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The Fall Before Flight
Rhu Farrier is determined to save her best friend and end the war between the Risen Union and the Kedrel Empire. She isn’t about to let losing a leg stop her.
Two thousand years after a powerful mage Lessened dragons from enormous beasts to scaled humanoids, war ravages the land of Obsthea once again. Rhu’s mission is kill the Kedrelli emperor, no matter the cost. But when Rhu loses her leg in battle, her best friend Loren is sent to complete the mission in her stead. Rhu and Loren both know he won’t make it to the Kedrel capital alive. He’s not an assassin. He’s a simple soldier—honest and forthright and a terrible liar. Despite her new disability, Rhu journeys to Kedrel to help Loren complete the assassination that should have been hers to carry out.
Daxian Cloud is a loyal dragon. Not like the Oathbreakers—rebels who have forsaken the Oath of Servitude all dragons took during the Lessening. A dragon without the Oath is a dragon without honor. So, when Oathbreakers strike his mistress’s estate, Daxian doesn’t question the order to execute them. Until the hood falls from an Oathbreaker’s face. Until his beloved little sister is revealed to be one of them.
Everest Naught is a frail, asthmatic orphan—a little "nothing" in the world. When he meets a blacksmith's apprentice, his lonely life changes. Everest longs to be powerful, to be more than nothing. But when the time comes to make sacrifices, is Everest prepared for them now that he has something to lose?
The lives of millions depend upon the decisions of these three disparate people. But are the oaths they made to the world ones they can keep?
Two thousand years after a powerful mage Lessened dragons from enormous beasts to scaled humanoids, war ravages the land of Obsthea once again. Rhu’s mission is kill the Kedrelli emperor, no matter the cost. But when Rhu loses her leg in battle, her best friend Loren is sent to complete the mission in her stead. Rhu and Loren both know he won’t make it to the Kedrel capital alive. He’s not an assassin. He’s a simple soldier—honest and forthright and a terrible liar. Despite her new disability, Rhu journeys to Kedrel to help Loren complete the assassination that should have been hers to carry out.
Daxian Cloud is a loyal dragon. Not like the Oathbreakers—rebels who have forsaken the Oath of Servitude all dragons took during the Lessening. A dragon without the Oath is a dragon without honor. So, when Oathbreakers strike his mistress’s estate, Daxian doesn’t question the order to execute them. Until the hood falls from an Oathbreaker’s face. Until his beloved little sister is revealed to be one of them.
Everest Naught is a frail, asthmatic orphan—a little "nothing" in the world. When he meets a blacksmith's apprentice, his lonely life changes. Everest longs to be powerful, to be more than nothing. But when the time comes to make sacrifices, is Everest prepared for them now that he has something to lose?
The lives of millions depend upon the decisions of these three disparate people. But are the oaths they made to the world ones they can keep?
553 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 30, 2025
3 people are currently reading
47 people want to read
About the author
Kristine Castillo Negron
1 book3 followersKristine Castillo Negron is an indie author and folklorist who is passionate about the ritual of storytelling. The Fall Before Flight is her debut novel. She has a BA from the University of Iowa in English and Japanese and an MA in Asian Studies from the University of California, Santa Barbara. She lives in Texas with her awesome husband, her two vibrant sons, two cats (one nice, one not so much), and one neurotic corgi. For more information about Kristine’s stories, visit kcnwrites.carrd.co.
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Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews
July 19, 2025
A Masterfully Crafted Fantasy Epic 🐉
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
Kristine Castillo-Negron delivers a remarkably sophisticated fantasy novel that transcends genre conventions while honoring the best traditions of epic storytelling. "The Fall Before Flight" presents a narrative architecture that is both intricate and accessible, weaving together three distinct character arcs with impressive literary dexterity.
The worldbuilding demonstrates exceptional depth and originality 🌍. Castillo-Negron's concept of the Lessening, a transformative event that reduced dragons from colossal beasts to humanoid forms, establishes a compelling mythological foundation that permeates every aspect of Obsthean society. The geopolitical conflict between the Risen Union and the Kedrel Empire feels authentically complex, avoiding the oversimplified binaries that often plague fantasy warfare narratives.
Rhu Farrier emerges as a particularly compelling protagonist whose journey offers meaningful disability representation within the fantasy genre 💪. Her refusal to allow the loss of her leg to derail her mission speaks to themes of resilience and self-determination that resonate beyond the fantastical elements. The relationship between Rhu and Loren provides the novel's emotional anchor, their friendship characterized by genuine intimacy and mutual sacrifice that elevates the stakes considerably.
Daxian Cloud's narrative arc explores the psychological complexities of divided loyalty with remarkable nuance 😔. His discovery that his sister has become an Oathbreaker creates a moral crisis that interrogates honor, duty, and familial love concepts. The dragon culture Castillo-Negron constructs around the Oath of Servitude adds layers of sociopolitical commentary that enrich the fantasy elements significantly.
Everest Naught's transformation from insignificance to consequence provides an excellent counterpoint to the other storylines ⚡. His arc examines the corrupting potential of power while simultaneously exploring themes of belonging and self-worth. The tension between his desire for significance and his newfound connections creates compelling internal conflict.
The prose demonstrates impressive control and sophistication without sacrificing readability. Castillo-Negron maintains excellent pacing throughout, balancing exposition with action sequences that feel visceral and consequential. The dialogue captures distinct character voices while avoiding the stilted formality that sometimes mars fantasy fiction.
Most impressively, the novel tackles substantial themes, such as war, disability, sacrifice, and the nature of power, with intellectual honesty and emotional authenticity. The moral complexities never feel contrived; they emerge naturally from the characters' circumstances and choices.
This is exemplary fantasy literature that rewards careful reading while delivering genuine entertainment. It is highly recommended for readers seeking narratives that respect their intelligence while providing immersive escapism.
Thank you to Kristine Castillo-Negron and VoraciousReaders for the gifted copy of this book. I was more than happy to leave my honest opinion! 📚✨
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
Kristine Castillo-Negron delivers a remarkably sophisticated fantasy novel that transcends genre conventions while honoring the best traditions of epic storytelling. "The Fall Before Flight" presents a narrative architecture that is both intricate and accessible, weaving together three distinct character arcs with impressive literary dexterity.
The worldbuilding demonstrates exceptional depth and originality 🌍. Castillo-Negron's concept of the Lessening, a transformative event that reduced dragons from colossal beasts to humanoid forms, establishes a compelling mythological foundation that permeates every aspect of Obsthean society. The geopolitical conflict between the Risen Union and the Kedrel Empire feels authentically complex, avoiding the oversimplified binaries that often plague fantasy warfare narratives.
Rhu Farrier emerges as a particularly compelling protagonist whose journey offers meaningful disability representation within the fantasy genre 💪. Her refusal to allow the loss of her leg to derail her mission speaks to themes of resilience and self-determination that resonate beyond the fantastical elements. The relationship between Rhu and Loren provides the novel's emotional anchor, their friendship characterized by genuine intimacy and mutual sacrifice that elevates the stakes considerably.
Daxian Cloud's narrative arc explores the psychological complexities of divided loyalty with remarkable nuance 😔. His discovery that his sister has become an Oathbreaker creates a moral crisis that interrogates honor, duty, and familial love concepts. The dragon culture Castillo-Negron constructs around the Oath of Servitude adds layers of sociopolitical commentary that enrich the fantasy elements significantly.
Everest Naught's transformation from insignificance to consequence provides an excellent counterpoint to the other storylines ⚡. His arc examines the corrupting potential of power while simultaneously exploring themes of belonging and self-worth. The tension between his desire for significance and his newfound connections creates compelling internal conflict.
The prose demonstrates impressive control and sophistication without sacrificing readability. Castillo-Negron maintains excellent pacing throughout, balancing exposition with action sequences that feel visceral and consequential. The dialogue captures distinct character voices while avoiding the stilted formality that sometimes mars fantasy fiction.
Most impressively, the novel tackles substantial themes, such as war, disability, sacrifice, and the nature of power, with intellectual honesty and emotional authenticity. The moral complexities never feel contrived; they emerge naturally from the characters' circumstances and choices.
This is exemplary fantasy literature that rewards careful reading while delivering genuine entertainment. It is highly recommended for readers seeking narratives that respect their intelligence while providing immersive escapism.
Thank you to Kristine Castillo-Negron and VoraciousReaders for the gifted copy of this book. I was more than happy to leave my honest opinion! 📚✨
June 26, 2025
After reading The Fall Before the Flight, I can honestly say my life, heart, & soul will never be the same. They will be permanently marked by this story and these characters. And I will wear those marks proudly. I will wear them and I will shout from the rooftops to anyone who will listen just how utterly amazing this book is.
It would be easy to say that The Fall Before the Flight is a high fantasy story. Easy to say the world-building is deep and detailed. Easy to say the characters are masterfully crafted. Easy to say the plot is intriguing and immersive.
Saying and writing all of that would be easy. What wouldn't be easy is trying to convey how this story will affect you. And it will affect you. Deeply. It tackles some serious topics and deals with them with utmost respect. It dives deep into the dark depths of servitude, of making one population less than the other, of the long-lasting effects of such lessening.
Could one fly after falling over and over and over? Could one emerge from the depths of the underground tunnels straight into sunlight? Could one feel the freshness of the air after decades, centuries, millennia of being closed inside?
