Reviews

Struggling With the Current by A.R.K. Horton

wasauthor's review

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4.0

This novel tells the story of Eya, a princess from the small country of Hicares. Upon escaping her home during a war against Pescel.
In her debut novel, author A.R.K. Horton tells a tightly interwoven tale that introduces a disparate cast of characters that just so happen to be scattered across the world. It introduces its elements slowly, building mystery as it continues.
With a great cast of characters interspersed throughout the story, this novel is well worth a read.

printingbetweenthepages's review

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4.0

A fantasy war story that takes place between several countries in the world of Telverin, and Struggling With the Current, the first book in this trilogy was a wonderful way to start this story off.

Eya’s story certainly has a coming-of-age aspect to it, but seeing Eya’s character evolve as she becomes aware of her magical abilities seems to be the core focus of her character. She is a strong female protagonist that embodies so many different emotions but always perseveres. I felt connected to Eya’s character because of these qualities. I couldn’t wait to find out more about her past, her abilities, and her interactions with others.

Through this evolution of Eya’s character, we are introduced to a cast of interesting and equally intriguing characters. Some of these characters are friends to Eya and others are foes, and for some, the “jury is still out.”

The author’s writing style is quite enjoyable to read, and I love the creativity behind the fantasy aspects of the book. For example, there seems to be a nod to mythology which I really enjoyed. As another example, the magical elements are intriguing and add an element of suspense to the story line.

I enjoyed Struggling With the Current. I would recommend this book to others. For me, this book was a bit of a historical fiction piece melded with a fantasy piece. I think that readers who enjoy both the historical fiction and fantasy genres will really love this book!

emmeline_everdeen's review

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5.0

Took me a few chapters to get into the book but once I did I was so glad I kept reading. I enjoyed seeing Eya’s growth from an innocent sheltered princess into a strong independent woman. I definitely lived vicariously through Eya while reading this book. The author does an amazing job of developing the characters and the world they live in. I cannot wait to see what happens next.
I received this book from the author through Voracious Readers Only. I reviewed it because I enjoyed it.

t_ashley's review

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5.0

This is THE book of the year

And the book I never thought I needed to read. The way ARK built this world made it easy to catapult myself deep into Telverin. The characters, the imagery.. for this to be her first novel just puts me in awe. I am officially a fan. I cannot wait for the next book.

There is everything you need in this book: action, mystery, angst and a little bit of loving. Oh, and plenty of book boyfriends to choose from. Man, if you are looking for something to read, please pick this up. Fantasy has never looked so good.

Thank you for this book ARK!
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