Title: Blue Lily, Lily Blue (The Raven Cycle #3)

Author: Maggie Stiefvater

Genres: Fantasy, Young Adult, Paranormal

Publication Date: October 21st, 2014

Publisher: Scholastic Press

Blue Lily, Lily Blue (The Raven Cycle #3) By Maggie Stiefvater | Review

I discovered this series this year. With the release of the first book of the Dreamer Trilogy by Maggie (which continues the story of two characters from TRC, Adam and Ronan), I felt it was an opportune moment to continue with the series.
I read the first two books at the beginning of the year and quite liked them. The main reason I wanted to keep reading the series is the characters. I think they are the strong point of the books and definitely what makes me want to read the spinoff series.

The main characters: Gansey, Blue, Adam, and Ronan are very likable and The primary reason I wanted to persist with the series is the characters. I believe they are the strongest aspect of the books and definitely the reason why I am eager to delve into the spinoff series.

Throughout "Blue Lily, Lily Blue," they all grapple with self-doubt and contemplate their future choices. The world of The Raven Cycle is exceptionally unique and captivating.

Maggie's writing style is remarkable, allowing readers to vividly envision the atmosphere of Henrietta. However, unfortunately, the plot didn't captivate me as much in this particular book, and at times, it felt like it was veering off in too many directions.

  

I had several dislikes:

•  I found no appeal in any of the new characters. In fact, I perceived them all as rather annoying! What was the purpose of Malory? I patiently awaited to discover if there was a reason for his intervention in aiding Gansey, but ultimately, he felt like a character inserted as a mere filler.
• I felt the same way about Greenmantle and his wife. 
• There were an excessive number of subplots and side stories that failed to engage my interest to a significant extent. 
• The ending felt rushed to me, leaving me yearning for more answers. There weren't enough thrilling "edge of your seat" moments to keep me fully engaged.

What I liked:

• Adam Parrish! If there is one character I feel the strongest connection to in the books, it's Adam. In "Blue Lily," Adam delves deeper into his psychic abilities and his connection to Glendower, while also confronting his abusive father once again. The courtroom scene was one of my favorites in the book and undoubtedly evoked strong emotions in me.
• The interactions between Ronan and Adam. Am I shipping them yet? Perhaps just a little! I adore the moments when they collaborate and their dynamic unfolds.
• The growing closeness and increased communication between Gansey and Blue! I believe they share a special bond, and I thoroughly enjoyed witnessing its further exploration.

In conclusion:

I had hoped to enjoy this book more than I actually did, but the truth is, my interest waned towards the end. Perhaps if there had been more significant developments that tied everything together, fewer side characters, and a more intriguing plot, I would have found it more to my liking.

Nevertheless, I still intend to read the final book because I am genuinely curious to see how the series concludes. Hopefully, I will find it more appealing than the one I just finished.

3/5

Do you like The Raven Cycle? What was your opinion on Blue Lily, Lily Blue? Let me know in the comments!