Explore the Complexities of Love and Power in Fallen City by Adrienne Young

Author: Adrienne Young

Publisher: St. Martin's Press

Rating: 5★

When I first picked up Fallen City by Adrienne Young, I was instantly captivated by its Greco-Roman inspired setting and the promise of a slow-burn political romance. As someone who can find multiple points of view (POVs) overwhelming, I was initially wary of the dual timelines—one before the rebellion and one at its climax. However, I was pleasantly surprised to see that Young expertly navigates these complexities, crafting a narrative that is engaging and easy to follow.

A World Rich in Detail

From the very first page, I was immersed in the world Young has crafted. The rich details of the society, with its stark class struggles and political intrigue, felt both familiar and refreshingly unique. We see a clear divide between the elite and the lower class, and the tension bubbles throughout the narrative. Young masterfully weaves these elements into the story, allowing readers to fully engage with the immersive experience she offers.

Dual Perspectives: A Balancing Act

A standout feature of Fallen City is its dual POV structure. We view the world through Luca Matius, a legionnaire and heir to his uncle's forum seat, and Maris Casoeria, a high class girl and heir to her mother's forum seat, ambitious young dreamers eager to transform their city. I worried that one character might overshadow the other, but Young skillfully balances their narratives. Each character’s voice and beliefs resonates distinctly. While Luca's desire to fight against injustice fuels his actions, Maris seeks a more diplomatic path. Their motivations are fleshed out in a way that sustains interest in both journeys, creating an intricate tapestry of perspectives.

The Slow-Burn Romance

At the heart of Fallen City is a slow-burn romance unfolding against a backdrop of political chaos. Luca and Maris are not merely star-crossed lovers; they are passionate individuals convinced they can incite change. Their relationship evolves slowly, allowing readers to savor each moment. At one point, when they share a stolen moment under the stars, the palpable tension between personal desires and societal expectations becomes heartbreakingly clear. It’s this delicate balance that makes their romance compelling and relatable.

Political Intrigue and Power Struggles

The political landscape in Fallen City is as intricate as the characters themselves. Young dives into the power struggles between the elite and the lower class, illustrating how these dynamics shape the lives of ordinary citizens. You get to see how the elite narrate events to fit their own selfish agendas. How one's desire for power can bring down a whole city. The rebellion serves as the backdrop for their personal stories, and it's fascinating to see how their ambitions dovetail with broader societal changes. This layer of political intrigue enriches the narrative and keeps readers engaged throughout.

A Heartbreaking Cliffhanger

As I approached the end of Fallen City, I was left with a whirlwind of emotions. The story does not stand alone, and the cliffhanger is both thrilling and deeply moving. Young has expertly laid the groundwork for an epic continuation, leaving me eager for the next installment. The seamless blend of past and present timelines creates a tension that makes readers feel intimately tied to the characters' struggles and outcomes.

An Accessible Introduction to High Fantasy

If you are uncertain about diving into high fantasy, Fallen City might be the perfect gateway. Young’s world-building is accessible yet layered, enabling readers to grasp the complexities of her society with ease. The themes of love, power, and societal evolution resonate on multiple levels, making it a compelling read for both seasoned fantasy fans and those new to the genre.

Discover Why It’s a Must-Read

Fallen City by Adrienne Young is a remarkable blend of romance, political intrigue, and rich world-building. The dual POVs and timelines, which initially concerned me, turned out to be one of the book's defining strengths. Young has crafted a story that is not only engaging but also thought-provoking, leaving readers eager for more. If you are searching for a book that explores the complexities of love and power in a beautifully imagined world, I wholeheartedly recommend picking up Fallen City when it releases on November 4th, 2025.

Thank you St. Martin's Press | Saturday Books for an eARC via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.