Seeker

 

Seeker is the first book in a Regency/Napoleonic flintlock YA fantasy series by Samuel Griffin. Released 14th May 2024, it's 304 pages and is available in hardcover and ebook formats. It's worth noting that the ebook format has a handy interactive table of contents as well as interactive links and references throughout. For Kindle Unlimited subscribers, this book is currently included in the KU subscription library to borrow and read for free.

The author's command of language and precise usage are one of the book's highlights. The characters are very well rendered; fantasy archetypes (adventurers, mentors, young orphan "chosen one", evil unscrupulous antagonists) but nevertheless well written with moderate depth and believability. It's very much written in a period style, and fans of other narratives written during the actual period (Jane Eyre, Great Expectations, etc) will feel at home. For readers who prefer modern narratives, the writing will possibly be a slog. Diligence is repaid, however, and the story as a whole is well told and satisfying.

Coming of age fantasy adventure with political context. It's definitely got gravitas. It's the first book in an announced series, and it does end on a complete but open ended story arc, however there's no announced date for release on book 2 or future volumes.

Four stars. Worth a look for fans of immersively written period coming-of-age campaign fantasy. 

Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes.