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Fallen City Duology #2
Chosen Son
Not yet published
Expected 15 Dec 26The war is just beginning.
When the city fell, Maris lost everything—her freedom, her future, and the man she loved. Now, with Luca trapped behind the gates of Isara, she makes a choice that will change her life forever: to don the armor of the enemy and march back into the heart of the city she was forced to flee. Every step brings her closer to Luca, but also deeper into the blood-soaked machine of war.
Inside Isara’s walls, Luca wrestles with a truth more dangerous than any sword. Once the symbol of the Loyal Legion, he has lost the thing he was truly fighting for—Maris. The shift of the war has left him to question whether he has become a pawn of the gods, and with betrayal lurking in every shadow, Luca must decide who he is: the dutiful soldier forged by rebellion, or the man willing to risk everything for love.
Across battlefields and through broken temples, Maris and Luca’s treacherous paths through Isara are set to collide. And when the gods demand sacrifice, it comes in a form no one could have expected.
When the city fell, Maris lost everything—her freedom, her future, and the man she loved. Now, with Luca trapped behind the gates of Isara, she makes a choice that will change her life forever: to don the armor of the enemy and march back into the heart of the city she was forced to flee. Every step brings her closer to Luca, but also deeper into the blood-soaked machine of war.
Inside Isara’s walls, Luca wrestles with a truth more dangerous than any sword. Once the symbol of the Loyal Legion, he has lost the thing he was truly fighting for—Maris. The shift of the war has left him to question whether he has become a pawn of the gods, and with betrayal lurking in every shadow, Luca must decide who he is: the dutiful soldier forged by rebellion, or the man willing to risk everything for love.
Across battlefields and through broken temples, Maris and Luca’s treacherous paths through Isara are set to collide. And when the gods demand sacrifice, it comes in a form no one could have expected.
352 pages, Hardcover
Expected publication December 15, 2026
13244 people want to read
About the author
Adrienne Young
24 books18.5k followersAdrienne Young is the New York Times and international bestselling author of the Sky and Sea duology, the Fable series, and Spells for Forgetting. When she’s not writing, you can find Adrienne on her yoga mat, on a walk in the woods, or planning her next travel adventure. She lives and writes in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina.
For information on release, appearances, ARCs, giveaways, and exclusive content, sign up for the newsletter at https://adrienneyoungbooks.com/
Instagram: @adrienneyoungbooks
For information on release, appearances, ARCs, giveaways, and exclusive content, sign up for the newsletter at https://adrienneyoungbooks.com/
Instagram: @adrienneyoungbooks
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Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews
Want to Read
January 7, 2026⋅˚₊‧ ୨ 𝒫𝓇𝑒-𝓇𝑒𝒶𝒹 (1/7/2026): ୧ ‧₊˚ ⋅ The book doesn’t come out for another 10 months and I already need this like I need air🥹
Want to Read
May 4, 2026There is love and then there is duty. Love is like war--very easy to begin but very hard to stop.
Wow wow wow! My day just became even better when I saw this available. I was patiently awaiting for this. I remember when I read Fallen city, I fell in love with the Greco-Roman inspired world and the rebellion. The love story was very much. subplot but it took me by surprise and it was so well done.. I couldn't stop thinking about it for a long time. And now.. here we are with a conclusion.
This will be my priority next month!
Many thanks to NetGalley, St. Martins Press/Saturday Books and the author, Adrienne Young for an early ARC.
Publication date: December 15, 2026
Wow wow wow! My day just became even better when I saw this available. I was patiently awaiting for this. I remember when I read Fallen city, I fell in love with the Greco-Roman inspired world and the rebellion. The love story was very much. subplot but it took me by surprise and it was so well done.. I couldn't stop thinking about it for a long time. And now.. here we are with a conclusion.
This will be my priority next month!
Many thanks to NetGalley, St. Martins Press/Saturday Books and the author, Adrienne Young for an early ARC.
Publication date: December 15, 2026
May 5, 2026
A gritty follow up to the first book, with even higher stakes.
While opinions were divided on ‘Fallen City’, for me, I had instantly fallen in step with the characters and the unusual narrative that jumped around. This isn’t a romance first story, but in a way historical fiction with minor (minor!) fantasy elements as we witness war from different angles. A bonus for me was also getting Maris and Luca’s tragic love story told.
‘Chosen Son’ is written in a linear fashion this time, though still with POV’s alternating between the main characters.
