A Journey Back to Elphame: My Thoughts on The Last Wish of Bristol Keats
Oh, where do I begin with The Last Wish of Bristol Keats? If you know me at all, you’ll know I’ve been counting down the days until its release. The first book, The Courting of Bristol Keats, stole my heart, and with Rachel Pearson at the helm again, I knew I was in for a treat. There’s something so captivating about a tale steeped in fantasy, rich character arcs, and a well-crafted romance that draws readers deep into its world. This book lives up to the anticipation, even if it left me wishing for just a bit more in its final moments.
Diving right back into Elphame felt like reuniting with old friends. Bristol and Tyghan’s journey continues from where we left off, and I was grateful that the story builds directly on its predecessor. However, I must emphasize: this is not a stand-alone read. For those eager to jump into this enchanting narrative, I highly recommend revisiting the first installment. As someone who wished I could flip back through those pages before starting this sequel, it became evident that the journey wouldn’t have been the same without that context.
One of my favorite aspects of this book is its multiple points of view. Pearson’s choice to narrate the story through various characters adds such depth, allowing us to experience the intricate layers of both the plot and the characters’ motivations. It almost felt like witnessing a well-rehearsed dance—each character contributing their unique steps to the unfolding narrative. Hearing from each character not only made me more invested in the story but also gave me insight into the political intrigue and emotional turmoil: themes that Pearson weaves beautifully.
Ah, the romance! Bristol and Tyghan’s chemistry is palpable, and although there are moments of conflict, it’s comforting to see them navigate their feelings with such passion. Their love scenes? Absolute perfection—steamy yet sweet, displaying that delightful mix of infatuation and depth. It’s clear Pearson knows how to balance romance with the larger stakes in Elphame. I found myself rooting for them, cringing during their fights, and sighing with relief when they came back together.
However, I can’t ignore the lingering shadows that clouded my reading experience. There were narrative threads that felt unresolved, particularly the betrayal that left me wanting more depth. I found myself yearning for a greater exploration of that character’s motivations and choices. And while the time jumps throughout the narrative were intriguing, I noticed some inconsistencies that made the pacing dizzying rather than seamless. Plus, the wrap-up ended just a bit too neatly for my taste—given the turmoil each character faced, it felt a little rushed.
Despite these minor stumbles, The Last Wish of Bristol Keats enchanted me from start to finish. The world-building continues to be spectacular, fully immersing readers in a realm of magic and emotional stakes. Pearson’s talent for crafting lovable side characters and intricate plots shines through, keeping me hooked until the last word.
If you enjoy fantasy filled with romance, betrayal, and political intrigue, this duology is a must-read. While the conclusion left me with a few unanswered questions, it also opened my heart to the possibilities of storytelling. I can’t help but keep an eye out for Pearson’s next adventure. After this journey, I know I’ll be ready to dive back into whatever magical world she crafts next. If you’re seeking an engaging, multi-POV tale that mixes angst with love—and who doesn’t want that?—then pick up this series. You won’t be disappointed.
Rating: 4.5 stars rounded to 5.
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