A Crown’s Weight in Ashes and Ambition
Power corrupts, and absolute power corrupts absolutely. This timeless adage echoes hauntingly through the pages of Chloe Gong’s “Vilest Things,” the much-anticipated sequel to “Immortal Longings” in her Flesh and False Gods trilogy. Set in the fantastical kingdom of Talin, where ancient magics clash with political machinations, Gong weaves a tale as intricate and deadly as the web of lies her characters spin.
But as the dust settles from the blood-soaked arenas of San-Er, readers may find themselves questioning whether the corruption stems from power itself, or from the relentless pursuit of it. In a world where bodies are mere vessels and loyalties shift like sand, Gong explores the depths to which humanity will sink in its quest for control.
The Game Continues, But the Rules Have Changed
Picking up in the wake of King Kasa’s death, “Vilest Things” thrusts us back into a Talin teetering on the brink of chaos. Calla Tuoleimi, our morally ambiguous protagonist, has seemingly achieved her goal—the tyrant is dead, and her cousin August sits upon the throne. Yet victory rings hollow as the true cost of her actions begins to unfold.
The novel’s strength lies in its refusal to offer easy answers or clear-cut heroes. Calla, once driven by a singular purpose, now finds herself adrift in a sea of consequences. Her uneasy alliance with Anton Makusa, the man whose body she sacrificed for her vengeance, crackles with tension and unresolved feelings. Their dynamic, equal parts attraction and mistrust, serves as a microcosm for the larger conflicts at play.
Gong’s prose remains sharp and evocative, painting a vivid picture of a kingdom in turmoil. The claustrophobic streets of San-Er contrast starkly with the vast, unforgiving landscapes of the outer provinces. This juxtaposition mirrors the internal struggles of our protagonists, caught between the familiar corruption of the capital and the unknown dangers that lurk beyond.
A Dance of Deception and Desire
At its core, “Vilest Things” is a story of identities – those we’re born with, those we choose, and those thrust upon us. The body-swapping magic that underpins the plot serves as a potent metaphor for the fluidity of self in a world where survival often means becoming someone else entirely.
Anton’s struggle to maintain control of August’s body while grappling with his own desires creates a fascinating character study. His relationship with Calla evolves in unexpected ways, forcing both characters to confront uncomfortable truths about themselves and each other. Their scenes crackle with sexual tension and unspoken resentments, a powder keg waiting for a spark.
The introduction of Otta Avia adds another layer of complexity to an already intricate plot. Her awakening from a years-long coma brings with it revelations that threaten to upend everything Calla and Anton thought they knew. Otta’s true nature and motivations remain tantalizingly opaque for much of the novel, keeping readers guessing until the very end.
A Kingdom Divided
While the personal dramas of our main characters drive much of the narrative, Gong doesn’t neglect the larger political landscape. The power vacuum left by Kasa’s death has far-reaching consequences, and the author deftly explores how different factions within Talin seek to exploit the chaos.
The Crescent Societies, with their quasi-religious fervor and mysterious abilities, emerge as a formidable force. Their presence adds a welcome element of unpredictability to the plot, forcing Calla and Anton to confront threats from multiple angles.
Gong’s worldbuilding continues to impress, expanding on the foundations laid in “Immortal Longings.” The history of Talin unfolds in tantalizing fragments, hinting at a past far more complex than initially presented. The nature of the divine crown and its true powers become central to the plot, raising questions about the very legitimacy of Talin’s monarchy.
Strengths and Stumbles
“Vilest Things” shines brightest in its exploration of moral ambiguity. No character emerges unscathed, and Gong refuses to offer easy redemption arcs. The choices made have real, often brutal consequences, lending weight to every decision.
The pacing is relentless, with twists and revelations coming at a dizzying speed. While this keeps the pages turning, it occasionally leaves little room for deeper character development. Some secondary characters, particularly among the councillors, feel underdeveloped as a result.
