Immortal - A Deep Dive Review

by Sue Lynn Tan (Author)

Updated at: 22/01/2025

In Sue Lynn Tan's captivating novel, Immortal, young ruler Liyen inherits a precarious throne and a kingdom bound by an uneasy pact with the immortals. Fueled by vengeance for her grandfather's death, Liyen embarks on a dangerous mission to the Immortal Realm. There, she forges a fragile alliance with the formidable God of War, a being she both needs and distrusts. Their alliance sparks a forbidden attraction, threatening Liyen's carefully constructed plans. As darker forces threaten her kingdom, Liyen must choose between her ambition, her heart, and the fate of her people, all while navigating a treacherous web of secrets and forbidden magic in this stunning romantic fantasy.

4.4 / 55 ratings

Review Immortal

Oh my goodness, I'm absolutely buzzing about Sue Lynn Tan's Immortal! I initially hesitated because the narration in her previous audiobooks hadn't quite worked for me, but I'm so glad I took a chance on this one. The narrator, Natalie Naude, is phenomenal! She breathes life into the story, giving it the exact personality it needs to truly shine as an audiobook experience. It's captivating; I found myself completely immersed, struggling to put it down (or, in this case, pause it!).

The story itself is a stunning blend of romantic fantasy, political intrigue, and forbidden magic. Liyen, the young ruler of Tianxia, is a force to be reckoned with. She’s not your typical damsel-in-distress; she's fierce, intelligent, and fiercely protective of her people. She's also incredibly flawed, which makes her so relatable and human amidst the larger-than-life immortals. I loved her stubbornness, her passion, and her unwavering dedication to those she cares for. She's a truly refreshing heroine in a genre that sometimes falls into predictable tropes.

And then there's Zhangwei, the God of War. He's everything you'd expect from a brooding, powerful immortal, and more. Their enemies-to-lovers dynamic is deliciously slow-burn, filled with tension and simmering attraction. The way their relationship unfolds is both captivating and heartbreaking. He's not just a stoic, emotionless god; he's complex, vulnerable, and utterly obsessed with Liyen in a way that felt both intense and respectful. The scenes between them are electrifying – the unspoken tension, the subtle gestures, the palpable chemistry – it's all brilliantly executed.

The world-building is equally breathtaking. Tan's descriptive prose paints vivid pictures of the Immortal Realm, and the lush descriptions truly transport you to this magical land. The blend of Chinese mythology with Tan's unique creativity makes the setting feel both familiar and utterly original. The political machinations, the dangerous secrets, and the forbidden magic all contribute to a richly detailed and engaging narrative.

While some plot twists felt slightly predictable, it didn't detract from my overall enjoyment. The overall pacing is masterful; it’s slow enough to savor the romance and character development, but fast enough to keep you engaged throughout the entire experience. The resolution to the plot was satisfying and unexpected in its execution. And the way the characters navigate their personal journeys, along with the ever-present threat to their kingdom, kept me fully invested until the very end.

Overall, Immortal is a triumph. It's a beautiful, immersive, and emotionally resonant story that stays with you long after you finish. The combination of a compelling heroine, a captivating romance, intricate world-building, and superb narration makes this an absolute must-read (or listen!). I wholeheartedly recommend it to anyone who enjoys fantasy romance, especially those looking for a standalone read that doesn't shy away from exploring complex emotions and challenging relationships. Five out of five stars from me!