Is The Darkling Defeated In 'Ruin And Rising'?

I just finished rereading 'Ruin and Rising' for the third time, and let me tell you, the emotional weight of the deaths in this book hits just as hard every single time. The story doesn’t shy away from sacrifice, and each loss feels like a punch to the gut. The most impactful death is undoubtedly the Darkling. After centuries of manipulation and power struggles, his end is almost poetic—a mix of tragic inevitability and fleeting redemption. There’s this haunting moment where Alina sees the boy he might have been, buried under centuries of darkness. It’s not just a villain’s demise; it’s the collapse of an era, and Leigh Bardugo writes it with such raw intensity that you can’t help but pause after reading it. Then there’s Baghra, the Darkling’s mother. Her death is quieter but no less significant. She spends her life trying to undo the damage her son caused, and her final act is one of defiance. The way she goes out—teaching Alina even as she’s dying—adds layers to her character. It’s not just about loss; it’s about legacy. And David. Oh, David. His death is sudden and brutal, a reminder that war doesn’t discriminate between warriors and scholars. His relationship with Genya makes it even worse, because you see the aftermath through her eyes. The way she clings to his inventions afterward? Heartbreaking. These deaths aren’t just plot points; they’re woven into the themes of power, love, and the cost of both. Every time I revisit 'Ruin and Rising,' I notice new details in these scenes—how the sunlight filters through the ruins during the Darkling’s last moments, or the way Baghra’s voice wavers but never breaks. It’s masterful storytelling.

The finale of 'Ruin and Rising' left me emotionally wrecked in the best way possible. Alina's journey culminates in this epic showdown where she finally faces the Darkling in a battle that shakes the very foundations of Ravka. The sacrifice she makes to destroy the Fold and end his reign is heartbreaking yet perfect—she loses her powers but gains true freedom. What struck me most was how Bardugo subverts the chosen-one trope; Alina isn’t some invincible savior. She’s flawed, exhausted, and ultimately human. The way she and Mal choose a quiet life together afterward feels earned, not sentimental. The supporting characters get satisfying closures too—Nikolai’s political genius shines as he rebuilds Ravka, and Zoya’s growth hints at her future role in the Grishaverse. The ending isn’t just about good defeating evil; it’s about what comes after victory, and that’s what makes it unforgettable. The world-building in the final act is phenomenal. The ruins of the Chapel and the eerie beauty of the Shadow Fold’s destruction create this haunting backdrop for the climax. Bardugo doesn’t shy away from consequences—Ravka is left scarred but hopeful. The religious undertones (like the saints’ sacrifices) add depth without being preachy. And that last scene with Alina opening her school? Chills. It’s a quiet, powerful statement about rebuilding through knowledge rather than power. The book’s ending respects its characters too much for a tidy ‘happily ever after,’ and that’s why it works.

Mal's journey in 'Ruin and Rising' is a rollercoaster of physical and emotional transformation. From the start, he's grappling with the aftermath of being tortured by the Darkling, which leaves him visibly scarred and struggling with his sense of purpose. His relationship with Alina becomes more complex as they both confront the weight of their destinies. The bond between them is tested repeatedly, especially when Mal learns about his true heritage as a descendant of Baghra and the Darkling's bloodline. This revelation shakes him to the core, forcing him to reevaluate his identity and role in the fight against the Darkling. What stands out most is how Mal's loyalty and love for Alina never wavers, even when the truth about his lineage threatens to drive a wedge between them. His sacrifice at the end is heart-wrenching—he offers himself up as the third amplifier to amplify Alina's powers, knowing it will cost him his life. The scene where he tells Alina to let him go is one of the most poignant moments in the book. It’s a testament to his growth from a skeptical tracker to someone willing to give everything for the woman he loves and the greater good. The aftermath of his death is handled with such raw emotion, making his eventual return through merzost feel both miraculous and bittersweet.

As someone who devoured the entire 'Shadow and Bone' trilogy, 'Ruin and Rising' being the final book makes perfect sense when you look at how the story arcs resolve. The trilogy follows Alina Starkov's journey from a powerless orphan to the Sun Summoner, and by this third book, her conflict with the Darkling reaches its inevitable climax. The narrative structure demands closure – Alina's internal struggle with power and her external battle against the Darkling's tyranny both come to a head here. What makes 'Ruin and Rising' particularly satisfying as an ending is how it doesn't just wrap up the main plot but also addresses the series' central themes. The book explores the cost of power, the meaning of sacrifice, and the blurred lines between good and evil. We see Alina make her final choices about who she wants to be and what she's willing to give up. The supporting characters like Mal and Nikolai also complete their transformative arcs. The trilogy's world-building elements – the Grisha orders, the Fold, Ravka's political situation – all find resolution or at least reach logical stopping points. Bardugo could have stretched this into more books, but that would have diluted the impact of this carefully constructed finale where every piece falls into place.

