A review by vbzshenanigans
The Ending Fire by Saara El-Arifi

adventurous challenging emotional hopeful inspiring reflective tense medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? It's complicated
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

5.0

I was truly excited to read this finale as I had recently finished El-Arifi’s exquisite Faebound. 

Delving back into the Warden’s Empire and across the dangerous seas didn’t disappoint as we join the incredible cast of characters fighting across multiple fronts. The Blood Forged are seeking allies whilst the cultic Zalaam are creating a seemingly impossible to beat army to bring about the ‘Ending Fire’ of prophecy. Our group finally comes back together to fight what could be the end of the world as they know it. 

Anoor and Sylah are in completely different places and we see their heartbreaking journey as leaders, victims and friends to those willing to sacrifice themselves for them. Although there seems to be little hope for the lovers, every angst-filled moment is beautiful and memorable. 

The fantasy world-building El-Arifi is so skilled at had me invested in book one and that doesn’t let up as we discover more of the secrets of the world. Combining them seamlessly in this epic finale.

This novel takes all of the love you had for the characters in the previous two books, dials it up to the highest level and then leaves devastation in its wake.