What do you think?
Rate this book
Město zvané Řeka
Paulův návrat do rodného města je stejně málo radostný jako kdysi odjezd. Z Rijeky ho jako malého chlapce vyhnala před třiceti lety válka v bývalé Jugoslávii. Odjel s rodiči, nechal doma kamarády i prarodiče, teď ho však zpátky domů přivedla smutná zpráva: zemřela mu babička, jeho poslední pouto s domovem. Dospělý Paul, který po těch letech stěží ovládá svůj mateřský jazyk, přijíždí do města jménem řeka, do Rijeky, aby vyřídil babiččinu pozůstalost. Na místě ale zjistí, že po babičce zdědil něco mnohem podivnějšího než jen zanedbaný byt v centru přetékající spoustou zdánlivě zbytečných krámů. Milá a nenápadná stará paní, kterou měl tak rád, byla totiž krsnik, v chorvatské mytologii jedinec obdařený dědičnými magickými schopnostmi. Úkolem krsnika je odnepaměti střežit hranici mezi světem lidí a světem na druhé straně, obývaným vedle přátelských mrtvých také zákeřnými tvory, pro něž lidské bytosti představují lovnou zvěř, z níž čerpají energii. Takový odkaz Paul nečekal a už vůbec by ho nenapadlo, že se ho nelze zříct. Nechtěný úděl mu padne na bedra a s ním i nebezpečí, že mu převrátí vzhůru nohama všechno, co doposud věděl o životě, o městě, kde kdysi žil, i o sobě samém. Hranice mezi světy se s nástupem nového krsnika ztenčuje a Paul se nevyhnutelně dostává do střetu s nečistými magickými silami. Stane před úkolem prokázat, že je babiččina dědictví hoden, ochránit lidstvo a nepřijít přitom o rozum. Naštěstí brzy najde vítané čarodějné spojence a není na to sám.
352 pages, Paperback
Published June 1, 2024
4 people are currently reading
122 people want to read
About the author
Igor Rendić
85 books40 followersI'm a freelance translator and speculative fiction writer. My fiction in Croatian has so far won seven awards, which I'm really proud of, and I've published several stories in English and (so far) two novels - A Town Called River and Seasons of the River, urban fantasy adventures set in Croatia.
Literary translations are my main jam, but I've also had experience with everything from work with tourist and PR agencies to banks and museums. I've written copy for a similarly wide range of clients.
When I'm not translating, writing or reading (seriously, I read *a lot*) you can find me taking long walks while listening to podcasts and audio dramas - or if there's a sci-fi con nearby, I'm either at a quiz or hanging out with my geeky friends.
Literary translations are my main jam, but I've also had experience with everything from work with tourist and PR agencies to banks and museums. I've written copy for a similarly wide range of clients.
When I'm not translating, writing or reading (seriously, I read *a lot*) you can find me taking long walks while listening to podcasts and audio dramas - or if there's a sci-fi con nearby, I'm either at a quiz or hanging out with my geeky friends.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews
January 1, 2022
First off, I'd like to thank Shtriga Books for providing me with a copy for review purposes. When I heard what the book was about, I was immediately sold!
Now I might be biased, being Slavic myself, but I'd like to point out that I'm not from Croatia, nor have I ever had the pleasure of visiting the country itself. Thus, although the folklore side, language and culture was somewhat familiar, I imagine it'd be moreso had I been a Croatian reader. However, Paul, the protagonist, finds himself back in his birth country after not living there for a long, long time. He finds himself readjusting to the country, which allowed us - the reader - to familiarise ourselves with things too. It also hit close to home for me personally, as I hadn't been back to my home country in years. I can't help but imagine that I easily could have found myself in Paul's shoes one day.
The writing I found very modern and straightforward. This made it an easy and fast read. It had a fair amount of Croatian sentences and terminology included too, most of which was translated. Paul's Croatian is rusty, which works as a great reason as to why most of the dialogue is in English. Which in turn makes me think this is a novel that anyone could enjoy, as long as you know English I suppose!
Plot-wise, there wasn't anything huge going on. It was more about exploration and learning. There's a lot of focus on loss, grieving and what happens to those we heave behind; expressed both metaphorically and literally. There's fighting and action, which in my opinion got better towards the end of the book.
At first, I described this books as a lovechild of Witcher and Dresden. But thinking about it now, it might just have the vibes of a Slavic Dresden? Similar depth and density to it moreso than Witcher. Having said that, I've definitely not read anything like this before - those are comparisons purely based off of vibes. I can definitely see this being apart of a longer series, where each book sees Paul grow further into his powers, his new life and new-found calling.
