I have been a huge fan of Ashley Shuttleworth and The Hollow Star Saga since the first book was released back in 2021, and this finale to the quartet was one of my most anticipated reads of 2024. A Wild and Ruined Song felt like an apt conclusion to the saga, and I really enjoyed it!

One of the things I most enjoyed about this read was the variety of character POVs we got; there are so many vibrant and interesting characters in this series, so it was great to be able to live in their perspectives. Shuttleworth's world continued to feel lived-in and grounded, and in many ways like a love letter to Toronto. This final instalment was fast-paced and had me holding my breath in several moments, truly unsure about the fate of the characters. There were also moments where I laughed out loud; I really appreciated this balance, as some of the subject matter is a little bit heavy. I also loved the different layers of queer representation!

Shuttleworth also really works to pay homage to the stories that they love, through these characters. The love for these other things is felt, without becoming contrived. The combat scenes read just like a videogame boss fight, or a confrontation in a Dungeons and Dragons, which is another way Shuttleworth makes the story feel grounded. Fans of gamers (both video and TTRPG) will feel seen reading this book, for sure. Overall, a satisfying end to an amazing series. I really do hope for a follow up novella, someday! Can't wait to see what Ashley Shuttleworth gets up to next.

I would recommend this for fans of Cassandra Clare's Mortal Instruments, Fullmetal Alchemist, and Holly Black's Folk of the Air, as well as readers looking for fantasy written by Canadian authors. Great for highschool students (and adults!) looking for urban fantasy with diverse representation.

A Wild and Ruined Song delivers an epic and emotional finale to the Hollow Star Saga. With stunning world-building and complex characters, Ashley Shuttleworth expertly weaves a tale of love, sacrifice, and rebellion. The story follows Arlo and her friends as they face impossible odds to stop a devastating foe, blending thrilling action with heartfelt exploration of identity and unity.

While some subplots feel slightly underdeveloped and the pacing dips in the middle, the explosive ending and vivid writing make up for it. Even if LGBTQIA+ themes aren't your forte, the artistry in the narrative and its universal themes are worth experiencing.

A fitting end to a captivating series!