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A review by fafabookcorner
The Last Fallen Star by Graci Kim
adventurous
challenging
dark
emotional
funny
inspiring
lighthearted
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
Beware spoilers ahead!
Trigger Warning(s): Death and grief.
Rep: All the characters are Korean American.
My Thoughts Before Reading: I had heard about this book through Goodreads and Twitter. I have had a weird relationship with books that have mythology. I used to like them then just seemed to grow out of them.
Regardless I was drawn to this book. I loved the synopsis and the cover. I decided to give it a go. I am happy to say that I loved it!
What I Liked: The plot was fantastic! It had me hooked from the first page to the last. I was always on the edge of my seat reading. I didn’t see any of those twists and turns coming. The twist with Riley’s heritage, the real truth behind the Horangi clan, and of course the Cave Bear Goddess.
The magic system was so unique and exciting! I loved reading about the different clans, the specific abilities associated with each clan, the history of the clans, and I especially loved reading about the Gom clan. The mythology was so fascinating and fun. How modern day references like BTS were woven into the magic system also fun.
I loved reading about Riley’s relationship with her family! They were so close to one-another and treated Riley like she was one of them. Despite not being biologically related. I especially adored Riley’s relationship with Hattie the most. Hattie supported Riley, encouraged her to stand up for herself, and was just a loving older sister. Which is why Riley goes through hell and back to get Hattie back and help her family.
I loved reading about Riley’s friendship with Emmett! They were ride or die friends. Supported each other, stood by one-another, and understood each other like no one else could. Riley was openly sensitive whereas Emmett was secretly sensitive. Emmett was also the pragmatic friend in the group and a giant softie. I also enjoyed reading about Riley’s developing friendships between Jennie, David, Taeyo, Noah, Areum, and Cosette.
I loved reading about Riley’s character development! How she grew to accept herself in her community and family, becoming more confident, and believing in herself/worth. Her journey was hard and she grew a lot. By far one of the best character developments I have ever read.
My Criticism(s): Absolutely nothing!
What I’m Looking Forward To: I was not excepting Riley’s family and friends (sans Hattie) to lose all their memories of her. Let alone the reveal with the Haetae or Riley being the last fallen star. Plus that chilling epilogue. I need closure and answers ASAP.
I am very curious to see how the magic system will now work with the Gom clan having no powers. And I have so many questions about the goddesses and Mago Halmi. I am so excited to read The Last Fallen Moon!
Conclusion: Overall I loved The Last Fallen Star! I highly recommend it if you are looking for a middle grade fantasy series.
Trigger Warning(s): Death and grief.
Rep: All the characters are Korean American.
My Thoughts Before Reading: I had heard about this book through Goodreads and Twitter. I have had a weird relationship with books that have mythology. I used to like them then just seemed to grow out of them.
Regardless I was drawn to this book. I loved the synopsis and the cover. I decided to give it a go. I am happy to say that I loved it!
What I Liked: The plot was fantastic! It had me hooked from the first page to the last. I was always on the edge of my seat reading. I didn’t see any of those twists and turns coming. The twist with Riley’s heritage, the real truth behind the Horangi clan, and of course the Cave Bear Goddess.
The magic system was so unique and exciting! I loved reading about the different clans, the specific abilities associated with each clan, the history of the clans, and I especially loved reading about the Gom clan. The mythology was so fascinating and fun. How modern day references like BTS were woven into the magic system also fun.
I loved reading about Riley’s relationship with her family! They were so close to one-another and treated Riley like she was one of them. Despite not being biologically related. I especially adored Riley’s relationship with Hattie the most. Hattie supported Riley, encouraged her to stand up for herself, and was just a loving older sister. Which is why Riley goes through hell and back to get Hattie back and help her family.
I loved reading about Riley’s friendship with Emmett! They were ride or die friends. Supported each other, stood by one-another, and understood each other like no one else could. Riley was openly sensitive whereas Emmett was secretly sensitive. Emmett was also the pragmatic friend in the group and a giant softie. I also enjoyed reading about Riley’s developing friendships between Jennie, David, Taeyo, Noah, Areum, and Cosette.
I loved reading about Riley’s character development! How she grew to accept herself in her community and family, becoming more confident, and believing in herself/worth. Her journey was hard and she grew a lot. By far one of the best character developments I have ever read.
My Criticism(s): Absolutely nothing!
What I’m Looking Forward To: I was not excepting Riley’s family and friends (sans Hattie) to lose all their memories of her. Let alone the reveal with the Haetae or Riley being the last fallen star. Plus that chilling epilogue. I need closure and answers ASAP.
I am very curious to see how the magic system will now work with the Gom clan having no powers. And I have so many questions about the goddesses and Mago Halmi. I am so excited to read The Last Fallen Moon!
Conclusion: Overall I loved The Last Fallen Star! I highly recommend it if you are looking for a middle grade fantasy series.