Now I might be biased, being Slavic myself, but I'd like to point out that I'm not from Croatia, nor have I ever had the pleasure of visiting the country itself. Thus, although the folklore side, language and culture was somewhat familiar, I imagine it'd be moreso had I been a Croatian reader. However, Paul, the protagonist, finds himself back in his birth country after not living there for a long, long time. He finds himself readjusting to the country, which allowed us - the reader - to familiarise ourselves with things too. It also hit close to home for me personally, as I hadn't been back to my home country in years. I can't help but imagine that I easily could have found myself in Paul's shoes one day.
The writing I found very modern and straightforward. This made it an easy and fast read. It had a fair amount of Croatian sentences and terminology included too, most of which was translated. Paul's Croatian is rusty, which works as a great reason as to why most of the dialogue is in English. Which in turn makes me think this is a novel that anyone could enjoy, as long as you know English I suppose!
Plot-wise, there wasn't anything huge going on. It was more about exploration and learning. There's a lot of focus on loss, grieving and what happens to those we heave behind; expressed both metaphorically and literally. There's fighting and action, which in my opinion got better towards the end of the book.
At first, I described this books as a lovechild of Witcher and Dresden. But thinking about it now, it might just have the vibes of a Slavic Dresden? Similar depth and density to it moreso than Witcher. Having said that, I've definitely not read anything like this before - those are comparisons purely based off of vibes. I can definitely see this being apart of a longer series, where each book sees Paul grow further into his powers, his new life and new-found calling.
October 19, 2023
"Rijeka literally means ‘river’ in everyday Croatian. Growing up, it never seemed strange to me - only after we moved, and I was surrounded by other languages on a daily basis, did I realize it was like naming a town Forest or Hill without using an old-timey word to do it.”
4.5
These are the opening lines of the first instalment of the Slavic mythology urban fantasy saga (that's a lot of words!), written in English, so all of you can savor it! The Town Called River is a story about Paul, an expatriate who comes back to his hometown Rijeka (River) in Croatia, which also happens to be the town where I live!
Paul gradually discovers he’s a 'krsnik' - think witcher + werewolf, but born with it, not made magical by potions. He had no idea he was anything out of the ordinary until his grandma’s death triggered the transfer of those powers to him. Not only did he inherit those powers, but also her home with a few surprises in it, including his childhood friend Katrina who knows about the situation and is a friendly guide for him. The thing is, he wants no part of this. Plus, when it comes to using his powers efficiently, he’s no Geralt, to say the least.
What made this novel so interesting and entertaining is not only does it take place in my town, but also it draws from Slavic mythology and local mythology which have been so underappreciated. Also, as I said, Paul is no Geralt, he doesn’t know what to do and he just deals with all this like a faulty and confused human being, making it up as he goes, which brings about so much humor, but also so many threatening situations. It makes it believable and relatable.
Plus, the people and beings he meets are so colorful (Bowie is a gem and the late grandma Lena such a badass) and the adversary sometimes soooo frightening and eerie (finishing this in the middle of the night also wasn’t a great idea, but here we are).
The language and style could sometimes use more polishing (hence half a point less), but I’m so happy this novel exists and I’m excited to read more. Well done, Shtriga books!
P.S. We need some kind of an adaptation of this, movie, series, manga, what ever, we'll take it!
Can't wait to read book 2!
4.5
These are the opening lines of the first instalment of the Slavic mythology urban fantasy saga (that's a lot of words!), written in English, so all of you can savor it! The Town Called River is a story about Paul, an expatriate who comes back to his hometown Rijeka (River) in Croatia, which also happens to be the town where I live!
Paul gradually discovers he’s a 'krsnik' - think witcher + werewolf, but born with it, not made magical by potions. He had no idea he was anything out of the ordinary until his grandma’s death triggered the transfer of those powers to him. Not only did he inherit those powers, but also her home with a few surprises in it, including his childhood friend Katrina who knows about the situation and is a friendly guide for him. The thing is, he wants no part of this. Plus, when it comes to using his powers efficiently, he’s no Geralt, to say the least.
What made this novel so interesting and entertaining is not only does it take place in my town, but also it draws from Slavic mythology and local mythology which have been so underappreciated. Also, as I said, Paul is no Geralt, he doesn’t know what to do and he just deals with all this like a faulty and confused human being, making it up as he goes, which brings about so much humor, but also so many threatening situations. It makes it believable and relatable.
Plus, the people and beings he meets are so colorful (Bowie is a gem and the late grandma Lena such a badass) and the adversary sometimes soooo frightening and eerie (finishing this in the middle of the night also wasn’t a great idea, but here we are).
The language and style could sometimes use more polishing (hence half a point less), but I’m so happy this novel exists and I’m excited to read more. Well done, Shtriga books!
P.S. We need some kind of an adaptation of this, movie, series, manga, what ever, we'll take it!
