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The Forest of Arrows #1
The Forest of Arrows: The Prince of Old Vynterra
IN A LAND WHERE MAGIC IS FORBIDDEN, AN ANCIENT EVIL HAS RETURNED
In the mystical kingdom of Old Vynterra and its surrounding territories, all magic has been banned for centuries, with magical beings forced to live apart from human lands. But when a group of adventurous friends encounter a mesmerizing forest while playing a daring game, and one of their own vanishes without a trace, they begin to suspect the forest may contain a mysterious power.
Amid increasingly deadly threats and the shocking return of long-extinct, terrifying creatures, the lifelong companions must work together to stay alive, find their lost friend, and unravel the ancient, dark mystery hiding in the Forest of Arrows.
In this spellbinding fantasy, V.F. Sharp takes readers of all ages on an exhilarating and mystifying adventure filled with rich history, exciting twists and turns, and colorful characters. The Forest of Arrows: The Prince of Old Vynterra is the first in a planned trilogy.
In the mystical kingdom of Old Vynterra and its surrounding territories, all magic has been banned for centuries, with magical beings forced to live apart from human lands. But when a group of adventurous friends encounter a mesmerizing forest while playing a daring game, and one of their own vanishes without a trace, they begin to suspect the forest may contain a mysterious power.
Amid increasingly deadly threats and the shocking return of long-extinct, terrifying creatures, the lifelong companions must work together to stay alive, find their lost friend, and unravel the ancient, dark mystery hiding in the Forest of Arrows.
In this spellbinding fantasy, V.F. Sharp takes readers of all ages on an exhilarating and mystifying adventure filled with rich history, exciting twists and turns, and colorful characters. The Forest of Arrows: The Prince of Old Vynterra is the first in a planned trilogy.
362 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 20, 2019
47 people are currently reading
434 people want to read
About the author
V.F. Sharp
2 books58 followersAs a celebrity hair stylist who has worked on many films and major motion pictures, V.F. Sharp is no stranger to entertainment. But in recent years, she's decided to follow her passion for the storytelling side of the business, a passion she's had since she was a young girl telling ghost stories to her family and friends.
The Forest of Arrows: The Prince of Old Vynterra is her debut novel and is the first in the Forest of Arrows trilogy. The concept for the entire trilogy came to her in a dream, and she hopes to inspire readers of all ages through this mystical tale of epic fantasy, infused with a touch of wonder, horror and suspense.
To stay up to date on Ms. Sharp’s work or to be the first to know when the next book in the trilogy is released, please visit her website at www.vfsharp.com, where you can sign up to receive email updates, as well as read other news about her writing and appearances.
The Forest of Arrows: The Prince of Old Vynterra is her debut novel and is the first in the Forest of Arrows trilogy. The concept for the entire trilogy came to her in a dream, and she hopes to inspire readers of all ages through this mystical tale of epic fantasy, infused with a touch of wonder, horror and suspense.
To stay up to date on Ms. Sharp’s work or to be the first to know when the next book in the trilogy is released, please visit her website at www.vfsharp.com, where you can sign up to receive email updates, as well as read other news about her writing and appearances.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews
August 16, 2019
An eclectic gang of village friends sneak into a forest to practice a harmless game of arrows, made illegal by the use of forbidden magic. What they find lurking there might just be the end of the humanlands, unless they can join forces with a prince and a land of legend.
Although following a well worn fantasy route, Sharp's debut novel is an absolute delight from start to finish. Drawing in the reader from the opening page, it gradually turns the screw, growing stronger and more compelling with each turning page.
The characters are easy to like, the sense of impending evil well handled and the world building elements fascinating. The giant rabbits as steeds are so appealing that I wanted to jump into the book to hug them.
Wonderful five star read, with a great ending that means I can't wait for book two.
Although following a well worn fantasy route, Sharp's debut novel is an absolute delight from start to finish. Drawing in the reader from the opening page, it gradually turns the screw, growing stronger and more compelling with each turning page.
The characters are easy to like, the sense of impending evil well handled and the world building elements fascinating. The giant rabbits as steeds are so appealing that I wanted to jump into the book to hug them.
Wonderful five star read, with a great ending that means I can't wait for book two.
December 28, 2019
It’s a wonderful effort for a first-timer, and had I read this story as a teen then I would have given it 5-stars.
