Arx: City of Broken Minds

by Edmund Hurst

402 pages, Paperback

Published September 17, 2024

Reviews

[Lewis Spencer · Rating 5 out of 5]

In what is a first for me, I'm reviewing a book in which I actually know the author. This means I can attest to the quality and passion shown throughout this story from my days studying under Dr Hurst. The genre of Grimdark Fantasy is one I don't think I could ever tire of. Combine this with absolute astute academic skill and the sheer passion poured into every page, and you get Arx. It also means I know exactly what this review could do to his ego, but on this occasion, I believe he's earned the boost and then some.
This story is truly the culmination of years of development, crafted with clear, concise and complex ideas. It gives you the perfect amount of time to indulge in the worldbuilding, learn about each character, and not truly overwhelm with exposition. Given this is intended as a standalone experience, I am mightily impressed by how well Dr Hurst manages to keep everything interesting and fresh without it feeling too heavy. There is an argument to be made that a casual fantasy reader may not be able to fully enjoy the pacing, but as for someone who loves the themes and genre used, it only adds to the experience.
By far my favourite aspect of the story is the concepts exploring memory and it's affects, tangibility, and power. It's truly fascinating to see the author's perspective shown so clearly yet not unnaturally through the characters, who themselves all feel so alive and well thought out.
Genuinely a fantastic and intriguing experience for an academic reader.
You really did it, Ed. Now please write more!

10/10

[Sophie Mae · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a really fun book! I love a good utilisation of various character’s perspectives and I think using this has made the book so much more impactful and interesting!

The characters were so well-rounded with complex backgrounds and motives to drive them through the plot. Also, whilst this might be controversial, I LOVED the third person close perspective used throughout. I feel like it fit with the book really well!

[Kelly Chin · Rating 5 out of 5]

With a rich plot and complex characters, Hurst’s writing draws readers into this highly original story, which beautifully encapsulates moments of tension and ambition. Truly an engrossing and compelling read!

[MaryEMcReynolds · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a fun exploration of special memory I often play geometry dash scratch for an experience like this book promises a rich experience with complex characters and an engaging plot that will keep you glued to your seat!

[aspeccharactersoftheday]

Samantha from Arx: City of Broken Minds is asexual!

https://www.tumblr.com/aspeccharacter...

[Emma · Rating 4 out of 5]

Though the author is wonderful, I know people prefer honesty. Honestly... so far, it's mad. But I like anything with a bit of zest. It breaks 'rules of writing' with a choc full of ellipsis' in and around the first few chapters, used in an effective way. You're never bored. It flits around from pillar to post and that's just breaking through the trickling threads (copyright me, I said it first ). Read in full. Took a little while. The chapters built into smaller sections - that worked for me. I am not someone for action-packed scenes over-spilling a large amount of a book. But... there was balance. The tricky relationships felt less 'tropey' than I have experienced in other books and seemed to overthrow my usual idea to turn away from the action-scenes. Truthfully, I did my best to skim over the action-scenes which were revolving around fighting. Honestly, I was glad to have persevered!
Well-met, this book is read. Other people? Yes, you. Read it.
Meanwhile, I await more of your writing. More of the psychological inter-play please.