Torment (Fallen, #2) Summary & Key Insights

Lauren Kate's Torment, the second book in the Fallen series, continues the tumultuous romance between Luce, a fallen angel, and Daniel, a mysterious and captivating fallen angel. Picking up immediately after the events of Fallen, Luce finds herself grappling with the aftermath of her near-death experience and the revelation of Daniel's true nature. Their forbidden love is further complicated by the looming presence of the other fallen angels at Sword & Cross, the school they attend, and the increasingly dangerous game played by the powerful and enigmatic Cam.

The primary plot revolves around Luce's struggle to understand her own identity and destiny. She's haunted by fragmented memories and visions, struggling to reconcile her human existence with her angelic past. These visions reveal glimpses of her past life in Heaven and the events that led to her fall, adding another layer of mystery to her already complicated existence. Simultaneously, Daniel's true nature as a fallen angel is slowly unveiled, revealing his complex relationship with Lucifer and the consequences of his rebellion.

The central conflict remains Luce and Daniel's relationship, constantly threatened by external forces and internal struggles. Their forbidden love is tested by Daniel's increasingly erratic behaviour, fuelled by his own tumultuous emotions and the manipulation of other fallen angels. Cam, a charming yet manipulative fallen angel, poses a constant threat, attempting to exploit Luce and sow discord between her and Daniel. His actions drive a wedge between the couple, fostering uncertainty and doubt in Luce's mind about Daniel's loyalty and true feelings.

The overarching theme of Torment is the exploration of forbidden love and its destructive consequences. Luce and Daniel's relationship is portrayed as a powerful, yet ultimately self-destructive force, mirroring the destructive nature of rebellion and the consequences of defying fate. The book also delves into the themes of free will versus predestination, exploring the extent to which Luce and Daniel can control their own destinies in the face of their angelic heritage. The characters' struggles with their identities and pasts are central to the narrative, highlighting the importance of self-discovery and acceptance.

Other key characters, like Arriane, a fallen angel with ambiguous loyalties, and Roland, a seemingly benevolent figure with a hidden agenda, contribute to the complex web of relationships and further complicate the central conflict. The setting of Sword & Cross remains a crucial element, serving as both a sanctuary and a prison for the fallen angels, reflecting the internal conflicts raging within the characters themselves. Torment leaves the reader on a cliffhanger, raising the stakes and setting the stage for further exploration of Luce and Daniel's destiny in the subsequent installments of the series.