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Through Hell and Highwater #1
Through Hell & Highwater
Through Hell & Highwater, is a magical action-packed adventure that features a group of unlikely companions comprised of different types of fantastic creatures that normally wouldn't cohabitate, let alone be friends.
The group's anchor, a dainty little elf named Evyline, is admired for her bravery, tenacity, and concern for others over herself. Different circumstances and previous relationships brings the group to secure their unsuspected partnership while attending Volo Noscere University.
While in attendance at the university, a series of seemingly natural disasters have occurred in their homes. The band of students have set off to embark on a deadly journey in hopes of solving the mystery of the attacks.
The journey is very dangerous and their lives are at stake, but if they don't try to do something, the lives of the entire world that they know could meet destruction. Of the group of students, Evyline initially turned out to be the most overlooked among the group because of her petite stature and mild-manners, but they, and many of the professors at Volo Noscere, are learning that little Evyline is more powerful than anyone anticipated.
The group's anchor, a dainty little elf named Evyline, is admired for her bravery, tenacity, and concern for others over herself. Different circumstances and previous relationships brings the group to secure their unsuspected partnership while attending Volo Noscere University.
While in attendance at the university, a series of seemingly natural disasters have occurred in their homes. The band of students have set off to embark on a deadly journey in hopes of solving the mystery of the attacks.
The journey is very dangerous and their lives are at stake, but if they don't try to do something, the lives of the entire world that they know could meet destruction. Of the group of students, Evyline initially turned out to be the most overlooked among the group because of her petite stature and mild-manners, but they, and many of the professors at Volo Noscere, are learning that little Evyline is more powerful than anyone anticipated.
289 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 8, 2020
4 people are currently reading
47 people want to read
About the author
Victoria Liiv
12 books162 followersVictoria Liiv is a writer, reader, nature lover and traveler at heart. She has been traveling through magical worlds since a very young age and wants more than anything to share the wonder with everyone else eager to escape from all things mundane. Let it be a magical adventure through slowly darkening Earth or a soul crushing fight for survival and love while the world burns. Sometimes all it takes is a little bit of romance.
She self published her debut novel Through Hell & Highwater on 2020 when the pandemics keeping her isolated gave her the reason to follow her dream of becoming an author. She hasn’t looked back since.
Afterworld: Road to Redemption is Victoria’s second novel. She is grateful for the opportunity to be able to co-write it with Olivia.
This February 2023, she’ll also be releasing Treasure Me, a contemporary romance, as part of Tease Me box set.
With many more ideas and characters keeping her awake at night this is only the beginning of her writing career.
In her everyday life she found the magic in her partner, who gave her courage to move out of Estonia, the country she was born in, to an equally small but more known The Netherlands. He was also the one who encourages and supports her throughout her writing process.
https://linktr.ee/VicWritesBooks
She self published her debut novel Through Hell & Highwater on 2020 when the pandemics keeping her isolated gave her the reason to follow her dream of becoming an author. She hasn’t looked back since.
Afterworld: Road to Redemption is Victoria’s second novel. She is grateful for the opportunity to be able to co-write it with Olivia.
This February 2023, she’ll also be releasing Treasure Me, a contemporary romance, as part of Tease Me box set.
With many more ideas and characters keeping her awake at night this is only the beginning of her writing career.
In her everyday life she found the magic in her partner, who gave her courage to move out of Estonia, the country she was born in, to an equally small but more known The Netherlands. He was also the one who encourages and supports her throughout her writing process.
https://linktr.ee/VicWritesBooks
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews
December 27, 2020
Through Hell and Highwater tells a story from multiple perspectives of students at a magical academy called Volo Noscere. It's located in a world very much like ours, and definitely in modern times though the characters are orcs, vampires, and faes to name a few. As a D&D fan and occasional player, this reminded me much of putting a group together at the start of an adventure. I enjoyed reading about the different characters and seeing their perspectives.
I liked the author's clear, unique voice and style with a lot of snarky and sassy tones. The tone doesn't change much depending on which character we are following, so that might bother someone. I liked it. I would have actually loved the narrator to make more comments like this: "RocTar, grunted and nodded. What a fascinating personality." I really adore this kind of commentary.
All characters have their own stuff to worry about and their personas, and most of them have something going on I can relate to even if I'm maybe a little old to be in the target audience. Though, I found myself definitely developing more sympathy for some while disliking others due to their personalities. My favorite has to be Lisanna. She may not always succeed, she has doubts, a somewhat unhealthy obsession for a certain vampire, and absolutely no sense of danger, but she is also spunky and fun.
Overall, there's always something going on which makes the book an enjoyable adventure journey with excitement and laughs. Lisanna and the wolves have an entertaining dynamic I especially liked. The reason this isn't a 5 star read for me oddly enough stems from the same thing. There's so much going on between the students that the suspense doesn't build as much as I'd like it to regarding the adversities they face. I never feared for them during their journeys. However, I realize, this isn't the kind of book where tragedy strikes hard. It's an entertaining, fun frolick where the heroes go from one adventure to the next trying to piece the larger picture together, and it's very good in exactly that.
In summary, I'd recommend the book to anyone who wants a wonderful distraction from their daily lives. Definitely a very promising first book, and will be glad to read more from the author.
