The Last One
Rachel Howzell Hall’s fantasy novel The Last One is a tale of magical creatures, mysterious magics, budding romance, and self-discovery.
In a forest in the realm of Vallendor, Kai wakes up injured and in the process of being robbed by Olivia. Meanwhile, Vallendor is on the precipice of being torn apart by an unstoppable sickness, the Miasma, and by power-hungry Emperor Wake, an authoritarian who names himself the supreme of all the land, exiling all other deities and magic. Kai remembers nothing from before and is plagued by questions about her identity, including about who she might become. What follows is an action-packed trek in which Kai and her allies run from and fight Wake’s men, otherworldly beasts, and dangerous Elyn, all of whom are determined to catch or kill Kai for reasons unknown.
Vallendor is fleshed out in fascinating detail as Kai awakens to its particulars, fighting her way through a world that she’s forgotten. Its rich histories, intriguing creatures, and magical systems make it lush with intrigue. The mages and their different lineages are covered, as are otherworldly beasts like giant, flesh-eating battabees and giant wolf burnu.
Kai is a complicated heroine—confident but uncertain, strong but sensitive, and always grappling to fit the puzzle pieces of her previous life back into her present. Her interactions with others are the catalysts for her developing theories and knowledge about herself. She flirts with Jadon, and their relationship grows. She also feels deepening affection for Jadon’s sister Olivia; Olivia’s love, Philia; and other people and creatures whom she meets. She oscillates between the opposing forces within her, weighing temperance against revenge and rage against peace, resulting in a compelling and very human tale.
The fantasy novel The Last One introduces an intriguing universe full of love, intrigue, and revelations.
Reviewed by
Natalie Wollenzien
Disclosure: This article is not an endorsement, but a review. The publisher of this book provided free copies of the book to have their book reviewed by a professional reviewer. No fee was paid by the publisher for this review. Foreword Reviews only recommends books that we love. Foreword Magazine, Inc. is disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.