My main complaint is that the author allowed her sentences to run wild! Anything longer than 5 or 6 lines for a single sentence is too much and will cause the readers to lose track (I counted that some sentences were three times as much!).
Also, the excessive word-building was an issue. You will find a description of every scene, every room, and even every hallway! Including places where no significant event happens at, or places designed for a passing event, never to be visited again… That was too much!
I understand that the author wanted to give a rich description of the environment, but she should have trusted her readers imagination more. And -for me- it ended up ruining much of the enjoyment.
Then we got the supporting characters (all of Ezstasia’s friends) who were awfully annoying!
For a group of close-knit friends looking for a girl lost in a dangerous forest, not to mention facing a life-or-death situation themselves, they sure were acting awfully happy, joking around, careless, and cared more about themselves than what may have happened to Ezstasia!
I even felt they were happy she was gone, and that their world was suddenly better off without her!
Add to that that the male characters, even the prince and his ferocious knights, were very much in touch with their feminine side and would not hesitate to shed tears at every chance they get! They also lacked any sexual desires and opted out for spiritual-connection instead!
That just didn’t sit right in an authoritarian world known to hang, behead, and give life sentences to teens who break the law!
And above all, PALLU BELONGS TO A COMIC BOOK! There is nothing real about his character at all, and I wish he just drop off the pages somehow!!! >.<
All the while, the female characters were all extraordinarily strong and dominant throughout the story O.o
The first 25% of the story was a struggle (thanks to Ezstasia’s friends!) but once I reached ch.7 the story picked up some pace and became much more interesting, which gave me a good push to go on.
I especially liked Ezstasia’s adventures whenever she wanders off alone, and I found the scene where she sneaks back into the prince’s library to be, simply put, fascinating.
The same can be said about Lanzzie, her character was very real and she has even more potential than her sister. I expected much from her but, unfortunately, she was unfairly overshadowed by her sister and didn’t get the spotlight she deserves.
I can only hope that Lanzzie keeps her character in isolation of any idealist interventions, and that the time she will spend alone with the prince will bring a major twist into the story.
My main complaint is that the author allowed her sentences to run wild! Anything longer than 5 or 6 lines for a single sentence is too much and will cause the readers to lose track (I counted that some sentences were three times as much!).
Also, the excessive word-building was an issue. You will find a description of every scene, every room, and even every hallway! Including places where no significant event happens at, or places designed for a passing event, never to be visited again… That was too much!
I understand that the author wanted to give a rich description of the environment, but she should have trusted her readers imagination more. And -for me- it ended up ruining much of the enjoyment.
Then we got the supporting characters (all of Ezstasia’s friends) who were awfully annoying!
For a group of close-knit friends looking for a girl lost in a dangerous forest, not to mention facing a life-or-death situation themselves, they sure were acting awfully happy, joking around, careless, and cared more about themselves than what may have happened to Ezstasia!
I even felt they were happy she was gone, and that their world was suddenly better off without her!
Add to that that the male characters, even the prince and his ferocious knights, were very much in touch with their feminine side and would not hesitate to shed tears at every chance they get! They also lacked any sexual desires and opted out for spiritual-connection instead!
That just didn’t sit right in an authoritarian world known to hang, behead, and give life sentences to teens who break the law!
And above all, PALLU BELONGS TO A COMIC BOOK! There is nothing real about his character at all, and I wish he just drop off the pages somehow!!! >.<
All the while, the female characters were all extraordinarily strong and dominant throughout the story O.o
The first 25% of the story was a struggle (thanks to Ezstasia’s friends!) but once I reached ch.7 the story picked up some pace and became much more interesting, which gave me a good push to go on.
I especially liked Ezstasia’s adventures whenever she wanders off alone, and I found the scene where she sneaks back into the prince’s library to be, simply put, fascinating.
The same can be said about Lanzzie, her character was very real and she has even more potential than her sister. I expected much from her but, unfortunately, she was unfairly overshadowed by her sister and didn’t get the spotlight she deserves.
I can only hope that Lanzzie keeps her character in isolation of any idealist interventions, and that the time she will spend alone with the prince will bring a major twist into the story.