Yes, they can. They can throw off the shackles, defy the odds even when they thought it impossible. Maybe it took them a long time to do so. Maybe they were driven by their horrific life circumstances. But still, change is possible. Freedom is possible, in any form one deems fit.
Freedom can be so many different things for so many different people. Freedom to be, to choose, to live. Freedom, simple as that. Rhu, Dax, and others will each strive to find their own forms of freedom, regardless of the circumstances and dangers. They will fight in ways they can.
They will all fall and they will all fly, whether physically or metaphorically. They will fly.
And you will also spread your booking wings and fly with Kristine and the rest of us. Trust me.
I couldn't thank Kristine enough for allowing me to ARC read her book; it was an honor and a privilege I will never take lightly.
It would be easy to say that The Fall Before the Flight is a high fantasy story. Easy to say the world-building is deep and detailed. Easy to say the characters are masterfully crafted. Easy to say the plot is intriguing and immersive.
Saying and writing all of that would be easy. What wouldn't be easy is trying to convey how this story will affect you. And it will affect you. Deeply. It tackles some serious topics and deals with them with utmost respect. It dives deep into the dark depths of servitude, of making one population less than the other, of the long-lasting effects of such lessening.
Could one fly after falling over and over and over? Could one emerge from the depths of the underground tunnels straight into sunlight? Could one feel the freshness of the air after decades, centuries, millennia of being closed inside?
Yes, they can. They can throw off the shackles, defy the odds even when they thought it impossible. Maybe it took them a long time to do so. Maybe they were driven by their horrific life circumstances. But still, change is possible. Freedom is possible, in any form one deems fit.
Freedom can be so many different things for so many different people. Freedom to be, to choose, to live. Freedom, simple as that. Rhu, Dax, and others will each strive to find their own forms of freedom, regardless of the circumstances and dangers. They will fight in ways they can.
They will all fall and they will all fly, whether physically or metaphorically. They will fly.
And you will also spread your booking wings and fly with Kristine and the rest of us. Trust me.
I couldn't thank Kristine enough for allowing me to ARC read her book; it was an honor and a privilege I will never take lightly.
June 21, 2025
I received a free ARC (advanced reader copy) of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I feel like I’m genuinely at a loss for words. I need someone else to read this so I can yap about it without spoiling anything. This was amazing. Everything flowed together perfectly, and I was captivated from start to finish. This world and these characters felt so real, and the development of the characters was so well done. I will be waiting (im)patiently for the next book, because this was genuinely amazing.
I feel like I’m genuinely at a loss for words. I need someone else to read this so I can yap about it without spoiling anything. This was amazing. Everything flowed together perfectly, and I was captivated from start to finish. This world and these characters felt so real, and the development of the characters was so well done. I will be waiting (im)patiently for the next book, because this was genuinely amazing.
July 28, 2025
"This Tale I Tell so that each age may yet remember and know that in these stories lie great power.”
The Fall Before Flight is a tumultuous adventure tackling serious and important topics with grace and understanding told from multiple POVs to encompass the intricately layered and smartly woven plot.
"A fiction, but what if it were not?"
You know the saying, "There's always more to the story?" Well, that's apt for The Fall Before Flight (even if the saying wasn't referring to literal stories).
This is a story about strength and resilience, about being brave and courageous even when it's difficult, about using your strengths to help those who need it. It's about realizing and understanding that the truth you've been told and always accepted as truth may not be, in fact, truth. It's about war, and what war costs everyone.
Two thousand years ago, a powerful mage Lessened all dragons from what we all think of when we hear the word "dragon," to human-like beings with scales. All dragons took the Oath of Servitude during the Lessening, ensuring dragons would serve humans as a way of showing appreciation and gratitude towards humans.
Dragons strictly adhere to the Oath, without question.
Set in a world at war with the Risen Union being for dragon freedom and the Kedrelli being against.
It focuses on 3 main characters:
Rhu Farrier (a military infiltrator for the Risen Union), Daxian (Dax, a dragon human), and Naught (an orphan). While defending an important military location, just before she's set to complete the biggest military challenge of her career (killing the Kedrelli emperor), Rhu loses one of her legs. The military chooses to instead send Rhu's best friend, and past paramour, Loren to complete the assignment. Loren isn't trained as an assassin, nor as an infiltrator, and his looks means he will stand out prominently. Having lost her leg less than a year ago, Rhu knows she can't let her best friend go into this assignment untrained and alone - for they both know that would be certain death. She decides to join him, knowing it will be incredibly difficult on her.
Daxian Cloud is loyal to the Oath, without question. "A dragon without the Oath is a dragon without honour," and Daxian highly values his honor. He is not a beast, unlike the Oathbreakers - dragons who have forsaken the Oath and struggle for freedom. Daxian doesn't ever question his mistress, he executes her orders unfailingly. When Oathbreakers attack his mistress's estate but are caught and he's ordered to execute them. One of the Oathbreaker's hoods fall off just as he executes them, revealing it's his beloved little sister.
