Wow, THAT is how you end a series. While Wake the Gods felt a lot less like historical fiction than the previous two books, I was SO invested in the characters that I kind of loved the mythological turn. And that ending! I was SO stressed out reading that I had to take some (short) breaks, but I was so happy with where things ultimately ended up (especially after reading the SUPER spicy bonus chapter).
In this one, Adrienne finally starts to believe that she might be more than just a normal girl stuck in the past. We find out more about each of the guys' powers as well - I loved trying to figure this out as I went and parallel them to the aspects of Greek mythology I already know. The story begins with Adrienne and the guys trying to thwart a plot begun by Minas Crete, but it ends up being much more epic when they have to stop a dangerous god from ending Minoan civilization. It's intense and chaotic, but I loved every minute.
I'm SO into all the guys. I loved Jadi first - he's so conscientious and empathetic. I liked Kit even more in this one as some horrible things happen to him, and he learns some difficult truths about himself. His sacrifice at the end made me ugly cry. I was initially unconvinced that I would be into Asterion - he's so gruff, and he was NOT nice to Adrienne at the beginning. However, he's completely loyal and caring under his stoic exterior - and he's the dirty talker, so... I couldn't get enough of adorable Nerites. I LOVE a golden retriever MMC, and he's literally described as a golden retriever puppy - it's true. He was initially kind of annoying (though, in a very funny way), but he ends up being so endearingly devoted to Adrienne AND the other guys.
Adrienne's character growth throughout this series is impressive. As I said in my review of the first book, I'm surprised that I ended up liking her so much, as she's the typical fantasy teenage chosen one-type. Despite that profile, she has realistic flaws (her fainting regularly at the sight of blood is hilarious), makes a number of mistakes, and truly learns from them. She doesn't overthink things, but she also isn't overly impulsive. It's refreshing.
I was SO excited to read that Elisha will be writing more in this world - I cannot wait for Brita's story! And OMG a prequel about Jadi and Asterion? Basically, I'll be reading literally anything she writes at this point. READ THESE BOOKS.