December 26, 2019
Nop. I spent more than 30% of the book reading about people talking about rescuing somebody without actually doing it. Too many descriptions, and the writing style seems more directed to children than YA. Maybe if I had read this has a middle grade I would've been able to connect with it.
April 9, 2024
2024 Reads #216/250
3.5-3.75🌟
3.5-3.75🌟
April 20, 2019
Overall the book was good. It had an interesting plot, relatable characters, and adequate detailing. I would recommended this to my much younger cousin in grade school but not to someone past HighSchool. The sentences are riddled with subpar word choices and I found more than a handful of grammatical errors (I read this on my kindle, so the ebook may have more errors than the physical copy). I enjoy the idea of this story and the direction its headed, I just wish the execution was more satisfying. 3 stars as an Adult, but if I were to have read this when I was younger I'd give it 5 stars.
February 16, 2022
Overall really enjoyed this introduction to this new series by a new author! I want more depth/detail in the history of the world and the magic and the past war. All very interesting additions to the story. I am curious as to what is to come. Definitely will continue the series as soon as it’s released. I hope there is even more creepiness, battle, magic, and more creatures - which I have a feeling there will be more of that at least!! Basically I enjoyed the intro and want more destruction/darkness in book two haha!
December 1, 2019
I LOVED this book!!! It was so different than I expected and the surprises kept coming! I could visualize everything happening and hope this book is made into a movie some day! So so good. Cannot wait for book 2 of this incredible trilogy! V.F. Sharp did such an amazing job! She's an incredibly talented writer. I'm so glad I came across her and her book!
July 1, 2019
Interesting to see the next installment.
A fair storyline but lacking in depth. Hopefully the author will develop in time. I will await the next installment.
A fair storyline but lacking in depth. Hopefully the author will develop in time. I will await the next installment.
March 21, 2020
An interesting fantasy story that can be enjoyed by children and adults alike. Looking forward to reading the next installment.
April 15, 2019
A very well constructed fantasy story. It was so well constructed I read it in two days which is unusual for me. I was immediately pulled me in to a fast paced adventure with characters that were fun and well developed. Some of the creatures in particularly were really unique and well imagined. I especially enjoyed the world building. I’m a sucker for a magical forest after all. If you are too then I would thoroughly recommend this book – a great read for fantasy forest lovers everywhere. Or those just looking for a great fantasy story.
April 4, 2020
I think the crowning glory of this book's writing style is its strong narrative voice, which lends itself to making an intricate plot flow seamlessly. I found this book to be more plot-driven than character-driven (I could see an argument being made for the latter, but I think it was more the former), which is pretty conventional for most fantasy stories. And because of that, it took me back to the days when I was driving 10-12 hours and listening to my favorite audiobooks, and it reminded me of why I started reading fantasy in the first place. And it really made me wish this book was available to me back then, because I could see myself getting lost in the movie playing out in my head.
Aside from world-building, I also particularly enjoyed the relationships between the characters. Their friendships are just too pure for this world! And I think her style of writing also plays a role in how she constructed them, as well. Writing style preferences vary from person to person, but this one was definitely my cup of tea because the dialogues flowed so naturally that I was pulled straight into the story and felt like I was "among" them, which means I quickly became invested in what was happening as the plot progressed. So, without any spoilers, when they had their moments of confusion and panic, my pulse kicked up several notches too. It actually reminded me a bit of the Hobbit in many regards--and who knows, maybe this is a rising successor for the next generation? We'll find out!
Aside from world-building, I also particularly enjoyed the relationships between the characters. Their friendships are just too pure for this world! And I think her style of writing also plays a role in how she constructed them, as well. Writing style preferences vary from person to person, but this one was definitely my cup of tea because the dialogues flowed so naturally that I was pulled straight into the story and felt like I was "among" them, which means I quickly became invested in what was happening as the plot progressed. So, without any spoilers, when they had their moments of confusion and panic, my pulse kicked up several notches too. It actually reminded me a bit of the Hobbit in many regards--and who knows, maybe this is a rising successor for the next generation? We'll find out!
