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The Last Gift #3
These Gossamer Strings
A God is Dead. A Queen is Missing. Secrets are Unraveling.
On trial for the murder of the King, Elenor and Gabriel must become allies if they want to survive. His magic is spiraling out of control, awakening a mystery hidden in the very walls of the palace. She has one month to pass her Water Rite and find a way out of the marriage her parents set up. But things are about to get much more complicated.
Between sadistic family members intent on taking Elenor’s throne, Tirit Mindel breathing down Gabriel’s neck, and a Golden Dragon appearing in the sky above the Mondaer Desert with an ominous warning, more than the Kingdom of Lirin is at stake.
If that weren’t bad enough, time is ticking down for Fedrik and Fay as well. With the desert turning against them and Daemon as a questionable new ally, figuring out how to control Fedrik’s Gift has become a matter of life and death.
Picking up in the fallout of Where Shadows Lie, In Silence Abiding is the long-awaited and non-stop second instalment of The Last Gift. Dive back into the world of Dracona and hold onto your hats. Things are about to get… salty.
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Author’s Note: While the Last Gift may be read as a stand-alone series, it is meant to be read alongside the other books of Project Ao. The Suggested Reading Order is:
Where Shadows Lie
NACL: Eye of the Storm
Solace of Memory (A Last Gift Novelette)
In Silence Abiding
NACL: Storm Surge (Forthcoming)
On trial for the murder of the King, Elenor and Gabriel must become allies if they want to survive. His magic is spiraling out of control, awakening a mystery hidden in the very walls of the palace. She has one month to pass her Water Rite and find a way out of the marriage her parents set up. But things are about to get much more complicated.
Between sadistic family members intent on taking Elenor’s throne, Tirit Mindel breathing down Gabriel’s neck, and a Golden Dragon appearing in the sky above the Mondaer Desert with an ominous warning, more than the Kingdom of Lirin is at stake.
If that weren’t bad enough, time is ticking down for Fedrik and Fay as well. With the desert turning against them and Daemon as a questionable new ally, figuring out how to control Fedrik’s Gift has become a matter of life and death.
Picking up in the fallout of Where Shadows Lie, In Silence Abiding is the long-awaited and non-stop second instalment of The Last Gift. Dive back into the world of Dracona and hold onto your hats. Things are about to get… salty.
-------
Author’s Note: While the Last Gift may be read as a stand-alone series, it is meant to be read alongside the other books of Project Ao. The Suggested Reading Order is:
Where Shadows Lie
NACL: Eye of the Storm
Solace of Memory (A Last Gift Novelette)
In Silence Abiding
NACL: Storm Surge (Forthcoming)
ebook
About the author
Allegra Pescatore
13 books117 followersBorn in a small Italian village, I went on a quest around the world and have finally settled into a magical cottage in PA. I write a lot, and I read a lot. Love all fantasy and sci-fi, especially if it features diverse characters or authors.
My ratings:
5 stars - Wonderful. I loved reading it, had a great time, and will likely read it again and talk about it with my friends.
4 stars - good, solid, enjoyable book. I had fun and while I may not read it again, I'm glad I did.
3 stars - Not particularly memorable, but I'm happy I found it. While it may not have been my cup of tea, I'm glad it exists.
2 stars - This had issues. Not unreadable, but not something I finished or enjoyed in the end.
1 star - DNF or read because I am a masochist to loves pain. Someone else might love it, but it was not for me.
No rating: Either I haven't gotten around to writing a review, I didn't finish it, or it was not my genre of choice and therefore I chose not to review it because I am not the intended audience.
My ratings:
5 stars - Wonderful. I loved reading it, had a great time, and will likely read it again and talk about it with my friends.
4 stars - good, solid, enjoyable book. I had fun and while I may not read it again, I'm glad I did.
3 stars - Not particularly memorable, but I'm happy I found it. While it may not have been my cup of tea, I'm glad it exists.
2 stars - This had issues. Not unreadable, but not something I finished or enjoyed in the end.
1 star - DNF or read because I am a masochist to loves pain. Someone else might love it, but it was not for me.
No rating: Either I haven't gotten around to writing a review, I didn't finish it, or it was not my genre of choice and therefore I chose not to review it because I am not the intended audience.
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Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews
June 28, 2022
I've been waiting for this one! The Last Gift series holds a very special place in my heart. i think it was the first indie fantasy series I really fell in love with, so of course I was thrilled when Allegra sent me a review copy. So thrilled, in fact, that I plopped down and read all 800 pages this afternoon.
That's a lot to put on a book before you've even opened it up, but These Gossamer Strings delivers entirely.
I believe my one and only critique of the previous volumes in the series is that Claire, the love interest, felt a little flat, like she wasn't her own person with her own motivations. I was assured we'd get to see her bloom in this volume and, boy, does that promise come true! Claire is a wonderful character. There's some tricky territory in her relationship with Elenor (not exactly analogous, but like a lot of queer people I've had the experience of trying to manage a relationship with someone you truly care about but who is unwilling to come out and be open about your relationship, and understanding that's necessary for them while also having your own feelings, and that's sort of what El is doing to Claire), which is shown with sympathy and grace to both characters.