I liked the author's clear, unique voice and style with a lot of snarky and sassy tones. The tone doesn't change much depending on which character we are following, so that might bother someone. I liked it. I would have actually loved the narrator to make more comments like this: "RocTar, grunted and nodded. What a fascinating personality." I really adore this kind of commentary.
All characters have their own stuff to worry about and their personas, and most of them have something going on I can relate to even if I'm maybe a little old to be in the target audience. Though, I found myself definitely developing more sympathy for some while disliking others due to their personalities. My favorite has to be Lisanna. She may not always succeed, she has doubts, a somewhat unhealthy obsession for a certain vampire, and absolutely no sense of danger, but she is also spunky and fun.
Overall, there's always something going on which makes the book an enjoyable adventure journey with excitement and laughs. Lisanna and the wolves have an entertaining dynamic I especially liked. The reason this isn't a 5 star read for me oddly enough stems from the same thing. There's so much going on between the students that the suspense doesn't build as much as I'd like it to regarding the adversities they face. I never feared for them during their journeys. However, I realize, this isn't the kind of book where tragedy strikes hard. It's an entertaining, fun frolick where the heroes go from one adventure to the next trying to piece the larger picture together, and it's very good in exactly that.
In summary, I'd recommend the book to anyone who wants a wonderful distraction from their daily lives. Definitely a very promising first book, and will be glad to read more from the author.
January 9, 2022
~I'd like to thank the awesome author for sending me a free copy in exchange for my honest review!~
Y'all, grab your wizarding hats, wands, and spell books.
Calling all Harry Potter fans, because this book gave me MAJOR HP vibes!
I went into this book expecting one of those "we're going on an adventure" fantasy books, but, instead, we got (something like) Hogwarts!! How cool is that?! Imagine if the HP and Hotel Transylvania worlds merged together, and that's basically what you get in this book.
I loved how the author told the story through multiple different points of view, and how that affected the plot. It was all very well balanced and well done.
All in all, I really enjoyed this book, and I liked it a lot more than I thought I would. With a great plot, characters, and writing style, this book definitely deserves 5 stars!
Recommended!
~Full Review To Come~
Y'all, grab your wizarding hats, wands, and spell books.
Calling all Harry Potter fans, because this book gave me MAJOR HP vibes!
I went into this book expecting one of those "we're going on an adventure" fantasy books, but, instead, we got (something like) Hogwarts!! How cool is that?! Imagine if the HP and Hotel Transylvania worlds merged together, and that's basically what you get in this book.
I loved how the author told the story through multiple different points of view, and how that affected the plot. It was all very well balanced and well done.
All in all, I really enjoyed this book, and I liked it a lot more than I thought I would. With a great plot, characters, and writing style, this book definitely deserves 5 stars!
Recommended!
~Full Review To Come~
February 12, 2021
If these random images have stirred your interests, it’s more likely that Victoria Liiv's “Through Hell and Highwater” will stimulate your curiosity to read her book!
Victoria in her maiden attempt at a new urban fantasy, with adventure and a strong dose of magical realism, has beautifully depicted the heroic action sequences by a venturesome group of students of Volo Noscere University in Rome. The story targeting readers of mentioned genres, revolves around an unpredictable fictional alternate world hidden from the human eye. It operates with its own magical community and separate media channels, thus unmindful of the dangerous happenings in the real world. Some in their community believe it is a magical attack, whereas others perceive that it could be human-made.
Now to save the world from destruction, a group of students of a magical school from the University must unite and overcome some life-threatening challenges, despite all the calamities surrounding them, while untangling a mystery. They learn adversity is a great schoolmaster.
Magical Elf Evyline, Shapeshifter Lisanna, Wizard Tylon, Vampire Finley, Orc RocTar, Werewolf Dylan are some of the compelling characters who strengthen the storyline and keep the book vibrant.
Victoria towards laying a strong foundation devotes considerable time to vividly develop the characters and their various personality traits -- Evyline: “I was not meant to be hurting anyone or anything, even if they were trying to hurt me."; Tylon: “Evyline is my mentee. I would hate to see something happen to her.”; RocTar, who likes the sound of not talking: ”he knew he could trust his friends when he was in trouble.” The story is filled with happenings when everyone has a friend who laughs funnier than he jokes.
I liked Victoria’s fondness to develop the motivation of all the important characters.
Victoria has delved into deep friendship formations and genuine emotions. I enjoyed how the characters had split into their own groups as it typically happens in a school environment. Some characters are loquacious, whereas some are laconic. I found the most believable character in Evyline – ‘down-to-earth’ personality! It is good to study Evyline’s characterisation carefully, to see how the young elf manages the complicated situations and saves her friends as a drowning person will clutch at a straw. I could feel pity for Evyline sometimes. However, the character development process also left an impression on me, that the story is gaining momentum quite slowly.
I enjoyed Victoria’s unique and effective style in advancing the story smartly with interesting paradoxes as well: "What he doesn’t know won’t hurt him”; "Are you coming or what? … Lisanna hissed at them, and it echoed back 'coming or what', 'or what', 'what' off the walls, bringing goosebumps on her skin.”
