Book Review: The Final Gambit by Jennifer Lynn Barnes

“The world is the board, Heiress. We just have to keep rolling the dice.”

Jennifer Lynn Barnes, The Final Gambit

*REVIEW ALLUDES TO EVENTS FROM THE FIRST BOOK AND MAY BE CONSIDERED SPOILERS*

Review:

Once again, I have managed to become completely invested in the Hawthorne (and honorary Hawthorne) riddles and games.

Upon turning eighteen, Avery is heading toward the complete inheritance of the Hawthorne billions. However, the arrival of Eve brings another game, this time one that contemplates friends and foes. 

It took a little while for me to get into the plot of this one. I still had some trouble keeping the Hawthorne boys straight. I think I might finally have it down now. Everything picked up in the second half, and then I didn’t want it to end. I liked how much Avery lead this game compared to the others where she was still learning the ways Hawthornes play.

I’m sad to see this particular part of the series come to an end. I never anticipated getting as hooked on the books as I have. Though my feelings are mixed on a lot of things, I have to say this has become one of my all-time favorite series. 

Likes & Dislikes:

What I liked:

• Avery being more in charge of situations (overall).
• The very last part of the game, which I won’t specify due to spoilers.
• Lots of great quotes in this one.
• Avery’s character growth.
• Nash and his cowboy hats.

What I didn’t like:

• I was hoping we were done with the love triangle in the second book… apparently not.
• Thea and Rebecca seem to be forgotten toward the end unless maybe I missed something.

Afterthoughts:

I’m looking forward to reading The Brothers Hawthorne when it comes out, but I also hope there will be an eventual continuation of Avery’s story. I found the ending predictable, but I’m so absorbed into this grandiose universe at this point that I’m forever going to crave more.

Where to buy the book: