Review: Immortal Longings (Flesh and False Gods #1) by Chloe Gong

*I received an advance reading copy of this book from Simon & Schuster Canada in exchange for an honest review.

Immortal Longings

(Flesh and False Gods #1)

by Chloe Gong

July 18, 2023

Goodreads Summary:

#1 New York Times bestselling YA author Chloe Gong’s adult epic fantasy debut, inspired by Shakespeare’s Antony and Cleopatra , is a fiery collision of power plays, spilled blood, and romance amidst a set of deadly games.

Every year, thousands in the kingdom of Talin will flock to its capital twin cities, San-Er, where the palace hosts a set of games. For those confident enough in their ability to jump between bodies, competitors across San-Er fight to the death to win unimaginable riches.

Princess Calla Tuoleimi lurks in hiding. Five years ago, a massacre killed her parents and left the palace of Er empty…and she was the one who did it. Before King Kasa’s forces in San can catch her, she plans to finish the job and bring down the monarchy. Her reclusive uncle always greets the victor of the games, so if she wins, she gets her opportunity at last to kill him.

Enter Anton Makusa, an exiled aristocrat. His childhood love has lain in a coma since they were both ousted from the palace, and he’s deep in debt trying to keep her alive. Thankfully, he’s one of the best jumpers in the kingdom, flitting from body to body at will. His last chance at saving her is entering the games and winning.

Calla finds both an unexpected alliance with Anton and help from King Kasa’s adopted son, August, who wants to mend Talin’s ills. But the three of them have very different goals, even as Calla and Anton’s partnership spirals into something all-consuming. Before the games close, Calla must decide what she’s playing for—her lover or her kingdom.

Review

I've read all of Chloe Gong's books and Immortal Longings is by far my favourite out of them all. Though I feel no words I put down will properly convey my feelings for this book, I will try because it deserves all the recognition!

My heart was pounding hard reading Immortal Longings. I didn't quite know what to expect but once I started, the anticipation pumped through me. The world was harsh but had an exotic edge I savoured. The story with the body-jumping ability was surprisingly refreshing. There were thoughtful conversations on humanity and greed. The unpredictable characters gave me chills. Vicious and gripping, the fight sequences instilled fear and excitement in me. Every moment of Immortal Longings was raw adrenaline.

Calla embodied justice. I enjoyed watching her stab her way to her goal. She was ruthlessly efficient but never cold-blooded. I had a hunch about Calla's big secret and I was right. "What are memories if not stories told repeatedly to oneself? Her whole body is the very narrative of her existence." (ARC, p. 202) Truly well done, Miss Chloe Gong.

I struggle with how to define the romance in Immortal Longings. It wasn't prominent until the latter half of the book but once Calla and Anton let go of their inhibitions, they blew up the pages. The all-consuming nature of their relationship has me simultaneously dreading and delighting in where their relationship is headed. It's safe to say I'm obsessed!

Immortal Longings does not relay a pretty tale. It's a story made of difficult choices and rife with brutal honesty. That cliffhanger ending had me screaming. Join me in experiencing this pain- I promise it's worth it.

*I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own and not affected in any way. Any quotes included in my review were taken from the copy I received.