The world-building is splendid, with well-depicted scenes, characterisations, and places: -- Nice lines: “anger is not a weapon, it is a weakness and will always be a disadvantage in a fight.” -- Portrayals of typical day-to-day happenings: "For a moment she had felt like they could relate to each other in a way two people did after learning they have a lot in common." -- Good imaginations sprinkled throughout the storyline: “… the older Fairy should have retired long ago”; “the vampire was wearing pyjamas.”
Victoria’s picturesque narratives, elaborating on various magical spells are excellent. Her simplicity of dialogues only made the book better. The smooth story-flow enabled page-turning. Humorous interactions among students are indeed a treat for readers. Furthermore, Victoria’s love for nature is easily decipherable from her fluent descriptions about plants, which also glues the readers into the story.
Well, I felt, an interesting plot could have been more carefully crafted to make it earth-shattering! I was disappointed with: cliché episodes; unprofessional editing; some portrayals remain underdeveloped thereby not enough to strengthen the storyline; sometimes too much ‘talk’ than ‘show’; unclear big picture - missed the forest for the trees.
However, the book is an enjoyable read as many adorable features mask the flaws. Initially, I reckoned it as any mundane school story - only instead of humans, filled with magical beings. However, it surely made a difference. As the story progressed, I could gauge Victoria’s potential and I understood that she has laid a strong foundation for the sequel of her 1st book. For a maiden effort, I must say, it is great.
I look forward to seeing how Victoria would resolve the untied ends, and I am especially excited to see how the team of students is going to achieve that.
In essence, I am satisfied with the book's good entertainment value. Victoria has set the stage for something bigger, for the next book, to resolve certain inherent puzzles in this book. Certainly!
January 22, 2021
I enjoyed this book very very much. I loved the magic realm and all the charicters were awesomely developed. I recommend it to all.
Thanks to the author who gave me a free coppy for a review.
Be Blessed.
Thanks to the author who gave me a free coppy for a review.
Be Blessed.
March 17, 2021
Through Hell and Highwater is the first book in the new series by Victoria Liiv. It's set in a magical academy named "Volo Noscere" with modern themes mashed with the supernatural. You get practically any paranormal being in this school which I thought was fun and entertaining. The author's writing has plenty of witty humor, creative world-building on top of ours, likable characters (told in many different POVs) and plenty of school drama.
February 18, 2021
Victoria Liiv's, Through Hell & Highwater, is a magical action-packed adventure that features a group of unlikely companions comprised of different types of fantastic creatures that normally wouldn't cohabitate, let alone be friends. The groups anchor, a dainty little elf named Evyline, is admired for her bravery, tenacity, and concern for others over herself. Different circumstances and previous relationships brings the group to secure their unsuspected partnership while attending Volo Noscere University. Evyline initially turned out to be the most overlooked among the group because of her petite stature and mild-manners, but they, and many of the professors at Volo Noscere, are learning that little Evyline is more powerful than anyone anticipated.
This story kept me flipping the pages into the wee hours of the night and early morning. A sprinkle of Harry Potter, Twilight, Percy Jackson, and Lord of the Rings, this story definitely fills your fantasy tank with a ride of thrills and I can't wait to read the next one! If you haven't read the brilliant writing of Victoria Liiv, then you definitely want to read this book!
This story kept me flipping the pages into the wee hours of the night and early morning. A sprinkle of Harry Potter, Twilight, Percy Jackson, and Lord of the Rings, this story definitely fills your fantasy tank with a ride of thrills and I can't wait to read the next one! If you haven't read the brilliant writing of Victoria Liiv, then you definitely want to read this book!
January 13, 2021
“Through Hell and Highwater” caught me by surprise. I was really intrigued by the whole book never once bored. It reminded me a lot of Harry Potter at first mixed with mortal instruments. This book has a diverse range of characters which did a really good job going into each character and they’re lives. But it left me with questions like what about the 4th artifact piece? Which is why I guess there is a second book! I did find a few grammar errors. But overall I really loved this book and it is probably one of my overall favorites now. I can’t wait to be able to read the second part! This book really needs to be picked up by a publisher. I think with the right publicity this book will soar.
February 21, 2021
I wanted to read something like Harry Potter or something that was set in a magical realm and this was the perfect book to read. I love all the magical characters and their own powers. Every character has their own problems and their way of living. I love that all the characters came together and became somewhat of a quest group. This world really reminds me of Harry Potter and Lord of the rings/the hobbit. The University that is called Volo Noscere reminded me a little bit of the school in the Netflix series Fate the Winx saga. I really enjoyed the writing style and how the book looks like. I didn't expect that the book would be this heavy.
I would highly recommend this book and I'm looking forward to the second book.
I would highly recommend this book and I'm looking forward to the second book.
March 28, 2021
Overall, this was a solid story. I enjoyed the concept (very Happy Potter meets Fae feels) and the diverse range of characters. Even though there are a lot of characters involved, the author sticks to POV from only a few. Great call, because anymore and the book would feel more chaotic. The writing is a little stiff in the beginning and the dialogue is very formal for what you’d expect from a group of college students, but once the quest portion of the story unfolded the narrative smoothed out. There is a little bit of steam and romance throughout, which is always a plus. I’m excited to continue the story!
August 15, 2021
Through Hell & Highwater is a YA-Urban Fantasy that follows a bunch of unique characters as they attend a magical school in Rome called Volo Noscere. Evyline, an elf is at the centre of this group which takes it upon themselves to investigate (and then solve) the mysterious happenings in the world that they live in.
