Book: The Fallen & the Kiss of Dusk by Carissa Broadbent
Reviewed by plotdrunk
Rating: 4.5/5
This was a 4.5 star read rounded up to five. It was a long book, but I had a great time falling into this world again (although I needed to go back to remember what all had happened!). Broadbent continues to expand the scope of this series, and I'm fully committed to seeing where the next duology goes.
Mische and Asar were obviously the highlights of the book. Their dynamic hits one of my favorite tropes, which is "I will burn down the world (and underworld!) to save you." However, what really made this trope feel new was Mische's evolution. She finally stepped into her own power and agency, taking control of her own fate instead of waiting to be saved. I loved watching her evolution into something completely new. Asar's arc was equally compelling, and my favorite section was when he ascends to godhood. I loved the shift in perspective, where we clearly get to see how gods view the world with detachment and boredom.
I LOVE a crossover moment, and was so happy to see characters from one of the novellas (my favorite of the two!). I think crossovers really help deepen the world, and also provided fun moments for longtime readers (like me!). Nyaxia continued to be absolutely unhinged, and I am really curious how the House of Blood characters will shape this story in the next duology. Overall, it was immersive and emotionally satisfying, and provided a nice ending to this duology.