Ruin and Rising by Leigh Bardugo
Hi, I’m Advik and I’m a sophomore in high school. I love to read, watch TV, write, hang out with friends, and be outside.
Ruin and Rising is the third and final book in Leigh Bardugo’s ‘Shadow and Bone’ trilogy. This book is an absolutely thrilling but emotional conclusion to the trilogy. It ties everything together that has happened throughout the book, including character development, rich worldbuilding, character relationships, and overall events that keep you hooked to the last page. This book was full of exciting twists and turns that added to the excitement level.
This book continues to follow Alina Starkov, the first Sun Summoner of Ravka. She is now hiding underground with suspicious allies after an absolutely devastating defeat, resulting in her being cut off from her power. The only way Alina can rise back up against the Darkling is by finding the third and final amplifier. Finding the third amplifier puts Alina through impossible choices about love, sacrifice, and what she can fully and truly give to protect and save Ravka. Throughout this book, loyalties are tested, sacrifices are made, and not everyone makes it through to the end. Alina discovers her true powers and identity, and the cost of becoming someone greater than herself.
I think this book was a semi-satisfying conclusion to the trilogy. It kept a good pace, had a good amount of action, and was heartfelt and emotional. The ending was something nobody would ever expect, but in the end it felt meaningful. I would suggest this book for teens fifteen and up and someone who enjoys rich fantasy.