The writing is expansive and articulate. This helps a lot in world-building which is really great. It's not complicated nor is too direct. Liiv is able to balance it well and give us something which to me felt a lot like The Mortal Instruments meets Harry Potter meets Winx Saga (Netflix). And I am not complaining. It was so amazing!
The characters are also of different species - faes, vampires, elves and whatnot - so there is a lot of scope for diversity and exploration.
The external conflict ties neatly into the character arcs given to each of the members of the group and it's satisfying to see. There are of course some questions which you don't find the answers to, so I am hoping she covers them in future books!
All in all, this was a fun, quick and interesting read! I can't wait for BOOK 2 !!
Thank you to the author for providing me with a review copy.
The writing is expansive and articulate. This helps a lot in world-building which is really great. It's not complicated nor is too direct. Liiv is able to balance it well and give us something which to me felt a lot like The Mortal Instruments meets Harry Potter meets Winx Saga (Netflix). And I am not complaining. It was so amazing!
The characters are also of different species - faes, vampires, elves and whatnot - so there is a lot of scope for diversity and exploration.
The external conflict ties neatly into the character arcs given to each of the members of the group and it's satisfying to see. There are of course some questions which you don't find the answers to, so I am hoping she covers them in future books!
All in all, this was a fun, quick and interesting read! I can't wait for BOOK 2 !!
Thank you to the author for providing me with a review copy.
August 21, 2021
“Through Hell & Highwater” introduces multiple characters and their experiences while attending a magical school, Volo Noscere University in Rome, Italy. The students have to come together to work on an assignment from Professor Eyorn that brings them in search of artifacts that have been strewn around the world.
Overall, I enjoyed Through Hell & Highwater. It reminded me of a combination of Harry Potter and The Goonies. A group of young adults trying to find their way into adulthood while struggling with developing their own powers is a story I think that most can relate to (not the powers part, but you get my point). The multiple points of view allow for insight into each of the characters and gives them a chance to shine on their own. The story is also action packed and moves along quickly, making for an entertaining ride. Two things kept me from giving this story five feathers. First, there were parts of the book that contradicted itself. They were more small editing things, but they were still there. Second, the ending was an absolute cliffhanger and as I’ve said in other reviews, I’m not a fan. Having said that, this tale was fun and refreshing and I would definitely be interested in finding out what happens to all these characters in the future.
The full blog post can be found here: https://heatherlbarksdale.com/blog/bl...
I received a copy of this story in exchange of a fair and honest review.
Overall, I enjoyed Through Hell & Highwater. It reminded me of a combination of Harry Potter and The Goonies. A group of young adults trying to find their way into adulthood while struggling with developing their own powers is a story I think that most can relate to (not the powers part, but you get my point). The multiple points of view allow for insight into each of the characters and gives them a chance to shine on their own. The story is also action packed and moves along quickly, making for an entertaining ride. Two things kept me from giving this story five feathers. First, there were parts of the book that contradicted itself. They were more small editing things, but they were still there. Second, the ending was an absolute cliffhanger and as I’ve said in other reviews, I’m not a fan. Having said that, this tale was fun and refreshing and I would definitely be interested in finding out what happens to all these characters in the future.
The full blog post can be found here: https://heatherlbarksdale.com/blog/bl...
I received a copy of this story in exchange of a fair and honest review.
May 1, 2021
I had been going through a major reading slump when I started 'Through Hell & Highwater' so the beginning went very slowly. I probably read one page at a time and kept promising to pick up the speed next time.
The promise quickly became easy to keep as I learnt more about the different characters and their stories and I started to feel at home with them. They are such a believable group of unlikely friends and I absolutely loved how their friendship formed.
The story begins through the eyes of the various characters as we get to know them and their place in the school. For the most part, they're unknown to each other but as the story unfolds their paths become intertwined with the central point of their group forming being Evyline, a small Elvin girl.
I loved the different characters of the group. They seemed to have very little in common but they still managed to work so well together.
I won't talk about all of the characters, that will be your treat when you read the book, but here are a few I really liked.
Roctar - He's an orc who is very short on conversation and general friendliness. For the most part, his answer to a question is simply a grunt unless he has something serious to say, but he seems like one of those characters who, despite their indifference, once they choose you as a friend they're loyal to the end.
Dylan - He's the beta of the wolf pack and, unlike the alpha, he just loves to play and joke and take risks when he probably shouldn't. I just loved his carefreeness and he can be quite charming too.
Tylon - I wasn't too keen on Tylon in the beginning. He seemed arrogant and self-concerned. Although he was still arrogant and self-concerned at the end of the story, he also had a softness underneath it all and could or maybe even did want to truly care about his new friends.
Archer - Now, anyone who knows me knows I love vampires. But Archer stayed off my radar for the first half of the story. He is very serious, and quiet and it wasn't until the mid-range of the story that I found his quietness was more of a mysterious nature. Also, he completely made me fall for him in chapter 9. I guess he just needed to be locked in a room with a girl and forced to interact and we had a glimpse of what his quiet persona is trying to hide.
After our group was formed, we were sent on a second adventure with them (the first adventure was a school task set up by a teacher) which I feel solidified their bond although not all of them would express so. Both expeditions were written very well, adding both excitement and suspense, and the fight scenes were great. I can actually visualise the fights as they played out in the story and would love to see a live-action of it all.
