Nouf *LostinFantasy*'s Reviews > The Last Namsara

Actual rating: 3.5/5 stars

After seeing the mixed reviews, I had no idea what to except - but it I could see this had dragons in it and forbidden romance, and so I just gave it try!

I'm glad I did! I ended up really enjoying the book!

Despite this being a Fantasy story, it was very character driven - which I absolutely loved. Asha is such a complex (and starts as an almost morally grey) heroine, and goes through amazing character development.
She is the king's daughter and dragon slayer, known as "Iskari" - meaning "life taker". Her people are afraid of her and blame her for a dragon (that she once lured with her "stories") burning half the city - and leaving her scarred.
Most interestingly, she sees herself as inherently corrupt and "wicked" - made to be ashamed of her own desires and thoughts. And the entire book, everything that happens, contributes to Asha's character development and growth from that. It's a wonderful slow build.

I really loved all the side characters - including Asha's brother Dax, her cousin Safire (cast aside for having a royal father and a slave "Skral" mother), Roa, Torwin and how they all play into the story! The politics and history dividing these characters in this world are interesting! From royalty to enemies to slaves and rebels.

Of those supporting characters, my favorite was Torwin (the Skral slave of Asha's awful betrothed, the Commandant). He's the most fleshed out of them too. So pure with real strength and determination despite his harsh life.

I also really enjoyed the romance in this one! Not just because of the 'forbidden love' aspect - but the slow burn between Asha and Torwin was so well done. He's not afraid of her like everyone else is, and steadfastly shows her tenderness and understanding she's missing. They don't have the best start (Asha is prejudiced against the Skral at first) or an easy journey, but then things change and you can see how and why they connected. I really loved their moments together!

The plot had an excellent pace and kept me engaged the entire time I read! The world building was very interesting with its twist on dragons - their intelligence and how they communicate through the telling of stories. The dragons actually play a role in the book and aren't just 'there'. Still, I do wish they had an even larger part. The idea of a rider forming a "link" with their dragon was really intriguing, and could have been fun to explore further (maybe in the next book!).

The political part of the story - the division of the realm and the brewing rebellions - also shaped the plot and added suspense very nicely!

* That being said, the only thing I'm not sure how I feel about is the "religion" aspect in the book -- shown both through the "old stories" and the presence of the "Old One" (a higher power) influencing the plot. It feels almost reminiscent of (or inspired by) biblical tales more than shaping a completely original fantastical one. Or rather, it's a blend of both... I don't know if that worked for me.
But at least I like that Asha's motivations are personal and driven by her own character growth and self discovery - not just for a religious cause. I mean, that's fine too, but in Fantasy books I enjoy character based heroism more!

On the other hand, I think it's unique and interesting of this book to portray the idea of religion/faith (even in a fictional world) in a positive light. Most Fantasy books show an opposite side on that. So, I guess that's a cool direction too.

Overall , this was a very enjoyable read and it kept me engaged, caring about the characters, and finding so many memorable moments that stood out!
If you like fierce and complex heroines, excellent and gradual character development, complicated and slow burn romances (that are also very sweet), mythology and legends, and yes, of course dragons - then give this book a try!

I'm excited about the sequel to know what happens next with Asha and Torwin, and also learning more about Dax, Roa and Safire - since I'm pretty sure it's a companion sequel!