A review by dlrosebyh
The Final Gambit by Jennifer Lynn Barnes

mysterious 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? Yes

3.75

All Avery Kylie Grambs needs to do to inherit billions is staying in Hawthorne House for a few more weeks. The photographers are following her every move. Financial strains are increasing. Danger is an unavoidable part of life. And the only thing keeping Avery going is the Hawthorne brothers. Her existence is inextricably linked to theirs. She is aware of their secrets, and they are aware of her. 
 
But, as the clock approaches the time when Avery will become the world's richest adolescent, disaster arrives in the guise of a visitor who need her assistance—and whose presence at Hawthorne House might change everything. It quickly becomes evident that there is one more puzzle to solve, and Avery and the Hawthorne brothers are lured into a perilous game against an unknown and strong opponent. 
 
In comparison to the prior two novels, I found the mystery in this one to be less intriguing. It was also less action-packed, which made me bored at times. However, the last third of the book was incredibly engaging, since I couldn't stop reading it throughout. 
 
Except for Grayson, I believe everyone had amazing character growth throughout the series. Don't get me wrong, I adore him, but I believe Jennifer Lynn Barnes failed to give him a distinctive personality like she did with the other Hawthorne brothers. His character is always mourning Emily, which is really realistic, but if he isn't mourning, he is usually frigid. We saw him vulnerable once, but I know that's not all there is to him. I wish we saw more of him. 
 
I know a lot of people didn't like the ending, but I felt it fit Avery well. She didn't truly desire the inheritance in the first book. So I assumed that her giving 96% of her inherited money was something she would have done. And I adore the conclusion because it is so simple— although personally, I would be a bit more selfish.
Expand filter menu Content Warnings