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Love X Magic #2
Between Salt & Serenades
A stubborn siren, a stranded selkie, and a deal to save the sea...
Sidra Solei is a cynical, deep-sea siren whose heart hardened after the final battle between her pod and the humans. When her sister arrives in the one place Sidra finds solace to inform her their pod’s hunger has become too great, Sidra is determined to act.
Dead set on saving her starving pod, Sidra sets off beyond their territory for the first time since childhood. In the vast, open sea, she crosses paths with a pesky seal intent on stealing her catch. But when they're both caught in the same fisherman's net, Sidra discovers the seal is actually a selkie named Breena—mortal enemy of the sirens.
Hungry and weary from their journeys, Sidra and Breena reluctantly join forces to avoid detection and stowaway on the fishing boat, headed for land.
Just as Breena and Sidra think they are in the clear, Breena's pelt is stolen. Unable to return to the sea without it, the two enemies strike a deal: Sidra will stay on land until Breena finds her pelt, and the two sea fae will fight against the mysterious force depleting their home of its fish.
During their time on land, Breena begins to thaw Sidra’s icy heart, reminding her of who she was before the war, but will it be enough to overcome the violent history between sirens and selkies? Or will they return to their homes and forget the love blossoming between them?
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Get ready for this summery sapphic story coming August 22nd, 2024!!
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Your Guide to the Love X Magic Collection
Between Mischief & Magic
A drunken demon, a princess who lost her magic, and a deal to save them both...
Vibes: Cozy Cottagecore, Grumpy X Sunshine, & Slow-Burn
Coziness: 4/5
Spice: 1.5/5
Between Salt & Serenades
A stubborn siren, a stranded selkie, and a deal to save the sea...
Vibes: Seaside Adventures, Natural Enemies to Lovers, & Forced Proximity
Coziness: 2/5
Spice: 2/5
Sidra Solei is a cynical, deep-sea siren whose heart hardened after the final battle between her pod and the humans. When her sister arrives in the one place Sidra finds solace to inform her their pod’s hunger has become too great, Sidra is determined to act.
Dead set on saving her starving pod, Sidra sets off beyond their territory for the first time since childhood. In the vast, open sea, she crosses paths with a pesky seal intent on stealing her catch. But when they're both caught in the same fisherman's net, Sidra discovers the seal is actually a selkie named Breena—mortal enemy of the sirens.
Hungry and weary from their journeys, Sidra and Breena reluctantly join forces to avoid detection and stowaway on the fishing boat, headed for land.
Just as Breena and Sidra think they are in the clear, Breena's pelt is stolen. Unable to return to the sea without it, the two enemies strike a deal: Sidra will stay on land until Breena finds her pelt, and the two sea fae will fight against the mysterious force depleting their home of its fish.
During their time on land, Breena begins to thaw Sidra’s icy heart, reminding her of who she was before the war, but will it be enough to overcome the violent history between sirens and selkies? Or will they return to their homes and forget the love blossoming between them?
--------------------------------------------------------
Get ready for this summery sapphic story coming August 22nd, 2024!!
-------------------------------------------------------
Your Guide to the Love X Magic Collection
Between Mischief & Magic
A drunken demon, a princess who lost her magic, and a deal to save them both...
Vibes: Cozy Cottagecore, Grumpy X Sunshine, & Slow-Burn
Coziness: 4/5
Spice: 1.5/5
Between Salt & Serenades
A stubborn siren, a stranded selkie, and a deal to save the sea...
Vibes: Seaside Adventures, Natural Enemies to Lovers, & Forced Proximity
Coziness: 2/5
Spice: 2/5
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Marissa Serrao
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 77 reviews
September 10, 2024
✰ ✰ ✰ ✰
thank you for sending me the arc for this read!
════ ⋆★⋆ ════
｡･ﾟﾟ･ sapphic selkie/siren/sea fae romance is my shit!!! apparently;
･ﾟﾟ･｡ they were so unbelievably cute here, i dont even mind a smidgen of insta-love/lust, they mean everything to me;
｡･ﾟﾟ･ the plot was fine, i was just following them because i loved their personalities and how their relationships with the sea and turning was;
･ﾟﾟ･｡ the little fight scene was a little underwhelming but the ending was very cute!
thank you for sending me the arc for this read!
