I want to start off with what I always do when it comes to Miles Cameron’s writing, the characters. Cameron is simply put, one of the best authors out there writing compelling characters and thorough character development. There is just not many out there that can make me care about each and every named character like Miles Cameron does. The sense of family, found family, and bonds of friendship are real and profound throughout the Masters and Mages series, but especially in Bright steel. I will say that there was one friendship that felt a little forced and unnecessary, but other than that each and every relationship is beautiful with a natural feeling to it.

Another thing that stands out in Bright steel is the battle scenes, especially the climactic one. Miles Cameron knows how to write an epic ending and this book does not falter in that whatsoever. No character is safe and that heightens each and every battle’s intensity and stakes. That leads me to talk about the plot. I felt that both the first two entries, Cold Iron, Dark Forge had a somewhat slow pace leading up to climactic endings. However, Bright Steel has a fast pace throughout the narrative. We get right into the action and it doesn’t really ever let up.

All in all, Bright Steel was a great ending to the Masters and Mages trilogy.. If you like elements of classic fantasy, tied in with deep bonds of friendship and love, and quite a few epic battle scenes, this trilogy is for you.