When the Sky Fell on Splendor by Emily Henry is a heartfelt and atmospheric coming-of-age novel that beautifully captures the essence of teenage friendships, first loves, and the magic of the unknown.
| Title | When the Sky Fell on Splendor |
| Author | Emily Henry |
| Genre | Fantasy, Fiction, Mystery |
| Language | English |
| Publication Date | March 12, 2019 |
| Length | 352 pages |
Where to Purchase
Book Summary
Welcome to Splendor, a small town in Ohio where nothing much ever happens, at least until the night of the Perseid meteor shower. For a group of teenage friends who call themselves the “Mercury Six,” that night becomes a moment of destiny and transformation.
The Mercury Six consists of Franny, the quirky and imaginative narrator; her brother Arthur, a budding scientist with a penchant for tracking celestial events; Patrick, the charismatic and adventurous leader; Lucas, the quiet and thoughtful artist; Sofia, the no-nonsense and fiercely loyal best friend; and Terra, the mysterious and enigmatic newcomer.
As the meteor shower lights up the sky, the group gathers at an abandoned church to witness the celestial spectacle. But when a massive explosion rocks the church, it changes everything. The friends are left with fragmented memories of the event and an eerie sense that something otherworldly occurred.
Months later, as they piece together the events of that fateful night, they discover that they’ve developed strange and inexplicable abilities. Franny has visions of a mysterious boy, Lucas can see auras, Patrick can manipulate electrical devices, and Arthur’s obsession with tracking the unknown intensifies.
As the Mercury Six navigate the challenges of high school and their evolving friendships, they are drawn back to the church where their lives changed forever. There, they uncover hidden secrets, encounter unexplained phenomena, and ultimately confront the truth about what happened during the meteor shower.
Their journey becomes one of self-discovery, as they grapple with their newfound powers, the mysteries of the universe, and the complexities of growing up. Along the way, they also explore themes of family, identity, love, and the enduring power of friendship.
Book Review
“When the Sky Fell on Splendor” is a gem of a novel that captures the essence of adolescence and the enchantment of the unknown. Emily Henry weaves a narrative that is equal parts coming-of-age story, supernatural mystery, and exploration of the unexplained.
Franny, the narrator, is a character who immediately feels like an old friend. Her voice is relatable, witty, and filled with the kind of youthful wonder that reminds us of our own teenage years. Her introspective musings on life, friendship, and the mysteries of the universe add depth and authenticity to the story.
The Mercury Six, each with their own unique abilities and quirks, are a delightful ensemble. Henry excels at portraying the dynamics of teenage friendships—the inside jokes, the deep bonds, and the occasional clashes of personalities. Their journey of self-discovery is beautifully depicted, and you can’t help but become emotionally invested in their individual struggles and collective quest for answers.
The small town of Splendor is brought to life with vivid descriptions that evoke a sense of nostalgia and longing. It’s the kind of town where everyone knows everyone else’s business, yet it holds secrets of its own. The abandoned church, with its air of mystery and the promise of otherworldly encounters, serves as a central and captivating setting throughout the story.
The supernatural elements in the novel are both intriguing and enigmatic. Emily Henry skillfully blends science and the unexplained, inviting readers to ponder the mysteries of the universe alongside the characters. The sense of wonder and curiosity that permeates the narrative is one of its most endearing qualities.
One of the standout aspects of “When the Sky Fell on Splendor” is its exploration of family dynamics. Franny’s relationship with her brother Arthur, in particular, is a highlight. Their bond is both heartwarming and complex, and it adds depth to the story as they grapple with their shared experiences and evolving abilities.
The themes of love and first romance are delicately woven into the narrative. Franny’s feelings for Lucas, the quiet artist with his own hidden depths, are portrayed with authenticity and tenderness. It’s a love story that unfolds slowly, mirroring the uncertainty and vulnerability of adolescence.
As the story hurtles toward its climax, the tension builds, and the mysteries of Splendor are revealed. The resolution is both poignant and thought-provoking, leaving you with a sense of wonder and a desire to gaze up at the stars and contemplate the unknown.
“When the Sky Fell on Splendor” is a beautifully written and emotionally resonant novel that captures the magic of youth and the allure of the unexplained. Emily Henry’s prose is both lyrical and down-to-earth, making it a joy to read. This book is a testament to the enduring power of friendship, the mysteries of the universe, and the transformative nature of adolescence. If you’re looking for a story that will transport you to a world where anything is possible, and where the bonds of friendship and love are unbreakable, then look no further. “When the Sky Fell on Splendor” is a celestial masterpiece that will leave you with a sense of wonder long after you’ve turned the final page.
