I am looking forward to the release of
Scourged, the final novel in the
Iron Druid Chronicles (by Kevin Hearne). I actually have the hardcover and audiobook pre-ordered.
A prediction:
Atticus O'Sullivan (Siodhachan O Suileabhian) will die in the final novel during the battle to put down Loki's attempt to bring about Ragnarok, or the end of the world.
One of the main clues is that of the POV characters (all in first person), the telling (journal) of Atticus is written in past tense, while Granuaile's and Owen's are written in present tense.
Oberon was devastated when Atticus 'died' in
Hunted, but now he has Orlaith and their litter of puppies to care for. It will give him purpose and the ability to move forward despite the loss of his long-time friend. Plus, a short tale in Besieged, both prepared Oberon for the potential loss while setting the stage for it.
Owen is busy rebuilding the druids with his current grove of apprentice druids, so the death of Atticus will not deprive the world of druids.
Granuaile will feel the loss, but the Morrigan's unnecessary 'sacrifice' in
Hunted, while battling Diana and Artemis in order allow Atticus and company to escape, is actually part of her long-seeing plan to reunite with Atticus in the land of the dead. The Morrigan has repeatedly proven her vision of future events, such as providing placing Atticus's Arch Druid (Owen Kennedy) on the time island, with information that his youth could be returned to him, or giving Odin the gem to let him know of her death and the what actions he should undertake when that occurs, etc.
Okay, I could be wrong. We'll see. In any case, I expect
Scourged will be an excellent read/listen.
