Hero at the Fall (Rebel of the Sands #3)

                Hello happy readers I'm posting to you from my friend's (Bogdana the Booknerd) place as I am spending a couple days with her since I came to town for a book signing event for War Storm (Red Queen #3) by Victoria Aveyard.  More on the event later as I'm typing this before going to make sure it's ready.  That said while I get ready to dive into one series ender it is only fitting that I talk about another series ender I just finished, Hero at the Fall (Rebel of the Sands #3) by Alwyn Hamilton.  I previously reviewed the first books Rebel of the Sands and Traitor to the Throne and this review will have spoilers for the first couple as is the nature.  So let's dive in.

Rating:  5 Stars

                We left off with Amani, the blue eyed bandit, escaping from the Sultan's grasp but it comes with  great cost.  Many of the rebellion are captured including the Rebel Prince they aim to put on the throne, Ahmed.  Amani finds herself taking charge and leading the rebellion as they try to figure a way out of many difficult situations to save Ahmed and their friends and take the throne.  It's a lot to accomplish even for the Demdjii and their remarkable powers.  Her journey will take her to her past she thought she left behind, the mythical city of Eremot and more.  She never set out to be a leader and making hard calls that put those she loves in danger is not what she wants but she is determined to put this rebellion back into the hands of its rightful leader.

                This is the final book and it brings up lots of emotions as with war there is death.  There were times when I was prepared for it and others it just took me by storm and I was left crying at work yet again.  One death in particular got me going then as things continued even as I had an idea what would happen I was all boohooing and couldn't reason it out.   Super vague but if you've you read it you will understand.  I am a character reader and it is impossible to not love and respect Amani who has been through so much and really grown as a person through this incredible journey.  Same goes for Jinn they are there from the start and I just adore their connection as they build better together but strong on their own, never losing sight of their individuality.  Of course the same goes with our other rebels some of my favorites to name a few, Shazad, Sam, Maz, Izz, Delila, and Hala to name a few.  Seriously Shazad is amazing and just as kick butt awesome as Amani.  Sam reminds me of a charming rogue like Captain Jack Sparrow so of course I love him and the twins are always a delight to read as they normally bring some levity. 

"She was all fire and gunpowder, and her finger was always on a trigger."

                The story felt like it flew by as so much was accomplished in such a small time frame but it had been building up and things started to fall into place.  The end was coming.  There is doom and gloom on the horizon for some and they still continue on which I love.  Enemies and Allies.  A fight within and without with the foreigners ready to pounce next there are serious things stacked against our group.  Still no matter how bleak there is still hope and I love that about them.  The mix of magic and strategy really work well.  There is always something happening to make you wonder of the possibilities/repercussions which is always the case when dealing with the Djinni.    

"We would be stories long after we were gone.  Imperfect, inaccurate stories.  Stories that could never even come close to reality." 

                Speaking of we get to know more of the myths and culture that the world is built on.  In both nations.  From a mythical city, old languages, stories from before time remembers fully, and more.  Hamilton found a way to weave in things from book one that fit so perfectly and clicked together I can't wait to re-listen and see if I catch even more.  Overall, this book is a slammed packed series finale.  It covers everything from action, suspense, romance, magic, fantasy, beautiful writing, drama, all the feels, a kick butt female lead and more.  I was not disappointed in the least and I highly recommend this series to anyone who enjoys a good fantasy.

                Until next time…