Can't wait to read book 2!
February 17, 2022
https://knjigozderonja.wixsite.com/kn...
Moram priznati kako mi je u početku bilo teško čitati knjigu na engleskom jeziku dok se u njoj spominju hrvatska imena, terminologija, pa čak i rečenice, iako su one uvijek bile prevedene ili objašnjene na engleskom jeziku. Kako sam počela razmišljati o tome, shvatila sam da mi to uopće ne treba biti čudno – često čitam knjige na hrvatskom koja imaju neuobičajena imena drugih kultura na koja se odmah naviknem. Također, često se u knjigama nađu rečenice na jeziku kojeg ne razumijem, ali to romanu ne uzmem za zlo. Trebaju nam knjige na engleskom jeziku koje promiču hrvatske pisce i maštu jer je to jedan od odličnih načina da strani čitatelji upoznaju našu kulturu.
Radnja romana relativno je spora kada se uzme u obzir da knjiga ima tristotinjak stranica – autor nas polako uvodi u cijelu priču uzimajući si dovoljno vremena da čitatelju približi ugođaj i atmosferu koji Paul proživljava. Na naslovnici piše kako je to prvi nastavak, pa je razumljivo zašto je Igor Rendić usporio i dopustio nam da zajedno s glavnim likom učimo o moćima krsnika i bremenu koje one nose.
Paul kao glavni lik je odličan, no ja sam cijelo vrijeme čekala na Lenu. Koliko god me je Paul uvukao u radnju, moje čitalačko uzbuđenje samo se povećavalo na spomen Lenina imena. Možda u budućnosti dobijemo neki prequel (koja bi bila hrvatska riječ za to?) o Leninom iskustvu krsnika. Zamislite si vedru bakicu koja vas preko dana nutka s ručkom, a preko noći razbija njuške morama i čudovištima paralelnog svemira. Prava urbana fantastika. I to u Rijeci! I to na engleskom! Čista genijalnost!
Promocija knjige u Gradskoj knjižnici Rijeka bila je jako zanimljiva jer su zajedno s autorom o knjizi pričale urednica i ilustratorica knjige. Urednica nas je ukratko provela kroz proces od prvog nacrta knjige do njenog tiskanja i izdanja, dok je ilustratorica govorila u procesu nastanka naslovnice, idejama i zamislima koje nastaju. Također, otkrila nam je kako je tiskarama najproblematičnija upravo ljubičasta boja, pa iz tog razloga postoje različiti primjerci knjige – neke su naslovnice svijetlo ljubičaste, a neke su zaista tamne. Također, autor nam je otkrio zašto je Paul (Pavle) „povratnik“ – htio je glavnog lika koji će aktivno razmišljati o Rijeci, čuditi se određenim građevinama, ulicama, fontanama, novim stvarima koje je zatekao. Da je Paul (Pavle) cijeli život proveo u Rijeci, vjerojatno ne bi imao potrebe razmišljati o fontani i grotama na Jadranskom trgu.
Dobili smo odgovor i zašto radnja teče relativno sporo (osim što je to tek prva knjiga u nizu). Naime, Igor Rendić htio je prikazati unutarnju borbu glavnog lika. Da, baka mu je bila krsnik, i da, on bi ju trebao naslijediti, ali on to nužno ne mora. Izbor je bio isključivo na njemu, nije ništa dugovao svijetu. Sukladno tome, njegove avanture nisu uključivale odmah spašavanje svijeta, nego avanture s kojima se krsnik koji uči o svojim moćima može suočiti. Ne preostaje nam ništa drugo nego čekati novi nastavak!
Jeste li nekad čitali knjige hrvatskih autora na engleskom jeziku?
Grickajmo knjige zajedno!
Moram priznati kako mi je u početku bilo teško čitati knjigu na engleskom jeziku dok se u njoj spominju hrvatska imena, terminologija, pa čak i rečenice, iako su one uvijek bile prevedene ili objašnjene na engleskom jeziku. Kako sam počela razmišljati o tome, shvatila sam da mi to uopće ne treba biti čudno – često čitam knjige na hrvatskom koja imaju neuobičajena imena drugih kultura na koja se odmah naviknem. Također, često se u knjigama nađu rečenice na jeziku kojeg ne razumijem, ali to romanu ne uzmem za zlo. Trebaju nam knjige na engleskom jeziku koje promiču hrvatske pisce i maštu jer je to jedan od odličnih načina da strani čitatelji upoznaju našu kulturu.
