minor spoilers but nothing that will ruin your reading experience; just a few minor teasers to look forward to. 
 Originally, I was going to give this four stars. I wasn't flooded with emotion or amazement. Now that I've had a little time to think, I'm going to chalk that up to my mood today instead of the quality of this finale. I'm much happier with this finale than I am for most. It's very well done. 
 In terms of development, I really enjoyed how open and honest this series has become. The first two books are threaded with manipulation and deceit, but this one gives Arin and Kestrel the stability and trust they desperately needed. They work through the damage of the last two books, and it's wonderful to watch. I never doubted how much they cared for each other nor in their ability to push through their problems. And FINALLY we have a YA heroine who decides it's far more important to be honest with her partner. FINALLY we have a healthy perspective on a budding relationship. FINALLY they take the time to learn about their lives and learn to enjoy each other. FINALLY we have a healthy sex scene that is based off of mutual love and respect. JUST FUCKING FINALLY. 
 The basis for all three books have been the romance between Arin and Kestrel. In this one, I finally felt the gravity of what was at stake for Arin and his people. The second book is more about Kestrel realizing how corrupt her society actually is. This one is about Kestrel firmly picking her side and solidifying her life in it. The romance is still addicting and intense but the balance between the romance and the revolution is well done. 
 Problems aside, Arin and Kestrel's romance may be one of my all-time favorites. Rutkoski's writing is gorgeous. She sucks me into their tension even during the duller moments. Normally, I struggle with third person, especially with multiple perspectives but I love how she weaves them together. It's effortless and engaging. Arin and Kestrel have both changed and developed a great deal up until this point, and the journey has felt natural and realistic. 
 There's really only a couple of side characters who have a consistent spotlight. Roshar is possibly my favorite character in the whole series. His wit and relationship with Arin is fantastic. We get to see a little of everyone else: Verex, Risha, Sarsine. However, Arin, Kestrel, and Roshar are the prominent three. Normally, that would bug me, but I didn't mind it at all. 
 As for the conclusion, I liked how quiet it was. It resolved the side characters effectively and went back to the focus of the series, Kestrel and Arin, without getting bogged down in all the details of what happened to the empire in the aftermath. She gave us enough to where I'm satisfied. 
 Very solid conclusion. I loved the growth especially. I was nervous after rereading the first two books but I'm pleasantly surprised and happy with this conclusion. 
 5/5 stars