This was a perfect ending for the trilogy.

The character arc is thoroughly developed and the dynamic between them all is the ideal found family trope. The wit and banter is perfectly placed and never makes the story line feel overshadowed. Same goes for the romance line, it is perfectly placed and feels natural and balanced with the plot.

Stacey does not shy away from visceral emotions, forces us to the most realistic HEA, and creates a beautiful story through it all. I'll read everything she writes and maybe even beg her to write my eulogy one day. 😇

This was an excellent finale to The Glacian Trilogy and I was left satisfied with how it all wrapped up. If you think you know what’s going to happen in this book, think again!

We start where we left off in Chasm and I will admit the first third of the book is quite slow paced, however as I progressed through the story it all became clear as to why it was done that way and I’m not complaining about the pace at all. For a final book we actually get most of our missing backstory and find out how characters came to meet each other, their back stories, what happened in the past to get to this point and more meaning behind all the magic and politics.

The pacing of the second half of the book was better and I found myself needing to read as much as possible, it was a regular “one more chapter” moment when I didn’t want to put it down and wait to find out more. We have additional POVs in Valley and lots of flashbacks but it all fit in together perfectly, keeping my reading experience interesting, and we definitely went on a journey with lots of twists and turns. And the epilogue? Not what I expected, I loved it and it made me emotional in all the right ways. It was a surprisingly perfect end I didn’t think I’d read.

The found family is truly what made this series for me, I love Dawsyn being a strong, feisty, fighty woman who doesn’t see herself as a leader and just wants justice. Ryon is a heart of gold protector yet also a Rottweiler. Ezra and Salem need their own side novella just for the banter. The addition of Rivdan, Tasheem and Hectar didn’t add masses but still gave further personality variety though they’re certainly more minor characters.

Overall I have this book 4.5⭐️ and it’s a series I would recommend to romantasy readers who prefer the romance to be more subplot than a main focus.

Valley is the final instalment in the Glacian Trilogy and I have been so excited to see how Dawsyn, Ryon and the rest of the crew have fared, especially after the ending of Chasm!

The nature of the characters in Valley was really interesting to read, particularly seeing the citizens of the ledge adapt from a harsh environment where only the strong and emotionally detached can thrive. It was interesting watching Dawsyn evolve as a leader, where she has traditionally been motivated by her own individual survival. While she has grown as a character and exhibits leadership qualities, I actually found it comforting that she maintained some of her more violent tendencies and that her character wasn’t softened in that regard.

As always, the writing is textbook perfect. It’s packed full of descriptive language to the point where the cold leaps off the page. I particularly liked that there were subtle flashbacks that felt almost like a movie in the way they seamlessly flowed into the story and moved it along. The changes in protagonist were infrequent, but I liked it, it seemed like it happened for necessary plot points and not just for the sake of skipping. It was nice to see the plot and characters tied together as the story progressed, tying all three books together nicely.

I found the eerie nature of traversing the Chasm well written, but I felt like there was a lot of travelling in the first half. Travelling as a plot point often frustrates me (and it was my biggest frustration with the second book in the trilogy, Chasm) and I feel like it drags, so I was eager to see some kind of resolution and advancements in the plot. Once this happened, I felt like I was flying through the rest of the story.

Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher Angry Robot for giving me access to this book in exchange for an honest review, these thoughts are all my own.

Going to start off by saying "Valley" closes the Glacian Trilogy by Stacey McEwan well. It comes out September 10th, no more excuses if you were waiting.

This series is one of the first books I read for Angry Robot. Glad I did, justified angry lady with an axe is very much my speed.

OK, we aren't in the best spot at the beginning. You have a group of malnourished, angry,, untrusting folks pulled from everything they have known at the bottom of the place they have been terrified of for most of their existence. With limited food, the mage who knew things is gone, and now folks are hearing voices. Oh and the Glacians have snitched and the Queen knows that the Ledge-Folk are loose, which would disrupt her hold on the people. Better get a move on to what's at the end of the Chasm because it all ends here.

