Light Bringer: Red Rising, Book 6

Light Bringer, the latest triumph in the Red Rising Saga, left me both exhilarated and emotionally spent. Having eagerly awaited this book, it surpassed all my hopes and desires, even if it did mercilessly leave me wanting more. Pierce Brown's masterful storytelling continues to captivate, and I found myself once again willingly drawn into the chaotic action and drama of this universe. With a strong foundation of anticipation built during the years between releases, theories and speculations ran rampant. However, Pierce Brown shattered them all, weaving an intricate narrative that defied expectations. The unpredictable twists and turns kept me on my toes, ensuring that no moment was ever predictable or dull. "Light Bringer" brings the series back to its core, focusing intensely on Darrow. This was a choice many long-time fans yearned for, and it was executed flawlessly. The weight of Darrow's perspective reignited that connection we formed back at the Institute. A reunion with beloved companions felt like coming home after a long journey, and the camaraderie forged in the crucible of war and adversity was palpable. Within its pages, the book explores the depths of humanity's triumphs and vulnerabilities. Lyria's journey, especially her unexpected bond with Volga, tugged at my heartstrings. It didn't steal the spotlight, but it undeniably enriched my experience. Darrow's intricate dynamic with Cassius is also highlight that enriches the emotional fabric of the story. From fierce rivals to unanticipated allies, their journey from bitterness to understanding has been a long and poignant one. Brown takes this relationship to new depths, showcasing the profound impact they have on each other's lives. Their interactions are a symphony of conflicting emotions, each note echoing their shared history and personal growth. However, it's the bond between Darrow and Sevro that remains the beating heart of the series. "Light Bringer" demonstrates their unbreakable connection with unwavering clarity. Sevro's quirkiness and unyielding loyalty provide a balance to Darrow's intensity, creating a partnership that has stood the test of time and war. Their camaraderie is a testament to the power of friendship amidst chaos, and it's a constant source of both humor and heart. This emotional range is truly one of the series' hallmarks, and "Light Bringer" proved no exception. I laughed, cheered, gasped, and yes, even shed a tear or two in the process. Pierce Brown's knack for delivering gut-punching moments remains unrivaled. The final 50 pages struck me with an emotional force that ranks among the most powerful in the series. It's a testament to his skill that these pages hit as hard emotionally as they do with action, and it's what makes this series so exceptional. "Light Bringer" is a testament to Brown's ability to seamlessly blend heart-pounding action with deeply human moments. The book advances the story in ways that defy expectations, ensuring it's far from a mere bridge to the next installment. In fact, I both crave and dread the conclusion to come. The series might be drawing to an end, but its impact lingers, a testament to the enduring power of great storytelling. Hail Reaper.

I've read mostly everything out there. All of King's work, George RR, Sanderson, Jordan, Goodkind, R A Salvatore, Donaldson, Duncan, and so many more. If the name is on there I've read everything they've written. I love to read. This series may be the best series I've ever read. The way it's written speaks to me better than any of the kings of writing. Down to earth while still entertaining to the fullest. Might be one of the best story tellers I've come across. Can't wait to see what happens in the final book!

I’m struggling to put words together on how wonderful Light Bringer, the penultimate book in the Red Rising saga was, Brown went out and shook me to my core and made me feel things that I was not expecting at all. There were times during the first 30% or so that I was left speechless, and times where I just needed a break because certain scenes just felt like they were dragging a little long. But then the culmination of those scenes hit and the understanding of why Mr. Brown took that journey, was worth it in the end. Something I didn’t really put together until now, partially because of some chapter header quotes by Homer, is that the story does weave in some of Odysseus’ journey and the perils he faced along the way to get home from The Odyssey, as well as a little bit of the revolt of Spartacus. One of the best thing about this series has always been the strong cast of characters, and Brown continued to do an excellent job of building relationships between the characters. The relationships that are formed is what really Carrie’s Light Bringer in a different light because of how it shapes each character. Brown continues to do a spectacular job of giving me all the feels for these characters, and one of the minor issues I had in the last installment is no longer an issue! Because of the Spartacus and Odysseus references I mentioned, I also noticed that Pierce has basically set the characters up, mainly Darrow, to be a bit of a characterization of Sisyphus from Greek mythology, who was condemned to roll a rock up to the top of a mountain, only to have the rock roll back down to the bottom every time he reaches the top. “In the cold prison of our minds, we are alone with our self-hatred, our doubts, and guilt. No one more than Sevro. A friend may reach through the bars and hold our hand, but they cannot open the door for us. Only the prisoner has the key. All I can do is remind him we’re waiting for him when he gets out.” Pierce’s writing is something magical, it’s gritty and beautiful, and will always get my mind racing on what is going to happen next, because you never know with Pierce. Light Bringer was masterfully written in every single way that I can possibly think, which is why I didn’t expect to get hurt the way that I got hurt, but wow, Pierce really did decide to plunge a dagger in and give it a twist on more than one occasion. It was an enthralling symphony of emotions that had me whirling from the intensity of every scene, which had my heart thumping out of my chest. There were also some pretty amazing fight scenes left me absolutely floored. Pierce saves the best for last, because one of the absolute best scenes happens close to the end, and all I could do was grin from ear to ear. On top of everything, Tim Gerard Reynolds comes back and gives yet an incredible performance with his narration. He really did a great job and put me in a trance by making me feel the pain, anger, happiness and joy of each one of the characters with his tones. I don’t think there was one voice that he did that I didn’t like, it was the perfect narration for the perfect series. While I didn’t hate the second trilogy, I was a bigger fan of the first one, and in my opinion, Light Bringer was on par if not even better than those.

Light Bringer is the best book so far in the Red Rising series. I can not wait to see the aftermath of all that has happened. It brings my hatred for Lysander to unparalleled levels!

Amazing as always. Still the best book series I've ever read

I was pretty unimpressed by books 4 and 5 of the series, so much so that I've forgotten their names. The last one irritated me so much that I felt like giving up and only ordered this one on a whim. After the rather pointless meandering, and superfluous plot twists of the two predecessors, Light Bringer is a return to the form of the original trilogy. The plot is tighter, the intrigue is infectiously exciting and there are real moments of emotion. Unlike the previous two which I plodded through, I had to restrain myself from reading this one too quickly. It's just a lot more inspired and bodes well for the finale, which I'm really looking forward to. He could still do with a good editor, but this is an excellent yarn.

I like this one better than DA. This book was one of the best villains in the saga.

the condition of the book: 5 ⭐️ the book itself: 5 ⭐️ - the ending will haunt me forever. i’m never forgiving you, Pierce Brown.

Completely ruined cover..