Ember Rising by S. D. Smith
MG Fantasy. 448 Pages. 4 Stars
Synopsis:
A harrowing adventure inside enemy territory. Heather and Picket are plunged into the darkness of Morbin’s shadow, fighting to bear the flame of the cause and light the way for rabbitkind’s upright insurrection.
Hope for a Healing
Work for the Mending
Fight for the Rising
My Review:
I kind of blazed past this one and started the fourth one, but I’m going to try to recall what I can of this third book to leave a bit of a review XD The cliff hanger got me, guys! I had to!
I’m enjoying the series. It’s fun to see the characters develop and even branch out on their own, but I also still admire their fierce loyalty to one another. The ties of friends and family run deep in this world, and that nobility warms my heart.
The plot continues to deepen and develop as we mount toward the impending climax. This was the first time we got to see a little more inside the enemy’s camp, which was intriguing in its own way. The power structure and governing gave me some light WWII vibes, chilling for a kid’s story, but so tactfully done.
I’ve been surprised at the depth of emotion this series has stirred and this third book was no exception. I think the combination of the incredible themes of hope, virtue, and suffering have just really struck a chord with me. I’m really looking forward to seeing the conclusion and certainly glad I had so many friends recommend this one!
Another thing I’ve been noticing in this third book is that Smith is really good at leaving us hanging! Not just that ending for the book, but even amidst the chapters themselves. The narrative splits into a few different places and he gives us just enough to want more before switching again. It’s a great storytelling skill I greatly admire and would love to hone myself. As a reader, it was easy to follow the different events and threads without any confusion, but also he’s killing me over here with the cliffies!
No foul language, a subtle thread of potential romance (that I am totally shipping), and some non-graphic fantasy violence. MG suitable for pre-teens.
More:
Book 1 in The Green Ember series is The Green Ember (4 Stars)
Book 2 is Ember Falls (4 Stars)
Book 4 is Ember’s End
I am currently reading through the series, so stay tuned for updates! The series does need to be read in order.
On GraceBought
Check out my thoughts on the previous books in the series!