The End Of Time: Volume 3 (The Books of Umber)

I enjoyed reading this series, which I bought for my teenage son. A good fantasy hike that had plenty of unique features (so rare in this age of pseudo-Lord Of The Rings books swamping the market). I think the first 2 books were rather better than this third one, as I think it needed a better explanation as to how the hero saved the day at the end. It was all a bit vague and perhaps required the writing of another book to explain what he had done to avert the great disaster that devastated Umber's world... Perhaps this book is being written and I am criticizing unnecessarily. But it just felt a bit unfinished, or rushed.

The ending did feel a bit rushed. I did like the epilogue though and the fact that though it seemed out of nowhere the method used by Umber to unlock Hap's potential was shown to be effective in an earlier book. I feel that a fourth book would have allowed the author to tell the climax in a better way, there were too many revelations in this book.But despite my issues with the book, it gets five stars because I actually felt bad for Willy Nilly at the end, and I didn't think that was possible. And for the impressive adventure yank with the dragons. Also in what other fantasy story do they finally just shoot the evil King? Bonus points for it being with an actual rifle. Now if only Doane's men had shown up during the Battle of Hogwarts...I'll stop here cause the spoilers seem to be spilling now.

I know I'm reviewing this book but overall the whole series was amazing! I may be young but I have read so many books and most of them haven't reached my level of expectations but I'm glad to say this book has. It has so many emotions that I fell in love with this book and its characters that it broke my heart when the series ended and how sad the epilogue was... Seriously, when my parents called me to eat dinner I was crying and had to explain to my laughing siblings and parents that a book made me cry. And that only happens when I become attached to a book series which isn't often. So if you're reading this review I recommend this book!

Characters start out in great danger but hard to fall in love with their personalities at first, but a few pages in they become more real and distinct and charming. Catanese creates some amazing situations and wraps it up well in the end of the series. I recommend this series as well as "The Thief and the Beanstalk". I will read more of his work.

This is fantastic ending to the "Books of Umber" trilogy. It combines adventure with personal growth, tragedy, and an ending that ties it all together. As I read the epilogue, though I was happy with where it took me, I was hungry for more, for another adventure. When I reached the final sentences I was contented. All was as it should be. A perfect part three, from beginning to it's feel good end.Thank you P.W. Cantonese for sharing this wonderful world. Very well done!!!