Where to even begin. This book tore my heart to shreds. Kumal’s death. Bogdan’s death. Nicolas’s death. Lada’s death?! LADA’S DEATH?!. (What the heck?!) Lada’s actual assassination attempt on Mehmed. However, there were so many incredible moments. I liked learning about Lada’s unique military tactics and seeing Cyprian and Radu’s relationship unfold, alongside the growth of their shared family with Nazira and Fatima. I am thankful that Radu decided to follow in his own footsteps rather than doing what Mehmed or Lada would’ve done in his shoes. When he finally stood on Lada’s side my heart melted. Radu’s passion for mercy, just agh!! My favorite part was seeing Lada and Radu rule Wallachia together (even though it was short lived). Radu. My goodness. The best character in this series. He always had the best of intentions even when his courage lacked. But all of the characters. So well developed and flawed! And Theodora, Mehmed and Lada’s child?! Omg. Being raised with such love by Radu’s hand-picked family. Agh!! Such a great book!! This has to be the best trilogy I have ever read. I am writing this after just finishing, so my thoughts are very much disorganized. But wow. If I could give this more than 5 stars I would. It was an interesting take on Vlad the Impaler’s history. I am interested in learning more about the Ottoman Empire and Christian crusades. After reading a series as good as this, it’s always hard to imagine reading something that can even come close to comparing. I hate book hangovers.

I loved Radu and Mehmed’s reunion but considering the circumstances it made me really sad