Immortal Longings by Chloe Gong

Pages: 384 

Publisher: Hodder & Stoughton 

Released: 25th of July 2023 

#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.

What I Have to Say 

Another great read from Chloe Gong! While I didn't love it quite as much as Foul Lady Fortune, I still enjoyed it immensely. It was interesting to explore a new world with new magic. The descriptions of SanEr were so evocative that I could really imagine the close buildings and cramped streets. 

The body jumping made it really interesting. While I cringed a little from the different rules of consent, it made it so much darker and more interesting. I almost wish we could have had the viewpoint of one of the characters who had to deal with their body being hijacked and what they would do to protect themselves, because I think that would have been an interesting perspective. 

The characters were really strong unusually for me, I actually got quite caught up in the romance. It was an interesting enemies-to-allies-to lovers type romance that was refreshing to read. It was good to get an enemies-to-lovers where the characters weren't of completely opposing viewpoints, because that has become really common lately. 

All around this was a great book. Strong plot, strong characters, a strong setting and an ending to make you desperate for the next book. I can't wait. 

4 stars 

My thanks go to Hodder & Stoughton as well as Netgalley for providing me with this gifted copy for review.