Rhist - Michael J. Sullivan
In true Michael J. Sullivan fashion, the characters in this series are wonderful. Multi dimensional and perfectly imperfect. I haven't read a lot of background or talk about this series to understand the full timeline and scope of the story, but it appears that these three books are really one arc building the rise up of the humans to a full fledged war for survival.

I struggled through this story because it was evident that this was not going to be light-hearted and carefree ride. The characters were beaten and broken to begin with and it became evident half way through the third installment that the theme of the narrative was sacrifice, loss and the value of love.

In short, this book has its fill of sadness.

Sullivan is easily one of my favorite authors of all time. And I'm a prolific reader, so I think that's saying something. If you ask me "Well, if it's that sad, is it too depressing...Is it worth the read?" I have to answer that question with a solid yes. I'm seeing this arc as the beginning to his early history before Riyria. I'm dying to know how the races developed and what happened before the time of Royce and Hadrian.

The only reason I gave this book 4 stars instead of 5 is that I feel there is one missing chapter. Even a half chapter following the battle. We end with Persephone's sadness and anger at Raithe. I think we should have had a glimpse of the survivors beyond a couple sentences at the funeral.

I understand there is a follow up book and maybe I'm being unfair, but I feel like there was a little more to be said and if the next book jumps in time, I feel like we deserve a bit more about them interacting and reacting to the battle.

But, that said, I'll put my faith in the author and his lovely editor and leave the story telling in their hands. Can't wait for the next installment.