In Karina Halle's thrilling conclusion to the Underworld Gods series, Goddess of Light, Hanna Heikkinen's journey takes a dramatic turn. Having sacrificed herself and become Queen of Tuonela, she now finds herself entangled in a desperate battle for the Underworld. Her love for the grumpy God of Death, Tuoni, is tested as ancient evils, led by Louhi, threaten to shatter the delicate balance between life and death. Unveiling a hidden divine heritage, Hanna must confront powers beyond her comprehension to save Tuonela from oblivion. This final installment delivers a heart-pounding clash of love, duty, and epic proportions as Hanna fights to protect her realm and the souls it holds, facing impossible odds in a battle for eternity.
Review Goddess of Light
Oh my goodness, Goddess of Light! Where do I even begin? As someone who's been with the Underworld Gods series from the very first page of River of Shadows, this final installment felt like saying goodbye to old friends – a bittersweet farewell, but one filled with so much love and gratitude. Karina Halle has woven a tapestry of myth, magic, and emotion that has truly captivated me.
This isn't just a story about a battle between light and darkness; it's a deep dive into grief, love, and the lengths we'll go to for those we cherish. Hanna's journey, from a mortal woman sacrificing everything to the powerful Goddess of Light, is nothing short of breathtaking. Halle masterfully portrays the complexities of grief, that raw, visceral ache of loss that resonates so deeply within the narrative. I felt Hanna's pain, her determination, her unwavering love for Tuoni, the God of Death, as keenly as if it were my own. And speaking of Tuoni… that grumpy god stole my heart early on, and seeing him completely vulnerable and devoted to Hanna in this book was simply beautiful.
The action in Goddess of Light is relentless. It’s a whirlwind of epic battles, stunning displays of power, and the constant threat of oblivion. The stakes are incredibly high, and you're kept on the edge of your seat, wondering who will survive and what sacrifices will be made. I loved the inclusion of multiple perspectives, giving us intimate glimpses into the experiences of Lovia, Tuonen, and even the antagonists. It allowed for a richer understanding of the conflict and the motivations driving each character.
While the pace might feel a little slower in the early parts of the book as the stage is set for the final showdown, it's entirely necessary for the emotional weight to land. The build-up to Hanna's full power, her eventual acceptance of her destiny, and the culmination of her love with Tuoni is powerful and deeply satisfying. Halle doesn't shy away from the darkness; there are losses, sacrifices, and moments of despair that will leave you emotionally drained, but the ultimate triumph of light and love is all the more powerful because of it.
Some readers mentioned feeling a slight lag in the pacing or wishing for more exploration of certain side characters. I understand those sentiments, but for me, the focus on Hanna's journey and the central conflict felt appropriately weighted. The emotional core of the story, the unbreakable bond between Hanna and Tuoni, carries the narrative even through the most intense battle sequences.
Ultimately, Goddess of Light is a fitting conclusion to an exceptional series. It's a testament to Halle's skill as a storyteller, her ability to craft a world that feels both fantastical and intensely real, and her understanding of the human heart. If you're looking for a dark fantasy romance that will leave you breathless, emotionally invested, and completely satisfied, then this is the series (and book!) for you. It's a read I'll cherish, and revisit, for years to come.
Information
- Dimensions: 5 x 0.97 x 8 inches
- Language: English
- Print length: 436
- Publication date: 2024
- Publisher: Metal Blonde Books
Preview Book