════ ⋆★⋆ ════
｡･ﾟﾟ･ sapphic selkie/siren/sea fae romance is my shit!!! apparently;
･ﾟﾟ･｡ they were so unbelievably cute here, i dont even mind a smidgen of insta-love/lust, they mean everything to me;
｡･ﾟﾟ･ the plot was fine, i was just following them because i loved their personalities and how their relationships with the sea and turning was;
･ﾟﾟ･｡ the little fight scene was a little underwhelming but the ending was very cute!
October 31, 2024
this was cute but too instalove for me 🫠
August 15, 2024
This advanced reader copy was given to me in exchange for an honest review, thank you!
This book was beyond cute. I really enjoyed reading about Sidra and Breena! The themes reflect enemies to lovers and found family. It’s a beautifully written sapphic romance with just enough drama and adventure to keep me going to the end. Who doesn’t love an extremely mushy HEA??
🌶️- 1/5 which is fine! It’s good to break away from the all sex and no plot that is so popular right now.
⭐️- 4.5/5 I’m really excited to read more from this series and author
This book was beyond cute. I really enjoyed reading about Sidra and Breena! The themes reflect enemies to lovers and found family. It’s a beautifully written sapphic romance with just enough drama and adventure to keep me going to the end. Who doesn’t love an extremely mushy HEA??
🌶️- 1/5 which is fine! It’s good to break away from the all sex and no plot that is so popular right now.
⭐️- 4.5/5 I’m really excited to read more from this series and author
January 28, 2025
I really enjoyed the character development both characters, and especially Sidra, went through and their dynamic.
August 17, 2024
3.75 ⭐
This advanced reader copy was given to me in exchange for an honest review, thank you Author Marissa Serrao!
The story guides the reader on a journey through the sea and land where our main characters Sidra and Breena are suffering. Their lives are the products of a war raged amongst their elders. Their families/pods are starving and in an unfortunate turn of events the two are forced to see past their differences and work together.
Their story also touches on found family and grief of a previous lost loved one. I think I would have enjoyed more surrounding these plots rather than their spice. As a spice reader, I felt that the spice did not add to the plot.
The development of their relationship does feel rushed at times. But, it does address the physical and sometimes sexual attraction that comes with the unknown. Sidra explains that before Breena she seldom engaged with others. Her feelings for Breena encapsulate the first queer awakening that many of us may experience. Instead of facing the adversities of it being a queer relationship Sidra and Breena must face the fact that they are of enemy species.
I would love to see more from Sidra and Breena. Thank you!
Marissa Serrao
This advanced reader copy was given to me in exchange for an honest review, thank you Author Marissa Serrao!
The story guides the reader on a journey through the sea and land where our main characters Sidra and Breena are suffering. Their lives are the products of a war raged amongst their elders. Their families/pods are starving and in an unfortunate turn of events the two are forced to see past their differences and work together.
Their story also touches on found family and grief of a previous lost loved one. I think I would have enjoyed more surrounding these plots rather than their spice. As a spice reader, I felt that the spice did not add to the plot.
The development of their relationship does feel rushed at times. But, it does address the physical and sometimes sexual attraction that comes with the unknown. Sidra explains that before Breena she seldom engaged with others. Her feelings for Breena encapsulate the first queer awakening that many of us may experience. Instead of facing the adversities of it being a queer relationship Sidra and Breena must face the fact that they are of enemy species.
I would love to see more from Sidra and Breena. Thank you!
Marissa Serrao
August 18, 2024
Thank you so much to Marissa Serrao for an ARC of Between Salt & Serenades! All opinions are my own!
This book was so cozy and fun! Admittedly, this is my first book by Marissa, but after this I am definitely looking forward to reading her backlist. While not heavy on spice, this is a sweet and still slightly steamy sapphic fantasy romance with enjoyable and unique world- and character-building that builds on existing mythos! Sidra and Breena’s love story was precious, and had me wishing I could rush back to my Kindle to read more during a busy weekend!
So looking forward to more from Marissa!
*Possible spoilers ahead*
POV: primarily single first person, several chapters from another POV
You can expect: siren FMC, selkie FMC, mythology, natural enemies to lovers, forced proximity, family, star-crossed.
Rep: queer MCs, grief
Spice: 1.5/5
CW: violence, death of a parent
This book was so cozy and fun! Admittedly, this is my first book by Marissa, but after this I am definitely looking forward to reading her backlist. While not heavy on spice, this is a sweet and still slightly steamy sapphic fantasy romance with enjoyable and unique world- and character-building that builds on existing mythos! Sidra and Breena’s love story was precious, and had me wishing I could rush back to my Kindle to read more during a busy weekend!