July 3, 2019
I remember before this book was released when it was just a couple of teaser chapters on an author's website. These first few chapters intrigued me, and I couldn't wait to read the rest. The author is a kind and creative woman with an inspiring life story that encourages perseverance and hope. She has put a lot of effort into this book and you can see it right from page 1. Now that I have read FoA, I can say it has great potential to be a fantasy series worth remembering. In some parts the pacing was slow, but you get a lot of focus on characters, which I think are the best part of a story. Most of the plot, I felt, might've been better as a shortened prelude chapter. I really wished the last few chapters of the book (and the teased adventure I'm guessing to be the story of a sequel) had been the heart of the story, because they were the most interesting and adventurous. Just when everything is getting really good, the reader is left on a cliffhanger. Overall, I thought this was a good story from a great author. Its what you'd expect of a general fantasy book, but I think its sequel will break the mold and make this series truly stand out from all of the other fantasy stories out there.
April 4, 2019
4.5
Here comes one of my long reviews: Sometimes I can't help it! Some books come so close to being 5 stars amazing and should be shouted about from rooftops but there's a little "thing" in them that I feel needs some...love......Proceed at your own risk.
I really enjoyed this book and finished it in somewhat of one sitting but it had just a few minor problems for me. It seems to be the same 2 things that bring down a potential 5 star book for me which is lack of character and/or world building. This is definitely a personal thing as some books I felt this was an issue with, most reviewers loved so take that in note. The Forest of Arrows actually did have amazing word building for the forest part but I wanted more out of the villages and beyond the forest. I'm hoping this will all be delved into in book 2 which I'm very anxious for. :)
I picked up this book at random and it was a really great read for a debut novel. I think the characters just needed a little..more..to them. The Forest of Arrows centered around the forest and the castle but I wanted to know why these kids/young adults(?) were living in cottages outside of the forest and away from everything else. There is a map in the book (squeeee) so I was curious about it. There is this huge dark magical forest separating the cottages, where the main characters live away from the castle and all the villages. Did I miss a part that mentioned WHY these cottages were segregated from the rest of civilization? Also, how old are these main characters? There are a slew of friends in this group some being siblings but I never learned about them as people. How old are they, where are their families, why are they living in tiny cottages and not in the villages by the castle on the other side of the forest?
The forest was definitely creepy and if you have a fear of spiders like me then be aware, that's all I'm saying about that LOL. There is a dragon (points from me for that) but not much of it in the book but one scene. I'm hoping for more in book 2.
The story was really fun though and I love that it came from a dream the author had. I have so many crazy dreams I wish I could get them written down for a book, but alas am not a writer so maybe one day someone will have a similar dream as I did and create a new unique story like this author did about it.
The Forest of Arrows reminded me of the Hazel Wood and White Stag. Not plot-wise but just in the fact that they are fast paced but I didn't really get invested into the characters that much. If you enjoyed those books you'll probably like this one. The writing was great and descriptions spot on but I was just missing the character connection out of those 2 books and this one. A lot of reviewers call this filler or plot drag but I love character filler so know I am in the minority here. If you liked Outlander let's say I wouldn't recommend this book until book 2 comes out and we see how things pan out.
Characters: I read this a couple of days ago and can only remember the prince, Miss Tee, Pallu, and Ezstasia. The prince has potential and I hope more of him comes out in book 2 but as of now he feels like almost a background character to me which sadly is most of this huge cast. I was hoping for a Cruel Prince type of thing going on here for him but that trope is far away from in book 1 at least. Aside from Pallu and Eztasia I think there is a set of twins? Eztasia has a sister in here, and then maybe another character or two as far as the group of friends go. Then you have the prince and his "crew"- Miss Tee and there are a few knights although I can't remember their names (I need to start flagging pages in my books).
Anyway, I hope book 2 comes out soon and digs into the characters more. There was plenty of action here but it wasn't that sense of urgency or concern since I didn't know anyone well except for Eztasia and Pallu. There was a near death experience in the beginning of the book from one of Eztasia's friends but it didn't bother me if he lived or died because I knew nothing about him really.
