ameliagb 's review for:

Valley by Stacey McEwan
4.0
adventurous medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven: A mix
Strong character development: Yes
Loveable characters: Complicated
Diverse cast of characters: Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus: Yes

A fine ending to an interesting series. This book by far had the most interesting plot of the three in the series. The inclusion of the Chasm, Yennes' backstory and the final battle really made the read a good one. I am impressed with the author's writing evolution across this series. I have rarely seen an author's writing improve so drastically over a series. I would say that vastly improved my opinion of this tilogy as it went on. This book had awesome prose and tone and her descriptions and dialogue were very good, especially in comparison to the first book. As for specifics, I very much liked the author's ability to utilize mythology from within the series universe to help lay the groundwork for the plot. Some authors are very heavy handed with that device and it can result in a lot of prophetical story telling which is interesting but can feel lazy at times. This story utilized mythology in a way that seems more realistic, in that usually myths and legends evolve over time and are told and passed down differently, depending on the location and culture of the story tellers. Another element I appreciated was that the author was not afraid to shy away from the concept of suicide. I think it is blindly idealistic for authors to avoid discussing that topic, especially for characters in dire situations. It's not to say that is a proper way out or should be utilized but it IS an element of human culture that often shows up in times of strife. I think it's naive to think that would not happen, if these situations were to be real. Overall, I enjoyed the book and I felt that it was a good and well-rounded way to end the series. I think this was a good first series for a newer author. It was unique and capturing, but utilized elements from fantasies in a way all it's own. It dragged on a little bit in places and the characters a bit flat but in total it was a good read.