So looking forward to more from Marissa!
*Possible spoilers ahead*
POV: primarily single first person, several chapters from another POV
You can expect: siren FMC, selkie FMC, mythology, natural enemies to lovers, forced proximity, family, star-crossed.
Rep: queer MCs, grief
Spice: 1.5/5
CW: violence, death of a parent
August 20, 2024
ARC REVIEW!
I was so happy to recieve my Advanced Reader Copy of this book. I'm passionate about lesbian literature and fantasy, and this book checked all my boxes. I loved reading about Sidra and Breena, and learning all about their fantasy home. The book has excellent pacing with just enough exposition, and I was particularly pleased to see all of the sea vernacular included in the description and the dialogue.
This book is about overcoming your own expectations, and love turning you into the truest version of yourself. Sweet fluff and a little spice. 10/10 highly recommend!
I was so happy to recieve my Advanced Reader Copy of this book. I'm passionate about lesbian literature and fantasy, and this book checked all my boxes. I loved reading about Sidra and Breena, and learning all about their fantasy home. The book has excellent pacing with just enough exposition, and I was particularly pleased to see all of the sea vernacular included in the description and the dialogue.
This book is about overcoming your own expectations, and love turning you into the truest version of yourself. Sweet fluff and a little spice. 10/10 highly recommend!
August 18, 2024
Between Salt and Serenades by Marissa Serrao swept me off my feet right from the beginning. This book is the perfect cozy blend of romance, adventure, and rich lore, pulling you into a beautifully crafted world where sirens and selkies, once enemies, must navigate their shared history and growing feelings for each other.
Sidra and Breena's journey is nothing short of enchanting. I found myself completely captivated by their chemistry—Sidra's fierce protectiveness and Breena's warmth created a dynamic that was both tender and exhilarating. What I loved most was how naturally their relationship unfolded. Despite being from enemy species, their connection felt genuine and deeply emotional, making me root for them with every turn of the page.
Marissa Serrao has an incredible talent for world-building. The lore of the sirens and humans, intertwined with the history of their conflict, added a compelling depth to the story. I was equally charmed by the cozy atmosphere of the little town where Sidra and Breena find themselves. It perfectly contrasted the tension of their mission, offering moments of quiet reflection amidst the adventure.
Though I’m usually wary of instalove, Serrao executed it so well that it felt completely natural in this context. The characters’ immediate attraction was believable and heartwarming, making their evolving relationship all the more satisfying to watch. The tension between their past and present feelings added richness to the story that kept me hooked.
Between Salt and Serenades is not just a love story; it’s a tale of healing, growth, and finding family in the most unexpected places. Marissa Serrao has woven a narrative that is both cozy and thrilling, with just the right amount of spice to keep things interesting. This book is an absolute gem, and I wholeheartedly recommend it to anyone looking for a Sapphic romantic fantasy with cozy vibes.
Sidra and Breena's journey is nothing short of enchanting. I found myself completely captivated by their chemistry—Sidra's fierce protectiveness and Breena's warmth created a dynamic that was both tender and exhilarating. What I loved most was how naturally their relationship unfolded. Despite being from enemy species, their connection felt genuine and deeply emotional, making me root for them with every turn of the page.
Marissa Serrao has an incredible talent for world-building. The lore of the sirens and humans, intertwined with the history of their conflict, added a compelling depth to the story. I was equally charmed by the cozy atmosphere of the little town where Sidra and Breena find themselves. It perfectly contrasted the tension of their mission, offering moments of quiet reflection amidst the adventure.
Though I’m usually wary of instalove, Serrao executed it so well that it felt completely natural in this context. The characters’ immediate attraction was believable and heartwarming, making their evolving relationship all the more satisfying to watch. The tension between their past and present feelings added richness to the story that kept me hooked.
Between Salt and Serenades is not just a love story; it’s a tale of healing, growth, and finding family in the most unexpected places. Marissa Serrao has woven a narrative that is both cozy and thrilling, with just the right amount of spice to keep things interesting. This book is an absolute gem, and I wholeheartedly recommend it to anyone looking for a Sapphic romantic fantasy with cozy vibes.
August 23, 2024
This book was given to me as an ARC by the author Marissa Serrao.
