The Fallen Swallow - A Deep Dive Review

by Justin C Davis (Author)

Updated at: 23/02/2025

In Justin C Davis's The Fallen Swallow, thirteen-year-old Lily, the last of her kind, faces a terrifying reality: a world steeped in dark magic and simmering violence. Supernatural forces threaten to unravel the fabric of existence, with shadowy figures lurking in every corner. This captivating blend of fantasy and suspense plunges Lily into a perilous adventure where she must navigate a complex web of characters and challenging moral dilemmas. As Lily confronts the encroaching darkness, The Fallen Swallow explores the enduring strength of unity against overwhelming odds, questioning perceptions and offering a thrilling and thought-provoking journey.

4.7 / 7 ratings

Review The Fallen Swallow

Okay, let's talk about The Fallen Swallow by Justin C. Davis! I'll be completely upfront: I almost put it down about a fifth of the way through. There were moments where I felt a little…lost. I craved more world-building, a deeper dive into the rules of this magical realm that Lily finds herself in. But honestly, I'm so incredibly glad I persevered, because this novella completely won me over. It's a five-star read for me, no question.

The initial hesitation stemmed from a feeling of being slightly thrown into the deep end. Lily's situation is immediately precarious, and the narrative thrusts you straight into the heart of the danger. While this initially felt a bit jarring, it also worked to build suspense incredibly effectively. The pacing is phenomenal; you're constantly on the edge of your seat, desperate to know what happens next to Lily, this thirteen-year-old girl who's the last of her kind, navigating a world brimming with dark magic and shadowy figures.

What truly shines in The Fallen Swallow is the character work. Lily is a fantastic protagonist. She’s brave, resourceful, and utterly believable in her vulnerability. She’s not a Mary Sue; she makes mistakes, she doubts herself, and that makes her all the more compelling. And Abaddon, the menacing figure pursuing her? He's far more than just a typical villain. His motivations are complex, shrouded in mystery, and hinted at with tantalizing glimpses into his past – glimpses that left me desperate for more. Even the supporting characters, like Gadabout and Randolph, felt richly developed and left a lasting impression despite their limited screen time.

The author's ability to create atmosphere is another key strength. The descriptions are vivid enough to paint a clear picture of the world, bringing the bustling cities and dangerous landscapes to life. The dialogue feels natural and engaging, pulling you deeper into the story and the relationships between the characters. There's a captivating blend of fantasy and suspense, with the magic system feeling both intriguing and dangerous. The world feels rich even though the story focuses on a relatively limited geographic area.

Yes, there are some minor flaws. I noticed a couple of instances of repetitive phrasing, which slightly interrupted the flow at times. And I’ll reiterate that more world-building wouldn’t have gone amiss. But these are truly minor quibbles compared to the overall impact of the story.

Ultimately, The Fallen Swallow is a powerful and thought-provoking read. It’s a dark YA fantasy, but it's also full of heart. It explores themes of identity, sacrifice, and the enduring power of unity in the face of overwhelming odds. It’s a captivating adventure that left me wanting more—and thankfully, there's more to come! I'm eagerly anticipating the next installment and wholeheartedly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys dark fantasy with strong characters and a gripping plot.