I loved the rabbits so much though! TIA!!! I need this book to blow up on social media so some artists and book boxes will do some artwork for it! I NEEEEED Tia and Eztasia on some sort of merch. Owl Crate Jr. could really market some fluffy rabbit items because this book would even work for middle grade depending on how the author is going to take the rest of the series. She could go either way. Market this as a YA and add more of the character/world into it, or go for the middle grade and just keep going as is. I have kids in both groups so either one would work. I read all genres and had no idea what this book was marketed for so it was HARD to review. I had this as a 4 star but upon writing this review, it really was an amazing book it just needs a little tweaking for my personal 5 star requirements. Plus none of these review sites gives you the option for half stars so I didn't want to drag it down to 4 for minor details. If the characters are more developed in book 2 this will totally be a re-read/series love potential for me. I am so used to binging books I don't review them until I'm done with the series or at least a couple books in the series before I review them so when I'm still waiting for a book 2 to release and I plan to read it that may sway my rating a little.
If I've missed anything in this review please let me know. I read this in a hospital waiting on my moms surgery so stopped and started multiple times during that day and may have missed something important although I think I did pretty good. If this book gets put in a genre I may change my review. I think for Middle Grade it's fine but for older readers they may need a little more in book 2 about the characters.
Whoever gives out ARCs I volunteer for book 2!!!!!
Here comes one of my long reviews: Sometimes I can't help it! Some books come so close to being 5 stars amazing and should be shouted about from rooftops but there's a little "thing" in them that I feel needs some...love......Proceed at your own risk.
I really enjoyed this book and finished it in somewhat of one sitting but it had just a few minor problems for me. It seems to be the same 2 things that bring down a potential 5 star book for me which is lack of character and/or world building. This is definitely a personal thing as some books I felt this was an issue with, most reviewers loved so take that in note. The Forest of Arrows actually did have amazing word building for the forest part but I wanted more out of the villages and beyond the forest. I'm hoping this will all be delved into in book 2 which I'm very anxious for. :)
I picked up this book at random and it was a really great read for a debut novel. I think the characters just needed a little..more..to them. The Forest of Arrows centered around the forest and the castle but I wanted to know why these kids/young adults(?) were living in cottages outside of the forest and away from everything else. There is a map in the book (squeeee) so I was curious about it. There is this huge dark magical forest separating the cottages, where the main characters live away from the castle and all the villages. Did I miss a part that mentioned WHY these cottages were segregated from the rest of civilization? Also, how old are these main characters? There are a slew of friends in this group some being siblings but I never learned about them as people. How old are they, where are their families, why are they living in tiny cottages and not in the villages by the castle on the other side of the forest?
The forest was definitely creepy and if you have a fear of spiders like me then be aware, that's all I'm saying about that LOL. There is a dragon (points from me for that) but not much of it in the book but one scene. I'm hoping for more in book 2.
The story was really fun though and I love that it came from a dream the author had. I have so many crazy dreams I wish I could get them written down for a book, but alas am not a writer so maybe one day someone will have a similar dream as I did and create a new unique story like this author did about it.
The Forest of Arrows reminded me of the Hazel Wood and White Stag. Not plot-wise but just in the fact that they are fast paced but I didn't really get invested into the characters that much. If you enjoyed those books you'll probably like this one. The writing was great and descriptions spot on but I was just missing the character connection out of those 2 books and this one. A lot of reviewers call this filler or plot drag but I love character filler so know I am in the minority here. If you liked Outlander let's say I wouldn't recommend this book until book 2 comes out and we see how things pan out.
Characters: I read this a couple of days ago and can only remember the prince, Miss Tee, Pallu, and Ezstasia. The prince has potential and I hope more of him comes out in book 2 but as of now he feels like almost a background character to me which sadly is most of this huge cast. I was hoping for a Cruel Prince type of thing going on here for him but that trope is far away from in book 1 at least. Aside from Pallu and Eztasia I think there is a set of twins? Eztasia has a sister in here, and then maybe another character or two as far as the group of friends go. Then you have the prince and his "crew"- Miss Tee and there are a few knights although I can't remember their names (I need to start flagging pages in my books).
Anyway, I hope book 2 comes out soon and digs into the characters more. There was plenty of action here but it wasn't that sense of urgency or concern since I didn't know anyone well except for Eztasia and Pallu. There was a near death experience in the beginning of the book from one of Eztasia's friends but it didn't bother me if he lived or died because I knew nothing about him really.
