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Between the Shelves

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Review: In Deeper Waters

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Title: In Deeper Waters

Author: FT Lukens

Publisher: Simon & Schuster

Publication date: April 20, 2021

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In Deeper WatersSummary

Prince Tal is ready to get out and see his kingdom on his coming-of-age tour. For most of his life, he’s been kept inside the palace walls because he harbors a secret. He has magic. Magic that’s forbidden because the last time a ruler had magic, he almost destroyed the kingdom.

When they discover a prisoner on an abandoned ship, Athlen. Tal feels an immediate connection with him, so when Athlen disappears, Tal is heartbroken. At least, until Tal runs into him again at the market. Before anything can come from their connection, Tal is kidnapped by pirates in a plot to bring their kingdom to war. In order to save the kingdom, Tal has to escape. And Athlen is his only hope.

Review: In Deeper Waters

Thanks to Simon & Schuster for an advanced copy of this to review! I had heard some things about it on Instagram and admit I was intrigued! Plus, just look at the cover. It definitely is one  of those that makes you want to read it!

The characters are the strongest aspect of this book, by far. I immediately felt the chemistry between Tal and Athlen, and it just grew as we got more into the story. Tal’s relationship with his siblings also carries the story forward, as it’s clear they would do anything for each other. The overall core of the story is built on strong relationships that make up for some of the falters in the plot.

For me, the plot felt a little rocky throughout, maybe feeling a bit more drawn out than it needed to be. Some of the dialogue also didn’t quite feel natural. But, we could attribute that to this being a different world than ours.

Despite these faults, I loved this world that Lukens created, even if I could have done with a bit more detail. The idea of magic and the magical creatures felt fresh and unique, and the characters embodied these traits so well. You really get a lot about the world just from the ways that the characters interact.

All in all, this is a fun sea adventure that will have you flying through the pages. I know I did!

3.5/5 stars

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