Gong’s prose remains a highlight, effortlessly blending lush description with sharp dialogue. Her action scenes are particularly well-crafted, visceral and kinetic without becoming gratuitous.
However, the sheer complexity of the plot sometimes threatens to overwhelm. The introduction of new magical elements, while intriguing, can feel rushed in places. Readers may find themselves wishing for a more thorough exploration of how these powers work and their implications for the wider world.
A Crown’s True Weight
As the novel races towards its conclusion, the central question becomes not who will claim the throne, but whether anyone truly deserves it. Gong masterfully subverts expectations, forcing readers to question their allegiances along with the characters.
The final act is a rollercoaster of emotion and action, with betrayals and sacrifices that will leave readers reeling. While some may find the ending somewhat abrupt, it sets the stage for what promises to be an explosive conclusion to the trilogy.
Verdict: A Worthy, If Occasionally Unwieldy, Successor
“Vilest Things” is a bold, ambitious sequel that expands the scope of Gong’s world in thrilling ways. While it occasionally buckles under the weight of its own complexity, the novel’s strengths far outweigh its flaws.
Fans of “Immortal Longings” will find much to love here, as Gong delves deeper into the moral quagmires introduced in the first book. Newcomers to the series, however, may find themselves at a disadvantage—this is very much a middle book, and prior knowledge is essential to fully appreciate the intricate plot.
Gong’s writing continues to mature, tackling weighty themes with nuance and grace. Her ability to craft morally complex characters in impossible situations remains unparalleled in the YA fantasy landscape.
In the Shadow of Shakespeare
While “Immortal Longings” drew clear inspiration from “Romeo and Juliet,” the Shakespearean echoes in “Vilest Things” are more subtle. Keen-eyed readers may spot parallels to “Antony and Cleopatra” in the power dynamics and doomed romances, but Gong has crafted a story that stands confidently on its own.
Final Thoughts
“Vilest Things” cements Chloe Gong’s place as a rising star in the fantasy genre. Her ability to blend political intrigue, magical systems, and complex character relationships is truly impressive. While the novel occasionally stumbles under the weight of its own ambition, it remains a gripping, thought-provoking read that will leave fans eagerly anticipating the trilogy’s conclusion.
Who Should Read This?
- Fans of morally grey characters and complex political machinations
- Readers who enjoy fantasy with unique magical systems
- Those who appreciate Shakespeare-inspired retellings with a modern twist
- Anyone looking for a YA fantasy that doesn’t shy away from difficult themes
Who Should Skip It?
- Readers new to the series (start with “Immortal Longings”)
- Those looking for clear-cut heroes and villains
- Fans of slower-paced, character-driven fantasy
In the Realm of Fantasy Romance
“Vilest Things” stands out in the crowded field of YA fantasy romance for its unflinching examination of power and its consequences. While comparisons to works like Sabaa Tahir’s “An Ember in the Ashes” series or Marie Rutkoski’s “The Winner’s Trilogy” are inevitable, Gong carves out her own unique niche.
Her blend of Chinese-inspired fantasy elements with Shakespearean tragedy creates a world both familiar and refreshingly new. The romance, while central to the plot, never overshadows the larger political and magical elements at play.
For readers seeking similar tales of magic, politics, and doomed love, Victoria Aveyard’s “Red Queen” series or Roshani Chokshi’s “The Gilded Wolves” trilogy might scratch a similar itch. However, Gong’s voice remains distinctly her own, a promising sign for her future in the genre.
The Road Ahead
As we await the conclusion to the Flesh and False Gods trilogy, “Vilest Things” leaves us with more questions than answers. The fate of Talin hangs in the balance, and the true nature of its magic remains shrouded in mystery.
Whatever comes next, one thing is certain – Chloe Gong has crafted a world rich in possibility and ripe for exploration. Whether Calla, Anton, and their allies find redemption or ruin, their journey promises to be one readers won’t soon forget.