Review of Queen of Shadows and Ruin (The Nightfire Quartet, #4)
When I first picked up Queen of Shadows and Ruin by Nisha J. Tuli, I couldn’t shake the feeling that I was about to embark on an emotional rollercoaster—one that might leave me in tears by the end. Having followed the journey of Rabin, Zarya, and their companions through the previous three installments, anticipation was palpable in my veins. And believe me, it didn’t disappoint! Who cried their way through the ending? Yup, that would be me!
Tuli’s writing continues to shine, beautifully weaving themes of love, sacrifice, and justice throughout the narrative. Set against a backdrop of epic battles and compelling character arcs, this final book wraps up the complex journeys of its protagonists in a way that feels both satisfying and heartfelt. Fans of the series will find themselves picking up threads of loyalty and friendship that have been meticulously crafted over the prior books, culminating in poignant moments that tug at the heartstrings.
I particularly appreciated the pacing of the story. While some may find the slower first third of the book a bit languid, I was on the edge of my seat, eagerly waiting for the masked intentions of a certain character to reveal themselves. "There’s never been anyone like her before. Nor will there be again." This line couldn’t have been more fitting for the character in question. The tension built beautifully, and once we delved deeper, the pages practically turned themselves.
Rabin and Zarya remain my favorite couple, embodying what it means to make sacrifices for each other, and watching their relationship evolve brought me so much joy. Rabin’s unyielding determination to right every wrong, even when all seemed perfect, was a delightful recurring motif. They truly have become one of my favorite literary couples. And can we take a moment to gush about Yasen? He’s still the charismatic charm of the series for me—funny, complex, and utterly relatable. His growing bond with Miraan added an additional layer of intrigue and warmth that I just adored. If a spinoff focusing on them materializes, I’d be first in line!
Row, too, finally got his moment to shine, reclaiming his deserved place in the narrative. His emotional connection with Zarya was nothing short of devastatingly beautiful. One pivotal line, where he refers to her as his daughter, completely shattered and then pieced my heart back together. The battle scenes, as expected, were grand and immersive, showcasing Tuli’s knack for vivid storytelling.
While I loved the book overall, I did sense a slight rush towards the conclusion that felt different from the previous installments. Nevertheless, the journey was still deeply satisfying and engaging. It’s clear that this series holds a dear spot in my heart, and I wouldn’t mind spending more time in this world, or returning for a similar adventure!
In conclusion, Queen of Shadows and Ruin is a beautiful farewell to the Nightfire Quartet—a tale of love, heroism, and the bonds that tie us together. If you’re someone who cherishes character-driven stories with rich emotional arcs, this book (and series) is an absolute must-read! And as I close the book on this journey, I can’t help but feel a little bittersweet. I already miss Rabin, Zarya, and the crew, but I am immensely grateful for the paths we’ve walked together.
4.5 stars from me, and a hearty thank you to the publishers and NetGalley for this gem. Now, who’s joining me in begging for a spinoff or novella?
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