Faerie Lord (Faerie Wars Chronicles Series #4) Book

Another reviewer wrote that the final book in the Faerie Wars series takes on an entirely different tone, look, and feel than its predecessors. I couldn't agree more - and I absolutely adored it for those reasons!
- This final story seemed more in line with the "hero's journey" motif that saps like me find so thrilling! The direction completely changes, and along with it, a sense of what is truly important. Older, previously dominant characters are put on the backburner, carried-over conflicts are tucked away, and therefore Henry, my sweet, sweet Henry, is given the chance to shine! As I was reading, I kept hearing that Mulan song "I'll Make a Man out of You" in my brain, and I thought that was pretty appropriate!
- Just like the previous books, though, there is no shortage of action (especially following Ruler of the Realm; my mind is still boggled from that experience!) but like I said before, the rite-of-passage theme gives some needed maturity to this enjoyable series. The first three books were action-packed, clever and imaginative, and wickedly funny; now, thanks to the fourth and final installment, the series finally gets heart, and with that, a true purpose.

Now, much as I like Herbie Brennan and Faerie Lord I do feel the urge to wag my finger in his direction, because there were some noticeable plot holes (they dont jeopardize the main story, but they're annoying nonetheless) and some contradictions in character descriptions. Also, I still feel the same way I did at the end of Ruler of the Realm: an ingenious plot device that is a little too easily solved. The epic "battle" (and it's not really a battle so much as a test) is over in practically the blink of an eye, and you're left feeling that the efforts of the characters are somehow futile because of it. Also, I still feel a bit confused at how certain events ended up coming together...

So why did I give this final book 5 stars instead of 4? Even if the story may not have been executed in the most effective (or coherent) way possible, the look-and-feel of the story captured my attention and my emotions. And I got my happy ending. Seriously: JUST the way I like it. See, YA authors? It *CAN* be done! If a dude author can give closure, you should, too (CASSIE CLARE! HOLLY BLACK!)


And now another series is over and I'm sad again. You just can't beat series books! Whatever will I read next?!?!