40 pages • 1 hour read
Ruin and Rising
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Book Brief
224
Novel • Fiction
Ravka • Medieval Fantasy World
2014
YA
14-18 years
HL720L
Super Short Summary
In Ruin and Rising, Alina Starkov joins her allies to defeat her nemesis, the Darkling, and reclaim Ravka's throne. She traverses underground cities, reconnects with old friends, and searches for a powerful amplifier to enhance her abilities. As the climactic battle looms, she must confront tough choices and sacrifices. Themes include loyalty, power, love, and inequality. The book contains depictions of abuse.
Suspenseful
Dark
Emotional
Adventurous
Inspirational
Reviews & Readership
576,651 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Leigh Bardugo’s Ruin and Rising delivers a thrilling conclusion to the Grisha Trilogy with compelling character development and intense action. Readers praise its emotional depth and satisfying resolution. However, some critics note pacing issues and predictable plot twists. This epic finale balances sorrow and hope, making it a bittersweet yet fitting closure.
Who Should Read Ruin and Rising?
A reader who would enjoy Ruin and Rising by Leigh Bardugo likely gravitates towards young adult fantasy novels with strong, complex female protagonists, intricate world-building, and themes of power and sacrifice. Comparable titles include Throne of Glass by Sarah J. Maas and Red Queen by Victoria Aveyard.
576,651 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
The Darkling
The Darkling
A powerful Grisha and the story’s antagonist, capable of summoning darkness and shadows. He created the Fold and harbors complex feelings towards Alina.
Mal
Mal
Alina’s childhood friend and a skilled tracker in the Ravkan army. He is known for his practical nature and deep bond with Alina.
Baghra
Baghra
The Darkling’s mother and a mentor to Alina and other Grisha trainees. She is known for her blunt demeanor and serves as a significant guiding figure in the story.
224
Novel • Fiction
Ravka • Medieval Fantasy World
2014
YA
14-18 years
HL720L
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