In 'Ruin and Rising', Alina's journey with her powers is one of the most gripping aspects of the story. After losing her abilities in the previous book, she spends much of the final installment grappling with their absence, which feels like a part of her soul is missing. The way Bardugo writes this struggle is incredibly visceral—Alina isn’t just powerless; she’s hollow, and that emptiness drives much of her character development. But yes, she does eventually regain her powers, though not in the way you might expect. It’s not some grand, triumphant moment where everything snaps back into place. Instead, it’s messy, painful, and tied to the Fold’s destruction. The process involves sacrifice, both personal and cosmic, and the powers she reclaims aren’t quite the same. They’re darker, more raw, and come with a price that reshapes her destiny. What’s brilliant is how this mirrors her growth—she doesn’t just get her old self back; she becomes something new, a reflection of all she’s endured. The restoration of her abilities isn’t just a plot device. It’s deeply symbolic. Alina’s power was always tied to her identity, and losing it forced her to confront who she was without it. When she regains it, it’s not a return to status quo but a transformation. The book’s climax hinges on this moment, blending her personal catharsis with the larger battle against the Darkling. The way her powers resurge—through connection, pain, and love—echoes the trilogy’s themes of resilience and self-discovery. It’s not a clean victory, but it’s a satisfying one, leaving her changed but whole in a way that feels earned.

The rising sign, also known as your ascendant, depends on the exact time and location of your birth. Normally, it rotates every two hours, hence I can't easily determine your rising sign without those details. You can use an astrological chart calculator online to accurately figure it out.

'Ascendant Rising' is an intriguing title that introduces readers to a world rich with adventure and complex characters. The story unfolds in a realm where celestial influences shape the destinies and fates of its inhabitants. The exploration of astrological themes mixed with well-crafted narratives sets it apart from typical fantasy works. The protagonist captures attention immediately with their unique background and motivations. Their journey is anything but straightforward, filled with unexpected challenges and moral dilemmas that keep readers engaged. The character development is impressive, making it easy to connect with their struggles and triumphs. Along the way, they encounter a cast of supporting characters who add depth and texture to the story, each with their own arcs that intertwine beautifully with the main narrative. One of the standout elements of 'Ascendant Rising' is its world-building. The author has created a vivid setting that feels alive, with intricate cultures, customs, and mythologies that enrich the reading experience. The attention to detail creates a sense of immersion that encourages readers to lose themselves in the pages. The laws of the universe, intertwined with astrological elements, provide a fresh lens through which to view the characters' journeys. Additionally, the writing style strikes a balance between poetic and accessible, making it enjoyable for both seasoned readers and those newer to the genre. The pacing keeps the story moving, interspersing moments of action with quieter, introspective scenes that resonate deeply. Themes of destiny, choice, and the fight for one's place in the universe are woven throughout the narrative. These themes resonate widely, prompting readers to reflect on their own lives and choices. The philosophical undertones are thought-provoking yet not overly heavy, allowing for enjoyment and contemplation simultaneously. 'Ascendant Rising' offers a compelling blend of fantasy, character-driven storytelling, and meaningful themes. It's a title that stays with you long after the last page, sparking discussions about the nature of fate and the power of individual agency in a universe governed by celestial forces. If you enjoy stories that challenge conventions and explore deeper meanings, this book deserves a spot on your reading list.

I'd like to share a little bit about astrological theories. The Ascendant, or rising sign, is one of three determining factors in astrological charts, along with the Sun and Moon signs. Meaning it represents which sign of the zodiac had risen above (or been rising on) the eastern horizon for you when were born--it changes about every two hours. Your Ascendant, much like your first impression in various situations, is the book cover. It could also determine what people think about your appearance and first impression of you. In general, it's what makes you tick on a daily basis and often indicates what type of person you are perceived as being by others. Therefore, having knowledge about your rising sign can definitely provide a more comprehensive view of yourself!