Moving on: the book is just as politically intricate and twisty as its predecessors, which I very much enjoyed. Loved getting a glimpse into some foreign governments we hadn't seen before. The world of this book feels so infinite, like you could just explore it forever without running off the edges of the imagined map. From religion to border politics to diseases, this world has so many things that fantasy often lacks, that make it feel so much more real.
It's hard to get too far into plot without spoiling some pretty mindblowing events of the book, so suffice it to say that the story is incredibly exciting and intricate, and that worlds collide here in an unexpected way.
But my favorite aspect of this book, by far, is the characters. The relationship between Elenor and Lilian is so intense and so wrenching.
This is an ambitious entry in a huge, expansive series. It requires time and investment on the part of its readers, but I assure you, it's a worthy one!
That's a lot to put on a book before you've even opened it up, but These Gossamer Strings delivers entirely.
I believe my one and only critique of the previous volumes in the series is that Claire, the love interest, felt a little flat, like she wasn't her own person with her own motivations. I was assured we'd get to see her bloom in this volume and, boy, does that promise come true! Claire is a wonderful character. There's some tricky territory in her relationship with Elenor (not exactly analogous, but like a lot of queer people I've had the experience of trying to manage a relationship with someone you truly care about but who is unwilling to come out and be open about your relationship, and understanding that's necessary for them while also having your own feelings, and that's sort of what El is doing to Claire), which is shown with sympathy and grace to both characters.
Moving on: the book is just as politically intricate and twisty as its predecessors, which I very much enjoyed. Loved getting a glimpse into some foreign governments we hadn't seen before. The world of this book feels so infinite, like you could just explore it forever without running off the edges of the imagined map. From religion to border politics to diseases, this world has so many things that fantasy often lacks, that make it feel so much more real.
It's hard to get too far into plot without spoiling some pretty mindblowing events of the book, so suffice it to say that the story is incredibly exciting and intricate, and that worlds collide here in an unexpected way.
But my favorite aspect of this book, by far, is the characters. The relationship between Elenor and Lilian is so intense and so wrenching.
This is an ambitious entry in a huge, expansive series. It requires time and investment on the part of its readers, but I assure you, it's a worthy one!
July 5, 2022
Wow, what an ending to the first story arc of The Last Gift.
Thank you, Allegra, for sending me an advanced copy! This way I was able to continue the series immediately and didn’t have to wait for the release day (I know, it’s just a few days, but still). The first two books in the series got to me and I simply couldn’t stop reading. Even though book 3 is ~800 pages long, I read it within a few days (much faster than I usually would read a book this size).
Book 3 continues where book 2 left off. We are in the middle of the story, everything is still open, and our main characters have to wiggle their way through all the intrigue that has been following them. Obviously, I can’t say much without spoiling the first two books, but man… this was a wild ride (also, I LOVE Daemon :) ). Personally, I thought a few scenes (i.e., dialogues that repeated things we already knew) were a bit too drawn out at times. But when things were happening, I barely had time to take a breath. We are thrown around in the plot, thinking things are finally being resolved just for something to surprise us.
I’m a bit miffed about the ending though. While a few storylines are resolved, there’s still a lot in the air (no cliffhanger). I didn’t realize that this trilogy is only the first story arc of a more extended series.
But if you enjoy fast-paced Fantasy with a modern twist and fascinating and well-developed characters, it’s so worth reading! Definitely a new favorite of mine!
Thank you, Allegra, for sending me an advanced copy! This way I was able to continue the series immediately and didn’t have to wait for the release day (I know, it’s just a few days, but still). The first two books in the series got to me and I simply couldn’t stop reading. Even though book 3 is ~800 pages long, I read it within a few days (much faster than I usually would read a book this size).
Book 3 continues where book 2 left off. We are in the middle of the story, everything is still open, and our main characters have to wiggle their way through all the intrigue that has been following them. Obviously, I can’t say much without spoiling the first two books, but man… this was a wild ride (also, I LOVE Daemon :) ). Personally, I thought a few scenes (i.e., dialogues that repeated things we already knew) were a bit too drawn out at times. But when things were happening, I barely had time to take a breath. We are thrown around in the plot, thinking things are finally being resolved just for something to surprise us.
I’m a bit miffed about the ending though. While a few storylines are resolved, there’s still a lot in the air (no cliffhanger). I didn’t realize that this trilogy is only the first story arc of a more extended series.
But if you enjoy fast-paced Fantasy with a modern twist and fascinating and well-developed characters, it’s so worth reading! Definitely a new favorite of mine!
July 12, 2022
As good as Where Shadows Lie. (The Last Gift # 1)
July 15, 2022
Every time I read one of Allegra Pescatore’s books, I get far too involved and start freaking out whenever the world goes sideways for the characters. Which, to be fair, is often. These Gossamer Strings was no exception.