I loved the rabbits so much though! TIA!!! I need this book to blow up on social media so some artists and book boxes will do some artwork for it! I NEEEEED Tia and Eztasia on some sort of merch. Owl Crate Jr. could really market some fluffy rabbit items because this book would even work for middle grade depending on how the author is going to take the rest of the series. She could go either way. Market this as a YA and add more of the character/world into it, or go for the middle grade and just keep going as is. I have kids in both groups so either one would work. I read all genres and had no idea what this book was marketed for so it was HARD to review. I had this as a 4 star but upon writing this review, it really was an amazing book it just needs a little tweaking for my personal 5 star requirements. Plus none of these review sites gives you the option for half stars so I didn't want to drag it down to 4 for minor details. If the characters are more developed in book 2 this will totally be a re-read/series love potential for me. I am so used to binging books I don't review them until I'm done with the series or at least a couple books in the series before I review them so when I'm still waiting for a book 2 to release and I plan to read it that may sway my rating a little.
If I've missed anything in this review please let me know. I read this in a hospital waiting on my moms surgery so stopped and started multiple times during that day and may have missed something important although I think I did pretty good. If this book gets put in a genre I may change my review. I think for Middle Grade it's fine but for older readers they may need a little more in book 2 about the characters.
Whoever gives out ARCs I volunteer for book 2!!!!!
July 11, 2019
This was a lovely story! What I enjoyed most was the group of friends and their varied personalities, along with their interactions with one another. Sharp did a great job making each of these characters distinct from one another. I also really appreciated the creativity that went into describing the Valorian castle, which truly sounded magical. The adventure starts with an innocent (yet illegal) game in the forest that leads to a dangerous discovery that leads to trying to save a kingdom from evil forces. Entertaining and action-packed, it is reminiscent to The Chronicles of Narnia in that while adults and older teens can enjoy the story, the narrative style is more suitable for middle grade. I highly recommend to those who enjoy themes of friendship, honor, and courage in an action-packed tale.
February 28, 2025
An exciting read for the younger end of the YA audience. When a forbidden game of magic arrows goes terrifyingly wrong, a group of naïve and sheltered youngsters from the Cottages find themselves mixed up in dark magic shenanigans and a foe believed long vanquished from the land.
An entertaining read, but I was a little confused as to the intended target audience. The writing is simplistic and at times almost childlike, yet the book dealt with some dark themes and gory battle scenes, and it left me unsure what age it is intended for.
Nevertheless, for young readers enjoying clean and cosy fantasy with a large cast of “found family”, interesting world-building, and unusual fantasy creations (the giant bunnies were my favourite), then this would be a fun read. A solid 4 stars from me.
An entertaining read, but I was a little confused as to the intended target audience. The writing is simplistic and at times almost childlike, yet the book dealt with some dark themes and gory battle scenes, and it left me unsure what age it is intended for.
Nevertheless, for young readers enjoying clean and cosy fantasy with a large cast of “found family”, interesting world-building, and unusual fantasy creations (the giant bunnies were my favourite), then this would be a fun read. A solid 4 stars from me.
July 18, 2019
Hooked from page one!!
Fantasy is my favorite genre - always has been. Still, it takes a masterful storyline and credible characters to get and hold my attention. I found that here! The Forest of Arrows held me powerless in its clutches from the first page! Who can deny the allure of magic, especially ancient and forbidden magic! The game of arrows (I want to try it!), horse-sized rabbits you can ride, and the creepiest woods imaginable bring the reader into V F Sharp’s fantasy world with grins, spine tingles, and goose bumps page after page. I don’t want to give anything away, but I’ll just say... the river scene. Oh. My. God. Then the finale - the hair on my arms is still standing up! One last rant... have you ever seen a more beautifully designed cover? I love it! I can’t wait for the next book!
Fantasy is my favorite genre - always has been. Still, it takes a masterful storyline and credible characters to get and hold my attention. I found that here! The Forest of Arrows held me powerless in its clutches from the first page! Who can deny the allure of magic, especially ancient and forbidden magic! The game of arrows (I want to try it!), horse-sized rabbits you can ride, and the creepiest woods imaginable bring the reader into V F Sharp’s fantasy world with grins, spine tingles, and goose bumps page after page. I don’t want to give anything away, but I’ll just say... the river scene. Oh. My. God. Then the finale - the hair on my arms is still standing up! One last rant... have you ever seen a more beautifully designed cover? I love it! I can’t wait for the next book!
April 8, 2025
Good start to a series for a first time Author.