Maris is returning, fighting to get back to Luca, while Luca is fighting to end the war, to play his role (all while believing Maris is away and safe). There’s this push and pull, a suspense, that kept me reading as I learned pieces of information from both characters, not knowing how their decisions would affect the other upon collision. Knowing about the fire wine, while knowing Maris would be present? My stomach was in knots.
I found this sequel to be more action packed, more emotionally driving than the first, which had more down times with politics and narration since half the book was spent looking into the past. Here we get major transformations in characters, Maris in a sense went through an entire metamorphosis. The atmosphere was brutal, I felt the exhaustion of the battles taking place, and the descriptions of the violence and fighting were well done. (Sometimes it’s hard to picture fight scenes as the intensity they’re meant to be)
I had no idea how this was going to end, up until the ending itself. There were so many ways the author could have taken with the conclusion, which had me glued to my kindle, but it was handled wonderfully.
Théo seriously is my fave in this😭 The bond between him and Maris was so sweet.
*ARC courtesy of netgalley*
While opinions were divided on ‘Fallen City’, for me, I had instantly fallen in step with the characters and the unusual narrative that jumped around. This isn’t a romance first story, but in a way historical fiction with minor (minor!) fantasy elements as we witness war from different angles. A bonus for me was also getting Maris and Luca’s tragic love story told.
‘Chosen Son’ is written in a linear fashion this time, though still with POV’s alternating between the main characters.
Maris is returning, fighting to get back to Luca, while Luca is fighting to end the war, to play his role (all while believing Maris is away and safe). There’s this push and pull, a suspense, that kept me reading as I learned pieces of information from both characters, not knowing how their decisions would affect the other upon collision. Knowing about the fire wine, while knowing Maris would be present? My stomach was in knots.
I found this sequel to be more action packed, more emotionally driving than the first, which had more down times with politics and narration since half the book was spent looking into the past. Here we get major transformations in characters, Maris in a sense went through an entire metamorphosis. The atmosphere was brutal, I felt the exhaustion of the battles taking place, and the descriptions of the violence and fighting were well done. (Sometimes it’s hard to picture fight scenes as the intensity they’re meant to be)
I had no idea how this was going to end, up until the ending itself. There were so many ways the author could have taken with the conclusion, which had me glued to my kindle, but it was handled wonderfully.
Théo seriously is my fave in this😭 The bond between him and Maris was so sweet.
*ARC courtesy of netgalley*
May 11, 2026
Thanks to Netgalley, Saturday Books and Adrienene Young for the eARC. This is an honest, profound, and personal review.
When I finished Fallen City as a five-star read last week and realized that its sequel was a Read Now title on NetGalley, it felt like fate. Being able to dive right into the sequel instead of waiting another six or seven months? THANK YOU SO MUCH.
The story picks up right where the Fairyloot bonus epilogue left off. The annotations in that bonus epilogue hinted at secrets and revelations. And rightly so! But I wasn’t prepared for the first big reveal to already happen in Chapter 1. And what a reveal it is! It makes so much sense, yet I had absolutely no clue until it happened!
I really liked how the tables were turned: Maris was the one in the siege camp, while Luca was in the Citadel. Seeing Maris evolve from a tender-hearted woman, whose only scars were internal and whose only calluses came from writing, into a formidable warrior was exquisite—a triumph against every gender stereotype. Seeing Luca as a scientist was just as delightful, as it reflects his true essence and the intellectual core we caught a glimpse of in the "before" timeline of book 1.
While I mourned the loss of the non-linear timelines that made book one a masterpiece, the dual POV in a single timeline allowed for a different kind of tension. Seeing the story through both their eyes while they were apart created a bittersweet distance. We watch them fighting their own separate battles while simultaneously fighting for each other. The irony of Luca being relieved that Maris isn't seeing the horrors of war, while she is actually experiencing them firsthand, was brilliantly executed. The realization that she was the victim of his most horrific inventions while he thought she was safe elsewhere added a devastating layer to their connection.
Although the first book was heavy on politics—one of my personal highlights, even if it wasn’t for everyone—this sequel might appeal more to the average reader. The story is action-packed, the stakes are high, and the fear of losing lives hits harder than ever! One scene in particular, around the 75% mark, left me breathless and with tears in my eyes.
