Originally posted at More Than Just Magic 
 Whenever a high fantasy novel makes its way onto my radar, I immediately have to read it. Falling Kingdoms was no exception. A detailed, weaving story of three kingdoms - Auranos, Paelsia and Limeros - this was definitely a novel that was worth my time. 
 Though this has the action, intrigue and madness of any good high fantasy novel, Falling Kingdoms is all about the characters. I saw real, concrete growth (both good and bad) in all of them, and their motivations and desires were what really kept the story moving. Though I love good world-building and a plot I can lose myself in, it is always the characters that really sell me on a novel. Falling Kingdoms centres around four main point-of-view characters. Cleo, Jonas, Magnus and Lucia. Though Lucia wasn't my favourite the other three were all interesting and complex. Jonas was the one I found the most passionate, and as a result exciting. Enraged by the murder of his brother, he dreams of revolution. Who doesn't love a revolutionary Someone with fire for their spirit. Magnus was also incredibly passionate, but for much different reasons. He experiences some very complicated feelings of love and inadequacy, and some interesting issues were explored by his storyline. If I have to choose a favourite though it's Cleo. I found there was great range to her character; love, betrayal, fear, loss, strong headed-ness, courage. It was fascinating to watch her grow as a character. 
 I was also really intrigued by the magic system in Falling Kingdoms. It wasn't anything too unique, but it was still really interesting. It revolves around the elements but there also some creatures known as 'Watchers.' These hints at a greater magic system let you know there are some deeper things at play then simply a battle between three kingdoms. If I had any comment/desire for this book, it's that I want to know more about this magic system and the players within it. Hopefully that will come in later books. 
 Recommendation: An exciting, character driven fantasy adventure, that I highly recommend for fans of George R R Martin. There aren't quite as many characters, and not nearly as many deaths, but the backstabbing, fighting and adventure will keep you turning the pages.