this was a good book but like many books the ending was a bit lacking, I did like how the author didn't shy away from the hard topics, overall it was a good end to a great series

Wonderfully written. Nice to see her connect with family, better understand the healing her city needs, and how Bitterblue grows in this novel is enticing.

I'd been looking forward to Bitterblue for a couple years and I have to admit it didn't quite live up to my expectations. It's a perfectly good novel, don't get me wrong and it's delight to revisit Cashore's fantasy world and encounter characters I loved from previous books (Katsa and Po!). But while Bitterblue is an adequate heroine, I was never as attached to her as I was to Katsa and Fire. Part of this may be due to her role as queen which means that her adventures are decidedly less intense than those in previous novels. But similarly, the romantic plot in this novel is anemic compared with the swoon factor included in previous books in the series. And while I was thrilled to get to see Katsa and Po again, it was very much from the outside looking in due to the limited third-person narrative. Definitely enjoyable for readers already immersed in the series but not everything I'd wanted. However, that being said, if Cashore were to write a novel in this universe I would definitely read it.

I haven't read graceling and fire but I'm going to read them next....kind of a strange book

Bitterblue is not a teen-angst love story or a light hearted fantasy, the author does not shy away from adult issues of torture and abuse, both physical and mental. Her world-building is excellent, and her characters are unique and have their own individual voice. I loved the main character. Bitterblue is far from perfect as she stumbles along, but she is intelligent and learns from her mistakes and you can see a thoughtful, caring ruler emerge as she acquires knowledge and strength. There is a romance between a commoner boy and the Queen, but it is deftly handled and isn’t the main focus of the story. I loved this book and wonder where this author will take us next.

This was my least favourite book of the 3, but it was still a fast read. I wish there was a little more romance.

Consistently amazing series. I enjoyed reading this book as much as the others- I don't know how the author does it, but I am simply distracted when I am NOT reading th book, because it is so engaging. Not as much action and adventure as the first two novels, which I missed quite a bit- much more introspective and contemplative. Also, the ending left me a bit sad and unsatisfied , which made me rate it lower than the typical 5 stars for the other books in this series. Still, certainly worth reading.

A very interesting read! (though I liked Graceling and Fire better) It's unusual for an author to write a fantasy adventure/mystery depicting the lasting effects of corruption and trauma. In this case, it's the trauma not only of Bitterblue, but her advisors, staff, and her kingdom as a whole. Not as action-packed, and having more plot holes than the previous books, but definitely a sequel worth reading!

Was that the end of the series or do you get to see how the all the kingdoms can work together?

I loved this book way more then Graceling. I think I just liked Bitterblue more than Katsa. This book would make an amazing movie! Can't wait to read Fire.