Falling Kingdoms by Morgan Rhodes (Michelle Rowen) is a downright good read. Marketed as part of Penguin's Breathless Reads collection, it's a thoroughly captivating and deliciously readable YA fantasy novel that will appeal to fans of George R. R. Martin's bestselling high fantasy series, Game Of Thrones. Personally, I could not put this book down. Told from multiple perspectives, richly imagined and packed with eye-popping action, it's truly a breathless read, and one that I will be recommending to all my friends! 
 The story focuses on three kingdoms: Auranos, Paelsia and Simeros. The kingdoms managed to co-exist in peace for many years, but when a wine maker's son is killed by a lord from another kingdom, the established peace is threatening to crumble. There is a war brewing and four seemingly unrelated young people find themselves caught in the middle of it. 
 Impressive world building, thorough character development, intrigue, magic, action, romance... Falling Kingdoms has all that and more! At more than 400 pages, it's not what you'd call a short book, but Rhodes' sharp and concise prose makes it all-too easy to lose yourself in the story and forget the real world for a day or two. With to her skilled storytelling, she created a world that is mystical, but believable nevertheless. A visually breathtaking, emotionally stimulating, intensely gripping page-turner of a book! 
 As I mentioned before, each chapter of the book concentrated on a third-person point of view of a different character. I thought the third-person narrative provided a good (objective) look at all sides of the conflict, though at times I wished the story was told in a more personal first-person narrative instead. Mainly because, while third-person narrative explored the thoughts, feelings and motivations of all four main characters, it did not make their voices distinct enough. That, of course, doesn't mean that I found the characters underdeveloped, I just thought it would've been really interesting to fully explore their unique personalities. Overall, though, I thought Rhodes did a really good job juggling the multiple characters and skilfully intertwining the story lines. The result was simply amazing: the plot line was full of interesting tidbits of information, fresh ideas and surprising plot developments. The story was a complex and multi-layered one, but not overwhelmingly or confusingly so. 
 I really enjoyed Rhodes writing style. It was more YA and MG-friendly than your usual high fantasy book and I found it easy to read and understand. The descriptions were rich in details, the dialogues - realistic. I loved the intrigue and how fast-paced the story was. I also really appreciated the fact that Rhodes was not afraid to kill off some of the characters and trust me when I say; some of those kills were real jaw-droppers! 
 All in all, Falling Kingdoms is a fresh and exciting YA fantasy novel that is sure to please a wide range of reading tastes. This book has everything from action and political intrigue to magic and romance. You really don't have to be a high fantasy lover to enjoy this story. The epic scope of the first book in the series promises a fantastic and unforgettable journey and I can't wait to read the next instalment!