Reasons to read:
-This is the finale, I told you it's good, put your eyes on it
-Comeuppance
-Honestly didn't expect it to go in that direction
-Ooooo that makes a few things make more sense
-You have to find out if your favorites live or not
-Proper winter survival tips

Cons:
-Of course the one I really enjoyed dies

Flawed but uncomplicated trilogy ending

The model for all high fantasy is obviously professor Tolkien's The Lord of the Rings, but what was necessary then, to publish in three volumes thanks to his glacial and revisionist writing style or the rationing of paper, shouldn't mean that every fantasy quest needs to be broken into three. in fact, there seem to be more and more 'duologies' being published lately, which makes sense if you are using the Hero's Journey as a model: the first book ends on a low so that the second and final book can end on a high. For a trilogy, the middle one needs to end on a low, but so does the first one, or you don't have a second book; or you do what Tolkien did and end on a new start, with the titular Fellowship riven, with death at their heels.

In the third and final part of the Glacian Trilogy, Dawsyn and Ryon (why? Terrible names) are leading the remains of the Ledge-dwellers through the Chasm to look for the promised valley. I write these words having not read the first two books as this part of the book is clear. What isn't at all clear are the one note scenes with the two Queens and then a major section that focuses on one of the main supporting cast but with all revelations laid bare, which could have resonated more strongly with the theme of parents and children that threads throughout.

Structurally, this book is a mess, less a novel than a series of things thrown at walls to see what sticks. Major enemies and plotters are dispatched off-page or offhandedly, offering no scene or act turns. The complexity of Dawsyn and her family history is the only interesting note, which makes the lack of development of other characters and acting uncharacteristically harder to ignore. And there are plenty of missed opportunities to develop Dawsyn, even in a third and final book, so the sudden ending is like being thrown off a cliff face as some characters are, with an epilogue in a (welcome) wry and knowing style that has no relationship to anything previously.

A flawed three stars.

Firstly, a huge thank you to Stacey, NetGalley, and Angry Robot for the ARC! I’ve thoroughly enjoyed this series, and I was beyond excited to receive an early copy of the final installment.
The richly imagined world and unforgettable characters have captivated me from the very beginning. Stacey’s immersive writing style pulls you right back into the action, making you feel as though you're slogging through every challenge alongside the characters and looking around every corner for the next twist. You'll sigh at the relentless marching, shake your head at their decisions, gasp at the betrayals and reveals, and... well, you’ll just have to read to find out the rest! 😉
It’s been an incredible journey—walking, flying, and folding through the ledge, chasm, and valley with characters who, despite everything, hold onto their savage determination, their found family, and the hope of building a better world.
I highly recommend this series to anyone searching for a unique fantasy world, compelling, battle-worn characters, a splash of romance, a pinch of spice, and a heavy dose of action.

3.7⭐️

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for this eARC in exchange for an honest review.

I really enjoyed the first two books in this series, although Ledge remains my favourite. Valley was a satisfying conclusion to the trilogy, although the pacing was a bit off as things moved a bit too slowly at the beginning. There were also some additional POVs I wasn’t expecting, which were interesting in terms of back story, but which sometimes took me out of the story a bit when I lost track of who was narrating.

There were some unexpected twists, but I did like the ending and the epilogue was very fitting for Dawsyn’s character (although overall the ending felt slightly rushed given how slow the start was).

Overall, a good ending to the trilogy, and I’m sad that this is the last we’ll see of Ryon and Dawsyn, and their friends.

I loved Ledge and enjoyed Chasm, so was thrilled to be able to finish off the Glacien Trilogy with Valley.

I would say that I am happy with how it ended, although it was done rather easily. I was hoping to see that tension and breathless anticipation from the first book, but it didn't quite manifest as strongly as I had hoped. The suspense of what Dawsyn would face at the bottom of the Chasm sort of petered out.