Everest Naught, an undersized and asthmatic orphan, is picked up and bullied in the orphanage and on the streets. He has no family name and so was given a "nothing" name - Naught. He's all alone in the world, until he meets a boy not much older working as an apprentice to a blacksmith. Now he has a friend, but he still longs for more. He wants to be powerful, he's so tired of being nothing.
💭 This book - I'm astounded that this is the author's debut. Epic fantasy, done well, seems like such a giant, difficult undertaking for any author. One that this author handled with grace, bravery, and intelligence all while giving the serious topics discussed respect and
"Is this freedom?"
📖 What is freedom, to you? That's one of the many big questions this novel presents. It elucidates how freedom can look different to different people, and even vary throughout points in one's own life.
And that ending! 🤯
🗺️ Filled with rich descriptions and intricate lore, this is a well developed world.
No big chunks of exposition. Instead, we get a more natural exploration and explanation of the world interwoven with informational dialogue. It's spread out so you get what you need when you need it, without being overwhelmed with info dumps.
Multi-POVs can be confusing, difficult to keep up with and follow. However, I feel this author handled it well. I didn't personally struggle to keep up or follow, but others may.
🔮 A breath of fresh air, this magic system that is well explained and developed - and incredibly interesting. It's a unique system for me, and I thoroughly enjoyed and appreciated the part a person's will played in magic.
What I thought was particularly special about this magic system was the role of memories and the emotions they evoke. How one person can look at one of their one memories one way, but then something current changes and their view of that same memory can vastly change.
I struggle to classify this one as a soft or hard magic system, but I think it would fall into hard.
✍🏼 Clear, descriptive writing that's rich in history and lore, with thought and intentional word choices this book was a joy to read.
If I didn't know it was 553 pages, I never would've guessed because it reads relatively quickly. It probably helps that I really, really didn't want to put it down. 😆
⏳ Fear not, the slower start that many epic fantasy books have - The Fall Before Flight does not. You're thrown into the action early on.
I find that the start of most epic fantasy novels can be a bit slow as the groundwork for the world is being laid.
⚔️ Two countries at war means there's a good bit of fighting and battles. Kristine does a great job of describing them and showing you the scenes. As someone with no skill in combat, I can't say if they're realistic to real life, but they felt realistic to me.
↪️ Earlier on, I thought I had figured out some key pieces. I pride myself on being decent and figuring it out before it's revealed. I expect many experienced fantasy readers will think they have it figured out too, but they'd likely be wrong (like I was). All that to say, the twists and turns are well executed and timed. The
👥 Excellently developed characters with so much personality and nuance - these characters will live rent free in my brain for ever.
You know that feeling you get when you both hate and love a character? You hate who they are now, but also have empathy for how events beyond their control helped turn them into the person they are? Yeah, this book gave me that feeling. Like you can understand how they ended up where they did, while hating that they allowed the world to turn them into what it did.
I'm a huge fan of the diverse and inclusive cast of main characters.
🗣️ I loved the banter between certain characters. The dialogue reads smoothly and naturally, befitting the characters. I appreciate the author showing
💞 There are tiny bits of romance, but this is not a book you read for the romance (nor was it intended to be). I wouldn't classify this as romantasy, or even fantasy romance, at this point in the series.
⚠️ TW/CW: Racism, sexism, ablism, suicide attempt, war, violence - non exhaustive list,
please see author's site for more info.
Thank you @kcnwrites for the opportunity to read this eARC, and to @eclecticbychoicereads for bringing this gem to my attention. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.
The Fall Before Flight is a tumultuous adventure tackling serious and important topics with grace and understanding told from multiple POVs to encompass the intricately layered and smartly woven plot.
"A fiction, but what if it were not?"
You know the saying, "There's always more to the story?" Well, that's apt for The Fall Before Flight (even if the saying wasn't referring to literal stories).
This is a story about strength and resilience, about being brave and courageous even when it's difficult, about using your strengths to help those who need it. It's about realizing and understanding that the truth you've been told and always accepted as truth may not be, in fact, truth. It's about war, and what war costs everyone.
Two thousand years ago, a powerful mage Lessened all dragons from what we all think of when we hear the word "dragon," to human-like beings with scales. All dragons took the Oath of Servitude during the Lessening, ensuring dragons would serve humans as a way of showing appreciation and gratitude towards humans.
Dragons strictly adhere to the Oath, without question.
Set in a world at war with the Risen Union being for dragon freedom and the Kedrelli being against.
