Fallen Dawn

My Thoughts on Fallen Dawn

"Fallen Dawn" promised a rollercoaster of emotions, and boy, did it deliver! This short novel plunges you straight into a world of arranged marriages, societal expectations, and a love story that's as heart-wrenching as it is ultimately satisfying. If you're looking for a quick, intense read that will leave you reaching for the tissues, this might be right up your alley.

First Impressions

Initially, I was a little wary. Short stories can sometimes feel rushed, sacrificing depth for brevity. However, "Fallen Dawn" managed to pack a surprising amount of emotional punch into its limited chapters. The premise is simple: a beta, Shen Luo, is married off to an alpha, Ming Shao, who is initially indifferent and even prejudiced against betas. Shen Luo, heartbroken, eventually decides to leave, triggering the "wife chasing crematorium" that many readers seem to adore.

What Works Well

The emotional aspect is undeniably the strongest point. The author does an excellent job of portraying the pain and longing experienced by both the MC and the ML. I especially appreciated that the ML wasn't portrayed as an irredeemable character. Yes, he makes mistakes, big ones fueled by his upbringing and societal expectations, but he genuinely repents and works hard to earn back Shen Luo's trust. The groveling is chef's kiss. I also really liked that Shen Luo wasn't a pushover. He knew his worth and didn't immediately forgive Ming Shao, making the eventual reconciliation all the more rewarding. Many readers expressed how much they cried while reading this novel. I didn't cry myself, but I was definitely tearing up at points.

Areas of Concern

While I enjoyed the story overall, the short length does mean that some elements felt a bit underdeveloped. I wished for more depth in the world-building and perhaps a few more chapters dedicated to the couple's happiness after they reconciled. A few readers also mentioned that the change in the ML's personality felt a bit rushed, and I can see where they're coming from.

Final Verdict

Despite its brevity and minor shortcomings, "Fallen Dawn" is a compelling and emotionally resonant read. The wife-chasing crematorium is executed well, the characters are surprisingly fleshed out, and the ending, while bittersweet, is ultimately satisfying. If you're looking for a quick dose of angst and redemption, I'd definitely recommend giving this one a try. I'm giving it a solid 4 out of 5 stars.