When I first started this series, I don’t think I knew how strongly I would come to love these characters. But here I am, crying and emotionally drained after this final ride with Nahri, Dara, Ali, Jamshid, Muntadhir and Zaynab. Some people have complained about the ending being too 'Disney-like' but, honestly, that is not a problem for me. I like hopeful books, and I think there is enough implication that there's a lot of work to be done and they still have enemies to satisfy me.

The Empire of Gold, in my opinion, is a perfect ending to The Daevabad Trilogy. Whatever misgivings I had about how Chakraborty would successfully pull this off, she really went beyond. The Daevabad Trilogy is about cycles of oppression, war, love and it’s all nestled in this vivid world steeped in Middle Eastern culture. This last book has all of the elements that kept me reading the first two books: fascinating world-building, an intriguing magic system, a little bit of politics, and complex characters. Chakraborty has a way of writing characters that are flawed but still intriguing. As much as I hated Manizheh, I could not help but be glued to the page every time she appeared. Dara, as well. His arc is one that is incredibly sad and complex. As much as I do hate him, I can't deny that his story is filled with intriguing choices, power dynamics, and motivations.

Nahri and Ali's chapters were definitely my favorite chapters because I liked seeing their journey, especially as it brought new magical elements and a different environment. I also just like them together; their friendship and romance was the slow-burn I needed in this cold winter.

No, but seriously. Nahri and Ali are definitely more than their relationship in this book. I could really tell the care Chakraborty put into their story. Nahri and Ali have to confront their values and identity all while trying to save their home.

This is a story that lives and breathes through its characters. The world is just a plus.