It focuses on 3 main characters:
Rhu Farrier (a military infiltrator for the Risen Union), Daxian (Dax, a dragon human), and Naught (an orphan). While defending an important military location, just before she's set to complete the biggest military challenge of her career (killing the Kedrelli emperor), Rhu loses one of her legs. The military chooses to instead send Rhu's best friend, and past paramour, Loren to complete the assignment. Loren isn't trained as an assassin, nor as an infiltrator, and his looks means he will stand out prominently. Having lost her leg less than a year ago, Rhu knows she can't let her best friend go into this assignment untrained and alone - for they both know that would be certain death. She decides to join him, knowing it will be incredibly difficult on her.
Daxian Cloud is loyal to the Oath, without question. "A dragon without the Oath is a dragon without honour," and Daxian highly values his honor. He is not a beast, unlike the Oathbreakers - dragons who have forsaken the Oath and struggle for freedom. Daxian doesn't ever question his mistress, he executes her orders unfailingly. When Oathbreakers attack his mistress's estate but are caught and he's ordered to execute them. One of the Oathbreaker's hoods fall off just as he executes them, revealing it's his beloved little sister.
Everest Naught, an undersized and asthmatic orphan, is picked up and bullied in the orphanage and on the streets. He has no family name and so was given a "nothing" name - Naught. He's all alone in the world, until he meets a boy not much older working as an apprentice to a blacksmith. Now he has a friend, but he still longs for more. He wants to be powerful, he's so tired of being nothing.
💭 This book - I'm astounded that this is the author's debut. Epic fantasy, done well, seems like such a giant, difficult undertaking for any author. One that this author handled with grace, bravery, and intelligence all while giving the serious topics discussed respect and
"Is this freedom?"
📖 What is freedom, to you? That's one of the many big questions this novel presents. It elucidates how freedom can look different to different people, and even vary throughout points in one's own life.
And that ending! 🤯
🗺️ Filled with rich descriptions and intricate lore, this is a well developed world.
No big chunks of exposition. Instead, we get a more natural exploration and explanation of the world interwoven with informational dialogue. It's spread out so you get what you need when you need it, without being overwhelmed with info dumps.
Multi-POVs can be confusing, difficult to keep up with and follow. However, I feel this author handled it well. I didn't personally struggle to keep up or follow, but others may.
🔮 A breath of fresh air, this magic system that is well explained and developed - and incredibly interesting. It's a unique system for me, and I thoroughly enjoyed and appreciated the part a person's will played in magic.
What I thought was particularly special about this magic system was the role of memories and the emotions they evoke. How one person can look at one of their one memories one way, but then something current changes and their view of that same memory can vastly change.
I struggle to classify this one as a soft or hard magic system, but I think it would fall into hard.
✍🏼 Clear, descriptive writing that's rich in history and lore, with thought and intentional word choices this book was a joy to read.
If I didn't know it was 553 pages, I never would've guessed because it reads relatively quickly. It probably helps that I really, really didn't want to put it down. 😆
⏳ Fear not, the slower start that many epic fantasy books have - The Fall Before Flight does not. You're thrown into the action early on.
I find that the start of most epic fantasy novels can be a bit slow as the groundwork for the world is being laid.
⚔️ Two countries at war means there's a good bit of fighting and battles. Kristine does a great job of describing them and showing you the scenes. As someone with no skill in combat, I can't say if they're realistic to real life, but they felt realistic to me.
↪️ Earlier on, I thought I had figured out some key pieces. I pride myself on being decent and figuring it out before it's revealed. I expect many experienced fantasy readers will think they have it figured out too, but they'd likely be wrong (like I was). All that to say, the twists and turns are well executed and timed. The
👥 Excellently developed characters with so much personality and nuance - these characters will live rent free in my brain for ever.
You know that feeling you get when you both hate and love a character? You hate who they are now, but also have empathy for how events beyond their control helped turn them into the person they are? Yeah, this book gave me that feeling. Like you can understand how they ended up where they did, while hating that they allowed the world to turn them into what it did.
I'm a huge fan of the diverse and inclusive cast of main characters.
🗣️ I loved the banter between certain characters. The dialogue reads smoothly and naturally, befitting the characters. I appreciate the author showing
💞 There are tiny bits of romance, but this is not a book you read for the romance (nor was it intended to be). I wouldn't classify this as romantasy, or even fantasy romance, at this point in the series.
⚠️ TW/CW: Racism, sexism, ablism, suicide attempt, war, violence - non exhaustive list,
please see author's site for more info.
Thank you @kcnwrites for the opportunity to read this eARC, and to @eclecticbychoicereads for bringing this gem to my attention. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.
July 30, 2025
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Get ready for an epic fantasy full of dragons, magic, a deadly mission and a slowly unravelling mystery.
The Fall Before Flight takes an approach to dragons and dragon lore in a way I've never seen before, and I truly felt the same ache and longing to learn the lost history of their people just as much as the characters in the book did. The story has solid worldbuilding with a genuinenly interesting magic system that constantly kept me interested in learning more.