However, the story didn’t quite live up to book 1—partly because of the shift in tone resulting from the linear narrative and the generally gloomier atmosphere due to the increased focus on combat—but also because there were a few things that kept pulling me out of the story. Some aspects of the narrative didn't quite add up. For one thing, the resolution at the end of Book 1 seemed to be glossed over. The agreement was that people could leave the city in exchange for the Godsblood, yet the citizens departed without the priestess ever being handed over. That confused me right from the start, and kept me wondering why the invaders were reiterating their demand for her, especially since they already had the upper hand and could have taken the city back then. What struck me as even stranger was the strategic logic regarding the fleeing citizens. It felt jarring that the invasion force would so readily allow people who had just fled the city to join their ranks. Since they left willingly and weren't exiled, they shouldn't have any animosity toward the city—they only fled to escape the impending invasion. Their loyalty would be highly suspect, so why on earth let them join you at the risk of being betrayed? In a high-stakes military setting, this felt like a glaring strategic oversight that didn't quite align with the otherwise clever political world-building.
But if you can overlook these points, this is a great follow-up. I loved how the mystery of the gods unfolded. Even when they took a backseat, they remained a powerful driving force that brought the story full circle. Combined with an ending that hit every mark and masterful foreshadowing throughout, it’s an absolutely devastatingly beautiful conclusion.
Overall, a very strong 4-star read. While I missed the complex timelines of the first book, the emotional payoff was well worth the wait. Despite the minor strategic inconsistencies, it’s a fast-paced, action-filled finale that brings this unique duology to a deeply satisfying close. It is a testament to how much a character can evolve when pushed to their limits—a powerful story about healing, growth, and finding one's true essence amidst the ruins.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
🏛️ Roman Empire-inspired
⏳ Dual POV
⚔️ Star-crossed Lovers
⚖️ Political Warfare
🏹 Female Growth Arc
When I finished Fallen City as a five-star read last week and realized that its sequel was a Read Now title on NetGalley, it felt like fate. Being able to dive right into the sequel instead of waiting another six or seven months? THANK YOU SO MUCH.
The story picks up right where the Fairyloot bonus epilogue left off. The annotations in that bonus epilogue hinted at secrets and revelations. And rightly so! But I wasn’t prepared for the first big reveal to already happen in Chapter 1. And what a reveal it is! It makes so much sense, yet I had absolutely no clue until it happened!
I really liked how the tables were turned: Maris was the one in the siege camp, while Luca was in the Citadel. Seeing Maris evolve from a tender-hearted woman, whose only scars were internal and whose only calluses came from writing, into a formidable warrior was exquisite—a triumph against every gender stereotype. Seeing Luca as a scientist was just as delightful, as it reflects his true essence and the intellectual core we caught a glimpse of in the "before" timeline of book 1.
While I mourned the loss of the non-linear timelines that made book one a masterpiece, the dual POV in a single timeline allowed for a different kind of tension. Seeing the story through both their eyes while they were apart created a bittersweet distance. We watch them fighting their own separate battles while simultaneously fighting for each other. The irony of Luca being relieved that Maris isn't seeing the horrors of war, while she is actually experiencing them firsthand, was brilliantly executed. The realization that she was the victim of his most horrific inventions while he thought she was safe elsewhere added a devastating layer to their connection.
Although the first book was heavy on politics—one of my personal highlights, even if it wasn’t for everyone—this sequel might appeal more to the average reader. The story is action-packed, the stakes are high, and the fear of losing lives hits harder than ever! One scene in particular, around the 75% mark, left me breathless and with tears in my eyes.
However, the story didn’t quite live up to book 1—partly because of the shift in tone resulting from the linear narrative and the generally gloomier atmosphere due to the increased focus on combat—but also because there were a few things that kept pulling me out of the story. Some aspects of the narrative didn't quite add up. For one thing, the resolution at the end of Book 1 seemed to be glossed over. The agreement was that people could leave the city in exchange for the Godsblood, yet the citizens departed without the priestess ever being handed over. That confused me right from the start, and kept me wondering why the invaders were reiterating their demand for her, especially since they already had the upper hand and could have taken the city back then. What struck me as even stranger was the strategic logic regarding the fleeing citizens. It felt jarring that the invasion force would so readily allow people who had just fled the city to join their ranks. Since they left willingly and weren't exiled, they shouldn't have any animosity toward the city—they only fled to escape the impending invasion. Their loyalty would be highly suspect, so why on earth let them join you at the risk of being betrayed? In a high-stakes military setting, this felt like a glaring strategic oversight that didn't quite align with the otherwise clever political world-building.