Radnja romana relativno je spora kada se uzme u obzir da knjiga ima tristotinjak stranica – autor nas polako uvodi u cijelu priču uzimajući si dovoljno vremena da čitatelju približi ugođaj i atmosferu koji Paul proživljava. Na naslovnici piše kako je to prvi nastavak, pa je razumljivo zašto je Igor Rendić usporio i dopustio nam da zajedno s glavnim likom učimo o moćima krsnika i bremenu koje one nose.
Paul kao glavni lik je odličan, no ja sam cijelo vrijeme čekala na Lenu. Koliko god me je Paul uvukao u radnju, moje čitalačko uzbuđenje samo se povećavalo na spomen Lenina imena. Možda u budućnosti dobijemo neki prequel (koja bi bila hrvatska riječ za to?) o Leninom iskustvu krsnika. Zamislite si vedru bakicu koja vas preko dana nutka s ručkom, a preko noći razbija njuške morama i čudovištima paralelnog svemira. Prava urbana fantastika. I to u Rijeci! I to na engleskom! Čista genijalnost!
Promocija knjige u Gradskoj knjižnici Rijeka bila je jako zanimljiva jer su zajedno s autorom o knjizi pričale urednica i ilustratorica knjige. Urednica nas je ukratko provela kroz proces od prvog nacrta knjige do njenog tiskanja i izdanja, dok je ilustratorica govorila u procesu nastanka naslovnice, idejama i zamislima koje nastaju. Također, otkrila nam je kako je tiskarama najproblematičnija upravo ljubičasta boja, pa iz tog razloga postoje različiti primjerci knjige – neke su naslovnice svijetlo ljubičaste, a neke su zaista tamne. Također, autor nam je otkrio zašto je Paul (Pavle) „povratnik“ – htio je glavnog lika koji će aktivno razmišljati o Rijeci, čuditi se određenim građevinama, ulicama, fontanama, novim stvarima koje je zatekao. Da je Paul (Pavle) cijeli život proveo u Rijeci, vjerojatno ne bi imao potrebe razmišljati o fontani i grotama na Jadranskom trgu.
Dobili smo odgovor i zašto radnja teče relativno sporo (osim što je to tek prva knjiga u nizu). Naime, Igor Rendić htio je prikazati unutarnju borbu glavnog lika. Da, baka mu je bila krsnik, i da, on bi ju trebao naslijediti, ali on to nužno ne mora. Izbor je bio isključivo na njemu, nije ništa dugovao svijetu. Sukladno tome, njegove avanture nisu uključivale odmah spašavanje svijeta, nego avanture s kojima se krsnik koji uči o svojim moćima može suočiti. Ne preostaje nam ništa drugo nego čekati novi nastavak!
Jeste li nekad čitali knjige hrvatskih autora na engleskom jeziku?
Grickajmo knjige zajedno!
February 10, 2022
Thank you to Shtriga publishing for providing me with a free copy in exchange for an honest and unbiased review.
I enjoyed this novel. Istrian legends brought to life in the setting of urban Rijeka (a town in Croatia) were refreshing among the usual topics and places I read about. The book made me laugh within the first two paragraphs and that's always a good thing.
The author is not a native English speaker and sometimes it shows. The language is very good in general, but from time to time an odd sentence structure or an awkward expression will catch your attention and break the spell.
I would have liked to see the style even more clean. For most part it's fine, nice and light, occasionally great, but it still has some telling and unnecessary repetitions, especially towards the end and during fight descriptions.
However, none of the above is anything that should stop you from picking this novel up. It is interesting and different, funny and inventive.
I loved how the author hasn't shied from using Croatian language (but still made it understandable) and how he kept the original terms like krsnik and shtrigun.
All in all, I really hope there will be a sequel. I'd definitely read it.
I enjoyed this novel. Istrian legends brought to life in the setting of urban Rijeka (a town in Croatia) were refreshing among the usual topics and places I read about. The book made me laugh within the first two paragraphs and that's always a good thing.
The author is not a native English speaker and sometimes it shows. The language is very good in general, but from time to time an odd sentence structure or an awkward expression will catch your attention and break the spell.
I would have liked to see the style even more clean. For most part it's fine, nice and light, occasionally great, but it still has some telling and unnecessary repetitions, especially towards the end and during fight descriptions.
However, none of the above is anything that should stop you from picking this novel up. It is interesting and different, funny and inventive.
I loved how the author hasn't shied from using Croatian language (but still made it understandable) and how he kept the original terms like krsnik and shtrigun.
All in all, I really hope there will be a sequel. I'd definitely read it.
December 31, 2021
“A Town Called River” by Igor Rendić is an urban fantasy novel with action set in Croatia and based on less popular Slavic mythology. It’s sort of The Witcher meeting friendly neighbourhood Spiderman in our modern world.
