This series rocks! Thomas Piety's history is both brutal and fascinating to follow. I can't believe there's only one book left. I confess, and there's no shame in it, that I dread what McLean has in store for his characters. After THIS ending, only mayhem can ensue.

Thomas's distinct voice immersed me in the story. Priest, he may be, among other things, but he doesn't pray often. Why would he? Lady of Eternal Sorrows doesn't answer prayers, after all. His backstory is rooted in violence and trauma. He suffers from PTSD and McLean catches such moments with great skill.

Thomas enjoys respect, power, and authority and in this installment, he gets more of those than he can stomach. After Queen's sudden death his superior, Dieter Vogel, summons him back to the capital. The events that ensue force Thomas to reconsider if he's on the right side and if he's willing to pay the price of immense power.

"Queen's Men were fucking gangsters and there was no other way to look at it, once you saw the truth of the thing. Our country was basically run by gangsters."

Thomas may not be an educated man but he's not a fool, either. His instinct and wit allow him to navigate complex politics, and challenging emotions he would rather not experience. His voice remains rough and brutally honest. Thomas knows he's not right in the head and doesn't make a secret of it. He knows who he cares for, though, and the moments he spends with his friends and adopted son add some lightness to the otherwise dark story.

The story ends on a strong note, not exactly a cliffhanger, rather at a point where a lot is in balance. So, I need the fourth book asap but I'm also afraid of what happens next.