But if you can overlook these points, this is a great follow-up. I loved how the mystery of the gods unfolded. Even when they took a backseat, they remained a powerful driving force that brought the story full circle. Combined with an ending that hit every mark and masterful foreshadowing throughout, it’s an absolutely devastatingly beautiful conclusion.
Overall, a very strong 4-star read. While I missed the complex timelines of the first book, the emotional payoff was well worth the wait. Despite the minor strategic inconsistencies, it’s a fast-paced, action-filled finale that brings this unique duology to a deeply satisfying close. It is a testament to how much a character can evolve when pushed to their limits—a powerful story about healing, growth, and finding one's true essence amidst the ruins.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
🏛️ Roman Empire-inspired
⏳ Dual POV
⚔️ Star-crossed Lovers
⚖️ Political Warfare
🏹 Female Growth Arc
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
There are stories that leave a deep imprint on your heart and will remain with you throughout the years, and this is one of them.
”I am your fate. And you are mine.”
★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ 6 stars
This duology is like if Divine Rivals was adult instead of YA; it reminds me of my reading experience of Wild Reverence.
*The biggest thank you to NetGalley, St. Martin’s Press, and Adrienne Young for this uncorrected ARC.
🏛️𓏢⋆༺𓆩⚔𓆪༻⋆🏛️𓏢🏛️𓏢⋆༺𓆩⚔𓆪༻⋆🏛️𓏢
We pick up right where we left off, with Maris and Luca on opposing sides of the war. Maris and Théo have joined the Valshadi legion, and Luca remains Centurion for the New Legion— and their fates will intersect at just the right moment.
🏛️𓏢⋆༺𓆩⚔𓆪༻⋆🏛️𓏢🏛️𓏢⋆༺𓆩⚔𓆪༻⋆🏛️𓏢
We get:
🏺Political corruption
🏺Love split by two sides of a war
🏺Gods using humans as pawns
🏺Found family
🏺Greco-Roman themes
°˖➴ I am absolutely obsessed with this book and in awe of what Young was able to accomplish. I devoured this book so quickly and am already excited to reread the duology in the future.
The story really revolves around the dehumanization that war causes and what people are willing to do when everything is at stake. Luca’s character reminded me of Oppenheimer in a way with the fire wine: creating something horrible and then regretting it after seeing the consequences. I absolutely loved how he handled it; it made his character feel even more complex as he struggled with his decisions on his side of the war.
°˖➴ I LOVE Théo— he must be protected at all costs. His character is fantastic, and his backstory had me shocked. It tied everything together perfectly.
Maris’s character arc is exactly what I’m looking for in fantasy. She became a legionairre and was strong in mind and body, but it wasn’t rubbed in our faces like it so often is with FMCs being a badass character. I loved her and her connection with Aeryn.
°˖➴ I also was so pleased with Luca’s arc in this story; it feels like he’s exactly where he belongs.
Aeryn and Vale were such strong side characters as well. The trade at the end had me tearing up.
The romance is just fantastic; I am so impressed with everything Young did with Maris and Luca.
🏛️𓏢⋆༺𓆩⚔𓆪༻⋆🏛️𓏢🏛️𓏢⋆༺𓆩⚔𓆪༻⋆🏛️𓏢
This is expert level writing. Everything is artfully done, the prose are beautiful. It just feels so intricate and thoughtful. I haven’t read many books that feel this way, and it was such a treat. I cannot recommend this duology enough.
”I am your fate. And you are mine.”
★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ 6 stars
This duology is like if Divine Rivals was adult instead of YA; it reminds me of my reading experience of Wild Reverence.
*The biggest thank you to NetGalley, St. Martin’s Press, and Adrienne Young for this uncorrected ARC.
🏛️𓏢⋆༺𓆩⚔𓆪༻⋆🏛️𓏢🏛️𓏢⋆༺𓆩⚔𓆪༻⋆🏛️𓏢
We pick up right where we left off, with Maris and Luca on opposing sides of the war. Maris and Théo have joined the Valshadi legion, and Luca remains Centurion for the New Legion— and their fates will intersect at just the right moment.
🏛️𓏢⋆༺𓆩⚔𓆪༻⋆🏛️𓏢🏛️𓏢⋆༺𓆩⚔𓆪༻⋆🏛️𓏢
We get:
🏺Political corruption
🏺Love split by two sides of a war
🏺Gods using humans as pawns
🏺Found family
🏺Greco-Roman themes
°˖➴ I am absolutely obsessed with this book and in awe of what Young was able to accomplish. I devoured this book so quickly and am already excited to reread the duology in the future.
