A review by hannahsnerdycorner
Leaves May Fall by Carissa Hardcastle

adventurous medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Plot
  • Strong character development? It's complicated
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? No

4.75

As an ARC reader I was terrified to read Leaves May Fall in case I hated it, safe to say I absolutely loved it! 

When I first started reading the prologue I was worried that my worst fear was going to come true but after the first chapter I realised that it was just the usual 'trying to get into a fantasy book and not understanding the words' and Carissa introduced me (as the reader) to the world in a clear way, weaving past memories in to help me understand the complex world, nay, universe.

I loved how unique this book is in terms of the world and dynamics, for example how the guy best friend is never anything more than that - because men and women can just be friends! (You might understand the uniqueness of the plot when you are about 80% through the book - I just couldn't believe she had done that for so long)

Carissa Hardcastle is a skilled writer and I will be buying her next book the second it comes out! (Hopefully a sequel of Leaves May Fall after that epilogue O_O)

Here are some little things which just add to it:
  • Chapter titles using things characters will say in that chapter
  • Guys' POV (though not regularly)
  • Guy best friend, but platonic
  • LGBTQ+ representation without it being a plot point (aromantic/asexual + gay)
  • Banter/sass (I could honestly have an entire book of just interactions between the characters without any of the plot and I would have absolutely loved it)
  • Character list, chapter list and map at the start

Definitely going to buy the paperback to add to my collection - I am happily paying for this book!