Review: The Stunning Conclusion to the Advent Mage Cycle
Rating: 5 out of 5
Date: 09 19, 2012
The story continues where the last one left off and right away you're thrust into the middle of a fight with the Star Order. In this book, Garth navigates the various pitfalls of politics and social niceties, trying to please two kings and the various nobles throughout while also feverishly working to keep each kingdom from falling apart. You'll see harrowing action, love, mystery, and a ton of humorous situations. The tale doesn't end where you expect it to, and in fact, covers a number of events most authors tend to just gloss over during the course of a more 'traditional' fantasy novel.Those interested in the perspective of other characters will get a chance to experience events from another POV. Additionally, a lot of the events of the past that were hinted at are really flushed out in this book and you really get a sense of how things came to be. Personally, I didn't think the relationship between Garth and Chatta would be as interesting in this one. In my mind, as soon as the protagonist bags the love interest, *boom* story's over... I expect it to then end with some cheesy line like, "...and then they lived happily ever after." However, in this case the author really manages to keep the interest between the two at an all-time high. Chatta is no less strong-willed or intelligent now that she's "attached," and the couple experiences sweet, romantic situations without the writing becoming too lovey-dovey.All in all, I think this series has come a long way and I'm more than satisfied with where it ended. There is a lot that's left unexplained or unexplored, but the main stuff is covered and I think it's something of a requirement for a good book to leave you wanting more. If you're looking at this review, you've likely read the previous three books. In that case, you definitely don't want to miss out on this one, it's probably the best one yet.