There is a big twist that was interesting, but it could have delved deeper into the character motivations and the after-effects more.

Overall, this was a fine and okay conclusion to the series, but not necessarily outstanding.

Thank you to netgalley and angry robot for the arc.

I was so excited for the conclusion to this story. However I am left feeling a bit disappointed.
The start was so incredibly slow, and not in a good way. We have extra POVs in this and we also get flashback chapters of a side character - it felt like she didn't know whose story she wanted to tell. I feel like the flashback chapters would have been a great novella instead.
We also found out something in the flashback chapters before the main characters found out so when the main characters found this pretty big thing out, I feel like it just didn't have the same impact.

I liked the conclusion to the story and how everything ended and wrapped up. But I didn't particularly enjoy how we got there. The last 30% was the best part and felt more like the other two books.

Valley by Stacey McEwan is a stunning conclusion to the Glacian Trilogy.
From the very first chapter, it captivates the rich world-building and deep character development.
So many characters, Ezra being a favourite.
Ezra's humor and the dynamics among the characters keep the pages turning. The plot twists and turns, making the journey emotional and immersive.

As the story reaches its end, Stacey delivers an ending that is both heart-wrenching and satisfying, leaving you in tears yet grateful for such a perfect conclusion. An incredible and unforgettable end to a beloved trilogy!
Highly recommend

Thank you to both Stacey and Angry Robot for allowing me an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

“𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐜𝐨𝐥𝐝 𝐢𝐬 𝐚𝐥𝐢𝐯𝐞 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐰𝐞𝐥𝐥. 𝐈𝐭 𝐭𝐚𝐤𝐞𝐬 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐫𝐬 𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐲𝐰𝐡𝐞𝐫𝐞 𝐢𝐭 𝐠𝐨𝐞𝐬.”

I am beyond excited and honored to have had the privilege to receive an ARC of Valley. I have been OBSESSED with this series since reading the first two books early this year. Valley is one of my most anticipated book releases this year, and I am so so happy to have been able to read it early.

If you have not yet read Ledge and Chasm, I highly recommend them both. This series is one of the most unique fantasy romance series I’ve read, and I immediately fell in love after picking up the first book. If you love high stakes and crazy plot twists, this series is for you.

Valley was an easy 5 star read for me. This series has some of the most lovable characters, and it was so amazing to continue their journey after being so invested in this story.

I laughed, cried, and stressed while reading this book. The world building and perfectly timed revelations set this book up amazingly. My mind was absolutely blown several times while reading, in the best way. The Glacian Trilogy will always be a favorite of mine, I cannot recommend it enough!

And so, the journey of Dawsyn Sabar comes to an end. This story was a beautiful journey of magic, survival, loss, and love. I kept thinking nothing else could surprise me with the way the story was going, but new twists and turns continued to unfold. This final book in the trilogy gave me a great sense of satisfaction to see how the story ended. It was well written and I loved this final installation of learning these characters.

I cannot recommend this series enough! Please allow yourself to get lost in the world of the Dawsyn Sabar and her band of misfits.

I look forward to the future projects from Stacey McEwan!

The two first books Ledge & Chasm were amazing and Valley the last one to complete the triology did not disappoint! The book began a bit slow but the plot and story picked up a nice speed after the slower beginning.  I read this book in one sitting because i could not put it down!
I love how much there is to this book and story in general.  The plot is unique and there is fantasy, romance, amazing world building, humor, action and so many twists and turns.

I was a bit sad that we didnt feel as deep of a connection to the FMC and MMC as i got in books 1 and 2. And as much as I loved this book that and the slow beginning are things i would have loved to see changed perhaps.  Due to these two factors i did end up loving book 1 & 2 more than book 3. But i still loved it and would recommend it for sure!