The plot wove past and present together in a skillful way, giving just enough of a taste to keep you hungry for learning how all the pieces fit together. The first chapters were slow to get through, making it a bit harder to get into the story at first, but once the momentum picked up it kept me invested in the characters and plot to the very end. In fact, the last 150 pages I practically devoured in my desperation to see what would happen. And what a strong and deeply intriguing end it was!
The story shifts between several POV characters, giving a glimpse from different perspectives of how life is for different people in this world, and how they relate to each other. I enjoyed seeing where each character came from and what motivations drove them forward, it was especially nice to see an unconventional epic fantasy protagonist. The antagonists were also fantastic, I loved getting insight into their machinations and motivations as well. I would have liked to see more conflict or misunderstandings between the characters at times, or to see them come up against more resistance along the way, to drive character development/relationships or shake up the pacing of the story. But otherwise the character building was great and some of their stories made my heart ache in just the right way.
All in all, this is a very solid debut novel and I'm very excited to see where this story will go next!
Get ready for an epic fantasy full of dragons, magic, a deadly mission and a slowly unravelling mystery.
The Fall Before Flight takes an approach to dragons and dragon lore in a way I've never seen before, and I truly felt the same ache and longing to learn the lost history of their people just as much as the characters in the book did. The story has solid worldbuilding with a genuinenly interesting magic system that constantly kept me interested in learning more.
The plot wove past and present together in a skillful way, giving just enough of a taste to keep you hungry for learning how all the pieces fit together. The first chapters were slow to get through, making it a bit harder to get into the story at first, but once the momentum picked up it kept me invested in the characters and plot to the very end. In fact, the last 150 pages I practically devoured in my desperation to see what would happen. And what a strong and deeply intriguing end it was!
The story shifts between several POV characters, giving a glimpse from different perspectives of how life is for different people in this world, and how they relate to each other. I enjoyed seeing where each character came from and what motivations drove them forward, it was especially nice to see an unconventional epic fantasy protagonist. The antagonists were also fantastic, I loved getting insight into their machinations and motivations as well. I would have liked to see more conflict or misunderstandings between the characters at times, or to see them come up against more resistance along the way, to drive character development/relationships or shake up the pacing of the story. But otherwise the character building was great and some of their stories made my heart ache in just the right way.
All in all, this is a very solid debut novel and I'm very excited to see where this story will go next!
July 30, 2025
If you're looking for epic fantasy, dragons, and characters you can truly relate to, don’t hesitate—grab this book. Castillo Negron’s prose is beautiful, and her pacing is spot-on. It’s the kind of book that’s hard to put down, yet also one you’ll want to savor.
This novel is full of striking contrasts in the best way: it’s both a sweeping tale of devastating war and an intimate story about deep friendship. It’s about awe-inspiring feats of physical prowess and about the quiet resilience required to live in a body changed by injury and amputation.
It features a potent, intriguing magic system—but magic itself is used sparingly. The way the system unfolds is fascinating, with layers of understanding revealed gradually through the story. I can’t wait for the next book to explore the questions still lingering in my mind.
If you’re curious about relationships and romance: there’s no "spice" in this installment, but there’s meaningful relationship growth and desire, across both queer and straight dynamics. Castillo Negron renders a world in turmoil and the personal bonds that make such a world bearable. She embraces nuance and imperfection, yet leaves the reader with a solid and true hope that there is something better in the future.
This novel is full of striking contrasts in the best way: it’s both a sweeping tale of devastating war and an intimate story about deep friendship. It’s about awe-inspiring feats of physical prowess and about the quiet resilience required to live in a body changed by injury and amputation.
It features a potent, intriguing magic system—but magic itself is used sparingly. The way the system unfolds is fascinating, with layers of understanding revealed gradually through the story. I can’t wait for the next book to explore the questions still lingering in my mind.
If you’re curious about relationships and romance: there’s no "spice" in this installment, but there’s meaningful relationship growth and desire, across both queer and straight dynamics. Castillo Negron renders a world in turmoil and the personal bonds that make such a world bearable. She embraces nuance and imperfection, yet leaves the reader with a solid and true hope that there is something better in the future.
July 27, 2025
[I was given a free copy of this book by the author in exchange for a review through Voracious Readers Only]
This high fantasy novel completely blew me away! I really enjoyed the unique premise right from the start, the characters and their relationship with each other are so well-developed and real despite fantastic setting, and the world-building is amazingly well done. The story is packed with action but the switching narrative among Rhu, Daxian, and Everest keeps the story going even in the quieter, more subdued parts. I really wanted to see how their respective arcs would intersect since it’s a bit of a mystery with gradual hints as to how they were connected and I could hardly put the book down. Negron is an incredible storyteller and I absolutely loved getting the opportunity to read this book.
