Vilest Things by Chloe Gong

Power Corrupts, But Does It Have To?

In the cutthroat world of Talin, where political machinations are as deadly as the games that determine its ruler, Chloe Gong’s “Vilest Things” picks up where “Immortal Longings” left off—with a kingdom teetering on the edge of chaos. This second installment in the Flesh and False Gods trilogy plunges readers back into a realm where qi manipulation borders on magic, and the line between ally and enemy blurs with each turn of the page. But while Gong’s sophomore effort in this series delivers on action and intrigue, it sometimes stumbles under the weight of its own ambitions.

A Kingdom in Turmoil, A Crown in Question

As the dust settles from the bloody conclusion of the king’s games, Calla Tuoleimi finds herself in a precarious position. Having secured a place as royal advisor to the newly crowned King August Shenzhi, she harbors a dangerous secret: the man on the throne is not August at all, but Anton Makusa, her former lover and rival. This deception sets the stage for a complex dance of loyalties, as Calla navigates between her duty to the kingdom and her conflicted feelings for Anton.

The plot thickens with the awakening of Otta Avia, Anton’s first love, whose revelations threaten to upend the fragile peace. As unrest spreads through the provinces and whispers of rebellion reach the capital, Calla and Anton must confront not only external threats but also their own tumultuous relationship.

Strengths: World-Building and Character Complexity

Gong’s greatest strength lies in her ability to craft a world that feels both familiar and alien. The kingdom of Talin, with its blend of advanced technology and mystical qi manipulation, provides a rich backdrop for the unfolding drama. The author’s descriptive prowess shines particularly bright in scenes set outside the capital, as the delegation journeys through diverse provinces, each with its own distinct flavor and challenges.

Character development, too, is a highlight. Calla’s internal struggle between her desire for revenge and her growing sense of responsibility to the kingdom adds layers to her character that were only hinted at in the first book. Anton’s journey from exiled noble to reluctant usurper is equally compelling, forcing readers to question their allegiances along with the characters themselves.

Standout Moments:

• The tense confrontation in Lankil’s abandoned city, where past and present collide in unexpected ways
• Otta’s manipulation of qi, which raises the stakes and introduces new dimensions to the power dynamics
• The climactic scene in the throne room, where loyalties are tested and secrets come to light

Weaknesses: Pacing and Plot Contrivances

However, “Vilest Things” is not without its flaws. The pacing, especially in the first third of the book, can be uneven. While the political intrigue and character interactions are engaging, the plot sometimes feels as though it’s spinning its wheels, with repetitive internal monologues and circular arguments between Calla and Anton.

Moreover, some plot developments strain credulity, even within the fantastical framework Gong has established. The ease with which certain characters manipulate qi or uncover long-buried secrets occasionally feels convenient rather than organic to the story. The revelation about Sinoa Tuoleimi, while intriguing, comes across as somewhat rushed and underdeveloped.

Areas for Improvement:

• More consistent pacing, particularly in the early chapters
• Better integration of the historical backstory with the present-day narrative
• Deeper exploration of secondary characters, who sometimes feel two-dimensional in comparison to the protagonists

Themes: Power, Identity, and the Cost of Ambition

Despite these shortcomings, Gong’s exploration of themes remains thought-provoking. The corrupting influence of power is a central motif, with characters grappling with the moral implications of their actions. The question of identity—who we are versus who we pretend to be—resonates throughout, particularly in Anton’s struggle to maintain his sense of self while inhabiting August’s body.

The cost of ambition is another recurring theme, as characters weigh personal desires against the greater good. Calla’s journey, in particular, highlights the often blurry line between justice and vengeance, forcing readers to confront uncomfortable truths about the nature of leadership and sacrifice.

Writing Style: Evocative Yet Occasionally Overwrought

Gong’s prose is, for the most part, a pleasure to read. Her descriptions of qi manipulation are particularly vivid, lending a cinematic quality to the action scenes. Dialogue crackles with tension, especially in exchanges between Calla and Anton, where unspoken feelings simmer beneath the surface.

However, there are moments when the writing veers into melodrama, with characters prone to lengthy internal monologues that can disrupt the flow of the narrative. While this style may appeal to fans of more introspective fantasy, it may test the patience of readers looking for a brisker pace.

Comparison to Other Works

“Vilest Things” invites comparisons to other works in the fantasy-romance genre, such as Sabaa Tahir’s “An Ember in the Ashes” series or Victoria Aveyard’s “Red Queen” saga. Like these contemporaries, Gong blends political intrigue with magical elements and forbidden romance. However, her unique take on qi manipulation and the East Asian-inspired setting set her work apart.

Fans of Gong’s previous series, “These Violent Delights,” will find familiar themes of star-crossed lovers and political machinations, though “Vilest Things” delves into darker territory with its exploration of power and corruption.

Final Verdict: A Flawed But Engaging Sequel

Despite its shortcomings, “Vilest Things” remains an engaging read that will satisfy fans of the first book and leave them eager for the trilogy’s conclusion. Gong’s talent for world-building and character development shines through, even when the plot occasionally falters.

Who Should Read This Book?

• Fans of fantasy-romance with political intrigue
• Readers who enjoy morally ambiguous characters and complex relationships
• Those interested in East Asian-inspired fantasy settings
• Anyone who appreciates thoughtful exploration of power dynamics and identity

Who Might Want to Skip It?

• Readers looking for fast-paced action throughout
• Those who prefer more traditional fantasy elements over qi manipulation
• Fans of straightforward, black-and-white morality in their characters

In Conclusion: A Promise of Things to Come

“Vilest Things” may not be perfect, but it sets the stage for what promises to be an explosive finale to the Flesh and False Gods trilogy. Chloe Gong has crafted a world rich with possibility and populated by characters whose fates we can’t help but care about. As the lines between hero and villain continue to blur, one thing is certain: the battle for Talin’s throne is far from over, and the cost of victory may be higher than anyone imagined.

As we close the book on this chapter of Calla and Anton’s story, we’re left with questions that demand answers and a hunger for justice that may never be fully sated. In the end, isn’t that what great fantasy is all about? Leaving us wanting more, even as we question the very nature of our desires? “Vilest Things” may stumble at times, but it never loses sight of the complex, messy, all-too-human hearts at its core.

And really, in a world as ruthless as Talin, what more could we ask for?