1. Thoughts on the plot
This is the third book in The Last Gift series, and if you have not read books one and two, you will be mightily confused. However, if you have read books one and two, be prepared for the reuniting of certain characters, the return of Elenor the cunning and awesome main character, and a whole pile of intrigue and intricacy. There really is no good way for me to describe the plot simply, as it is a highly involved set of events that rely on such marvellous details of character interaction to advance the story. It’s like slowly zooming out on a wall-sized tapestry, where you start with one thread and slowly, slowly, add more until you see the final picture. And that final picture? It’s a battle scene. With magic.
Anyways, the plot was fantastic. I was never lost or confused and I loved seeing plot lines and threads from earlier books tied up neatly, if with flair.
2. Thoughts on the characters
This book, I think, is where the characters really get to shine. In books one and two, there was a bit of floundering for information as the characters tried to come to terms with their new realities. In this book, they still lacked certain information, but the characters—all of them, frankly—decided that they were going to do something about the situation regardless. And the effects were stunning.
Elenor really managed to shine in this book, and Gabriel did as well. I really loved them taking charge and stealing the show.
3. Favourite part
The basement cult! The really creepy basement cult!
4. Critique
I don’t really have a critique for this book. The prose was fantastic, the story was decidedly fascinating, the characters made me smile (or not, depending on the situation), and the mock dragon won the day. My only real problem is that I don’t know when the next book will be available!
Overall, I would say that These Gossamer Strings was an absolutely exceptional third book to a series that I will probably read over and over again.
1. Thoughts on the plot
This is the third book in The Last Gift series, and if you have not read books one and two, you will be mightily confused. However, if you have read books one and two, be prepared for the reuniting of certain characters, the return of Elenor the cunning and awesome main character, and a whole pile of intrigue and intricacy. There really is no good way for me to describe the plot simply, as it is a highly involved set of events that rely on such marvellous details of character interaction to advance the story. It’s like slowly zooming out on a wall-sized tapestry, where you start with one thread and slowly, slowly, add more until you see the final picture. And that final picture? It’s a battle scene. With magic.
Anyways, the plot was fantastic. I was never lost or confused and I loved seeing plot lines and threads from earlier books tied up neatly, if with flair.
2. Thoughts on the characters
This book, I think, is where the characters really get to shine. In books one and two, there was a bit of floundering for information as the characters tried to come to terms with their new realities. In this book, they still lacked certain information, but the characters—all of them, frankly—decided that they were going to do something about the situation regardless. And the effects were stunning.
Elenor really managed to shine in this book, and Gabriel did as well. I really loved them taking charge and stealing the show.
3. Favourite part
The basement cult! The really creepy basement cult!
4. Critique
I don’t really have a critique for this book. The prose was fantastic, the story was decidedly fascinating, the characters made me smile (or not, depending on the situation), and the mock dragon won the day. My only real problem is that I don’t know when the next book will be available!
Overall, I would say that These Gossamer Strings was an absolutely exceptional third book to a series that I will probably read over and over again.
July 29, 2022
4.5 stars
For some reason I thought that this was going to be the last book in the series. Let me tell you now—it isn’t. I kept reading this and looking nervously at the bottom of my Kindle and thinking, Is there enough time left to finish everything up? It was a lot of fun, and some storylines do start to come together, but it is definitely not finished 😢
Arrrggghhhh I don’t wanna wait for the next book!!! Anyway, moving on…
This book picks up where the second book ends. Elenor is getting ready to stand trial for the murder of her father, and is also preparing for her Water Rite—where she will need to swim across the Claire River before she can claim the throne. She is also trying to find a way out of the engagement orchestrated by her cruel aunt Sianta, all while looking for a cure to the poison that Sianta has poisoned Paul with.
Gabriel begins to suspect more about his past, and uncovers lies that Robin and Fay have told. He also must work on controlling his dangerous and powerful magic.
Daemon desperately searches for a way to kill the Gods, and protect the people of Ayre. He also puzzles over his strange connection to Elenor, and helps her with anything she needs. He worries about a confrontation with Alehan.
Fedrik and Fay keep trying to control Fedrik’s Gatekeeper gift, and survive the changing politics of the Monader desert. The people of the desert become increasingly desperate to locate the Incarnate.
Daemon is still my favorite character. His scenes are always so full of action! I’m starting to dislike North. I like Alehan, and I’m glad he got quite a few chapters. It’ll be interesting to see where his story goes. Fedrik and Fay’s scenes were a little slow moving for the first half of the book, but picked up later on. Sometimes the court politics dragged on a little, but the action scenes in between made up for it. My favorite was the scene at the Salion mines with all the rifters 😱
It was a very long book, but it was a lot of fun and I’m excited for the next one. 😃
For some reason I thought that this was going to be the last book in the series. Let me tell you now—it isn’t. I kept reading this and looking nervously at the bottom of my Kindle and thinking, Is there enough time left to finish everything up? It was a lot of fun, and some storylines do start to come together, but it is definitely not finished 😢
Arrrggghhhh I don’t wanna wait for the next book!!! Anyway, moving on…
This book picks up where the second book ends. Elenor is getting ready to stand trial for the murder of her father, and is also preparing for her Water Rite—where she will need to swim across the Claire River before she can claim the throne. She is also trying to find a way out of the engagement orchestrated by her cruel aunt Sianta, all while looking for a cure to the poison that Sianta has poisoned Paul with.