I thoroughly enjoyed this sapphic romance, following Sidra and Breena on their journey. I absolutely loved the growth ALL of the characters went through as you read the story. I loved the writing style as I read this book rather quickly.
Now I will say there is little to no spice in this book which is not at all a bad thing, I enjoyed it very much without it.
Amazing job on this book!!
This may be an unpopular opinion or even a thought that hasn’t crossed anyone’s mind, but I would ABSOLUTELY LOVE to see this book turned into a TV series, to see the characters come to life.
I thoroughly enjoyed this sapphic romance, following Sidra and Breena on their journey. I absolutely loved the growth ALL of the characters went through as you read the story. I loved the writing style as I read this book rather quickly.
Now I will say there is little to no spice in this book which is not at all a bad thing, I enjoyed it very much without it.
Amazing job on this book!!
This may be an unpopular opinion or even a thought that hasn’t crossed anyone’s mind, but I would ABSOLUTELY LOVE to see this book turned into a TV series, to see the characters come to life.
August 29, 2024
Got this as an ARC from Marissa Serrao so thank you so much!!
This book is very cutesy but it took me forever to get into the plot, the romance also felt a little rushed (which happens some times when you’ve only got 300 pages I get it) but to be totally honest imo it was just okay. There were many fun and super sweet moments that I enjoyed a ton! I do love the characters, but got lost in the plot.
Buttt just maybe not my kind of book?? I really wanted to get into it and be obsessed, at the end of the day it was just cute to me and that’s kind of it.
This book is very cutesy but it took me forever to get into the plot, the romance also felt a little rushed (which happens some times when you’ve only got 300 pages I get it) but to be totally honest imo it was just okay. There were many fun and super sweet moments that I enjoyed a ton! I do love the characters, but got lost in the plot.
Buttt just maybe not my kind of book?? I really wanted to get into it and be obsessed, at the end of the day it was just cute to me and that’s kind of it.
October 16, 2024
This was decent. I liked the world building but felt the romance was a little rushed.
November 21, 2024
I had the honour to receive an e-arc for this sapphic fantasy and it was a hit !
It was original, swoony and I had a smile all along!
It was original, swoony and I had a smile all along!
June 28, 2025
In my opinion, this book was perfect and heartwarming. I loved every moment of it!
November 13, 2025
it's that time of the month where I get so picky so dnf no hate tho
November 30, 2025
Story feels rushed. If you have an afternoon to fill go for it. Author is talented though.
August 12, 2024
2.75⭐️ I enjoyed the world and the characters but it just didn’t have enough depth to grip me. I wish the romance was slower it felt rushed. Overall I was left feeling underwhelmed.
August 13, 2024
✨ARC Review✨
Between Salt & Serenades by Marissa Serrao
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/🌶️
I’ve read Marissa’s previous book Between Mischief And Magic, a cottage core sapphic Romantasy which I loved. So I was pretty excited to get an arc of this book. The two main characters are Sidra, who is a Siren, and Breena, who is a Selkie. They both find themselves caught in a fishing net while they were out hunting for food. Fish have become scarce and so they were out past where they normally hunt. I loved all the cozy aspects of this book, while there still being lots of adventure along the way.
Between Salt & Serenades by Marissa Serrao
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/🌶️
I’ve read Marissa’s previous book Between Mischief And Magic, a cottage core sapphic Romantasy which I loved. So I was pretty excited to get an arc of this book. The two main characters are Sidra, who is a Siren, and Breena, who is a Selkie. They both find themselves caught in a fishing net while they were out hunting for food. Fish have become scarce and so they were out past where they normally hunt. I loved all the cozy aspects of this book, while there still being lots of adventure along the way.
August 14, 2024
4,75⭐
I loved the immediate attraction and chemistry between Sidra and Breena, their romance developments were so natural and sweet, also Sidra's murderous side, protectivness and a bit of possesivness for Breena were so romantic for me and the spice was also lovely. The lore and overall world building was really exciting and felt well thought even if the conflicts found quite simple solutions, which in this still holds some coziness to the storyline.
I loved the immediate attraction and chemistry between Sidra and Breena, their romance developments were so natural and sweet, also Sidra's murderous side, protectivness and a bit of possesivness for Breena were so romantic for me and the spice was also lovely. The lore and overall world building was really exciting and felt well thought even if the conflicts found quite simple solutions, which in this still holds some coziness to the storyline.
August 16, 2024
Sidra and Breena will have you swooning during this medium stakes, cozy sapphic romantasy.
