I fell in love with The Bronzed Beasts almost immediately. I knew I’d love the finale to one of my favorite series ever. And I was right. I needed a big break from reading after finishing, because wow. Keep reading this book review for my full thoughts.
Summary
Meanwhile, Séverin must balance the deranged whims of the Patriarch of the Fallen House and discover the location of a temple beneath a plague island where the Divine Lyre can be played and all that he desires will come to pass.
With only ten days until Laila expires, the crew will face plague pits and deadly masquerades, unearthly songs and the shining steps of a temple whose powers might offer divinity itself…but at a price they may not be willing to pay
Review
(Disclaimer: I received this book from the publisher. This has not impacted my review which is unbiased and honest.)
I knew from the beginning I was going to be emotionally destroyed. But I’m writing you from the beyond. Being back with my favorites, Chokshi swept me away in a whirlwind of dangerous action, glimmering betrayal, and sentences that enchanted me. The Bronzed Beasts is a true testament to the love of archaeological mysteries, found family which test you in a way only family can, and questions about what we would do with power and potential. It’s a stunning finale that brought tears to my eyes.
On a fundamental level, Chokshi’s writing will bewitch you. With lyrical genius and action that sprawls over decadent floors, The Bronzed Beasts is a feast for your senses. Atmospheric and detailed, I couldn’t pick a technical aspect I loved the most. Don’t even get me started on how unique this archaeological mystery and intrigue is which captivates me every time. Chokshi has created lore, hidden treasures, and puzzles that will send shivers down your back.
Characters & Themes
And then we get to the characters. The comments from Hypnos that left me laughing aloud. All the tension you could cut with a knife between Laila and Séverin. Please don’t get me started on how much I loved the character developments of Enrique and Zofia! I could never pick a favorite and you will never get an answer from me. They feel so dimensional, so detailed and colorful, so nuanced and flawed. Chokshi brings them to life before our eyes, into characters we can hear in our heads. The dynamics are like dances of moving forward. Of changing dancing partners, missteps, and heartbreak.
Beneath the action and characters, The Bronzed Beasts explores important themes like power and responsibility. What do we do with hopes and ambitions, with love and forgiveness? Do we deserve second chances? We can take those we love for granted, assuming they’re always have our back. But what about when we run out of lives? Presented with an opportunity which could change the world, what would we do with that power? It’s not something to be taken lightly.
Overall,
The Bronzed Beasts ripped my heart apart and put it back together. It is such an unforgettable finale that is masterful and expansive. If you have been following this series, I have no doubt you will have to read this book. There’s no way you can miss out on these characters or Chokshi’s action! And if you haven’t read this series, what are you doing reading this review, go read the first!
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