Ruin and Rising

"Ruin and Rising" is the third and final book in the "Grisha Trilogy" by Leigh Bardugo. The story picks up where "Siege and Storm" left off, with the Darkling having gained control of Ravka and Alina Starkov, the Sun Summoner, and her friends in hiding underground.

Alina is weakened and barely holding on to her power after the events of the previous book, but she remains determined to defeat the Darkling and save Ravka. With the help of her friends, including the tracker Mal and the Grisha known as the Conductor, Alina sets out to find the last amplifier, the mythical firebird, that could give her the power to defeat the Darkling once and for all.

As they journey across Ravka, Alina is haunted by her connection to the Darkling and the realization that their powers are more entwined than she had thought. Along the way, they face dangerous challenges, including a confrontation with a group of powerful witches known as the Hringkälla and the discovery of a shocking secret about the Darkling's past.

As the final battle between Alina and the Darkling approaches, Alina must confront not only her own doubts and fears but also the sacrifices that she and her friends will have to make in order to save Ravka. Bardugo's masterful storytelling weaves together elements of magic, romance, and political intrigue to create a thrilling and satisfying conclusion to the Grisha Trilogy.

In "Ruin and Rising," Bardugo also explores themes of power, identity, and the choices that individuals make in the face of adversity. The characters are complex and multi-dimensional, with their own desires, fears, and motivations that drive the story forward.

Overall, "Ruin and Rising" is a compelling and satisfying conclusion to the Grisha Trilogy that will leave readers on the edge of their seats until the very end.