Paul is returning to Croatia after so many years that he hardly even speaks his native tongue. He wanted to wrap up everything quickly – listen to the testament of his late grandmother and deal with whatever she left behind – and then move on with his life. Unfortunately for him, Lena had particular plans for her favourite grandson. When Paul finally arrives at the small town of Rijeka and his grandma’s old apartment, he quickly discovers his recent headaches might be connected to the super-secret room full of files with strange names.
It turns out that his beloved grandma had led the double life and worked as krsnik – a sort of magical guardian who keeps all the supernatural users and monsters in check. And now, after her death, all her superpowers and responsibilities were just dumped on him. It also doesn’t help that Lena didn’t exactly leave him any instructions on what to do with all that new-gain powers.
The book gives us a glimpse into Croatian culture and traditions. We learn why most Croatians left the small towns and moved away, what is the go-to snack and what alcohol every Croatian is keeping handy in their cupboard. And to top all that, we are introduced to the whole bunch of supernatural beings who walk unseen among us humans.
I like how the author showed Pauls internal conflict while dealing with an unexpected situation he was dragged in. Even though at first, he was vehemently opposing everything, when he had to face the actual danger and had a choice to make, he always chose to help others, even if he had no idea what to do.
I also liked how Lena, his grandmother, was portrayed. We often get those mentor figures idolised in books, making them hard to compete with and far too perfect. But here we learn about a person who was great at her job but was also terrible at dealing with regular life tasks, like organising her papers or preparing instructions for her descendants. She kept postponing the most crucial things until they were left unfinished. She was also holding her secrets from her friends and family, which makes Pauls’ taking over krsnik business nearly impossible.
The set of side characters was well crafted, and the growing bond between them was pleasant to read. Their conversations were often funny and a bit absurd, considering all the supernatural things they kept discussing as if it was the most natural thing in the world.
“A Town Called River” is book one in the series, and it feels a bit like a prologue to a greater story. I enjoyed reading it, but I’m already itching to learn more. Since Paul is finally getting a firmer grip on his powers and has established his group of allies, I’d like to see him facing bigger challenges, the ones that he can’t so easily punch his way out of or get rescued by his amazing witchy friends.
If you enjoy urban fantasy and like the taste of Slavic mythology, you should check out this book for sure!
Paul is returning to Croatia after so many years that he hardly even speaks his native tongue. He wanted to wrap up everything quickly – listen to the testament of his late grandmother and deal with whatever she left behind – and then move on with his life. Unfortunately for him, Lena had particular plans for her favourite grandson. When Paul finally arrives at the small town of Rijeka and his grandma’s old apartment, he quickly discovers his recent headaches might be connected to the super-secret room full of files with strange names.
It turns out that his beloved grandma had led the double life and worked as krsnik – a sort of magical guardian who keeps all the supernatural users and monsters in check. And now, after her death, all her superpowers and responsibilities were just dumped on him. It also doesn’t help that Lena didn’t exactly leave him any instructions on what to do with all that new-gain powers.
The book gives us a glimpse into Croatian culture and traditions. We learn why most Croatians left the small towns and moved away, what is the go-to snack and what alcohol every Croatian is keeping handy in their cupboard. And to top all that, we are introduced to the whole bunch of supernatural beings who walk unseen among us humans.
I like how the author showed Pauls internal conflict while dealing with an unexpected situation he was dragged in. Even though at first, he was vehemently opposing everything, when he had to face the actual danger and had a choice to make, he always chose to help others, even if he had no idea what to do.
I also liked how Lena, his grandmother, was portrayed. We often get those mentor figures idolised in books, making them hard to compete with and far too perfect. But here we learn about a person who was great at her job but was also terrible at dealing with regular life tasks, like organising her papers or preparing instructions for her descendants. She kept postponing the most crucial things until they were left unfinished. She was also holding her secrets from her friends and family, which makes Pauls’ taking over krsnik business nearly impossible.
The set of side characters was well crafted, and the growing bond between them was pleasant to read. Their conversations were often funny and a bit absurd, considering all the supernatural things they kept discussing as if it was the most natural thing in the world.
“A Town Called River” is book one in the series, and it feels a bit like a prologue to a greater story. I enjoyed reading it, but I’m already itching to learn more. Since Paul is finally getting a firmer grip on his powers and has established his group of allies, I’d like to see him facing bigger challenges, the ones that he can’t so easily punch his way out of or get rescued by his amazing witchy friends.
If you enjoy urban fantasy and like the taste of Slavic mythology, you should check out this book for sure!
December 23, 2021
I received an e-ARC of this book from the publisher for an honest review. So here it is.
3.5 rounded to 4
This is a solid start to an urban fantasy series. The main character Paul is different than a typical MC in an urban fantasy in a way that he doesn't know anything about the supernatural world he is thrust into. So it was interesting to read from that perspective, to see how he deals with his powers and the situations he is forced into.
