What You Need to Know Before Reading All That Falls by A.N. Horton
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If you’re ready to dive into a captivating new world filled with intrigue, fantasy, and historical romance, All That Falls by A.N. Horton, part of the Immortal Plane series, is the next book you must read. In this gripping installment, Horton introduces readers to a realm where plotting crimes against the crown is as common as crafting characters who effortlessly win over your heart.
The Immortal Plane series blends a new world of magic and history, and in All That Falls, the main character Ren finds herself in that new world. One she never thought she would enter—the place of her birth. From the first page, you’ll be swept into a meticulously built world where the author’s love for world-building and character depth shines through. If you think you’ve seen it all in fantasy and romance, Horton’s unique storytelling will have you rethinking what you know about these genres.
Title: All That Falls (The Immortal Plane, 1)
Author: A.N. Horton
Publisher: Independently Published
Genre: Dark Fantasy Romance, Historical Romance, Fae
Release Date: April 11, 2023
Pages: 293
Star Rating: 3.5 stars (rounded up)
Spice Rating: 1 bell pepper
Living as an abandoned Half-Fae in a world that doesn’t even know magic exists
When author A.N. Horton reached out to me to read her book All That Falls I said SIGN ME UP! The Immortal Plane series is said to be a dark fae romantasy with tropes of found family, fated mates, a strong FMC, hidden identity, gods and mythology and so much more.
The premise is intriguing a half-fae woman working a normal job as a researcher at a university, closing various riffs around the world. This position as a university professor adds a touch of normalcy to the traditional fae story. When we open Ren is working on closing a riff (with a man she despises) when Lark and Rook show up and ask for her help to get back to their home. In exchange, they will help her close the newest riff that’s sprung up. What Ren and Lark don’t expect, is that things go awry and Ren is whisked away to the Immortal Plane (essentially saving her life in the moment).
While reading All That Falls, I never quite wrapped my head around why Ren hated the fae so much. I had all the facts (she thought her mother left her), but the reasoning behind that wasn’t enough to warrant Ren’s deep-seated hatred. She didn’t seem to have this same hatred for her father (who is human), and it left me wondering why. Even with the knowledge, that there needs to be a starting point to grow from this point for me, it was never fully resolved.
“Non est ad astra mollis e terris via. There is no easy way from the earth to the stars.”
At 71% my biggest gripe with the story is that Ren is all one note. So infuriating, that I can’t see beyond what she could be because she hasn’t progressed. Or give me something to latch onto. She explains everything away using the guise of anger. And while everyone around her is developing and molding into better people, she as the main character is still on base level. It isn’t until Lark explains the connection between them that she starts to soften. And by that point, I was already too annoyed with Ren.
Despite my frustration with the main character, A.N. Horton’s writing is undeniably well done. The plot of the Immortal Plane series tells a compelling story. Effortlessly drawing readers into the intricate world of fae plotting crimes against the surrounding kingdoms. Horton’s talent shines in the way she builds tension and weaves in complex political intrigue, keeping the stakes high throughout. It’s easy to get swept away by her vivid descriptions and fall in love with the richly developed side characters. Even when the main character doesn’t fully resonate. Horton has a gift for storytelling that keeps you engaged, even in moments of frustration with the protagonist.
“You are not a burden. You’re not small. You are not insignificant in any way. Your life, your problems, are no less important than ours.”
The world-building in All That Falls is nothing short of breathtaking, showcasing A.N. Horton’s undeniable talent for crafting intricate realms that feel alive. In the Immortal Plane series, the new world Horton creates is rich with history, mystery, and the perfect blend of fantasy and historical romance. Adding layers to the story like a well-made croissant. As you peel back and take a bite you find a new surprise hidden within. Each layer of the Immortal Plane realm is meticulously detailed. Drawing readers deeper into its vibrant streets of rainbow colors, mystical elements, and carefully plotted crimes against the crown that keep the story’s tension high. The author’s love for building a world full of both magic and reality shines. Making the setting not just a backdrop, but a living, breathing character in itself. Every detail adds to the immersive experience.
While this is supposed to be a historical romance fantasy, the romance aspect feels a bit underdeveloped. Do the main characters eventually get together? Yes, they do. However, it seems more like an afterthought than a central plot point. Instead of the romance unfolding naturally, it feels almost as if it’s used as a convenient way to resolve Ren’s disdain for the fae. The connection between the characters lacks the depth and emotional build-up you’d expect from a historical romance. Making it feel more like a checkbox ticked off rather than a driving force in the story. For those coming in expecting a sweeping love story, this part of the book might leave you wanting more.
“But don’t trust me yet. Let me earn it.”
All That Falls by A.N. Horton, part of the Immortal Plane series, is a unique blend of fantasy and historical romance that brings readers into a new world filled with intrigue, magic, and complex characters. While the romance might feel like an afterthought, the richly detailed world-building more than makes up for it. Horton’s ability to create a realm full of tension, plotting crimes, and hidden identities is where the story truly shines.
The Immortal Plane itself is a well-crafted character, teeming with life, history, and an undercurrent of danger. Though the main character, Ren, may frustrate some readers with her one-note personality, the surrounding cast, and the vividly described world pull you in. With each page, the series layers discoveries and political intrigue. Adding depth to the plot and drawing you deeper into this new world. Even if you’re not completely sold on the romance, the immersive storytelling will make this a book worth reading for fans of high fantasy.
Don’t forget to return to the Immortal Plane on October 29th with book two in the series, All That Soars. You can get a copy of All That Falls and preorder All That Soars on Amazon. Thank you to author A.N. Horton for providing me with a copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
Would You Add All That Falls To Your TBR? Let us know in the comments!
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