The cover of American author Adrienne Young’s “Fallen City” is shown. The novel was released to all major booksellers on Nov. 4, delivering an immersive story with Young’s well-developed worldbuilding, despite the novel’s flaws. “‘Fallen City’ has an exciting and innovative premise, but its non-linear execution may take away from some readers’ overall experience, especially those who prefer a more straightforward character-driven storyline,” Variety Editor Adah Hamman wrote. Photo fair use of Goodreads
American author Adrienne Young’s “Fallen City” was released on Nov. 4, and despite well-written worldbuilding, lacks clarity and development.
Released on Nov. 4, American author Adrienne Young’s “Fallen City” is full of immersive scenery and engaging characters. However, some readers may find the novel confusing, as it frequently jumps between past and present, occasionally disrupting the narrative’s momentum. “Fallen City” is dual-perspective and follows forbidden lovers Luca and Maris as they navigate their city’s corrupt political landscape and a subsequent rebellion. The 416-page book alternates between timelines, and readers witness the pair fall in love, only for them to be thrust onto opposite sides of the conflict after their plan to overhaul the government fails.
Young does an excellent job of worldbuilding, as both the novel’s setting and its characters feel well- developed, especially Luca. He wants to be with Maris, but he also wants to do what is right by his people, and this internal struggle makes him a particularly compelling protagonist.
Young does an excellent job of worldbuilding, as both the novel’s setting and its characters feel well- developed, especially Luca.
However, an aspect of the story that didn’t seem as refined was the romance between the two main characters. They only spend a brief period of time with each other before the war breaks out, but somehow, readers are expected to believe they would sacrifice everything for one another. Young tries to make up for this by implying that their relationship is destined, but it ultimately feels like a cheap way to make up for its lack of development.
Overall, “Fallen City” has an exciting and innovative premise, but its non-linear execution may take away from some readers’ overall experience, especially those who prefer a more straightforward or character- driven storyline.
