Thirst of Steel

I was gutted at the end of Thirst of Steel, the astounding conclusion to The Tox Files. It's a good thing no one was here. Seriously, my husband would have thought I was crazy, crying over a fictional character like I did but I was totally stunned and almost sick to my stomach—the emotional tension in the final chapters was off the charts! Yes. I know that sounds unbelievable. We are talking about fiction, after all. But I think that is the sign of an unquestionably good book, when the author can draw the reader so far into story that you connect with the characters, feel invested in their lives and the choices they make or don’t make. Every book I choose to read, I hope this is the way I am going to feel. The Tox Files has been one of the best series I have read and certainly Kendig’s finest! There are many memorable characters that deserve mention. No doubt about it. But the two that impacted me most are Tox and Ram and their relationship. They are not only brothers-in-arms but brothers-in-Christ. The trust between them is unwavering. At a critical moment, they quote the Special Forces Creed to each other. As the parent of an active military member, I know firsthand the bond and allegiance that forms between compatriots and my tears flowed. Incredible amounts of energy and emotion are prevalent in Thirst of Steel. It resonates with the purest and most perfect example of well-written characters, dialogue, mystery, and sacrifice. No quarter is taken in the pacing, action or intensity of this story. Be prepared for the ride of a lifetime as Tox, Ram, and the Wraith team slake the Thirst of Steel! I was provided an electronic copy of the book from the publisher through Netgalley. I was not required to write a review. No compensation has been received.