The Fallen & the Kiss of Dusk

Gather initial thoughts and broad opinions about the book.

1. Did The Fallen & the Kiss of Dusk live up to or fall short of your expectations for the sequel to Mische and Asar’s story? Why?

2. The Fallen & the Kiss of Dusk features a structure and mission similar to those of the prior installment. Did Broadbent make it different enough, or was it too repetitive?

3. Now that Mische and Asar’s romance has completed its arc, how would you compare it to the romance of Oraya and Raihn in the first duology of the Crowns of Nyaxia series? Which couple is your favorite, and why?

Encourage readers to connect the book’s themes and characters with their personal experiences.

1. Asar and Mische both redefine themselves after years of being used by others. When have you had to break away from expectations or roles placed on you by others?

2. The novel shows how grief can either hollow someone out or become a catalyst for change. How did you feel about this portrayal of grief?

3. The book suggests that mercy and compassion are more powerful than vengeful justice. Do you agree with this idea, or are there times when retribution feels justified?

4. The novel emphasizes that scars—emotional and physical—can carry beauty and meaning. Have you ever found value in a personal “scar” or hardship that shaped who you are?

Examine the book’s relevance to societal issues, historical events, or cultural themes.

1. The Sentinels embody a system of justice that punishes without considering the possibility of redemption or the circumstances of the crime. How does this compare to real-world justice systems and debates on topics like rehabilitation?

2. Nyaxia builds her empire on grief, turning personal loss into political power. How do you see grief or trauma shaping personal or collective identities, either today or historically?

3. The novel’s society is structured by Houses, each with its own politics and prejudices. How does this fragmentation mirror divisions in real-world cultures, and what commentary might Broadbent be offering about unity?

Dive into the book’s structure, characters, themes, and symbolism.

1. How do the interludes shape your understanding of Asar’s present decisions? Do they make him a more sympathetic character?

2. Discuss how phoenix imagery connects to Mische’s journey. How does it deepen the themes of rebirth and reinvention?

3. Explore the symbolism of Morthryn. How does its decay and gradual restoration mirror the inner journeys of both protagonists?

4. How does Broadbent’s choice to alternate between Asar and Mische’s points of view affect the reader’s understanding of their relationship and the stakes of their quest?

Encourage imaginative and creative connections to the book.

1. Vincent delivers a letter to Oraya and the end of the novel. What do you think it said? Write a draft of what you think Vincent might have communicated to his daughter.

2. In order to resurrect someone from the dead, individuals in Mische and Asar’s world need to gather five necessary elements specific to the individual. What five items could encompass your being in a resurrection ritual?

3. Design a new House to exist alongside Night, Shadow, Blood, and Death. What would its values, powers, and weaknesses be, and how would it interact with the existing political order?