THE MIRROR OF BEASTS

A found family of teens struggles against an evil force in this duology closer.

After the destruction of the mystical land of Avalon, Tamsin, Neve, Olwen, and Caitriona fight through their grief and guilt in order to continue their battle against Lord Death, who grows stronger in his control over the dead as the winter solstice nears. Caitriona’s internalized grief is particularly well depicted, tying into her character development and her slow-burn queer romance. Tamsin and her friends begin seeking allies in the legendary Bonecutter and the Council of Sistren, and they go on to focus their quest on the Mirror of Beasts, which can defeat Lord Death. The linear storyline is well balanced through the rotating points of view and the inclusion of mystical visions and mythical stories. Cabell’s perspective adds a disturbing dimension to the portrayal of Lord Death’s cabal and offers a refreshing contrast to the viewpoints focusing on romantic themes. Tamsin’s ongoing physical attraction to Emrys may initially seem jarring given the latter’s earlier cutting betrayal, but their growing romance is drawn out enough to feel realistic. The cast members’ relationships are well developed overall, especially the familial bonds among Tamsin, Cabell, and their long-missing father figure, Nash. With numerous plot twists and surprising reveals, this epic story, which features a racially diverse cast, wraps up with a satisfying ending.

An intricate and absorbing character-driven finale.