Book Review: In Deeper Waters by F.T. Lukens

 

In Deeper Waters
F.T. Lukens
Release date: 20th April 2021
★★★★

Prince Tal has long awaited his coming-of-age tour. After spending most of his life cloistered behind palace walls as he learns to keep his forbidden magic secret, he can finally see his family’s kingdom for the first time. His first taste of adventure comes just two days into the journey when their crew discovers a mysterious prisoner on a burning derelict vessel.

Tasked with watching over the prisoner, Tal is surprised to feel an intense connection with the roguish Athlen. So when Athlen leaps overboard and disappears, Tal feels responsible and heartbroken, knowing Athlen could not have survived in the open ocean.

That is, until Tal runs into Athlen days later on dry land, very much alive, and as charming—and secretive—as ever. But before they can pursue anything further, Tal is kidnapped by pirates and held ransom in a plot to reveal his rumored powers and instigate a war. Tal must escape if he hopes to save his family and the kingdom. And Athlen might just be his only hope.

This was so adorable and intriguing. The premise sounded so promising and it definitely delivered.

The characters were so loveable. I adored Tal and Athlen. Especially Athlen, he’s such a sweetheart. Especially his relationship with Dara. And even the easy casual tone he has with Tal. But more than that I really loved the side characters and the siblings' dynamics. There are 5 siblings with Tal being the second youngest. It’s the perfect playful banter and the teasing and competitiveness of the siblings. Usually, there are 2 siblings and always seem to be at each other's throat, and it could be that but a lot of times it’s more chilled and I think this book gets it. Also, their mom raised all these five children alone all while ruling a kingdom successfully. She’s killing the queen game.

             

This is all characters driven, and Tal while was a pretty great character he was also a really flawed character. Yes, he’s caring and bright but he also second guesses himself and his power and there is a lot of character growth over the book. Still, he’s not perfect and super powerful and in control of everything at the end, and that there is still a lot of space for growth. And it’s a really great ending.

The writing is really simple, not over the top flowery while still being consistent throughout the book. I would have loved more explanation of magic but it was also explained really well for a standalone. It could have been longer and I probably still would have finished it in a single reading. 

This was such an anticipated read and I'm so glad I got a chance to read it and review it.

Thank you to Edelweiss, the author, and the publisher, Margaret K. McElderry Books for providing me with an e-arc for an honest review.