Bright We Burn
Haunted by the sacrifices he made in Constantinople, Radu is called back to the new capital. Mehmed is building an empire, becoming the sultan his people need. But Mehmed has a secret: as emperor, he is more powerful than ever . . . and desperately lonely. Does this mean Radu can finally have more with Mehmed . . . and would he even want it?
Lada's rule of absolute justice has created a Wallachia free of crime. But Lada won't rest until everyone knows that her country's borders are inviolable. Determined to send a message of defiance, she has the bodies of Mehmed's peace envoy delivered to him, leaving Radu and Mehmed with no choice. If Lada is allowed to continue, only death will prosper. They must go to war against the girl prince.
But Mehmed knows that he loves her. He understands her. She must lose to him so he can keep her safe. Radu alone fears that they are underestimating his sister's indomitable will. Only by destroying everything that came before--including her relationships--can Lada truly build the country she wants.
Claim the throne. Demand the crown. Rule the world.
Genre: Historical Fiction / YA Fantasy
Author: Kiersten White
Paperback, 416 pages
Published: July 10th, 2018
Publishing House: Delacorte
My Review
The conclusion of The Conqueror’s Saga delivers an unexpected ending after the last final blow in the power struggle between Lada and Radu Dracul.
There has been peace in Wallachia under Lada’s rule as Prince. Crime is minimal and deserving citizens are given land if they have been supportive of her cause. With the old rulers gone, most of Wallachia is content with the way things are. But the enemy lies outside in the neighboring countries.
Lada will do anything to defend her people and her land. With all her resources she is prepared to fight till the end to protect her people and her position.
Radu has found peace as well and a new love interest that complements him perfectly. But he isn’t unaware of the tensions going on around Wallachia.
After a provocation by Lada, Radu confronts her with the most painful blow to her personally and Lada has to count her losses.
but this is not the end
The novel commences to an unexpected ending that I absolutely adored. The development in growth in both of the main characters was really nicely reflected in this last book in the trilogy. Unlike in the other volumes, Lada and Radu take on more mature roles and it isn’t all about bloodshed and revenge anymore. Some, yes, but there is a bigger picture and a greater message that shines through.
I cannot really say more, although I want to, but any hints would spoil this precious ending and new developments. All I can say is, that I am happy and sad at the same time.
This series is outstanding. It was so good to be back with Lada and Radu. I feel like I have known them since they were little, and have lived through their struggles. I am still thinking of book one, which introduced their world to me with the lush gardens...from their childhood plays and games in Wallachia to them being sent off and their struggles in the Ottoman Empire, to them growing up into their own. It sill is my favorite part.
Sadly, this is the end… My only regret, I will never be able to read the trilogy for the first time.
How did you like the ending?