While I love a good world-building book it got to be a little much sometimes, I like to be able to use some imagination while reading but that’s OK. However, due to all the world-building the book was quite slow for the first 30-40%. Once the story and adventures took off it really picked up and drew me in and I couldn’t put it down. I truly hope to see some character growth in the next book of this trilogy, and am hopeful for more action/adventure going forward.
As for book 1 I will definitely reread and have suggested this book to a few people already.
While I love a good world-building book it got to be a little much sometimes, I like to be able to use some imagination while reading but that’s OK. However, due to all the world-building the book was quite slow for the first 30-40%. Once the story and adventures took off it really picked up and drew me in and I couldn’t put it down. I truly hope to see some character growth in the next book of this trilogy, and am hopeful for more action/adventure going forward.
As for book 1 I will definitely reread and have suggested this book to a few people already.
April 10, 2019
I had ordered a signed copy of this book, but I was so anxious to read it that I bought a digital copy as well. I’m so glad I did!! I LOVE this story. The descriptions of the characters, the places and the e landscape are so good. I have them all pictured in my mind as well as the descriptions of some of the trials and tribulations the characters go through from the beginning all the way to the end... I just couldn’t get enough. I am sooooo looking forward to the rest of the trilogy. I’m deeply invested in the characters and what happens to them.
August 19, 2019
The Forest of Arrows is a fun novel that offers a fun fantasy story that’s fresh and unique.
Imaginative and creative, V.F. Sharp, explores multiple perspectives twisting fantasy tropes in a fresh way. With several voices, my favorite were the strong women Sharp created. Additionally, she wrote wonderful action packed scenes that were exciting and full of tension.
I would have appreciated a more cohesive protagonist journey to follow, but certainly appreciated the fun multiple voices.
If you’re looking for an fantasy author this will be one to watch grow and develop.
Imaginative and creative, V.F. Sharp, explores multiple perspectives twisting fantasy tropes in a fresh way. With several voices, my favorite were the strong women Sharp created. Additionally, she wrote wonderful action packed scenes that were exciting and full of tension.
I would have appreciated a more cohesive protagonist journey to follow, but certainly appreciated the fun multiple voices.
If you’re looking for an fantasy author this will be one to watch grow and develop.
December 27, 2020
I picked up this book solely on it's cover and to my surprise it was a spellbinding trip into fantasy. I loved every second of it, but be advised it's geared of the YA crowd, though it was strong enough to pull an adult in. Once learning of the author's history (V.F Sharp) it makes the existence of the novel even more necessary.
For a debut novel, this is a strong attempt and I can not wait for book 2.
Makings of a pure epic!
5-Stars!!
For a debut novel, this is a strong attempt and I can not wait for book 2.
Makings of a pure epic!
5-Stars!!
October 18, 2025
I love to support new authors. I really wanted to like, if not love this book. As an adult this book is more for middle schoolers actually 3rd or 4th graders might enjoy it too. There are way too many characters in first chapter. I was hoping all but maybe 2 or 3 got killed off. The descriptions of rooms and characters were way too long and unnecessary. I bought the second book when I bought the first one and I honestly don’t have it in me to start it.
February 27, 2020
This book is an escapism for those who love fantasy and magical realism, the characters' descriptions were inspired by LOTR, when you are a reader who loves to read magical realism and young adult novels, this novel will really please you, the vivid description of trivial things may tire your patience, but otherwise, this is a good read in the genre of fantasy and magical realism.
July 3, 2019
Just finished this book and had to write a review because I loved every minute of it. If you like magic, mystery, strong friendships, and giant rabbits (yes, I said giant rabbits) then you’ll fall for this book. I can't wait to read more from VF Sharp!
November 5, 2021
I mostly skimmed this one. I wondered if it was for young readers because of the large bunnies? It kind of rambled and had phrases like Run Zander Run, and another one “sweet carrot sticks!” (Which sounds like for kids). I did make it to the end.
September 16, 2019
Where can one purchase a Tia? Asking for a friend 🥺
October 14, 2019
Oh my G. O. S. H. What an amazing book!!!!!!! Full video review to come!!!
May 19, 2020
It was such a good fantasy. There were advanture, magic and horror elements as well.
I enjoyed reading it so much. Cant wait to read the next one.
I enjoyed reading it so much. Cant wait to read the next one.
