A review by baknata
The Golden Enclaves by Naomi Novik

adventurous emotional inspiring medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Character
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

4.0

What a beautiful conclusion to a wonderful story. This was one of those books that really tied the series together and gave all of the characters we'd come to love a full and satisfying conclusion to their stories. My only problem was that I felt like the story had a bit of a slow start and the conclusion then felt a bit rushed. This is understandable given where it picked up after the last book and everything that had to get done before the end. Additionally, it made sense with where El was emotionally at the beginning, it was just a bit tedious to read. Other than that, I think the book did a great job taking on the scope of the world outside the Scholomance and the reality that problems can't be solved in one easy move, it takes a lot of people and a lot of effort, and even then doesn't last. I also enjoyed how we had clear villains, but they had a defendable position. To a certain extent, they want the same thing as our protagonists, they just aren't opposed to using whatever means necessary. I think it mirrors the real world in a very important way. It isn't just about getting what you want, even if that ultimately helps people. The means by which you achieve that matter just as much. The ending had me so emotional, and overall I loved this book and this trilogy.