Book Review: Angelfall: Penryn & the End of Days, Book 1 by Susan Ee
When I first stumbled upon Angelfall, I was intrigued by the tantalizing blend of angels, apocalyptic chaos, and a strong female protagonist. Susan Ee’s storytelling has been praised for its raw emotional depth and fast-paced narrative, so naturally, I was eager to dive into this world. What I didn’t expect was how profoundly this book would resonate with me, stirring both my heart and my mind.
A Gritty, Intense Journey
Set in a world ravaged by angelic warfare, Angelfall introduces us to Penryn Young, a fiercely determined seventeen-year-old who will do whatever it takes to rescue her kidnapped sister. Armed only with her wit and an unyielding resolve, she forms an unlikely alliance with Raffe, a fallen angel stripped of his wings. Their initial partnership, born out of necessity, evolves intriguingly throughout the story, offering a captivating twist on the classical enemies-to-lovers trope.
The characters in Angelfall are impressively multidimensional. Penryn’s struggles resonate deeply; she bears both the weight of caring for her sister, who has physical disabilities, and her paranoid schizophrenic mother. The emotional stakes are palpable, giving readers a reason to root for her every step of the way. Raffe, with his sardonic humor and layered complexities, adds a potent dynamic that kept me invested in their journey. Their serendipitous alliance highlights themes of trust, sacrifice, and survival in an unforgiving world.
Writing Style and Pacing
Ee’s writing style is crisp and engaging. The pacing is relentless, offering a perfect balance of action and introspection. I found myself flying through the pages, heart racing during intense confrontations and pausing to savor poignant moments woven throughout. One standout moment for me was when Penryn defiantly states, “I am not afraid of you, your kind, or your god.” This quote encapsulates her fierce spirit and set the tone for her journey—a reminder of the power of resilience in the face of despair.
The world-building is equally impressive, crafting a vivid dystopian landscape that feels hauntingly real. The gritty backdrop—where street gangs breed chaos and the skies are darkened by angelic foes—immersed me fully into this unsettling reality. It wasn’t merely a backdrop; it became a character in its own right, breathing life and tension into the narrative.
Final Thoughts
Angelfall is not just a tale of survival; it’s an exploration of what it means to fight for family amidst chaos. If you enjoy fast-paced, emotionally charged narratives with fiercely strong characters, this book is an absolute must-read. Fans of series like The Hunger Games or Divergent will find themselves enthralled by Ee’s imaginative take on the post-apocalyptic genre.
Personally, I closed this book feeling a sense of exhilaration mixed with melancholy, eager yet anxious for what comes next in the series. With its blend of thrilling action, sharp dialogue, and rich emotional layers, Angelfall has certainly carved its place among my all-time favorites. The journey has just begun—here’s hoping the wings keep flying high!
You can find Angelfall: Penryn & the End of Days, Book 1 here >>