Literary Merit: Good
Characterization: Okay
Recommended: Highly Recommended
Reading Level: High School

Nielsen concludes her Mark of the Thief trilogy with an action-packed parable about the futility of war. Nic, the series' ill-fated Chosen One, has spent much of the series collecting ever-stronger weapons to use against formidable enemies. Ultimately, he must learn that the only true way to stop never-ending conflict is through forgiveness and the destruction of the very weapons he's sacrificed so much to obtain. The lesson may seem a little trite, but Nielsen makes it work with a well-developed, deeply conflicted protagonist and some truly frightening - and sometimes grisly - plot twists. Nic's motivations, flaws, and thought processes all feel natural and believable, but his cast of supporting characters often seem like they are simply fantasy types equipped with Roman names and gear, from the spunky love interest to the cackling bad guy. Despite the shallowness of the supporting cast, this tale will be popular with fans of Nielsen's series, as well as with fans of YA fantasy and adventure in general. Admirably, reading the first two books of the series is not a requirement to appreciate and understand this finale. Give peace - and this book - a chance. ( )