That was the best Up-and-Under book yet, easily. I enjoyed the other two, gave them both 4 stars, but things are set up really well for book 4, which will be the fire book. I'm curious to see if we'll get a 5th book, an aether book, but given how closely this is related to the Middlegame series, I suppose it depends on where that goes?

Relatedly, read Middlegame before picking up this series. Also, don't just pick up the third book and expect to know what's going on. No, there isn't some grand plot that needs to be followed, but nor are these standalone titles.

I really love Seanan's writing, in this series and Alchemical Journeys, even if I didn't enjoy Seasonal Fears as much. It's fairy tale and metaphysical, while being distinct from the Wayward Children type of fairy tale? That being said, this one did remind me somewhat of In An Absent Dream.

I'm glad to see Zib and Avery continuing to develop as characters, and to become more aware of the world they're in? Actions have consequences, whether externally or interpersonally, and they're finally understanding that. Also, that ending? I can't wait for book 4, and to see where we may go on the alchemical journey.

Thank you to NetGalley for an early copy of the book in exchange for an honest review!

I just love this series. Charming and introspective and thoughtful. A great series for fans of the Fairyland books.

If you didn't like the first two in this series (which are must-reads, this is not a standalone), there's nothing for you here. If you did, it's more of the same (in the most delightful way).

For people who read Seasonal Fears and hated it the way that I did, I also should note - for me, personally, everything that didn't work in SF works in this series much better. While it came across as condescending and overly explanatory in SF, McGuire's writing style is baked in to the lore in this series. It also works much better in a series aimed at children rather than adults.