The story really revolves around the dehumanization that war causes and what people are willing to do when everything is at stake. Luca’s character reminded me of Oppenheimer in a way with the fire wine: creating something horrible and then regretting it after seeing the consequences. I absolutely loved how he handled it; it made his character feel even more complex as he struggled with his decisions on his side of the war.
°˖➴ I LOVE Théo— he must be protected at all costs. His character is fantastic, and his backstory had me shocked. It tied everything together perfectly.
Maris’s character arc is exactly what I’m looking for in fantasy. She became a legionairre and was strong in mind and body, but it wasn’t rubbed in our faces like it so often is with FMCs being a badass character. I loved her and her connection with Aeryn.
°˖➴ I also was so pleased with Luca’s arc in this story; it feels like he’s exactly where he belongs.
Aeryn and Vale were such strong side characters as well. The trade at the end had me tearing up.
The romance is just fantastic; I am so impressed with everything Young did with Maris and Luca.
🏛️𓏢⋆༺𓆩⚔𓆪༻⋆🏛️𓏢🏛️𓏢⋆༺𓆩⚔𓆪༻⋆🏛️𓏢
This is expert level writing. Everything is artfully done, the prose are beautiful. It just feels so intricate and thoughtful. I haven’t read many books that feel this way, and it was such a treat. I cannot recommend this duology enough.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Chosen Son by Adrienne Young
It’s probably no surprise at this point how much I love Adrienne Young’s books. Fallen City was one of my top reads last year, so I was immediately sat for book two.
This picks up right where Fallen City ended and the tension is immediate. Maris and Luca are on opposite sides of the war, constantly moving toward each other while everything around them is falling apart, and the alternating POVs made it impossible to stop reading.
I think what worked so much better for me in this one was how emotional everything felt alongside the politics. This time the stakes actually felt personal to me instead of just political. Every choice hurt, every reunion felt earned, and even the sacrifices actually hit this time.
The story really explores the dehumanization that war causes and what people are willing to do when everything is at stake. Luca especially felt so layered because you can see him struggling with the consequences of the choices he’s made throughout the war, and I loved how conflicted and human that made him feel.
Maris really grew into herself in this book too. She’s exhausted, grieving, angry, and still keeps pushing forward even when she’s terrified. Watching her slowly trust herself and become stronger was one of my favorite parts.
And Luca…
that man SUFFERED.
The atmosphere in this book feels so heavy in the best way possible. War, betrayal, gods meddling in everything, shifting loyalties, people trying to survive impossible choices — it just keeps building until the ending completely wrecks you.
Also:
“The darkness was not soft…”
actually ruined my emotional stability for a bit.
Adrienne Young’s writing always has this lyrical feeling to it without making the story feel slow, and I flew through this way faster than I expected. Once I started reading, I genuinely could not put it down.
If you like:
⚔️ war-torn fantasy
🖤 forbidden romance
👑 political tension
🔥 emotionally intense relationships
✨ dual POV
🌙 gods & fate themes
⚡ high-stakes fantasy worlds
you’ll probably devour this too.
Thank you NetGalley & St. Martin's Press for the ARC!
It’s probably no surprise at this point how much I love Adrienne Young’s books. Fallen City was one of my top reads last year, so I was immediately sat for book two.
This picks up right where Fallen City ended and the tension is immediate. Maris and Luca are on opposite sides of the war, constantly moving toward each other while everything around them is falling apart, and the alternating POVs made it impossible to stop reading.
I think what worked so much better for me in this one was how emotional everything felt alongside the politics. This time the stakes actually felt personal to me instead of just political. Every choice hurt, every reunion felt earned, and even the sacrifices actually hit this time.
The story really explores the dehumanization that war causes and what people are willing to do when everything is at stake. Luca especially felt so layered because you can see him struggling with the consequences of the choices he’s made throughout the war, and I loved how conflicted and human that made him feel.
Maris really grew into herself in this book too. She’s exhausted, grieving, angry, and still keeps pushing forward even when she’s terrified. Watching her slowly trust herself and become stronger was one of my favorite parts.
And Luca…
that man SUFFERED.
The atmosphere in this book feels so heavy in the best way possible. War, betrayal, gods meddling in everything, shifting loyalties, people trying to survive impossible choices — it just keeps building until the ending completely wrecks you.
Also:
“The darkness was not soft…”
actually ruined my emotional stability for a bit.
