TL;DR - You'll adore it if you adore the others

Okay, so I kinda adored this book, but I had to, I've been so excited about it coming out for months now.

In this instalment of the Parasol Protectorate we once again see Alexia and the gang rush off to foreign lands. This time with Ivy Tunstell and her acting troop in tow, to investigate the expansion of the plague that turns super natural creatures mortal.

Biffy finally seems to get over Lord Akeldama (which is almost a bit of a shame, I always sort of hoped they would get together again somehow). Biffy starts a relationship with Professor Lyall, which to me seems a little bit weird because I always saw Professor Lyall as old, wise and fatherly, rather than someone I would see Biffy falling for. Or perhaps I'm just jealous and want Biffy for myself.

Oh and poor Biffy, having his love whisked away to again. He can't seem to catch a break there.

Lord Maccon has another argument with Alexia, which seemed a little played out, over Lyall luring him down to London. While the argument was justified I kinda felt we'd seen this before when Maccon had thought someone else had made Alexia pregnant. Though, I do love their conversations when they're in danger and angry with each other.

I adore Lord Akeldama as per normal, he is just the best in many ways. We see a little less of him in this book, but that's alright. Love the descriptions of him and his drones with the naked werewolves.

Ivy (as I kinda expected) gets a big social boost at the end of this, becoming the queen of a large respected hive in London. And you know, I'm really glad, she's kinda clumsy and indelicate and likes big hats, but I think we all kinda want an Ivy Tunstell in our lives, to because her heart is in the right place.

Overall, it felt, not predictable, but like the tropes of the series had fallen into place for one final last romp. I'm glad it's the last book, because I think that the series might get tired if there was another one, not because Ms Carriger can't think up exciting new adventures, but rather the social dynamic is somewhat played out. One perfect last ride into the sun set.

Having said that. I can't wait for the new series The Parasol Protectorate Abroad beginning with Prudence, as I do still adore the writing style and the world. I'm kind of hoping that Prudence turns out a little bit like Susan in the Discworld.