I love the vibes of the Love x Magic series by Marissa Serrao! They are so sweet while dealing with heavier topics like loss, trust, and learning to love again - and of course the adventure part - saving the sea!
Low spice, perfect tension and steam and a nice gentle fantasy with not a ton of world building and political kingdoms to memorize!
I love the vibes of the Love x Magic series by Marissa Serrao! They are so sweet while dealing with heavier topics like loss, trust, and learning to love again - and of course the adventure part - saving the sea!
Low spice, perfect tension and steam and a nice gentle fantasy with not a ton of world building and political kingdoms to memorize!
January 28, 2026
Per usual, Marissa does an amazing job of infusing sapphic yearning into the forced proximity of a magic quest, I adored Sidra and Breena and loved their story
September 3, 2024
3.5/5
having read the first love x magic novel and loved it, i was very excited for this new one. i would say this one was still just as cute, the characters and romance the highlight of the book overall, but the overarching plot didn’t compel me as much and felt like it dragged at times. it was a struggle to get through it, especially the last 25%. also, the romance - while sweet and something i did enjoy - felt like it was a bit rushed. we went from “enemies” to sid basically being obsessed with breena in no time at all. which i get, as breena was probably my fav character and i was just as obsessed with her.
i did get an arc from the author (thank you so much!!) in exchange for an honest review, even if it took me past release to finish the book. i can’t wait to see the next edition in this series!!
having read the first love x magic novel and loved it, i was very excited for this new one. i would say this one was still just as cute, the characters and romance the highlight of the book overall, but the overarching plot didn’t compel me as much and felt like it dragged at times. it was a struggle to get through it, especially the last 25%. also, the romance - while sweet and something i did enjoy - felt like it was a bit rushed. we went from “enemies” to sid basically being obsessed with breena in no time at all. which i get, as breena was probably my fav character and i was just as obsessed with her.
i did get an arc from the author (thank you so much!!) in exchange for an honest review, even if it took me past release to finish the book. i can’t wait to see the next edition in this series!!
April 1, 2025
Marissa Serrao’s Love x Magic series is quickly becoming my ultimate comfort read. Every time I dive into one of her books, it feels like escaping to a magical vacation—warm, enchanting, and utterly delightful. The way she crafts her worlds is just dreamy—full of lush, vivid descriptions that make me feel like I’m right there, breathing in the salt air or wandering through mystical forests. And the love stories? Ugh, they’re so sweet and swoon-worthy, but with just the right amount of tension to keep me hooked.
What I absolutely adore about this series is how inclusive it is. Marissa seamlessly weaves together all kinds of beings, identities, and sexualities without ever making it feel forced or tokenized. It’s just there, natural and beautiful, like the world should be. Just people and beings living, loving, and being their authentic selves. It’s so refreshing and honestly makes my heart happy.
Now, let’s talk about Breena and Sid—these two had me grinning like an idiot the entire time! Their love story is the perfect mix of tender and thrilling, unfolding in the most unlikely place (which, no spoilers, but yes please). Their chemistry was undeniable, and their banter? Hilarious and heartwarming. I loved watching them navigate their feelings while also dealing with the chaos around them.
And the adventure! It was so much fun—exciting and engaging without ever tipping into anxiety-inducing territory. Sometimes fantasies can get too intense, but this was the perfect balance. Plus, the unexpected friendships they formed along the way added such a great layer to the story.
Oh, and their powers? SO COOL. The way Marissa describes their magic is so fun and vivid—I could practically see it in action. And the way Breena and Sid learned to harness their abilities (and, ahem, use them in certain situations 😏) was just chef’s kiss. It added such a fun, dynamic element to their relationship.
Overall, Between Salt & Serenade was everything I wanted and more. It gave me the warm fuzzies, made me laugh, and left me completely obsessed with this world. If you’re looking for a magical, feel-good romance with depth, humor, and a whole lot of heart, this is it.
What I absolutely adore about this series is how inclusive it is. Marissa seamlessly weaves together all kinds of beings, identities, and sexualities without ever making it feel forced or tokenized. It’s just there, natural and beautiful, like the world should be. Just people and beings living, loving, and being their authentic selves. It’s so refreshing and honestly makes my heart happy.
