Fantasy Hardships

The third book of the Demon Cycle.

Just like in the last book, we are given a new point of view (Inerva) and given the play by play on her early life. This time it works out much better, however. We don't really know much about her to begin with from the first two books and Brett seems to have learned from his earlier experience as this opening is far more concise and interesting.

What didn't improve is the overall plot, however. It has now solidly moved into predictable territory and I can guess what's going to happen from here. Which is a shame because the tribulations of the people in the book just aren't interesting enough to hold my attention. It made the final critical event that closes the book feel cheap, which is a shame.

Just like in the previous book, the combat against the demons is just filler. I don't know why, but there simply isn't any dread left and the scenes involving the fights are just slogs you might as well skim through. The protagonists in this novel win far too often and suffer losses that in the grand scheme of things are insignificant.

Final verdict:

Me personally, I am done with this series. For those who enjoyed the first two books, you can read this one, because the tone remains the same.