This is the last of the Dark is Rising sequence and, in keeping with my re-read of the Prydain Chronicles, this is probably my least favorite book, again because it is the most epic.

In this last tale the Dark and Light are gathering for one last battle and Will Stanton and his Welsh friend, Bran, must gain the crystal sword and join with the Drew siblings to aid Merriman.

Everyone is here, but for me the book is marred by the long section all about looking for the crystal sword through the Lost Land. The pace in this large section seemed off and I had trouble caring about what happened. The ending of this novel also feels off, somehow - like Cooper ran out of steam and worked to tie up loose ends all at once. Choices are expediently made or not made at all and Gummery, predictably, goes off to the Summer Country (or the Old One equivalent).

Still and all this is a wonderful series for both children and adults (and excellent for reading aloud chapter by chapter)! ( )

This is the best book in the Dark is Rising series since the one that bears that name. It is fairly long (compared to Greenwitch and The Grey King) and sometimes seems a little slow-going, but for the most part it kept me in suspense as it improved immensely upon my criticism of the previous books in the series that it seems like things happen too easily for the characters. For much of this story, the children have no idea what they're supposed to be doing next, but are figuring out how the bits and pieces of verses they've picked up throughout all their adventures fit together. All the children from the previous books come together in this one, and it really ties up all the loose ends from the earlier stories. My only regret about the plot is that it is hinted a few times that Jane might be special in some way, but there is never really an indication of what that might mean. The moral theme of free will in relation to fulfilling prophecy again plays a strong role in this book, and while I may not agree with the take on it presented here, it is at least elegantly addressed. This is a fitting conclusion to an enjoyable series, and one that leaves you disappointed to see it all end. ( )

Possibly the best series of books I ever read. I have visited every location mentioned in the books! A powerful set of stories when I was younger, I would still enjoy them now. The movie is bound to be a huge let down - but I still can't wait to see it! ( )

The last and longest book in the "The Dark Is Rising" series holds the reader’s interest and does not disappoint but it is not as tightly put together as the fourth book—perhaps because there were so many threads that had to be pulled together. All of the characters from the previous books have a part to play – for good or evil—in this final installment. For younger readers there are probably more surprises than for older readers who pick up on “clues” that are dropped, whether intentionally or unintentionally I’m not always sure. All in all it was a series which I enjoyed but will probably not read again. ( )