The beginning was slow but then last third sold me on the whole series and I will happily read on.
3.5 rounded to 4
This is a solid start to an urban fantasy series. The main character Paul is different than a typical MC in an urban fantasy in a way that he doesn't know anything about the supernatural world he is thrust into. So it was interesting to read from that perspective, to see how he deals with his powers and the situations he is forced into.
The beginning was slow but then last third sold me on the whole series and I will happily read on.
November 12, 2021
Paul is a guy who returns to his birth city of Rijeka (a name that literally translates to "river") to take care of his grandmother's affairs after her death. Paul inherits an apartment, some money and also special magical powers that he can use to fight monsters.
This book was a such a great journey from the very beginning. It was mysterious, adventurous and funny. The chapters end in such a way that you need to "read just one more!". The characters are well established and likeable (Bowie ♥). The city of Rijeka is described so vividly and for once in my life I really enjoyed reading about the places I know and recognize easily. The elements of Slavic mythology were refreshing to read about.
This book is a beautiful hommage to the author's grandmother and a true love letter to the city of Rijeka.
I'd recommend this book to people who like Dresden Files (without all the unnecessary sleaziness), to Witcher fans (for your Slavic mythology fix) and anyone who loves a good urban fantasy.
This book was a such a great journey from the very beginning. It was mysterious, adventurous and funny. The chapters end in such a way that you need to "read just one more!". The characters are well established and likeable (Bowie ♥). The city of Rijeka is described so vividly and for once in my life I really enjoyed reading about the places I know and recognize easily. The elements of Slavic mythology were refreshing to read about.
This book is a beautiful hommage to the author's grandmother and a true love letter to the city of Rijeka.
I'd recommend this book to people who like Dresden Files (without all the unnecessary sleaziness), to Witcher fans (for your Slavic mythology fix) and anyone who loves a good urban fantasy.
November 16, 2021
I was one of the lucky early readers and I could not put this down! The book was thoroughly entertaining and engaging! It's a definitive page turner, always pushing you to read just one more page, one more chapter, to find out what happens next.
The characters are all very enjoyable and you will fall in love with some of them (Viki, hello <3). There is humor sprinkled throughout the book that will seriously make you laugh out loud in places and there is one particular scene where you might even gasp quite a few times in a row.
I also loved diving into the Slavic mythology part, specially about Paul being a Krsnik, and the things you learn while reading will make you want to search out for more. Looking forward to the sequel, definitely on my reading list!
The characters are all very enjoyable and you will fall in love with some of them (Viki, hello <3). There is humor sprinkled throughout the book that will seriously make you laugh out loud in places and there is one particular scene where you might even gasp quite a few times in a row.
I also loved diving into the Slavic mythology part, specially about Paul being a Krsnik, and the things you learn while reading will make you want to search out for more. Looking forward to the sequel, definitely on my reading list!
September 7, 2024
Let me start by writing that I am one of those people who prefers native speakers writing in their native tongues, since I think this produces the best kind of literature. I think foreign languages should be left to translators. In this case the author is a professional translator, so he's allowed to do both.
Here are some of my impressions:
I love the Croatian folklore myths being utilized (of the region where the book takes place). This is something that I would love to read more about in Croatian novels (which is why I find it a shame there's no Croatian edition). I like a well written hard-magic system, and this story develops one, again partly based on folklore (the other is standard esoteric mumbo jumbo, but this works as it's also become a part of Croatian urban culture for a long while) .
There are some scenes and motives in the novel that are quite touching (and had surprised me), and this gives a lovely contrast with the light and casual writing style. Emotionally charged moments don't require big words to be effective. I'll have to look for more Croatian works from the author.
The story has a shonen manga vibe; the protagonist is surrounded by attractive women and there's really no other strong male character. I liked Rijeka being used as a setting, and different parts of it giving a different atmosphere. The protagonist is rediscovering both his home city it and his forgotten childhood culture, and I find this works very well for the story. There's a bunch of other fun things, but no need to list them all here - go and read the book :)
Overall, I had fun reading the book, and I will also look for the sequel. The English in the book is done very well, but I do think it's a shame there's no Croatian edition, as I have the impression I'd like the author's style even more in that version.
Here are some of my impressions:
I love the Croatian folklore myths being utilized (of the region where the book takes place). This is something that I would love to read more about in Croatian novels (which is why I find it a shame there's no Croatian edition). I like a well written hard-magic system, and this story develops one, again partly based on folklore (the other is standard esoteric mumbo jumbo, but this works as it's also become a part of Croatian urban culture for a long while) .