This high fantasy novel completely blew me away! I really enjoyed the unique premise right from the start, the characters and their relationship with each other are so well-developed and real despite fantastic setting, and the world-building is amazingly well done. The story is packed with action but the switching narrative among Rhu, Daxian, and Everest keeps the story going even in the quieter, more subdued parts. I really wanted to see how their respective arcs would intersect since it’s a bit of a mystery with gradual hints as to how they were connected and I could hardly put the book down. Negron is an incredible storyteller and I absolutely loved getting the opportunity to read this book.
July 27, 2025
I received a free ARC (advanced reader copy) of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Oh boy, if you love high fantasy, The Fall Before Flight is the book for you! It is unapologetically high fantasy and not afraid of it. It has in depth world building galore, and a fascinating magic system that kept me reading late into the night to learn more about. Plus, the disabled representation in the main character, and LGBT+ representation in side characters is always refreshing to see.
It took me a bit to properly mesh with the pacing in The Fall Before Flight, as it moves between the current day plot and past events, but when it hit its stride, it did not hold back. In addition to that, Negron’s writing does lean more into the narration/description side of things, with less of a character/dialogue focus, which typically isn’t my preference when reading. This doesn't detract from the story, but did make some of the chapters harder to get through for me.
Overall, The Fall Before Flight comes across as lovingly and thoughtfully crafted, and can easily hold up to fantasy books like the Stormlight Archives. I look forward to what comes next in the series!
Oh boy, if you love high fantasy, The Fall Before Flight is the book for you! It is unapologetically high fantasy and not afraid of it. It has in depth world building galore, and a fascinating magic system that kept me reading late into the night to learn more about. Plus, the disabled representation in the main character, and LGBT+ representation in side characters is always refreshing to see.
It took me a bit to properly mesh with the pacing in The Fall Before Flight, as it moves between the current day plot and past events, but when it hit its stride, it did not hold back. In addition to that, Negron’s writing does lean more into the narration/description side of things, with less of a character/dialogue focus, which typically isn’t my preference when reading. This doesn't detract from the story, but did make some of the chapters harder to get through for me.
Overall, The Fall Before Flight comes across as lovingly and thoughtfully crafted, and can easily hold up to fantasy books like the Stormlight Archives. I look forward to what comes next in the series!
July 25, 2025
Wow. Just wow.
My heart will not be the same after this book. I will dream about this story, I can just tell…. This book is absolutely a high fantasy story, the world building is detailed. The characters are crafted masterfully. The plot is intriguing and absolutely immersive.
Take the plunge, and fly away on your bookish wings with this book!
My heart will not be the same after this book. I will dream about this story, I can just tell…. This book is absolutely a high fantasy story, the world building is detailed. The characters are crafted masterfully. The plot is intriguing and absolutely immersive.
Take the plunge, and fly away on your bookish wings with this book!
August 16, 2025
I received an ARC of this book but this represents my honest opinion.
I said no more ARCs. I read a description of this book. And then I said OK, one more. And I'm so glad I did. This was such a fun read. And unlike a lot of books in this genre, the writing and characters felt mature when they needed to be.
There are a few main characters, but you get the deepest look into three characters. The book takes you through years of events through their eyes. Yes, time jumps, and yes, multiple POVs. But this was one of those books where I didn't get impatient at one person's section and want to move to the next; each one was a rich character whose story had me rooting for them.
I also loved the way the different stories pulled together. I didn't know how they would in the beginning but they didn't come out of left field either. Instead they unfurled with the same excellent story- telling that marks the rest of the book.
For those who have triggers, there is a component of slavery of a species here. There's also war, violence, and a permanent injury. There's a lot of trauma, but also healing. There is one unpleasant trope about lgbt romances in non-lgbt books that this book falls very close to, but i believe there are signs that the story will step a little away from that in the next book. I'm hopeful on that.
The above trope is my only real complaint about this book.
I said no more ARCs. I read a description of this book. And then I said OK, one more. And I'm so glad I did. This was such a fun read. And unlike a lot of books in this genre, the writing and characters felt mature when they needed to be.
There are a few main characters, but you get the deepest look into three characters. The book takes you through years of events through their eyes. Yes, time jumps, and yes, multiple POVs. But this was one of those books where I didn't get impatient at one person's section and want to move to the next; each one was a rich character whose story had me rooting for them.
I also loved the way the different stories pulled together. I didn't know how they would in the beginning but they didn't come out of left field either. Instead they unfurled with the same excellent story- telling that marks the rest of the book.
For those who have triggers, there is a component of slavery of a species here. There's also war, violence, and a permanent injury. There's a lot of trauma, but also healing. There is one unpleasant trope about lgbt romances in non-lgbt books that this book falls very close to, but i believe there are signs that the story will step a little away from that in the next book. I'm hopeful on that.