Arc provided by netgalley

I enjoyed how this series was wrapped up. I really enjoyed Stacey’s writing. She knows how to write an ending that keeps you on your toes. Also, the characters (some) are likable throughout the series. Salem was definitely my favorite through all of the books.

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for this digital ARC in exchange for an honest review.

Valley is the third book in The Glacian Trilogy and perhaps one of my most anticipated reads this year! I really enjoyed books one and two and Valley certainly lived up to my expectations.

Just like McEwan’s other books, Valley was a fun mix of action, romance, and fantasy. The characters continue to be so well written. I love Dawsyn and really enjoyed all of the character building and development throughout this series.

I really didn’t want this story to end. McEwan wrapped this story up really well, nothing felt too drawn out or rushed. Valley was a very bittersweet read and I can’t wait to see what McEwan writes next.

I wanted this to give a better ending to the story than the previous two books gave to the beginning and middle, but it just never got there. The story never went anywhere and I just didn’t care about the characters. The epilogue was a saving grace to the story, but it wasn’t enough for me to love the story:

SADLY, A DISAPPOINTING ENDING

I had high hopes for this series. I was fascinated by the first book. The second book fell a bit flat, but I was confident, it would be turned around for the finale. Sadly, I was disappointed.

What I didn't like

👎 Characters: In the first book I really loved the characters, especially the side characters like Esra and Salem. Sadly, all the characters felt quite diminished in this book. They felt bland, flat and lifeless. What I used to love about them just wasn't present anymore.

👎 Writing: Normally I can get past writing that isn't up to par. But with the characters already bothering me, the grammatical errors that crept up again and again got to me.

👎 Plot: The pace of the plot felt slow and all in all it was a bit repetitive. It didn't really feel like it was going anywhere.

👎 Attention: By the end, my attention was not captured anymore. I skimmed the last 25%, but to be honest, if it hadn't been for the great first book and me wanting to know the ending to that story, I would have DNF'ed this.

I was so honored that I got to read the ark of this book! This is the last book in the trilogy. It did not disappoint! This was nonstop, action pack finale of a book and I could not put it down. I stayed up till 4 o’clock in the morning so I could finish this book. This was a fantastic finale, and I look forward to reading more books from this author in the future.

I LOVED how we got multiple POV’s! But I loved the queens POV so much and it was definitely one of my favourite parts of this finale.

The ending I loved but I do wished it didn’t end so quickly. It felt like there was not enough happy moments at the end with all of the characters besides the epilogue which was nice but I would have loved after this trilogy we got to know more about the future and what happened after everything we just went through (I am biased 🤣 I just need to know more about my girl!!)

I also have a review scheduled for my bookstagram in 2 days time aswell (jaydes.bookshelf)

Thank you Stacey McEwan, NetGalley, and Angry Robot for this unputdownable arc!!

holy MOTHER!!! Okay I feel like before I even get into this review, I need to put in the disclaimer that I did not love the first two books (I gave both of them 3 stars). The main reason I picked up these books is because I love Stacey’s personality on instagram and I wanted to support her 😂 so when I say I absolutely loved this finale, I really & truly mean it. Typically, I feel like I never love the last book of a series. It’s so, so difficult to get them right, and this was absolutely done flawlessly! The epilogue??? tears!!

To be more specific, the characters absolutely peaked for me in this book. The fmc and mmc may be two of my favorites I’ve read now. Dawsyn’s journey has been unique, filled with twists and turns, and her personality is so relatable. She also stayed so true to herself until the very end, which I appreciated so much. I loved all of the side characters and I am going to miss them immensely. They each brought their own well written & developed personalities and it made the book feel so cohesive and made me form an attachment to all of them.

I also felt like it wasn’t predictable and had just the right amount of unhinged & unexpected twists to make me want to throw the book but not ✨ actually ✨ launch it.

Overall, I absolutely adored this book and I will be recommending the series to everyone that will listen to me (& anyone who doesn’t want to tbh bc who cares, they need to know!!)