I really can't express how much I enjoyed this story, the only problem I do have is that I have to wait until book two is released to get my closure on Archer. I feel that after he opened up in chapter 9 he went quiet again. I need more, and I will be first in line when book two is released to catch up with all of my new friends.
The promise quickly became easy to keep as I learnt more about the different characters and their stories and I started to feel at home with them. They are such a believable group of unlikely friends and I absolutely loved how their friendship formed.
The story begins through the eyes of the various characters as we get to know them and their place in the school. For the most part, they're unknown to each other but as the story unfolds their paths become intertwined with the central point of their group forming being Evyline, a small Elvin girl.
I loved the different characters of the group. They seemed to have very little in common but they still managed to work so well together.
I won't talk about all of the characters, that will be your treat when you read the book, but here are a few I really liked.
Roctar - He's an orc who is very short on conversation and general friendliness. For the most part, his answer to a question is simply a grunt unless he has something serious to say, but he seems like one of those characters who, despite their indifference, once they choose you as a friend they're loyal to the end.
Dylan - He's the beta of the wolf pack and, unlike the alpha, he just loves to play and joke and take risks when he probably shouldn't. I just loved his carefreeness and he can be quite charming too.
Tylon - I wasn't too keen on Tylon in the beginning. He seemed arrogant and self-concerned. Although he was still arrogant and self-concerned at the end of the story, he also had a softness underneath it all and could or maybe even did want to truly care about his new friends.
Archer - Now, anyone who knows me knows I love vampires. But Archer stayed off my radar for the first half of the story. He is very serious, and quiet and it wasn't until the mid-range of the story that I found his quietness was more of a mysterious nature. Also, he completely made me fall for him in chapter 9. I guess he just needed to be locked in a room with a girl and forced to interact and we had a glimpse of what his quiet persona is trying to hide.
After our group was formed, we were sent on a second adventure with them (the first adventure was a school task set up by a teacher) which I feel solidified their bond although not all of them would express so. Both expeditions were written very well, adding both excitement and suspense, and the fight scenes were great. I can actually visualise the fights as they played out in the story and would love to see a live-action of it all.
I really can't express how much I enjoyed this story, the only problem I do have is that I have to wait until book two is released to get my closure on Archer. I feel that after he opened up in chapter 9 he went quiet again. I need more, and I will be first in line when book two is released to catch up with all of my new friends.
April 7, 2021
An enjoyable read with likable characters.
A ragtag group of magical creatures in magic college connected by Evyline, a sweetheart yet feisty little Elf who likes to help others. Was given a free copy for honest review. My overall rating is 3.5-4/5. I liked it, but there are still things that could have been improved upon and things I didn't particularly enjoy.
Victoria Liiv had given us a magical fantasy about fitting in and finding one's place in college, through the eyes of magical people, creatures that are both familiar and strange. With a rather slow story that still packs a punch and contains strong messages, Through Hell and Highwater takes readers on an adventure with very likable characters, as they try to save the world while at the same time, navigate through the horror that is college life.
The world-build is solid, and sort of reminds me of Cassandra Clare's works, as well as the Grimm TV series at times. It also has a soft-Hogwarts feel to it, though I wouldn't say it's similar to Harry Potter, it's not. At times, the world-build also reminded me of my own, or rather the one my partner and I are expanding on, though there are many subtle and not-so-subtle differences. The point is, it's a well thought out, and well-written novel.
Given said that, there were still things I didn't like about the novel, such as the overused trope of magical people looking down on science and humans. In addition, at times, the main casts felt a bit too likable that they didn't leave too much of a mark for me, personally. There were also minor errors, such as typos, grammar, awkward phrasing, and repetition that reduced the flow and pacing of the story. But overall, it wasn't anything too bad. And everything I managed to sweep, I heard the author had already fixed at the time this review was posted.
A ragtag group of magical creatures in magic college connected by Evyline, a sweetheart yet feisty little Elf who likes to help others. Was given a free copy for honest review. My overall rating is 3.5-4/5. I liked it, but there are still things that could have been improved upon and things I didn't particularly enjoy.
Victoria Liiv had given us a magical fantasy about fitting in and finding one's place in college, through the eyes of magical people, creatures that are both familiar and strange. With a rather slow story that still packs a punch and contains strong messages, Through Hell and Highwater takes readers on an adventure with very likable characters, as they try to save the world while at the same time, navigate through the horror that is college life.
The world-build is solid, and sort of reminds me of Cassandra Clare's works, as well as the Grimm TV series at times. It also has a soft-Hogwarts feel to it, though I wouldn't say it's similar to Harry Potter, it's not. At times, the world-build also reminded me of my own, or rather the one my partner and I are expanding on, though there are many subtle and not-so-subtle differences. The point is, it's a well thought out, and well-written novel.
Given said that, there were still things I didn't like about the novel, such as the overused trope of magical people looking down on science and humans. In addition, at times, the main casts felt a bit too likable that they didn't leave too much of a mark for me, personally. There were also minor errors, such as typos, grammar, awkward phrasing, and repetition that reduced the flow and pacing of the story. But overall, it wasn't anything too bad. And everything I managed to sweep, I heard the author had already fixed at the time this review was posted.
September 4, 2021
An ensemble cast of magical creatures attends Volo Noscere University in Rome to advance their education. Vampires, fairies, elves, orcs, werewolves, even demons populate the story.
Although a few students do have adventures outside the classroom, most of the story takes place at the school. Students attend classes and get to know each other. This is a bit of a Harry Potter spin-off, but Volo Noscere isn't Hogwarts, and the characters aren't human.
As the students develop friendships and even a few romances, their differences and similarities are explored. They must eventually team up to face great dangers, where their unique skills usually complement but sometimes hinder each other.
"Through Hell and High Water" is a fast, easy read, and a fun story. But be warned, it is the first of a series and doesn't come to a solid conclusion.
The graphics in this book were great, but I found the formatting disconcerting. Paragraphs are both indented and separated by a blank line. In books, a blank line signifies a change in place, time, or point of view. Having every paragraph separated gave the writing a disjointed feel. It bothered me throughout the book.
Separating paragraphs is necessary for emails and web pages because the coding needed to transfer text between computers doesn't handle indents well, if at all. But it is unnecessary and distracting on the printed page.
If you are looking for a light read, this is a good book to try.
Reviewed by Romana Drew September 3, 2021.
Although a few students do have adventures outside the classroom, most of the story takes place at the school. Students attend classes and get to know each other. This is a bit of a Harry Potter spin-off, but Volo Noscere isn't Hogwarts, and the characters aren't human.
As the students develop friendships and even a few romances, their differences and similarities are explored. They must eventually team up to face great dangers, where their unique skills usually complement but sometimes hinder each other.
"Through Hell and High Water" is a fast, easy read, and a fun story. But be warned, it is the first of a series and doesn't come to a solid conclusion.
The graphics in this book were great, but I found the formatting disconcerting. Paragraphs are both indented and separated by a blank line. In books, a blank line signifies a change in place, time, or point of view. Having every paragraph separated gave the writing a disjointed feel. It bothered me throughout the book.
Separating paragraphs is necessary for emails and web pages because the coding needed to transfer text between computers doesn't handle indents well, if at all. But it is unnecessary and distracting on the printed page.
If you are looking for a light read, this is a good book to try.
Reviewed by Romana Drew September 3, 2021.
May 3, 2021
Firstly, I really liked all the different perspectives throughout the book! We got to see into the minds of so many different characters, which I loved. I definitely had my favorites and ones I didn’t like as much, but overall, I enjoyed most of the perspectives. There are a lot of different magical beings in this fictional world, and I think Liiv did an amazing job of bringing as many of them as possible into the central cast.
Honestly, the only character I disliked was Lisanna; I didn’t enjoy her brash, reckless personality, and I thought her story was the least interesting. But even then, I enjoyed the insights into shape-shifters she brought; so, she did have her positives.
This, I suppose, brings me to the topic of world-building. I genuinely liked Liiv’s portrayal of the different magical creatures. I think that’s something that’s difficult to manage when there are so many different books out there featuring vampires and werewolves and so forth. But Liiv kept a great balance of subverting and adhering to common tropes.
Though, I do want to mention that I think some of the long-winded descriptions could have been cut down. Although a lot of them had to do with describing the magical world, there were also some lengthy descriptions summarizing the characters’ actions. A lot of them were at the start of the book, though; so, it wasn’t a huge problem.
As for the plot in general, I definitely enjoyed it. It kept me interested and invested in the characters’ stories for the entirety of the book, so I really don’t have anything negative to say, here. Admittedly, it was a fairly basic “first book” plot, without too many complications, but I still enjoyed it. So, again, I don’t have any real complaints!
All things considered, I recommend reading this one! It kept me interested and entertained, and I didn’t have any real issues with it. And if you do choose to give this one a chance, drop a comment down below and let me know your thoughts! I always love to hear them.
Honestly, the only character I disliked was Lisanna; I didn’t enjoy her brash, reckless personality, and I thought her story was the least interesting. But even then, I enjoyed the insights into shape-shifters she brought; so, she did have her positives.
This, I suppose, brings me to the topic of world-building. I genuinely liked Liiv’s portrayal of the different magical creatures. I think that’s something that’s difficult to manage when there are so many different books out there featuring vampires and werewolves and so forth. But Liiv kept a great balance of subverting and adhering to common tropes.
Though, I do want to mention that I think some of the long-winded descriptions could have been cut down. Although a lot of them had to do with describing the magical world, there were also some lengthy descriptions summarizing the characters’ actions. A lot of them were at the start of the book, though; so, it wasn’t a huge problem.
As for the plot in general, I definitely enjoyed it. It kept me interested and invested in the characters’ stories for the entirety of the book, so I really don’t have anything negative to say, here. Admittedly, it was a fairly basic “first book” plot, without too many complications, but I still enjoyed it. So, again, I don’t have any real complaints!
All things considered, I recommend reading this one! It kept me interested and entertained, and I didn’t have any real issues with it. And if you do choose to give this one a chance, drop a comment down below and let me know your thoughts! I always love to hear them.
October 25, 2021
Okay, so first off - I love this book so far! I'm over halfway through and have been glued to the pages since I started. This book reminds me of a happy merger between Harry Potter and The Lord of the Rings - two of my favorite book series - so it's only natural that I love reading every page!
