I'm sad to see this series end. I think it is one of the most intelligently written and could continue for several more books and I'd be fine with that. But, alas, that is not to be.The only problem I had with this story is that there was little interaction between Mary and James. It makes perfect sense for the plot and it had to be that way, but still, I did miss that. The two of them together are better than either of them apart. Isn't that how the best couples should be?The mystery didn't feel as strong or compelling here, or maybe it just took longer to roll out. Mary does a lot of sleuthing, following, trying to figure out exactly what is going to happen and while not edge of your seat, it is well done. The action ramps up toward the end with all the characters coming together. There are still bits left open, such as what will happen to the Agency, but that's okay. I do with Mary had been able to have the things her father left for her, but she does get some clarity of who he is in this one. Again, there could be more in this line.Without spoilers, I can't say much more other than this is one of my favorite series and you should read it. I love so many things about these books (the time period, the characters), but I wasn't as impressed by this one as I usually am. I understand what the author was trying to do by separating Mary & James for the bulk of the story -- Mary is an independent woman; her story should be able to stand alone just as she, as a person, is able to survive and exist alone. She shouldn't need a man, or any love interest, to make her interesting (and neither should James *need* another person to be real and substantial)-- but it kind of fell flat. And even the characters felt less dynamic. James' logical and practical nature was noted too frequently, to the point where it felt repetitive. I don't know... it could've been me. I've been super busy lately, and working way too much, and I was racing through the book in order to start in on our book club book (which we're talking about in 2 days and I still haven't begun reading). I liked some of the developments (Lang, M&J's discussions about their relationship and what that means for them as individuals and as participants in society) -- I just didn't love it.
What do You think about Rivals In The City (2014)?
There's gonna be a fourth one?! CanNOT wait! This series is awesome.
—areyy
Yes!!!!! A fouth book!! :D Too bad it's the last in the series.
—agnes
GIVE ME A COVER GIVE ME JAMES. NAIO.
—peaceloveelle
