A review by latoyadawson13
Ruin by John Gwynne

medium-paced

5.0

"Ruin," the third installment in John Gwynne's Faithful and the Fallen series, is a breathtaking high fantasy that surpasses all expectations – it's nothing short of phenomenal. The narrative is marked by a brilliant twist that adds an unexpected layer to the story, turning anticipated foreshadowing into a thrilling revelation.

The action sequences are a standout, delivering an immersive experience that keeps the reader on the edge of their seat. The moments of joy experienced by certain characters, particularly Maquin and Dath, bring a welcome respite amid the epic battles. Notably, the confrontation between Corban and Sumur is masterfully executed, leaving a lasting impact.

While there are instances where the storyline may have lost a bit of momentum or captivation, especially in segments involving Edana, these moments are easily overlooked in the grand scope of the narrative. The dynamic between Edana and Camlin, although not entirely gripping, still holds some interesting elements, particularly in the arcs of Vonn, Evnis, and the intriguing Rafe.

The final sentence of the novel delivers a gut-wrenching blow, fulfilling an anticipated event while leaving me hoping against hope that it wouldn't come to pass. Even in the portions where engagement may have wavered, the overall impact of the narrative remains formidable.

A minor quibble lies in the desire for a more decisive fate for the villains; there's a yearning for a higher toll on the antagonists. I eagerly anticipate the fate of Rafe in the upcoming fourth book, adding an extra layer of excitement to the series.

This book not only meets but exceeds my expectations. The anticipation for the next chapter in the series is palpable, fueled by the hope for more character development and the resolution of lingering plot lines.