Gabriel begins to suspect more about his past, and uncovers lies that Robin and Fay have told. He also must work on controlling his dangerous and powerful magic.
Daemon desperately searches for a way to kill the Gods, and protect the people of Ayre. He also puzzles over his strange connection to Elenor, and helps her with anything she needs. He worries about a confrontation with Alehan.
Fedrik and Fay keep trying to control Fedrik’s Gatekeeper gift, and survive the changing politics of the Monader desert. The people of the desert become increasingly desperate to locate the Incarnate.
Daemon is still my favorite character. His scenes are always so full of action! I’m starting to dislike North. I like Alehan, and I’m glad he got quite a few chapters. It’ll be interesting to see where his story goes. Fedrik and Fay’s scenes were a little slow moving for the first half of the book, but picked up later on. Sometimes the court politics dragged on a little, but the action scenes in between made up for it. My favorite was the scene at the Salion mines with all the rifters 😱
It was a very long book, but it was a lot of fun and I’m excited for the next one. 😃
July 17, 2022
Wow does this book ever deserve 5 stars! It’s the third book in The Last Gift series and it finishes up the first story arc but I understand there’s more to come (yay 😁). I can’t say much about the plot because I don’t want to spoil the first books but I will say that it’s fast paced, intricate, and it was hard to put this book down! I never felt lost as to what was going on despite the layers and multiple POVs. I really want to go back and read the series again now knowing what happens just to see all the foreshadowing and details that I’ve forgotten (I read the first book over a year ago). This series is truly epic and I think I’ll enjoy it even more when I read it again.
I think I’ve said it before, but my favourite things about fantasy books are the worlds and the characters, and both are fabulous in this book! The world and magic are so detailed and you can just tell how much work the author has put into it. And the worldbuilding is worked effortlessly into the story so it’s never info-dumpy and doesn’t drag the plot. I’m more fascinated by this world with each book I read. I also love all the characters! There’s many POVs and I like all of them. Each character has their own voice which is awesome. Fay and Fedrick have previously been my favourites, but honestly in this book I don’t know if I can pick a favourite because they are all great! I did particularly like Elenor’s storyline though.
I received an ARC from the author and I’m voluntarily leaving an honest review.
I think I’ve said it before, but my favourite things about fantasy books are the worlds and the characters, and both are fabulous in this book! The world and magic are so detailed and you can just tell how much work the author has put into it. And the worldbuilding is worked effortlessly into the story so it’s never info-dumpy and doesn’t drag the plot. I’m more fascinated by this world with each book I read. I also love all the characters! There’s many POVs and I like all of them. Each character has their own voice which is awesome. Fay and Fedrick have previously been my favourites, but honestly in this book I don’t know if I can pick a favourite because they are all great! I did particularly like Elenor’s storyline though.
I received an ARC from the author and I’m voluntarily leaving an honest review.
July 18, 2022
With the review of Book 2, Whispers of Stone, I mentioned that this book, These Gossamer Strings, would likely be stellar because all the dangling plot threads would be sewn up.
I’m both sad and happy to say that it hasn’t proven true. Oh, the stellar part most definitely! While plots resolved for better or worse, there were new things to think about and people to follow. At one point, I actually took a moment to have a silent round of applause for sly maneuvering that opened a whole new plane of possibilities.
CharactersL we love to hate have proven tricky to define. If there is one thing I will give this author, it’s that she knows how to create characters awash in shades of undertone and overtone. Going into a head-on meeting between good v. bad, you’re not always certain that parties will walk away unchanged. The people you cheered last chapter might very well be holding a knife with intent to kill a favourite in this chapter. With political skullduggery going at every level, it’s easy to keep the guesswork going.
There is one very important person missing without explanation at the closing of this book, one whom I hope will play a large part in the following book(s).
I liked the style and pacing of the words, the characters came to life not afraid to speak their truth or show vulnerability, and the plot was superb!
Looking forward to the next.
I’m both sad and happy to say that it hasn’t proven true. Oh, the stellar part most definitely! While plots resolved for better or worse, there were new things to think about and people to follow. At one point, I actually took a moment to have a silent round of applause for sly maneuvering that opened a whole new plane of possibilities.
CharactersL we love to hate have proven tricky to define. If there is one thing I will give this author, it’s that she knows how to create characters awash in shades of undertone and overtone. Going into a head-on meeting between good v. bad, you’re not always certain that parties will walk away unchanged. The people you cheered last chapter might very well be holding a knife with intent to kill a favourite in this chapter. With political skullduggery going at every level, it’s easy to keep the guesswork going.