December 13, 2019
Could. Not. Put. Down!
I tried to drag this book out further but it was so good and just kept me guessing and wanting even more of it! Such a great debut novel! I can’t wait for book 2!!!!
I tried to drag this book out further but it was so good and just kept me guessing and wanting even more of it! Such a great debut novel! I can’t wait for book 2!!!!
June 13, 2019
The Forest of Arrows did NOT disappoint!!
While immersed 100% in this book, I felt like if I was experiencing everything the characters were! The descriptions of each event is so clear, so literally spellbinding, as a reader you almost feel like you yourself are THERE! I laughed, I cried, I was anxious and excited, I laughed some more.... One might think this book would be for a teenager... but, I’m almost 40 and this book had my emotions all over the place (that’s a good thing!!)!!!!
It’s clear that, between the game in the beginning and finding how to save their world at the end of the book, every character has a purpose. As an avid reader and someone obsessed with magical stories, I loved being able to read what happened to each character as if it were real time. I was so excited that V.F. Sharp didn’t leave her readers hanging, but instead lead her readers to each situation as it unfolded. Reading it all together when the group of friends reconvened, telling each other their experiences together, really brought the story to life!
I can’t imagine how challenging it would be to tackle the story line of so many characters, but I do know that Ms. Sharp did it with a finesse only a talented author like herself possibly could. She has truly opened another portal into the magic world—one beyond Harry Potter, Lord of the Rings, or even Narnia and I for one CANNOT WAIT for book 2!!!
“Is it almost done yet?!?”
While immersed 100% in this book, I felt like if I was experiencing everything the characters were! The descriptions of each event is so clear, so literally spellbinding, as a reader you almost feel like you yourself are THERE! I laughed, I cried, I was anxious and excited, I laughed some more.... One might think this book would be for a teenager... but, I’m almost 40 and this book had my emotions all over the place (that’s a good thing!!)!!!!
It’s clear that, between the game in the beginning and finding how to save their world at the end of the book, every character has a purpose. As an avid reader and someone obsessed with magical stories, I loved being able to read what happened to each character as if it were real time. I was so excited that V.F. Sharp didn’t leave her readers hanging, but instead lead her readers to each situation as it unfolded. Reading it all together when the group of friends reconvened, telling each other their experiences together, really brought the story to life!
I can’t imagine how challenging it would be to tackle the story line of so many characters, but I do know that Ms. Sharp did it with a finesse only a talented author like herself possibly could. She has truly opened another portal into the magic world—one beyond Harry Potter, Lord of the Rings, or even Narnia and I for one CANNOT WAIT for book 2!!!
“Is it almost done yet?!?”
March 29, 2019
I couldn't put this book down! I have read The Forest of Arrows all the way through and I already can't wait to read the second book of the trilogy! THANK YOU V.F. Sharp for putting your enthralling thoughts onto paper so that the rest of us can share in your creative mind.
Pallu is my favorite character and kept me literally laughing out loud throughout the entire book (and I don't usually do that!) Each character is so well developed and memorable that the reader can truly differentiate between all of them individually and their unique stories.
The story line included everything that a good book needs: friendship, magic, mystery, a peculiar antagonist, true adventure and cute, romantic relationships. It will keep both your heart and mind engaged on every page. The Forest of Arrows is unique and engaging and puts a fresh spin on the idea of young adult fantasy fiction. I love that it's family-friendly and can be passed around my home from reader to reader.
I highly recommend The Forest of Arrows! If you are a fan of fiction, I promise that you will love this book.
The Forest of Arrows: The Prince of Old Vynterra
Pallu is my favorite character and kept me literally laughing out loud throughout the entire book (and I don't usually do that!) Each character is so well developed and memorable that the reader can truly differentiate between all of them individually and their unique stories.
The story line included everything that a good book needs: friendship, magic, mystery, a peculiar antagonist, true adventure and cute, romantic relationships. It will keep both your heart and mind engaged on every page. The Forest of Arrows is unique and engaging and puts a fresh spin on the idea of young adult fantasy fiction. I love that it's family-friendly and can be passed around my home from reader to reader.
I highly recommend The Forest of Arrows! If you are a fan of fiction, I promise that you will love this book.
The Forest of Arrows: The Prince of Old Vynterra
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