Etched in Bone (The Others Series Book 5) by Anne Bishop
4.5 / 5 Stars
397 Pages
Originally Published in 2017
Finished Reading on October 8, 2024
You ever get to that bittersweet moment when you finish the last book in a series you’ve been devouring? That was me with Etched in Bone. I’ve been living in the world of the Others – sneaking chapters in the early mornings and late nights, and telling anyone who’ll listen that these “monsters” were more human than most humans. This series has been such a wild, clever, and heart-tugging ride, and the final book did not disappoint.
“Control is an illusion. Survival is not.”
What I Loved
The Lakeside Courtyard crew feels like family by now, and I adored every single moment spent with Meg, Simon, and their growing circle of allies. Anne Bishop wraps up the series with the same gritty tension and gentle humor that made the first four books shine. The relationships deepen, the dynamics shift, and it’s all anchored in Meg’s continued growth as she learns to trust herself and live without the constant fear that once defined her. Simon’s protective alpha energy was *chef’s kiss*. And the contrast between the ruthless Others and the warmth of their chosen community was so satisfying. There’s also a thread of found family that just tugs at my heart every time.
“Some monsters are worth loving.”
What I Didn’t Love
As with the rest of the series, it’s a slow pace and if you’re looking for fast action or a swoon worthy love story this won’t be it. And I’ll admit, I wanted a LITTLE more closure or a true “moment” between Meg and Simon. We’ve been WAITING! Still that understated emotional payoff somehow fits the tone of the series, even if i was shouting at the page a few times.
“Maybe it wasn’t about what she was supposed to be. Maybe it was about who she wanted to become.”
Final Thoughts
At its core, Etched in Bone is about building a community. Messy, complicated, and fiercely loyal. It’s about the power of choice in healing, about compassion in the face of cruelty, and the strength of those often overlooked. I loved how it held space for trauma, recovery, and friendship. All against the backdrop of a dark, often brutal world. It’s quietly profound in the way only Anne Bishop can be.
This books is for:
- Readers who love character-driven urban fantasy
- Fans of found family and world-building that feels lived in
- Anyone who’s followed this series and wants a deeply satisfying ending
This was a worthy ending to a series that has truly taken root in my bookworm heart. Etched in Bone felt more intimate, more reflective, and full of emotional depth. If you’ve been on the journey with Meg, it’s absolutely worth finishing. And if you haven’t started the series yet… what are you waiting for?
This was 4.5 stars for me!
Have you read The Others series? What did you think of the final book?
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