The Last Graduate

"The Last Graduate" is a young adult fantasy novel by Naomi Novik, the second book in the Scholomance series. The book continues the story of Galadriel "El" Higgins, a student at the Scholomance school for young sorcerers. The novel explores themes of friendship, loyalty, and self-discovery in a magical setting.

In "The Last Graduate," El returns to the Scholomance for her final year of schooling, only to find that things have taken a dark turn. With the school's founders missing and mysterious forces at work, El and her friends must navigate dangerous obstacles and uncover the truth about the Scholomance's past. Along the way, El grapples with her own growing powers and the sacrifices she must make to protect those she cares about.

Novik's writing style is engaging and keeps the reader invested in the story, with well-crafted world-building and a unique magic system. The pacing is well-done, with the tension building gradually throughout the novel. The characters are well-developed, with El's growth and self-discovery being a highlight of the book. The plot is intricate and unpredictable, keeping the reader on their toes.

While the book's strengths are many, some readers may find the story overly complex or confusing at times, with a large cast of characters and a complex magic system.

"The Last Graduate" is a strong addition to the Scholomance series, with engaging writing, well-developed characters, and a complex plot. While it may not be for everyone, fans of the genre will find much to enjoy in this young adult fantasy novel.