Adrienne Young’s writing always has this lyrical feeling to it without making the story feel slow, and I flew through this way faster than I expected. Once I started reading, I genuinely could not put it down.
If you like:
⚔️ war-torn fantasy
🖤 forbidden romance
👑 political tension
🔥 emotionally intense relationships
✨ dual POV
🌙 gods & fate themes
⚡ high-stakes fantasy worlds
you’ll probably devour this too.
Thank you NetGalley & St. Martin's Press for the ARC!
Review of advance copy received from Edelweiss+
4.5 ☆ (rounded up)
Thank you so much Saturday and St. Martins Press for an eARC in exchange for an honest review.
It’s to no one’s surprise just how much I love Adrienne Young and her books. Fallen City last year was one of my top reads. I loved the world, I loved Luca and Maris, and I was impatiently awaiting to see what book two would bring on and how their story would unfold.
Chosen Son picks right back up where it was left off. Maris made a commitment at the end of Fallen City and we follow her through that choice and the implications of that, and Luca is left with leading the New Legion from where he was in Fallen City.
She’s worked dry and thin but developing new facets of herself that in the long run make her stronger, more sound, and also more directly in harms way. Throughout the entirety of it all she has one goal in mind…Luca. And she will do anything to get back to him. Luca is left with trying to cycle through defending Isara and whats left of the New Legion. He is at war within himself thinking he has done whats best for Maris, but little does he know what she has in store.
With unfolding new revelations and twists, and this book being around the 350 page mark, this poses as a faster paced book. It’s to the point, engaging, and written with Adrienne’s luscious storytelling. I think this was a masterfull duology that was original and captivating . With alluring character dynamics, themes that are relatable to todays world, a story about war and it's implications on society, but and at the center one with love, hope, choice, and healing. I loved every second of this and sad to see this world come to close. I will definetly be rereading again
Thank you so much Saturday and St. Martins Press for an eARC in exchange for an honest review.
It’s to no one’s surprise just how much I love Adrienne Young and her books. Fallen City last year was one of my top reads. I loved the world, I loved Luca and Maris, and I was impatiently awaiting to see what book two would bring on and how their story would unfold.
Chosen Son picks right back up where it was left off. Maris made a commitment at the end of Fallen City and we follow her through that choice and the implications of that, and Luca is left with leading the New Legion from where he was in Fallen City.
She’s worked dry and thin but developing new facets of herself that in the long run make her stronger, more sound, and also more directly in harms way. Throughout the entirety of it all she has one goal in mind…Luca. And she will do anything to get back to him. Luca is left with trying to cycle through defending Isara and whats left of the New Legion. He is at war within himself thinking he has done whats best for Maris, but little does he know what she has in store.
With unfolding new revelations and twists, and this book being around the 350 page mark, this poses as a faster paced book. It’s to the point, engaging, and written with Adrienne’s luscious storytelling. I think this was a masterfull duology that was original and captivating . With alluring character dynamics, themes that are relatable to todays world, a story about war and it's implications on society, but and at the center one with love, hope, choice, and healing. I loved every second of this and sad to see this world come to close. I will definetly be rereading again
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thank you to St. Martin's Press and NetGalley for a copy of this eARC!
Full disclosure: when I finished "Fallen City", the first installment of this duology, I had decidedly mixed feelings. Like many others, my main gripe was with the pacing and the erratic, nonlinear timeline. I wasn't completely sold on Maris's and Luca's romance either, but what I DID like - the lovely writing, the political machinations, and that ending - has compelled me enough to want to read the sequel.
"Chosen Son" is a satisfying conclusion. We pick up right where the previous book ends and - no more jumping between past and present here - we get nonstop action complemented by Adrienne Young's vibrant writing. Both Maris and Luca embark on emotional character journeys, grappling with the will of the gods (is being marked by the gods truly a blessing?) and personal agency, and while it was all beautifully written...I just wish I cared more. I can't pinpoint exactly what causes my detachment from these two characters (and I couldn't in the first installment either), who were unfortunately the two main viewpoints, but I found myself wanting to know more about Theo. In any case, I still had a great time and was very satisfied with the ending.
Full disclosure: when I finished "Fallen City", the first installment of this duology, I had decidedly mixed feelings. Like many others, my main gripe was with the pacing and the erratic, nonlinear timeline. I wasn't completely sold on Maris's and Luca's romance either, but what I DID like - the lovely writing, the political machinations, and that ending - has compelled me enough to want to read the sequel.