The above trope is my only real complaint about this book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 29, 2025
📚✨ The Fall Before Flight by Kristine Castillo Negron
⭐️ 5/5 | 🏔️ 1/5
This high fantasy novel completely swept me away—from the very first chapter, I knew I was in for something special.
Negron delivers a brilliantly crafted, intelligent story that respects its reader while pulling them into a world full of mystery, heart, and beautifully layered characters. The world-building is expansive without being overwhelming, and the way the story shifts between Rhu, Daxian, and Everest is done with such skill that I was glued to the page even during the quieter moments. Each arc brings something unique to the table, and the slow reveal of how they all connect was absolutely masterful.
It's rare to find a fantasy novel that blends action, character depth, and literary elegance so effortlessly—but The Fall Before Flight does exactly that. Negron is a true storyteller, and I’m beyond glad I got to experience this journey.
🌀 Reading mood: When you want something immersive, smart, and a little mysterious that will leave you thinking even after the last page.
⭐️ 5/5 | 🏔️ 1/5
This high fantasy novel completely swept me away—from the very first chapter, I knew I was in for something special.
Negron delivers a brilliantly crafted, intelligent story that respects its reader while pulling them into a world full of mystery, heart, and beautifully layered characters. The world-building is expansive without being overwhelming, and the way the story shifts between Rhu, Daxian, and Everest is done with such skill that I was glued to the page even during the quieter moments. Each arc brings something unique to the table, and the slow reveal of how they all connect was absolutely masterful.
It's rare to find a fantasy novel that blends action, character depth, and literary elegance so effortlessly—but The Fall Before Flight does exactly that. Negron is a true storyteller, and I’m beyond glad I got to experience this journey.
🌀 Reading mood: When you want something immersive, smart, and a little mysterious that will leave you thinking even after the last page.
September 2, 2025
This novel is a truly captivating read. Too often, fantasy worlds overlook or sideline characters with differences, but here, each hero’s strength, complexity, and humanity shine through. The characters are not defined by limitation — instead, Castillo Negron paints portraits of what courage and resilience truly look like.
Also woven through the novel is the power of friendship. The relationships, rooted in trust, support, and love, are heartfelt and help drive the characters forward.
Lastly, the sweeping battles and vivid world draw the reader in from the first page. But perhaps the greatest strength of this book is how it inspires readers to believe in the magic within themselves. Beyond the adventure and fantasy, the story leaves you with a sense of wonder, hope, and empowerment.
Also woven through the novel is the power of friendship. The relationships, rooted in trust, support, and love, are heartfelt and help drive the characters forward.
Lastly, the sweeping battles and vivid world draw the reader in from the first page. But perhaps the greatest strength of this book is how it inspires readers to believe in the magic within themselves. Beyond the adventure and fantasy, the story leaves you with a sense of wonder, hope, and empowerment.
July 7, 2025
I can not even begin to tell you the impact that this book has had on me. It was so much more than what I thought it would be. The characters, their story the way they learn and grow and the all around story of the book was purely amazing! The way this book has made me feel is something I dont always get to feel while reading, and I love it. It was perfectly wriiten and the characters are so life like , it encompasses you into everthing going on. This book will always have a special place in my heart, and I want it to have a space on bookshelf so I can reread it! I truly loved it. You will not regret picking this book up. I will be sitting here waiting on the next book that will be just as captivating I am sure. I am so thankful that I have been able to read this!!
July 30, 2025
Immersive storytelling, detailed world building and complex characters who preserve with boldness, grit and determination. If you are looking for a high epic fantasy this would be the story for you. This is not a quick read and may take a moment to get completely enthralled in the story, but chapter 1 does a good job sucking you right in and before you know it you are in for the journey of your life seeing things through the eyes of the various characters POVs.
Get ready for an EPIC Adventure.
Get ready for an EPIC Adventure.
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August 30, 2025I received this book as an ARC copy. While the story started slowly, about half way through the puzzle pieces were coming together. I didn't know it was a series, but I'm glad it is. A bit frustrated with the characters toward the end, for all the deep meaningful friendships depicted early on, their comprehension wasn't there. Overall great read, would definitely recommend
July 27, 2025
I got an ARC copy of this book. I thought it was very slow to start with. Once you get quite a few chapters in it was ok. There is a lot of world building going between past and present at the start of the book.
July 13, 2025
I got an ARC copy of this book. I thought it started of kind of slow as it took a bit to find out where she was to start with. I went between past and present to start off in the book. Once you got a few chapters in that wasn't too bad. You find out how all of the characters preserve in struggles and what has made them the way they are. It was intriguing how the pieces fit together the more you read.
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