Book Review: Angelfall (Penryn & the End of Days Book 1) by Susan Ee
Ever find a book that feels like it resonates with your innermost thoughts and fears? That’s how I felt when I picked up Angelfall by Susan Ee. The original premise drew me in: angels wreaking havoc instead of spreading love and light? I was instantly intrigued!
Plot Overview and Themes
In this thrilling post-apocalyptic landscape of Northern California, Penryn Young becomes an unlikely heroine as she fights to rescue her younger sister, Paige, who’s been abducted by fearsome angels. The world has crumbled into chaos, with street gangs ruling the days and nightmarish angels descending from the sky, leaving devastation in their wake. What stands out is how Penryn’s struggle is not just to save her sister but also to navigate her complex relationship with her mentally ill mother, making her journey impactful on various emotional levels.
The themes of family loyalty, survival, and the stark contrasts between good and evil certainly challenged my perspective on what it means to embody true strength. Penryn is not your average damsel in distress; she’s tough, intelligent, and emotionally layered—a character I couldn’t help but root for.
Character Dynamics
The relationship between Penryn and Raffe, the wounded angel she reluctantly allies with, is brilliantly written. Their chemistry is palpable yet evolves slowly, showcasing a realistic development that feels refreshing amid the often rushed romances in YA literature. Their banter had me chuckling, while moments of genuine connection tugged at my heartstrings.
A notable quote that lingered with me is, “I am not afraid of you, your kind, or your god.” It captures Penryn’s fierce spirit and resilience beautifully. This is a kickass protagonist who doesn’t just accept her fate but fights against it with everything she has.
Writing Style and Pacing
Ee’s writing style is engaging and vivid, filled with brisk pacing that leaves you breathless. The short chapters create a sense of urgency, compelling you to keep turning pages well into the night. She knows how to build tension and suspense, transforming the simple act of reading into an exhilarating ride. I found myself flipping through the pages, eagerly wanting to see what awaited Penryn next.
Final Thoughts
As I turned the final pages, a mix of satisfaction and yearning washed over me. Angelfall is a gripping start to a series that has quickly cemented its place on my bookshelf. It’s not just a fantasy; it explores deeper themes of identity, morality, and what it means to fight for those we love.
If you’re a fan of compelling heroines, dark settings, and a story that defies conventional tropes, then I can’t recommend Angelfall enough. It beautifully intertwines horror and humor, family dynamics and romance. Trust me, this is a book that will linger long after you’ve turned the last page, as I suspect it will continue to haunt me with its vivid imagery and emotional depth. Happy reading, everyone!
You can find Angelfall (Penryn & the End of Days Book 1) here >>