There is one very important person missing without explanation at the closing of this book, one whom I hope will play a large part in the following book(s).
I liked the style and pacing of the words, the characters came to life not afraid to speak their truth or show vulnerability, and the plot was superb!
Looking forward to the next.
June 29, 2022
What can I say about this book? Oh, wow...
From the very start, the stakes are high, and all the character's stories are weaving together at last. It's not constant tension, though, there are light moments, laugh out loud moments, and moments where the characters seize what they want and take it!
Every single one of the POV characters is someone I enjoy riding around with; no one feels whiny or overdone, and each one breathes with their unique voice. I don't even have favourites, because that would be like choosing between my friends! And I can't do that.
It is truly EPIC, and I mean that in every sense of the word. The sheer amount of foreshadowing, from the very first volume to where they end up; the scenery and the worldbuilding, described just enough to give us a flavour and yet the magic system is so detailed and feels real enough to touch; and the characters, oh, the characters are the best part! Please, give this series a try. You won't regret it!
From the very start, the stakes are high, and all the character's stories are weaving together at last. It's not constant tension, though, there are light moments, laugh out loud moments, and moments where the characters seize what they want and take it!
Every single one of the POV characters is someone I enjoy riding around with; no one feels whiny or overdone, and each one breathes with their unique voice. I don't even have favourites, because that would be like choosing between my friends! And I can't do that.
It is truly EPIC, and I mean that in every sense of the word. The sheer amount of foreshadowing, from the very first volume to where they end up; the scenery and the worldbuilding, described just enough to give us a flavour and yet the magic system is so detailed and feels real enough to touch; and the characters, oh, the characters are the best part! Please, give this series a try. You won't regret it!
August 17, 2022
I had been waiting eagerly for this third book from the last gift saga and it definitely didn't disappoint!
I'm truly enjoying getting to know all the characters more. Really well written characters with a lot of depth and nuances to them that make you love them, loathe them and keep you hooked up to know more.
The plot is extremely enthralling with lots of twist that keep you on your toes and swings that you didn't see coming.
I really like how the book is written from different points of view and we get to know some details from some characters before the actual interested person, making you want to read even faster to see when they discover and what their reactions will be.
Layers I would say is the word, layers to all the players and layers and layers of plot!!
It will make you stay up all night and be left with wanting more!! Good thing that there is more coming and I can't wait to read what's next!!
I'm truly enjoying getting to know all the characters more. Really well written characters with a lot of depth and nuances to them that make you love them, loathe them and keep you hooked up to know more.
The plot is extremely enthralling with lots of twist that keep you on your toes and swings that you didn't see coming.
I really like how the book is written from different points of view and we get to know some details from some characters before the actual interested person, making you want to read even faster to see when they discover and what their reactions will be.
Layers I would say is the word, layers to all the players and layers and layers of plot!!
It will make you stay up all night and be left with wanting more!! Good thing that there is more coming and I can't wait to read what's next!!
May 9, 2023
Cancel your plans and stock up on caffeine, because once you start this one, you aren't going to want to stop. The entire Last Gift series has been great, but this book is truly a masterpiece.
It's full of characters you can't help but root for, moments both action-packed and heartwarming (I lost count of how many times I cried), and twists you won't see coming.
This book also really drives home how thoroughly modern the series is, which is really refreshing for the fantasy genre. Characters have different races, sexual orientations, and physical abilities. They suffer from mental trauma and navigate complex relationships that differ from traditionally defined roles and expectations. They go places you'd never expect characters in a fantasy world to go (I won't spoil it for you, but you'll the surprised where Claire ends up!)
It's full of characters you can't help but root for, moments both action-packed and heartwarming (I lost count of how many times I cried), and twists you won't see coming.
This book also really drives home how thoroughly modern the series is, which is really refreshing for the fantasy genre. Characters have different races, sexual orientations, and physical abilities. They suffer from mental trauma and navigate complex relationships that differ from traditionally defined roles and expectations. They go places you'd never expect characters in a fantasy world to go (I won't spoil it for you, but you'll the surprised where Claire ends up!)
September 19, 2022
Literally so f**** good I am speechless. Not only does it have a badass chronically ill disabled queer heroine (who at a time when I’m in the middle of a flare I really needed) but also an incredible magic system/universe, intense political intrigue, plot twists and the most amazing lovable (and some hateable characters). It also has a whole universe of other incredible stories which I’ve already started on and can’t wait to continue. I don’t know how I’m going to wait for the next book I need to know what happens to Elenor and Gabriel and Fedrik and Daemon and Alehan NOW.
August 19, 2023
I would give this series 10 stars if I could. Love, love, love. The ups and downs and twists and turns were SO GOOD. This book felt like the high fantasy I've been dreaming of. And to find out it's in an interconnected universe. The writing is fantastic, the character development is superb. The magic and the world building and the dragons are perfect. The antagonists are so terrible it will make you scream, but yet. The main characters fight tooth and nail for a world they believe in, and I can't wait to find out what that looks like.