"Chosen Son" is a satisfying conclusion. We pick up right where the previous book ends and - no more jumping between past and present here - we get nonstop action complemented by Adrienne Young's vibrant writing. Both Maris and Luca embark on emotional character journeys, grappling with the will of the gods (is being marked by the gods truly a blessing?) and personal agency, and while it was all beautifully written...I just wish I cared more. I can't pinpoint exactly what causes my detachment from these two characters (and I couldn't in the first installment either), who were unfortunately the two main viewpoints, but I found myself wanting to know more about Theo. In any case, I still had a great time and was very satisfied with the ending.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Going into Chosen Son, I was hesitant. Book one was heavy on the politics.
95% strategy and only crumbs of forbidden romance. But it only took one line from Luca “I end with her” and I was already crawling back for book two.
The stakes are immediately high: war, manipulation, pain, and shifting loyalties drive the story.
“There was a very thin line that separated mercy and humanity from what it actually took to survive.”
Having Luca and Maris on opposite sides of the war, with the POV constantly shifting between them, had the tension dialled all the way up. “Every part of me that matters, every part that’s real, you’re taking with you”.I couldn’t put it down.
And when they finally find their way back to each other? Cue the tears. “The darkness was not soft…” absolutely broke me.
Every decision and sacrifice made
By Luca and Maris builds toward an ending I was desperately hoping for, one they truly earned and I’m so glad they got it!
“Damn the gods… I am your fate, and you are mine.”
Thank you NetGalley for the e-arc 3.5 star rounded up
95% strategy and only crumbs of forbidden romance. But it only took one line from Luca “I end with her” and I was already crawling back for book two.
The stakes are immediately high: war, manipulation, pain, and shifting loyalties drive the story.
“There was a very thin line that separated mercy and humanity from what it actually took to survive.”
Having Luca and Maris on opposite sides of the war, with the POV constantly shifting between them, had the tension dialled all the way up. “Every part of me that matters, every part that’s real, you’re taking with you”.I couldn’t put it down.
And when they finally find their way back to each other? Cue the tears. “The darkness was not soft…” absolutely broke me.
Every decision and sacrifice made
By Luca and Maris builds toward an ending I was desperately hoping for, one they truly earned and I’m so glad they got it!
“Damn the gods… I am your fate, and you are mine.”
Thank you NetGalley for the e-arc 3.5 star rounded up
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
5 stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Chosen Son was such a gripping read from start to finish. The story is intense, emotional, and packed with tension that keeps you fully invested. The characters feel layered and complex, with strong relationships and enough conflict to keep the plot moving at a great pace.
There’s a darker edge to this one that adds so much depth, balanced with emotional moments that actually hit. The writing keeps things engaging, and it’s one of those books where you keep telling yourself “just one more chapter” and suddenly it’s 2 a.m.
Definitely recommend if you enjoy darker romance, high stakes, and characters who keep you emotionally invested the whole way through.
As always, thank you NetGalley for the ARC!! I was so excited for it!
Chosen Son was such a gripping read from start to finish. The story is intense, emotional, and packed with tension that keeps you fully invested. The characters feel layered and complex, with strong relationships and enough conflict to keep the plot moving at a great pace.
There’s a darker edge to this one that adds so much depth, balanced with emotional moments that actually hit. The writing keeps things engaging, and it’s one of those books where you keep telling yourself “just one more chapter” and suddenly it’s 2 a.m.
Definitely recommend if you enjoy darker romance, high stakes, and characters who keep you emotionally invested the whole way through.
As always, thank you NetGalley for the ARC!! I was so excited for it!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
3.5 stars
Thank you to NetGalley for an advanced copy of Chosen Son by Adrienne Young in exchange for my honest review.
First off, I want to say that Adrienne Young is a fantastic writer and the prose in all of her stories is beautiful. I love her writing.
There was an improvement in this sequel compared to the first book where the story had two POVs and then two different timelines. Chosen Son only had the two POV told in the same timeline and that was a huge improvement and had me significantly less confused.
That being said, I had a difficult time connecting to the two main characters in this story and found myself only really caring about Theo. I was satisfied with the ending and enjoyed the politics of the story more than I enjoyed the romance.
Thank you to NetGalley for an advanced copy of Chosen Son by Adrienne Young in exchange for my honest review.
First off, I want to say that Adrienne Young is a fantastic writer and the prose in all of her stories is beautiful. I love her writing.
There was an improvement in this sequel compared to the first book where the story had two POVs and then two different timelines. Chosen Son only had the two POV told in the same timeline and that was a huge improvement and had me significantly less confused.
