Any Way the Wind Blows by Rainbow Rowell

This third and final book in the Simon Snow trilogy was everything I’d hoped for! I got so many wonderful SnowBaz moments, so many feels, and so many closures (both expected and totally unexpected ones). I was a bit nervous going into this book after the events in Wayward Son, but Rainbow Rowell managed to tie all lose ends together and give us a wonderful and completely satisfying wrap up.

After the road trip in Wayward Son, this book took us back to London again and the world of Mages from Carry On. Overall, this book felt very nostalgic (in the best possible way) and Rainbow Rowell brought back and connected characters and plots from Carry On, and just like I had hoped for, gave us so many adorable SnowBaz moments. That was something I missed in Wayward Son, but here their relationship was back in full throttle mood; so raw and hurting, desperate and intense, but also so tender and full of love.
 
As per usual, the story was told from different POVs and with parallel storylines. For example for Penelope and Shephard, for Agatha and even for Ebb’s goats at Watford! I’ve never rooted for Agatha in the other books, but I’m glad to say that I finally warmed up to her.
 
And, also as per usual, there were so many feelings, so much insecurity, so much dealing with the trauma Simon has been through, so much searching for your place and aim in life, which is what makes this series so utterly heartfelt. Rainbow Rowell has a unique way of describing feelings that sometimes when reading this book it felt like so was getting punched in my stomach. The intensity in Simon’s and Baz’s love was breathtaking at times, like how Simon struggled with intimacy and how he thought he would break and had to bite Baz since kissing or holding hand just wasn’t enough. I also really appreciated the deeper talks between Simon and Baz, especially about Simon’s sexuality and how he doesn’t need to label himself.
 
I have to admit that I didn’t care much for the subplot with the new chosen one cult, and the middle dragged a little for me.
 
But all in all, I am so very happy with this satisfying conclusion to this magical and wonderful trilogy! The absolute best part was all the adorable SnowBaz moments and their relationship growth! Just thinking about it makes me smile!

Rating:
5 stars

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​Author info:
Rainbow Rowell