There are some scenes and motives in the novel that are quite touching (and had surprised me), and this gives a lovely contrast with the light and casual writing style. Emotionally charged moments don't require big words to be effective. I'll have to look for more Croatian works from the author.
The story has a shonen manga vibe; the protagonist is surrounded by attractive women and there's really no other strong male character. I liked Rijeka being used as a setting, and different parts of it giving a different atmosphere. The protagonist is rediscovering both his home city it and his forgotten childhood culture, and I find this works very well for the story. There's a bunch of other fun things, but no need to list them all here - go and read the book :)
Overall, I had fun reading the book, and I will also look for the sequel. The English in the book is done very well, but I do think it's a shame there's no Croatian edition, as I have the impression I'd like the author's style even more in that version.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 17, 2022
A lot of (sometimes grisly) fun!
I loved how much different folk lore was crammed in here. I really liked how all the magic and supernatural elements exist in the world. The witches were particularly great.
I was initially quite put off by some of the violent tendencies of the main character - one particular moment when his internal reactions to Katrina rising her concerns for his welfare left me a bit uncomfortable. Buttt I will choose to read it that this was the more…animalistic…influences that were coming out in him.
Also - as the grandchild of a now long deceased Croatian grandparents, all the feeling of guilt around connection to people and place really resonated with me.
All in all a perfect pre-reading for my trip to Rijeka!
Five glitter drops out of five
I loved how much different folk lore was crammed in here. I really liked how all the magic and supernatural elements exist in the world. The witches were particularly great.
I was initially quite put off by some of the violent tendencies of the main character - one particular moment when his internal reactions to Katrina rising her concerns for his welfare left me a bit uncomfortable. Buttt I will choose to read it that this was the more…animalistic…influences that were coming out in him.
Also - as the grandchild of a now long deceased Croatian grandparents, all the feeling of guilt around connection to people and place really resonated with me.
All in all a perfect pre-reading for my trip to Rijeka!
Five glitter drops out of five
August 5, 2025
3.5*
Ľahká letná oddychovka, skôr slice-of-life a urban fantasy tak pol na pol. Myslím, že keby boli postavy a príbeh lepšie prepracované a hlavná postava nebola na štýl YA mám-superschopnosti-ale-furt-som-dámička-v-nesnázích, tak by to kľudne mohla byť aj výborná séria... Bohužiaľ, nebolo to tak, ale napriek tomu sa mi knižka páčila a plus body za to, že slovanský autor dáva slovanskú mytológiu do fantasy príbehu.
Čítala som v českom preklade.
Ľahká letná oddychovka, skôr slice-of-life a urban fantasy tak pol na pol. Myslím, že keby boli postavy a príbeh lepšie prepracované a hlavná postava nebola na štýl YA mám-superschopnosti-ale-furt-som-dámička-v-nesnázích, tak by to kľudne mohla byť aj výborná séria... Bohužiaľ, nebolo to tak, ale napriek tomu sa mi knižka páčila a plus body za to, že slovanský autor dáva slovanskú mytológiu do fantasy príbehu.
Čítala som v českom preklade.
January 9, 2023
I really enjoyed reading a book set in Croatia that’s not about Croatia, per se (I’m biased though!). I was entertained and curious throughout, but note I’d really like to see our Krsnik get trained. And maybe travel around the country. Maybe that’s the next book?!
July 17, 2022
Very nice book. Reminded me a lot of the Rivers of London series. It is so weird to read a book placed in a locale you know. Looking forward to the continuation of the series.
August 1, 2022
Loved this book. It's set in modern-day Croatia and includes various elements of (South) Slavic mythology.
December 25, 2022
Absolutely amazing!
April 23, 2023
Jedna od onih knjiga koje ću svima preporučiti za čitanje! Nadam se nastavcima!
March 9, 2024
Very entertaining, looking forward to the next book and seeing how the writer's style develops!
February 1, 2026
Slavic fantasy from Croatia - an interesting take on this mythological cosmos in a contemporary timeline.
December 2, 2023
Reread in 2023: a strong 4, I don't know where l got the chemistry with every female character in the first reading and the translated Croatian didn't bother me at all. There was a moment where I had to stop myself from crying from pain and hurt (warning: death of a parent), well done to the author for creating such a powerful scene.
I still noticed some linguistic issues, but that's just me being overly picky and strict because lingustic reviews is what I do for a living. I don't think it would matter to anyone else.
First reading in 2021:
I received an e-ARC of this book from the publisher for an honest review. So here it is.
3.5 rounded to 4
The book is slower-paced in the beginning, but picks up around the middle and from then on it has action, crime, fights, powers and everything typical of an urban fantasy book. However, the slower beginning is justified by the fact that, unlike in other UF books, we get to follow our main character Paul as he discovers and comes to terms with his powers, trying to decide whether to return to his old life or accept his new life as a krsnik. As such, it is a great starting read for someone who is just getting into urban fantasy.
