"The Girl of Fire and Thorns" trilogy comes to a close in a novel that begins with Elisa, ruler of Joy D'Arena, and her companions rescuing Hector, leader of her guard, and journeying into the dangerous kingdom of Invierne. Elisa makes a chilling revelation when she discovers the secret behind why the animagi of that kingdom are so desperate for her presence there, and learns more about the Invierne spy Storm who has declared himself loyal to her. Exiting Invierne proves more treacherous than the journey there, and it's also a race against time: She's learned the animagi of Invierne are intent on attacking Joyan allies, while her own kingdom is facing a civil war. Through it all, Elisa's romance with Hector continues to develop and, more important, her knowledge and confidence continue to grow. She learns more about the Godstone she bears, more about her responsibilities as ruler, and emerges as a leader who realizes the strength she must rely upon is not god-given but within her. Rae Carson's novel full of action and political intrigue raises questions about the abuse of power and distortion of religion, but also includes wonderful moments of self-discovery for its strong female protagonist. (Age 13 and older)