Symphony for a Deadly Throne – E. J. Mellow

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The finale of the brilliant Mousai series sees us follow the oldest Bassette sister, Arabessa, as she embarks on a mission that will end the Mousai, and potentially her life. She’s always been the leader of the sisters, conducting their performances as the deadly trio – the Thief King’s pet torturers; bound by duty to the king, her father, her sisters. She is always poised; the picture of control and elegance. She’s always loved the orphan her father raised, Zimri D’Enieu – her stolen moments with him the only time she allows herself her own desires. And when he is given the opportunity to fulfil his parents wishes, she knows she must that before her own wants – to gain the majority shares in their club, Macaris. To do that, he must marry someone else; and although it breaks her heart, she pushes him to do just that. Because Arabessa Bassette has her own path to follow, which could mean her death before the end of the Star Eclipse, which is only a month away.

With this being the last of the Mousai trilogy, Mellow has managed to bring together the stories of the Bassettes without anything feeling too contrived. You’re there, in the hidden cave kingdom that ensures the rest of the realm is safe from chaos. You feel the debauchery, the sin as much as if you were there. You see the glittering glowworms that act as the hidden worlds stars, feel the wonder of their light. You feel the fear when walking the crowded roads and alleyways with the sisters; feeling the danger their presence brings, even when they’re not acting as the Mousai. You feel their bond with each other, their love for each other; as well as that frustration only siblings bring. It’s a stunningly crafted book series; every name, place and even word chosen with care and love. Mellow has managed to create worlds just as tangible as our own when you’re reading this series.

As for this book? Symphony for a Deadly Throne has taken my breath away. It is filled with love, heartbreak and choices that could break a kingdom. There are scenes that could bring a blush to even the most salacious being, and scenes that could bring tears to the eyes of someone with an iron clad heart. It’s full of personal sacrifice, generosity and greed. Full of contradictions and logic. And a wonderful, apt ending to a wonderful series.

I can not wait to see what comes for Mellow.

S. A.

I reviewed Symphony for a Deadly Throne after downloading it to read for free on Kindle Unlimited. You can read it too, by clicking on the books name, or below.

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