January 24, 2024
This book shredded my soul and I have ZERO regrets as I sit here at 1:30AM, not having been able to stop reading it very much for the past week. Most of this book has the characters facing challenge after challenge and when you think things can’t get worse, they do…until they FINALLY get better. You feel every possible emotion for the characters. Also, major appreciation for the disability and LGBTQ visibility.
March 12, 2023
Gripping
I love the characters, the raw emotion, the intrigue. Take a chance on this series, and you will not be disappointed.
I love the characters, the raw emotion, the intrigue. Take a chance on this series, and you will not be disappointed.
September 26, 2022
I had been waiting for this book! Whispers of Stone had left me wanting to know what happened next, and mercifully These Gossamer Strings gives us just that as it picks up the threads of the story at the same point, and in such a way that I found myself just flying through this beefy book. Returning to this world, and these characters felt a lot like settling down in nook with old friends… if that nook was on a roller coaster, with dragon fire on all sides, and the distinct possibility of twists and turns that will catch you by surprise and have you holding your breath as those flames come a little too close.
There was a lot packed into this book, and with the intrigue and pieces falling into place that have been built up in plot lines, and hints, over the course of the previous books, I think it would be impossible to fully describe the plot even if I was willing to spoil it (which I’m not). What I will say is that Pescatore does an amazing job of balancing all those previously established elements, while introducing new ones and continuing to expand on the world, the characters and the plot with the introduction of new threads, without dropping the ball on any of them, and even with the feeling of being on a roller coaster at times, I was never confused or lost about the different threads that were unfolding, and that is down to the author’s skill as a storyteller.
It’s also in part down to the characters. As with the previous two books, These Gossamer Strings is intensely character-driven, and in this one it felt as though the entire cast of characters really found their feet. There had been a lot of development, and making sense of the various situations they found themselves in during the previous books, and here it felt like it was really bearing fruit. Which isn’t to say that there wasn’t more growth and development throughout this book, because there was, but it felt like there was more of a foundation here, and it felt like a wonderful payoff for their arcs during the previous books. It also meant that it was so easy to fall into each character’s plotline, making sense of it with them, seeing them fly now that they had goals.
“ Elenor was too, once, but cruelty is all she’s ever known from those who should have been closest to her. That has a way of warping people.”
Elenor has been a favourite of mine throughout all the books, so I will admit to being a bit biased towards her, but she really did steal the limelight in this one. In Whispers of Stone we could see her maturing and coming into her own as she stepped into a role of authority, and dealt with the threats around her, but that development was raw and fresh. Here it feels like she has really come of age, and while she is still learning, still growing into who she needs to be, there was an assuredness that was enrapturing to read about. I also loved, seeing her relationship Claire and the challenges that they faced both internal and external, and I have to say that of all the characters Claire was the one that took me by surprise the most. She hadn’t felt quite as developed as some of the others in the earlier books, but here, she not only shared Elenor’s limelight but stole her own, and it felt as though we got to really know her in this book and not just because of that relationship. And, honestly, Claire is a perfect example of just how much Pescatore can do with her characterisation, and how invested she can make the reader become.
Gabriel was another character who came into his own in These Gossamer Strings, and was another that stole the show, and underwent some of the greatest development while remaining the wonderful character I’d come to love; and I have to say his part of the ending was one of my favourite moments in the book and felt like a very fitting step for a character who had such an integral role in everything.
“I care because, unlike North, I believe that the core of this snarly behavior is a hurting heart and centuries of life without people who can tell you to stop.”
I still adore Daemon, and where I said it felt like we were starting to see the layers being peeled away to see who he was at his core in Whispers of Stone, that process very much continues in this book. He still has his moments where I would gleefully shake some sense into him, but he was very much a favourite – and seeing his concern, and his efforts, and the vulnerabilities that he tried to hide was fantastic. He was also central to some of the most action-packed moments, and the cause of more than one held breath!
That isn’t to say that all the characters are likeable – some are downright detestable – and even those that are favourites, have so many moments and aspects that have you questioning them. And it’s fantastic, because not only does it add to the intrigue which has coloured so much of this series, but it also shows the depth and variety of the characterisation. These are not paragons, they are people shaped by events, and beliefs, and trapped by situations, and forced to act sometimes against their own natures, and it is just such a great dimension to have woven throughout the storylines.
The worldbuilding has also continued to expand throughout the series, developing as the characters have learned more about the world and universe, and I love that we got to see so many new aspects in this third book. It really felt as though the scope of the world and all its elements were really being pushed, and that sense of breadth and depth was really captured with the interweaving of new and old elements. In a series that features so much intrigue and shifting allegiances, it was great to have insights into different factions that were involved, and it created a much more rounded view of the events. Everything about the worldbuilding, whether it be the magical system or the dragons, to the more mundane aspects of life, to the complex political webs is incredibly well thought-out, and here is where you can really feel the author’s love for the world shining through; and I love that it still feels as though there is more waiting to be discovered at the edge of the map.
