In the post apocalyptic world of Fallen, survivors are tormented by a mysterious mist that can disintegrates animate and inanimate objects alike. Many have also developed psychic powers, like Emma's ability to heal. Emma was in Europe with her young daughter when the mists descended and the apocalypse began. As they travel to find a safe haven, more children joined their group and Emma protects them from both the mists and the roving bands of marauders. When they come across Arthur and his men searching for provisions in a dead town, Emma strikes up a deal. In return for the safety of Arthur’s camp for her and the seven children in her charge, she becomes his woman. Slowly, they fall in love, but Emma is torn between her new feelings and the husband she left behind overseas. When Arthur's devastating secret is revealed to her, she doubts the strength of her feelings for him.

Fallen has a very vivid world populated with interesting characters. I did find the female characters to be much more dimensional than the male characters-- I really liked the love/hate relationship between Emma and the herbalist who sets out to help her use her gift. I found Arthur to be borderline abusive at times. His possessiveness of Emma really bothered me and I kept expecting either that he would snap or Emma would leave him. All in all, I enjoyed watching the characters develop in their new world, especially seeing the children mature and find their own places among the survivors.

My Recommendation
While Fallen by Traci Slatton is not a deeply philosophical (or dark) look at the apocalypse, it is a nice read. In the backdrop of a ruined society, the characters shine through, trying to make the most of their new world and find their place in it.

Fallen by Traci Slatton
Published by Telemachus Press
242 pages

Fallen by Traci Slatton is available at Amazon.com

My free review copy of Fallen was provided by the publisher.