From its opening pages, The Rarkyn’s Fall plunges readers back into a world of peril, magic, and intrigue. Nikky Lee’s sequel to The Rarkyn’s Familiar is an expert expansion of the story’s scope while deepening its emotional resonance. Longer, darker, and more ambitious than its predecessor, this second instalment takes the world readers come to know and infuses it with fresh stakes, new layers of complexity, and hauntingly beautiful prose.
At its core, the novel follows Lyss and Skaar as they journey to Illredus, a city teeming with danger and forbidden magic. Outlawed and desperate, Lyss struggles to control her volatile new magic—a power that could destroy her unless she finds the last remaining witch capable of taming it. Illredus, with its shadowy underbelly of illicit magics and political tensions, is a character in itself, vibrant and alive with the dark legacies of those who inhabit it. The city holds not only the key to Lyss’s survival but also the buried truths of her father’s past—truths that could shatter everything she thought she knew.
Lee’s worldbuilding is the real star in this instalment. Through it, she is able to layer deep characterisation, geography, history, and political intrigue. Illredus is brought to life through intricate details that immerse the reader in its sprawling streets, oppressive hierarchies, and hidden horrors. The darker tone of the novel is palpable, particularly in its exploration of monstrous transformations, both literal and figurative. It’s pretty heavy on the gore side now and then, and so this should act as fair warning to those who want to read it; however, at no point does the presentation of gore take away from the strength of the overarching narrative.
Where The Rarkyn’s Fall excels (much like its predecessor) is in its characters. Lyss’s internal struggle as she grapples with her burgeoning magic is both compelling and heart-wrenching. Her bond with Skaar deepens in unexpected ways, with both characters undergoing profound transformations. Skaar, in particular, confronts his fears of becoming a monster—a journey that mirrors Lyss’s own fears of losing control. Their dynamic is a testament to Lee’s skill in portraying complex, evolving relationships.
The supporting cast adds further depth to the story. Familiar faces return with new layers of intrigue, while new characters bring fresh perspectives and challenges. Betrayals, alliances, and backstories intertwine seamlessly, enriching the narrative and driving the plot forward. Lee’s ability to balance the personal with the political is on full display, as the characters’ individual struggles are set against the backdrop of the empire’s larger conflicts.
Pacing is another strength of the novel. Action sequences are tight and visceral, keeping readers on the edge of their seats, while quieter moments allow for reflection and worldbuilding. The book’s length is justified by its ambitious scope, with every twist and revelation propelling the story toward its explosive conclusion.
As with the first book, The Rarkyn’s Fall leaves readers with a satisfying resolution while setting the stage for the trilogy’s final instalment. It is a tale of power, identity, and the bonds that hold us together in the face of unimaginable challenges. For fans of epic fantasy, this is a sequel that surpasses expectations, delivering an unforgettable journey through a world as dangerous as it is enchanting.
Reviewer: Chris Reed
Caelestis Books