Now, let’s talk about Breena and Sid—these two had me grinning like an idiot the entire time! Their love story is the perfect mix of tender and thrilling, unfolding in the most unlikely place (which, no spoilers, but yes please). Their chemistry was undeniable, and their banter? Hilarious and heartwarming. I loved watching them navigate their feelings while also dealing with the chaos around them.
And the adventure! It was so much fun—exciting and engaging without ever tipping into anxiety-inducing territory. Sometimes fantasies can get too intense, but this was the perfect balance. Plus, the unexpected friendships they formed along the way added such a great layer to the story.
Oh, and their powers? SO COOL. The way Marissa describes their magic is so fun and vivid—I could practically see it in action. And the way Breena and Sid learned to harness their abilities (and, ahem, use them in certain situations 😏) was just chef’s kiss. It added such a fun, dynamic element to their relationship.
Overall, Between Salt & Serenade was everything I wanted and more. It gave me the warm fuzzies, made me laugh, and left me completely obsessed with this world. If you’re looking for a magical, feel-good romance with depth, humor, and a whole lot of heart, this is it.
September 15, 2024
This story follows Sidra (Sid for short) and Breena. Their two separate pods ( groups ) being siren and a selkie. Their groups are each starving and believe it's all due to the humans still holding the grudge with the sirens from the war they had.
Sid sets off to find food further than usual from the area of her pods hunting ground looking for more food for her people. While hunting she is caught in a fisherman's net and brought out of the sea and forced into her human form. She realizes she is not alone on a strange ship, but she was caught with the Selkie Breena. The hide and sneak off the ship and get on land.
The lose the selkies skin and go on a hunt to find it again. While looking for the skin they figure out several different realizations. One big one that changes things for everyone. They find lost family and new friends and love.
Marissa Serrao brought in several different creatures into this world to life and everything didn't end up the way I thought it would. A nice suprise and great writing. I felt really drawn into this world she wrote for us. (Does help that I go by Brina, close to one of the characters name in the books). This is a great fantasy sapphic love story.
This was suppose to be and ARC review but I got behind on things and just now able to finish the book.
Sid sets off to find food further than usual from the area of her pods hunting ground looking for more food for her people. While hunting she is caught in a fisherman's net and brought out of the sea and forced into her human form. She realizes she is not alone on a strange ship, but she was caught with the Selkie Breena. The hide and sneak off the ship and get on land.
The lose the selkies skin and go on a hunt to find it again. While looking for the skin they figure out several different realizations. One big one that changes things for everyone. They find lost family and new friends and love.
Marissa Serrao brought in several different creatures into this world to life and everything didn't end up the way I thought it would. A nice suprise and great writing. I felt really drawn into this world she wrote for us. (Does help that I go by Brina, close to one of the characters name in the books). This is a great fantasy sapphic love story.
This was suppose to be and ARC review but I got behind on things and just now able to finish the book.
September 14, 2024
Between Salt & Serenades is a cute and cozy sapphic romance featuring a siren and a selkie as they go on an unexpected adventure to save the sea!
I absolutely loved ARC reading for Marissa's first book in the Your Guide to Love X Magic Collection, Between Mischief & Magic, and immediately applied to read this book before it even had a title. Enemies to lovers? Forced proximity? Sea creatures?...You can count me in! I expected a cozy book with a HEA and that's exactly what I got!
There's a perfect mix of adventure and low-stakes fantasy. The entire story is told through the eyes of Sidra and Breena in alternating POVs. They each come from vastly different communities, so it was exciting to learn about the world through their perspectives. Sidra and Breena fit each other perfectly and through this adventure, gain a sense of found family, courage, and freedom.
Not only are Sidra and Breena saving the sea, but also unpacking a longtime war between selkie, siren, and humankind. We get to learn a lot about Sidra and her family. She's not your average siren! While there are multiple points of adventure, the storyline is well thought out, placed, and delivered.
Thank you so much Marissa for allowing me an ARC!
I absolutely loved ARC reading for Marissa's first book in the Your Guide to Love X Magic Collection, Between Mischief & Magic, and immediately applied to read this book before it even had a title. Enemies to lovers? Forced proximity? Sea creatures?...You can count me in! I expected a cozy book with a HEA and that's exactly what I got!
There's a perfect mix of adventure and low-stakes fantasy. The entire story is told through the eyes of Sidra and Breena in alternating POVs. They each come from vastly different communities, so it was exciting to learn about the world through their perspectives. Sidra and Breena fit each other perfectly and through this adventure, gain a sense of found family, courage, and freedom.
