bigger reactions to book 1 and 2. This book I felt like I had to force myself to keep reading near the middle. We’re introduced to some new characters/creatures and information/decisions but ultimately this and the ending felt a little rushed.  I also understand Deka was trying to grapple with her destiny but her emotions were all over the place it seemed.
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