Overview

In the closing volume of the Ink & Sigil series, wizard Al MacBharrais bears twin curses that derailed his life and killed his apprentices. He must unravel who cast them—while managing god-war antics, mischievous hobgoblins and the chaos of the supernatural hidden in plain sight. A high-stakes quest with familiar faces.

Voice & Atmosphere

Hearne’s tone combines sharp humour, Celtic myth and modern magic. The prose moves briskly through Scotland and beyond, mixing urban grit, otherworldly beings and banter with gravitas. Despite the scale of the world, he keeps the story grounded in Al’s voice: defiant, wearied and driven.

Characters

Al is charismatic and haunted—his journey spans centuries and errors. Supporting cast includes the hobgoblin Buck, the Morrigan (once goddess, now meddler) and other recurring characters who bring both levity and weight. Their interactions spark the novel’s energy and emotional drive.

Themes

Curses, legacy, and the cost of power dominate this story. Magic isn’t just flashy—it takes trust, time and losses. The book asks: when you’ve lived a long life, what mistakes linger, and who writes your ending? It’s about myth made personal.

What Worked

• World-rich: the culmination of a long series delivers satisfying scale and closure.
• Strong humour and heart: banter and myth make a potent mix.
• High stakes with personal tone: narrative urgency isn’t lost in epic backdrop.

Minor Quibbles

• Less accessible to new readers unless familiar with previous books.
• At times the plot splinters into many threads, which may feel crowded.

Final Thoughts

Energetic, clever and emotionally resonant, Candle & Crow finishes the series with flair and reflection—magic, curses and what it means to live beyond centuries.

Rating: ★★★★½☆ (4.5/5)