That being said, I had a difficult time connecting to the two main characters in this story and found myself only really caring about Theo. I was satisfied with the ending and enjoyed the politics of the story more than I enjoyed the romance.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thank you to Netgalley and St. Martin's Press and Saturday Books for the arc of this book. Chosen Son is the second book in the Fallen City Duology by Adrienne Young. This book is set in a Greco Roman inspired world during a rebellion. This book picks up right where the last book left off. Our main characters are still separated at the start of this book. The book is linear in timeline but it told from the dual point of views of Maris and Luca. This book moved much quicker than book one since the world was already established. I read this book in one afternoon, I absolutely loved this book. I recommend giving both books a try. I look forward to reading the next book by this author.
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May 4, 2026I admit, during the first book, I was super confused with the jumping back and forth between characters and time. I managed to figure it out, but it was rough. I loved the story, the Roman I guess feel of it.
Book 2 really swept me in and kept me going. I loved the growth Maris showed and I adore her and Luca.
I suck at these kind of reviews, so this is pretty short. I did really enjoy the book and how the author manage to wrap it up and have a great ending.
Book 2 really swept me in and kept me going. I loved the growth Maris showed and I adore her and Luca.
I suck at these kind of reviews, so this is pretty short. I did really enjoy the book and how the author manage to wrap it up and have a great ending.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Fallen City was one of my favorite reads last year and I was very excited to see what happens next. Chosen Son immediately picks back up from the events of the first book. There is a lot more high stakes with the conflict escalating and I loved having the two point of views to see the events and thoughts on both sides. While Maris and Luca's story has come to an end, I would not mind reading more about the other supporting characters.
May 10, 2026
Publishing December 15, In the conclusion to the Fallen City series, this book wrecked me just as much as the first. We pick up right where Maris and Luca left off as the war for the city continues. We are in the present this time as they try to make their way back together. I loved the theme of science versus religion that really came through in this one more than the first. I’d highly recommend the entire series! Thank you to NetGalley for this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
May 11, 2026
Chosen Son picked up right where fallen city left off. I enjoyed getting both our MC’s pov’s again. With them being on opposite sides of the war, the stakes are high. It is action packed and I loved seeing Maris grow and become strong and put her faith in herself. My heart broke for Luca. I had no idea where this ending was going but I couldn’t image any other ending for this story. A great conclusion to a beautiful duology! Thank you NetGalley for the arc!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Chosen Son, the sequel to Fallen City, picks up right where we left off with Maris and Theo infiltrating the enemy army to sneak back into the city and Luca readying himself for war.
One of the standout elements for me was the richly atmospheric, Roman-inspired worldbuilding -it felt incredibly immersive with vivid details that brought the setting to life!
I especially loved how the romantic storyline was woven seamlessly into the narrative. It never felt separate from the plot, instead it added emotional depth and heightened the stakes in a really natural way. The tension, both political and personal, kept me engaged throughout.
Adrienne Young does a fantastic job balancing character development with a compelling, layered world, making this a gripping and memorable read. Definitely one I’d recommend to fans of immersive fantasy with strong romantic elements.
One of the standout elements for me was the richly atmospheric, Roman-inspired worldbuilding -it felt incredibly immersive with vivid details that brought the setting to life!
I especially loved how the romantic storyline was woven seamlessly into the narrative. It never felt separate from the plot, instead it added emotional depth and heightened the stakes in a really natural way. The tension, both political and personal, kept me engaged throughout.
Adrienne Young does a fantastic job balancing character development with a compelling, layered world, making this a gripping and memorable read. Definitely one I’d recommend to fans of immersive fantasy with strong romantic elements.
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May 10, 2026E-Arc provided by Netgalley
This is a very solid duology, it's not my favorite from Adrienne Young but it still has her writing flair to it. I enjoyed the characters in here and the way they moved through the world and interacted with each other and I also think that this wraps up very nicely
This is a very solid duology, it's not my favorite from Adrienne Young but it still has her writing flair to it. I enjoyed the characters in here and the way they moved through the world and interacted with each other and I also think that this wraps up very nicely
Want to Read
January 8, 2026We have a title!!!!
May 12, 2026
4-4.5⭐️ and rounding up for now.
Full review to come
Full review to come
Want to Read
February 9, 20212023
Want to Read
April 14, 2021Wait, when is this coming out??
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April 1, 2026Expected publication December 15
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