It’s a little hard to judge These Gossamer Strings as the end of a trilogy. On the one hand, I loved the story threads that it did tie together and seeing the arc that was started in Whispers of Stone come to completion was fantastic. On the other hand, it does feel like there is some threads that weren’t resolved – that said, I can’t really voice that as a criticism, because it means there is more to come! I think like others, I hadn’t fully realised that this series was just one arc in this shared world and looking at it in that light then I am even more satisfied with the ending, and it feels fitting that there are tendrils of story and character reaching out into the future for those stories still to come. Also, outwith any thought of plotlines being tied up and future stories, that ENDING!!! Remember when I said at the beginning it felt like a roller coaster coming a little too close to dragon fire? Well yeah, this ending really did live up to that.
The Last Gift has been a fantastic series from start to finish, and These Gossamer Strings was a strong conclusion to this part of the story. Pescatore has really created something different with this series which blends so many elements and storylines, but never loses sight of them or itself, and has a truly compelling cast of characters. I can’t wait to see where she takes this next, and if you haven’t picked up this series yet then I strongly recommend it!
There was a lot packed into this book, and with the intrigue and pieces falling into place that have been built up in plot lines, and hints, over the course of the previous books, I think it would be impossible to fully describe the plot even if I was willing to spoil it (which I’m not). What I will say is that Pescatore does an amazing job of balancing all those previously established elements, while introducing new ones and continuing to expand on the world, the characters and the plot with the introduction of new threads, without dropping the ball on any of them, and even with the feeling of being on a roller coaster at times, I was never confused or lost about the different threads that were unfolding, and that is down to the author’s skill as a storyteller.
It’s also in part down to the characters. As with the previous two books, These Gossamer Strings is intensely character-driven, and in this one it felt as though the entire cast of characters really found their feet. There had been a lot of development, and making sense of the various situations they found themselves in during the previous books, and here it felt like it was really bearing fruit. Which isn’t to say that there wasn’t more growth and development throughout this book, because there was, but it felt like there was more of a foundation here, and it felt like a wonderful payoff for their arcs during the previous books. It also meant that it was so easy to fall into each character’s plotline, making sense of it with them, seeing them fly now that they had goals.
“ Elenor was too, once, but cruelty is all she’s ever known from those who should have been closest to her. That has a way of warping people.”
Elenor has been a favourite of mine throughout all the books, so I will admit to being a bit biased towards her, but she really did steal the limelight in this one. In Whispers of Stone we could see her maturing and coming into her own as she stepped into a role of authority, and dealt with the threats around her, but that development was raw and fresh. Here it feels like she has really come of age, and while she is still learning, still growing into who she needs to be, there was an assuredness that was enrapturing to read about. I also loved, seeing her relationship Claire and the challenges that they faced both internal and external, and I have to say that of all the characters Claire was the one that took me by surprise the most. She hadn’t felt quite as developed as some of the others in the earlier books, but here, she not only shared Elenor’s limelight but stole her own, and it felt as though we got to really know her in this book and not just because of that relationship. And, honestly, Claire is a perfect example of just how much Pescatore can do with her characterisation, and how invested she can make the reader become.
Gabriel was another character who came into his own in These Gossamer Strings, and was another that stole the show, and underwent some of the greatest development while remaining the wonderful character I’d come to love; and I have to say his part of the ending was one of my favourite moments in the book and felt like a very fitting step for a character who had such an integral role in everything.
“I care because, unlike North, I believe that the core of this snarly behavior is a hurting heart and centuries of life without people who can tell you to stop.”
I still adore Daemon, and where I said it felt like we were starting to see the layers being peeled away to see who he was at his core in Whispers of Stone, that process very much continues in this book. He still has his moments where I would gleefully shake some sense into him, but he was very much a favourite – and seeing his concern, and his efforts, and the vulnerabilities that he tried to hide was fantastic. He was also central to some of the most action-packed moments, and the cause of more than one held breath!
That isn’t to say that all the characters are likeable – some are downright detestable – and even those that are favourites, have so many moments and aspects that have you questioning them. And it’s fantastic, because not only does it add to the intrigue which has coloured so much of this series, but it also shows the depth and variety of the characterisation. These are not paragons, they are people shaped by events, and beliefs, and trapped by situations, and forced to act sometimes against their own natures, and it is just such a great dimension to have woven throughout the storylines.
The worldbuilding has also continued to expand throughout the series, developing as the characters have learned more about the world and universe, and I love that we got to see so many new aspects in this third book. It really felt as though the scope of the world and all its elements were really being pushed, and that sense of breadth and depth was really captured with the interweaving of new and old elements. In a series that features so much intrigue and shifting allegiances, it was great to have insights into different factions that were involved, and it created a much more rounded view of the events. Everything about the worldbuilding, whether it be the magical system or the dragons, to the more mundane aspects of life, to the complex political webs is incredibly well thought-out, and here is where you can really feel the author’s love for the world shining through; and I love that it still feels as though there is more waiting to be discovered at the edge of the map.
