A review by errantdreams
The Fallen by Lee French, Erik Kort

5.0

I was actually surprised to go back to my notes and realize just how much of this book was taken up by worldbuilding and character building, because it’s so ‘alive’ that it never felt in any way motionless or dull. I was engaged from the very first page. In particular I love both the building up of Chavali’s clan and of her personality. She is super confident, somewhat self-centered, and very sure of her place in things, all of which make total sense for her upbringing, background, and gifts. She also happily occupies the children with folk tales, shares a good relationship with her family, and doesn’t ask for more than her due. She’s smart, talented, and delightfully imperfect. In short, she’s one of the better strong female characters I’ve seen in a while.

By the way, the authors do a great job of avoiding the stereotype of drifters-as-grifters. While the clan entertains and sells things to make money wherever they go, they don’t engage in thievery. They have a rich folklore and many generations of traditions by which they live. Also, when Chavali is forced to go to Outsiders for help, the worldbuilding doesn’t stop. Everything going on beyond the clan has had just as much thought put into it.

I’ll leave the rest of the tale for you to find out on your own, because it’s gripping, enchanting, and well worth your time. I gather there are currently five books in this series, and I plan to read them all!


Original review posted on my blog: http://www.errantdreams.com/2019/01/review-the-fallen-erik-kort-lee-french/