Not only are Sidra and Breena saving the sea, but also unpacking a longtime war between selkie, siren, and humankind. We get to learn a lot about Sidra and her family. She's not your average siren! While there are multiple points of adventure, the storyline is well thought out, placed, and delivered.
Thank you so much Marissa for allowing me an ARC!
January 30, 2025
I wanted this to be good, but it fell flat in so many areas. Tropes include grumpy/sunshine, forced proximity, 1/5 spice - the spice is suggested but includes little to no details. I'd rate the spice that is depicted as appropriate for upper high school aged and up. The perspective is all from main character Sidra, the siren, except for a random chapter around ch. 18 when we get a brief perspective from Breena, the selkie. This book would have been much better if it had been entirely dual-perspective. The tone kept shifting, and there were a handful of grammatical errors. This is my problem with self-published books: they're in desperate need of a professional editor, not just the author's mother as acknowledged. There were several opportunities for a twist that the author set up and let fall flat, and so many other missed opportunities such as *spoiler alert* Rory the captain falling for Zellia, Sidra's little sister; and Sidra's grandfather falling for Rory's mother. Very little character development and a rushed romance that felt forced to confine within the number of pages. Not a bad story - just not a great story. I really wanted to like this, as I love sapphic merfolk tales. I still recommend it, but I'm just glad I read it for free.
August 22, 2024
Thank you Marissa Serrao for letting me ARC read this amazing book🫶🏻♥️📚
What a beautifully thought out, cozy novel! I adored the character growth individually and as Sidra and Breena grew closer. The world building and adventure had me turning the page eagerly. Their connection, their healing, and their love for each other was the perfect blend for a sapphic romance! I was captivated throughout, and highly recommend this read!!
Tropes:
- touch her and 💀 vibes
- found family
- one bed
- forced proximity
- natural enemies to lovers
I was honestly so lucky to ARC read this. I found Marissa Serrao a while back when she had posted about her first sapphic romantasy novel Between Mischief and Magic. I bought the book as soon as it released, and it’s so surreal to now be part of her street team and to be an ARC reader for her!
She is the kindest human with the most creative mind🫶🏻
I love the way she writes about connection and healing via adventure and cozy vibes! The worlds she builds in her books are 10/10. And who doesn’t love queer rep?🏳️🌈✨
If you are on the fence about getting this book, this is your sign to DO IT🌊💜✨🐚
What a beautifully thought out, cozy novel! I adored the character growth individually and as Sidra and Breena grew closer. The world building and adventure had me turning the page eagerly. Their connection, their healing, and their love for each other was the perfect blend for a sapphic romance! I was captivated throughout, and highly recommend this read!!
Tropes:
- touch her and 💀 vibes
- found family
- one bed
- forced proximity
- natural enemies to lovers
I was honestly so lucky to ARC read this. I found Marissa Serrao a while back when she had posted about her first sapphic romantasy novel Between Mischief and Magic. I bought the book as soon as it released, and it’s so surreal to now be part of her street team and to be an ARC reader for her!
She is the kindest human with the most creative mind🫶🏻
I love the way she writes about connection and healing via adventure and cozy vibes! The worlds she builds in her books are 10/10. And who doesn’t love queer rep?🏳️🌈✨
If you are on the fence about getting this book, this is your sign to DO IT🌊💜✨🐚
September 19, 2024
*Thank you to the author and publisher for sending me an ARC!*
Let me just say, I loved this story so much. The characters were instantly lovable from the beginning for me and I liked the backstories for both Breena and Sidra.
Sidra is a siren who is dedicated to hunting for her pod, who are starving because of the lack of fish. Breena is a selkie with the same issue as Sidra & her pod: no food. When Sidra and Breena accidentally got caught by a fishing net, they have to work together to get off the boat without being caught. However, before they can return to the sea, Breena’s pelt was taken in the chest she hid it away in. With Sidra’s help, the two must get Breena’s pelt back while knowing practically nothing about the ways of the humans.
I loved that the issues expanded from simply getting Breena’s pelt back to trying to save the sirens & humans from the siren-human hybrids. They both built friendships with some humans including the captain of the ship and Sidra’s long-lost grandfather who she reunited with.
I gave this 4/5⭐️ because I wasn’t a huge fan of the spice in the book and found myself skimming those parts.
Let me just say, I loved this story so much. The characters were instantly lovable from the beginning for me and I liked the backstories for both Breena and Sidra.