The story takes place in Rome at a university for creatures of magic - whether they be wizards, Elves, Orcs, Fae, Vampires, or whatever - chances are, they are studying here! The story is told from various character POV's, which is done super well, giving the reader an intimate look into each of the main character's unique lives, perspectives, and personality, every one of them as loveable as the others (although not always as friendly!).
The plot focuses on the growing worldwide problem of global warming, but with a magical twist and deadly acceleration. Adventure, humor, mystery, and budding romance flowing in these pages just waiting to be discovered and explored! I can't wait to finish the rest of the book! Highly recommended!
The story takes place in Rome at a university for creatures of magic - whether they be wizards, Elves, Orcs, Fae, Vampires, or whatever - chances are, they are studying here! The story is told from various character POV's, which is done super well, giving the reader an intimate look into each of the main character's unique lives, perspectives, and personality, every one of them as loveable as the others (although not always as friendly!).
The plot focuses on the growing worldwide problem of global warming, but with a magical twist and deadly acceleration. Adventure, humor, mystery, and budding romance flowing in these pages just waiting to be discovered and explored! I can't wait to finish the rest of the book! Highly recommended!
March 16, 2021
This book was a very pleasant surprise; it tells the story of a group of magical creatures who live in a world very much like ours; a world that it is going through a number of climate changes and natural disasters (also like ours), which are thought to be brought upon by dark magic. These magical creatures attend university in Rome, and they meet for the first time there. The book is narrated from the perspective of the various characters, all of which have different strengths and face unique challenges. The motley group is thrown together on a field trip in which they must confront considerable danger, which forces them to work together. As they emerge victorious, they quickly grow close and embark in further mischief and adventure. An enjoyable and entertaining read; I can't wait for book 2!
January 17, 2021
This was a fun and exciting read. It might have a magic school in it, but at no point does it try to be like Hogwarts. This is an alternate Earth where magical races like vampires, elves and orcs live side-by-side with humans, thought the humans haven’t a clue. This book follows a group of the students as they become friends and learn new things. This is all set against a backdrop of ‘natural disasters’ that some at the university believe are magical attacks. There are adventures and mysteries galore. I really liked the range of characters, all the races have their own characteristics and all of the characters are well thought out with little quirks all their own. There are still plenty of things to learn and I am looking forward to their further adventures in the sequel.
February 20, 2021
Through Hell & Highwater was a fun and action-packed story of students from different background while trying to save their world from destruction. From vampires to werewolves, there’s something for every fantasy fan!
I enjoy the setting of this book! While it is a magical realm, it is geared more towards modern day. The location of it being at a university was another enjoyable characteristic.
There were a few attributes from Harry Potter and Percy Jackson that made this story more relatable while still being its own story. Liiv made it very easy to fall deep into this world!
If you are looking for a good fantasy read from a less known author, Through Hell & Highwater is perfect for you!
I enjoy the setting of this book! While it is a magical realm, it is geared more towards modern day. The location of it being at a university was another enjoyable characteristic.
There were a few attributes from Harry Potter and Percy Jackson that made this story more relatable while still being its own story. Liiv made it very easy to fall deep into this world!
If you are looking for a good fantasy read from a less known author, Through Hell & Highwater is perfect for you!
August 8, 2021
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So I received a copy of this book a few months back so I am quite late in posting the review, but I’ve had a month long covid, exams and a massive book-burnout/hangover since then👎🏻 but it’s okay, I am fine now :’)
AMAZING BOOK WOW!!!! It really needs to be picked up by the right publisher- it can literally fly to new heights, it has the capability of becoming the next Harry Potter.
I was completely enamoured by this book and I fell in love with all the characters. I loved the way the world was created, the POVs of each character and the fae. This book had a really cool found family trope and I loved it so so much!!! Definitely worth a read, a re-read and a re-re-read!!!
So I received a copy of this book a few months back so I am quite late in posting the review, but I’ve had a month long covid, exams and a massive book-burnout/hangover since then👎🏻 but it’s okay, I am fine now :’)
AMAZING BOOK WOW!!!! It really needs to be picked up by the right publisher- it can literally fly to new heights, it has the capability of becoming the next Harry Potter.
I was completely enamoured by this book and I fell in love with all the characters. I loved the way the world was created, the POVs of each character and the fae. This book had a really cool found family trope and I loved it so so much!!! Definitely worth a read, a re-read and a re-re-read!!!
January 18, 2021
Victoria Liiv takes us on a magical action-packed adventure in Through Hell & Highwater! The students of Volo Noscere are no ordinary people, each possessing some magical or supernatural quality, but will they be enough to stop the growing magical threat facing our modern world? Liiv sets up some great characters, from werewolves to vampires, and builds a magical world laced with our own! I loved her description and the witty interaction between characters, and I was pleasantly reminded of Percy Jackson. If modern urban fantasy is your magical dish, come dig your claws into the adventure of Through Hell & Highwater!
February 15, 2021
Victoria Liiv creates a well thought through magical place. The conversations are really interesting and sets a nice view into the adolescent/young adult mind. The main objective forms a good thread to introduce all kind of fantasy characters and sets a base for themes as inclusivity and self confidence growing up. Sometimes the books feels a bit Hogwarts grown up, but Liiv puts enough of her own spin on things. My husband and I both really liked reading it and are curiously waiting for the sequel!
