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A review by naturalistnatalie
Briar's Book by Tamora Pierce
4.0
It's interesting that this is the end of a series not because some big story arc has been completed, but because we've covered all four of the main characters. Each book is just a chance for one of the four friends to shine. This time, it's Briar's turn. He mostly demonstrates his ability to follow directions, as well as his fierce loyalty to his friends. He's not willing to let Rosethorn die. He breaks Lark's rule and follows after Rosethorn's dying spirit. It was the one chance for all the kids to work their magic together. I wasn't worried, though. Middle grade books almost always end well.
I did notice the relationship between Rosethorn and Lark was a bit more obvious to my clueless brain. While there is no direct mention of them being a couple, Lark is the one Rosethorn asks for first after her near-death experience.
I also found the mix of science and magic to be interesting. Sadly, Briar didn't get to demonstrate his magical prowess, unlike the girls in their own books. I don't know if it was because Pierce couldn't figure out how to be a super-plant mage, or that she just didn't feel the need for it. Instead, he does science as Crane uses the scientific method with magical ingredients to craft a cure for blue pox. I didn't necessarily appreciate all the quarantine reminders found in the book as we are in lockdown during a pandemic ourselves. However, I didn't enjoy the book.
I did notice the relationship between Rosethorn and Lark was a bit more obvious to my clueless brain. While there is no direct mention of them being a couple, Lark is the one Rosethorn asks for first after her near-death experience.
I also found the mix of science and magic to be interesting. Sadly, Briar didn't get to demonstrate his magical prowess, unlike the girls in their own books. I don't know if it was because Pierce couldn't figure out how to be a super-plant mage, or that she just didn't feel the need for it. Instead, he does science as Crane uses the scientific method with magical ingredients to craft a cure for blue pox. I didn't necessarily appreciate all the quarantine reminders found in the book as we are in lockdown during a pandemic ourselves. However, I didn't enjoy the book.