It’s a little hard to judge These Gossamer Strings as the end of a trilogy. On the one hand, I loved the story threads that it did tie together and seeing the arc that was started in Whispers of Stone come to completion was fantastic. On the other hand, it does feel like there is some threads that weren’t resolved – that said, I can’t really voice that as a criticism, because it means there is more to come! I think like others, I hadn’t fully realised that this series was just one arc in this shared world and looking at it in that light then I am even more satisfied with the ending, and it feels fitting that there are tendrils of story and character reaching out into the future for those stories still to come. Also, outwith any thought of plotlines being tied up and future stories, that ENDING!!! Remember when I said at the beginning it felt like a roller coaster coming a little too close to dragon fire? Well yeah, this ending really did live up to that.
The Last Gift has been a fantastic series from start to finish, and These Gossamer Strings was a strong conclusion to this part of the story. Pescatore has really created something different with this series which blends so many elements and storylines, but never loses sight of them or itself, and has a truly compelling cast of characters. I can’t wait to see where she takes this next, and if you haven’t picked up this series yet then I strongly recommend it!
June 30, 2023
I've reviewed the other two books in this series, so when the author offered me a copy of the third, I was thrilled to accept!
This one moves much more quickly than the second one. Whereas the second one is very much a simmering boil of making plans and building relationships, things turn to chaos pretty soon in this one and stay that way. The "it has begun" moment kicks off like halfway through the book and this thing is nearly 700 pages. I'm pretty sure at least 150 of those pages is just recounting what happens in a single 24 hour period. That is to say, it was SO GOOD.
I did critique the second book for having second book syndrome, as so little happened after the end of the first, but this book goes a long way in redeeming that factor. There's so much that goes down that the character relationships and plots need to already have been built beforehand so it all makes sense when they're all colliding one after another. That's not to say I wasn't confused at parts. But high fantasy usually does that to me, so I let it slide.
I'll be honest, I still have no idea how most of the tech works in this universe. Daemon's parts are always trying to explain circuits and connections and I don't think any of it has ever landed. Thankfully, as long as you know "this big machine needs to do the thing" the rest usually takes care of itself.
There is a big reveal in this book that comes *very* close to jumping the shark. Obviously I won't elaborate for spoiler reasons, but the only reason I'm not taking off a star for it is because I took off a star for the previous book's pacing issues and those did actually pay off. So I'm giving the author the benefit of the doubt that this will be fleshed out and explained in future installments in this fictional universe. But as it is I am giving some major side eye.
I always try to rate the climactic scene in a book, as endings are critical for me. But I can't think of any one scene that could be considered the climax. The last 200 pages are all explosions and giant reveals and old schemes finally coming to fruition. I will say the author is a sneaky bitch that knows my greatest weakness (tearful reunions) and used them against me. But it was to great effect, so I can't complain.
All in all, I would say a fantastic end to this arc. And a great set up for a new one.
This one moves much more quickly than the second one. Whereas the second one is very much a simmering boil of making plans and building relationships, things turn to chaos pretty soon in this one and stay that way. The "it has begun" moment kicks off like halfway through the book and this thing is nearly 700 pages. I'm pretty sure at least 150 of those pages is just recounting what happens in a single 24 hour period. That is to say, it was SO GOOD.
I did critique the second book for having second book syndrome, as so little happened after the end of the first, but this book goes a long way in redeeming that factor. There's so much that goes down that the character relationships and plots need to already have been built beforehand so it all makes sense when they're all colliding one after another. That's not to say I wasn't confused at parts. But high fantasy usually does that to me, so I let it slide.
I'll be honest, I still have no idea how most of the tech works in this universe. Daemon's parts are always trying to explain circuits and connections and I don't think any of it has ever landed. Thankfully, as long as you know "this big machine needs to do the thing" the rest usually takes care of itself.
There is a big reveal in this book that comes *very* close to jumping the shark. Obviously I won't elaborate for spoiler reasons, but the only reason I'm not taking off a star for it is because I took off a star for the previous book's pacing issues and those did actually pay off. So I'm giving the author the benefit of the doubt that this will be fleshed out and explained in future installments in this fictional universe. But as it is I am giving some major side eye.
I always try to rate the climactic scene in a book, as endings are critical for me. But I can't think of any one scene that could be considered the climax. The last 200 pages are all explosions and giant reveals and old schemes finally coming to fruition. I will say the author is a sneaky bitch that knows my greatest weakness (tearful reunions) and used them against me. But it was to great effect, so I can't complain.
All in all, I would say a fantastic end to this arc. And a great set up for a new one.
August 15, 2023
Fantastic ending to a great series. One of the most unique fantasy books I’ve read in a long time. The world building is incredible. The characters are even better. Read this book. It’s amazing.!!!!
March 15, 2024
I'm listening to this on audiobook for the THIRD time and, OMG, please release book #4! I need to know what happens next with this amazing ensemble cast of characters.
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