A Reign of Rose by Kate Golden.

Synopsis

From Kate Golden, author of viral phenomenon A Dawn of Onyx, comes the seductive, action-packed conclusion to her sweeping Sacred Stones trilogy.

They must save the world—but can they also save each other?

Kane Ravenwood, King of Onyx Kingdom, would go to the ends of the continent for Arwen Valondale, but what if she’s beyond even that? Broken in ways he never imagined he could be, Kane must find a way to fulfill the prophecy and kill his father, Fae King Lazarus. And after what he’s endured, he’s willing to save Evendell by whatever means necessary—even if that spells his own death.

Little does Kane know, he’s not the only one fighting for revenge. Arwen is no longer afraid to fight—no sacrifice is too great, no enemy too daunting. Now, nothing will stop her from destroying Lazarus and his allies, because she knows if she fails, both realms will be doomed forever.

Review

4,5 stars

Thank you so much Kate for giving me the opportunity to read an advanced reading copy and get to know how this story ends!!!

I think this must be the best book of the trilogy. And yet, when I read the author’s note, Kate explained she found it the most daunting as you have to leave no lose end, everything must make sense! Well, mission accomplished.

I will try to avoid any spoiler so this review will be on the shorter side and based on the notes I was taking while reading.

First note: 

“Arwen is suffering every day awaiting her wedding to the king to be used as a breeding tool. The goal :give the king a full blooded fae heir.”

Well I can tell you that reading about her captivity was no picnic at all and I was raging!

Second note:

“Kane believes her dead and is looking for the help of a sorcerer to turn him full blooded fae. But beware what you wish for as it will come with a catch. A huge catch.”

Following Kane in his quest was hard too and when he had his wish granted, let’s just say that it didn’t lessen my stress level! You have to admire his dedication though! That’s a tough guy !

Third note (edited to avoid spoilers):

“Past protagonists reveal to be ruthless!” Prepare for betrayal here! The heroes will have a lot  of ordeals and setbacks. It was very bad for my nails…

Fourth note:

“Lazarus is a despicable villain with world domination on his mind. He is so greedy he is causing the ruination of the realm.”

Well you have a true evil villain in that story! Powerful but also bordering on madness. Kane and Arwen will have their hands more than full!

Fifth note:

“Dread and anticipation and holding breath! Hanging on tight to my seat when faced with near death situation and mad escapes from burning cities crawling with enemy guards and monsters.”

I think that one is self-explanatory: that book was so engrossing and gripping that I sometimes forgot to breathe!

Sixth note:

“Arwen has grown so much since the beginning of the story. Going through near death multiple times, facing danger and overcoming her fear, being brave. Becoming worldly visiting all the different kingdoms and cities. Being aware that « it was courageous to just get up each day when there was so much to fear. Most importantly this woman liked herself. »”

Arwen’s character development throughout the series was truly amazing! She became so confident. A skilled fighter as well and I do love a badass female LOL

To add to these notes I also loved:

-The found family: »I loved these stories. The links between us all-how his family of sorts was held together through memory and history and laughter. »

-the romance with “I would let the world burn for you” vibe and spice!

-The  prophecies with deal to make.

-The action and ordeals keeping me interested;

And what I believe is a clue to a future series happening in the same world but…we’ll see if I am right.

All that to say that Kate did great and that if you loved the first two books you HAVE to read this one!

Thanks for reading.

Sophie