The Toll

"The Toll" by Neal Shusterman is a satisfying conclusion to the "Arc of a Scythe" trilogy. The book picks up where the second book, "Thunderhead," left off, with Citra and Rowan now separated and trying to make their way in the world. Meanwhile, the Thunderhead is grappling with its own issues, and a mysterious new character named Greyson Tolliver emerges, who may hold the key to resolving the conflicts in this world.

Shusterman continues to weave a complex and thought-provoking story that explores themes such as power, corruption, and the nature of humanity. The characters are well-developed and their struggles feel real and relatable. Citra and Rowan's journeys take them to unexpected places, and it's fascinating to see how they continue to evolve and grow throughout the book.

The addition of Greyson Tolliver as a main character is a welcome one, as his unique perspective adds an extra layer of depth to the story. The world-building in "The Toll" is also impressive, with Shusterman delving deeper into the intricacies of the Thunderhead's governance and the Scythedom's rules and rituals.

The pacing of the book is slower than the previous installments, but this allows for a greater exploration of the characters and themes. The ending is satisfying and wraps up the series in a way that feels true to the story and its themes. Overall, "The Toll" is a fitting conclusion to an excellent trilogy that will leave readers thinking long after the last page.