Sidra is a siren who is dedicated to hunting for her pod, who are starving because of the lack of fish. Breena is a selkie with the same issue as Sidra & her pod: no food. When Sidra and Breena accidentally got caught by a fishing net, they have to work together to get off the boat without being caught. However, before they can return to the sea, Breena’s pelt was taken in the chest she hid it away in. With Sidra’s help, the two must get Breena’s pelt back while knowing practically nothing about the ways of the humans.
I loved that the issues expanded from simply getting Breena’s pelt back to trying to save the sirens & humans from the siren-human hybrids. They both built friendships with some humans including the captain of the ship and Sidra’s long-lost grandfather who she reunited with.
I gave this 4/5⭐️ because I wasn’t a huge fan of the spice in the book and found myself skimming those parts.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 24, 2024
I absolutely loved the book! I think that Between Salt and Serenades is such a cute, magical book and I am so glad that I got the chance to read it(I got to read the ARC copy). I loved the little details that were put in the book, such as saying that they have "rambunctious minnows" in their stomach instead of butterflies or "Depths" when something happens or they are in awe. I find these little details to be so cute and clever. They definitely help pull everything together and set the scene.
This is an enemies to lovers type Sapphic romance novel. Unlike most Sapphic romance books I've read, I feel that in this one the story/plot and the romance are very well balanced. It had a very good story line that keeps you wanting to read more while also noticing the characters falling for eachother in their moments of tension and unwanted feelings of admiration.
Between Salt and Serenades is so very well written and is a great escape into the world of fantasy. I will definitely be reading more of the author's books
This is an enemies to lovers type Sapphic romance novel. Unlike most Sapphic romance books I've read, I feel that in this one the story/plot and the romance are very well balanced. It had a very good story line that keeps you wanting to read more while also noticing the characters falling for eachother in their moments of tension and unwanted feelings of admiration.
Between Salt and Serenades is so very well written and is a great escape into the world of fantasy. I will definitely be reading more of the author's books
September 4, 2024
I read the first book in the Love x Magic series and loved it. I was very excited to read this second installment!
First, I absolutely loved that I was able to learn about “new to me” fae. I am familiar with sirens, but not familiar with all that they could do. I was interested to learn about the selkies. This was a fae that was not known to me before opening this book. I am very interested in learning more about them as well!
Between Salt and Serenades is a sweet and cozy fantasy story. There are a few heavier topics (war, death of a parent) but overall it is cozy! You follow Sidra and Breena go against their natural hatred of each other to team up and save the ocean.
I loved these two main characters, as well as all of the side characters throughout the story. I think that Marissa Serrao has a great way of describing the characters in these stories. They are relatable and they make me want to be their friend!
Thank you to the author for the opportunity to read an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
First, I absolutely loved that I was able to learn about “new to me” fae. I am familiar with sirens, but not familiar with all that they could do. I was interested to learn about the selkies. This was a fae that was not known to me before opening this book. I am very interested in learning more about them as well!
Between Salt and Serenades is a sweet and cozy fantasy story. There are a few heavier topics (war, death of a parent) but overall it is cozy! You follow Sidra and Breena go against their natural hatred of each other to team up and save the ocean.
I loved these two main characters, as well as all of the side characters throughout the story. I think that Marissa Serrao has a great way of describing the characters in these stories. They are relatable and they make me want to be their friend!
Thank you to the author for the opportunity to read an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
August 25, 2024
This book is a cute, cozy romance with a side of adventure. With the sea fae feeling the effects of a war they had thought ended ages ago, Sidra and Breena had left their respective territories in a desperate attempt to find food to feed their families. In an attempt to catch a fish, the two find themselves caught in a fisherman's net together. They reluctantly join forces to evade detection from the humans aboard the ship. After the selkie's pelt gets stolen, the two team up again to find the pelt and figure out a way to bring the sea creatures back into the sea so no sea fae has to starve again.
The found family in this book is quite heartwarming. These two find the most loving friends and family along their journey together. This book just gave nothing but good vibes and was overall an amazing read!
Thank you to the author for the ARC, I'm very grateful I got to get my hands on an early copy of this!
The found family in this book is quite heartwarming. These two find the most loving friends and family along their journey together. This book just gave nothing but good vibes and was overall an amazing read!
Thank you to the author for the ARC, I'm very grateful I got to get my hands on an early copy of this!
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