There are some very fun and humorous and very relatable scenes, such as getting drunk when you're too overwhelmed by life. On the other hand, there are also very scary and haunting monsters, deadly injuries and gore. Although it does not have a main villain, the story sets up the world nicely (various types of powers, numerous supernatural beings) and intrigues you to see what is to come after this.
Another wonderful aspect was the fact that the story teaches you about Slavic mythology and shows you the town of Rijeka (if you know the town, you are transported to different places and really feel like you're a participant in the scene). I don't know anything about Slavic mythology and I was inspired to look into it more after reading the book.
Finally, being a linguist, I was often transported out of the book (especially at the beginning) because of the translations of Croatian words and sentences into English, but I think it would be very neat for non-Croatian readers as they would learn more about our food, drinks and mythology. One other pet peeve of mine was the fact that Paul seemed to have chemistry with basically every female character that appeared, but it was a minor flaw.
I am definitely looking forward to the sequel.
Video review: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ziinB...
I still noticed some linguistic issues, but that's just me being overly picky and strict because lingustic reviews is what I do for a living. I don't think it would matter to anyone else.
First reading in 2021:
I received an e-ARC of this book from the publisher for an honest review. So here it is.
3.5 rounded to 4
The book is slower-paced in the beginning, but picks up around the middle and from then on it has action, crime, fights, powers and everything typical of an urban fantasy book. However, the slower beginning is justified by the fact that, unlike in other UF books, we get to follow our main character Paul as he discovers and comes to terms with his powers, trying to decide whether to return to his old life or accept his new life as a krsnik. As such, it is a great starting read for someone who is just getting into urban fantasy.
There are some very fun and humorous and very relatable scenes, such as getting drunk when you're too overwhelmed by life. On the other hand, there are also very scary and haunting monsters, deadly injuries and gore. Although it does not have a main villain, the story sets up the world nicely (various types of powers, numerous supernatural beings) and intrigues you to see what is to come after this.
Another wonderful aspect was the fact that the story teaches you about Slavic mythology and shows you the town of Rijeka (if you know the town, you are transported to different places and really feel like you're a participant in the scene). I don't know anything about Slavic mythology and I was inspired to look into it more after reading the book.
Finally, being a linguist, I was often transported out of the book (especially at the beginning) because of the translations of Croatian words and sentences into English, but I think it would be very neat for non-Croatian readers as they would learn more about our food, drinks and mythology. One other pet peeve of mine was the fact that Paul seemed to have chemistry with basically every female character that appeared, but it was a minor flaw.
I am definitely looking forward to the sequel.
Video review: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ziinB...
October 25, 2024
Igor Rendić využívá slovanskou mytologii a hlavního hrdinu svého příběhu pasoval rovnou do role ochránce. Krsnik je něco mezi čarodějem a lovcem monster. Vzpomínáte na Zaklínače? Paul je však na rozdíl od Geralta ve své roli nováčkem.
(...)
Město zvané Řeka je na poli chorvatské fantastiky velmi důležitým kouskem. Stejně jako fantastika česká, bojuje s velkou zahraniční konkurencí - zejména tou západní. V doslovu sepsaném Nevenou Obajdinovou se píše o velkém významu, který pro chorvatskou fantasy Město zvané Řeka má.
(...)
Autorův styl je velmi čtivý, ale plynulost textu může všímavějším čtenářům narušit množství překlepů, chybějících písmen a občas nějaká ta kostrbatější věta nebo souvětí, které při závěrečných korekturách nejspíš utekly pozornosti. Ti, kteří nějaké ty chybky v textu přehlédnou, budou jistě nadšeni z toho, jak se jim stránky otáčejí pod rukama.
(...)
Celá recenze:
https://deti-noci.cz/2024/07/literatu...
(...)
Město zvané Řeka je na poli chorvatské fantastiky velmi důležitým kouskem. Stejně jako fantastika česká, bojuje s velkou zahraniční konkurencí - zejména tou západní. V doslovu sepsaném Nevenou Obajdinovou se píše o velkém významu, který pro chorvatskou fantasy Město zvané Řeka má.
(...)
Autorův styl je velmi čtivý, ale plynulost textu může všímavějším čtenářům narušit množství překlepů, chybějících písmen a občas nějaká ta kostrbatější věta nebo souvětí, které při závěrečných korekturách nejspíš utekly pozornosti. Ti, kteří nějaké ty chybky v textu přehlédnou, budou jistě nadšeni z toho, jak se jim stránky otáčejí pod rukama.
(...)
Celá recenze:
https://deti-noci.cz/2024/07/literatu...
Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews