I have been devouring F.T. Lukens books this year and The Last Best Quest has to be one of my favorites. I love a little skirting of the rules meets a quest and group dynamic! Keep reading this book review of The Last Best Quest for my full thoughts.
Summary
Seventeen-year-old Ellinore has the best questing record of anyone in the kingdom’s history. She also has a secret: her fame is built entirely on lies. Tired of the charade, she shocks the kingdom by retiring at a royal feast. But her plans for a quiet life are disrupted when her twin brother Zig bets his life that Ellinore can retrieve the horn of the mythical Elder Beast. To save Zig, she reluctantly sets out on one last, perilous quest.
Accompanying her are Zig, determined to help despite his recklessness; Aven, her envious rival eager to prove their superiority; an ambitious bar maiden turned adventurer; and a young, magic-wielding bard. Together, they face an arduous journey fraught with mythical challenges and shifting alliances. As they search for the Elder Beast, Ellinore grapples with her growing feelings for Aven, her fear of losing Zig, and her identity as a reluctant hero.
With time running out, Ellinore must confront not only the legendary creature but also her own truths. Can she save her brother, embrace her potential, and finally decide her path?
Review
(Disclaimer: I received this book from the publisher. This has not impacted my review which is unbiased and honest.)
The Last Best Quest is very much a story about quests and heists and last ditch efforts. But it’s also a story about feeling like we can never measure up, about trying to run from our problems, and the weight of expectations on our shoulders. It has such a big heart within this quest novel and I adored the characters. Lukens has a way with these fantasy worlds and specifically also brilliant character work within these stories. Ellinore doesn’t want to be a hero and is very much just trying to support her family. But she can’t hide from the fame and legacy no matter how much she tries.
And Aven who has this reputation that is haunting them. This fierce need to measure up, to prove themselves. I also love a good ‘interpretation of the rules’ and Ellinore is the Queen of that! Additionally, The Last Best Quest Ever explores this idea of one person over the world. It’s this universal theme and I loved the examination on the page. I adored the side characters so much and also the creatures in this world? Also what a perfect stand alone! I appreciate Lukens’s skill in these standalone worlds and plots! The Last Best Quest Ever has to be on your list if you love quests and heartfelt stories.
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Find The Last Best Quest Ever on Goodreads, Storygraph, Bookshop. org, Blackwells, & Libro. fm.