February 18, 2021
This book was awesome! Full of action and adventure. I love stuff like Harry Potter and Twilight! If you like fantasy stories you will love this one!
June 25, 2021
A D&D campaign come to life, Through Hell & Highwater is a fun adventurous romp filled with a little bit of everything! Vampires, dragons, orcs, elves, the end of the world. It's got it all. A school full of magic, this felt like the HP series I always wanted, with a more adult rating without it going crazy edgy. With the squeal in the works, I hope to see the budding romance between my favorite vampire character and watch the adventure unfold more.
December 24, 2021
I received a copy of this book for a fair and honest review. I enjoyed the world that the author took us to. It was to a magical academy with vampires, elves, and more. It is set in modern times and it gives a lot of magical world vibes for me. I was definitely was along for the ride and was there for the adventure the characters when one and it made me want more even when I got to the last page. I know there is another and I can't wait to get my hands in this one as well.
April 13, 2021
This is the 1st book I've read written by Victoria Liiv; I can’t wait to read more of her books.
She written a good book about vampires and werewolves.
I received a free copy of this book via booksprout and I’m voluntarily leaving a review.
She written a good book about vampires and werewolves.
I received a free copy of this book via booksprout and I’m voluntarily leaving a review.
December 22, 2020
This book was amazing. There were many good and disappointing things about the book.
The Good:
Loved the writing style and story line.
The university felt like a paranormal version of Hogwarts.
I loved the different character POVs throughout the book. It helped with suspense in the book.
The characters were well developed and I did enjoy reading about their journey.
The Disappointing:
Would have loved to have more background information on the different main characters.
Towards the end, the book became too fast paced. The end did feel rushed.
Overall:
I loved reading this book. It was interesting and a page turner. There was little boredom in this book. I would recommend this book to Harry Potter fans. Fans of fantasy, paranormal and YA will also enjoy this book.
For the full review, visit:
https://www.givernyreads.com/review/t... (Contains Spoilers)
The Good:
Loved the writing style and story line.
The university felt like a paranormal version of Hogwarts.
I loved the different character POVs throughout the book. It helped with suspense in the book.
The characters were well developed and I did enjoy reading about their journey.
The Disappointing:
Would have loved to have more background information on the different main characters.
Towards the end, the book became too fast paced. The end did feel rushed.
Overall:
I loved reading this book. It was interesting and a page turner. There was little boredom in this book. I would recommend this book to Harry Potter fans. Fans of fantasy, paranormal and YA will also enjoy this book.
For the full review, visit:
https://www.givernyreads.com/review/t... (Contains Spoilers)
February 26, 2023
Through Hell and High Water is a story that thrives on its character building, so that when the action happens, we’re clear about who can do what, although that changes as they are learning all the time.
The characters are all students at a school for magical/supernatural people, which makes for a curious mix of styles. Like Harry Potter with characters from a high fantasy D&D realm, but set in a version of our modern world. Here, we have vampires, werewolves, fae, wizards, nymphs, elves, halflings and shifters (and probably some I’ve missed) that have mostly put asides their racial differences, although there still a few personal issues that inform their interactions, especially in the early stages.
Eventually, these characters start going on missions or quests, fulfilling the trope of finding fragments of something that have been scattered, which I love.
The stylistic choice to subdivide chapters with headings to indicate a switch in perspective from one character to another struck me as a little odd in a story that’s told in the third person and is therefore being told from the narrator’s perspective. Whether it’s intended to be a way to ensure each character has something to do, I’m not sure. It certainly succeeds in that, but in my opinion, a few chapters tend to feel slightly ‘bitty’ as a result. After a while, though, I did get used to the style and as I got more into the story, it didn’t bother me anymore.
Overall, the tone is fun and light, the action sequences are clear and there are some great character interactions. This book skilfully provides a fresh take on traditional fantasy and Book 2 if definitely going on my list.
The characters are all students at a school for magical/supernatural people, which makes for a curious mix of styles. Like Harry Potter with characters from a high fantasy D&D realm, but set in a version of our modern world. Here, we have vampires, werewolves, fae, wizards, nymphs, elves, halflings and shifters (and probably some I’ve missed) that have mostly put asides their racial differences, although there still a few personal issues that inform their interactions, especially in the early stages.
Eventually, these characters start going on missions or quests, fulfilling the trope of finding fragments of something that have been scattered, which I love.
The stylistic choice to subdivide chapters with headings to indicate a switch in perspective from one character to another struck me as a little odd in a story that’s told in the third person and is therefore being told from the narrator’s perspective. Whether it’s intended to be a way to ensure each character has something to do, I’m not sure. It certainly succeeds in that, but in my opinion, a few chapters tend to feel slightly ‘bitty’ as a result. After a while, though, I did get used to the style and as I got more into the story, it didn’t bother me anymore.
Overall, the tone is fun and light, the action sequences are clear and there are some great character interactions. This book skilfully provides a fresh take on traditional fantasy and Book 2 if definitely going on my list.
December 17, 2023
There is a magical academy in Rome. While the war ended in 1995, the maximal people are staying with there own. Except for a gathering of students around three first years. Trust, curiosity, friendship and courage helps them through adventures.
Can't wait to read more
Can't wait to read more
Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews